Professional Development Schedule 2014-2015

July 2014
Volume 2, Issue 4
Scituate Public Schools
The Superintendent’s Report
School Building
Committee Selects CoLocated 6-8 Middle
School Option – J.
McCarthy
Special Interest
Articles:
• The
Superintendent’s
Report 1-2
• Progress Report
3-6
• Professional
Development
7 -9
Individual
Highlights:
Schools
10-16
Departments
Following a seven-month
feasibility study to
determine the best option
to address the problems
with the Gates
Intermediate School, the
School Building
Committee, by a 14 – 1
vote, recommended the
co-located with the high
school option as the best
educational solution. The
School Committee
unanimously approved
this recommendation and
now it has been moved on
for approval by the
Massachusetts School
Building Authority (MSBA)
on July 30. Approval by
the MSBA is required to
move to the next phase,
schematic design.
17- 53
Equity and
Diversity
54
Special
Education 55-56
Technology
57-58
Fourteen different options
were studied on three
sites, the current Gates
site, the Ellis Estate site
on the corner of Route 3A
and Mann Lot Road, and
the high school campus.
These options included
both renovation/addition
models as well as new
construction. The option
selected involves a partial
renovation and addition to
the high school creating a
co-located campus effect.
Although the schools will
be physically connected,
they will be two distinct
and separate schools,
each with its own
administration and
educational program. The
only interaction between
middle and high school
students will be planned
and supervised.
The new building will be
designed for 710 students
in Grades 6 – 8 and will
support the teaching of
st
21 Century knowledge
and skills. Six
interdisciplinary teams,
two per grade level, will be
clustered around open
common areas to foster
teacher and student
collaboration. Classroom
spaces will be designed
and equipped to allow for
project-based learning, an
approach to teaching
whereby students gain
essential college and
career readiness
knowledge and skills by
working for an extended
period of time to
investigate and respond to
a complex question,
problem, or challenge.
Project-based learning is
rigorous, hands-on, and
highly engaging.
Standards-based
curriculum will be taught
through these projects,
however, unlike learning
today where subjects are
mostly taught in isolation,
subjects will be now
taught in a connected
interdisciplinary approach.
The new building will also
feature advantages for
Scituate High School and
the community. The new
middle school will
incorporate the current
undersized auditorium and
transform it into flexible
space for music and a
black box theatre. To
replace the existing
auditorium, a new 750seat auditorium connected
to the high school
gymnasium will allow for a
high quality performance
venue for school and
community productions,
as well as a large
gathering space for
community events such as
town meeting. The current
high school art wing will
be relocated to the area
formerly occupied by the
Early Childhood Center
(relocated to Wampatuck
School), creating not only
renovated space for art,
but also to bring the arts
closer to the academic
wings.
Scituate
Page 2 of 58
The Superintendent’s Report (Continued)
A third gymnasium will be
available for school and
community sports. Because
the school will be built on the
current high school field
hockey field, plans are in the
works to create a new multipurpose turf field to
accommodate sports such
as field hockey, softball,
soccer, and lacrosse.
Furthermore, an additional
140 parking spaces will be
created to accommodate
both school use and larger
evening events.
The co-located option does
bring challenges as well.
Putting two schools on one
campus will bring additional
traffic to the intersection of
3A and First Parish. Traffic
engineers are currently
studying this issue to
develop optimal traffic flow
for arrival and dismissal. The
current vernal pool on the
high school property restricts
building to no less than 125
feet from the wetland. This is
part of the reason why the
middle school had to
incorporate existing high
school space in order to
reduce the footprint of the
building. However, the
design plans to take
advantage of the vernal pool
by turning it into a nature’s
classroom to study the
ecosystems of wetlands.
There will be some
disruption to the high school
during construction, although
with proper planning and
phasing we expect this
disruption to be minimal.
Offices for the
Superintendent of Schools,
Special Education, and
Town Recreation will need
to be relocated. Finally,
the current Seaside
Playground will also need
to be relocated to make
room for middle school
parking.
The preferred option
recommendation is now in
the hands of the MSBA for
approval. Preliminary
feedback from them has
been very positive towards
our planning process and
the resulting design. Once
approved, the plan will be
further developed in the
schematic design phase
and the actual look and feel
of the building will begin to
emerge. A project scope
and budget will also be
developed so that
taxpayers will know the
exact cost to the town as
well as the amount of state
reimbursement. The MSBA
is expected to give final
approval of the project in
November, with town
approval in December or
January. If everything
moves according to this
schedule, construction will
begin in the summer/fall of
2015 with a proposed
school occupancy date of
September, 2017.
Page 3 of 58
The Assistant Superintendent’s Progress Report
April
MassCore requirements
have been reviewed with
principal Rob Wargo,
Tammy Rundle and Steve
DeProsse. The
Massachusetts High
School Program of
Studies (MassCore) is
intended to help our
state's high school
graduates arrive at college
or the workplace well
prepared and reduce the
number of students taking
remedial courses in
college. MassCore
recommends a
comprehensive set of
subject area courses and
units as well as other
learning opportunities to
complete before
graduating from high
school. The
recommended program of
studies includes: four
years of English, four
years of math, three years
of a lab-based science,
three years of history, two
years of the same foreign
language, one year of an
arts program and five
additional "core" courses
such as business
education, health, and/or
technology. MassCore
also includes additional
learning opportunities
including AP classes, dual
enrollment, a senior
project, online courses for
high school or college
credit, and service or
work-based learning.
Guidance Department
Head, Tammy Rundle
presented a detailed
overview in the spring of
2014 for the School
Committee.
Evaluators have helped to
compile a District
Determined Measures
matrix to investigate
areas of need and to help
inform our next steps.
Each educator will need a
minimum of two DDMs
under the educator
evaluation system. The
Evaluation Advisory Team
and the Evaluator Support
Team will work together to
help propose contract
language and protocols
for determining measures
to be used. On January
29, 2014 DESE released
Model Contract Language
for the Implementation of
the Student Impact Rating
and DDMs. This model
contract language
highlights two “critical
priorities for the
implementation of
DDMs. First, teachers
must be engaged as key
stakeholders in the
identification of DDMs.
Second, the process for
identifying DDMs should
be expeditious to position
districts to implement
DDMs beginning in the
2014-15 school year.”
The Literacy Program
Committee completed its
scheduled
demonstrations. The
committee has completed
program inventories and a
review of each program’s
features.
Kathy Elich (STE
Department Head 7-12)
and Heather Hughes
(STEM K-6 Coordinator)
collaborated with parents
and community partners
to help ensure the
sustainability of the
“Science Spectacular.”
The Science Spectacular
took place on April 10,
2014 from 4pm-7pm at
Scituate High School.
Exhibits included: HandsOn Activities • The Star
Lab • Student Scientific
Experiments • Science
Bee Competition •
Scituate Science
Symposium • Student
Discovery Talks • Student
Posters • Science
Scavenger Hunt
Local organizations such
as: Stellwagen Sanctuary
• Maritime & Irish Mossing
Museum • Scituate Water
Department • Gates
Environmental Club •
North & South Rivers
Watershed participated in
the community event.
Scituate
Page 4 of 58
Progress Report (Continued)
April 15, 2014 – Brad
Mingels held Capstone
Engineering Design
Presentations in the SHS
auditorium. The project
was “to design, build, test,
and demonstrate a craft
which can float for a
minimum of 10 seconds,
support 100 pounds, and
have a composite density
of no less than 10% less
than the density of water.
“Two project teams with
different approaches were
in the “build” part of the
project. Both teams have
used high level
Mathematics (calculus,
geometry, trigonometry,
and statistics),
Engineering (statics,
dynamics, and many
others), Physics, and
Communication
(documenting, speaking,
and writing) techniques in
their design activities and
put together some very
impre
May
The following grants were
officially awarded:
Title I – This is an
allocation increase by
$6277 which brings the
total for this grant to $95,
040. The increase was
used to support
professional development
training for co-teaching
teams at Gates.
Transition to Full day
Kindergarten (702) $10,000. This will be
used to support the
purchase of kindergarten
supplies, books and
playground equipment at
Wampatuck elementary
school.
Academic Support 632 $2400. The grant allowed
SPS to offer tutoring
sessions at the high
school level for MCAS
preparation in English,
Math and Science during
the academic year
Academic Support 625 $5,500. In the summer,
SPS will offer summer
transition and academic
support for incoming ninth
graders.
In collaboration with the
Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education
(ESE), the Department of
Early Education and Care
(EEC) is implementing the
Massachusetts
Kindergarten Entry
Assessment (MKEA)
system to support school
districts in using a
formative assessment tool
that measures growth and
learning across all
developmental domains
during the child’s
kindergarten year. The
domains include: Social
Emotional, Physical,
Language, Cognitive,
Literacy, Mathematics,
Science and Technology,
Social Sciences, and The
Arts. Teachers “use
evidence based formative
assessment in programs
for three core reasons.
First, formative
assessment provides
information for educators
to enhance individualize
teaching and learning for
children. Second,
educators can use the
information to support
parents to first understand
growth and development
and then provide
additional opportunities for
growth. Finally, programs
can use the information
from the assessments to
guide individual educator
development or program
wide development to
improve the growth
trajectory for children.”
Teaching Strategies
GOLD is an assessment
system for children from
birth through kindergarten
“designed to help
teachers: observe and
document children’s
development and learning
over time; support, guide,
and inform planning and
instruction; identify
children who might benefit
from special help,
screening, or further
evaluation; and report and
communicate with family
members and others.”
Based on feedback from
participants in Cohorts
One and Two, the
following changes have
been made for 2014-2015.
Page 5 of 58
Progress Report (Continued)
Individual districts can choose to ask their teachers to report on other domains if they choose.
 School districts in all Cohorts will focus on assessing children in full-day classrooms
 EEC will absorb the cost of online child licenses through 2015-2016.

While Cohort One and Two have currently been implementing the tool in all developmental areas, districts have
the option of focusing their efforts on the two developmental areas for 2014-2015. In the 2015-2016 school year,
districts will need to assess children across all developmental areas. Assessing children in half-day Kindergarten
programs will be optional for the reminder of the project.
Fifteen SPS educators attended a professional development opportunity for K–12 teachers at Inly School in
Scituate on the evening of April 9, 2014. “John Hunter holds talks and workshops around the world and has had
a growing following among educators since his 2011 TED Talk on his work with the World Peace Game. He was
voted the "most influential" TED Talk of the year.” Hunter's talk, "The Teachers and Schools Our Students Need
Us to Be," focused on the power of hands-on, experiential learning, as well as diversity and global awareness.
Although the title of his documentary is "World Peace and Other 4th-Grade Achievements," he has used the
World Peace Game and other lessons for middle and high school students, and his approach to teaching is
applicable to all levels, K–12.
Darlene Foley and John Mills working on a technology course proposal for Bridgewater State University. They
have reached out to departments to get content focus ideas. Congratulations to John Mills who received the
professional Learning Award from the Follett Aspen Institute.
June
The Professional Development Council supported the selection of a hybrid course consisting of three on campus
sessions and an online component for the “effective strategies” course that will required of beginning teachers
in their second SPS year. This course will satisfy the induction program requirements and state regulations.
