USA > Massachusetts > Bristol County > Attleboro > Reports of town officers of the town of Attleborough 1931 > Part 17
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REPORT OF THE SUPERVISOR OF MUSIC
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
Singing in the Grades
Watching the gradual development of musical interest throughout the schools, I am more and more convinced that good school singing is the natural foundation of musical education. Keeping in mind always that the human voice is not a mechanical instrument, but a personality, we have endeavored to formu- late a few principles that have helped to make our school singing superior:
1. That all school singing be a joy and pleasure to the pupil.
2. That the voice be developed through worthy song material.
3. That finer points such as good flexible tone quality, intelligent phrasing, and expressive singing be stressed to give the pupil a clearer comprehension of the real beauty found in music.
From the beginning of a child's school life to graduation from the eighth grade, these are the principal points that are emphasized in his musical training in the schools.
We teach part singing in the grades for the sake of the musical pleasure it offers. You will observe that we are stressing the beauties of music rather than the mechanical side of note reading, and we are discovering that the ready response to all efforts to increase music reading ability and develop part singing has given added joy to the pupil in his participation in the music lesson. In the school buildings where halls are available to participate in the opening exercises, we find the singing of the entire school to be one of the most inspirational experiences in our school program. This is evident to anyone who visits Lincoln, Finberg and the Bliss Schools, where the singing of the massed voices is a great pleasure. There has been a number of short operettas given in the grammar schools in which music is correlated with the other studies of oral expression and art. The work at Bliss, Richardson and Lincoln schools is deserving of note. At the Bliss School, the monthly assemblies where short plays with music have been given are especially helpful and interesting and have developed the musical talent in that school. The same may be said of the fine work at Richardson School, especially in their recent Christmas Operetta which was so beautifully performed, and where the singing was of a very high type of sensitive expression. The work at the Lincoln School along this line has been of a more ambitious character. This has developed to such a degree of perfection as to bring it before the general public in an evening performance where admission was charged. Two operettas have been given this year before a gathering that taxed the capacity of the hall, and an extra performance was given for the benefit of the Mayor's charity fund.
Instrumental Music in the Grades
In all grade schools where it is possible to do so, we have organized the instrumental forces into orchestra groups under a teacher in each building, and
ANNUAL REPORT
in the Lincoln, Sanford Street, Richardson, Bliss and Bank Street Schools we have small orchestras of interested children. These groups are one of the most interesting features of the Grammar School graduation. The players later become the nucleus of our High School orchestra.
Singing in the High School
There is a greater interest in singing in the High School at the present day than ever before. We find the singing period, where part singing is especially studied, larger in attendance. Our glee club of mixed voices also has grown in numbers, but the finest in singing which has developed this year is the assembly singing, where the entire school of 850 pupils sings together with the orchestra of 65 accompanying them. This exercise is one of the great thrills of our public school music, and has a socializing influence that is now, and will continue to be, one of great interest in the development of a spirit of co-operation and loyalty to the School.
Orchestra Work in the High School
The High School Orchestra maintains its standard of excellence, and re- mains as formerly an opportunity for the boy or girl who wishes to continue his or her instrumental work during the High School course.
Outside Credit Work in the High School
The outside credit courses in piano and voice have increased in numbers, and have proved the wisdom of the School Committee in enabling these pupils to continue their outside music lessons since credit is given for this work. The contributions which some of these pupils have given to the assemblies in their solos proves their appreciation of this opportunity.
