USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Ipswich > Town annual report of Ipswich 1958 > Part 4
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BURLEY
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SP. CL.
ROOMS 1958
WINTHROP
NEEDED FOR 1959
Possible solutions include using the lower level of the Shatswell School, now a lunch room and all-purpose room; move the Opportunity Class (Special Class) to some other area thereby releasing a regular classroom; using the all-purpose room at the Winthrop School; or increase class size to 38 in some grades thereby making rooms available.
Ipswich High School has the following type and number of rooms. There are eleven (11) regular classrooms, a sewing room and a cooking room for Home Economics, a typing room, a science laboratory, a study hall, a music room, a gymnasium-auditorium, a cafeteria, offices, a teachers' room and other storage rooms. The Shop Building has an upstairs area for Art and Graphic Arts, a downstairs area for woodworking and machines and a storage room for supplies. All these rooms are in use daily by Grades 9-12.
Grades 7-8 use a majority of these same facilities in the afternoon session.
HOUSING?
LARGER TEACHING STAFF
CURRICULUM?
DERGARTEN?
OTHER PROBLEMS
Additional housing is not the only long- range consideration. Competitive salaries, expansion of the curriculum in depth to meet the needs of pupils in a complex world, larger teaching staff, larger administra- tive staff, possibilities of public school kindergarten-all these factors have to be examined and decisions made concerning them.
Decisions have to be made if the community is to continue to accept its responsibility for the young people of Ipswich-those here and those to come.
In other sections of the school report are mentioned specific ac- complishments in which all can take pride. There has been much done that is "good education" by some outstanding people in this school system.
The primary aim and interest of the Superintendent of Schools is to do all possible to promote the best educational system possible for those most affected - the boys and girls of this community. It is felt that some positive steps have been taken in that direction in this past year.
Respectfully submitted, Dr. Robert M. O'Kane Superintendent of Schools
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KINI
SALARIES?
REPORT OF THE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
To the Superintendent of Schools, to the School Committee, and to the Town of Ipswich:
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The high school continues to function under the handi- cap of an abbreviated school day due to the double use of the facilities for both morning and afternoon ses- sions. Until a solution to this problem is provided, the educational needs of the young people in grades 7 through 12 will not be fully met.
Enrollment in the high school at the end of 1958 is approximately the same as it was at the end of the pre- vious year. However, an enrollment increase of at least thirty students is anticipated when school opens next September. This will make the high school enrollment over 400 students. Continued increases in enrollment will necessitate the provision of additional classroom space. This is essential if a program suited to the needs and interests of the stu- dents is to be provided. A temporary solution to the problem of classroom space will be provided by the installation of folding partitions in the caf- eteria. This will provide three classroom spaces which will be available for use during part of the school day.
The curriculum offered in the high school compares favorably with that offered at other high schools of similar size. The number and kinds of subjects offered are about the same. In some areas however, especially in Science, definite limitations are placed on content due to the lack of necessary laboratory facilities. The one laboratory in the school is used most of the time for instruction in Physics and Chemistry. Very little time is available for use of the laboratory by students who are study- ing Biology and General Science.
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The much-needed library will become a reality in the high school in the near future. Plans to install a folding partition in the present study hall have been made, with part of the room to be used as a library area. Reference materials to assist students in pre- paring their reports and daily lessons will be kept in this area.
The return last Spring of the driver education automobile to the dealer who generously provided it and the inability to obtain another auto- mobile has resulted in the curtailment of the driver education program to classroom instruction only. So far no dealer has been willing to provide an automobile so that the very worthwhile and much-needed behind-the-wheel in- struction may be offered.
Additional extra-curricular activities have been added to the high school program. Included are cross country, track, and rowing. These activi- ties are worthwhile in that the students in- volved are generally those who do not partici- pate in other activities. These activities take place after regular school hours and in no way interfere with or replace any part of the stu- dent's regular school program.
