USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Middleton > Town annual report of Middleton, MA. 1961 > Part 6
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).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10
The Mantoux Test was given to children in Grades 1 and 6. In this test a drop of harmless liquid tuberculin is put into the skin. The Essex County Health Association and state health officials feel this test is more accurate than the patch testing done in the past. Only 4 positive reactions were found and follow-up visits were made to the homes.
Physical examinations were given to children in grades 1 and 4 in the Fall of 1960 and Spring of 1961. A total of 86 children were given complete physicals by Dr. William Wiswall, the School Physi- cian, with many mothers present. Sixty-eight of the children went to their own physicians for examinations. Reports of defects were sent home in writing for the more important findings, referring them to their own physician for care or correcton. Hemoglobin determination and urine analysis are done on all children receiving the complete physical examination at school.
Approximately 850 children visited the Health Room in the past year for illness or accidents during the day.
A pediculosis check is conducted twice annually on all heads. This condition has not been a problem in recent years.
Heights and weights are checked annually on all children and those above and below are given dietary advice.
Two hundred and four children attended the various Polio clinics held during the year. Of these, many were given the original series of three shots, others completed the series and all others were given boosters.
Eighty-four children attended the Diptheria-tetanus clinics, seven receiving the original series of three shots, and 69 receiving boosters.
Respectfully submitted,
PHYLLIS S. BROWN, R.N.
School Nurse
115
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF THE SCHOOL DENTIST
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School:
During the period from January to June, 1961, there were 85 fillings and twelve prophylactics performed in the Dental Clinic by the School Dentist. Since September, 1961, 211 pupils have been examined and reports were sent to parents informing them of the condition of their children's teeth. To date, 131 children of the 211 examined still require treatment.
During the year we conducted a dental education program con- sisting of a motion picture, together with several demonstrations of proper methods of brushing teeth.
The treatment program consists of fillings and prophylactics.
A marked improvement has been noted in the Dental Program during the last few years. Our approach of preventative methods and general hygiene instruction, together with treatment, have resulted in a more thorough and complete program.
In the coming year we shall continue to carry out a combined program of prevention, treatment and education as to the proper care of teeth and their relationship to general health. Our prime objective is to recognize dental problems early and promptly advise parents as to their children's needs.
Respectfully submitted,
LEO P. BENINATO, D.D.S.
School Dentist
116
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF REMEDIAL READING SPECIALIST
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School :
A simple definition of reading by David Russell ("Personal Values in Reading," The Reading Teacher, Oct. 1958, p. 3) recently published in a professional journal, will serve to preface this report. He states that, "Reading is responding. The response may be at the surface level of "calling" the word. It may be at the somewhat deeper level of understanding the explicit meaning of sentence, paragraph or passage. Sometimes reading may be a third level. It may involve going beyond the facts to the discovery of new and personal meanings. It may be a stimulus to images, memories, indentification or fresh and creative thoughts."
Thus, it is the child who has experienced great difficulty in reaching the "calling" level with whom we are concerned in the Remedial Reading classes. It becomes necessary to give the child special help in "unlocking" words through concentrated phonics. The Gillingham Method of teaching reading is geared to help overcome this problem. This method gives all the sounds for the consonants, vowels, diphthongs, and digraphs before the child even tries to read. He is constructing rather than memorizing words. As the children gain facility in reading individual words, we then stress correct pro- nunciation, word meaning, reading in phrases, and skills of compre- hension such as: recall of details, finding the main idea of the paragraph, critical thinking and inference.
The Gillingham Method was used in the Howe-Manning last year and proved to be a highly successful program. It is of interest to note that the average gain for grade three was 1 year, the average gain for grade four was 1 year and 4 months, the average gain for grade five was 1 year, and the average gain for grade six was 1 year and five months. This means that the average gain of the entire remedial reading group was 1 year and 2 months - 4 months over the expected gain. Due to these results, we were encouraged to continue this method of reading.
Participating pupils were selected on the basis of the Gates Survey Test, I.Q. Scores, Reading Achievement Scores, and teacher recommendation. Each child will be retested in the Spring with a
117
SCHOOL REPORT
different form of the Gates Survey Test appropriate for his level in order to measure his growth in reading skill. We realize, however, that all gains cannot be measured with a standardized test. It is frequently a new attitude and interest toward reading that makes the difference between success and failure.
