USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Saugus > Town annual report of Saugus 1930 > Part 26
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SAFETY PROGRAM
The children have been cooperating in a safety campaign in the schools during the year. A very wholesome spirit has been shown by the Sweetser pupils. A new unit is soon to be installed at the Central. We consider it an honor for a boy to be chosen a traffic officer, and it is a big help to the school.
ATHLETICS
The baseball at the Sweetser School made a good showing. The school members formed an Athletic Association
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
1930]
which paid the running expenses for the spring of 1930 and bought 11 full uniforms for the team. Inter-city games were played with 5 games won and 5 games lost.
Football was enjoyed in the Fall, by combining the 8th and 9th. grade candidates using extra equipment from the high school. Under Coach Rice the boys won 2 games, tied 2, and lost one. Five games were played with the following schools: Swamp- scott, Malden and Nahant. The training was valuable when we consider that these players will be available for 3 years in the Senior High School. Class spirit was much in evidence through- out the season. The pupils at the Central School are really deprived of athletics due to their afternoon hours. Until now it has been impossible for them to take part in games, but in the spring they will have baseball.
ABSCENCE
I would like to enlist the aid of every parent in lowering the amount of absence. If parents checked the absence of their children, better work would result.
Tardiness, absence, and truancy, are factors which influence a child's life. The habits learned in school decide what a person will do after school years are over.
RECOMMENDATIONS
I. More fence is needed at the Sweetser.
2. Since the front yard is now enclosed, it should have the attention of a gardener, this spring.
3. The grounds at the rear of the Central should be graded and put in creditable condition.
4. Visual instruction is increasing in importance in the Junior High School. We should be equipped for it. Plans are being made to do something along this line.
5. The May Field Day should be revived even if only for the older grades. The effect would be wholesome, and provide an objective for many.
6. Under present conditions at least 10 per cent (60 pupils) will fail in Grades VII and VIII. It would seem a benefit to Saugus to run a summer session for all pupils failing in any of the grades.
7. School Banking should be encouraged by adopting a banking system.
At this time I wish to thank all the town officials who are assist- ing me in guiding the work of the Junior High School pupils.
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
It means much to be able to have at a moments' notice competent services and advice from the doctor, nurse and dentist. The attendance officer, and all welfare organization help a great deal. All teachers in the Junior High System have helped in every way possible to make our school a success.
I appreciate the confidence placed in me by the School Com- mittee. Your continual assistance, Mr. Lambert, has been very valuable in carrying forward the policies of the Junior High School.
Respectfully submitted,
LEON C. YOUNG, Principal.
Report on Drawing
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus, Mass.
DEAR SIR,-I am pleased to offer my eighth annual report as teacher of art in the public schools of Saugus.
The same principles of teaching previously discussed are carried forward in both the first six grades and the junior high classes. This with the assistance of Miss Arlene Packard.
There have been two fifth grade classes added to the Sweetser Junior High building, also two Opportunity Classes in the Center School. Assistance is also offered in the club activity work of the Junior high school. In these classes there is chance for a provision of individual differences.
The exhibitions this year were held in each building in June, at the Essex County Fair at Topsfield in September, and several sets of group activity work have been exhibited at Boston Un- iversity School of Education. Special assignments are now being prepared for the State Convention of Art to be held in January at the Massachusetts School of Art in Boston.
As Dr. Dewey has stated, "Education is not above prepara- tion for life, but it is life itself." In this way the art subject material is so planned that it may fill the greatest need of life to the individual child.
There are different presentations or techniques of teaching, which may be here mentioned. The Herbartian Scheme or Exposition Method is perhaps the most applicable.
I. Preparation :- Stating the lessons aim, recalling of facts, and the setting of material to be presented.
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1930]
2. Presentation :- Securing of data or experience from read- ing, questioning or the like.
3. Association, comparison. Discussing of new material, arranging, etc.
4. Generalization.
5. Application.
A special arrangement of details in techniques of teaching, as may be applied to the subject of art, has been placed on file in the office of the School Department.
