Community Newsletter – November 2014

Community Newsletter
January 2015 J. Lanoue—Editor Message from the Superintendent
Dear Parents, Educators, Students, and Residents: As we change the calendar to 2015, we look forward to the exciting and challenging times ahead for our students and staff of the Uxbridge Public Schools. January also marks the beginning of our transition work for parents and students for the 2015‐2016 academic year. Over the next few months, you will receive more information about upcoming meetings and events related to our future program goals for our schools and the budget planning that is underway to achieve these goals. If you do not receive informational emails from your child’s school, please make sure that the main office has your correct email and contact information. Our schools deliver a tremendous amount of information through the Connect Ed telephone and email system. You can also find us on Facebook to engage with us. There have been and will continue to be several opportunities for our stakeholders to connect with our educators and parent leaders. From Principal “Coffee Hours” to community forums to program presentations, these are great outlets to discuss issues that are important for you and your children. I also encourage you to attend the monthly School Committee meetings. In the spirit of building our school community efforts, we cannot say enough about the great work that our parent organizations do to support our educators and students. The Uxbridge Education Foundation, Parent Teacher Organizations, Parent Advisory Council, the Booster Club, Parents for Safe Graduation and the Friends of Uxbridge Music Education are groups of wonderful people who do tremendous work to improve and support our programs and support for our children. Please consider contacting the leaders of these organizations to learn how you can be involved to support and improve our school community. A contact list for the leaders of these organizations is included on page 2 of this newsletter. Your thoughts and suggestions are always welcome, so please do not hesitate to contact us to share your feedback. The Parent Satisfaction Survey is still open, so please take a few moments to help us gauge the quality of services and to determine areas for improvement. Click on the link below to participate. Parent Satisfaction Survey Enjoy reading about the great work that teacher and students are doing throughout the district in this newsletter edition. Sincerely, Kevin M. Carney Superintendent of Schools Community Newsletter
Page 2
PARENTORGANIZATIONCONTACTINFORMATION
Uxbridge Education Foundation
Kate Travaline
[email protected]
Taft PTO
Kim Lannigan
[email protected]
Whitin PTO
Kris Holt
[email protected]
Whitin PTO
Ann Caso
[email protected]
McCloskey PTO
Wendy Washington
Uxbridge Special Education Parent
Advisory Council
Athletic Booster Club
Carrie Maconi
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Uxbridge Friends of Music
Linda Page
Moe Stewart
Liz Wondolowski
Parents for Safe Graduation
Carla Rubin
[email protected]
[email protected]
UXBRIDGE EDUCATION FOUNDATION TRIVIA NIGHT
Saturday, January 24, 2015
7-10pm
Uxbridge Progressive Club
18 Whitin St, Uxbridge, Massachusetts 01569
Come shake off the winter blues and join us for a fun night of Trivia
hosted by Wise Guys Trivia. Test your knowledge, share some laughs
and have a relaxing night out close to home! All proceeds will benefit
Uxbridge School Grant and Scholarship Programs.
Admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Light refreshments,
cash Bar, 50/50 raffle and raffle baskets will be available.
Please contact Linda Kuros (508) 904-2581 or Judi Lanoue at the
Central Office 508-278-8648, ext. 113 for tickets.
Community Newsletter
PSG: MARCH CALENDAR FUNDRAISER
Page 3
Community Newsletter
Page 4
PSG: MARCH CALENDAR FUNDRAISER
Chicken Shoot Uxbridge Parents for Safe Graduation 2015 Saturday, February 7th 2:00pm The Progressive Club 18 Whitin Rd, Uxbridge, MA Please join us for a fun afternoon as we raise money for the class of 2015 safe graduation events. What is a Chicken Shoot??? ‐ It is a 3 card “bingo type” game. You have the chance to win 5 times in each round (food and meat prizes). There will be 8 rounds. Essentially, it is Bingo for meat. Admission $20.00 /per person and can be purchased at the door. Cash Bar, Raffle baskets and 50/50 Raffle Any Questions Michelle Taparausky 339‐933‐6878 [email protected] Or Linda Kuros 508‐904‐2581 [email protected] Hope to see you there!!!!! Page 5
Community Newsletter
THE INDEPENDENCE PROJECT 18—22 YEAR OLD PROGRAM Now that the school year is in full swing, the students of the Independence Project have been very busy. Almost
everyone is working, out of the building, at different jobs every day of the week. Scheduling can be difficult, however,
with increasing independence, it becomes easier to get everyone to the job site of their choice.
