In Memory of Donald Ronchetti

It is with profound sadness that I write to share heartbreaking news.  Mr. Donald Ronchetti, a social studies teacher for the past 16 years at Hanover Middle School, passed away earlier today after a long, fierce, and courageous battle with multiple heath issues.  On behalf of a grateful community, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Don’s family, his colleagues at HMS, and the thousands of students who learned about the past from a man who fought so hard to extend his own time on Earth doing what he loved – being a teacher in Hanover.

In this time of social distance, we don’t yet know how we will celebrate Don’s life and his career with us in Hanover, but we will find a way.  In the meantime, please keep Don and his family in your heart, thoughts, and prayers.  Administration and Counselors will be on hand in person (socially distanced) from 9:30 am - 1:00 pm on both Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.  Any students (past and present) or colleagues who need support are encouraged and most welcome to reach out to Principal Dan Birolini and the HMS Administration to get the assistance that they need.  Mr. Birolini will be sharing resources on grief and loss with HMS families and staff in a separate message.  

It has been an incredibly challenging year at HPS, but we won’t give in to these obstacles and sorrows.  Don never quit on his students or his colleagues even when the road was impossibly difficult for him.  In his memory, we will keep moving forward.  Godspeed, Don.  You have fought the good fight, and we will draw inspiration and motivation from your courage, compassion, and dedication to our students and HMS.  Rest in peace.

Sincerely,

Matt Ferron
Superintendent