Art is, perhaps, one of the youngest subjects of the public school curriculum. Because of this newness, the subject matter has not been stereotyped or rigidly fixed, as to content. For this reason it is a much simpler problem to bring the objectives of art education into harmony with modern educational ideals than is the case with some of the older and more familiar studies. This correlation of subject matter with the art classes is therefore not only encouraged but is easily carried forward.
I feel Massachusetts is perhaps favored with its help and guidance to teachers of art. It is one of but five states in the union which has the help of a state art director. Massachusetts introduced art into the curriculum in 1860, and in 1871 appointed a state supervisor. More than half a century has elapsed and only the five states ;- namely, Massachusetts, Pennsylvanla, New York, Connecticut and California have offered this guidance to its teachers of art.
Monthly outlines are provided for each grade. These outlines are to be considered more or less as suggestions, rather than absolute requirements. Certain problems may be modified in accordance with varying conditions or units of work, providing they follow the general type of work indicated, and attain the objectives set up for the course.
I wish to express not only my thanks, but my appreciation to each member of our school board, to you, Mr. Lambert, and to each principal and teacher of the school department for assistance and for cooperation of this past year.
Most respectfully,
ANSTRICE CARTER KELLOGG.
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TOWN DOCUMENTS
[Dec. 31
Report on Music
Mr. Jesse M. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus, Mass. :
DEAR SIR,-I herewith submit my fourth annual report on music in the town of Saugus.
It is with great pleasure that I give this report as I feel that the efforts of the teachers and students and the results obtained thereby have been the most satisfactory during my four years in Saugus. Taking in consideration the periods given to it, I am positive that all phases of the vocal and instrumental music throughout our entire school system ranks among the highest in the State of Massachusetts. Comparison of the work in music produced in our schools with that elsewhere and remarks and criticisms from many people who are qualified to judge our work, as well as the high standing in music which our graduates attain in the various normal schools and colleges have proven this statement.
ELEMENTARY GRADES
Much to the delight of the grade teachers and pupils Miss Gertrude Hickey was reelected to her position in the department of music. At the opening of the school year in September, 1930, Miss Hickey was assigned the supervision of Grades I-VI inclu- sive with no work in the Junior High Schools. This enables me to visit the vocal classes once in two weeks and the instrumental once each week. There is also one-half day each week given to miscellaneous work viz. ; music appreciation, music programs, special help, etc. In addition I give general attention to each building twice per term.
There are six orchestras in the elementary grades consisting of the following instruments : Fourteen first violins, twelve second violins, one 'cello, three trumpets, one trombone, two clarionets, three saxophones, one drum and fourteen pianists. The Armi- tage, Ballard, Emerson, Felton, Mansfield and Oaklandvale fur- nish these orchestras. They play at the various school functions and Parent-Teachers' meetings. Once in four weeks a combined rehearsal is held in the High School auditorium, under my direc- tion. These pupils are well trained in preliminary orchestra technique and produce music pleasing to the ear. .
In addition to the above orchestras there are six first and second grade rhythmic orchestras or bands, which rehearse at regular periods entirely under the direction of Miss Hickey.
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
1930]
By comparing the personnel of the orchestra with that of last year you will find that a trombone, 'cello and clarinet have been added.
JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS
This Fall a decided change for the better was made in the music schedule of the Junior High Schools. Because of the extra classes and two-platoon system it was necessary to employ a teacher of music to assist in the Junior High Schools. To meet this neeed Miss Dorothy Eccles, graduate from the New England Conservatory of Music was elected assistant teacher of music in the Junior High Schools. In addition to her training, Miss Eccles has had two years' experience as a Supervisor of Music. >
Each class in both Junior High Schools has two class room periods per week plus one combined chorus period. Each building has its individual orchestra which has one rehearsal period of an hour per week. These orchestras perform at all school activities and occasional parent-teachers and other gather- ings. The combined personnel consists of around thirty-five members, not counting about ten pianists ; the following instru- ments are represented :- first violins, second violins, 'cellos, clarinets, trumpets, trombone, saxophone, drums and pianos. We need the following instruments :- piccolo, flute, baritone, melo- phone, as well as more of these already present. Each Junior High School has a Glee Glub.