We have introduced a new recycling program, thanks to the generous donation of six barrels from the Casella Waste
Company. This project includes both elementary schools and the middle school. Students from the Independence
Project collect and recycle paper and plastic at the Taft Elementary School on Tuesday afternoons, at the Whitin
Elementary School on Wednesday afternoons and at the McCloskey Middle School on Thursday afternoons. We involve
students from the special education classrooms in those buildings, to promote awareness of our “green initiative” and to
initiate career readiness skills.
The first Time to Mingle of the year was held at the West End Creamery on October 24, 2014. Students had fun playing
mini-golf, riding the Pedal Karts, and going through the corn maze. No one got lost and some had competitions to see
who could get through the maze first. We topped the night off with ice cream for everyone. Thank you West End
Creamery for making our outing such a success!
The students had so much fun at their Time to Mingle, they planned a social night at our building. On Friday, November
7, the students of the Independence Project, along with some of their friends, arranged to meet at our building dressed
in Halloween costumes. They listened to music, had some snacks, watched a movie and just enjoyed each others’
company. I was very impressed at how well they organized this social and how successful it was. Kudos to them!
Five students from our program are now studying for their Learner’s Permit. All of them want to get jobs. Some want
to go to college. So we have secured copies for them of the Massachusetts Driver’s Manual. They are reading
independently, studying together by asking questions, and when they are ready they will go together to take their test.
The people at the Registry were very impressed we were doing this for the kids and wanted to help.
On Saturday, December 6, Uxbridge hosted their First Night Holiday Night Santa Parade. The Independence
Project was open, from 4:30-7:00, with music performed by the Whitinsville Christian School strings program. Many
people stopped by to warm up, listen to the music and enjoy some refreshments.
On Tuesday, December 16, the students of the Independence Project visited the residents of the Lydia Taft House. We
sang carols and distributed tree ornaments the students had made. What a great experience for them. They loved
having the opportunity to give back and asked if they could do this again next year.
The Independence Project hosted their annual Holiday Party on Thursday, December 18, from 11:00-1:00. The students
cleaned the building and prepared many of the dishes for our guests. It was wonderful to see family and friends enjoying
this time together. On Friday, after cleaning up, the students exchanged Secret Santa gifts, before going home for a well
deserved break.
Community Newsletter
Page 6
Happenings
In November, we hosted Community Readers Day. Special guest readers from all over the
community joined us to read to students in grades PreK-2. They shared their experiences with
students and were treated to a reception in the library after the event. Many students also took
the time to write thank you cards to their community readers. A great time was had by all.
Where Positive Words = Powerful Results
TAFT EARLY LEARNING CENTER
The school year is now in full swing. The Taft ELC staff and students have been working hard to
meet curriculum and professional development expectations. November and December were
busy months with many fantastic opportunities for teachers and students.
December provided teachers with a data release day and a half day of professional development.
For the data release day, teachers met to discuss and analyze student work. Having this time
allowed teachers to collaborate about student progress and implementing appropriate
interventions. Instructional strategies were also shared in an ongoing effort to insure consistency
across grade levels. During the professional day, teachers were given choices of workshops to
attend to fill their professional development plans. Workshops were offered in the areas of math,
writing, lesson design, and unit design.
There were also school wide events in November and December. Parent teacher conferences
were held. The school was a buzz with parents and teachers meeting to celebrate the
accomplishments of students. Student work was hung throughout the school and children could
be seen excitedly pointing out their work for the grown ups. We also had an entire week of spirit
days! The week before the holiday vacation students dressed for mismatched sock day, twinsies
day, inside out day, ugly sweater day, and pajama day. It’s hard to tell if the students or teachers
had more fun this week. 2014 ended with an all school meeting. The PTO sponsored a sing- along for the students and Santa himself made an appearance!
The PTO, as always, was also hard at work. In November, there was a movie night at UHS. In
December, the PTO hosted their annual Holiday Shop. Students had the opportunity to shop for
holiday gifts for family members while parents enjoyed refreshments in the cafeteria. The Square
One art work was also delivered in time for the holidays.
