09/14/2026
The Mayor's Commission to Redesign and Reimagine the Somersworth School District is inviting residents to help shape the future of Somersworth's public schools through a three-part community engagement series. The kickoff event, "The Future of Somersworth Schools: Permission to Think Outside the Box," takes place Wednesday, September 16th from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at Idlehurst Elementary School, with no RSVP required, and childcare and light refreshments provided. The series continues with a hands-on brainstorming session on September 23rd, featuring small-group discussions on facilities, community partnerships, K-8 redesign, and a reimagining of our high school. The series then wraps up on October 7th.
Chaired by Superintendent John Shea and formed at Mayor Matt Gerding's initiative, the Commission is tackling questions that go beyond incremental fixes — considering how Somersworth might need to fundamentally rethink its schools in the face of statewide pressures like open enrollment, school vouchers, and tax caps. Organizers describe the sessions as judgment-free spaces where every idea is welcome, with proposals expected to come forward in time for the 2027 budget season.