Upon completion of the course, teachers will receive PDPs. They will receive a certificate of completion for the
state. This certificate is required for professional licensure.
The state board of elementary and secondary education in November 2013 endorsed a two-year “test drive” of
the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers, or PARCC. PARCC is aligned to the 2010
MA Curriculum Frameworks in ELA and Mathematics, which incorporate the Common Core State Standards.
PARCC has the potential to deliver clearer signals to schools, colleges, employers, and parents about students’
readiness for the next grade level and, in high school, readiness for college and careers.
This spring, approximately 81,000 students participated in the PARCC field test. “Next year (SY 2014-15), we will
move to an operational administration of PARCC. As part of the two-year pilot of PARCC, Commissioner Chester
is providing school districts the opportunity to choose whether to administer PARCC or MCAS in their own district
in spring 2015. A district must choose the same assessment for all of its schools. For districts selecting PARCC,
the superintendent will decide on a school-by-school basis whether to administer the online or paper versions of
the assessment. (Please note that all high school students through at least the class of 2018 must continue to
pass the grade 10 / high school MCAS tests in ELA, Mathematics, and Science and Technology/Engineering to
satisfy the state graduation requirement.)”
Scituate
Page 6 of 58
Progress Report (Continued)
SPS leaders participated in the DESE PARCC conference call. The webinar was designed to help districts determine
whether to participate in the June 2015 PARCC tests. On June 9, 2014 the school committee reviewed information
from DESE to help determine its course of action. The School Committee voted to participate in the June PARCC tests
rd
th
on June 23 By June 30 the Superintendent registered the decision.
SPS were required to submit its District-Determined Measures (DDMs) Implementation Plan by June 1. The plans
included a list of DDMs that SPS will implement during the 2014-15 school year.
Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) endorsement training for evaluators began on May 28, 2014. Principals/Assistant
Principals and Supervisors/ Directors who will or may supervise or evaluate a Core Academic Teacher of ELLs in the
2014-15 school year are required to take this course. “The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is
committed to academic success for all learners. The Sheltered English Instruction (SEI) Endorsement requirement is an
important initiative addressing proficiency gaps in the academic achievement of English language learners (ELLs) in our
schools.”
Literacy program review committee completed its investigation. Results were shared with the team members and
building principals. Committee members would prefer not to pilot a new literacy program next year. Elementary
teachers will focus on unpacking the literacy standards, determining what students need to know and be able to do at
each grade level. Educators will use the standards to create Big Ideas, Essential Questions and start the UbD process.
Calibration training began on June 9, 2014 for SPS evaluators. “The calibration of evaluators is one of the issues
presently facing Massachusetts districts as they continue their implementation of the new educator evaluation system.
The lack of inter- rater reliability of teacher performance ratings within and across schools is causing issues in districts.
Some administrators hold the teachers they evaluate to standards that are below that which is required in other schools.
This limits the level of improvement in student achievement. Some administrators hold teachers to unreasonably high
standards creating an inordinate amount of stress and discontent among the faculty. Inconsistent application can
undermine teacher moral and even lead to challenges to decisions to non-renew non-PTS teachers.”
Atlas Curriculum Mapping training began on June 24, 2014. Curriculum Coordinators and Department Heads will
learn how to map curriculum using this new software program.
On August 20, 21 and 22, 2014 Scituate Public Schools will host the Buck Institute’ s Project Based Learning
workshop, PBL 101.
PBL 101 is the Buck Institutes “foundational three-day (consecutive) onsite PBL workshop. It provides attendees with
the skills and knowledge needed to design, assess and manage a rigorous, relevant, and standards-based project. The
workshop, facilitated by one of BIE's expert National Faculty, is a balanced blend of direct instruction, video analysis,
hands-on work, resource sharing, and peer collaboration and feedback. Participants in our 101 workshop are actively
engaged in project design, with the expectation that every teacher or teaching team will generate a completed project
planning form that receives formative feedback from both participants and BIE National Faculty.” Thirty five
leaders/educators will participate in this professional development opportunity.
Page 7 of 58
Professional Development Schedule 2014-2015
PD/Training
Time Frame
Who?
Notes:
UbD /Curriculum
Development
/Alignment
Department
Teams
Summer 2014
Summer submissions
Mentor Training
3 days (6 hours)
SPS faculty
Ribas Associates
May 22, 2014
June 11, 2014
July 10, 2014
Voluntary
SEI Endorsement
Training for
Evaluators
5/28/14
6/4/14
6/11/14
7/8/14 (9 am -12 pm)
7/10/14 (9 am -12 pm)
DESE
facilitator
Per Kate Ciulla
Calibration
Training
June 10, 2014
All evaluators
Ribas Associates
Curriculum
Coordinators,
Dept. Heads,
Rubicon Atlas
June 24, 2014
July 9, 2014
Curriculum
Mapping
Site Review
June 24 @ 3 - 3:30 pm
(Jenkins library)
Core Training sessions:
Approx. 90 minutes
each
Location: SPED
conference room
July 7 @ 9 am
July 8 @ 1 pm
July 10 @ 1 pm
ADMN Retreat
Aug. 12-14
August 12 and 13
8:30 am -3:30 pm
Unit B, District
Leadership
Team and
Assistant
Principals
“Coaching for Learning Through a
Learning Target Theory of Action“ Connie Moss
*Mindfulness exercise
Greg Ranieri
Revisit SEE, Establish Goals for 2014-15
PBL
August 20-22
8:30-3:30
Location: Scituate
Maritime Center
Secondary
Principals and
APs, Dept.
Heads, and
Curriculum
Coordinators
PBL 101
Buck Institute
20 Faculty
(Gates –
priority)
Induction Program
Orientation – August
25 and August 26
New Teachers
J. Proulx, Coordinator, Mentors
Effective Skills
Course/DI  September 26
 January 29
 May 1
(Year 2 teachers)
Ribas
Evaluation
Orientation
August 27
SPS
Overview, goal setting
Teachers as
Scholars
(TAS)
2014-2015
Faculty
Subject specific offerings
3 on campus +online
Page 9 of 58

UBD

November 4 – Inservice Day
Elementary
UBD – Jenkins
Gymnasium
UBD with Kathy Zeiss
Secondary
Data Team
Training
Secondary
Data Teams
- SHS library
Data Teams with Deb Read (RBT)
“Using
Technology
in the 21st
Century
Classroom”
Data Team Training
Secondary Schools
All other
faculty –
location TBD
Darlene Foley and John Mills
Principals,
Department
Heads, 1-2 per
department
Deb Reed - RBT
6 full days
67.5 PDPs

November 4
November 5
December 1
January 12
February 9
March 10
Location – SHS library
RBT for data team protocols
MS – should
be a leader at
each grade
level
Darlene Foley and John Mills - Baseline
Edge
HS – Dept.
School wideeach grade or
content
represented
Train up to 45
All SPS
Introduction to PBL
November 10 – Inservice Day
Location – SHS
Auditorium
TBD
Staff who participated in PBL 101
Crisis Team
training
Location: Jenkins
Library
Elementary
Crisis Teams
Maria Trozzi
Open Circle – antibullying
elementary
curriculum
11/7/14, 11/10/14,
3/2/15, 4/17/15
Priority untrained
elementary
teachers
Open Circle
Cushing – Submitted by Principal Mary Ohrenberger
Cushing Summer Fun!
Summer vacation has arrived yet learning never ends. Summer reading and
math practice options are available on line for parents to access over the
summer to help maintain skills. After the success of Cushing School’s 10th
Annual Field Day on June 9th, Mr. Sawyer and I want to remind parents that
physical activity and a healthy life style are also important concepts and skills to
reinforce during summer break. Why not follow-up on some of the activities that
Mr. Sawyer designed for Field Day to help keep your child moving and active
during July and August?
H
With 230 Parent Volunteers and all Cushing Students on
deck, Field Day at Cushing allowed our students to move
through 23 stations to provide practice and yield lots of fun
with regard to movement, coordination, fine and gross motor
control and eye/hand coordination. Stamina and flexibility
were also a part of our Field Day. Throughout the school
year, Mr. Sawyer planned for and organized stations that all
of our students, Grades K-6, could enjoy. The physical
education stations that he chose were designed to provide
excitement, engagement, variety and a healthy dose of
physical activity! Most importantly, Cushing’s Field Day was
a day of celebration, designed to meet the needs of the
entire school community (students, staff, parents) through
the day.
During the summer months, don’t just exercise the brain; be sure to
exercise the body as well. You can easily mimic some of the stations you
saw at Cushing’s Field Day to accomplish this goal for lots of family fun.
Why not set up a water target shot challenge, a toxic water race or a
poisonous ball race with your children some warm summer night. Or maybe
a big ball relay race, egg and spoon race, or jumbo cup stacking is more
your speed. A high tower wooden block challenge, a “pass it down” foot
relay or a lawn dart throw is also great enjoyment for the family! A healthy
lifestyle is just as important as maintaining academic skills during the
summer months! On behalf of all at Cushing School, enjoy the summer and
exercise your mind and body to remain in tiptop condition! See you in
September!
Page 11 of 58
Hatherly – Submitted by Principal Mari-An Fitzmaurice
Hatherly School students are wrapping up a very productive school year! The new
Accelerated Reader (AR) program encouraged some fantastic accomplishments in
Reading and the data from spring reading assessments support our claim of great
gains in reading. The last week of school Mrs. Fitzmaurice celebrated those
twenty-six students in grades 4-6 who achieved 100 points or more in their AR
reading quizzes, ten students accumulated over 200-700 points. Nine grade 2 and
3 students achieved fifty points or more. Accelerated Reader helps motivate
students to want to read independently both inside and outside the classroom. AR
is a simple but effective program where teachers set point goals with students.
Students read a book and take a quiz from a bank of 160,000 quizzes. Students
get immediate feedback and are motivated when they see their progress.
Teachers can monitor student independent reading practice. Each term we have
awarded reading accomplishment certificates and AR key chains and bookmarks
for obtaining individual goals.
Just like any sport or instrument, reading performance improves with practice. SO
PLEASE be sure your children are reading this summer to provide that practice.
Richard Allington, a well renowned reading authority, demonstrated in study of sixth
graders that those who read 5 or more books over the summer improved in
reading. Those who read between 2 to 4 books showed mixed results. Those who
read less lost ground, often known as the dreaded “Summer Slide”. Both Mrs.
Sturges, Reading Specialist, and Mrs. Anne Lattinville-Hale, town librarian, have
visited classes to offer brief “teasers” to generate excitement about some great
summer reading books.
All students are required to read a minimum of two books this summer and
complete an active reader bookmarks. There are also many other optional
Reading Challenges created by our Reading Specialists, the Town Library,
Rockland Trust, Red Sox Foundation, Barnes & Noble and Dependable Cleaners.
I am sure there are many contests that students will enjoy and meet the minimum
of 5 books to prevent “Summer Slide.”
Not to forget Math…All students entering grades 2 to 6 will have the opportunity to
access FASTT Math over the summer to keep up their computation skills.