Things To Remember
The Taft ELC now has an absentee/emergency line (508-507-6129). We ask that parents and
guardians please call the absentee line to let us know when a student is going to be out sick.
Parents can also use the phone line if they need to leave a message for the office. We will go
out for recess in most conditions. Please send your child prepared to go out for recess. Coats,
hats, mittens, boots, and snow pants will allow your child to enjoy the New England winter
weather.
School Council
The Taft ELC School Council has been working hard. We attended the December School
Committee Meeting to share budget needs. The Council meets on the 3rd Monday of every
month, beginning at 3:45 and ending at 4:45. Our next meeting will be on January 27.
Upcoming Events
January 5-16
January 9
PreK and Kindergarten Registration
DAR Readers visiting Grade 1
Spirit Day: Sports Team shirt/hat day
January 16/19 No school: Professional Day and MLK Day
January 15
PTO Meeting after School in the Library
January 12
All School Meeting for Pennies for Patients
January 27
School Council Meeting
January 31
PTO Sponsored Taft ELC Art Show
Community Newsletter
Page 7
Congratulations November and December Bus of the Month Way to go, Bus #11 students and Catherine Sarrasin, driver for being the November bus of the Month. Take a bow, Bus #8 students, driver Heather Richardson for being the December Bus of the Month (see photos) Whitin Students Are: RESPECTFUL ~ RESPONSIBLE ~ READY TO LEARN
WHITIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Technicians for December and January with Mrs. Jansson Take a bow, Whitin Warrior Technicians! Keep up the great work during computer classes with Mrs. Jansson. Check out her blog at http://janssonbloguxbridge.blogspot.com. December Grade 5 Grade 4 Grade 3 Bethany Loach Dylan Donahue Faith Southwick Madison Departie Max Guyton Matthew DiLibero Reagan Guillette Izabel Pendleton Samantha Jones Aidan Mahoney Braeden Watt Mikayla Scaffidi Liz Morrissette Matthew O’Neill Lukas Ritacco Saige Frazier Jack Moscatelli Rylie Beland Grade 5 Grade 4 Grade 3 Alison Langemo Zach Roerden Jessica Lutton Madison Arsenault Tim Makynen Noah Cahill Sydney Boudreau Trevor Masnyk Jaden Mello James Donnelly Dan Doherty Grace Mathieu Briana Joyce Kylie Paul Liam Rigney Dan Buteyn Brennon Sullivan Kyle Lincoln January Community Newsletter
Page 8
January Focus Whitin Students Are: RESPECTFUL ~ RESPONSIBLE ~ READY TO LEARN
WHITIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
WES staff will be focusing on the STAR Math Assessment (on‐line during computer classes) data that all students are taking for the second time. Teachers will focus on strengths and weaknesses in math from this testing and student growth. Also, Grade 5 students will be individually tested by their teacher using the QRI‐5 (Quality Reading Inventory) to see how each student is progressing in reading. Grades 3 and 4 will be using the Benchmark Reading Assessments from the Storytown Reading Series to see how each student is progressing in reading. This data will drive math and reading instruction along with differentiating it for our WES student body. Girls on the Run Registration is open for girls in Grades 3,4,5 to take part in an after school program beginning on Tuesday and Thursday (March 24 – June 6/7) at WES. Please go to www.gotr‐worc.org to register. Any questions please contact Karen Spencer, Council Director, at [email protected]. Parking at WES‐ REMINDER The Public Safety Committee has requested to have the UPD ticket vehicles parked in the fire lanes at school. This will be done without any warning notice starting immediately. The fire lanes at WES are in the loop in front of the school and behind the cafeteria. Any questions should be directed to UFD Chief, Bill Kessler. MCAS Testing Dates Reminder Please take note of the following MCAS testing dates in the spring of 2015. School attendance during this time is so important for your child. Please mark your calendars with these important dates. They are also on the WES website: March 23: Grade 5 ELA Reading: Session 1 May 5: Grade 3 Math: Session 1 March 24: Grade 4 Long Composition May 6: Grade 3 Math: Session 2 March 25: Grade 5 ELA Reading: Session 2 May 7: Grade 5 Math: Session 1 March 26: Grade 3 ELA Reading: Session 1 May 11: Grade 5 Math: Session 2 May 12: Grade 4 Math: Session 1 March 27: Grade 3 ELA Reading: Session 2 March 31: Grade 4 ELA Reading: Session 1 May 13: Grade 4 Math: Session 2 April 1: Grade 4 ELA Reading: Session 2 May 14: Grade 5 Science: Session 1 April 2: Grade 4 Make Up Long Composition May 15: Grade 5 Science: Session 2 March 30: Make Up: All ELA Sessions May 18: Make Up: All Math Sessions May 19: Make Up: All Science Sessions Thank you Uxbridge Grange! On behalf of the Grade 3 students, we would like to thank the Uxbridge Grange for giving personal dictionaries to all. Your generosity was overwhelming! Upcoming Events