LIBRARY
Through the interest and financial assistance of the Howe-Mann- ing School Parent-Teachers Association, the Teachers' Association, and the School Department, 234 new books have been added to the library shelves. The choice of new books was made on the basis of the children's interests, abilities and needs. The library now con- tains a total of 1,011 volumes with a recent circulation of approxi- mately 300 books per week. Reading for pleasure has been encouraged through various programs such as book reports, exhibits and contests.
A card catalogue system was set up by a committee of teachers so that the library might function in the same manner as a public library. This system facilitates the teaching of library skills to the children.
Both parents and teachers desire the child to attain more than a functional degree of independence in reading. To reach this goal, all our imagination, skill and resources are demanded.
Respectfully submitted, ROSE DURGIN
Remedial Reading Specialist
118
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF MUSIC SUPERVISOR
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School:
We at Howe-Manning School are continuing the effort, to develop and direct the cultural interests of the children in the area of music.
The supervisor observes the students weekly, by visiting each class. He helps the teacher in specific areas of Music, and plans the monthly program sheet as a guide for the teachers in the daily sup- plement of this phase of the child's education. It is planned that three workshops will be given as an aid for the teachers.
The school choir which meets during noon recess on Wednesday and Friday, on a volunteer basis, now has a membership of fifty boys and girls in contrast to twenty-five in September. It is anticipated that this group will expand during the term.
The new equipment received this year consists of a long-playing classical album for use with grades one through six. We are antici- pating the purchase of recordings to accompany the Follett singing book series which is currently employed in one class of each grade level. We believe that the use of recordings in conjunction with this series would be most beneficial.
We hope to arrange for private instruction for children in the fourth to sixth grade levels in all the band instruments, in addition to piano and accordion.
We hope that a thorough program in elementary school music will foster an appreciation which will open the way for further development in our children.
Respectfully submitted, JAMES BROOKS
Music Supervisor
119
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF ART SUPERVISOR
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School:
The art program at the Howe-Manning School is planned for the purpose of fulfilling the creative and emotional needs of the children.
Projects that challenge the imagination and contribute to creativity are selected. To sustain interest, a wide variety of media is used, including crayon, pencil, construction paper, poster paint, clayola, papier mache and sawdust mache.
Considerable emphasis is put on creative sculptural projects such as Congo masks, totem poles, puppets, and folded paper animals. These projects, done with sawdust mache, papier mache, and con- struction paper, in addition to being imaginative and fun to do, have the secondary advantage of promoting manual dexterity.
The children are shown the many ways in which crayons may be used. They are taught to use them sideways as well as by the points. They are encouraged to use varying degrees of pressure, and also to experiment coloristically by rubbing some colors over others. They are shown that crayons applied with different strokes produce dif- ferent textures. These points of instruction make the crayon lessons genuinely creative experiences.
At all grade levels, drawing is encouraged to be personal and expressive. In the upper grades, some geometric type drawing is taught. This approach enables the children to find satisfaction and control in drawing objects of a geometric nature, such as cars, trucks, airplanes and buildings.
Color is taught in terms of hot and cold harmonies and the psychological effects of these harmonies. The children are taught how warm colors contribute to happy, cheerful scenes and cool colors to sad or spooky pictures.
In the upper grades, poster technique is taught, wherein stress is laid upon the necessity of presenting ideas with clearness and simplicity. The school has participated in poster contests run by the
120
SCHOOL REPORT
MSPCA and the Middleton Fire Department. These posters promoted socially worthy objectives. Successful students have been rewarded with prizes and recognition.
The children participate in making large classroom murals. These murals, made with either sponge applied paint or construction paper, relate to seasonal activities or classroom assignments. They make the classroom more cheerful and promote cooperative work habits among the children.
Advice and assistance are given to classroom teachers in projects they themselves undertake. Those that show need are instructed in various projects and techniques of teaching art. Their growth in this respect assures the children to sound training at all times.