Enjoy your summer with Reading for pleasure! My “To Read” pile is stacked high,
so I look forward to reading all summer! Mrs. Fitzmaurice
Jenkins – Submitted by Principal Jen Arnold
This spring has been tremendously busy at Jenkins. Students have engaged in many cross curricular projects
to support their learning.
th
On Friday, June 6 fourth grade students created a living map of our country’s capitol right here in Scituate!
The students crafted models of our national monuments and presented them to the community in the Jenkins
Gym. The students also wrote and illustrated brochures with relevant information and facts about their
monument. Interested parents and family friends visited the displays where our students engaged the visitors
with their research. The students took away a deeper understanding of the significance of our national
monuments and enjoyed sharing their work with family and friends .
Second graders were immersed in a poetry unit of study. They have examined the rhythm and structure of
poetry, read poetry from a variety of authors, and written their own poems. Parents visited the classroom for a
Poetry Cafe to hear the students read aloud poems they have written.
Students showed their creative sides in art class. Each grade produced art work using different resources:
upcycled art creatures in grade 4; linear perspective in grade 6; symmetry and butterflies in grade 1; Worry
Warriors in grade 2; American gothic parodies in grade 3. Talk about cross-curricular connections!
Grade one wrapped up their animal unit for science/English Language Arts. They started the unit when their
classrooms were transformed into different habitats. Each classroom had a different theme. They studied
animals for about 6 weeks. To date, the students have learned about reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish,
mammals, and finally insects! Halfway through the unit, they walked to the harbor to see a National Geographic
Film, The Bear. Their culminating activity was a field trip to the beach. The students learned much while having
tremendous fun. It could not have happened without support from the awesome Jenkins parents.
Page 13 of 58
The fifth grade students enjoyed reading the novel "Seedfolks" by Paul Fleischman. Each pair of students
was assigned a character that they wrote sequels for, thus creating two class books. They were split into two
novel groups to collaborate and revise their sequels to complete a common theme throughout their books. The
students shared the sequels with their class. As a culminating activity, with the help of parent volunteers, all
fifth grade classes worked in the Jenkins Garden and shared poetry they had written about the garden. They
were treated to a slideshow and presentation by Jon Belber from Holly Hill Farm during lunch. The sequels will
be sent to the author Paul Fleischman in hopes of a return letter!
Kindergartners spent lots of class time in the school garden for some outdoor classroom time to talk about
plant life cycles and to also plant seeds. Kindergarten students culminated their farm research project by
presenting a play in their classrooms.
On Wednesday, June 11 the 16th annual Jenkins 6th Grade Research Fair took place. The Research Fair
was the culmination of a four month step by step process of researching an ancient civilization of the student's
choice. Mr. O'Sullivan, Mrs. Richards, Mrs. Wilson and Mr. Poirier were extremely pleased and proud of the
work the students put forth during the entire process. More importantly, the students were proud of their
accomplishment as demonstrated by the 57 displays situated around the Jenkins gymnasium. Upon entering
into the gym, the student's energy and enthusiasm was immediately evident. The project included the creation
of note cards, bibliography cards, work cited, outlines, essays, oral presentation and the Research Fair
itself. Each student, whether working in a small group or individually, presented a poster citing information on
their topic's geographic location with a map display, time frame or time line, achievements in math and science
as well as the civilization’s greatest legacies. The students also exhibited an artifact as well. The students
represented themselves well during the course of the project. The students now know future projects will be
less formidable due to the experience gained through the completion of this long term project. The day was a
smashing success and the more than one hundred (really!) attendees included Jenkins students, teachers,
parents, grandparents and family friends, were impressed with this year's fair. Jenkins students can do
anything!
Third grade students have been working in the
Jenkins Garden all year. The theme of the unit
was "What happens in a community
garden?" Students learned about composting
and dependent relationships between animals,
plants, and people through their trip to Holly Hill
Farm. Here at Jenkins they planted and cared
for tomato plants and other seedlings in
preparation for the annual plant sale, which
raised over $400. This money will help fund
next year's third grade garden program. They
also planted sugar snap peas and have been
graphing the growth and using their journal to
observe the development of the plants. This
overall experience supports classroom work on
watching plants go through their life cycle from
seed to seed.
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Wampatuck – Submitted by Principal Linda Whitney
“Stop the summer slide”
day at Wampatuck!
Did you know that students quickly lose reading skills over the
summer? Failing to exercise their reading muscles can cause
students up to two months’ worth of skill level! This year,
Wampatuck students promised to work hard to avoid the “summer
slide” by reading throughout the months of July and August. On
Thursday, May 29, the Wampatuck community came together for a
school-wide pep rally to brainstorm ways to make summer reading
fun. Student submissions to the Stop the Summer Slide photo
contest were featured in a slide show demonstrating creative places
to read. The Wampatuck PTO provided certificates to The Front
Street Book Shop to student winners in every grade-level. Members
of the Scituate High School Class of 2014 joined the rally and
shared favorite book memories before visiting classrooms for read
aloud to students. Later that day, Scituate Town librarians Ann
Lattinville and Dina Brasseur discussed the many library programs
scheduled throughout the summer months and offered book
suggestions for every taste and grade level.
All elementary students in Scituate are required to complete two
active bookmarks, available on the Scituate Public School’s
website, to fulfill their summer reading requirement. At Wampatuck,
students also are invited to feature their favorite summer reading
books in presentations at the “We Beat the Summer Slide” literacy
fair in September.
Reading skills are not the only academic area vulnerable to the
summer slide. Math practice is equally important! Mathematical
proficiency is dependent on fluency with basic facts so that attention
and memory are available for reasoning. Studies have shown that
FASTT MATH practice will help develop automatic recall of basic
facts. Wampatuck recommends students use FASTT MATH and
FRACTION NATION (Gr. 5) three times a week at home for
optional – but important -- summer work.
Wampatuck looks forward to everyone returning in September
ready to pick up learning where we left off! Best wishes for a
fabulous and slide-free summer!
Gates – Submitted by Sarah Shannon
It’s amazing how quickly ten months can go. It feels like our students just
entered Gates, ready for an exciting new year. I hope their year was all they
wished for. Most recently, we hope that many of you had the opportunity to
attend some of our public events that showcase our students. This spring our
art students were featured at the South Shore Art Center in Cohasset, in a
Gates Juried Art Show at the Maritime Center and at Spring for the Arts at
Scituate High School. Our music students also participated in Spring for the
Arts, as well as the Gates Spring Concert, Songwriter’s Night, and the Gates
Music Fest. Every May, our band and chorus travel to Canobie Lake Park for
a music festival and competition. Under the direction of Mr. Greg Lessard,
this year’s band was awarded the Gold Medal and under the direction of Ms.
Nadia Swartz, our chorus was awarded the Platinum Medal. The talent of the
students at Gates is always amazing; it was wonderful to see them be
recognized in such a special way. Congratulations to all of our band and
chorus students and to Mr. Lessard and Ms. Swartz.
As we move into summer, we recommend that parents review the summer
work requirements for Gates and Scituate High School. All students are
expected to participate in a summer reading program. There is also a
summer packet in the World Languages and in math. The details of the
summer work can be found on the Gates and SHS websites, respectively. We
strongly encourage relaxation and fun, but also want to set your child up for a
successful start to the 2014 – 2015 school year.
As the 2013 – 2014 school year winds down, we are sad to see our eighth
graders leave us but know that this wonderful group of students will have
bright futures. We congratulate them as they move on to the next step in their
journey and send them off with best wishes. The Gates office is open
throughout the summer. Please do not hesitate to reach out if there’s
anything we can do to help you prepare for next year. Enjoy the summer and
we’ll see you in September!
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Fine & Performing Arts Photo Album Edition
Dawn Benski, Department Head
Spring for the Arts 2014
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The Fine and Performing Arts Department hosted another fabulous ‘Spring for the Arts’ event on May 15 .
There was a huge turnout and warm weather. Artwork from students K-12 was displayed. There were musical
performances by students of all levels.
Gates Chorus students perform at SFA 2014.
Artwork by Lydia Sylva, Grade 8
(Photo courtesy of A. Bartlett)
Gates Band students perform at SFA 2014.
Attendees admire artwork by Gates and SHS students
A wall of photography captures much attention
Artwork by Kiley Collins, Grade 7
(Photo courtesy of A. Bartlett)
Scenes from the Small Gym during Spring for the Arts, 2014
Cushing Art by Tayten T. Grade 1 , Wampatuck Art by Ethan D. Grade 5, and Hatherly Art by Logan P. Grade 4
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Display of Jenkins Artwork
News in the Music Program
The Scituate High School Chorus shown performing at the 2014 SHS Graduation Ceremony.
The Scituate High School Band performs at Disney World during an early May field trip.
(Photo courtesy of S. Tucker)
Gates:
Canobie Lake Performance: The Gates Chorus received a platinum medal (with a nearly impossible score of 97
out of 100) at the Canobie Lake Competition! It is very difficult to earn the highest rating! The judges were very
impressed. The Band also did very well and received a Gold medal!
Elementary Spring Concerts:
Cushing Spring Concert- May 28, 2014
Left: Fifth and Sixth Grade chorus belt out their rendition of the late Pete Seeger’s “Turn, Turn, Turn” Right:
Instrumental soloists jam with a Blues Improvisation that thrilled the audience.
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Hatherly Spring Concert- May 29, 2014
Below: Guitar Soloists perform “Sweet Home Alabama” with the Fifth & Sixth Grade Chorus
Jenkins In-School Spring Concert- June 5, 2014
Left: Instrumentalists play the waltz while classmates danced the waltz in pairs.
Right: Fourth grade chorus sings for schoolmates who clap along spiritedly.
Wampatuck In-School Spring Concert- June 11, 2014
Left: The Wampatuck Band practices in early June for the upcoming concert to feature “Swinging the Blues”.
Right: Third graders were thrilled to perform favorites such as “Hot Cross Buns” on the recorders for their
schoolmates.
Scituate Friends of Music welcomes inquiries from parties interested in becoming new members and
volunteers!
We support our wonderful music program, teachers and students, in grades K-12, by
purchasing needed instruments, sheet music and technology. Scituate Friends of Music (SFM) is made up of
parents, teachers, students, and community members who support quality music programming in the SPS.
We chaperone field trips, volunteer for musical events and exchange concerts,
as well as handle publicity and fundraising to benefit all music students. Come to learn more, and get involved!
Check us out on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scituate-Friends-of-Music/150532968855
Scituate Friends of Music is an nonprofit (501(c)(3)) organization that supports ALL of the Scituate Public
School Music Programs in Grades K-12.
You can make a donation to support SFM (via PayPal) from our website, www.scituatemusic.org.
Thank you for supporting music in the Scituate Schools K-12!