There has never been a band in the High School. Our method has been that when a band was needed for games, to use the members of the orchestra who played wind instruments or to use the Boys' Club Band, which consists partly of school members and partly of working boys. Those of the orchestra who have been privileged to go to Boston to the band and orchestra contests have been thrilled by the marvelous appearance of school bands. Particularly in the Boston Garden last year, it was borne home to us not only the credit that reflected on the school whose band represented it, but the advertising value to the whole com- munity. Everyone who has followed inter-school games in the last ten years must have appreciated what tremendous interest these bands have created. At the recent inter town game, where the North Attleboro High School band made such a fine appearance, this has been brought home to the citizens of our own city. As a result, many comments concerning the desirability of organizing a band in our High School have been offered. For years I have wished to have a band of this type, for it would be an excellent institution, and I strongly recommend such a step when the School Committee feels it is in a position to finance such an organization. I am doubtful if the average citizen realizes the financial outlay that is necessary. The towns that produce these splendid organizations not only equip their students with their instruments and music, but pay for their lessons, provide uniforms, train a drum major and also in many instances, as in Pawtucket, hire a military man to train them in marching.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank the teachers for their hearty co- operation with the Music Department.
In concluding my report, I wish to thank you, and the members of the School Committee, for your kindness in permitting me to leave a few days early
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at the end of the school year in order to reach Athens in time to teach at the University of Georgia Summer School. The experience and inspiration gained from association with students and instructors from all parts of the country, particularly from New York City, I feel has proved of great help in my regular work in Attleboro.
Respectfully submitted, John Laing Gibb.
REPORT OF THE SUPERVISOR OF DRAWING
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
The State has sent out a course of study in art for the first six grades. This course is used along with our course as a guide to keep before us certain objectives. It will be a basis for our planning as we make changes in our course which does change somewhat every year.
Our work includes instruction in representation, design, color and apprecia- tion.
If art objectives are kept in mind, the grade teacher may often choose her own subject matter as she knows best the needs and interests of the children. Sometimes a school project determines the character of the drawing or design.
During the past year we have done some interesting work in our department. Some of the grades entered the State poster contest for prevention of cruelty to animals. Several prizes were received and many had honorable mention.
The poster is effective in commercial advertising and involves study of margins, color, balance, rhythm, emphasis and subordination. It takes time to make a good poster, but it is time well spent if when finished the children have time to discuss them on the basis of the art principles involved.
There seems to be interest in design. The work develops from simple, orderly arrangements to enriched and creative design.
The fifth grades have done some very good work. In some cases the children have been interested to work out the design on cloth from which they made sofa pillows. In all grades we are trying to find a practical application for the design.
The high school classes are a little larger than last year.
Last year we had an exhibit in our work in the high school gymnasium. This fall we made posters for the Community Chest Drive, some of which were on exhibition in one of the store windows. Posters were also made for various school activities.
For the first time we tried the old process of batik. We were pleased with the results, so batik has become one of our craft problems. Our other craft work is leather work and block printed paper and textiles. We have had some interest- ing block printed Christmas cards and wrapping papers. We would very much like to have a good block printing press.
With the assistant supervisor I attended an art conference in Boston called by the Department of Education. The main topic was Representation.
I know the possibilites of art in the lives of boys and girls. My ob- jective for the coming year is to test our methods to see that progress is evident.
Respectfully submitted,
Persis A. Crowell.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE TEACHER OF SEWING
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
I submit the following report of sewing for the past year.
Such changes have been made in the course of instruction as are necessary, each year, to keep the work up to date, both in methods used and style of garments made.
An important point in the fifth grade is to develop, along with the knowledge of the stitches, a real liking for sewing. This grade completed the work on plain hand stitches and hems and supplemented this with sewing outfit of needlebook, pincushion and workbag. The objective of grade six is to develop skill in sewing processes and introduce mending and household sewing.
Grade six studied seams with the different ways of finishing, mending rips darning stockings and made a pillowcase and either pajamas, bloomers or an apron'
In grade seven our especial aim is to develop an understanding of the care and repair of clothing from a standpoint of economy, and a sense of order and care in personal belongings. The work began with patches followed by work on buttonholes, and next the cooking apron, cap and holders were made.
During their twenty lessons the girls of grade eight completed a slip as a test of previous instruction, then made a dress, kimono or pajamas.
All of our work has been made most enjoyable by the hearty cooperation of the girls, who with few exceptions, seem to thoroughly enjoy their work and give us very creditable results.
