慈濟、哈佛攜手舉辦佛學國際會議探討應用 慶祝慈濟60週年

「應用佛法與當代菩薩道：前瞻佛教的未來」國際研討會開幕發言人，左起
Stephen Teiser，何日生，汪悅進，Parimal Patil。（周菊子攝）

    （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓綜合報導）慈濟基金會與哈佛大學中國藝術媒體實驗室 （CAMLab）合辦的「應用佛法與當代菩薩道：前瞻佛教的未來」國際研討會，5月7 日揭幕，將一連舉行3日，在更嚴謹的學術框架下探討佛法如何與當代社會深度結合，同時慶祝慈濟成立六十周年。

「應用佛法與當代菩薩道：前瞻佛教的未來」國際研討會大合照。（周菊子攝）

慈濟和哈佛大學在2023年時首度合作，以「法華經與當代菩薩道」為主題，研討慈濟如何把佛法理論和慈善實踐相結合。今年第二度合作舉辦會議，共安排有9場學術論文發表，3場圓桌論壇對話，吸引了來自7個國家和地區的約50名學者與實踐者出席，既深耕慈濟作為佛學宗派之路，把「慈濟學」推向國際頂尖學術視野，也重構佛學應用如何善用科技，從個人覺悟，轉向社會實踐。會議周邊活動的「覺悟之旅」沈浸式展覽，以及音樂會，豐富了會議內容。

慈濟基金會副執行長何日生（右），哈佛CAMLab創辦人汪悅進（左）合作
舉辦佛學會議。（周菊子攝）

5月7 日一早的開幕式，有慈濟基金會副執行長何日生，哈佛CAMLab創辦人汪悅進，以及普林斯頓大學佛學研究教授Stephen Teiser，哈佛大學宗教及印度哲學教授Parimal Patil等人發言，既強調佛法智慧也要應用於日常生活，談及如何支持世界各地的佛學研究與佛教傳統，容許各種可能的替代方案。

慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處負責人鄧淑芳（左）、前負責人長金滿（右）率本地慈濟人
支援會議。（周菊子攝）

第一天的主題演講有何日生的「佛教的當代詮釋：應用佛教的意義」，以及Stephen Teiser的「佛教對疫病的因應-國去、現在與未來」。接著有「佛教、健康與照護倫理」的4場論文發表，以及「應用佛教之研究與實踐」的圓桌論壇。

第二天的專題演講有James Robson的「佛教與精神病院：佛教寺廟對精神異常者的照護（及收容），有「法華經與證嚴上人思想」，「全球人道主義與入世佛教」，「慈濟的魅力、實踐與宗教社群」，以及圓桌討論「佛教的未來」。

第三天哈佛教授汪悅進將探討「佛教之後的設計未來：以其他方式建構世界」。論文發表部分有「另類未來的設計想像」，「建築、生態與系統思維」，「心靈、中介與多感官體驗」。

5月9日晚7點半在哈佛藝術博物館主廳的「同一片天空下」音樂會，將為這場會議拉下帷幕。

慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處負責人鄧淑芳和前任負責人長金滿，以及紐約分會執行長蘇裕昇，率同兩地慈濟人共襄盛舉，還新建了「紐約弟子行願六十」的Line群組，為慈濟60年祝禱。

第二屆波士頓市長盃腰旗美式足球錦標賽訂6月6日舉行

(Boston Orange編譯)波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）偕同公園與娛樂局今（7）日宣佈，第二屆「市長盃腰旗美式足球錦標賽」將於 2026 年 6 月 6 日在西洛士百利（West Roxbury）高中運動場正式登場。

波士頓市政府舉辦這項新興的非碰撞型運動比賽，旨在為全市青少年提供一個在暑期磨練球技、安全競比的優質平台。

吳弭市長表示，市長盃腰旗足球賽不僅能讓年輕運動員建立團隊精神，更是波士頓推廣包容性體育活動的重要一環。隨著該運動在全美熱度攀升，市府期望透過賽事讓更多孩子親身體驗美式足球的魅力。

本次錦標賽針對不同年齡層設置了五大組別，包括 8 歲、10 歲、12 歲及 15 歲以下的男子組，並特別規劃了女子高中組。主辦單位強調，腰旗足球因不具備傳統足球的劇烈身體衝撞，是各年齡與體能水準青少年接觸美式足球的最佳入門選擇。

賽事報名即日起開放至 5 月 31 日（週日）截止，有意參賽的隊伍可至波士頓市府官網（boston.gov/parks-sports）進行線上登記。民眾如欲瞭解更多詳情或公園相關動態，亦可撥打專線或追蹤波士頓公園局社群媒體頻道。

Mayor's Cup Flag Football Tournament to take place June 6, 2026

BOSTON – Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department today announced that registration is open for the second annual Mayor’s Cup Flag Football Tournament, offering young athletes across the city a new way to compete, build skills, and have fun this summer.