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News in the Art Program
SHS:
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Winners from the 58th Annual Second Parish Art Show in Hingham this past May, 2014: Anna Maguire, Addison
Silva, Mithchell Gonzales, Evan Flaherty, Teachers: Stacey Hendrickson and Julie Hickey)
Collaborative Project involving Art and Engineering students: engineering students in Brad Mingel's class
engineered a slotted sign (to replace the wind-damaged vinyl sign) and Ms. Julie Hickey’s art students designed
and painted the graphics (one side for the Adventure Course, the other to read, "Go Sailors")
The Scituate Visual Art Program website is up and running. View amazing artwork at:
www.scituatehighart.com CHECK IT OUT!!!!!!
As reported by teacher Ms. Hickey: “The Memory Project: is a unique initiative in which art students across the
country volunteer to create portraits for children and teens around the world who have been neglected, orphaned,
or disadvantaged. Given that kids in such situations tend to have few personal keepsakes, the Memory Project
aims to provide these children with special memories that capture a piece of their childhood and help the kids see
themselves as a work of art. Eleven SHS students participated.” You may find the work on the Scituate High art
website noted above.
Eleventh Grader Erika Badger’s drawing for the Memory Project
GATES:
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Ms. Julie Gold’s 8 Graders had the opportunity to draw from observation through the eyes of the Cubist Masters; Pablo
Picasso, Georges Braque, and Juan Gris. While learning how to use light, shadow, and technique to make objects appear
three dimensional and learning new tools to allow for drawing objects to scale, they learned about the concept of analytic
cubism or combining different views of a single object in to one drawing. (Photos courtesy of J.Gold)
Business Department Year in Review
Respectfully Submitted by Gregory Ranieri and Ross Maki
During this past year, there were many exciting events that took place within the SHS Business Department. New
course offerings were rolled out with strong success, like Entertainment & Event Marketing and Video Game Creation.
Additionally, students participated in many engaging classroom extension activities.
The Sports Marketing classes had the opportunity to travel to Gillette Stadium to not only tour the facility and Patriot
Place, but present their carefully crafted sports marketing business plans to members of the Marketing department.
Prior to the trip, students were responsible for creating a business plan on some type of business or event that is not
currently being offered at Gillette and present their plan to a representative from the marketing department at Gillette
and Patriot Place. Students were given real feedback on both their business plan and their ability to present and sell
their idea. The students were also given the opportunity to be the studio audience for the taping of “Totally Patriots”
and interview two of the players, Sealver Siglia and Jamie Collins. The trip to Gillette Stadium is a worthy and
memorable experience for students. The chance to take what they are learning in the classroom and apply these
career-readiness skills into a real world business setting is truly a unique opportunity. Additionally, they got behind the
scenes insight on how a sports and entertainment show is produced and taped. The experience truly brings to life the
complete experience of what a Sports Marketing Career might be like.
The Investing and Personal Finance class participated in the Stock Market Game Challenge in the fall and performed
exceptionally well. Members of the class selected a business partner to work with throughout the 3-month challenge
where they were given $100,000 in a simulated online portfolio to invest in companies from the New York Stock
Exchange and the NASDAQ Stock Exchange. The teams were challenged with trying to achieve the highest rate of
return not only within the classroom, but against other teams across the state by applying the concepts learned in
class to make wise investing decisions. This year’s class had some outstanding results. The class average return on
investment was approximately $8,500 over the 3-month competition. Several teams finished in the top 100 across the
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state. Business partners, Noma Okundaye and Matt Way finished 15 overall out of over 900 teams in the state with a
$15,000 return on investment! Junior student Mark Hernandez felt the experience was, “extremely helpful to see the
real life experience of investing. Being responsible for making safe and diversified investment decisions definitely
prepared me for my financial future.”
In the spring, a representative from Johnson and Wales came to speak with students from the Restaurant & Resort
Management and Entertainment and Event Marketing classes. In addition, Mrs. Hebert’s Family and Consumer
Science classes also attended and learned more about future business career opportunities, that an institution such as
Johnson and Wales can offer. This cross-curricular event exposed the students to the many majors offered by the
University that directly relate to the classes they are currently enrolled in. This exposure helped many students see
the potential for what they are learning at SHS, to help prepare them be college, career and life ready in the future.
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As a result of the strong performance in the Stock Market Game Challenge, the Investing and Personal Finance class
was selected to represent Congressman Stephen Lynch in the Capitol Hill Challenge, which was a nationwide
investment challenge. For the Capitol Hill Challenge, students earned an impressive return on investment of over
$5,000. Based on their participation, Congressman Stephen Lynch came to SHS to visit with the students Investing
and Personal Finance class as well as a U.S. Government class. Matt Murray, Noma Okundaye, Marisa Stewart,
and Nina Pillsbury presented to the congressman their team’s investment portfolios and strategies used throughout
the Capitol Hill Challenge to earn the greatest possible return on their investments. The theme and consistent
message from the student presenters was the importance of diversification within your portfolio and to ensure proper
research is performed prior to investing. Congressman Lynch was very impressed with the presentation and the
strategies the students had developed throughout the challenge. The Congressman also echoed the importance of
researching and diversifying your portfolio. Congressman Lynch commended the students from the Investing and
Personal Finance class for taking the opportunity to prepare themselves for their financial future and to be fiscally
responsible young adults. While at SHS, Congressman Lynch shared with students his background in politics and
some of his day-to-day responsibilities. Several of the students that attended the presentation had an opportunity to
ask various questions relating to such topics as the crisis in Ukraine, usage of Drones, and how to increase voter
turnout in young adults. The opportunity to represent Congressman Lynch was a worthy and engaging chance to
speak with an elected government official.
Congressman Lynch appreciated the efforts of the SHS Investing and Personal Finance class
Twenty of our female business students were invited this year to participate in the Leadership in Action Workshop
sponsored by the South Shore Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Connection. The purpose of the
workshop is to introduce female high school students to career and leadership opportunities through the shared
experiences of both the Women’s Business Connection members and other south shore women business
leaders. The students participated in activities and discussion on various types of leadership skills such as setting
priorities, time management strategies, job interviewing best practices, ways to manage stress, and creating an
online persona with social media. The keynote speaker for the event was Olympic Gold Medalist Aly Raisman,
who also shared her experiences from both the Olympics and her role in different business ventures.
Torie O'Toole, Emily Podurgiel, Aly Raisman, Madison Doody
at the Leadership In Action Workshop
The SHS DECA membership had another outstanding year. Membership enrollment increased by 24% over last
year with 55 total members. DECA, which represents the organization of the Distributive Educational Clubs of
America, is a business educational oriented club that is offered to those students who are enrolled in a business
course at SHS where they gain experience in such skill set areas as effective job interviewing skills, strategic
problem solving skills, improved public speaking skills, and networking and team building skills, all of which are
vital to students entering into the college or career environment. Members of this year’s DECA Club competed in
the Region One District Competition at the Seacrest Resort in Falmouth where they
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showcased their talents against 12 other high schools with an opportunity to then qualify for the state and
international competition. Students were assessed in four areas of the competitive business category they
enrolled in. The assessments included two, 100 question exams, one being a general marketing exam and the
other being an exam focused on the content within their respective event. The other assessments were
performance based and included problem-solving a business role play scenario and effectiveness during a mock
job interview. Nearly all the students who competed scored above the national average in their respective event.
Matthew Murray, Chris Adams, Joshua Beck, Christine Cutting, Matthew DelGrosso, Neil MacPherson, Cam
Foley, and Madison Reid all qualified for the state competition. Matt Murray received top recognition as he
finished second overall with his event.
SHS DECA students celebrating successes
SHS School to Career Internship students gained valuable real-world work experience and explored possible
career choices through this year’s internship placements. SHS would like to thank the following organizations for
their support by graciously mentoring SHS interns: Conway Real Estate, Scituate DPW Department, Driftway Auto,
Teachers at Cushing, Hatherly, Jenkins and Wampatuck Elementary Schools, Teachers at Gates Intermediate
School, Kennedy’s Country Gardens, Kukstis Woodcarving, Scituate Police Department, Satuit Hardware, SPS
Business/Finance Office, Scituate Recreation Department and Scituate Town Library. In some cases, student
placements have worked out so well that they have led to paid employment opportunities after the internship
period. If you own or work for a local area business and would like to discuss the possibility of having an SHS
intern at your workplace, please contact Greg Ranieri, the SHS School To Career Coordinator, at
[email protected].
ELA (7-12) – Submitted by Ryan Lynch, Department Head
Gates Intermediate School Summer
Reading:
Senior Awards in English and
underclass awards
For students entering grades 7 and 8, this year’s
summer reading assignment asks students to read
two texts that focus on the themes of social
leadership or overcoming obstacles. The Gates
literacy specialist, Maureen Sullivan, also has set
up a wiki to help students select texts. More details
on the Gates summer reading assignment can be
found at
http://gatessummerreading.wikispaces.com/ .
At the Scituate High School Senior
Awards Night, three seniors were
recognized for outstanding
achievement in English. John “Jack”
Duff was recognized as thoughtful and
original writer and thinker; Kimberly
Whitney was praised for her work ethic
and dedication to Scituate High
School’s School newspaper, The
Scituation; Mitchell Loring was
celebrated as a classmate who brings
the best out of his peers through his
example and leadership in class.
Scituate High School Summer Reading Book
Groups:
Scituate High School is entering its fourth year of the
successful and engaging “book group” format for summer
reading. At SHS, faculty and students form book groups in
September to discuss books they have selected to read over
the summer. This program works well because students are
empowered to read books that appeal to them, and students
and teachers can connect around a text of common
interest. We also have refined our model by recruiting students
to work with teacher to lead the book groups-- a change which
will help upperclassmen to take a leadership role in working
with students who are newer to the high school. This spring,
students chose their summer reading choice from twenty
nominated titles, from Quiet: The Power of Introverts to
Looking for Alaska by John Green. The entire list can be found
at http://shsbookgroups2014.wikispaces.com/
On June 17, the following students
also received awards for their
achievement, effort, and creativity in
their English classes: Erin Crowell;
Lauren Shea; Ashley Brown; Amanda
Cobbett; Paul Gunn; Dominic Vasco;
Courtney Killion; and Elliot McNeilly.
Page 29 of 58
Literacy
Stacey Pattou-Hammond-K-6 Literacy Curriculum Coordinator
What is the Summer Slide?
Did you know that students can lose momentum in their literacy skills gained this year? Be sure to avoid this
loss of learning by reading a great book! Whether you read with your child or your child reads independently,
reading for enjoyment is essential to promoting the life-long joy that can come from reading a great book.
Students make great strides in reading and writing during the school year, and we encourage all students to read
over the summer to keep their academic skills sharp. Summer is a great time for students to explore individual
interests and pursue reading for their personal enjoyment.
The schools have partnered with the Scituate Town Library to offer a rich variety of summer reading books.
During the summer, the library has a special section for Scituate Public Schools’ Summer reading.
Ann Lattinville, Head of Youth Services, and Dina Brasseur, Head of Teen Services, are great resources to help
students find engaging books. [email protected] and [email protected]
Summer Reading Philosophy
Students become stronger readers by reading over the summer while building comprehension and fluency skills.
Research shows that self-selected independent reading builds fluency and increases vocabulary.
Students read more when they choose books at their reading level that interest them.
Students should be held accountable for completing summer reading by completing the Active Reading
Bookmarks.