Respectfully submitted,
EDWARD B. BRUZZO
Art Supervisor
121
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF CAFETERIA MANAGER
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School:
The hot lunch program operated 100 days from January 1st to June 15th, 1961. A total of 28,533 Type A meals were served to the children, with a percentage participation of 72%. A total of 1415 meals were served to adults. A total of 11,802 bottles of milk were served under the special milk program, with a percentage participa- tion of 29%.
To meet the requirements of the National School Lunch Program, each Type A lunch served must contain as a minimum the following: two ounces of protein-rich foods, a three-fourths cup serving of fruits and vegetables, one slice of enriched bread, two teaspoons of butter, and one-half pint of milk. A fruit or vegetable containing Vitamin C is served every day and foods containing Vitamin A are used at least twice a week. In addition, dessert is served. Larger portions are given to the older children.
Without the allotment from the Commodity Division, it would be impossible for this program to be self-supporting, as it now is. The value of the commodities received from January 1st to June 15th, (including butter, flour, rice, cheese and frozen meats) was $1,571.40.
Efforts to extend participation in the program have been carn- estly maintained. A file of standardized recipes is being enlarged constantly to insure quality products and a larger variety of menus. In-service training, meetings, and information gained at workshops are used to improve the efficiency of operation.
Personnel adding another year to their fine records are: Mary Silva, Myrtle Boardman, Lorayne Hocter and Helen Doucette.
For the cooperation given the cafeteria staff, we take this oppor- tunity to thank everyone.
Respectfully submitted,
MARY E. KING
Cafeteria Manager
122
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF SPEECH THERAPIST
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School :
The purpose of the speech therapy program at Howe-Manning School is to constructively aid those children who are in need of speech correction assistance.
The program was continued in September 1961 with a testing program surveying all first grade children and all new students in grades 2 through 6. The results of this survey is as follows: a total of 57 children with speech deviations were found, 54 among the first grade children and 3 of the new student group. Children referred later will be tested and included in the program during the course of the year. Of the first graders, 13 were considered severe, 20 moderate and 21 mild cases. All three new students were considered moderate cases. Nineteen of the above-mentioned children began therapy in October. Each child is seen for approximately 30 minutes once weekly. Four children are seen individually and the others are seen in groups of no more than four children.
The total number of children being seen at the present time is 48. It is expected that several of these children will be dismissed at the end of this semester if their work progresses satisfactorily. At that time, others will be included in the program, with the total case load remaining about the same. The case load beginning in October was slightly higher than last year.
Since January, 1961, 25 children have been dismissed from Therapy due to progress in correcting their speech problem. Four children, who are carry-overs, may be dismissed soon if they continue to progress at the present rate.
The selection of children for the speech therapy program is done on the basis of an evaluation of the survey, teacher referrals and recommendations from the previous therapist.
Letters were sent to parents of each child needing speech therapy. This letter invited them to the school to discuss their child's speech problem. Some parents have taken advantage of this invitation. An attempt is being made to contact all parents personally so that they
123
SCHOOL REPORT
might be informed of the work being done in the speech therapy program.
Frequent informal teacher conferences reveal much about each individual child and his progress outside of therapy. Weekly notes are sent to the teachers to insure that the child is reminded of his outside assignment. Suggestions to the teacher are aimed at improving speech habits within the classroom.
The classroom teachers at Howe-Manning School have shown interest in the program. They are willing to cooperate and share their knowledge of the children. Interest shown by parents is greatly appreciated and will be quite beneficial in the children's progress.
The undersigned wishes to express her appreciation to the Superintendent-Principal of the Howe-Manning School for his sup- port and assistance in getting the speech therapy program underway again this year.
Respectfully submitted, JANE SEASTROM
Speech Therapist
124
SCHOOL REPORT
REPORT OF SUPERVISOR OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION
To the Superintendent-Principal, Howe-Manning School:
The physical education program at the Howe-Manning School has been set up to meet the daily needs of growing children by:
1. The selection of activities and games which will develop skill and strength.
2. The provision of opportunities for student leadership and self control in regular play or recess situations in addition to the weekly class period of instruction.
3. The practice of good health habits as related to our activity.
Seasons and grade levels determine the choice of activities. Out- door classes are held when the weather is favorable, otherwise, the gymnasium is used. If this should be unavailable, the physical educa- tion program may be carried on within the limits of the classroom.
