[WINDHAM SOUTHEAST, BRATTLEBORO, FEBRUARY 12, 2026] — The Windham Southeast Supervisory Union has developed a comprehensive interim plan to ensure continuity of learning for Oak Grove School students while repairs to the school’s heating system are completed.
Oak Grove School was closed on February 9th and 10th as crews worked to identify and repair a heating unit and conduct required safety testing. While progress is being made, the timeline for completion is likely another week.
To minimize disruption to students’ education, Oak Grove School students and staff are temporarily attending Academy School and Green Street School. The interim placements were thoughtfully designed with students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs as the primary consideration.
“In times of need, communities come together to support one another,” said Mark Speno, Superintendent of Schools. “It has been inspiring to see the collaboration, flexibility, and care demonstrated in developing and implementing a plan of this scale in such a short period of time.”
The coordinated effort required to execute this transition in less than one day was remarkable. Within hours of determining that extended repairs would be necessary, the administrative team convened to map out student placements, coordinate staffing, arrange transportation routes, plan nutrition services, and ensure classroom space and resources would be ready. On the afternoon of February 10th, Oak Grove School staff met at the Career Center Conference Room before joining colleagues at Academy School and Green Street School to collaborate and plan for a smooth transition. Staff members worked late into the evening making personal phone calls to families, to share information directly, answer questions, and provide reassurance during an uncertain time.
Perhaps most impressive was the professionalism demonstrated by staff across all three schools. The plan was finalized and communicated late Tuesday afternoon, giving teachers and support staff only hours to prepare. Yet when students arrived Wednesday morning, the transition was seamless. Classrooms were ready, students were welcomed, and learning resumed without interruption. Administrator Brin Tucker remarked that “This level of dedication and student-centered focus exemplifies the caliber of educators serving our community.”
The District’s transportation provider and nutrition services team responded with equal dedication, revising routes and meal planning to ensure seamless support for students beginning February 11th.
Superintendent Speno extends sincere thanks to the principals and staff of Brattleboro Town Schools for what they were able to accomplish to support all of our children in a timely fashion. Mary Kaufmann, Oak Grove School Principal shares that “This district has had my heart for a long time. The extraordinary collaboration and dedication our team demonstrated in support of Oak Grove students is precisely why I’m proud to serve this community.”
“In addition,” Speno adds, “we are deeply grateful to our families for their understanding, flexibility, and trust as we navigate this unexpected challenge together. Their willingness to pivot alongside us reflects the strength of our school community.”
Families with questions are encouraged to contact Oak Grove Principal, Mary Kaufmann, if needed, at mkaufmann@wsesdvt.org or 802-254-3740.