January 6, 2015 WES Ski Club to Wachusett MT. begins after school January 6, 2015 School Committee Meeting 7:00 pm UHS January 7, 2015 WES PTO Meeting – 7:00 pm WES Café. January 8, 2015 WES School Council Meeting – 3:30 – 4:30 WES Library January 8, 2015 UPS PAC Meeting – 7:00 PM UHS Café January 13, 2015 WES Ski Club to Wachusett MT after school January 16, 2015 Professional Development Day – No School January 19, 2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – No School January 20, 2015 WES Ski Club to Wachusett MT after school January 20, 2015 School Committee Meeting – 7:00 pm UHS January 21, 2015 School Store Open during lunches January 23, 2015 WES PTO Winter Social – WES Café 7‐9 pm January 26 – 30, 2015 Jump Rope for Heart January 27, 2015 WES Ski Club to Wachusett MT. after school January 28, 2015 School Store ‐ Open during lunches January 30, 2015 Spirit Day – Inside Out and Backwards Day Community Newsletter
Page 9
MCCLOSKEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
Principal’s Update As we have reached the conclusion of trimester one we could not be more proud of the effort and hard work of both our students and faculty. Teachers have made a concerted effort to enhance the rigor and relevance of the content they are teaching on a daily basis and students have risen to the challenge as evidenced through both their enthusiasm and the success so many experienced with their report cards. On another note, we are pleased to announce that McCloskey Middle School now officially has started the early formation of a chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. The object of the National Junior Honor Society is to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership and to encourage the development of character in all students at McCloskey Middle School. The NJHS looks for those who show outstanding qualities in scholarship, character, leadership, citizenship, and service. We are very proud to offer this opportunity to our eighth grade students. Project 351 – Sean Morrissey McCloskey Middle School is pleased to announce their 2015 "Project 351 Ambassador" is 8th grade student Sean Morrissey. Sean was chosen by his 8th grade teachers to represent Uxbridge and McCloskey Middle School as a student with a caring spirit who has unlimited potential as a leader. Project 351 is dedicated to celebrating youth leadership, inspiring the ethic of service, and honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sean will meet with Governor Baker and other 8th grade community representatives to work on service projects that will be run by Sean in the future within the Uxbridge community. Last year Jordan Washington, who is now in the 9th grade at Uxbridge High School, was the inaugural McCloskey Middle School Project 351 Ambassador. Pictured below is Sean with principal Dr. Rich Drolet. Raytheon and Many Others Teach Students about Careers Over 100 students from 10 local middle schools recently attended fascinating interactive college‐based workshops with titles like “Electro Physics of Music”, “Applying the Engineering Design Process”, “The Fundamentals of Flight”, “Exploring Genetics and Gene Therapy”, and “Lung Surgery with Cameras and Robotics.” On Saturday, November 1, Blackstone Valley Education Foundation and Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University co‐
sponsored the Blackstone Valley S.T.E.M. Conference on the Tufts Grafton campus. Representatives from Raytheon, EMC, Saint‐Gobain, Department of Forensic Science at Mt. Ida College, Aero Venture Institute, Douglas Public Schools, Tufts University, UMASS Medical Center, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, and Mass Digi conducted numerous career‐
focused workshops for the attending students and teachers. Parents attended a comprehensive college planning and financial aid session conducted by the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation and Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA). Topic included how to maximize the high school experience academically and options for saving and paying for college. The students were chaperoned by Mrs. Martellio and Mrs. Clark. Pictured below are students who attended the STEM Conference on Nov. 1. St. John’s Math Meet On Wednesday, November 5, 2014, 25 students participated in the St. John’s invitational math meet in Shrewsbury. There were 11 eighth‐graders, 12 seventh graders, and two sixth‐graders that represented McCloskey Middle School. All students put in a great effort. The students were led by Mr. Sweet and Mrs. Legere and they placed/scored well, in the middle range of the other schools that competed. Community Newsletter
Page 10
MCCLOSKEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
