USA > Massachusetts > Norfolk County > Plainville > Plainville, Massachusetts annual reports 1942-1950 > Part 5
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Pupil Accounting
Pupil accounting attempts to follow the same general pro- cedures of discovery of the facts and a study of the causes in the progress of a pupil's educational experience that the financial accounting does in the analysis of the business firm's financial status. One of the most reliable measures of the educational progress of a pupil in his school career is the Iowa Every Pupil Test of Basic Skills. This set of tests has been used for two years and the general outline of them given in past reports. With the results of this work now available for comparison this year's results will be far more meaningful and valuable in analyzing the educational progress of both the individual pupil and each class. The results of these standard achievement tests are recorded both in numerical tables and in graphs or charts which show at a glance the exact point of progress in the basic skills of the school program and also the amount of change from year to year. Each teacher is studying these records with those made under her instruction. The high school teachers now have a sizeable accumulation of educational data for their pupil accounting studies. Each teacher in both elementary and high school selects at the beginning of each month one pupil for an individual study with all of the accumulated data concerning that pupil, then carries on her own study during that month with various measures, tests, or by individual study and confer-
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ences to try, by every means possible, to have a complete analysis of all the elements that go to determine the progress or lack of progress in that individual case. These conclusions are then put into written form and filed with the other records of that pupil for the assistance of other teachers. The aim of this work is to make as scientific study of the teaching problems as pos- sible with every means at our disposal with the educational growth of the individual pupil and finally of the whole class as the ultimate aim of each teacher.
PLAINVILLE JUNIOR-SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Mr. F. Sumner Turner, Principal
The pressure of the many activities in which the schools have taken part in the past year has tended to obscure the fact that the most outstanding achievement of 1942 in the Plainville Public Schools has been the establishment of a Junior-Senior High School as one administrative and educational unit. Indeed, the successful accomplishment of this organization is an achieve- ment outranking any for many years. Our school system has been extremely fortunate in securing an outstanding corps of teachers at the start of this new organization. Many of the demands during the past year have been met fully because of this organization and in many cases the result would have been impossible without it. The success of the first year promises definitely that the educational results will steadily grow from this new plan. I recommend that a survey be made of the voca- tional needs of both boys and girls. Vocational education is the outstanding need for continuing the reorganization of our secondary school education. One additional full-time teacher will be essential for this purpose. A second result of an addi- tional teacher will be to release the principal from some of his present classes and thus allow more time for the administration of the school and supervision of classes. The adjustment of the high school to the wartime demands and many of the detailed accomplishments of the new organization are well set forth in the report of the principal. Therefore, I quote in full his second annual report and the first of the Plainville Junior-Senior High School. While these accomplishments were possible under the
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new plan, I believe the major credit for them goes to Mr. Turner because of his pleasing personality, untiring energy, and enthusiasm.
"The administration of a secondary school becomes a great- er responsibity as the present conflict progresses more and more toward total war. Each day we perceive our normal way of life altered by the impact of war and we would be false to our trust if we did not make our children ready for what is ahead of them. In addition to our rationing problems, our transporta- tion difficulties, our shortages of one kind or another, and our air raid precautions, there comes from varied sources the appeal to our schools that we aid the war effort by placing emphasis on:
Physical Training-our pupils must be physically fit.
Military Drill-our pupils should have the rudiments of basic training.
English-giving clear directions, making accurate concise reports.
Mathematics-Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonom- etry-computation for navigation, long range fighting, con- struction and engineering.
Physics-the principles of the engines of war, photography, radio, and the multitude of other mechanical devices.
Aeronautics-a preflight background.
Chemistry-the understanding of the chemical implication of rubber, plastic, petroleum, and a thousand other materials of warfare.
Astronomy and Meteorology-basis of navigation.
Mechanical Drawing.
Freehand Drawing and Perspective.
World Geography-an aid to the understanding of global war and later global peace.
Red Cross Work-first aid and home nursing.
Direct Material Aid-stamps and bonds, collection of papers and scrap, metal and fats, and so forth.