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A series of "General Education" classes were held last year in an attempt to enrich the high school program. Speakers representing many dif- ferent fields of activity and interest conducted the classes. Time for these classes was provided by extending the school day beyond the usual closing time.
A test of general educational development was administered to the entire student body of the high school early in the fall. The results of this test will be studied care- fully to learn the implications which they have for the entire local school system.
The high school is truly a "community school" in that its facili- ties are used very extensively after regular school hours by many groups from the local community as well as from the school. The wide range of acti- vities held in the school include athletic practice sessions and games, gym- nastics classes, adult education classes, extension courses for teachers, banquets, exhibits, parent-teacher group meetings, concerts, and many other things.
A source of strength in the high school is the teaching staff. All members of the staff have had valuable training and most have had many years of valuable experience. Very little turnover among teacher personnel occurred during the year. Only two members of the staff are new, one having replaced a teacher who left in the Spring, while the other replaced a teacher who left to accept an administrative position in another state. The entire staff is highly com- mended for doing an excellent job despite the obvious handicaps imposed by the double use of the facilities of the school.
The high school principal wishes to thank the superintendent of schools, the school committee, the faculty, the supervisors, the secretarial staff, the custodians, and all others for the assistance and cooperation that he has received during the year.
Respectfully submitted,
Wilbur C. Connon, Principal
REPORT OF ASSISTANT TO PRINCIPAL GRADES 7-12
To the Superintendent of Schools, the School Committee and the Town of Ipswich:
J.H.S.
Through the combined efforts of the complete junior high staff, supervisors, Dr, O'Kane, and our parents, the junior high program during the past school year can certainly be deemed most successful. In an effort to disregard the status quo we have moved ahead in the areas of curriculum improvement, per- sonnel evaluation, increased time and more extensive co- and extra-curricular activi- ties.
In addition to our regular offerings in grade 7 and 8, the areas of Sci-
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ence, Reading and Arithmetic have been broadened. The science courses in grades 7 and 8 include not only regular classroom lectures and lessons but more varied experiences in dealing with lab equipment and using same under the gui- dance of Mr. Cruikshank. Coupled with the fact that the pupil participation in more lab work creates a better understanding of certain scientific principles, it also pro- duces a smoother articulation for later senior high school science courses.
Our reading course, offered to all 7th and 8th grade pupils, has been broadened to include more critical and analytical reading in addition to regular instruction in reading fundamentals. Mr. Pappas also devoted much time to pupils needing remedial instruction in reading. Since reading is an integral part of our Language Arts Program, our English teachers regularly meet with Mr. Pappas to determine the specific areas needing greater atten- tion and emphasis.
a+b+c+d ... etc. = alphabet a2 + 2ab + b2 = x ??
E = MC2
TT = 3, 1416 . ... 2 PR
A regular course in beginning Algebra is being given to certain grade 8 pupils who have exhibited proficiency in the subject. This course, if successfully passed will provide these pupils with an opportunity to elect five years of mathematics in high school where only four years are offered presently.
For the first time since afternoon sessions began we are offering our pupils a comprehensive music program. Prior to this year the entire stu- dent body met once a week and received instructions in vocal music and appre- ciation. This class totaled 200 or more pupils. This year under the direction of Miss Begin, classes of 60-80 meet once a week and receive more concentra- ted instruction in music fundamentals, appreciation, and vocal music. While this condition is not ideal, it is a decided improvement over our previous program.
A junior chorus, directed by Miss Begin, meets once a week before school and provides approximately 60 pupils with an opportunity to partici- pate in a worth-while activity. Band provides another experience for pupils wishing to play a musical instrument and partake of band activities.
Provisions are being made for certain pu- pils having proficiency in Art. These pu- pils will be provided with an opportunity to meet with Mr. Hayes during specified mornings and will receive instructions in elementary and advance techniques and in art appreciation.