Active Reading Bookmarks help students to question as they read which supports their comprehension skills.
Scituate Summer Reading Requirements:
· Entering Pre-K, K, and Grade 1: Parents and students are encouraged to read together to develop early
literacy skills. Thirty minutes per day is a good goal.
· Entering Grades 2-6: Students are required to read two books of their choice over the summer. For each
book that they read, students must complete an Active Reading Bookmark.
Grades 2 and 3 Active Reading Bookmark Assignment
Grades 4-6 Active Reading Bookmark Assignment
The suggested summer reading lists and the bookmarks can be found at:
http://scituate.k12.ma.us/index.php/district-information/district-news-archive
:
Accelerated Reader
Students are welcome to continue their work on Accelerated Reader (AR) over the summer by choosing books
that are included in the AR program.
Students will be permitted to take quizzes at the Scituate Town Library and continue to accumulate points over
the summer. Books with available quizzes can be found on the AR web site at: www.arbookfind.com
Check with your school about incentive prizes that may be offered for student achievement.
Happy Summer Reading!!
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Counseling – Submitted by T. Rundle, Department Head
K-12 SCHOOL COUNSELORS UNPACK THE COUNSELING STANDARDS
This year the K-12 School Counseling department focused their professional development on identifying the
most important knowledge and skill areas for each grade level as defined by the American School Counselor
Association (ASCA). The first step in this process was the development of a curriculum map to assess what
counseling programs and services were currently being implemented at each grade level. This was followed
by a School Counseling Skills Survey which categorized the academic, emotional/social/personal, and
transition/college and career readiness skills students needed for academic success as well as obstacles
impeding academic success at each grade level. Results from this survey initiated the professional dialogue
among the K-12 School Counselors and subsequent definition of the Scituate Public Schools - School
Counseling Standards. Throughout the process, counselors displayed a high level of collegiality and
collaboration and utilized their grade-level expertise to work together. They were able to identify trends and
patterns that impede student academic success and share their perspectives about what they believed
needed to be taught at each grade level. This process enabled the staff to develop stronger working
relationships with one another. Having the dedicated time to collaborate, share information about students
and families, and synthesize ways to promote student academic success is critical. Providing opportunities
for school counselors system-wide to collaborate is a challenge, due to the varying early release schedules
and that counselors are expected to be in their buildings throughout the school day to handle student
issues/crises that may arise. Delivering the school counseling curriculum to all students continues to be a
challenge at the elementary level because of the shortage of counselors. At Scituate High School, the
building schedule, as it exists currently, does not allow for counselors to have consistent access to students.
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While the middle school counselors effectively deliver school counseling curriculum in both 7 and 8 grades,
not all students are able to participate, (because of their individual student schedule and needs), and the
ability to teach lessons in a sequential manner throughout the academic year is hindered by the current
trimester schedule.
More importantly, the Personal/Social Domains at all levels require immediate attention, particularly in the
elementary grades. Social/emotional learning involves the processes of developing competencies in selfawareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship building and responsible decision-making.
Counselors spend the majority of their counseling efforts in supporting these students who cannot attend to
these skills independently. Deficits in these basic skills impede our students’ ability to perform in the
classroom. Yet, if we take a pro-active approach to providing all students the opportunities to learn and
master these requisite skills at targeted grade levels as a first-tier intervention strategy, then the counselors
will be able to provide second and third tier supports for those high-risk students.
Looking ahead to next year, the School Counseling department will continue to explore ways to tackle these
issues and to creatively provide opportunities to teach these skills to our students, given our
challenges/restraints as noted above. In addition, we will continue to strengthen and deliver the School
Counseling curriculum. We anticipate that the district’s pilot of the curriculum mapping software will allow us
to submit a complete scope and sequence with essential questions for each grade. Finally, professional
development for counselors in instructional strategies, as well as the UbD process will be essential
components of meeting these goals.
# of Advanced Placement Exams - SHS 5 Year Trends
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS REACH
ALL TIME HIGH
Scituate High School saw a dramatic increase in the
number of Advanced Placement exams that were
administered this year. There were a total of 504
Advanced Placement exams, up from 391 exams last
year. Over the past year years, we have increased
student participation by 45%. Some of the increase this
year has been affected by the move of Advanced
Placement English Language from senior year to junior
year. AP English Language was offered both at grade
11 and at grade 12 this year as part of the transition. (For
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the 2014-2015 school year, this course will be an 11
grade course offering only). None the less, more SHS
students are choosing the academic challenges we are
providing.
2013-2014 504 exams
2012-2013 391 exams
2011-2012 364 exams
2010-2011 284 exams
2009-2010 230 exams
0
100 200 300 400 500 600
BREAKING FREE FROM DEPRESSION – RESULTS
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Through the energies and commitment of Nancy Driscoll, 8 Grade School Counselor, all students in the 8 grade
participated in the “Breaking Free from Depression” program this year. This curriculum, developed at Boston Children’s
Hospital, aims to: increase adolescents’ awareness about depression; teach them how to recognize it in themselves and in
their friends; and give them strategies for finding help. Results from the program were quite positive. Students
demonstrated increased knowledge about depression and suicide after participating in the Break Free From Depression
curriculum. Overall, students reported high levels of satisfaction with the curriculum. Students also showed an increase in
their confidence to seek help for themselves and their peers. Here is what two students reported about the program:
“Breaking Free really helped me understand what it is like to go through depression. It also helped me learn how to help
my friends with depression." “ I think that is helped me be a lot stronger while talking to my mom. It was easier to just say ‘I
have been feeling sad lately and I don't know why’ because I knew if I didn't talk to my mom it would all be stuck in my
head. I also showed her a sheet of writing that I wrote which had everything going on. From my friends not being in any of
my classes to just feeling sad. It helped me to tell someone.” As a result of the program’s success, Breaking Free from
Depression will become an expected and integral part of the social/emotional School Counseling curriculum moving
forward.
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COUNSELING SUPPORT GROUPS
Throughout the district, the School Counselors facilitate a number of group counseling opportunities for students. This
year, Ms. Nathan and Ms. Riley, Jenkins School Counselors, facilitated a parent and student support group, entitled
“Loved Ones Raising Loved Ones,” which targeted grandparents or relatives who are raising loved ones when the
biological parents are not able to. The preface of the group stemmed from the many children in Scituate who are being
raised by family members other than their biological parents. This support group was designed to address the issues that
are common for family members raising other family member's children and for children being raised by loved ones other
than their parents. Support groups are a wonderful way to be with others who are in a similar situation. This group met
once a month from October 2013 to May of 2014. Ms. Nathan facilitated the adult group and discussions included:
extended family dynamics, addiction, finances, legal issues of guardianship, anger and frustration with family members,
and love for the children they are raising. Ms. Riley facilitated the counseling group with the children, which included a
number of student-centered crafts and activities. Through their skillful use of clinical practices, Ms. Nathan and Ms. Riley
enabled both caregivers and children to acquire knowledge, skills and support to their unique caregiving challenges.
Plans are underway to continue this group next year and if you would like more information on this group, please contact
Ms. Nathan at [email protected] or Ms. Riley at [email protected].
Throughout the year, elementary school counselors have successfully facilitated a variety of other student support groups
including: a group for siblings of students with significant special needs, boys’ friendship groups, and girls’ friendship
groups, separated and divorced parents support group, values clarification, social skill development, and test anxiety
groups. The “Loved Ones Raising Loved Ones” and “Guiding Good Choices” were parent/caregiver focused support
groups.
At the high school, Ms. Lopes ran a social skills group for female students in the Life Skills program and coordinated the
two groups in partnership with the Caron Treatment Facility groups for students at risk of substance abuse and students
who have substance abusing loved ones. Ms. Mitchell led the fall New Student Welcome group and luncheon to help
transfer students transition to Scituate High School. Mr. Cooney ran a group for students needing additional support with
the college application process. Ms. Mohr initiated a grief support group for students who experienced the loss of an
immediate family member.
In addition, the Gates School Counselors offer a number of counseling support groups to students, which are available to
all students:
Academic Improvement Group: This group is designed for regular education students who are struggling academically
(Ds and Fs). Students will learn skills in time management, organization, study skills based on their particular learning
style, goal setting and accountability. A parent commitment is required of this group.
Make a Difference: This group is designed to help girls recognize the positive social contributions they can make to their
community. Through this process students will gain understanding about their own personal strengths, how to promote
healthy, positive relationships amongst their peers and with adults, and how their own behavior influences the larger
community.
Take Charge of Anxiety: Don’t let anxiety take control of you. Learn strategies to become the boss of your anxiety.
Based on a cognitive behavioral therapy, students will learn to recognize their own symptoms of anxiety and develop
coping strategies to change how they think and respond.
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Depression Support Group: This group is offered to 8 graders as a booster to the Boston Children’s Hospital curriculum
Break Free From Depression that is used with all students in their counseling classes. Activities focus on building
students’ coping skills. Although these skills are often components of treatment for people struggling with mood
disorders, the skills are helpful for everyone. The group supports the Counseling Department’s desire to increase
awareness of depression and decrease the stigma related to mental illness.
Stress Management: Students will learn to identify stress in themselves and will develop their own strategies that can
assist you to avoid, prevent, manage & process stress.
Grief Group: Losing someone you love comes with many different feelings that can be confusing and overwhelming.
Students sometimes feel that other people don’t really understand what they are going through, so this group provides a
safe space for students to connect with other teenagers who have experience the loss of an immediate family member.
The group focuses on understanding the grief process, as well as expressing and managing grief in positive ways. Group
members can choose to share as much or as little personal information as they wish.
Career Cruising: Using the web-based program Career Cruising, students will begin to explore the many careers available
to them based on their interests. They will make connections between their school performance and skills and their career
interests and learn more about how the choices they make now will influence the options available to them in the future.
This is a 3 session group that is offered to students who do not have access to the counseling classes either because they
are scheduled in Literacy Support or Academic Strategies.
Group support is available to all students who meet the criteria and can be referred by parents or teachers. For more
information on these support groups, feel free to contact the School Counselors at their respective school buildings.
A SHOUT OUT TO THE CLASS OF 2014
As the academic year winds down, the SHS School Counseling staff would like to congratulate all members of the Class of
2014 for their outstanding accomplishments to Scituate High School and we wish them continued success into the future.
Here are some facts and figures about this amazing class of students!
Number of college applications processed ………………………………………..…………………………….1,365
Number of college admissions officers who have visited SHS this year………………………………….66
Number of students who attended one or more visits from college admissions officers……..545
Percent of seniors who applied under an early application program……………………………………72%
Percent of seniors who are expected to attend a college/university in the fall……………………92%
Percent of seniors who have matriculated to Massachusetts colleges and universities……..44%
Percent of seniors who are expected to enter military services…………………………………………..2%
Percent of seniors who are expected to join workforce ………………………………………………………5%
Number of colleges and/or universities seniors will be attending…………………………….………….84
Number of local scholarship applications processed……………………………………………………….1,095
Number of local scholarships granted ………………………………………………………………………………….71
Amount of money awarded in local scholarships ……………………………………………………….$140,000
Total number of community service hours performed…………………………………………………..15,728
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History and Social Sciences – Submitted by Steve Swett
This Spring in Social Studies
Geography students heard students from Malaysia, Italy and Kurdistan talk about their lives at home and their
experiences going to high school in the United States. This program was sponsored by the South Shore Arts
Center and the Scituate Rotary, and was supported by AFS. Students’ reactions included the following:
 “Having students from the AFS program speak at gates was a great experience. Not only did I learn about
the culture of other countries, I also learned about the AFS program.”