The tournament will take place Saturday, June 6, at West Roxbury High School Athletic Fields, 1205 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury.

Flag football is a fast-growing, non-contact version of traditional football that is an accessible and inclusive option for youth of all skill levels. With rising popularity across the country, the Mayor’s Cup Flag Football Tournament offers Boston youth a chance to get in the game and experience the excitement firsthand.

Teams will compete in five divisions: boys 8 & under, boys 10 & under, boys 12 & under, boys 15 & under, and girls high school division. 

Team registration is open now through Sunday, May 31. Interested teams can register online at boston.gov/parks-sports. For more information, contact Woodley Auguste at woodley.auguste@boston.gov or (617) 961-3084.

To stay up to date on news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Facebook and Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.

麻州長、檢察長、審計長聯袂宣佈 Andrew Jackmauh 出任醫療資訊及分析中心主任

Governor Healey, Attorney General Campbell and Auditor DiZoglio Announce Andrew Jackmauh as Executive Director of Center for Health Information and Analysis  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and State Auditor Diana DiZoglio today announced the joint appointment of Andrew Jackmauh as Executive Director of the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA), following his service as Acting Executive Director since January. 

Jackmauh brings extensive experience in health policy, data analysis and public sector leadership. He previously served for eight years as Chief of Staff at CHIA, where he played a key role in advancing the agency’s work to promote transparency, affordability and equity across the Massachusetts health care system. 

"The high cost of health care is one of the biggest challenges facing families and businesses in Massachusetts, and we need clear, reliable data to inform our efforts around affordability,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Andrew understands how to turn data into real results. Under his leadership, CHIA will continue to put out critical information to guide policymaking, strengthen accountability, and help us build a more affordable and equitable health care system across Massachusetts.”  

“Access to high-quality health care data has never been more important, and Andrew Jackmauh brings the experience, vision, and steady leadership needed to guide CHIA’s critical work,” said Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. “I am confident that under Andrew’s leadership, CHIA will continue to be a national model for data collection and analytics that promote affordability, equity, and accountability in our health care system.”  

“At a time when residents across Massachusetts are feeling the strain of rising health care costs, it is essential that we have clear, accessible, and reliable information to guide decision-making," said State Auditor Diana DiZoglio. "Andrew Jackmauh has demonstrated a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and data-driven policymaking throughout his time at CHIA and understands the importance of making complex data meaningful and actionable. Under his leadership, CHIA can strengthen its role as a trusted source of analysis that supports affordability, equity, and better outcomes for patients and families across the Commonwealth”  

As Executive Director, Jackmauh will lead CHIA’s work to analyze health care cost trends, monitor system performance, and deliver timely, transparent data to policymakers, stakeholders and the public. His appointment comes as Massachusetts continues to confront rising health care costs and advance efforts to improve affordability and health equity statewide.  

“I am honored to have been selected for this appointment and excited to continue serving alongside the dedicated team at CHIA,” said Andrew Jackmauh, Executive Director of the Center for Health Information and Analysis. “As Massachusetts continues to confront rising health care costs and ongoing challenges around access and equity, CHIA’s work providing trusted data and analysis is more important than ever. I look forward to working with our partners across the state to continue advancing affordability, equity and better outcomes for patients and families.” 

The Center for Health Information and Analysis is an independent state agency that provides objective data and analysis to support better decision making and improve the quality, affordability and equity of health care in Massachusetts. 

麻州推廣「我的職業與學業規劃」 ＭyCAP助力學生及早規劃未來

 (Boston Orange摘譯) 麻州5月7日在斯特布里奇（Sturbridge）舉辦「我的職業與學業規劃（My Career and Academic Plan，簡稱 MyCAP）」展示會，吸引 100 個學區的 300多名教育代表參加，學習麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）提議列為高中畢業關鍵項目的MyCAP 規劃流程。

MyCAP 是一套引導學生規劃未來路徑的架構，協助學生根據個人興趣，對接合適的課程、實習機會及大學申請步驟。奚莉州長強調，這規劃流程能讓學生看見課堂學習與未來發展的關聯；麻州中小學教育委員會委員長馬丁內斯（Pedro Martinez）形容，該流程讓學生成為自己的「個人未來建築師」。

麻州「大學先修項目（Early College programs）」與「創新職業路徑（and Innovation Career Pathways）」等計畫，已把MyCAP列為學生的必修項目。麻州副州長Kim Driscoll指出，此機制能讓學生從中學起就開始探索職涯。

麻州政府已撥款 92.5 萬美元補助 75 個學區落實 MyCAP。州長更在 2027 財政年度預算中提案增資 300 萬美元，使「重塑高中」計畫總投資額突破 5,000 萬美元。

100 School Districts Attend Showcase about MyCAP Planning Process

My Career and Academic Plan (MyCAP) helps students draw their path from school to college and a career

STURBRIDGE – More than 300 people from 100 school districts attended a My Career and Academic Plan (MyCAP) showcase today to learn more about the planning process that is a key element in the proposed graduation requirements released in collaboration with Governor Maura Healey’s K-12 Statewide Graduation Council.

