Resolution on the Death of Larry Aaronson

RES 2026-117 FIRST IN COUNCIL August 3, 2026 City of Cambridge COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN MAYOR SIDDIQUI COUNCILLOR SIMMONS WHEREAS: Larry Aaronson, a beloved Cambridge educator, mentor, and champion of public education, passed away on August 1, 2026, at the age of 86, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of teaching, advocacy, and service to generations of Cambridge students; and WHEREAS: Larry devoted more than forty years to educating Cambridge students, including at the former Group School and Pilot School, as well as at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, teaching history and social sciences from late 1970’s until his retirement in 2007, inspiring students to think critically, engage deeply with issues of social justice, and become thoughtful participants in civic life; and WHEREAS: Larry believed deeply that public education was the foundation of a healthy democracy, and throughout his career challenged students to think critically, embrace multiple perspectives, and use their voices to make their communities more just and compassionate; and WHEREAS: Through his commitment to progressive education, his belief in the transformative power of public schools, and his unwavering encouragement of independent thought, Larry helped shape the lives and careers of countless young people, many of whom went on to dedicate themselves to public service and social justice; and WHEREAS: Larry's classroom was known not only for its intellectual rigor but also for its compassion, creativity, and commitment to ensuring that every student felt seen, heard, and empowered, reflecting his enduring belief that education is fundamental to a strong and vibrant democracy; and WHEREAS: Beyond the classroom, Larry was a passionate advocate for the arts and for the importance of history, storytelling, and multiple perspectives, leaving an indelible mark on the culture and values of Cambridge Public Schools and the broader Cambridge community; and WHEREAS: Larry was rarely seen without his trusted camera, using it to document the lives of his students and the Cambridge community at large, generating hundreds of thousands of photos over decades, capturing both important and historic events, and regular everyday life, and WHEREAS: Larry was widely recognized as a Cambridge legend whose warmth, generosity, and lifelong commitment to justice enriched the lives of colleagues, friends, former

students, and neighbors throughout the city, and his friendship and guidance touched countless members of the Cambridge community; now therefore be it RESOLVED: That the Mayor and City Council extend their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Larry Aaronson and honor his extraordinary legacy as an educator, mentor, and advocate for public education, whose decades of service enriched the lives of generations of Cambridge students and strengthened the Cambridge community; and be it further RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the family of Larry Aaronson on behalf of the entire City Council. A true copy; ATTEST:- Paula M. Crane, Interim City Clerk

City of Cambridge Resolution on the Death of Larry Aaronson