 “The students from Italy, Malaysia and, Kyrgyzstan were close to our age so it made it easier to relate. It
also gave me an appreciation for the little things that I wouldn't normally consider a privilege.”
 “I learned about how easy we have it and that even though we think that we have a lot of work that they
really have way more work than we do.”
 “It made me feel lucky to be at Gates, despite the building itself. For instance, we don't need uniform,
students and teachers get along well, and we have more interactive classrooms.”
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Dan Schmelzer spoke with all 7 graders at Gates about his life in Kenya, and the challenges of trying to reunite
runaway boys with their families. After the presentation, some students’ comments were:
 “It showed that people from other parts of the world aren't as fortunate as we are, and also that we should
not take anything for granted.”
 “Dan talked about solving the biggest problems first and the rest will take care of itself. I connected this to
our geography project because my group and I chose to find solutions to one of the bigger problems of
the carbon dioxide emissions as it would also solve the polluted water issue.”
 “I heard that it is great to give back to people and that the favor will be returned when you are in need
some day. Also, Dan showed us that anyone can make a difference in the world to make it a better place.”
AP United States History students worked on a Project Based Learning experience with Science teacher Alan
Sylvester and two other representatives from the SHS Class of 1964. They used their history skills to gather and
present information to help create a successful 50th year reunion experience this fall for the SHS Class of 1964.
Projects focused on changes in music, race relations, gender roles, economic development and “the high school
experience”.
Scituate’s State Representative Jim Cantwell came in to speak with AP Government students. He talked about
how politicians made choices about where to invest their energies, and the ways in which bills change as they go
through the political process to become laws.
U.S. Congressman Stephen Lynch spoke with Ross Maki’s Finance and Investing class as well as students
from US History, AP Government and AP Psychology classes. As well as congratulating the business students
for their work in the Congressional Stock market challenge and his work on the Financial Services Committee,
Representative Lynch talked about his recent trips to Iraq, Afghanistan and the Ukraine and the importance of
finding common ground with our allies to strengthen democracy and human rights around the world. After
answering students questions for 40 minutes, he closed by saying that, despite what one hears about in the
media, government service is a rewarding and honorable profession, and that we all have a responsibility to
vote and to help solve problems in our community.
In late May, students in Ms. Lesniak’s Morality and Social Justice Course had the opportunity to meet and
attend a lecture given by Mr. Aron Greenfield. Mr. Greenfield is a Holocaust survivor, enduring nine Nazi
extermination camps. He spoke to students about his experiences growing up in Poland, in the concentration
camps, moving to the United States and most importantly, passionately talked about how the lessons of the
Holocaust could not be forgotten. His message that society needs to “wake up and be knowledgeable about
world events to make sure this doesn’t happen again” resonated with students who agreed that they could do
more to be active citizens of the world. Mr. Greenfield also asked students to make sure they were avoiding
propaganda or one-sided news and to always seek out balanced news sources. Students found the
presentation inspiring and a call to action. One student called Mr. Greenfield’s lessons, “the most important
things I could have learned in my high school career”.
On Wednesday May 21st, Scituate High School’s Amnesty International and Interact Clubs welcomed guest
speakers to present about human rights issues in Kenya. All students at SHS were invited to the presentation.
Dan Schmelzer from Capstone Ministries spoke to over 30 students about his experiences with education in
Kenya with the help of Robert Schipul from Scituate Rotary Club. Students asked about the challenges of
democracy and the obstacles to protecting human rights, which allowed them to connect and build on what they
had learned in their history classes. Students were inspired with the local impact Mr. Schmelzer had on
communities in Kenya, and were encouraged to think of the wider world beyond Scituate.
The Robert Corbin Chapter of the History Honor Society welcomed 17 new members in late May. The
following students were recognized for their love of history which they display by asking questions in and
outside of class, and by their commitment to using the past to understand and solve problems in the present.
Mary Donovan
Caroline Giovannucci
Elianna Buckley
Matt DelGrosso
Leah Doherty
Francis Donovan
Shane Granigan
Matthew Jordan
Max Meiselman
Jonny Ricci
Mike Sunnerberg
Casey White
Skye Fenton
Liam Healey
Casey Kelleher
Megan King
Danny Monger
The Scituate High School Citizenship Award is given annually by the social studies department to the student
in the senior class who through their actions demonstrates a commitment to contributing to the larger
community. This year, the department recognized Izzy Berton for her work with SHORE and Scituate
Community Christmas, for planning and coordinating a Christmas Party for 17 Brockton homeless children and
their families, and for founding the Interact Club here at SHS which is dedicated to “Service Above Self”.
The Michael Clancy Award is given annually to the outstanding historian in the senior class. This year, Peter
Belval was the recipient of this award in recognition of his work with the Model United Nation’s Club, and his
often stated and well-argued belief that it is the responsibility of high school students to start finding solutions to
the problems left to them by previous generations.
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STEM K-12 – Submitted by Heather Hughes, Coordinator
Math
Students in grades K-6 have completed their first year of the enVision Math Program and they have
achieved more than we could have ever imagined! Thanks go out to all the students, parents, guardians,
and teachers for all their hard work with making sure it was a successful year!
Students need to continue to practice mathematics. Scituate will continue to use FASTT MATH and
FRACTION NATION (Gr. 5 students) to support computational and fraction fluency.
Mathematical proficiency is dependent on fluency with basic facts so that attention and memory are
available for reasoning. Studies have shown that one or two FASTT Math sessions per day several times a
week will help develop automatic recall of basic facts. The students are using this site in school; in addition,
we recommend 3 times a week at home for optional summer work. This will help the students to acquire
automatic recall of the operations, which they will need to be successful in mathematics. To get to the
FASTT Math website, go to http://scit.org/apps from any web browser. If you do not have access to a
computer you can use the public library computers.
In kindergarten students will be given a summer calendar with suggested math activities and sixth graders
will be provided work from the middle school. Although summer work is considered optional, we
encourage you to practice your math skills at least 3 times a week.
By the end of fourth grade your student is expected to be fluent in addition, subtraction, and multiplication
and division facts through 12. Below is the breakdown of target areas for fact mastery by grade level
according to the Common Core State Standards.
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Grade 1: focus on addition
Grade 2: focus on subtraction
Grade 3: focus on multiplication
Grade 4: focus on division.
Grade 5: focus on fractions
Have a restful and fun summer vacation!
Science
Teachers and students across the district have been exploring science concepts throughout the year and
we hope that this continues throughout the summer. Science is all around us, so have you kids get outside
and use a science journal to log their observations. Also, here are some websites to explore rainy days as
well. Enjoy!
http://discoverykids.com/
http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/
http://www.wgbh.org/kids/index.cfm
Science – Submitted by Kathy Elich, Department Head
GATES:
The spring has been a busy season for science and robotics students at Gates Intermediate.
Summer is just around the corner and we are all looking forward to a long vacation. Students are still engaged in
finishing up a variety of tasks with their robots. Seventh graders are completing a 2 level miner rescue scenario.
Eighth graders are finishing up a challenge that requires their robot to roam autonomously for 2 minutes inside a
boxed in area. Next they have to program their robot to follow a line on the floor using VEX line follower sensors.
Both seventh and eighth graders enjoy customizing their robots.
All tasks require good listening skills, quality note taking, team work, programming knowledge, ability to access
information, focus on productive time management and attention to details. Next week we will be sadly
disassembling out robots and performing a detailed inventory of all 556 parts in each team’s kit. This is our last
graded task in robotics and is worth 100 points if done properly.
To all, have a FUN and SAFE summer!
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Gates Environmental Club News
The Environmental Club is alive and well! We have been primarily working with Stellwagen Bank National Marine
Sanctuary this year. This partnership formed several years ago and continues to grow.
Stellwagen Sanctuary provides educational events for all ages to spread the following message: The Sanctuary is a
wild ocean place just off our coast which is home to an amazing array of wildlife and a diverse collection of
shipwrecks. Its nutrient-rich waters attract well over 575 known species, including some of those endangered. We
all can play a critical role in its protection!
Gates Environmental Club members are involved in an ongoing training to become Student Ambassadors for the
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Sanctuary. In the fall, we shared our knowledge with some 5 and 6 graders at Hatherly Elementary so they in
turn could educate their fellow classmates.
Other activities have included painting canvases of shipwrecks to be used by various maritime heritage centers
during their educational events. You might have seen us in Scituate’s St. Patrick’s Day parade marching along with
Stellwagen. Most recently, we helped to run the Stellwagen Sanctuary exhibits at the Scituate Science Spectacular
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on April 10 . In May we will be hosting our own Gates Stellwagen Day: Stream to Sanctuary for 7 grade science
classes!
Johnny Appleseed visited the Gates Community Garden! Well, really, it was Johnny Belber, of Holly Hill Farm.
And really, it was not apples that he planted, but potatoes!
PIT CREW: Sally Ormond Rossi
“31 miles, 7 schools, 5 towns, 2 teachers, 1 day, countless seeds!” This was the challenge undertaken last
Tuesday, when Holly Hill’s Jon Belber and Bruce Frost of Inly School ran the “School Garden Sprint”. Their
marathon began in Hingham and ended in Duxbury, with seven stops along the 31 mile route. As each Holly
Hill supported school met the runners, more seeds were planted in their organic gardens. Mrs. Read’s “G
Block” Science class, along with a pit crew, greeted the marathoners with water, oranges, and a “Garden
Strong” sign. Classes at Gates have planted garlic, kale, spinach, peas, and now potatoes, so far this season.
Strawberries will go in in the next few weeks. Stop in and check out the garden (weeding always welcome!),
behind the Little Red Schoolhouse at Gates.
TEAM F SCIENCE STUDENTS CELEBRATE “GARDEN STRONG” WITH HOLLY HILL FARM!!!
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MORE GATES NEWS:
Students in Ms. Woodford’s class are finished out the year by study Force and Motion. Students looked at air
resistance by testing out parachutes.
Their final project of the year is to create their own review “Board Games”. Students are designing their games
around the topics covered throughout the year: Astronomy, Ecosystems, Genetics, and Force and Motion.
High School – Ornithology
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Students in the Ornithology class participated in the annual Bird-A-Thon on Friday, May 16 . Bird-a-thon is the
annual fundraiser for the Massachusetts Audubon Society where teams of birders spend 24 hours trying to
spot the most species in Massachusetts. This year’s event kicked off at 6 pm on May 16.
Since the event began 1983, thousands of dedicated supporters and team members have raised more than $2
million to support Mass Audubon’s wildlife sanctuaries and programs across the state.
