The Heights

Mayor Fuller Voices Confidence in Newton’s Future at State of the City Address

Laney McAden • February 22, 2024

Mayor Fuller expressed her confidence in the city’s future despite recent challenges in her State of the City address.

Newton’s Verified Stop on Underground Railroad

Ella Song • February 19, 2024

In her memoir, Ellen Jackson, member of a Newton founding families, recounted a night in which a freedom seeker was brought to her home.

Local Artist Kemp Harris Inspires Change Through Story and Song

Genevieve Morrison and Laney McAden • February 19, 2024

Kemp Harris, an activist, singer-songwriter, and retired Newton educator, has a deep and colorful history and an even brighter future, making an impact on the city with musical and political commentary. “When...

Newton’s Zoning and Planning Committee Discusses Preservation of Existing Homes in Newton

Laney McAden • February 18, 2024

Newton's Zoning and Planning Committee discussed amendments to zoning laws to enhance the preservation of existing homes on Thursday night.

Teacher, School Committee Chair Reflect on Returning to School After Strike

Genevieve Morrison • February 18, 2024

Two weeks after teachers’ strike, a Newton teacher and a Newton School Committee chair spoke on the future of schools in the city.

City Council and School Committee Discuss Budget, New Communication Platform in Joint Meeting

Brendan O’Friel • February 14, 2024

Newton's City Council and School Committee discussed budgeting and a new communication platform for parents in a joint meeting Monday night.

Community Members Send Off Beloved Local Gift Shop

Brendan O’Friel • February 11, 2024

Community members gathered to bid farewell to Amy Shih, owner of the gift shop Just Next Door, following her decision to close the business.

Newton’s Former Senior Center to be Demolished Soon, Commissioner Says

Genevieve Morrison • February 9, 2024

The Newton Public Buildings Commissioner said preparations are underway to demolish the building that was previously the Newton Senior Center.

Public Safety and Transportation Committee Discusses Resident Appeals Against No-Parking Zone, Bicycle Only Access

Laney McAden • February 8, 2024

Newton’s Public Safety and Transportation Committee (PST) addressed Newton residents’ appeals to get rid of a no-parking zone along Farwell Street and an appeal to restrict access to Centre Street to only bicycles.

Newton City Council Puts $11 Million Into Infrastructure Improvements

Ella Song • February 6, 2024

Newton City Council unanimously voted to allocate over $11 million in available funding to improving city infrastructure and Newton Public Schools at its meeting Monday night.

Newton Teachers Association Reaches Contract, Ends Strike

Genevieve Morrison • February 3, 2024

After a strike that closed all Newton Public Schools for 11 days, the Newton Teachers Association reached a contract with the Newton School Committee and announced schools will reopen Monday.

Newton Teachers’ Contract Negotiations Stall After All-Night Bargaining

Genevieve Morrison • February 2, 2024

The Newton School Committee and the Newton Teachers Association ended a night of negotiations Friday morning without a deal, according to an NTA report.