A sports night demonstration was presented to the Parent Teachers Association, at which time approximately 100 boys and girls displayed skills acquired in the physical education classes and recess practice. This included mass calisthenics, dancing, basketball, games of lower organization, tumbling and stunts.
Similar demonstrations were repeated for lower grades and in Sports Day gatherings which were held at the end of the school year. On this latter occasion awards were presented.
The American Association of Health, Physical Education and Recreation has devised a fitness test which was given to our fifth and sixth grade boys and girls in the Spring of 1961. This testing has become an integral part of our program, being carried out twice a year. In this way we expect to show development or changes in individuals progress as well as keep parents and pupils conscious of physical fitness goals.
125
SCHOOL REPORT
Directly related to the above, the Presidents' Council, in July, 1961, set up three specific recommendations one of which was the use of this specific testing program. Another incorporates the idea of identifying the physically undeveloped by a similar means which we have employed. A third recommendation of the Presidents' Council - that we provide a minimum of fifteen minutes of vigorous activity every day for all pupils - has also been put into operation. The outdoor recess program of the upper grades has been organized to provide two five minute sessions of calisthenics in addition to the usual free play period. More vigorous activity and greater participa- tion has been promoted through the organization of recess games on a voluntary basis.
Various recreational contests have been conducted or are in pro- gress. These include Bean Bags, The Irish Jig, Checkers, Mile-or-more runners and Earn-a-chinning bar for your room subjects.
A recess leaders' club of twenty-four sixth graders assists in the operation of the Fitness Plan. Fifth grade pupils are in leadership training and assist the upper class leaders.
Much credit must be accorded these youngsters for their enthusiasm and determined effort when facing the characteristic obstacles connected with starting a new program. Even greater appre- ciation is extended to all the members of the teaching staff for their patience and assistance in carrying out the various phases of the physical education program.
Respectfully submitted,
HENRIETTA G. GIANNINO
Supervisor of Physical Education
ANNUAL REPORT
of
THE MASCONOMET
REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOXFORD, MASSACHUSETTS
MASCONOMET ......
GIONAL
.........
$4
7 . 1
......
ISTRICT
SCHOOL
For the Year Ending December 31, 1961
129
MASCONOMET REGIONAL SCHOOL REPORT
MASCONOMET REGIONAL DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
For the Year Ending, December 31, 1961
REGIONAL DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Term
Name
Town
Expires
Merton S. Barrows, Chairman
Boxford
1963
Richard Cressey, Vice-Chairman
Middleton
1963
M. Douglas Banus
Topsfield
1962*
Hans W. Barber
Boxford
1962
David V. Harding
Middleton
1962*
J. Harrison Holman
Topsfield
1963
Arthur O. McCoubrey
Topsfield
1962
Richard E. Quinn
Middleton
1962
E. Arthur Woodbury
Boxford
1962*
Secretary - Mrs. Martha P. Perry
Treasurer - Francis F. Perry
* Appointed By Local School Committee
The Regional School Committee meets the first and third Wednes- day of each month at the Administration Building, Endicott Street, Boxford, at 7:45 P.M.
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Julius H. Mueller
SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE Miss Elizabeth H. Rider, Secretary Mrs. Sarah P. Walshe, Bookkeeper
SCHOOL PHYSICIAN
Clarence E. Thornton, M.D. Danvers
SCHOOL NURSE
Mrs. Helen F. Hoogerzeil, R.N. Boxford
ATTENDANCE OFFICER
Nathan A. Hayward, Jr. Middleton
130
MASCONOMET REGIONAL SCHOOL REPORT
SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR 1962-1963
FALL TERM 1962
Tuesday, September 4
Wednesday, September 5 Thursday, September 6 Friday, September 7
Monday, September 10
Friday, October 12
Wednesday, October 17
Monday, November 12 Wednesday, November 21
Monday, November 26 Friday, December 21
Meeting of Department Heads and Orientation of New Teachers All Teachers Report
Orientation for Grade 7
First Day of School for Grades 8-12, until 12:00 Noon Faculty Luncheon and Final Orienta- tion Meeting 12:30-4:30
School Reopens
Columbus Day - School closed
County Teachers' Convention - School closed Veteran's Day - School closed
School closes 12:15 p.m. - Thanksgiv- ing recess
School Reopens School Closes 3:00 p.m. - Christmas recess
WINTER TERM
1963
Wednesday, January 2 Friday, February 15
Monday, February 25 Friday, April 12
Monday, April 15-19
School Reopens School closes 3:00 p.m. - Winter Vaca- tion School Reopens Good Friday - School closed