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"The above items by no means exhaust the list. With so much expected of the secondary school and so little time free from interruption and a lack of qualified help and material, the problem of maintaining a sound school program is tremendous. The war is our first concern. Life will not be worth living if we do not win it. Therefore, those activities which contain promise of aiding the war effort are being given our first attention.
"Last Spring it was decided to reorganize the upper seven grades of our school system. In general, the plans called for the establishments of our Junior and Senior High School under a single administrative head, to use the entire building and scientific equipment for all grades, to make available for all grades the specialized abilities of the various teachers, and to operate on a single session commencing at 8:30 and lasting to 2:00 P. M. This organization has given a greater flexibility to the school staff and school plant which has proven its worth many times during the past year. It has allowed more easily the introduction of many new courses of study to fit our war needs, namely, Aeronautics, a course in preflight training for Juniors and Seniors, Trigonometry for Seniors, Civics for Grade nine, General Science for grades seven and eight, Physical Edu- cation for boys and girls of grade six, seven and eight, Military Drill for boys of grades nine, ten, eleven, and twelve. It is hoped that after the half year Physical Education may be added for the girls of grades nine, ten, eleven, and twelve thereby completing a full physical education program.
"It was most satisfying to note that when Dr. John W. Studebaker, Commissioner of Education of the United States, called on all High Schools to immediately revamp their programs so that every Senior boy would receive all the instruction in aeronautics, physics, trigonometry, and physical education of which he was capable that all the boys in the Senior class were already studying in classes of aeronautics and physics and three-all that were qualified-were studying trigonometry. On December 7-the anniversary of Pearl Harbor-military drill was instituted as a full fledged course coming twice a week. Major Edward Osterholm, of the Plainville Security Unit, will- ingly assisted in the organization of this class and appointed Sergeant George Grzenda to instruct the boys in the fundamen- tals of basic military manual of arms. The boys are displaying great interest and already make a fine appearance.
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"It was a source of pleasure to learn that in spite of all the enticements of the business and industrial world of today, that every pupil entitled to be a member of Plainville High School returned to his studies in September. At the present time, three boys are eligible for Selective Service but under the present law their induction may be postponed until the close of school in June.
"Until the bottom fell out of the scrap paper market, the pupils of the school had done a remarkable job collecting and selling scrap paper. The co-operation of the residents of the town was very excellent and very much appreciated by the school. At the close of the endeavor, 67,391 pounds had been collected and sold, netting a profit of $215.15. The sum was used for the most part to purchase an 8 ft. by 10 ft. glass beaded projection screen and opaque curtains. A microphone was also purchased making our equipment very much more useful in English classes.
"The magazine campaign was the most successful in the history of the school, rising to a grand total of $751 of sub- scriptions sold and giving the school a net profit of $210. This selling campaign gives splendid opportunities to the pupils in selling and organization, but from the school's standpoint it gives us a chance to earn a considerable sum of money in a clean, speedy way and relieves us from countless other money making devices spread throughout the entire year. This year with transportation considerably reduced and attendance limited at school functions, this fund will enable the school to operate its necessary extra curricular activities. Also, this fund backs up the assembly motion picture programs.
"Plainville Junior and Senior High School has entered into the war effort to the full extent of its ability. All possible air raid precautions and drills have been taken. All pupils and teachers were given the air raid warden's course. The victory corps is rapidly being organized. Arrangements are being made for the teaching of first aid beginning with the second half year.
"The attendance in the four upper grades showed an in- crease of ten pupils while the lower three were decreased by seven. Special attention has been given to the problem of pupil electives and this year should see most of the inadequate pro-
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grams built up to a good working basis. Algebra I and Biology were made required courses. The inclusion of these courses as part of the required course has long been needed.
"Due to present day conditions there has been naturally a great shift in the desires of pupils from the Language and Commercial courses to those courses in Mathematics and Sciences. These extra demands were taken up to a considerable extent by the reorganization of the school. Nevertheless, as the war progresses more and more demands are being made upon the school and the time and energy of the teaching force has long been overtaxed. Another teacher available for use in the Junior and Senior High would greatly ease this problem. It would permit more time to be given to essential courses, more supervision of study-a crying need,-and more supervision of classes.