Veteran’s Day Parade On Sunday November 9, the McCloskey Middle School band consisting of nearly 100 students in grades 6 through 8 participated in the Uxbridge Veterans' Day Parade. The students performed exceptionally well and represented the McCloskey Middle School and the town of Uxbridge with maturity beyond their age. Many parents and veterans in the community were impressed by the size of the group as well as how well they were prepared. Although the band represents the McCloskey Middle School community, they also represent the very community they are from. We are proud of the McCloskey Middle School band students of all grades for all of the hard work, commitment, and respect that they displayed through out the preparation as well as the parade. It was a great day and we would like to thank Mr. Hicks for leading the students. Book Fair The McCloksey Middle School 2014 Book Fair was a huge success! Running from November 3‐7, students and teachers were busy shopping for their newest favorite book. The Bridge Program students along with Mrs. Smutok and Mrs. Hendriks did a wonderful job designing the medieval decor and setting up the fair. Contests included, designing a reading is fun poster, guessing how many candy eyeballs were in the jar, and guessing how many pages were in the "knightly" book. Book fair sales were high and McCloskey earned a profit of approximately $2000.00 to purchase new books for the school library! Those new purchases will benefit the entire school! Many thanks to the parent volunteers who helped run the fair, the Bridge Program students and staff who created amazing visuals, and also Mrs. Chauvin! Learning Lab Thanksgiving Feast The students in the Learning Lab at the McCloskey Middle School have been working so hard this year on their life skills! One of the skills they have been working on is cooking. We have been cooking a variety of different foods on a weekly basis. So it was time to put their talents to work and host a Thanksgiving feast for their parents. The students planned and actively participated in all aspects of their feast. They first picked a date and time, they made a menu, and then made a grocery list. The students made all the decisions and they all had an active role in the decision‐
making. Their menu consisted of turkey, potatoes, green bean casserole, corn, squash, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, rolls, and of course apple pie and ice cream! We thank Mrs. Bradshaw, Mrs. Dionne, and Mrs. Connors for coordinating this event. November Students of the Month McCloskey Middle School is pleased to announce the November "Students of the Month." Teachers chose students and these students have shown leadership and/or demonstrated integrity. Pictured below and standing left to right are Mica McLaren (gr. 7), Emily Dullaghan (gr. 7), Alex Keeler (gr. 8), Thomas Breau (gr. 6), Jessica Schelin (gr. 7), Ashley Collins (gr. 7), Alexa Kearnan (gr 8), Conner Bucchino (gr. 7), Scott Shaw (gr. 8), Morgan Martellio (gr. 7), Shayla Seymour (gr. 8), Tommy Schreiber (gr. 6), and Anastasia Achiaa (gr. 6). Crystal Apple It is with great pleasure that McCloskey Middle School presents our second annual Crystal Apple award to 8th grade mathematics teacher Mrs. Sue Legere! Mrs. Legere works tirelessly in the classroom to ensure her students are engaged and learning at all times. Mrs. Legere provides a consistent, structured learning environment and she understands the middle level learner extremely well. She has a great sense of humor and her belief that all students are capable of learning is unwavering. Mrs. Legere refuses to give up on any students and her enthusiasm for her students and her work are infectious. Mrs. Legere is an effective Team Leader and she also volunteers her time organizing and accompanying students to math meets, as well as chaperoning dances. Pictured below is Mrs. Legere holding the Crystal Apple. UXBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
Page 11
Community Newsletter
Principal’s Message The 2014‐15 school year is rolling along with great things happening both in and out of the classroom. Through the Guidance Department’s Career Cluster Workshop series in November and December, students heard from experts in the Criminal Justice and Engineering fields about various career pathways ‐‐ two additional career cluster workshops will be presented later this school year. Some students visited the State House with history teacher Mr. Silbor while students in chemistry toured Cubist Pharmaceuticals with chemistry teacher Mrs. Larkin. Mrs. Lesperance’s Life Skills students hosted a wonderful Holiday luncheon for their parents/guardians and UHS staff. Our musicians dazzled us with beautiful singing and playing at the annual holiday concert as well as when Chinese principal, Mr. Shang, visited Uxbridge in November. Students in family consumer science baked 125 mini breads to support families at the Food Pantry during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. They also prepared beautiful cookie trays for the Uxbridge First Night celebration. Project Lead the Way students built cars using solar energy while 9th graders in Physics‐
