Town annual report for the town of Duxbury for the year ending 1926-1930, Part 34

Author: Duxbury (Mass.)
Publication date: 1926
Publisher: The Town
Number of Pages: 880

USA > Massachusetts > Plymouth County > Duxbury > Town annual report for the town of Duxbury for the year ending 1926-1930 > Part 34

Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).

In September we started with an enrollment of 22 pupils. At this time we had to have a change in teachers, Miss L. A. Peterson, from South Hamilton, taking the first and second grades in place of Mrs. Marianne (Coughlin) Hanigan.

We found our rooms nicely cleaned and the toilets painted. The new heater installed during the summer has proved a great improvement over the two previously used.

Our Junior Red Cross work has been sending Thanks- giving cards to the soldiers in the Portsmouth Hospital, filling Christmas stockings for soldiers and making scrap- books for hospitals.

The children are having real enjoyment from the books sent us from the library. One morning in November, the librarian came in and told them stories and they sang and recited to her. We find that visitors are a great in- centive to children.

Our supervisor's visits are always looked forward to with pleasure, and we want to thank all for their patience with us.

Just before school closed in June we gave Achievement Tests and in December, Intelligence Tests. I think these tests are a great benefit to the teachers and pupils.

The pupils have all been examined by the school phys- ician with the help of our nurse, who also makes her visits every week.

The third and fourth grades were transported to the High School to have their ears tested.

This brings my report up to December. Both rooms at this time united in giving a Christmas Entertainment to parents and friends and having a well-laden tree. Our great trouble at present seems to be need of settees or

ng r

-156-

movable chairs for visitors, for in this respect we are greatly handicapped in giving any sort of entertainment.

Our average per cent of attendance from September 1929 to January, 1930 was 95.28.

At this time I wish to express my appreciation to all who have helped during the past year. .

Respectfully submitted,

M. ABBIE BAKER,

Principal.

REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE VILLAGE SCHOOL

Mr. George E. Green,

Superintendent of Schools :

I herewith submit to you my second annual report. To give a full report of work done during the first four years of a child's school life would be to fill a volume. To present a resume of this work would result in giving a false impression of all that has been accomplished. An attempt will be made to compromise.

At the present time there is much confusion in the field of education, owing to many radical changes. On the one hand, we have educators who believe in the kin- dergarten type of training for primary pupils. They claim that the school environment should provide free- dom, with much opportunity for varied childlike activi- ties which are meant to continue from day to day and to gather momentum as they develop. Through these activities a knowledge of arithmetic and the other sub- jects is devloped.

On the other hand, we have those who advocate the old-fashioned, rather military type of teaching, wherein

th ti di

the th

-157-

the formal subjects are taught as they used to be-mainly through much formal drill.

It seems to me to be the part of wisdom to combine the two types and to give to each a fair share of atten- tion. The activity program provides opportunity for in- dividual expression, but it may be overdone to the neglect of the formal subjects. At the same time, all dead material should be discarded from the curriculum, and we should discipline and encourage our pupils as individ- uals, and lead them as human beings instead of running them as parts of a machine. We should not only train a child for future citizenship but should train him as a citizen with certain rights of his own.

At the Village School we emphasize the fundamentals of arithmetic, reading, language, writing, spelling, geo- graphy, history, civics, drawing and music. We have a program which provides for health education closely correlated with that of physical education. To state what we try to accomplish, and what we actually do accomplish in these formal subjects, and to write of the way in which the work is made interesting and meaningful to the child- ren would require much space. This story, therefore, must be left for a later report.

Intelligence and achievement tests have been given at our school, in both of which the children ranked highly. The intelligence test was given for the purpose of testing the child's native intelligence, or the capacity which en- ables him to profit by the work of his school. The score which a child makes in an achievement test is due in part to the native intelligence of the child and in part to the teaching which he has received in school. So, as far as the formal subjects are concerned, we feel that results are satisfactory, as the high marks made by the children in these standardized tests prove that the work of the Village School is equal to or above the average of better educational systems.

At the Village School, however, we have not the time, room space, or equipment necessary to carry on a very

a en

-158-

extensive activity program. Nevertheless we do allow ourselves one or two luxuries. Each year we present an operettta and, so far as possible, correlate the work in- volved with our reading, language, and music. We are proud of our playground, and justly so, as the equip- ment has been bought with the proceeds of these annual entertainments made possible through the efforts of the children themselves.

