ASHBY — The recent closure of the Ashby Elementary School has left the town facing a major question: What should come next for the large building that now sits vacant in the center of town?
Rather than focusing solely on the loss, a new documentary project is underway that will follow how the community responds and works together to explore possible futures for the building.
The film will document the ideas, conversations and challenges that arise as residents consider how the space might continue to serve Ashby.
The project is being produced by a team from Ashby Cable, including Jim Hubert, Steve McMahon and Harold Chattaway.
Danielle Blais, host of “Knowing Your Community,” will conduct interviews with residents, local leaders and others involved in the discussion about the school’s future.
“Among those expected to be interviewed is June McNeil, a former School Committee member with deep knowledge of the school’s history and the regional context surrounding its closure,” said Heather Brodie Perry, Ashby Free Public Library director. “Through these conversations, the filmmakers hope to capture not only the facts of what happened, but also the emotions, memories and sense of identity tied to the school and the role it has played in town life.”
The story began with the decision by the North Middlesex Regional School Committee to close Ashby Elementary School.
“Ashby holds one of nine votes on the committee and, as the smallest town in the district, had limited influence over the final outcome,” Perry said. “The closure has sparked strong reactions locally, including disappointment and concern, but also a determination among many residents to make something meaningful come from the moment.”
In the months since the decision, the community has begun discussing possible uses for the building. A survey circulated among residents and a public conversation at the Ashby Free Public Library helped gather ideas and perspectives.
While many respondents expressed interest in keeping some form of education in Ashby, other possibilities have also emerged, including senior housing, a community center or other community-focused uses.
“The documentary will follow these discussions as they unfold,” added Perry. “Several small working groups are beginning to form to explore the feasibility of different options, examining costs, regulations, and potential benefits. Their work will help inform future decisions by town leaders and residents.”
Beyond simply recording events, the filmmakers hope the documentary will show how a small rural community navigates change. By capturing interviews, meetings, and personal reflections along the way, the film aims to create a record of how Ashby grapples with a difficult transition and searches for new opportunities.
The production team is also inviting local film students and others interested in documentary work to participate in the project and gain hands-on experience in filming, interviewing, and editing.
“While the future of the former Ashby Elementary School remains uncertain, the documentary will capture the process of the town working through that uncertainty together,” Perry said. “Whether the building eventually becomes a school again or takes on an entirely new role, the film will document a moment when Ashby came together to imagine what the next chapter might look like.”
Residents interested in participating in the documentary or learning more about the project are encouraged to watch for announcements through local town and library channels, call the Ashby Free Public Library at 978-386-5377, e-mail Heather Brodie Perry at [email protected] or subscribe to the new Substack newsletter at sisuasbhy.substack.com.
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