Chesterton Academy names headmaster
EASTHAMPTON — Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy has named Luke Hollwedel as its founding headmaster, ahead of the new Catholic classical high school’s planned opening in fall 2027. The school is looking for a site in Hampshire County.
Hollwedel brings more than a decade of experience in Catholic education and school leadership, having held positions at Saint Michael School in Brattleboro, Vermont, St. Mary’s High School in Westfield and Pope Francis Preparatory School in Springfield. He also serves as a formator with the Institute of Catholic Liberal Education.
“Luke is exactly the leader we need,” said Jesse Mayhew, chair of the Academy’s Board of Directors. “He possesses a combination of deep Catholic faith, intellectual excellence, proven administrative leadership, and genuine love for students.”
Over the coming year, Hollwedel will work with the board to establish the school’s academic culture, recruit faculty, meet with prospective families, and build relationships with parishes and community partners ahead of the school’s launch.
“Western Massachusetts has long needed a Classical Academy for families interested in this educational model,” Hollwedel said. “I look forward to serving our students and families and helping build a school that will strengthen the Church in western Massachusetts for generations to come.”
The Academy, a member of the Chesterton Schools Network, is now accepting enrollment inquiries for its inaugural class.
Remembering 9/11 event in South Hadley
SOUTH HADLEY — In remembrance of the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, the South Hadley Public Library, South Hadley Senior Center and South Hadley High School will host a community viewing event featuring retired New York Fire Department First Responder Joseph T. Bonanno.
Joining the community live via Zoom, Bonanno will share his personal experiences and reflections on the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Community members may attend at one of several viewing locations throughout South Hadley. To attend at the South Hadley Public Library, register at shadleylib.org or call 413-538-5045. To attend at the South Hadley Senior Center, call 413-538-5030, ext. 3. Information about attending at South Hadley High School will be announced soon.
This special community program is made possible through the support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which has generously provided Bonanno as the guest speaker.
Northampton to hold ‘Observing the Night Sky’ class
NORTHAMPTON — The city’s Parks & Recreation Department is accepting registrations for a fall “Observing the Night Sky” class, beginning the week of Sept. 21.
The four-week class meets Monday evenings after dark, using a large telescope to view Saturn, the moon, the Andromeda Galaxy and other sights, while participants learn to identify major constellations. Because clear skies are required, sessions will shift to the next available clear weekday evening if needed.
The program is open to adults, and children 6 and older may register and participate with an adult.
To register or learn more, call 413-587-1040, email recreation@northamptonma.gov or visit www.northamptonma.gov/recreation.
Granby Cultural Council to hold info session on applying for grants
GRANBY — The Granby Cultural Council will host an information session on applying for its local cultural grants at the Granby Free Public Library on Sept. 3 at 5:30 p.m.
Project grants are available for performers, artists and groups to bring presentations and programming to Granby venues. Applications for the 2027 grant round are due Oct. 15.
The library is located at 297 East State St. (Route 202). For more information, contact gculturalcouncil@gmail.com.