This year, for the first time, we have indulged in an- other luxury. I refer to our Toy Symphony Orchestra. For many reasons I consider this activity most worth while. Each child is provided with a rhythmic instru- ment and a musical score, as this is not an experience for the exceptionally talented few but, rather, a democratic group activity in which all participate. The scores pre- sent only the rhythm, without the added difficulty of pitch. One fine feature of the scores is the pre-orchestral training they offer. Every child learns the fine art of following the printed page, and listening to the ensemble at the same time. This development of orchestral be- havior is invaluable to the child who will later join the High School Orchestra. His sight reading in singing will also benefit him greatly.

To promote the reading of good books we have formed a Library Club and have borrowed freely of the books of the Duxbury Library. Mrs. Fisher has cooperated with this plan more helpfully and has carefully selected books for our use. During Book Week Mrs. Fisher was good enough to come to our school and tell the children of many new books to be obtained at the library. To stimu- late interest still further she told stories to an attentive and very appreciative audience.

Our school building is always kept immaculately clean and the washing and toilet facilities are satisfactory. Although we are without such adequate facilities as a gymnasium, and auditorium, and a lunch room, this lack does not really present any very serious menace to our

-159-

health and happiness as do the matters of poor atten- dance and the crowded conditions in our class rooms.

In my report of last year I emphasized the fact that there were more pupils in the first and second grades than their room could properly accommodate. As a re- sult of this over-crowded condition the Point School was re-opened and the first grade placed therein. This was a most fortunate procedure as the work of that grade is, as it should be, in a class by itself. The work of the second and third grades is analogous. A decided change takes place in the work of the fourth grade.

The congestion which was so keenly felt last year is now moving upward to my room. Already the presence is being felt. This year in the second grade room there is one grade consisting of twenty pupils. In my room I have a total membership of forty-three and two grades. It isn't so much the number of pupils as it is the amount of subject matter that has to be covered that matters. It is absolutely impossible for each child to receive the attention to his individual needs. The strain also upon the teacher is excessive. One grade of thirty-six pupils per teacher is considered the maximum for efficiency- especially in these days when the child is the centre of interest, whereas, in the old days, the bright child was suppressed and the dull one dragged along in an attempt to make all conform to the requirements of their grade.

In the progressive school of today, at least two divis- ions are formed in each grade, thus showing some regard for individual differences. That there is a difference has been proved by the tests given to my third and fourth grades. The same test was given to both grades at the same time and under the same conditions and the re- sults showed startling differences in the mentality of these children. Certainly this condition calls for re- classification and a different method of instruction. If a child is of low intelligence he should be grouped with other children of his own level and should be instructed

all t

-160-

by methods adapted to his needs. If he is of superior quality he should be given every reasonable chance to learn rapidly and to receive the kind of training which his capacities warrant. Then some intermediate group- ing should be organized to care for those children who do average work. Under present conditions it is impossible to make such a re-grouping and the high standard of the Duxbury schools cannot be maintained.

In another year the problem of providing for seating room will have to be solved. I fear there will be standing room only. Being a tax-payer I do not approve of the expense of opening another building. May I offer a sug- gestion ?

After the necessary re-classification, grades 2A, 2B, and 3B could be placed in the second grade room and in my room could be retained grades 3A, 4B, and 4A. This plan would provide a more equal distribution of pupils. Neither room would be overcrowded and each group could be instructed according to the needs of that par- ticular class. Incidentally, no expense would be incurred.

The children of grade 3B who, under this plan, would be placed in the second g ade room must understand that this is not a demotion. Instead, the necessary instruction that they will receive, will assure their promotion to grade four at the end of the year, which is far better than the retardation which would doubtless be their lot under the present system. The whole situation is exceed- ingly poor from an educational point of view and needs immediate attention. Hu we. er, no solution should be ac- cepted unless it provides adequately for all the children.

Another problem confronting the Village School is the cremely poor attendance. Child after child is absent week after week and it is a common occurrence for a child to be absent two months at a time.

What is to be done with th se children? After a seri- ous illross, it seems criminal to plunge them into work that is by the time they return to school, way over their

-H

-161 ---

heads. It seems to me that this is but another argument for a division of classes so that these absentees may, up- on their return to school, take up the thread of study where they left off and gradually work their way up into the division where they rightfully belong. As this poor attendance is owing entirely to sickness, I can see no remedy for the situation.

Right here, I will state that this year, as is the usual custom, each child was given a thorough physical exam- ination by Dr. Noyes, assisted by Miss Williams. Eye and ear tests have also been given.

