Fitchburg State University and Applewild School have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), formalizing a long-standing relationship between the two historic Fitchburg educational institutions. The agreement aims to expand educational access, support local workforce development, and enhance community engagement throughout North Central Massachusetts.
As anchor institutions in a designated Gateway City, both Fitchburg State and Applewild recognize that collaboration is key to fostering a vibrant regional economy and a thriving educational landscape.
“Today isn’t just about putting pen to paper; it is about formalizing a spirit of cooperation that has been taking form for some time,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “Since my arrival to this region in 2024, I have been grateful to be part of robust dialogues between Fitchburg State and Applewild, which have been incredibly productive and, frankly, inspiring. We have spent hours discussing how two ‘anchor institutions’ in a Gateway City can move beyond simply existing side-by-side to truly working in tandem.”
“In today's educational landscape, we all face resource constraints and evolving challenges,” said Hodge. “However, our conversations have reinforced a simple truth: we are stronger together. By aligning our missions, we create a more robust educational ecosystem for North Central Massachusetts.”
“Our MOU really amplifies the work of both institutions,” said Applewild Head of School Amy Jolly, who earned a master’s in Educational Leadership and Management at Fitchburg State. “That’s what I’m most excited about. We all move forward together when we support each other. All ships rise with the tide, as they say.”
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
- Applewild School will offer a 50% tuition reduction for the children of Fitchburg State employees enrolled in its kindergarten through Grade 9 day programs (subject to availability and admissions standards).
- Fitchburg State employees will receive priority consideration for enrollment in Applewild’s infant through Pre-Kindergarten programs at the Fitchburg campus.
- The partnership reinforces the pipeline for Fitchburg State students to gain real-world experience through internships, practicums, and part-time employment at Applewild.
- Applewild will continue to actively recruit and hire qualified Fitchburg State graduates for teaching, summer camp, and professional staff positions.
- Applewild will encourage its own staff members pursuing advanced degrees to utilize Fitchburg State’s graduate programs.
- Both institutions commit to including one another in cultural, athletic, and educational events, creating a more integrated campus experience for families and students alike.
“The Applewild mission is to nurture curious learners and empower them to lead with confidence, courage and humanity,” said Jolly. “We educate students from across the world and across the country, while remaining deeply committed to our local impact here in North Central Massachusetts.”
Hodge said she is particularly excited about the tangible benefits this partnership brings to the local workforce.
“The tuition reduction for Fitchburg State employees, and priority enrollment for early childhood programs, are more than just perks; they are investments in the people who make this university run,” said Hodge. “In turn, we are proud to welcome Applewild’s educators into our graduate programs and host their families at our athletic and cultural events.”
Learn more about Applewild School and Fitchburg State University.