In addition to our regular scholastic offerings the following stu- dents services are provided to our pupils. These services are all directly related to our pupils' needs and in general are essential to better teaching- learning situations. These services include: physical examinations given by Dr. Collins; hearing examinations given by qualified State audiometer spec- ialists; sight examinations given by qualified personnel; Patch tuberculosis tests and other immunizations; regular daily visits by Miss DeMille, the school nurse; accident insurance for a low fee; regular guidance services of counseling, psychological and psychiatric referrals to qualified agencies, plus regular I.Q.'s and achievement testing.
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Other co- and extra-activities that include pupil-teacher partici- pation are assembly programs, dramatics, declamation programs, speech club, conversational French periods, parent-teacher conferences, parent-teacher meetings, professional committee work, art club, choral practice, student council, band and outdoor recreation activities.
During the past school year a group of teachers, supervisors, prin- cipals, and Dr. O'Kane met for several months to provide an objective instru- ment to be used to measure teacher competence and to provide other evaluative criteria for teachers-principals use. This criterion is used twice during the school year where each teacher and administrator is evaluated. This in- strument is used to improve techniques where necessary and to present a clear picture of teacher administrator status and relationship.
Many inadequacies still exist in our program and can only be cared for through additional school housing with facilities comparable to those we are now using.
An excellent staff has provided our pupils with the finest educa- tional opportunities available under these circumstances.
The end product, our pupils, have proven that our job is well done. Despite conditions and limited time, our pupils compare very favorably with others of similar age and education.
Fine rapport exists among staff, supervisors, administrators and our superintendent, and all are deeply engaged in providing our pupils with a sound and beneficial education.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph R. Rogers Assistant to Principal Grades 7-12
REPORT OF THE BURLEY AND SHATSWELL SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
To the Superintendent of Schools, the School Committee, and the Town of Ipswich:
As Principal of the Burley and Shatswell Schools, I herewith submit a report of progress in the elementary schools under my direction.
School Population and Room Utilization:
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In January, 1958, there were 223 pupils in the eight-room Burley School, and 201 pu- pils utilizing seven classrooms in the Shatswell School. At the Burley School, classes were organized two rooms for each grade, one through four. At the Shatswell School the same grade organization was maintained except for a single fourth grade. Class size in both schools averaged twenty- eight in January.
By contrast, we ended the year 1958 with a school population of 237 pupils in the Burley School, utilizing the eight classrooms, while at the Shatswell School the pupils number 222 with all eight classrooms in use. The
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average class size in December remained at twenty-eight for the Shatswell School and increased to twenty-nine at the Burley School.
STAFF INFORMATION :
The staff at both the Shatswell and Burley Schools changed during the year 1958. In Feb- ruary, Mrs. Hannon, second grade teacher at the Burley School, moved to Worcester and Miss Friend was on leave for most of the school year because of illness. At the end of the school year in June, four other staff members left for various reasons. In Septem- ber of 1958 the staff of the Burley and Shats- well Schools consisted of four experienced teachers working with four teachers new to Ipswich. By shifting experienced teachers we have maintained balanced staffs in all elementary schools.
We were all extremely saddened by the death of Miss Anne Friend during the summer of 1958. Miss Friend had been a teacher in Ipswich for thirty-seven years, all of them in the Burley School. She gave to her adop- ted town many years of devoted service. Miss Friend was a staunch member of community organizations, and served as treasurer of the Teachers' Club for many years.
CURRICULUM PROGRESS :
The year 1958 has seen our schools become in- creasingly strong in curriculum development. The Science curriculum has met with increased interest from both pupils and teachers. The added emphasis placed on vocal music by Mr. Antognoni, and in September by Miss Begin, in the elementary schools has in no way limited the interest in instrumental music so capably handled by our former music super- visor even though the start of instrumental music has been advanced one year. Art in the schools, under the supervision of Mr. Chad- bourne, continues to be a source of interest to most pupils. In the area of Arithmetic we have obtained a better balanced curriculum by using the same basic text through the grades and the program of grades one and two is now geared to that series. Total achieve- ment scores in this area point up the necessity of constant effort on the part of all to strengthen "problem solving."