Already in use in many high schools and some middle schools, MyCAP is a structured, student-driven college, career, and civic readiness framework that helps students map out the personal, academic and career experiences that will help them reach their post-secondary goals. MyCAP can inform what courses students choose to take, what internships and volunteer opportunities they might pursue, the steps students need to take in order to apply for and attend college (including filling out financial aid forms), and what they need to do to be ready for the workforce.

“As we strengthen graduation requirements in Massachusetts, MyCAP will help students see how what they’re learning in the classroom connects to real opportunities beyond high school,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Whether a student wants to go to college, enter the workforce, or pursue technical training, MyCAP gives students the opportunity to explore different career pathways and take meaningful steps toward college, careers, and civic life.”

 

“We want students across Massachusetts to have the opportunity to explore future career pathways early, and MyCAP is designed to be a map of their options,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “MyCAP helps students connect their interests, skills and strengths to a career path from middle school to high school and beyond.”

 

In December, the Healey-Driscoll Administration released a statewide graduation framework that builds on the administration’s Reimagining High School initiative, which aims to make certain that Massachusetts students are prepared for college or careers when they graduate high school. Through this, the administration has expanded access to career-connected educational opportunities, including through career technical education programs, Early College and Innovation Career Pathways. MyCAP is currently required for all students in each of the three programs. 

This initial graduation framework was a first step, and the Executive Office of Education and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education have been engaging with stakeholders to finalize the details. 

“MyCAP is not just a checklist, it's a process that helps students see themselves more clearly by exploring their interests and connecting what they are learning in the classroom to the outside world,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “When we connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, we help students build confidence, develop essential skills, and discover pathways that lead to meaningful careers and lifelong success.”

“MyCAP is the mechanism by which students move from being recipients of education to being architects of their own futures,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “It’s a critical part of the proposed graduation framework because it is adaptable, connects learning to real-world skills, and will help prepare our students for challenging and rewarding jobs here in Massachusetts.”

In October, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced an $8.5 million investment in career-connected learning grants, awarding more than $925,000 to 75 school districts to support planning for and implementing MyCAP. In her Fiscal Year 2027 budget, Governor Healey is proposing a $3 million increase to the Reimagining High School initiative, investing over $50 million in career technical education programs.

Today’s MyCAP Showcase included remarks from Secretary Zrike and brought districts together to highlight promising practices, share lessons learned, and celebrate the progress happening in MyCAP. As MyCAP is a whole-school and whole-district approach, districts were encouraged to identify teams including a variety of roles (i.e., administrators, counselors, educators, etc.) to attend.

麻州參議會為州民申張公民權益通過「保護法」

(Boston Orange編譯) 麻州參議會今（ 7） 日通過旨在保護州民，對抗聯邦政府執行移民法時涉嫌濫權，明確禁止地方警察參與聯邦民事移民行動的「保護法（PROTECT Act）」。

在麻州參議會中編號S.3072的法案，針對聯邦探員建立了一套問責機制，以確保麻州居民在面對聯邦政府執法行動時，公民權益能得到州政府的法律保障。

該法案核心在於劃清「地方執法」與「聯邦移民任務」的界線。法案明文禁止州警與地方警力協助聯邦在民事案件中逮補移民，並把學校、醫院、法院、教堂及托兒所列為「執法禁區」，禁止在上述地點抓捕移民。

該法案也賦予面臨驅逐威脅家長預先安排子女監護權的法律空間，同時禁止其他州的國民警衛隊（National Guards）擅自進入麻州境內。

麻州參議會議長史派卡（Karen E. Spilka, D-Ashland）表示，此舉是為了回應川普（Donald Trump）政府執行移民法「武器化」造成的恐懼，強調麻州拒絕拆散家庭或在街頭隨意帶走學生的行徑。參議院指導與政策委員會（Senate Committee on Steering and Policy）主席弗里德曼（Cindy F. Friedman, D-Arlington）也補充，法案清晰界定了地方警官並無義務協助聯邦移民執法，這對維護社區信任至關重要。

代表勞倫斯市的參議員帕亞諾（Pavel M. Payano, D-Lawrence）強調，移民群體是麻州經濟與社區的重要支柱，州政府必須站在保護人性尊嚴的一方。參議院同時澄清，這項針對民事移民案件的保護法案，完全不會削弱地方警方調查與起訴刑事犯罪的既有權力。

Senate Passes PROTECT Act to Defend Residents from Federal Immigration Overreach 

 PROTECT Act Creates New Accountability for Federal Agents 

and Keeps Local Police Out of Civil Immigration Enforcement 

(BOSTON—5/7/2026) The Massachusetts Senate today passed sweeping legislation to protect residents from the Trump administration’s weaponization of federal immigration enforcement. 

