Easthampton High School offers a welcoming environment where students grow academically, socially, and personally. Many of our 8th graders are excited to explore new opportunities in clubs, athletics, and academics. At EHS, students and staff work together in research-based, inclusive, and collaborative ways to ensure success for every learner. With a strong focus on college and career readiness, EHS prepares students for success beyond graduation—whether they pursue higher education, technical training, or the workforce. At EHS, students develop the skills, confidence, and character to thrive in a diverse and ever-changing world.

Looking ahead:

• In late winter, Easthampton High School will host an Open House for students and families.
• In June, all 8th-grade students will participate in Step Up Day, which includes a visit to the high school.

Vocational Opportunities

We also recognize that some students have an interest in vocational programming. For these students, Easthampton partners with area vocational schools to ensure they have access to high-quality exploratory experiences and specialized career pathways. If your child is interested in vocational education, please review the following carefully:

• Chapter 74 Applications: All forms are due by April 1, 2026.
• Smith Vocational Applications: Due by March 15, 2026.
• CTEC Applications: Due by April 1, 2026.

Important Notes:

• Easthampton students are assigned to attend the exploratory program at Lower Pioneer Valley Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) in West Springfield, unless applying for agriculture or natural resources programs, which are offered at Smith Vocational.
• Students who begin at Smith Vocational in agriculture/natural resources but later choose a different program must reapply through the Superintendent’s office. Only programs not offered at CTEC will be approved for Smith.

• Lower Pioneer Valley Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) in West Springfield, Massachusetts has been the primary vocational affiliate for the Easthampton Public Schools since 2004 and is therefore the vocational school where Easthampton students will attend an exploratory program unless applying for agriculture or natural resources programs. 

• Statewide regulations in place for vocational education under M.G.L. c.74 define where students can take an exploratory program and are as follows:
• 603 CMR 4.03: Program Approval Criteria:

(6) Admission of Students

(b) Non-resident students. Students who reside in cities and towns not maintaining approved vocational technical education programs in the vocational technical program area sought by the student may apply for admission to a school of another city, town or district offering the desired instruction as set forth in M.G.L. c. 74, § 7.

1. Students who reside in cities and towns that do not maintain an exploratory program may apply for admission to a school of another city, town or district offering an exploratory program. Ninth grade students who reside in cities and towns that offer an approved exploratory program shall attend the exploratory program provided by the district of residence; provided however, that students may apply for non-resident admission for the purpose of exploring specialized agriculture and natural resources programs designated by the Commissioner and not available in the student's district of residence.

Open Houses:

• CTEC: November 25, 2025, and February 10, 2026 – lpvctec.org
• Smith Vocational: November 2, 2025 – smithtec.org (RSVP required online)

Next Steps for Students and Caregivers

• Mrs. Baj will visit classrooms and the cafeteria soon to help students sign up for appointments to discuss the application process.
• Applications must be completed online at home with a parent/guardian. After submission, please follow up with Mrs. Baj in Room 202A for additional paperwork.
• If you need assistance, email Mrs. Baj at hbaj@epsd.us for a digital application and directions.