Last Spring the Sweetser Junior High School very succesfully presented "The Ghost of Lollypop Bay," a delightful little oper- etta by Charles W. Cadman. Because of the great demand for tickets it was decided to give two evening performances. A large sum of money was realized ; some of the proceeds of which being used to purchase books pertaining to music, history, biography, etc., as well as octavio music for the Glee Club.
This year another enthusiastic Glee Club is working on the operetta "The Sunbonnet Girl" by Morgan and Johnson.
For the first time the Central Junior High School has a Glee club. This too is bubbling over with enthusiasm. A short operetta "Way Down South in Dixie" by Martins has been selected. Since the auditorium is occupied a great part of the time by the Senior High School activities, the Junior Glee Club is unable to prepare as lengthy an operetta as that of the Sweet- ser. Another drawback is the fact that according to the State Fire Laws of Massachusetts, no scenery can be used upon the stage in its present condition.
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
The music curriculum of the Senior High School is the same as that of last year. Every student is required to take chorus at least one period per week during school hours. The value of this requirement is being shown in the marked improvement of the singing in chorus and assemblies. From several of our chorus periods, individuals and groups of students are chosen at various times to appear at assemblies and similar occasions.
The mixed Glee Club has an enrollment of sixty-five members with the usual waiting list, the operetta, "The Belle of Bagdad" by Morgan and Johnson will be presented in the early spring. Last year "The Golden Trail," by Cadman, was given two evenings in the Town Hall. Altho' the expenses for a successfu production were heavy we realized a good profit. From some of the proceeds a drum, cymbals and drum major's baton were purchased for the band; a 'cello and viola for the orchestra as well as music for both band and orchestra.
THE ORCHESTRA
The High School orchestra is doing excellent work. At present we have enrolled twelve first violins, six second violins, one viola, one string bass, three clarinets, one flute, three trum- pets, one trombone, one mellophone, one saxophone, drums and bells and several pianists, the repetorie of the orchestra consists of selections suitable for use in assemblies, concert programs and the study of more advanced compositions by noted composers. This latter study is to produce in the student a love for and ability to understandingly appreciate the compositions of the masters as well as to prepare those who wish to continue more advanced orchestra work when through High School. Until we have enrolled in our orchestra the more unusual instruments we do not expect to play these numbers in public. Without doubt according to our growth in numbers during the last three years the time is close at hand when Saugus High School will have a complete orchestra ; that is all instruments of the symphony orchestra represented. We need a bassoon, oboe, French horn, 'cello and piccolo. Last May in all New England orchestra of 236 players which held its publie performance in Symphony Hall, Boston, we were represented by seven members namely :- Stuart Quint, Donald Hammond, Clason Lambert, John Wilson, Corine Allen, Edward Jackman and Vincent Pelrine. The committee in charge reported excellent work from the Saugus group. This year plans are being made to take the All New England orchestra
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
1930
to Syracuse, New York, to appear at the Eastern Music Super- visors Conference. If our boys and girls can find a way to finance the trip they or others to fill their place are invited to be members of the orchestra.
THE BAND
The band has come to stay. It has at present thirty-nine members. Four years ago the High School had only ten trumpet players, now there are eighteen. For the first time the band appeared in public last winter at a Parent-Teachers meeting in Assembly Hall having been organized only about three months : the next public appearance was Class Day in June. At the opening of this school year much enthusiasm was shown among the boys and girls. At present four girls make up its personnel one of them Harriet Burton '33 acting as drum major. Edward Jackman '31 is band leader. The band played at two football games this Fall doing very good work for its first appearance out doors.
We are in great need of bass instruments and have been hoping the town would be able to purchase some of them for us as it is rather unusual for a High School student to own these expensive and non-solo instruments. A new bass instrument of reliable make and one the town would be proud to see used in the band would cost around $200. Other towns and cities appropriate money for this purpose. Until we have these instru- ments in our band it will be unwise for us to enter the annual New England Band contests and parade. Uniforms, too are much needed if we plan to parade with bands from other towns.