The PROTECT Act holds federal immigration agents legally accountable for civil rights violations, bars local and state police from participating in civil federal immigration enforcement, and prohibits immigration arrests at courthouses, houses of worship, schools, hospitals, and childcare facilities.  

The bill also blocks unauthorized deployment of other states’ National Guards into Massachusetts and allows parents facing detention or deportation to pre-arrange guardianship for their children. 

“Today, the Massachusetts Senate is taking action to protect immigrant families, defend constitutional rights, and stand up to the fear and cruelty being fueled by Donald Trump’s weaponization of federal immigration enforcement,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Across our Commonwealth, we are seeing children torn from their parents, students pulled off the street, and families living in fear—and we refuse to accept that as normal in Massachusetts.” 

“The PROTECT Act is comprehensive legislation that defends the values enshrined in the Massachusetts Constitution, particularly equal protection under the law for all,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington), Chair of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy. “This bill will increase protections for our residents, spells out plainly and clearly that Massachusetts law enforcement officers are not responsible for aiding civil immigration enforcement, and importantly, stands up for our immigrant community in the face of an adversarial federal government. I want to thank Senate President Spilka, my colleagues in the Senate, especially members of the Committee on Steering and Policy and the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and the advocates and stakeholders who contributed immensely to the strengthening of this bill.” 

“My parents came to Lawrence with very little and gave everything they had to this community. That same story is being lived by immigrant families across our Gateway Cities today. They are our neighbors, our teachers, our health care workers, our small business owners. The people who keep Massachusetts moving,” said Senator Pavel M. Payano (D-Lawrence), a member of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy and the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. “The PROTECT Act makes clear that no matter what happens in Washington, Massachusetts will not allow our institutions or our communities to be weaponized against the people who helped build them. Today we made clear whose side we are on. This is an important step forward, but the fight to protect dignity and basic humanity is far from over.” 

The legislation—S.3072, An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust and equal constitutional treatment—delivers targeted protections for those most at risk: young children, crime victims, legal residents with complex immigration statuses, and public employees subjected to federal intimidation. 

The Senate’s PROTECT Act makes clear that none of its provisions limit local law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute a crime. 

Additional provisions of the bill include:  

• Preventing Racial Profiling and Unnecessary Immigration Checks: Prohibits state and local law enforcement from stopping, questioning, or targeting individuals based solely on immigration or citizenship status, strengthening protections against discrimination. 

• Strengthens Trust in Local Law Enforcement: Bars Massachusetts law enforcement from participating in new federal “287(g)” agreements that deputize local police to carry out federal immigration enforcement duties. 

• Protects Sensitive Community Spaces: Prohibits warrantless civil immigration arrests in sensitive locations such as schools, childcare centers, hospitals, houses of worship, and state courthouses, helping ensure residents can access essential services without fear. 

• Supports Families Facing Immigration Detention: Allows parents to establish pre-arranged guardianship plans so children can remain safely cared for if a parent is detained or deported. 

• Limits Local Involvement in Civil Immigration Enforcement: Clarifies that state and local law enforcement may not participate in civil immigration enforcement activities, including detaining individuals solely on immigration detainers or using routine stops to inquire about immigration status, while preserving full authority to enforce criminal law. 

• Protects Victims and Witnesses of Crime: Strengthens protections for immigrants who are victims or witnesses of crimes, including trafficking victims, and expedites visa processes so they can safely assist law enforcement and prosecutors. 

• Safeguards Public Employees Acting in Good Faith: Expands protections for state and municipal employees by allowing indemnification when they are acting within the scope of their official duties, shielding them from inappropriate federal intimidation or legal pressure. 

The bill builds on proposals offered by the Governor, the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and the House of Representatives, as the Legislature and the Executive Branch recognize the gravity and urgency of these issues and work together to address them in a timely and coordinated way. 

The legislation is a product of extensive input from Senators, immigrant rights groups, members of the public, and law enforcement officials. 

The PROTECT Act was the subject of a public hearing before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security on March 18, 2026. The House passed a version of the bill on March 25, 2025. The Committee on Steering and Policy also considered policies recommended by Governor Maura Healey in outside sections of a supplemental budget she filed on January 29, 2026 (H.5050), among other proposals before the Legislature. 

Full details of the legislation are available in a fact sheet in the Senate’s press room.  

The Senate passed the PROTECT Act on a 37-3 roll call vote and sent it back to the House of Representatives for further consideration. 

