Families

Whenever possible, school closings will be announced the evening before an anticipated storm, however that is not always possible.  Emergency automated telephone calls will be placed between 5:30 and 6:00 AM to notify families of an unanticipated school cancellation or delayed opening.  In the event that the Internet or telephone lines are down and calls are not successfully transmitted, the information may also be found on this website and/or on local television/radio stations.

• WBZ- 1030 & WBZ TV 4
• WRKO - 680 & WHDH TV 7 NEWS
• WCVB TV 5
• FOX 25 News

Morning preschool classes are canceled when a delayed opening has been announced.  In the case of an early release, notification of the afternoon preschool cancellation will be communicated via the same procedure.

The automated calls are considered “emergency notifications” and will be made district-wide to all listed numbers.  An opt-out option is not available. If contact numbers need to be updated, please notify your child’s school office.

Volunteering and Chaperoning in Westford Public Schools

The Westford Public Schools community deeply values the contributions of our volunteers. Whether you are assisting in a classroom, helping in the library, or chaperoning a field trip, your involvement enriches the educational experience for all students. Because the needs for volunteers vary by building and grade level, opportunities are managed on a school-specific basis. We encourage you to contact your child’s school directly to learn about current needs and upcoming events.

To ensure the safety of our students and staff, all volunteers must complete the following security clearances prior to beginning their service:

1. General Volunteering (In-School)

If you wish to volunteer within a school building (e.g., guest reading, classroom help, or event assistance), you must have a valid CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check on file.

• How to Apply: You may complete a CORI form at the main office of any of our nine schools.  This must be filled out and signed at the school and not ahead of time. 

• Reciprocity: Once a CORI is processed and approved at one school, it is valid for volunteering at any school within the Westford Public Schools district.

• Validity: CORI checks must be renewed every year.

2. Chaperoning (Off-Site Trips)

In addition to a valid CORI, any individual serving as a chaperone for a field trip or off-site school-sponsored activity must be fingerprinted in accordance with Massachusetts state law.

• Requirement: This is a separate process from the CORI check and is required for any volunteer who may have direct and unmonitored contact with students during an excursion.

• Process: Fingerprinting is conducted through a state-approved vendor. Please contact your school’s main office for the specific instructions, provider links, and district codes needed to schedule your appointment.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe environment for our students. For more information on specific opportunities or to check the status of your clearances, please reach out to your school's administration.

Visit our HR National Criminal Background Check Web Page for more information.