"Mr. Nourse, in these trying times, it has been a comfort indeed to have the pleasure of working with you, and to receive the benefit of your experience, advice, and patience. Also, I wish you would extend to the School Committee my appreciation of their untiring effort and enthusiasm for the activities of the school."
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Miss Madeline E. Bartell, Principal
"The reading program was reorganized in the Primary School during the past few years. In order to reorganize the program and adjust it satisfactorily to meet the needs of all children it was necessary to carry on numerous experiments. The program as it is now set up is a combination of all the experiments which proved worthwhile in the development of reading power for the majority of the boys and girls in the Primary School.
"In order to conduct an experiment in the field of reading it was necessary first: to investigate much of the research in
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this field and to analyze previous results; second: to study and analyze current systems of reading; and third: to visit other schools using various systems.
"The new system which evolved from this exhaustive study is a combination of several prescribed reading systems.
"In the first grade children are put through a program de- signed to prepare them for learning to read with a minimum of difficulty and confusion. A child is not exposed to the printed page until he as an individual is ready to move his eyes from left to right; to see symbols clearly; to recognize likenesses and differences in symbols; to comprehend meaning of printed symbols and translate meaning into words; to concentrate on simple tasks independently; and to relate simple sequences of ideas. These abilities plus numerous other habits must be learned before actual reading takes place. Once these habits are well formed children read several pre-primers-not just one-until reading habits are well established and confidence is felt in the mastery of a small reading vocabulary of about seventy-five to eighty words. Children are then exposed to sev- eral primers until vocabulary and sentence structure of primer level is mastered with ease and fluency. Following this, children read in the first reader level and again numerous first readers
are read-until the children proceed from first reader to second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth-etc. A child proceeds as rapidly as he is personally able. Last year under the new system eight children in first grade completed all the reading levels one and two and were reading books of third reader difficulty. All other children were reading with ease and fluency at their respective levels and without confusion. The system of adjust- ing the reading to each child's level is carried on throughout all grades.
"Reading is a subject which must be mastered by a demo- cratic people if they wish to remain free. It is a subject children must learn not by choice but by necessity. Children have to study it whether they find it difficult or not. Fluent reading comes after complete mastery of each successive step regardless of the length of time necessary for the mastery to be achieved.
"Much misunderstanding and confusion has resulted from the much discussed topic of phonics or phonetic elements. This
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subject being so closely related to reading was investigated and studied along with various reading systems. It was found that the sanest and safest method of building word power was by adapting a plan worked out by Dr. Donald D. Durrell, Dean of the School of Education at Boston University and his associates. Boys and girls are learning phonics and phonetic elements with understanding now not just because an adult says something is so as was the case in the past. This type of teaching and learn- ing is slower in the beginning than verbatim memory but it has proven much more lasting and useful to the individual. The system planned by Dr. Durrell and his associates is used in all five grades in the building so there is now a definite, sound, and logical system for the teachings of 'word analysis' or in other words 'sounds of letters and groups of letters.'
"This present system is not to be considered a final and lasting method for the teaching of reading in the Primary School. It is, rather, to be considered a definite step in adjust- ing the teaching and materials to the children's needs rather than trying to force the children to fit the material and instructions."
MUSIC
Mrs. Harriet F. Washburn, Supervisor
"Last year particular stress was made in Eurhythmics in all of the grades. This work culminated in a program showing the development of ability in rhythmic response. In the first two grades freedom of expression with only a small amount of definite instruction was given. Then simple singing games, South American songs and rhythmic music, Swedish folk dances and square dances followed, ending with a grand march by children of the five upper grades. This showed the development of concentration and coordination.
"The usual rote singing, reading of music and simple theory continued in the first five grades, while more difficult theory was taught in the upper three grades, with two and three part songs where special emphasis was made on tone and enunciation.
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"Miss Trulson did a great deal with the Swedish folk dances and appreciation of music.