麻州中小學教育處表揚20名得獎老師

Healey-Driscoll Administration Recognizes Award-Winning Educators at Statewide Celebration DEVENS – The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recognized 20 award-winning educators from across Massachusetts at its annual Celebration Honoring Excellence in Teaching on Tuesday, May 5, during National Teacher Appreciation Week. In addition to the award presentations, Lowell High School’s Sound Impressions sang and danced for the 100 guests.   “Teachers change lives every single day, and these honorees represent the very best of education in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “They are inspiring curiosity, building confidence and helping students see what’s possible for their futures. We are proud to celebrate these extraordinary educators and grateful to every teacher across Massachusetts for the care, dedication and passion they bring to their classrooms and school communities every day.”   “Great educators leave a lasting impact not only on their students, but on entire communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re proud to recognize these outstanding teachers, counselors, nurses and school leaders who go above and beyond to support young people and help them succeed. Massachusetts is stronger because of their leadership, compassion and commitment to students.”   “Being in a room with so many outstanding educators is truly inspiring,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “It is especially meaningful that we gathered here during Teacher Appreciation Week—a time to celebrate the unwavering commitment, care, and love our educators show to students every day. Congratulations to the awardees and thank you to all our talented educators across Massachusetts.” “It was a fantastic evening to be in a room with so much excellence,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. "These teachers, administrators, nurses, and counselor have a profound impact on their colleagues and students, and we're grateful for their work." Wellpoint, a health benefits company that serves Group Insurance Commission (GIC) members, this year sponsored the Teacher of the Year program, offering $10,000 to the winner’s school and $5,000 each to the finalists’ schools.   “Wellpoint is honored to celebrate the 2026 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year and this year’s honorees for their outstanding commitment to students and communities across the Commonwealth,” said David Morales, general manager of Wellpoint. “In our second year sponsoring this program, we’re proud to recognize educators who make a lasting difference and remain committed to supporting their whole health and role in inspiring the next generation.”  The educators honored during DESE’s May 5 event were: 2026 Teacher of the Year Tara Goodhue, Science Teacher, Lowell High School Finalists for 2026 Teacher of the Year Sarah Costello, First Grade Teacher, South Row Elementary School, Chelmsford Thomas Simmons, English Teacher, Mario Umana Academy, Boston Beatriz Thomas, Social Studies Teacher, Somerville High School Semifinalists for 2026 Teacher of the Year Amy Adamski, Math Teacher, Hampshire Regional High School Michael López, Drama Teacher, Lynn English High School Anderson Manuel, First Grade Teacher, General John Nixon Elementary School, Sudbury Lisa Yendriga-Norberg, History/Social Studies Teacher, Sumner G. Whittier School, Everett 2025-26 Milken Educator Award Winner Elizabeth Metts, History Teacher, Excel Academy Charter High School in East Boston History Teacher of the Year Jenny Staysniak, History Teacher, Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School 2025 STEM Teachers of the Year (Patriots Hall of Fame Presented by RTX) Elizabeth Mundy, Chemistry Teacher, Watertown High School Tammy Rumplik, STEM Teacher, Roberta G. Doering School, Agawam Superintendent of the Year (Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents) Karen Crebase, Superintendent, Hopedale Public Schools High School Principal of the Year (Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association) Scott Palladino, Principal, Wareham High School  Middle School Principal of the Year (Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association) Sarah Houle, Principal, Southbridge Middle School Elementary School Principal of the Year (Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association) Liz Garden, Principal, Henry P. Clough Elementary, Mendon-Upton Regional School District Assistant Principal of the Year (Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association) Michael Lavelle, Assistant Principal, Quaboag Regional Middle & High School School Counselor of the Year (Massachusetts School Counselors Association) Henry Wan, School Counselor, Harrington Elementary School, Lexington School Nurse Administrator of the Year (Massachusetts School Nurse Organization) Stephanie Moisan, School Nurse Leader, Dudley-Charlton Regional School District School Nurse of the Year (Massachusetts School Nurse Organization) Laurie Sheridan, School Nurse, Hawthorne Brook Middle School, North Middlesex Regional School District

麻州政府推出「我的托兒服務」一站式申請資助平台

(Boston Orange 編譯) 麻州政府今（7）日宣佈，推出「我的托兒服務（MyChildCareMA）」，一個現代化，支持多語，方便手機使用的麻州托兒服務資助（CCFA）申請平台。

「我的托兒服務（MyChildCareMA）」是經由麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）的《未來科技法案（FutureTech Act）》及資本投資計畫（Capital Investment Plan）支持開發的網路平台，讓麻州家庭能在這平台上，一站式的完成托兒服務資助的申請、進度追蹤及個案管理等作業，大幅度簡化以往的繁瑣行政流程。

