Dear Families,   

Last night, we welcomed Eva Paddock, a Jewish Holocaust survivor, who had an amazing story to tell. We were so fortunate to hear from someone whose direct experiences are often only read about in the history books.  This event served as an opportunity for us to better understand and appreciate the profound impact the Holocaust has had on the world both past and present. This lesson is connected to Mrs. Sheer's 5th grade CSL Holocaust Stamps Project, in which students are learning the importance of respectful behavior, including acceptance, tolerance and diversity. It is important to remember that embracing the differences among others in our society enriches our own existence.  Along with our FRCS core values, this project demonstrates one way that our students learn that tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures and forms of expression.  Thank you Mrs. Sheer for bringing this enriching experience to our school community! 

What another GREAT MCAS Prep Rally at FRCS!  Last month, just prior to our students taking English Language Arts MCAS exams, we held our traditional academic rally.  Thank you to Ms. O'Callahan, Mr. Aronian, and Mr. Shaw for coordinating such an incredible event.   This year, they created challenging obstacles in our new gym, so students could participate in a number of ELA, Math and Science competitions!  We were also extremely fortunate to be joined by New England Patriot cornerback Rasi-I Dowling who shared with our students the preparation tips that have helped him perform at high levels.  Lastly, thank you to Mrs. Sepe, who helped get the gym rocking as our Falcon mascot!  Please click here for a brief video, courtesy of the New England Patriots.

This in from Mr. Griffin, our Director of Teaching and Learning: 

"I'd like to recognize some brilliant pedagogy displayed by Christine Davidson this week! Christine teaches a 9th grade math course designed to close some significant mathematics skills gaps. Her students have traditionally considered themselves "bad at math". Christine has turned that attitude on its head this year through some incredible work, an illustration of which occurred this week. Christine's students became 'student teachers' in preparation for their exams. As a class, they broke down the course into composite skills and self-identified peers who consider themselves 'master teachers' of each skill. Through a carousel model, students with difficultly in a given skill visited the master teachers for a lesson and practice on that skill and vice versa! The planning behind the instructional strategy was terrific and the result was highly engaged, student focused learning, with the instructor serving as a facilitator! It was a brilliant example of what we can accomplish at FRCS!" 

Thank you, Mr. Griffin, for sharing, and thank you Mrs. Davidson for your commitment to our students!  We have amazing faculty and staff!

On a similar note, I am excited to announce that one of our all-star teachers, Linda Morse, has been named as the new editor of the New England Journal of History, a publication distributed to members of the New England History Teachers Association.  "Founded in 1897, the nation's oldest association of teachers of history and social studies welcomes to its membership all persons interested in the field of education.  The NEHTA is a founding member of the National Council for the Social Studies and remains its senior affiliate.  The Journal is beginning its 8th decade, is published twice annually and offers historical research, reviews and methodological articles."  Congratulations, Mrs. Morse!

I am also pleased to announce Foxborough Regional Charter School has been chosen as the recipient of the 2012 Green Difference Award! 

Green Schools, a non-profit, charitable organization, recognizes outstanding GREEN work being done in our schools and communities.  Their mission is to create greener and healthier learning environments through education and awareness.  The Green Difference Awards recognize significant contributions to environmental education made by students, teachers, leaders, activists, and communities. 

Download and view our nomination which highlights the tremendous work we do here at FRCS.  On May 4, 2012, I will lead several students to the State House to accept this award on behalf of our school.