Mr. Maguire was very proud of his team of 6 seniors who gave up a Friday night to go birding for this event.
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Work began at the end of April for the duck pond in anticipation
of the arrival of this year’s ducklings. Mr. Maguire has been
supervising the construction of the pond. Even Mr. Mingel’s
Engineering classes have contributed to the cause by designing
a device to keep the duck food and water protected from the
elements.
Above: Ducklings born June 3rd, 2014.
Right: Members of the “Duck Squad” receive recognition for
their work.
AP Chemistry
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It has been a busy spring for the AP Chemistry students. On May 1 students in Ms. Ward’s AP Chemistry class
competed against Cohasset in AP Jeopardy in order to prepare for their AP Chemistry exam. After a strong start in
the competition, Scituate trailed going in to the final Jeopardy round, but was able to come away with the win by
answering the final Jeopardy question correctly. Ms. Ward was proud of her AP Chemistry students coming away
with the win but was most proud of the sportsmanship they displayed throughout the competition.
All participants enjoyed ice cream after the competition.
There’s been no rest for the AP Chemistry students once the exam was over. The last few weeks of the school
year have been busy with AP Chemistry students conducting demonstrations for their classmates, visiting Mr.
McCord’s students, and visiting the middle school and Hatherly to teach a chemistry lesson to younger students
Students in Ms. Ward’s class demonstrated “Elephant Toothpaste” to their peers, created “Oobleck” with Mr.
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McCord’s class, and made ice cream with the 7 grade science classes.
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On Monday, June 9, Ms. Moore’s On Monday, June 9, Ms. Moore’s AP Chemistry class taught two of Ms.
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Suddath’s 6 grade classes at Hatherly Elementary the fundamentals of Wind Speed and Air Pressure. The
lesson included a discussion of the wind turbine on the Driftway. Students built their own anemometers,
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barometers and did experiments with ping pong balls. Later, the 6 graders asked the SHS students questions
about life at Gates and SHS.
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AP Chemistry class taught two of Ms. Suddath’s 6 grade classes at Hatherly Elementary the fundamentals of
Wind Speed and Air Pressure. The lesson included a discussion of the wind turbine on the Driftway. Students
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built their own anemometers, barometers and did experiments with ping pong balls. Later, the 6 graders asked
the SHS students questions about life at Gates and SHS.
Physics
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On Thursday, June 12 , 2014, students in Mr. Liska’s Honors Physics class competed in the annual Hurling
Competition. This annual event requires students to use the concepts they have learned throughout the year to
create a device that is scored on 13 different elements, the final two being distance and accuracy.
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Project Based Learning (PBL) is “Afloat” in Engineering at SHS
During the Spring semester at SHS, Mr. Mingels Capstone Design Project students were given what initially
appeared to be a simple objective. Design a craft which:
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can float for at least 10 seconds
can support at least 100 pounds
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has a composite density of no less than 0.9 kg/m
Sounds pretty easy, right? “It’s a lot more involved than you think, and there is a lot of Engineering involved.
This is an example of what I have traditionally called objective oriented learning…..now called Project Based
Learning,” stated Mr. Mingels, SHS Engineering teacher.
Starting with a skills assessment to form teams, the students meticulously broke the problem down and
leveraged their complementary skills to meet all three objectives. “Skills assessment is a real key to group
project work in academia as well as in the real world. We tend to group-up with our friends, and this is
counterproductive because we are typically good at the same things our friends are. What happens is that we
only solve one piece of the puzzle rather than the whole thing….leveraging complementary skills solves it all”
says Mr. Mingels.
Continuing through the process, the students realized that there are two ways to float: static and dynamic.
Static is buoyancy and/or displacement, dynamic is hydroplaning. Students opted to try both approaches in
order to maximize their chance success. Half the class designed and fabricated a duct tape boat (inspiration
from Mythbusters) and the other half designed and fabricated a skimboard. “Mr. Mingels stressed the
importance of meeting the specification. It doesn’t matter if you are floating in deep water, like the duct tape
boat or in an inch of water, like the skimboard, your still floating,” said Jack Reidy, a senior in the class. “He
showed us how to break the problem down and solve each piece, one-at-a-time…..we really learned a lot
about how to solve really any problem.”
During the design process, students had to calculate all forces, displacement (duct tape boat), hydrodynamic
lift (skimboard) and other values in order to complete their final designs. Along the way they used calculus,
physics, geometry, trigonometry, algebra, English, communications and a wide range of other skills. “I tell
them that it’s exceptionally rare to use one single discipline to solve a problem…..typically, it’s a combination of
many pieces. We answered the ‘when am I ever going to use this’ question many times this semester,” said
Mr. Mingels.
Toward the end of the semester, student teams gave a formal design review, attended by other classes,
administration, parents, and the superintendent. At the end of the semester, students demonstrated their
designs by using them at the beach….and they both met the objectives beautifully.
Summing up the project, Mr. Mingels added, “These guys really knocked it out of the park. The level of detail
and caliber of their work was superb and no words can adequately express how proud I am of them.”
Mr. Mingel’s Engineering class with their duct tape boat…..with pilot Patrick O’Brien aboard.
In-process skimboard….shaping
complete, waiting for fiberglass
Other SHS Science News:
On Wednesday, June 4, Michelle Bookstaver visited Scituate High School at the invitation of her former AP
Chemistry teacher, Annette Moore, to speak to the students about her experiences at Brown University.
Michelle is a 2009 SHS graduate, a 2013 Brown undergraduate in chemical engineering and a 2014 Brown
Masters graduate in biomedical studies. She is currently conducting research at Brown with plans to begin
her PhD on the West Coast in one year.
Michelle thrilled sixty students from three science classes (Honor’s physics, Honor’s Biology and AP Chem)
with her presentation on strategies for success and challenges she has faced while pursuing her dreams in
science, technology, and research at Brown. Thank you Michelle!
Below: What the well -dressed science students wear to prom.
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Scituate Science Spectacular 2014
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Thursday, April 10 was one of the first beautiful days of spring in Scituate; and yet one couldn’t help but
be drawn inside to the scientific sanctum created by the Scituate Science Spectacular. This district wide
event, held for the second year, was created to provide an opportunity for all Scituate students to present
their scientific findings, creations and innovations to the public. Throughout Scituate High School, over 260
student presenters could be found explaining their projects with great pride and enthusiasm.
Students of all ages worked alone or with partners to build a project that fulfilled a scientific interest of
theirs. Static electricity was studied, as well as the formation of crystals, the benefits of chocolate, water
and its properties, exercise and the heart, projectiles and aerodynamics, pond and vegetation analyses
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were completed, and so much more. Lori Shally’s 5 graders demonstrated their stream projects and
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Allan Sylvester’s 9 grade physics students brought all attendees up to speed on recent scientific
inventions and findings.
In the weeks leading up to the event, student presenters who participated in the Science Spectacular
Mentorship Workshops enjoyed being mentored on their projects by SHS science teacher, Deb Dakin (and
Sci Spec organizer extraordinaire), SHS student mentors, several scientific parents from the community, and
our science department chairs Kathy Elich and Heather Hughes.
Hands-On Science exploration and activities were recreated from projects found in science museums across
the country and enjoyed by all in the cafeteria, alongside the ever popular Science Café (no need to explore
the Sci Spec on an empty stomach!). For those who chose to test their scientific knowledge, a Science Bee
was the way to go. Care was needed while roaming the busy halls as a student built robot (under the
tutelage of teacher Brad Mingels) may be found under foot at any moment! A stop in the small gym brought
the nighttime skies to all. Free tickets kept the inflatable planetarium with tours led by teacher Rick English
filled to capacity throughout the event. There too was the South Shore Astronomical Society sharing the
wonders of their expertise. A quieter moment could be had in the auditorium listening the captivating and
knowledgeable Tim Kelley – Scituate resident and NECN’s meteorologist.
It all came full circle in the big gym, where Science in Scituate demonstrations took place. Members of our
amazing community, teachers and students, gladly showed how science and their work, hobbies or
businesses come together. We were treated to tours of full size whales by both the Stellwagon Bank Marine
Sanctuary/Gates student team and their teachers Jean Chamber& Cindy Jaymes/alongside Jill Suddath and
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her 5 and 6 grade students, and by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation. The Hanger Clinic showed how
their cutting edge research and development provides help to those in need of prosthetics. AJA International
demonstrated the latest in high tech electroplating occurring right here in Scituate. Care for our environment,
sea level rise, and more was shared via mapping tools and interactive displays by the Sustainable Scituate,
North South River Watershed Association and the Nature Conservancy. Alternative energy was represented
through Brightfields Development/Scituate Solar (PV) and RESSolar (hot water). If you were ever curious to
better understand geothermal heating and cooling, Coneco Engineers & Scientists and Coneco Energy were
on hand. A plethora of information was available on Scituate’s drinking water by the Scituate Water
Department. The Coast Guard was nearby too explaining how their 47' Motor Life Boat is capable for rerighting itself if it capsizes (buoyancy vs. gravity). And with the ocean close at hand in our lovely seaside
town, Bassin Cove Maritime Association divers shared their amazing finds from an old wreck off of Scituate’s
coast. These finds are often showcased at another demonstrator’s locale, the Irish Mossing Museum.
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Further coastal studies were demonstrated by the Sheep Pond Study/Wampatuck 6 Graders and their
teacher Patty Grace, and by teacher Annette Moore’s students and their Center for Student Coast Research
vegetation testing.
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Plant physiology was shown in micro detail by Rodney Hine and team, and should you need to delineate a
wetland in your back yard, wetland scientist Sarah Stearns was there to advise. Holly Hill Farm got down
and dirty with Sci Spec guests when it came to checking out the goodness of composting. This went handin-hand with the Gates Student Gardeners, demonstrating with their teacher Dori Read. Who knew hanging
around Scituate Pediatrics or Dr. Abbie Yardley, family dentist, could be so much fun? Providing insight into
keeping one’s heart healthy (& utilizing the gym’s climbing wall) was teacher Trevor Shattgen.
Demonstrating nearby was Scituate FACTS who brought expert/scientist, Marcy Hudson to explain the
pathways that form in the brains of teens based on substance use/age. Without technology today, this
would be difficult to log; but thanks to Scituate school’s Technology and Integration Specialist, Darlene
Foley, who shared with students and adults how to write computer code, we’re sure to have a ready supply
of computer engineers in the future. This was further supported by EMC’s presentation and hands on
activity on Computer Disk technology. First-hand information on the recent finds in the Big Bang Theory &
Superconductivity was provided by Dr. Koenraad Schalm, Ph. D. And should one want to do further
research, finish a science project or research paper – where do you go? To the library of course!
Explaining library & information science and sharing great summer reads, was our own Scituate Town
Library.
As the Science Spectacular came to a close, the Scituate Science Symposium got started in the Auditorium.
Five world class scientists (all from Scituate!) spoke on the latest developments in their fields. The Myths
and Realities of Cloud Computing were discussed by Erik Riedel, Ph. D. (EMC). Carol Anne Clayson, Ph.
