|
|
| Greetings!
Friday notes is a weekly update from Superintendent Gary E. Maestas on the happenings within the Plymouth Public Schools.
|
Plymouth Public Schools School Committee Meetings: The next regular meeting of the Plymouth School Committee will be Monday, October 17, 2011. School Committee meetings are held at
Plymouth Community Intermediate School in
the Little Theatre. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m.
|
|
Weekly Quote: "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because some day in life you will have been all of these." - George Washington Carver
|
|
Plymouth's No Place for Hate Committee Diversity Day Event
The Plymouth No Place for Hate Committee is hosting its annual Diversity Day event on October 9, 2011 from 11:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. The event will take place at the Plymouth Memorial State Park on Plymouth's waterfront and is for all ages, but especially for young people so that they can learn about fundamental rights and, in particular, the right not to be discriminated against.
During Diversity Day, these topics will be discussed in an interactive setting, with an exciting, culturally diverse stage program that includes musical acts such as: the Dunleavy Shaffer School of Irish Step Dance, Wampanoag Herring Pond River Singers & Drummers, Keith James and Potentials Unlimited, the Roddies, Celtic Band, Khakatay, Bridgewater State University West African Singers and the Wes James and Jimmy Correira band and more as well as interactive information stands and various workshops showing ways of tackling prejudices and stereotypes, which can lead to discrimination. Additionally, local dignitaries have been invited such as Senate President Therese Murray, State Representatives deMacedo and Calter as well as local selectmen.
The Plymouth No Place for Hate Committee, is a non-profit organization that empowers member towns to challenge discrimination, prejudice, racism, hate, anti-Semitism, and bigotry of all forms and to nurture the strengths of Diversity and the Oneness of Humanity - our Neighbors.
One of the committees primary goals is to be a resource to the Town of Plymouth and surrounding communities by providing support and education on diversity issues.
The event also features cultural food offerings, armored vehicle tours, kids fingerprinting with the Plymouth County Sheriff's Department. Additionally, the committee has partnered with Plymouth Public Schools on a Diversity Day Cultures of the World project which will be on display at the event.
The event has many sponsors such as Marty's Buick GMC of Kingston, Taylor Rental of Plymouth, Cartmell Funeral Home of Plymouth, the Waterfront Bar & Grille, the Cabby Shack of Plymouth, One Stop Painting of Plymouth and others.
|
Mount Pleasant Preschool News
October is Fire Safety Month at Mount Pleasant Preschool. Classes will learn about fire safety and emergencies that could happen in the home. Students will practice how and when to use 911, escape routes and a family meeting spot. Parents are encouraged to review personal information with their child: full name, address and phone number. Students and their parents will walk to the Sandwich Street Fire Station for a safety presentation and tour of the facility on Tuesday October 11th. The high point is always watching the firefighters slide down the pole. Look for pictures in next week's news !
|
|
Manomet Elementary News
This Tuesday, October 4th was the annual Day Made Better for Office Max. On this date, the representatives from the company came to 1,000 schools throughout the country to honor nominated teachers. Linda Horgan, a grade five teacher at Manomet, was surprised by approximately $1,000 in gifts for her classroom. Some of the items included a printer, digital camera, and new chair for her desk. In addition, Office Max donated a large box of other items to the remainder of the Manomet staff. Although many of the items were donated directly by Office Max, some were also donated to them by generous customers.
|
Cold Spring School News
Ted Scheu, Vermont poet and teacher, spent two days each at Hedge School and Cold Spring sharing his poetry and conducting workshops in each classroom. Students learned that writing poetry can be fun, and a great way to express your feelings. At both schools, the author in residence concluded his stay with a family night of poetry in which students had an opportunity to share some of the poems they wrote in class and for families to write poems together. A good time was had by all!
The third grade students at Cold Spring School have been learning about plants and life cycles. The students drew and wrote about each stage of the life cycle of bean plants, and get to see it in real life because they are growing their own! Next they'll be learning a song about all the cycles of the world.
Here is a class bulletin board with all of the beautiful drawings and writings about the lives of plants.
We are exploring why some grew and some did not! |
Hedge School News
Ted Scheu visits Hedge School
Ted Scheu visited Hedge School on Monday and Tuesday, October 3rd and 4th. He told students, "poetry is fun". Poetry doesn't follow the same rules that other writing does and poetry doesn't always have to rhyme. "Some of the best poems do not rhyme."