School closed - Spring Vacation
SPRING TERM
Monday, April 22
Thursday, May 30
School Reopens Memorial Day - School closed
Thursday, June 6 *Graduation ** School closed for Summer Vacation
Tuesday, June 25
*Tentative
** Provided School has been in Session 180 days as required by Massa- chusetts Law.
131
MASCONOMET REGIONAL SCHOOL REPORT
"NO SCHOOL" SIGNALS
Whenever it is necessary to cancel school because of weather or hazardous driving conditions, "No School" signals are sounded on the fire alarms of member towns at the times indicated below: and announcements to this effect also are given on radio station WESX, Salem: WHAV, Haverhill; and WBZ, Boston.
Town
Signal
Time
Boxford
3 Blasts
6:50 A.M.
West Boxford
3 Blasts
6:50 A.M.
Middleton
2-2-2
6:50 A.M.
Topsfield
2 Blasts
6:50 A.M.
132
MASCONOMET REGIONAL SCHOOL REPORT
Report of the Masconomet Regional District School Committee for Year Ending December 31, 1961
The Masconomet Regional District School Committee is pleased to submit to the citizens of the district its fourth annual report.
Organization
This year found many changes in the membership of the commit- tee. Mr. Hans Barber was elected in Boxford and replaced Mr. Charles Rich who had been appointed in 1960 to serve in place of the late Professor Franklin C. Roberts, Sr. until the next election. Mr. E. Arthur Woodbury replaced Mr. LeRoy Curtis as the appointed mem- ber of the Boxford School Committee. Mr. David Harding replaced Mrs. Rosamond Bastable as the appointed member of the Middleton School committee.
Mrs. Rosamond Bastable, who attended her last meeting on April 5, 1961, had been a member of this committee since its inception and had worked with other committees that were responsible for the for- mation of the region. She gave of her time unselfishly and contributed greatly to the development of the educational philosophy of the new school. The members of the committee who served with Mrs. Bastable wish to take this opportunity to express their sincere appreciation for her great contribution to the establishment and early growth of the Masconomet Regional District School.
This year also marked the first change in the office of chairman. Mr. J. Harrison Holman had served in this capacity since the com- mittee was formed and had also worked with earlier committees re- sponsible for the formation of the region. To adequately express the committees sincere appreciation for Mr. Holman's outstanding con- tribution, the following resolution was adopted at a regular meeting of the Masconomet Regional District School Committee held on May 17, 1961.
RESOLUTION:
"We, the members of the Masconomet Regional District School Committee, both past and present, wish to recognize the significant contribution made by one of our members
J. Harrison Holman
who, as one of the original committee to form the Regional School District, and who, subsequent to its formation has served continuous- ly as the Chairman of Regional District School Committee, has given unselfishly, constructively and importantly of his time, energy, talents
133
MASCONOMET REGIONAL SCHOOL REPORT
and leadership to its work in developing Masconomet Regional High School.
As further expression of our thanks and appreciation of his ex- treme effort, we hereby cause this resolution to be spread upon the records of the Committee this third day of May 1961, and further, that the Secretary send a copy of this resolution to him."
At its organization meeting on April 19, 1961 the following were elected :
Merton S. Barrows - Boxford - Chairman Richard Cressey - Middleton - Vice-Chairman
Martha P. Perry - Secretary Francis F. Perry - Treasurer
Graduation
It is very easy for a school committee to get bogged down in the details of the physical growth of a school and give less attention to the educational growth. We hope this never takes place at Mas- conomet. It was extremely gratifying to the school committee to wit- ness a graduation in June which indicated such maturity and all around poise. Both students and faculty may be justly proud of the high achievements for 1960-61.
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.