「我的托兒服務」資助申請網路平台和「我的麻州政府（MyMassGov）」網路平台的聯動，整合，統一以往分散的作業系統，更新使用的科技軟體，為家長與托兒服務提供者解決了在多個系統間切換的困擾。

麻州副州長Kim Driscoll指出，新門戶網站將所有需求集中於一處，為家長和托兒服務提供者建立出更好的透明度與便利性，將來還可擴展內容，把候補名單管理、資格審核及款項支付等都包括進去，更加完善個案管理，甚至和其他機構合作，把資格審查和入學註冊，都包括進去，以確保居民申請政府服務時，不會找錯機構。

麻州教育廳廳長瑞克（Steve Zrike）與技術服務暨安全秘書長史奈德（Jason Snyder）均強調，這項投資反映了政府致力於打造簡單、安全且易於取得的數位服務。早期教育與照護局（Department of Early Education and Care, EEC）局長科肖（Amy Kershaw）表示，MyChildCareMA 是 EEC 2026-2030 年戰略行動計畫中的關鍵組成部分，展現了以家庭為中心的行政轉型。除了科技更新，政府的配套辦法也放寬了收入限制，將申請資格從麻州收入中位數的 50% 提高至 85%，並自 2023 財政年度起增加了 1.675 億美元的提供者報銷額度。

包括麻州參議會議長斯皮爾卡（Karen E. Spilka）、參議員路易斯（Jason Lewis）以及多家非營利組織（如 Strategies for Children、麻州 Head Start 協會、麻州青年會聯盟等）負責人均對此表示支持。他們認為，減少文書障礙與提升系統的可及性，是邁向托兒照護體系公平的重要一步，能讓托育機構將更多精力從行政作業轉向直接支持兒童與家庭的成長。家長現可透過 Mass.gov/EEC 網站獲取更多使用指引與資源。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches New Family Portal to Help Parents, Caregivers Pay for Child Care 

MyChildCareMA portal creates a more user-friendly, streamlined and family-centered child care financial assistance system experience

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the launch of MyChildCareMA, a modern, mobile-friendly and multilingual family portal for the state’s Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) programs. Families can now apply for child care financial assistance, track application progress, and manage their cases through a single, streamlined platform.

MyChildCareMA was supported through Governor Maura Healey’s FutureTech Act and Capital Investment Plan (CIP). This improved user experience will make it easier for families to apply for help paying for care, ease administrative burdens on child care providers and improve program integrity and transparency.

“Massachusetts consistently ranks as one of the best places in the country to raise a family because we make real investments for families to be able to afford child care and other supportive services,” said Governor Maura Healey.“We’re proud of the work our administration is doing to make it easier for families to get the help they need, and MyChildCareMA is a big step forward. It makes it simpler, faster, and more transparent for families to apply for and manage child care financial assistance all in one place.”

“Families across Massachusetts deserve systems that are responsive and reliable,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The new portal brings everything into one place, making it easier for parents and caregivers to apply for assistance, stay informed, and manage their child care needs with greater confidence and convenience.”

The system is part of the MyMassGov state services platform. Families can log in using the same credentials they use for other MyMassGov services with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), or they can create a new account to get started. 

The underlying technical systems supporting the CCFA programs are out of date, and families and child care providers must navigate multiple systems to accomplish just one task. MyChildCareMA will eventually serve as both a family portal and case management system, delivering a more accessible, dignified, and user-friendly digital experience. The unified case management system will include managing the child care financial assistance waitlist, application and eligibility determination, and payments. EEC will also be better prepared to work with other agencies on Integrated Eligibility and Enrollment so there is no wrong door for Massachusetts residents accessing government services.

 

“Families want to be able to access government services at the time and places that work for them, in their common language and on a mobile device. The new MyChildCareMA family portal is part of our efforts to transform the child care financial assistance system into what families and providers want and deserve,” said Secretary of Education Steve Zrike. “This is Team Massachusetts at its best. I want to thank Governor Healey for prioritizing IT modernizations that help families access and pay for care and all of the teams across state government who helped make this exciting portal possible.”

 “The ChildCareMA launchreflects exactly the kind of IT capital investment we should be making to deliver digital government services that are simple, secure, and accessible to every resident,” said Technology Services and Security Secretary Jason Snyder. “By investing in solutions like this, we are not only modernizing state IT, but also building a more responsive government that meets people where they are.”

“This launch represents a major step forward in how we serve families across Massachusetts,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. “MyChildCareMA reflects a family-centered approach that prioritizes a more dignified, accessible user experience, while also advancing our work to modernize technology systems to better support families and those who serve them.”