"The Grammar School glee club got a great deal of enjoy- ment from learning to sing the lovely South American songs which were part of the program for the eighth grade graduation.
"The High School glee club showed a real cooperative spirit and an interest in the development and improvement of its work.
"This fall it has been my great pleasure to have two classes in Junior High School to teach once a week. In the 8th and 9ath grades we are adding to the usual curriculum some ele- mentary harmony in which the boys and girls are showing interest. Their ability to read more quickly and accurately has improved, but I still want to see more gains made in that direction.
"Radio programs and music appreciation cover the rest of the work and both of these are correlated with history, geog- raphy and English."
ART
Mrs. Rowena B. Rice, Supervisor
"Angelo Patri says 'Art is one of the finest character builders'. In the Plainville schools I have endeavored to build character through the art experiences. Confidence gained through art has often been felt in other subjects and improve- ment has been noted. From grade I-VIII creative expression has been emphasized in the various problems such as illustra- tions of child's own experiences at home, in work and play, design applied to useful articles, lettering, posters, color har- monies, costumes, interiors and exteriors of homes. Some fine murals were finished in grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 correlating with History, Geography, and Literature. Outdoor sketching was introduced into the 6th, 7th and 8th grades, giving the pupil
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an opportunity to work out simple problems in perspective with crayons, pencil and water color. The scenery for the grammar school graduation was made by the pupils in the 7th and 8th grades.
"A 'Buy War Bonds and Stamps' poster contest was held in the town hall. Posters were submitted from grades 6, 7 and 8 and the high school art classes. Awards in war saving stamps were given by the P .- T. A. Grade 8,-1st prize, Madeline Onorr; 2nd prize, William Nowick; 3rd prize, Violet Armitage. High School-1st, prize, Jane Patton; 2nd prize, Eileen Feid; 3rd prize, Dorothy Mathewson.
"In the High School the classes were art, mechanical draw- ing and handicraft. Outdoor sketching, object drawing, life drawing, design, color, lettering (Old English Roman Capitals and modern poster), pen and ink technique, costume design, flower arrangements. In water color, posters, stained glass were among the completed problems.
"In handicraft in the High School such articles as tooled metal plaques, stenciled and block printed skirts, decorated pins, stenciled Christmas cards, pottery bowls and animals, felt animals for coat ornaments were completed. The mechanical drawing classes have maintained an excellent standard in prob- lems of sheet metal, blueprint reading, projections, airplane designs and original garden plans.
"An exhibition was held in June in the High School Art Room with a fine attendance of appreciative parents and friends.
"The awards for the 'Be Kind To Animals' posters were given to the following pupils: In grade 8-Betty Osterholm, 1st; Winston Evans, 2nd; in grade 7-Edward Dion, 2nd prize and Rose Marie Caron, Honorable Mention."
SCHOOL PHYSICIAN Dr. John T. Cotter
"In May a pre-school diphtheria clinic was held at which 17 children of pre-school age were immunized against diph- theria. In October and November all of the school children were given routine examinations. The general health of the
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children was very good. No child who applied was refused athletic privileges. There was a marked improvement in the dental conditions which existed last year. The girls, especially, have taken the matter seriously and have had the necessary repairs made.
"In several children removal of tonsils and adenoids was recommended.
"At this time I wish to thank Mrs. Harris for her assistance this year and Mrs. Maddocks for her assistance last year, in aiding with the examinations."
SCHOOL NURSE
Mrs. Ruah M. Harris
The report of the school nurse outlines the school clinics, conferences, and examinations during the past year. The diph- theria prevention work was carried on by the school physician and school nurse with 17 children participating. All pupils in both schools were given the annual physical examination by the school physician, assisted by the school nurse. This report tabulates the results of these examinations. Special attention was given to teeth and notices were sent home. No dental clinic was possible during the past year. The eye and ear examinations were carried on and remedial measures given with the assistance of parents and in certain cases of organizations such as the Kiwanis Club, the S.P.C.C., the Red Cross and the Junior Red Cross. The school lunch program was commended in this report for its help as a health measure.