The Language Arts program, which includes the area of reading, language, spelling, and wri- ting, under the careful supervision of Mrs. Evans, Reading Supervisor, has become a truly developmental program in grades one through four. With the cooperation of the Reading Supervisor, approval was granted by the School Committee to further develop the Lan- guage Arts program in grade four by the use of some of the techniques em- ployed in the developmental program in grades five and six. This study was limited to the Burley School starting in September.
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PLANT AND MAINTENANCE:
Every effort was made this past year to keep the Burley and Shatswell Schools in good con- dition. A planned program of cleaning and maintenance was developed in conjunction with the custodians; Mr. Cunningham at the Shats- well School and Mr. Gwinn at the Burley School, with Mr. Bowen substituting for a part of the year at the Burley School.
The Burley School finished its three-year painting program, in- stalled new stair treads and new ceilings, provided a small room for the use of the Reading Supervisor, and set up a second lunchroom.
The Shatswell School, having changed to an oil burner during the summer months of 1957, showed a fuel saving for the year. The three-year painting program was continued, concentrating on the basement area. The teachers' lavatory was tiled, windows repaired, and parking facilities im- proved.
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION:
The acquisition of Mrs. Davison on a full-time basis as secretary in the elementary schools under my direction has more than justified the foresight of the School Committee. With this added clerical help a more bene- ficial program was set up. It allowed the principal more time to supervise, to direct his attention to development of the curriculum, to research, and still maintain and expand the necessary control of general routine matters.
PARENTAL COOPERATION:
Our efforts to bring more and more parents into close contact with the elementary schools, its program and teachers, we are proud to say, are meeting with increasing success. Our School Associations meet five times a year in formal meetings planned by the officers. Attendance at these assoc- iations meetings average close to one hundred parents, which is usually a full house considering the fact that we use a classroom in the Burley School and the all-purpose room in the Shatswell School.
Through the "Teacher for a Day" program, held during Education Week each November, parents were encouraged to assume the responsibility of conducting a class. Participation was at a higher degree this year than in the past years and we look toward a one hundred per- cent staff of lay people next year.
Teacher-Parent conferences held during after school hours reached an all-time high this past year. We were extremely pleased to have had a to- tal of 384 conferences between teachers and parents during 1958. We hope this will continue to be a vital part of our increasing efforts toward home-school cooperation.
Last, we would like to re-emphasize our "oper" door policy to all parents and citizens. We would like to see more and more of our citi- zens come into our schools, visit classrooms, observe our teaching, our program, our man- agement.
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As Principal, I extend an all-inclusive THANK YOU to the many de- partments, agencies, and facilities, who cooperate with our educational pro- gram; to the citizens of Ipswich for providing the means, the School Commit- tee and theSuperintendent for providing the direction and leadership which enables your Principal and his loyal staff to plan and carry through a school year geared to the increasing demands and needs of our every-changing society.
Respectfully submitted,
Bertram H. Bennett, Principal
REPORT OF WINTHROP SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
To the Superintendent, the School Committee and the Town of Ipswich:
I herewith submit the report of the acti- vities and progress pertaining to the Win- throp School for the previous school year.
The past year has been one of the most ac- ROP tive in the short history of the new school. Continued emphasis on curriculum develop- ment and improvement, coupled with in- creased efforts to give the children of Ipswich the best possible elementary school education, have permeated the thinking and the actions of the entire staff of teachers, supervisors, and the principal during this period.
During the year several personnel changes were made and several new teachers were added to the system.
The high registration of pupils who were to enter the first grade involved the preparation of an additional first grade class. On September 8 the Winthrop School began its curriculum activities with a total enrollment of 421 pupils.
The unique Language Arts program (reading, spelling and English grammar) conducted in grades five and six under the guidance and supervision of Mrs. Mary Evans, Supervisor of Reading, has caused wide interest in our school by school authorities in other communities. We have had many inquiries regarding the success of the curriculum plan.