D. (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute) spoke about “The Ocean’s Impact on Water Variability”. In a
similar vein and with information specific to Scituate, Richard Murray, Ph. D. (Boston University) presented
on “Climate, Oceans, and You”. Rounding out the Symposium and bringing it all to the cosmic level was
Koenraad Schalm, Ph. D. (Leiden/Harvard University) and his discussion on “Superconductivity and the Big
Bang Theory”. WOW about sums it up!
Thank you to all the student demonstrators for sharing your exciting interests and curiosities, to the
scientists who spoke, the Science in Scituate demonstrators, the student mentors and the parents and
teachers who helped work with and inspire our students. A great thank you goes out to the many teachers,
administrators, volunteers and organizers of the Sci Spec.
Summer is a handy time to think about expanding students’ projects or creating new ones, or to study
events that are better suited for the warmer weather (seeds, plant growth, water/coastal projects, athletics,
etc.). As you travel, enjoy the beach or ocean, build or create new inventions, keep track of your
observations, collect your data and build your project, then coast into the Science Spectacular 2015! Check
in at http://scituatesciencespectacular.com once in a while to see if there is anything new or to find a
resource or email us. Have an inquisitive summer - see you around town.
World Languages – Submitted by Kate Ciulla
World Languages Celebrate Success!
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On May 27 the World Language Department celebrated student success on the National French,
Latin and Spanish exams at the Departmental Awards evening. Students from grades 7 through 12 opted to
take the National Exam for the respective languages. In Latin, 34 students received National recognition for
their outstanding performance on the exam. 20 students of French also received National recognition and in
Spanish 35 students were commended for excellent performance on the National Spanish Exam. Students
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were also inducted into their National French, Latin and Spanish honor societies on May 27 .
Congratulations to Delaney Burns, Keegan Lee, Samia Sabir, Benjamin Sandham and Courtney Song for
their induction into the Societe Honoraire de Francais. And congratulations to Megan Carney, Regina
Collari, Adrianna Crowell, Skye Fenton, Kori Garland, Johann Johnson, Lorraine Jones, Casey Kelleher,
Aidan McDaid, Kyle Sample, Madeline Shannon, Jacqueline Thornton for induction into the National Latin
Honor Society. Last but not least, congratulations to Brendan Barry, Karen Burke, Thomas Burkhardt,
Michael Burt, Ava Capodanno, Charlotte Carr, Sophia Coleman, McKenna Dunn, Kathryn Ferguson, Ellen
Foley, Thomas Gillan, William Healey, Maya Heger, Delaney Hill, Emma Hofmann, Courtney Killion, Maria
Leighton, Taylor McCormack, Sarah McCowan, Jane Meyrick, Gabrielle Otto, Jacquelyn Reardon, Madison
Reid, Sean Rezendes, Halle Rodes, Madeline Ryan, Nathaniel Ryan, Christopher Sharry, Aisling Sheehan,
Zachary Shooshan, Grace Strong, Rachel Sullivan, Connor Tobin, Curran Wait and Shannon Whalen for
their induction into La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica. The World Language teachers are very proud of their
students’ work!
Exciting things are happening in Latin, French and Spanish classes! To conclude the year in Latin,
students in Magistra Raymond’s class presented a Wax Museum to the high school community. Virgil and
Caesar were in attendance! Latin students took on the identity of Roman historical figures and presented
autobiographies to visitors of the museum. Students experienced moments of Ancient Roman life and
realized that times may change but human nature never does! In Spanish and French Cinema courses
students are working on creating their own films. They must connect their work to themes and essential
questions explored throughout the course. Students in level 2 Spanish classes worked on writing and
presenting legends to demonstrate knowledge of past tense usage and apply rules of syntax to narration
skills. Spanish students in Senora Lima and Senorita Olander’s classes competed in a children’s book
creation competition. The theme of the children’s books was protecting our environment. Winners of the
competition were awarded an opportunity to read to younger students and translate their stories for them!
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REMINDER:
We want to remind students of the importance of
practicing your world language skills over the
summer. Students in levels 1 and 2 will complete
online work through Lingo Jingo! Upper level
students will be given readings or other
assignments to encourage retention of skills.
Please check out the SHS website for summer
work instructions and downloads.
Equity and Diversity - Submitted by Heidi Lemmel, METCO Director
Equity and Diversity Group Happenings
The Equity and Diversity Work Group are educators from each school in the district that joined together last
year to develop resources and understanding about cross cultural competencies and explore new learning
around the larger issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the school communities. This work is
rooted in the understanding that all students are valued as assets regardless of learning styles, social
customs, home languages, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, race and ethnicity. Cultural Proficiency
and Competency is simply a lens to examine our work and interactions with other people. More specifically
it is the way individuals and organizations make assumptions about describing, responding, and planning
for issues that arise in diverse environments. This lens offers another method to understand and talk
about our differences respectfully while recognizing and respecting all individuals and their multiple
identities.
Current research suggest that all children benefit in learning environments that offer multiple perspectives
because increasing they will live, work, and function in a multifaceted global community. Similar to the race
to achieve technological proficiency in schools, achieving cultural proficiency is another essential 21st
century skill that also must be woven into the general fabric of school community. Practitioners and scholar
emphasize that achieving cultural competency is an ongoing developmental process that requires a long
term commitment. Schools today (especially those that lack visibly broad diversity structures within their
buildings) have a moral and pedagogical obligation to provide students with the opportunity to learn those
skills. Schools that do equity work well will serve as leaders in preparing young people to successfully
navigate their way through future challenge. It will also bring about meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
To learn more about the Equity and Diversity Work please visit our website.
http://spsequitydiversity.weebly.com and Twitter @SPSEquityWkgrp
Page 55 of 58
Special Education – Submitted by Dianna Mullen, Director
Wow, feel the sunshine and welcome in summer. In this last week of school I have much to reflect upon in our
department.
o
We will be implementing a second year of our high school Social Emotional Program and starting a first year of this
program at the Gates Middle School next year. I am also exploring collaboration with the Department of Mental
Health, DMH, for these two programs.
o
We will be implementing our second year and growth of the Co-Teaching Team model at the elementary schools
and the first year at the Gates Middle School. Training has been received very positively by the teachers and our
trainer has also felt we are a great group to work with and has seen implementation this year that is excellent.
o
Two summer programs, Bridges (PLC/ILC) and Social Thinking will expand our collaboration with the Town
Recreation Department from three weeks to all six weeks of integration of our students to their programs.
o
The paraprofessionals received much professional development this year in the areas of:
o
o

PMT restraint training

ABA methodology in the general education classroom for behavior supports

Assistive technology training of devices and programs
Next year I look forward to collaborating with Department Heads to include our paraprofessionals in training
on specific curriculum to enhance the support of students in the general education classrooms.
Over the summer I will be updating our website, so please take a look for information there.
Our PAC has been very busy this year providing many parent educational opportunities. They had presenters from
both the Scituate Public Schools faculty and private presenters speaking on topics such as, but not limited to:

Executive Functioning supports at Gates

Writing Measurable Goals

Anxiety and school supports
Please take advantage of these presentation opportunities next year.
Notes from the Preschool
As we wrap up the year here at The Early Childhood Center we
would like to thank our parent committee who generously
contributed to our most recent field trip to Dalby Farm. Their
continued support to our program has allowed us many
opportunities and we appreciate it greatly. The classrooms
have been busy. We have been exploring the life cycles and
habitats of a variety of animals and insects. We have enjoyed
experiencing the life cycle of a painted lady butterfly from
caterpillar to butterfly. Releasing the butterflies proved to be a
classroom favorite among many. We have had the opportunity
to observe a mother duck care for her ducklings right outside
our classroom windows in the courtyard of the high school. Mr.
Maguire (Nolan’s Dad) has been helpful in providing us with
information on the mother duck and her babies. We have been
enjoying many special activities as we prepare for the end of the
year and celebrate the friendships we have made. We hope
everyone has a relaxing and safe summer and look forward to
seeing everyone in the fall.
Gates Middle School
Gates has been working with teachers,
providers, and families on transitioning
students from the elementary schools
and to the high school. Planning and
school visits have been underway to
ensure that students’ needs are met
and they incorporate transition plans to
provide for a smooth and exciting
transition. Teachers have been out in
the school community building
relationships and are enthusiastic to
receive new students in the upcoming
academic year.
Best Buddies recently participated in an
amazing wrap up activity where
members received participation
certificates. The afternoon was filled
with fun, games, food, dancing with a
DJ! Best Buddy members were
recognized for their achievements and
reflected upon the incredible
relationships they have built together.
Page 57 of 58
Technology K-12 - Submitted by Darlene Foley and John Mills
Technology Plan and BYOT Adopted by School Committee
We are pleased to announce that Scituate Public Schools’ Five-Year Technology Plan was approved by School
Committee on June 9, 2014. The technology plan is an extension of the SEE the Future of Scituate Public Schools, the
Five-Year District Improvement Plan and supports the district goals outlined in that document. The technology plan
contains three critical components that will help us meet the needs of our students; it includes a vision for the role of
technology within the district along with five specific goals and implementation strategies. Each component has a
specific purpose but they are interdependent to attain success.
The technology visioning process began in the fall of 2013 with a group of thirty-one people that represented parents,
teachers, administrators and students who shared ideas, concerns, and enthusiasm towards technology in our
schools. A smaller but equally representative group worked collaboratively to turn the key words that emerged from
the initial discussions into the technology vision as shown below.
The Technology Vision
The Scituate Public Schools thoughtfully integrates technology to transform learning, to foster flexible
personalized instruction, and to prepare students for college, career and global citizenship.
Technology is used to promote equitable access to the curriculum in a developmentally appropriate
manner. Technology is seamlessly and purposefully embedded to enhance dynamic, rigorous and
relevant curriculum to further engage all learners. Students and educators utilize digital collaboration,
communication and creation tools resulting in enhanced problem solving within and outside of the
classroom. The district promotes responsible digital citizenship in our community of families, students
and staff. The district provides meaningful and ongoing professional development to successfully
integrate technology. The Scituate Public Schools’ staff, students, families, and community collaborate
to support the conscientious integration of technology ensuring our students are well prepared to
succeed and thrive as global citizens in a rapidly changing world.
Overall, the technology vision addresses the need to increase access to digital tools for all students that will enhance
learning and accessibility to academic resources. The goals that include ubiquitous access for all students,
st
enhancement of student-centered learning by embedding 21 Century skills that includes Digital Citizenship/Literacy
curriculum, implementation of Bring Your Own Technology for grades 5-12, and also a plan to provide professional
development for the staff. The technology vision is comprehensive and the goals are lofty to prepare Scituate Public
Schools’ students for the future. This is a very exciting time for us as educators but we also believe that it is equally
exciting for students and families.
To read all the details in the technology plan, use the link below to download it from the SPS website:
www.scituate.k12.ma.us/index.php/district-information/district-news-archive/776-five-year-district-technology-plan.
SPS Digital Open House is a new website designed to provide information to families about teaching and learning with
the use of technology. Please visit http://www.scituate.k12.ma.us/spstech/ to find useful resources for parents and
caregivers.