Technology worked collaboratively on creating their mouse trap cars. Students in health class created videos that addressed bullying while students in Law debated in‐class on a number of social issues. The 17th annual Holiday Party on December 6, organized by staff members Hurley Silbor, Becky Wise, and Wendy Hamelin, and supported by over 100 UHS student volunteers and many other staff members was a great success and a lot of fun! Donations of gifts went to Toys‐for‐Tots. Finally, the UHS Student Council continued their strong support of the Uxbridge Food Pantry with a book drive and Caroling for Can Goods. Best wishes for the New Year. Athletic Department Congratulations to Mark Donahue on his induction to the Massachusetts Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame 2014. Mr. Donahue was honored on November 23rd at the Hogan Center at The College of the Holy Cross. Mr. Donahue was introduced by Dean Tourangeau, and had his family, colleagues, and friends in attendance to celebrate this well deserved honor including former principal Kent Bailey who hired Mr. Donahue in the fall of 1977. Winter Sports Captains Boys Basketball : Jim Caffrey, Cam Gallagher, Dan Lanoue, Jake Taparausky Girls Basketball : Anna Dubois, Melissa Morton, Alex Van Loon Boys Indoor Track: Alex Kuros, Ian St. Pierre, Eric Silveira Girls Indoor Track: Jess Fitzgerald, Sandy Ghobrial Southern Worcester County League All Stars ‐ Fall 2014 Golf: Justin Pickering – First Team Boys Cross Country: Nate Manz – First Team; Carson Turcotte – Second Team; Christian Pasichny – Second Team Girls Cross Country: Sandy Ghobrial – First Team, Jackie Cafferelli – First Team; Cassie Lobe – First Team; Cailee King – Second Team Boys Soccer: Ryan Morais – First Team; Travis Brown – Second Team; Alex Kuros – Second Team Girls Soccer: Jessica Fitzgerald – First Team; Melissa Morton – Second Team Field Hockey: Jaycee Garrigan Football Division 5 All Stars: Anthony Abate, Jake Taparausky Worcester Telegram and Gazette All Star Team – Jake Taparausky Guidance Department Mrs. Biondi assisted with chaperoning a group of students to Cubist Pharmaceuticals. She toured some labs (including an infectious disease lab) and spent an hour with a computational chemist, learning a great deal about the field of biochemistry. These types of activities are always beneficial to counselors who assist students with career exploration and decision making. The Guidance Department continues to assist seniors with the college admissions process and in the actual processing of applications. On December 8, UHS hosted a Financial Aid Night to provide an overview of how financial aid works and provide resources to students and parents. PSAT results were shared with sophomores and juniors on December 10, with Mr. Burke giving a presentation to sophomores and juniors on what the results mean and how students can improve scores through free resources offered by the College Board. On December 11, Mr. Burke provided a similar presentation to parents in the form of a PSAT Breakfast. Mrs. Biondi organized a workshop on careers in Engineering that took place on December 12. All freshmen and sophomores attended and juniors and seniors were invited. Ms. Wendy Storm from MassMEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership) and three engineers from EMC provided an overview of careers in Engineering. The engineers from EMC also shared their personal stories on what lead them to choose their specific career paths. UXBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
Page 12
Community Newsletter
English Department As always, the focus of the English Department is reading and writing analytically. Some very exciting things are happening in our classrooms this month. To assist in the process of writing development, the AP Language and Literature class read and edited drafts of freshman essays. This assists in the AP students’ ability to read constructively and improve structural writing, while aiding the freshman by providing peer feedback on their writing. Projects on character development in To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee are ongoing in many Freshman English classes; while others are working on archaic language in Romeo & Juliet. Science Department As Uxbridge HIgh School continues to develop a strong STEM education program, we have been working on efforts to provide students with a connection between classroom science and the science that drives our biotechnology industry. Spartan students had the opportunity to participate in a Career Exploration Day at Cubist Pharmaceuticals in Lexington, MA. Through this experience the students gained first‐hand knowledge of the activities and responsibilities industry employees engage in on a daily basis. It was an exciting day for everyone involved and we are extremely thankful to Cubist Pharmaceuticals for opening up their doors for this educational experience. More events, such as this one, are in the works. Special Education Department The Life Skills class has had a busy month. Students recently completed a unit on lifestyle diseases. Students also worked on projects on the topic of hygiene. Writing practice continues as students work on constructing paragraphs and short essays. Students also continue to work on individual math skills. Student Council This month, Student Council participated in volunteering during First Night on December 6, for two different organizations. We hosted a “Homeroom Challenge” in which two delegates walk around and collect donations from each homeroom which will be donated to the Rotary Club to buy new coats for children. Two students volunteered for an event called “Adopt‐A‐Family” which includes going out and purchasing presents and a Christmas dinner for a family in the community. The Executive Board hosted the Usborne Book Fair where proceeds are used to buy books for children at the food pantry. Finally, on December 18, Student Council members along with members of the Chorus participated in “Caroling for Canned Goods” which supports donations to the food pantry. UXBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