WINT
WW
We believe that this program is a decided step in the right direction and are ex- tremely proud of the results that have been achieved. We are more convinced than ever that our Language Arts curriculum plan has solved the problems of stimulating the academically talented child to greater efforts and achievements while adequately providing for the slower learners. The efficiency of teaching has improved in this area for the average student is not dis- tracted by the talented child or by the slow learner.
The Remedial Reading Summer School program, with an enrollment of 50 pupils, was introduced into the elementary school curriculum this year, under the supervision of Mrs. Mary Evans, and proved extremely successful.
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The purpose of this program was to offer help to those who needed it in the area of reading. Classes were held during the first six weeks of summer at the Winthrop School and were taught by Mr. William Waitt, Jr., Mrs. Rose Merry, Mrs. Alice Bennett, Mr. Charles Pappas. It is hoped that this pro- gram will be continued with expanded enrollment and broadened to include other subject areas.
The high point of the year's activities was the Elementary School Science Fair in Ipswich, which was held in March. This elementary school science fair SCIENCE FAIR was the first to be held in this area of Massachusetts. It attracted wide attention both from educators and lay persons in this and other communities of the North Shore. At least 1,000 students viewed the large collection of science projects in the two days they were on display and nearly 1500 parents, friends, educators, and others visited the event at an evening showing. More than 300 exhibits, charts, models, demonstrations and projects filled the all-purpose room of the school as well as an adjoining room and the hall. All projects were made by the children with little assistance from parents. The wide variety of projects and the great amount of knowledge and intelli- gence shown by the children in the development of their projects was a source of amazement to all who were in attendance. The novel project was sparked by Mr. Donald Cruikshank and Mr. John Curley of the Winthrop staff and they were assisted by many other teachers who devoted considerable effort toward the success of the venture. It was the most outstanding event in the elementary schools of Ipswich in the memories of many of our veteran teachers and plans are underway for a similar event in the early part of 1959.
A fine example of excellent cooperation among teachers, adminis- trators, students, parents and townspeople, was the highly successful and beneficial lawn party and bazaar held on the school grounds in June under the auspices of the Winthrop School Association. Enough money was raised to pur- chase a television set for school use.
We were pleased to have a number of parents visit our school dur- ing Education Week, and to have the parents once again take part in the "Teacher for a Day" program. We sincerely hope this program will continue in the future so that many other parents may share this experience.
The building has been used by many civic organizations, such as the Well Child Clinic which is held monthly under the direction of Dr. Frank Collins, School Physician and Miss Violet DeMille, School Nurse; the Winthrop School Association, the Regional School Committee, the School Building Needs Committee, the Essex County Teachers Association Salary Committee, the Ips- wich Teachers Association, the Recreation Committee Activities, and for town elections.
Mr. Robert Burke, Physical Education In- structor, has continued to conduct weekly classes to members of grades 4, 5 and 6. The wide range of activity keeps all keenly interested in this useful addition to the curriculum.
Growth in the field of Art has been constantly stimulated by Mr. Frank Chadbourne, Supervisor of Art. Many new and different projects have been introduced as well as a review of many essential skills of this area.
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Scenery for various assembly programs, murals, window decorations and holiday art projects were guided by him.
The Audubon Nature Study course has continued under the direction of Miss Flor. Her bi-monthly hourly presentations are looked forward to with great interest by the sixth grade classes.
Mr. Robert Antognoni, Music Supervisor, and Miss Dolores Begin, the new teacher of music, deserve much thanks and appreciation from all for their cooperation in all phases of their duties. Their splendid work in supervising the performance of the operatta, "Merry Christmas, Mister Snowman," brought much enthusiastic response from all viewers.
The formation of a fifty voice chorus consisting of fifth and sixth grade pupils has added much depth and breadth to the vocal music program. Un- der the direction of Mr. Antognoni, the group has performed exceptionally well at several public gatherings.
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