Due to the economic conditions of the last year, there were a large number of girls who were unable to bring the necessary material for their work. These were, in part, taken care of by interested individuals and many thanks are due to Mrs. Fine for her great generosity in contributing to this need.
We feel that the year was, all in all, one of progress.
Respectfully submitted,
Minnie A. Walker.
REPORT OF VACATION SCHOOLS
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
The 1931 sessions of the Dodgeville and Hebronville vacation schools opened July 10 and closed August 21.
Owing to the fact that there was only one teacher at each school the classes in sewing and basketry were omitted. A class in weaving and other handwork was held at each school. The playground with apparatus was open every morn- ing.
Over three hundred articles such as pocketbooks, bags, mats, headrests, hammocks, caps, etc., were completed.
The girls' shower baths at the Finberg School were in constant use. The boys could not use the showers as we had no suitable attendant. It is to be hoped that this situation can be cared for another year.
Unfortunately we were able to do very little for the boys this year because of a shortage of teachers.
The average attendance for the combined playgrounds was about one hundred forty.
Respectfully submitted,
Martha J. Roberts.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
In my last year's report I stated that it was my purpose to develop a natural program in physical education consisting of free play, games, athletics and sports, dancing, stunts, self testing activities, posture work and recreational activities.
This with two objectives in mind. First, the harmonious development of the interests, capacities and abilities of the individual by means of natural activi- ties during childhood. Second, abundant interests, ideals and habits for a healthy, useful and therefore a happy adult life.
The program is progressing to my satisfaction. Teachers and Principals have given wonderful cooperation. Our teachers directly supervise both the outdoor game periods and the time set aside for indoor activities. Physical Education leaders are trained to aid in this work. Many teachers have given their time to aid me with the after school athletic program. I have also been greatly assisted in this work by former athletic pupils, now taking part in high school sports.
Particularly pleasing is the outdoor play program. Everyone takes part and everyone has a good time. Rough play has been particularly eliminated from our school playgrounds and this is all due to the efficient work of the teachers. There is a need here for much more equipment. Game balls last just so long even with the most careful usage. Each room should be supplied with a new ball at the start of the school year.
Of our indoor activities I want to mention particularly stunt work. Stunts are universal in their appeal. To test oneself in physical ways is worth while, not particularly for the resulting skill acquired, but for the process through which that skill is gained. There is something in human nature which demands achievement as an incentive to further development. Stunts are graded in difficulty. They must be achieved, and learning to do them requires particular adaptability to their increasing difficulty. Stunts are interesting and fulfill the play instinct in the child. Children enjoy doing stunts. All the big muscle groups are employed in such movements. They fit into the general aims of any physical education program for the purpose of presenting such situations as shall offer the individual ample opportunity for physical growth, mental stimula- tion and social adjustment.
Our time allotment consists of a ten minute period each day exclusive of two ten minute recesses, making thirty minutes a day or one hundred and fifty minutes per week per pupil. The after school athletic program, a summary of which follows, takes care of hundreds of pupils. To supervise this program correctly it is necessary that I give all my time up to six, seven and often eight o'clock on school days. In addition I work every Saturday morning throughout the school year coaching and conducting games. From early February to April I give preliminary training to the High School Track squad. Starting in April we meet three times weekly. Last season forty three boys received the benefits of this work. The team compiled the following record in competition with other High School teams:
5th Place-Out of State Class at Rhode Island State College.
A. H. S. 50-New Bedford Vocational 31
A. H. S. 56-Brockton High School Freshmen 7
A. H. S. 47-East Providence High School 34
A. H. S. 44-A. H. S. Alumni 55
3rd Place, 220 Yard Relay-LaSalle Academy, Providence.
In connection with eighth grade athletics I want to give the Bank Street School boys credit for going through their basketball season undefeated, the team having won twelve straight games.