This seems a most opportune time to thank the mem- bers of the Duxbury Grange for their kind hospitality. Each year the Grange tenders a reception to the teachers and school officials of Duxbury. We are "wined and dined" and entertained and the reception becomes one of those affairs of which we can truly say that "a good time was had by all."

Classroom discipline, which is usually a problem that has to be dealt with by teachers, is really no problem at all in our school. We feel that this is due to the home life of the children. During the five or six years of the pre- school period many of these children have learned social behavior of a high order, and all but the slowest and least experienced have a fund of useful information. Fundamental habits have been well established -- especially such habits as are of pronounced importance in the schoolroom. We want the parents to know how much we appreciate the home training.

Nor does the good work end in the homes. I wonder if the parents appreciate the superior qualifications of our bus drivers. Certainly no other town is more fort- unate in this respect. The children are perfectly devoted to their chauffeurs and respond readily to the training they receive in "bus etiquette."

This year Miss Pratt returned to the Point School and is continuing the good work begun by her last year. Re-

-162-

sults count, and the children who came to our second grade this fall have on the whole received splendid prep- aration.

It was with deep regret that news of Miss West's res- ignation was received last June. A valuable teacher has been lost to the town but we have been most fortunate in securing her successor, for, to fill the vacancy caused by Miss West's resignation, came Miss Gladys Fulcher bearing an academic record of which she may well be proud. Miss Fulcher brings to our school much youth- ful enthusiasm, and a wonderful spirit of cooperation.

So, Duxbury is again fortunate to have, in those all- important lowest grades, teachers whose personality and technique assure success.

To the members of the School Committe who have given more hours to the study of school problems than many citizens realize, a word of appreciation is due. It is by their sympathetic understanding and hearty sup- port that the schools succeed.

To the Superintendent and to my associates in school work I can but repeat what I wrote last year-with added emphasis. This has indeed been a year of sincerely happy association.

On the whole this has also been a most successful year, owing to the earnest effort made by each member of the school organization to have it so.

I am deeply grateful to each and every one who has in any way contributed to this success and happiness.

Respectfully submitted,

SARA E. PAULDING,

January 28, 1930.

Principal.

-163-

Report of Music Supervisor

To the Superintendent of Schools :

The work in Music started with the usual interest and enthusiasm this fall with most encouraging results.

The first four months have been spent in very care- fully and thoroughly laying a solid foundation in the rudiments of this subject and reading songs from the Music books.

Aside from the general class work in theory, the va- rious teachers are rehearsing their children for several concerts and musical entertainments to be given this spring.

This stimulates the interest of the boys and girls, having something definite for which to work, and also re- lieves any monotony which otherwise might be felt in the study of this work.

The teachers throughout the entire school system are untiring and enthusiastic and, furthermore, most effi- cient, making it a pleasure to work with them.

The primary grades, under Miss Baker and Miss Peter- son, at Tarkiln will give a cantata called-"A Get Ac- quainted Party"-the three primary grades, with Miss Paulding and Miss Fulcher, will sing the "The Story Book People."

The fifth and sixth grades will sing "The Childhood of Hiawatha," with appropriate scenes from Hiawatha.

The seventh and eighth grades, under Miss Downey, will give an operetta which promises to be more than in- teresting and fine.

The High School Chorus and Glee Clubs will unite with the Orchestra in a joint concert to be given some time in March.

This we think is fine training for the boys and girls of Duxbury.

MRS. M. B. McCLOSKY.

-- 164-

Report of the Drawing Supervisor

Mr. George E. Green,

Superintendent of Schools.

Dear Sir :

Many new teachers have entered this year to take the place of the retired ones, which of course, means extra training and slower work for everyone concerned until the new instructors have become used to our ways and plans of working. For, in many ways, our work is based on different methods from those which are used in this state to promote the interests of drawing. That the teachers are doing the things well and gaining fast is amply proved by the results being gained.

The primary work is moving a bit slower, as it often does, but with patience and time, we shall no doubt gain the objective sought for.

All primary work in drawing is hard to handle with entire success and calls for patience and time plus, as it requires at least two years to properly gain this work by a new teacher:

All the work in the high school grades is very well done by workers who have had the basic and solid work that gives results.

Without doubt all the best work in drawing is brought about by good and thorough foundations that must not be slighted.

At the end of the spring term it is our regular custom to make a general exhibit at the high school. This is for everybody interested. .

My sincere thanks are due to Mr. Green, the school committee, and to the teachers for their unfailing help and courtesy.