Page 13
Community Newsletter
Principles of Engineering Students in Principles of Engineering have just finished a unit on renewable energy. They have designed and built a vehicle that uses hydrogen fuel cells, along side solar panels. Upon completion of the renewable energy vehicle, the students have been investigating options for a renewable insulation. The students then tested their ideas using a thermodynamics heat box to calculate the amount of heat loss and R‐value of their renewable insulation. Manufacturing Engineering Students in Manufacturing Engineering class have been learning about advanced joinery techniques which are used by engineers in industry to make products stronger, and better constructed. Projects students are working on include, a spindle table, boxes for pets to sleep in, and several book shelves. Performing Arts Department Ensemble: The ensemble classes have been busy this December! The Winter Concert was held on December 9 and featured the Concert Choir, Concert Band, Jazz Band and Spartones. The Pep Band performed for the Varsity Boys Basketball game on Friday 12/12 versus Blackstone‐Millville. It was a great game with Uxbridge winning 62‐25! Go Spartans! The Ensembles joined forces with the Student Council and went “Caroling for Canned Goods” on December 18 to benefit the Food Pantry. Finally, the C Block classes went Classroom Caroling on Friday, December 19 to spread some holiday cheer before the winter break! Fundamentals of Guitar: Guitar students have been working hard learning to play duets and trios. This is much different than playing solo, because you can’t stop if you make a mistake and fix it ‐ you have to keep moving ahead. This involves teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration. They are doing a nice job! Music Technology: The music tech class spent December learning about audio recording, mixing, and editing. Projects included a “Mixlib” and editing the UHS Winter Concert audio recording. Next up: adding audio to video! Drama: Cast and Crew are hard at work preparing “High School Musical” for production on March 13, 14, and 15! It’s going to be a great show! Community Newsletter
Page 14
SENIORS OF THE MONTH
Two seniors (one boy, one girl) are nominated monthly by the faculty and staff at Uxbridge High School to receive recognition as Senior of the Month. Considerations for nomination include: demonstrate willingness to assist others, have good academic standing but do not need to be an A student, be respectful of others and self, be a good citizen, and be involved with school/community service. Upon selection by the administration, the Seniors of the Month will have their pictures and brief write‐ups displayed in the front lobby of the high school for recognition. Jumbo Donuts is graciously supporting the senior of the month with jumbo bucks. Alexandra Wojnowski
Jonathan Calderon
Alexandra “Allie” Wojnowski has a unique and creative
style that no one can match. Her ability to put words on
paper or create a beautiful piece of art is a talent she
embraces. Allie is a dependable young woman with a
touch of flair and spice added to anything she
touches. Over the past year, Allie has found her niche in
the visual arts program embarking on a pathway that will
hopefully use her artistic abilities to their fullest. She
enjoys fashion, and is usually one to display her keen
sense of design in her dress. Her passion for the arts
took her to the Rhode Island School of Design PreCollege program this past summer for an intense sixweek program. This opportunity provided Allie with
sense of grit it will take to make it as an artist – and she
is ready to go! A solid student in the classroom, Allie’s
A- average includes honors and Advanced Placement level
courses as well as an array of courses that have
supported her interest. Her favorite subject is AP
American Literature because “there’s no wrong
answer” and because she truly enjoys writing. Allie is
diligent in completing her work on time and is devoted to
math, writing, and art. Her leadership outside the
classroom is evident with her devotion to our award
winning Student Council. Elected president this year,
Allie is dedicated to bringing new and innovative
community projects to the council. She provides a sense
of stability, organization, and a strong work ethic to her
peers. Her leadership and collaboration skills provide a
strong foundation for her classmates to want to actively
participate and help out and to have a smooth running
council. Athletically, Allie participated on the varsity
soccer team for three years, basketball team for two
years, and tennis team for four years. Her motivating
personality in the classroom, and in student council,
easily transfers to her success in athletics. A result of
Allie’s well-balanced focus was her induction to the
National Honor Society junior year. Allie Wojnowski is a
special treasure at Uxbridge High School. We wish her
all the best in her future endeavors.