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Summary of After-school Athletic Program
Spring Baseball-Bank Street and Bliss Eighth Grades-45 Boys, 8 Games. Football Fundamentals-Eighth Grades, 60 Boys, 3 Practice Sessions. Tennis-Boys' Grammar School Tournament-35 Boys, Won by Finberg School. Grammar School Soccer League-Bliss, Richardson, Tiffany, Sanford and Finberg Schools-5 Teams, 97 Players, 10 Games. Won by Finberg School
Basketball.
Bank Eighth Grade-14 Practices, Total of 280 Boys, 12 Game Schedule. Bliss Eighth Grade-13 Practices, Total of 140 Boys, 10 Games.
Lincoln Eighth Grade-Held own practices at own gym, no record of total number of boys taking part, 6 Games.
Grammar School Boys' League:
Sanford Street 6 practices 90 boys 6 games
Richardson 6 practices 90 boys 6 games Tiffany 6 practices 72 boys 6 games
Bliss 6 practices 78 boys 6 games
Finberg-Practiced at own gym.
No record of sessions
held. Played 6 Games.
League won by Sanford Street School.
Bank Street and Bliss Eighth Grade Girls, Bliss, Richardson, Tiffany and Sanford Street Seventh Grade Girls used the gymnasium during the month of March. Over one hundred and fifty girls met for one practice session weekly. Finberg and Lincoln school girls held practice sessions at their own gymnasiums.
Baseball.
Central School League-6 Teams, Richardson, Sanford Street, Tiffany, Bliss, Finberg and Lincoln. 120 Boys, 15 Games. League won by Finberg School.
Suburban School Series-3 Teams, Dodgeville, Farmers, Briggs Corner- 47 Boys, 6 Games. League won by Dodgeville School.
Bank Street Eighth Grade-11 Practices, 330 Boys, 10 Game Schedule
Bliss Eighth Grade 11 Practices, 187 Boys, 8 Game Schedule
Lincoln Eighth Grade Number of practices not known as they worked at South Attleboro. 6 Game Schedule.
Track.
Grammar School Meet-109 Boys, 3 Classes. Won by Richardson School.
This meet was held at the Bliss School grounds.
Eighth Grade Track Meet-38 Boys. Won by Bank Street School.
This meet was held at Hayward Field.
I want to express my appreciation to the Y. M. C. A. for the use of their gymnasium during the past season. A Posture Class from the Sanford Street School met there weekly, and the High School Track squad worked out there once a week for five weeks.
Thanking you for your cooperation, which has been of great value to me in my work, I am
Respectfully,
J. Ray Cooney.
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL PHYSICIAN
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
I submit, herewith, my annual report as school physician for the year ending December 31, 1931.
In making the physical examinations throughout the year, there was noted a reduction in both dental defects and diseased tonsils. This decrease in diseased tonsils reflects the added attention given to this condition by the parents, and to the recognition of early necessity of removal for promotion of the child's health.
Among the contagious diseases present during the year were numerous cases of scarlet fever. Measles, whooping cough and chicken pox were also reported, but the incidence of these diseases did not attain epidemic proportions.
Diphtheria prevention clinics were held in the first grades of the various schools. This was the continuance of a policy begun a year ago, in co operation with the local Health Department.
The nutrition work was continued throughout the year much the same as formerly. The problem of proper nutrition has now become more acute due to the effects of the business depression in which we find ourselves involved.
The closing of the open air room with its provision for properly caring for those children in need of special attention is to be deplored. It is earnestly hoped that some means may be devised for a reopening of this room at an early date.
The mental clinic conducted annually by Dr. Patterson of the Wrentham State School was carried out, as was the clinic under the direction of the State Department of Health for the prevention and early detection of tuberculosis.
Free vaccination clinics were held in the Finberg and Washington schools.
Child Health Day was repeated this year in the month of May and was a successful event, all of the schools taking part. The awarding of health tags to those physically fit or improved was greatly limited by the lack of a dental clinic for the proper care of teeth defects.
A series of lectures on health subjects was given to the teachers under the auspices of the Massachusetts Tuberculosis League.