The MyChildCareMA family portal is one of four foundational components of the Department of Early Education and Care’s (EEC) information technology (IT) modernization efforts outlined in the agency’s 2026–2030 Strategic Action Plan. This initiative advances the agency’s Family Access strategic objective, which focuses on simplifying and enhancing how families connect with early education and care resources.

Modernizing IT through MyChildCareMA is also one part of a broader set of CCFA reforms to improve access and better support families and providers. The administration has streamlined regulations to simplify applications and reduce paperwork, and raised income eligibility from 50 percent to 85 percent of state median income, and, for the first time in 15 years, re-procured provider contracts to strengthen standards and improve service delivery. These efforts are complemented by these investments in new, user-friendly technology and a $167.5 million increase in provider reimbursement rates since Fiscal Year 2023, as well as federal approval to move toward a cost-based methodology for setting rates.

 "Accessing financial assistance for childcare should be simple," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland).  “When we make it easier for families to get the support they've already earned, we make Massachusetts stronger. I applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration for creating this family portal, which is an important step forward for working families across the Commonwealth."

“Families deserve a simple, straightforward way to apply for and track their child care financial assistance from the state,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “The new MyChildCareMA portal will provide just that to improve access and transparency and to just make life a little easier.”

EEC will continue to provide resources and support to families and partners as they begin using the new system. For more information and guidance, please visit the EEC website at Mass.gov/EEC.

 

Governor Healey Nominates New Judges and Clerk Magistrate

 Governor Healey Nominates New Judges and Clerk Magistrate 

  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey nominated Alison Silber to serve as Associate Justice of the Probate and Family Court, Georgia Petropoulos to serve as an Associate Justice of the District Court and Gregory Bartlett to serve as the Clerk Magistrate for the Southern Berkshire District Court. The three nominees will now be considered by the Governor’s Council for confirmation.   

 

“All three of these attorneys will bring deep legal expertise and sound judgement to the courts, and I am excited to nominate them,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I am confident that they will approach these new roles with integrity and a commitment to fairness for all our residents.”  

“I look forward to working with the Governor’s Council to confirm these three nominees so that they can serve the Courts with distinction,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. 

The Probate and Family Court Department is responsible for family-related and probate matters such as divorce, paternity, child support, custody, adoption, wills, estates, and guardianships. Its mission is to provide fair, equitable, and timely access to justice while assisting and protecting individuals and families. For more information about the Probate and Family Court Department, please visit its homepage. Governor Healey has previously nominated 21 judges to the Probate and Family Court: Laurel Barraco, Manisha Bhatt, Jennifer Bingham, Bethany Brown, Colleen Carroll, Jessica Dubin, Mary Ferriter, Alexandra Flanders, Timothy Horan, Mikalen Howe, Lyonel Jean-Pierre Jr., Mark Lee, Caryn Mitchell-Munevar, Evelyn Patsos, Alessandra Petruccelli, Brian Salisbury, Carla Salvucci, Bernadette Stark, Toiya Taylor, Elena Tsizer, and Michelle Yee. 

 

The District Court Department hears a wide range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental health, and other types of cases. District Court criminal jurisdiction extends to all felonies punishable by a sentence up to five years, and many other specific felonies with greater potential penalties, all misdemeanors, and all violations of city and town ordinances and by-laws. In civil matters, the District Court hears cases in which the damages are not likely to be more than $50,000 and small claims cases up to $7,000. The District Court is located in 62 courts across the state. Governor Healey has already nominated 32 attorneys to the District Court: Heath Antonio,  Patrick Burke, Tonomey Coleman, Lisa Core, Frances Dallmeyer, Frederick DeCubellis, Brian Doxtader, Mark Fabiano, Leo Fama,  Lauren Greene, Stuart Hurowitz, Paul Anthony, Edward Kacasinas, Francis V. Kenneally, Sarah Kennedy, Edward Jr. Krippendorf, Cara Krysil, Courtney C. Linnehan, Hilary McCamic, Suzanne McDonough, Becky Michaels, Craig Mulcahey, Jerry Parisella, Polly Phillips, William Powers, Joanna Rodriguez,  Gegory Teran, Marjorie P. Tynes, Amanda Ward, Shelly-Ann Sankar, Liza Williamson,and Hector Zumbado.   

Governor Healey has previously nominated Ann Dawley, Bill Larkin,  Robert E. Manning, Jr., Robert Palumbo, John P. Riordan, Dana Rutherford, Padraic Rafferty, Scott Rathbun, John Stocks and Lori Leavitt Wheeler to serve as Clerk Magistrates. 

 

 

About the Nominees: 

 

Alison Silber is a domestic relations litigator, conciliator, and mediator. After clerking for the domestic relations calendar at the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, Attorney Silber opened her private family law practice in 2011 and in 2014 moved it to Western Massachusetts, where she has focused on all aspects of domestic relations law including divorce, post-divorce modification, contempt, adoption, assisted reproductive technology, child custody, and child support matters. She regularly represents children as Guardian/Next Friend and through the Children’s Law Project and is one of the founding mediators of the Family Resolutions Specialty Court. She holds a Bachelor of the Arts from the University of Pennsylvania, cum laude, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland Carey School of Law.   