Ted started his visit with a whole school assembly where he talked about poetry and read a few of his poems, including "I Tickled My Teachers," "The Most Embarrassing 3-Letter Word to Ever Utter in a Quiet Classroom," and "The Rules for this Assembly."
During his visit Ted worked with all of the students writing poetry. He told the students to "pick exciting verbs, rather than boring ones". Swooping is more enticing to a reader than flying.
On Tuesday evening, Ted concluded his visit with almost 130 students and parents writing poetry together at the Family Night. There were many smiles on both parents' and students' faces.
|
PCIS News Rachel's Challenge On Wednesday, October 26th the students of PCIS will have the opportunity to participate in a internationally recognized program called Rachel's Challenge. We believe that the students of PCIS have the power to make a permanent, positive cultural change in their school and community by accepting the challenge of Rachel Scott to start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion. Rachel's Challenge is a powerful and impactful assembly and training program for middle school students. The students of PCIS will hear true stories from the life of Rachel Scott, the first victim of the Columbine shootings in 1999.
Students will experience her influential life through the eyes of her family and friends. This is done through a collection of emotional yet age-appropriate stories that introduce the students to a girl that knew that her actions could change the world. This story has impacted the lives of many people both students and adults. It encourages students to live a life of kindness and to make a difference in their school and community by treating others with respect and kindness. There will also be a community event that evening where parents and community members will be invited to participate in the challenge. The evening event is a way for parents to support and encourage our school and students to live lives that make a difference, to live lives that can continue to change the culture of the school and our community. By attending the community event with your child you would be adding to the legacy of Rachel Scott by showing support to the school and to the difference your student can make. Lives have been changed due to this program. Students have approached other students and asked forgiveness for the way they have acted. Stories have been told by parents who have seen a change in their child and how they act at home and this program has changed the culture of thousands of school communities. This program, with your support, can make a positive difference in the lives of our students and the community. If you have any questions about this program please feel free check out the Rachel's Challenge website at: www.rachelschallenge.org
|
|
Plymouth South Middle School News
BULLYING & HARASSMENT TRAINING
In order to fulfill Massachusetts state law and our commitment to a safe and positive school environment, the PSMS faculty participated in an in-service training on September 28th. The training was provided by M.A.R.C. (Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center) of Bridgewater State University. Teachers learned how to recognize the differences between conflict and bullying and how to intervene and report suspected behaviors. This training is part of our year-long program, which includes student presentations by M.A.R.C. in December and trained students from Plymouth South High School in the spring. Our new integrated comprehensive Health & Physical Education curriculum is also focusing on this important topic.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Recent election results have increased the size of our Student Council. We now have 79 representatives! Most homerooms have two to three reps that are responsible for attending monthly meetings and reporting back to their classmates. The purpose of Student Council is to empower students to plan and implement student activities; be involved in community service and develop leadership skills. Members must maintain good school attendance, passing grades, and be a good school citizen. The Council is under the direction of Mrs. Mitchell, Mrs. Whyte, Mrs. Strassel and Mr. Armstrong.
MORNING INTRAMURALS
Beginning on Monday, October 3rd, PSMS will be offering morning intramurals from 7:30 am to 8:00 am Monday through Friday in the gym. There will be a variety of activities and students must have sneakers to participate. Students who are dropped off early and choose not to participate must wait outside until the 8:07 A.M. bell as usual. Please take advantage of this fun opportunity.
ALO-ADVANCED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Over 100 students are participating in the ten-week after-school program this fall. The ALO program is designed to offer an enrichment curriculum that is intellectually challenging and stimulating. It develops critical-thinking, problem-solving and team building skills as well as independence and responsibility. The following courses are currently being offered:
- JAG TV
- Green & Gold Gazette
- The Science & Math of Sewing
- The Art of Cartooning
- Mathletes
Eligible students are determined by MCAS scores and students must submit an essay and participate in an interview with the advisors. Teacher recommendations are also part of the selection process. The Co-Directors are Mrs. Cumiskey and Mrs. Hough. Second semester courses will be offered beginning in January.
