Education edford's education system is recognized statewide and nationally for its progressive, broad curriculum. Neighborhood elementary schools feed into a central middle and high school complex. Nearby, Middlesex Community College, part of the state's public education system, offers undergraduate associate degrees. Bedford is also a member of the regional Shawsheen Vocational School district. In the New England tradition of full representation, Bedford runs an annual open town meeting at which all legal voting residents can discuss and vote on issues of budget or law.
Most municipal departments answer to the town administrator's office.
Other elected and appointed positions or boards address the various administrative, regulatory, and planning functions. Volunteers are encouraged to participate. Full-time police and fire departments are located in the town's center on The Great Road. The Public Works Department maintains Springs Brook Park that contains a small man-made lake for summer recreation. It also maintains highways, parks, cemeteries, water, sewer, drainage facilities, and recreation sites.