The pathway leading Jonathan Calderon to his senior
year at Uxbridge High School goes beyond the
comprehension of many. A native of Guatemala,
Jonathan entered the Uxbridge school system in
seventh grade. Challenged to learn a new language and
culture, Jonathan was determined to make the best of
his situation by working hard both in and outside of
school.
During
his
junior
year,
Jonathan’s
determination received a severe blow when he was
forced to find to find an alternate living situation due
to extenuating family circumstances. Fortunate to
have a generous and interested family open their home
to Jonathan, he has rebounded nicely and is working
through his plans for the future high. Jonathan is an
upbeat, energetic, hardworking, and humorous
person. While his work in the classroom has produced
average grades, it is his strong desire to learn that
guides him to be a solid student. It is this display of
perseverance that has earned Jonathan the respect of
his teachers and the recognition of senior of the
month. Jonathan enjoys learning about history and the
impact of decisions and situations that have shaped
our present and will inform our future. However, it is
his talent with problem-solving, tinkering, and fixing
things that has him interested in an engineering
career. Jonathan has been a contributing member of
the varsity soccer team for the past two years,
enjoying the competition he’s encountered and
friendships he’s made. He is a member of the drama
club, serving on our illustrious stage crew, and he holds
a part time job at Lampin, a local manufacturing
company as a machine operator. Jonathan’s story is
an inspiring one of struggles, successes, and the grit
required
to
succeed
under
challenging
circumstances. The community of students and
teachers at Uxbridge High School is proud to have
been supporting characters in his story and we feel
sure the story will have a happy ending. Good luck in
the next chapter of your life, Jonathan.
Community Newsletter
Page 15
DISTRICT CALENDAR – JANUARY 2015
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
1 No School
2 Winter Recess
Sat
3
School Closed
No Day Care
4
11
5 Classes Resume
6 High School
Taft ELC
PreK &K
Registration all
week-9:00 am
Booster Club Mtng –7pm
PSG Meeting -7 pm
Taft ELC
Staff Meeting
PreK&K
Registration all week
High School
7
8
Whitin Elem
PTO Mtng-7pm
McCloskey
PTO Mtng-6:30pm
High School
PAC Meeting-7pm
School Committee
Meeting 7 pm
13
14
High School
UFM Mtng-7pm
25
19 Martin Luther
King Day
No School
20
26
27
21
Class of 2015 Movie
Night-6pm
15
District Crisis Team
Mtng – 9:30 am @
McCloskey School
Taft ELC
PTO Mtng
High School
Minute to Win It – 7pm
22
16 Prof. Day
No Classes
17
23
24
Dodge Ball
Tournament 8-4 pm
@ McCloskey
McCloskey
School Council
Mtng 3pm
28
29
10
High School
PSG Meeting -7 pm
UHS Crisis Team
Meeting-1pm
Faculty Mtng-2:05pm
18
9
30 McCloskey
½ day – Parent Conf.
SCHOOL COUNCIL MEETINGS
JANUARY 2015
Taft Early Learning Center
January 27
3:45PM
Whitin Elementary School
January 8
3:30PM
McCloskey Middle School
January 27
3:00PM
Uxbridge High School
January 13
3:15PM
31