CLOSING
The many problems of operating schools in war time and the unusual duties for the staff resulting from the war have received from you, the School Committee, careful consideration and cooperation.
Respectfully submitted,
LAURENCE G. NOURSE,
Superintendent of Schools
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PLAINVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION EXERCISES, JUNE 24, 1942
Program
Processional Seniors
Invocation Reverend J. Melbourne Bowmar
Salute to the Flag Audience
"America" (1st and 4th verses) Audience
Essay-"Educational Planning Before, During and After War Service" Willa Hamant
Essay-"Opportunities in the Service
Ralph Lindquist Branches"
High School Glee Club-
"White Cliffs of Dover" Kent and Burton "Evening Prayer" from Hansel & Gretel . Humperdinck
Essay-"Opportunities for Women in
Wartime"
Hope Beyersdorfer
Essay-"Plainville High School Looks at the
War" Frank Grzenda
High School Orchestra-
Echoes from Grand Opera Arr. by Herfurth
Presentation of Awards to the Graduates and Undergraduates:
Plainville High School Alumni Awards by Mr. Charles O. Peasley, President of the P. H. S. Alumni Assn.
Washington and Franklin History Medal awarded by the Massachusetts Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Good Citizenship Pilgrimage Award of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
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Diplomas presented by Mr. Harvey C. Morse,
Chairman of the School Committee
"Star Spangled Banner" Audience
Benediction Reverend J. Melbourne Bowmar
Recessional Graduates
Class Officers
President Robert Henry Rammel
Secretary Barbara Elizabeth Martin
Treasurer N. Russell Clentimack
Valedictorian Hope Iris Beyersdorfer
Salutatorian Willa Jane Hamant
Class Roll
College Preparatory Course
Louise Patricia DesJardins
Willa Jane Hamant
Commercial Course
Steven John Babiec Ruth Eleanor Feid
Hope Iris Beyersdorfer Katharine Virginia Giacomino Alice Marie Boelker
General Course
N. Russell Clentimack
Gordon Stuart Proal
Charles Henry Dorothy
Robert Henry Rammel
Francisek H. Grzenda Robert M. Gardner
Barbara Elizabeth Martin
Murielle Ann Skinner
Edward George Sousa Frank Hazen Stevens .
Ralph Ivar Lindquist
Class Motto
"Perseverance Conquers"
Class Colors
Class Flower
Maroon and White
American Beauty Rose
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PLAINVILLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL GRADUATION EXERCISES, JUNE 17, 1942
Program
Invocation Reverend J. Melbourne Bowmar
PAN-AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP FOR VICTORY
This original program is an outgrowth of a unit on South America. Our conclusion-To insure victory in our fight to pre- serve democracy it is essential that we become better acquainted with our neighbors to the South, who share our determination to protect and safeguard American democracy. We must establish solidarity in our western hemisphere through sincere friend- liness, neighborliness, and understanding. If united, we shall triumph in our common cause.
Spirit of Pan-American Friendship Betty Osterholm
American Correspondent in Argentina Edward Beetlestone
I
Argentina Speaks Albert Welton Rita Renner, Lorraine Pink, Helen Babiec, William Nowick "Sweet Sugar Cane" Song "The Tango" Dance
II
Chile Speaks Phyllis DesJardins Harold Hemmingsen, Velma Kettell, Kenneth Barney "Palapala" Song and Dance
III
Peru Speaks Madeline Onorr Marion Davis, Gloria Peck, William Ronhock
"Lullaby"-A Folk Song , by Girls' Chorus
IV
Uruguay Speaks Milton Bacheller Sheldon Smith, Violet Armitage, Nancy Wier "Sirup Is So Sweet" Song "Bambuco" Dance
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V
Venezuela Speaks Merton Childs
Francis Voyer, Dorothy Works, John Cooper, Raymond Paul "The Lovely Lace Weaver" ... Folk Song of Paraguay
VI
Brazil Speaks Ruth Everett Shirley Avery, Winston Evans, Sidney Maddocks
"To a Tiny Cottage"-Modhina from Brazil Song "Conga" Dance
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