 

Georgia Petropoulos is a highly experienced trial lawyer who has tried hundreds of cases to conclusion across the Juvenile, District, and Superior Courts. For the past 23 years, she has run a solo practice focused on criminal defense and related civil matters. She has defended clients through the Pilgrim Bar Advocate Program, tried jury and bench trials, and represented clients at bail detention hearings and probation surrenders. Prior to opening her practice, Attorney Petropoulos served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office where she prosecuted a wide range of misdemeanors and felonies in the District and Superior Courts. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Suffolk University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Massachusetts Law School.  

Gregory Bartlett has served as the First Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the Northern Berkshire District court since 2012. In this capacity, he is responsible for assisting in the management of the Court’s daily operations, presiding over small claims matters and show cause hearings, conducting administrative and motor vehicle appeals, and reviewing search warrants and arrest reports.  Prior to joining the Clerk’s Office, he served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted a wide range of cases in the Berkshire District Courts. Before entering public service, he was an Associate at Hochberg Law Offices where his practice focused on domestic relations law, personal injury cases, and estate planning. Born and raised in Berkshire County, Bartlett spent ten years between college and law school working in residential homes for adolescents and serving as a Child Protective Social Worker for the Department of Children and Families. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from St. Lawrence University and a Juris Doctor from Western New England University School of Law. Bartlett resides in Pittsfield with his wife, Christine, and their cats Morty and Fred. 

Senate Takes Up PROTECT Act to Defend Residents from Federal Immigration Overreach

Senate Takes Up PROTECT Act to Defend Residents from Federal Immigration Overreach 

 PROTECT Act Creates New Accountability for Federal Agents 

and Keeps Local Police Out of Civil Immigration Enforcement 

 

(BOSTON—5/7/2026) The Massachusetts Senate this morning took up sweeping legislation to protect residents from the Trump administration’s weaponization of federal immigration enforcement. 

 

To protect immigrants in Massachusetts, the legislation holds federal immigration agents legally accountable for civil rights violations, bars local and state police from participating in civil federal immigration enforcement, and prohibits immigration arrests at courthouses, houses of worship, schools, hospitals, and childcare facilities. 

 

The Senate’s PROTECT Act delivers targeted protections for those most at risk: young children, crime victims, legal residents with complex immigration statuses, and public employees subjected to federal intimidation.  

 

It also makes clear that none of its provisions limit local law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute a crime. 

 

“Today, the Massachusetts Senate is taking action to protect immigrant families, defend constitutional rights, and stand up to the fear and cruelty being fueled by Donald Trump’s weaponization of federal immigration enforcement,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Across our Commonwealth, we are seeing children torn from their parents, students pulled off the street, and families living in fear—and we refuse to accept that as normal in Massachusetts. I applaud Senate Steering and Policy Chair Cindy Friedman for her leadership, and each member of the Massachusetts Black and Latino Caucus for their unparalleled work on this legislation.”

 

“The PROTECT Act is comprehensive legislation that defends the values enshrined in the Massachusetts Constitution, particularly equal protection under the law for all,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington), Chair of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy. “This bill will increase protections for our residents, spells out plainly and clearly that Massachusetts law enforcement officers are not responsible for aiding civil immigration enforcement, and importantly, stands up for our immigrant community in the face of an adversarial federal government. I want to thank Senate President Spilka, my colleagues in the Senate, especially members of the Committee on Steering and Policy and the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and the advocates and stakeholders who contributed immensely to the strengthening of this bill.” 

 

“My parents came to Lawrence with very little and gave everything they had to this community. That same story is being lived by immigrant families across our Gateway Cities today. They are our neighbors, our teachers, our health care workers, our small business owners. The people who keep Massachusetts moving,” said Senator Pavel M. Payano (D-Lawrence), a member of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy and the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. “The PROTECT Act makes clear that no matter what happens in Washington, Massachusetts will not allow our institutions or our communities to be weaponized against the people who helped build them. Today we made clear whose side we are on. This is an important step forward, but the fight to protect dignity and basic humanity is far from over.” 

 

The bill builds on proposals offered by the Governor, the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and the House of Representatives, as the Legislature and the Executive Branch recognize the gravity and urgency of these issues and work together to address them in a timely and coordinated way. 

 

The Senate opened debate on the major legislation—S.3072, An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust and equal constitutional treatment—at a formal session today and began considering the 76 proposed amendments to the bill. 

 

Full details of the legislation are available in a fact sheet in the Senate’s press room.