Twelve girls were given two months' supervision at the Bristol County Health Camp as a result of the sale of Christmas Seals. This camp was conducted exclusively for girls. All showed the benefits of the camp at the end of that time. It is hoped that we may be able to send a greater number of girls to the camp next year.
The Attleboro Health Camp for boys took care of fifty children selected from a group of undernourished chosen from the schools. Many excellent gains were registered.
In closing I wish to mention the very efficient manner in which the school nursing is being carried out by the nurse, Mrs. Dorothy B. Wendell. The scope of her work is constantly enlarging and the facilities for properly carrying it on are diminishing annually. More follow-up work, more frequent school visits and increasing individual attention can only be given by the addition of another nurse to the staff; otherwise, some of these activities must be sacrificed in the name of economy.
A detailed report for the year follows:
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January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Totals
School Visits. .
20
12
15
17
20
17
15
19
13
14
162
Special Examinations
220
48
58
295
24
19
34
26
278
51
1053
Physical Examinations
646
391
603
89
24
379
226
2358
Office Visits.
6.4
50
113
134
137
42
55
67
60
46
768
Exclusions.
4
2
3
7
17
3
9
4 49
Examinations for Athletics
30
21
38
9
70
168
Vaccinations.
23
2
2
27
Home Calls.
2
2
First Aid
1
1
2
Working Certificates.
ti
3
9
4
1
5
5
11
20
10
2
5
81
Respectfully submitted, JESSE W. BATTERSHALL, M. D.
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL NURSE
Mr. Lewis A. Fales, Superintendent of Schools:
I herewith present my annual report.
The Annual Physical Examinations were completed by Dr. Battershall, School Physician, in March with the following notices sent home to the parents, notifying them of their child's defects:
1930-1931 1288 220 13
1929-1930 1440 With dental defects
320 Defective tonsils
12 Heart murmur
We hope that our attempt to educate both the parent and the child in the necessity of the correction of these defects has made the difference noticed above.
Home calls should follow up every slip sent out, including the eye and ear notices, but this past year curtailment has been necessary, and only the most needy cases have been visited. This is a very unsatisfactory arrangement when the desire is to do more rather than less.
Communicable Diseases-Scarlet Fever was very prevalent all during the school year-but no case has been reported this fall. A few cases of Diphtheria in the South Attleboro schools late last fall warranted the Board of Health to hold a large clinic for Diphtheria prevention in December where 281 children were given three innoculations against Diphtheria, 100 of them being school children. Fifty-eight first grade children from the central schools were innoculated by Dr. Battershall this fall, cooperating with the Board of Health. Few cases of Chicken Pox and Measles and Whooping Cough were reported, but this Fall we have been free of any diseases at all. The scare of Infantile Paralysis subsided as soon as the public knew there was but one actual school child who had the disease.
Nutrition work goes on in the schools as usual. Milk lunches are being served at 10 A. M. at a minimum price. Through the generosity of Mr. Finberg many children at the Tiffany and Finberg Schools were supplied with free milk last year. This year two principals of large outlying schools are furnishing hot cereal and milk to children they know have had no breakfast. Other thoughtful individuals have contributed small sums to be used for milk for children who can not afford it and are underweight.
It is with deep regret that the necessity for closing the Open air Room came at this time as the results were most gratifying.
Dr. Patterson of the Wrentham State School, visited us in April examining all the three year retarded cases which had not been done before, as well as re- examining a certain number and examining a few special cases. A better under- standing of the child and his needs as well as a better understanding for the parent and teacher is always gleaned from these last examined.
The State Clinic (Chadwick Clinic) under the 10 year program had two sessions here. One in March, when 11 children were X Rayed; and the other in May, when Dr. Martin and a Nutritionist examined the child and the X-Ray plate, with the parent present and advised for the ensuing year. Dr. Martin commented to Dr. W. O. Hewitt who was a visitor, that splendid work along the line of nutrition had been done in Attleboro.
A vaccination clinic in Hebronville was held by Dr. Battershall in May where 29 children were vaccinated free.
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