LEE DENIM DAY & BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
On Friday, October 7th and for the twelfth time in thirteen years, Mrs. Calhoun-Donelan has organized "Lee Denim Day", which is our way of raising funds for and awareness of breast cancer. Since our school opened in 1999, the staff of PSMS has celebrated Lee Denim Day and have raised over $6,500! With gratitude for the many breast cancer survivors among us, we donate to breast cancer research to help those currently in treatment and to mitigate the impact of the disease in the futures of our children. Teachers contribute $5.00 each as they wear their jeans and pink to school, and they are entered into a raffle for prizes donated by local merchants who generously contribute to the celebratory nature of the day.
This year we welcome donations from our PSMS families. Adults may be entered into the raffle for $5.00 and students for $1.00. (We are proud to report that a couple of students have already chosen to donate their "good duck bucks" to the cause!). Donations may be sent to the house office or main office and checks may be written to "Lee Denim Day". Please join us by sending in your donation by this Friday, and thank you for your support of this worthy cause.
CAMP WING FOR GRADE 7
The annual Grade 7 trip to Camp Wing in Duxbury took place on Monday and Tuesday, September 26 & 27. Students and staff took part in activities designed to encourage team building, problem-solving and positive social interactions among students. This experience enabled 7th graders to learn about themselves, gain confidence and become better acquainted with each other and their teachers outside of the school environment. The weather cooperated and a good time was had by all. We would like to thank the PTA for underwriting approximately 50% of the cost of this year's trip.
PTA ACTIVITIES
Starting October 7, 2011 and running through March 29, 2012, PSMS will have the opportunity to earn cash through the Stop & Shop A+ Bonus Bucks Program. By simply using your Stop & Shop card, you can generate cash for our school. In order to help us, you need to register. All you need to do is log on at www.StopandShop.com/aplus or dial 1-877-275-2758 to register over the phone. Please remember to list PSMS as your designated school and use ID # 05888. You can also send your card # into the main office and we can register for you. This is a wonderful and easy way to help our school. Thank you.
MORE ABOUT CAMP WING
Both seventh grade teams at PSMS attended Camp Wing in Duxbury for full day programs at the end of September. This is a fun day which promotes team building, problem solving, critical thinking, and personal accomplishment. The day is comprised of educationally based activities and challenges designed to teach participants important interpersonal skills such as listening, presenting, collaborating, decision making, critical thinking, problem solving, and community building. Activities include archery, canoeing, climbing wall, high ropes course, total team games, and various challenge course activities. PSMS seventh graders have attended Camp Wing since 2005.
|
| Plymouth North High School News
2011 MCAS Testing
Plymouth North High School was pleased to hear the results of 2011 MCAS testing. In the areas of ELA and Math, the school made Adequate Yearly Progress in both the aggregate grouping and all subgroups. The school also had six students that achieved a perfect score of 280 in the area of ELA. As a result, The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Accountability Status ranking for Plymouth North High School is "No Status".
PSAT Testing
On Tuesday, October 12th all Sophomores and Juniors will be given the PSAT test during regular school hours at Plymouth North. If there are any questions please contact the guidance department at 508-830-4410.
Class of 2012 "Shout's Out"
The Plymouth North Class of 2012 will represent North High Monday morning on WCVB Channel 5
at 5:10 AM and 6:10 AM during their "School Shout Out" segment.
HELP WANTED !
PNTA (Plymouth Nuclear Technology Alliance) NEWS
Shout out to all the engineers, scientists and business people in the Plymouth Community!
The Plymouth Schools Robotics Team, PNTA (Plymouth Nuclear Technology Alliance) is readying themselves to compete in the largest and most prestigious high school engineering and robotics competition in the country. This is the "FIRST" robotics competition (http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/frc)
....and we need your help.
We are currently looking for adult mentors with a desire to help some ambitious, hard-working kids try for the top prize in high school robotics competitions. If you are experienced in the following areas and want to participate in one of the coolest technological challenges ever, then please contact Mr. Bastoni at Plymouth North High School to arrange a familiarization tour and learn more about this awesome opportunity.
We Need Adult Community Members with the following Expertise:
- Business Management and Accounting
- Programming Microprocessors and Embedded Systems
- Machine Tool Fabrication
- Integrated Systems Engineering
- CAD Design
- Computer Animation
- Web Design and SQL Database Construction and Management
Here is what the President of the United States has to say about science and engineering: "If you win the N.C.A.A. championships, you come to the White House. Well, if you're a young person and you've produced the best experiment or design, the best hardware or software, you ought to be recognized for that achievement, too. Scientists and engineers ought to stand side by side with athletes and entertainers as role models, and here at the White House, we're going to lead by example." He added, "We're going to show young people how cool science can be." If you want to help reshape the American culture for the better, and you have the skill sets needed to compete on a very level 21st century playing field, then share what you have...we need your help.