Respectfully submitted,

SAMUEL WARNER.

-161 --

Classroom discipline, which is usually a problem that has to be dealt with by teachers, is really no problem at all in our school. We feel that this is due to the home life of the children. During the five or six years of the pre- school period many of these children have learned social behavior of a high order, and all but the slowest and least experienced have a fund of useful information. Fundamental habits have been well established- especially such habits as are of pronounced importance in the schoolroom. We want the parents to know how much we appreciate the home training.

This year Miss Pratt returned to the Point School and is continuing the good work begun by her last year. Re-

-162-

sults count, and the children who came to our second grade this fall have on the whole received splendid prep- aration.

So, Duxbury is again fortunate to have, in those all- important lowest grades, teachers whose personality and technique assure success.

To the Superintendent and to my associates in school work I can but repeat what I wrote last year-with added emphasis. This has indeed been a year of sincerely happy association.

On the whole this has also been a most successful year, owing to the earnest effort made by each member of the school organization to have it so.

I am deeply grateful to each and every one who has in any way contributed to this success and happiness.

Respectfully submitted,

SARA E. PAULDING,

January 28, 1930.

Principal.

-163-

Report of Music Supervisor

To the Superintendent of Schools :

The work in Music started with the usual interest and enthusiasm this fall with most encouraging results.

The first four months have been spent in very care- fully and thoroughly laying a solid foundation in the rudiments of this subject and reading songs from the Music books.

Aside from the general class work in theory, the va- rious teachers are rehearsing their children for several concerts and. musical entertainments to be given this spring.

This stimulates the interest of the boys and girls, having something definite for which to work, and also re- lieves any monotony which otherwise might be felt in the study of this work.

The teachers throughout the entire school system are untiring and enthusiastic and, furthermore, most effi- cient, making it a pleasure to work with them.

The fifth and sixth grades will sing "The Childhood of Hiawatha," with appropriate scenes from Hiawatha.

The seventh and eighth grades, under Miss Downey, will give an operetta which promises to be more than in- teresting and fine.

The High School Chorus and Glee Clubs will unite with the Orchestra in a joint concert to be given some time in March.

This we think is fine training for the boys and girls of Duxbury.

MRS. M. B. McCLOSKY.

E d

S-

n p-

-- 164-

Report of the Drawing Supervisor

Mr. George E. Green,

Superintendent of Schools.

Dear Sir :

The primary work is moving a bit slower, as it often does, but with patience and time, we shall no doubt gain the objective sought for.

All primary work in drawing is hard to handle with entire success and calls for patience and time plus, as it requires at least two years to properly gain this work by a new teacher.

All the work in the high school grades is very well done by workers who have had the basic and solid work that gives results.

Without doubt all the best work in drawing is brought about by good and thorough foundations that must not be slighted.

At the end of the spring term it is our regular custom to make a general exhibit at the high school. This is for everybody interested.

My sincere thanks are due to Mr. Green, the school committee, and to the teachers for their unfailing help and courtesy.

Respectfully submitted,

SAMUEL WARNER.

-165-

Report of School Nurse

Duxbury, December 31, 1929.

To the Supt. of Schools of Duxbury :

My activities have been as follows during the past year :

Visits to school sessions

519

Visits to homes of school children 669

Total

1188

The visits to the homes of pupils have been instruc- tive visits.

During July, I visited the parents of children who ex- pected to enter school in September, and suggested that the children be examined by the family physician and the dentist, and the corrections (if there were any to be made) be attended to early. Thus the child could enter his school physically fit and find it easier to adjust him- self to his new surroundings and environment, and start off right. I also urged the child to be vaccinated early, as this would allow the arm or leg to heal well before the child entered school, thereby avoiding the discomfort when jostled while playing with other children.

All but one new pupil were vaccinated during the sum- mer, and this was left undone because the parents do not speak English and could not seem to connect up with the doctor. This child is to be vaccinated soon.

The visits to the dentist with children were made be- fore our dental chair was installed. Since April, 1929, many children have been treated at the high-school build- ing. The parents make appointments with the school dentist and the child is treated there, and does not lose half or a day of school. The younger children have been carried from the Primary Schools to the high-school

Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.

Town annual report for the town of Duxbury for the year ending 1926-1930, Part 34

Author: Duxbury (Mass.) Publication date: 1926 Publisher: The Town Number of Pages: 880

Author: Duxbury (Mass.)
Publication date: 1926
Publisher: The Town
Number of Pages: 880