Thank you, Mr. Bastoni
MBastoni@plymouth.k12.ma.us
|
|
Plymouth South High School News
Friday, Oct 7th is October fest!
Plymouth South football celebrated its first win of the season last Friday night defeating Hanover 28 - 6.
The Annual Sam Fry road race was a great success with 210 runners participating on Sunday, October 2. The best overall time was 19:45 from Plymouth South student Max Basset. Plymouth South Junior Brittany Reed was the fastest female competitor and 14th overall coming in at 24 minutes flat.
The school wide literacy initiative is moving onto its second year with the current focus being oral presentations. We hope to build upon last year's successes and continue our literacy quest.
Come support the Sophomore Student Council Thursday, October 13th from 5 - 8pm at the exit 5 Friendly's. A portion of your purchase goes to the sophomore student council.
The Dance Team walked in support of a cure for Alzhiemers that went through downtown Plymouth on Saturday 10/1.
|
Unified Arts Department News
The High School Band will perform at tonight's football game. Tomorrow they have a show at Dartmouth High School.
If you have an instrument to donate you may reach us at 508-830-4469 or drop them off at 117 Long Pond Road. Thank you.
|
News from the Social Studies Department
The social studies department wanted to recognize the 10th anniversary of 9/11 and sponsored a drive for supplies for our troops. Through the generous donations of students, families and staff at the two middle schools and two high schools, a large amount of goods were collected. The materials were brought to the VFW and working with Mr. Bob Davidson and members of the post, community volunteers, scouts and employees from local business, thirty boxes were packed and readied for shipment. The donation from the social studies department, along with other items donated, made it one of the largest drives to date. Other mailing will be done next month. The social studies department would like to thank everyone for their support and donations in making this drive a great success.
Plymouth North students help to pack boxes to be sent to troops overseas. |
Guidance Department News
SENIORS SAT registration dates and deadlines: Exam date: November 5, 2011 (at PSHS) regular registration deadline is October 7 and late registration deadline is October 21. Please go to www.collegeboard.com to register. Important announcement from Congressman William Keating: A Service Academy Information Night has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 5th, at Plymouth Community Intermediate School on Long Pond Rd. from 6:00-8:00 PM. Flyers for interested students are in guidance or contact Michael Jackman at 617-770-3700. Plymouth High Schools' Annual College Fair: Tuesday, October 18, 2011, 6:00-8:00 pm at PSHS. All Cape College Day College Fair: Wednesday, October 19, 3:30-5:30 at Barnstable High School. JUNIORS & SOPHOMORES PSAT 2011: The Preliminary Scholastic Achievement Test (PSAT) will be administered to all sophomores and juniors at PNHS and PSHS on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 11:00 a.m. This is free of charge and no registration is necessary. Students will receive an official PSAT Student Guide booklet prior to the test. Students should bring two #2 pencils and a calculator. |
News from the Mathematics Department
The American Math Challenge 2011
October 12th and 13th, 2011
www.americanmathchallenge.com
Students of all ages across America are invited to battle it out in an exciting online math challenge, competing live, in a safe, multi-player game environment. It's completely FREE and there are exciting prizes to be won!
Why participate?
* Students of all ages love it and can participate free!
* It's all about having fun with math and increasing numeracy.
* Great for all ability levels and ages.
* Simple to register and participate.
Register today as an Individual using the following link: http://www.mathletics.com/americanmathchallenge
Start practicing immediately, so you will be ready for the Competition on October 12th & 13th!
Practice Days (October 7-11): Students can begin practicing immediately!
Day 1 (October 12): Students answer adaptive online national curriculum questions.
Day 2 (October 13): Students answer as many correct questions as they can in 60-second mental arithmetic challenges--LIVE, against other students.
How will it work?
Students have full/free access to Mathletics an online interactive math resource with the opportunity to win prizes and a live leader board will show the scores - as they happen!
|
|
|
|
|
Gary E. Maestas, Ed.D Superintendent
Plymouth Public Schools
|
|
|