At present the band is planning to give a concert for a benefit to raise money to help purchase uniforms or instruments. We would be glad of any donation large or small or the gift of any band instrument. The whole town will be benefited by the band and as far as possible the students and myself are trying to earn and save every cent we can to be used for its success.
The Parent-Teachers Association of the High School very gen- erously presented to the music department the sum of $75.00 with which to purchase an orchestral instrument.
I think mention should be made of our large number of efficient pianists in the High School. Four years ago it was impossible to find more than two who were capable of reading at sight the music for our chorus and orchestra periods. Now we have in actual use each week fourteen and four more in reserve who could at a minute's notice take their place at the piano and do good work. I owe this to their Junior High training and the co-operation of the various piano teachers of the town.
C
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
We also have students trained to conduct the chorus and orchestra in an assembly providing it is necessary for me to be elsewhere.
Again in closing I must quote Longfellow's words :
"Nothing useless is, or low Each thing in its place is best ;
And what seems but idle show Strengthens and supports the rest.
Build today, then, strong and sure, With a firm and ample base ; And ascending and secure, Shall tomorrow find its place."
Success present and future, for the music in the schools of Saugus is still my chief aim.
I thank you Mr. Lambert for your cooperation and interest, also Mr. Evans, Mr. Young, the Principals of all grade buildings, the members of the school committee, teachers, students and townspeople who have assisted me in my work in the Music De- partment.
Respectfully submitted,
ETHEL M. EDWARDS.
Report of Supervisor of Penmanship
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus, Mass.
DEAR MR. LAMBERT,-I respectfully submit to you my second annual report as Supervisor of Handwriting in the Elementary grades of Saugus.
Last June an exhibition of penmanship was held in each class room. It showed conclusively that the teachers had put real effort into the year's work. A similar exhibition is planned for next June and all parents will be cordially invited to view the papers in the various school buildings.
Grade One made some very interesting alphabet books. Words like apple, baby, cow, etc., were written and illustrated. Grade Two made Health Booklets. Sentences were written, such as "Brush your teeth daily," and illustrated with pictures cut from magazines.
The third grade teachers are to be complimented on the splen- did results achieved in teaching the use of pen and ink. This is one of the hardest steps in learning to write. No child was
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
1930]
allowed to use a pen until he wrote very lightly with pencil, formed the letters well, and sat in the correct position. After achieving these requirements, he could choose a bright blue, yellow or green pen grooved to fit the fingers. How the children did work for those pens !
The opportunity classes have done excellent work this year. These children are able to do many things well with their hands and most of them can write very nicely.
This year each class room is provided with large white letters written on a black background. These are placed in the front of the room where they can be easily seen. Each room is also pro- vided with a handwriting scale by which the child can see whether or not his writing is equal to the standard for his grade.
During May and June many children in each grade were given certificates or badges for ability in writing. The sixth grade pupils worked for the Junior High School diplomas awarded by the Zaner and Bloser Company and 48 were won.
Due to the two platoon system I am very disappointed that penmanship had to be dropped in the Central Junior High School. I do hope that a new building will be available soon so that former programs may again be followed because Junior High School pupils need regular instruction in penmanship.
I wish to thank you, Mr. Lambert, and the members of the School Committee for your interest in my work. I also wish to extend to the principals and teachers of Saugus my sincere appreciation for their most kind cooperation.
Respectfully,
January 12, 1931.
MABEL NELSON, Supervisor of Handwriting.
Report on Sewing
DEAR MR. LAMBERT,-I herewith submit to you my first report of the work in the Sewing Department.
Upon entering the system in September I found the work had progressed far enough so that the eighth grade classes could start at once upon underwear that they could use themselves. I allowed a choice between two garments.
During the summer Miss Lillian Dahlin was appointed as assistant and the classes at Sweetser Junior High were carried on under her able guidance until Thanksgiving.
The next article to be made was also selected by the class and a bit more diffierent than the first.
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
The notebooks have been a continuance of last year, adding some elementary work and samples of new work.
The seventh grade classes have made a fine start for a well laid foundation.
The work there has been slower and less varied. Many lessons have been devoted to elementary work and then applied to their first project, a sewing bag. The second article for these classes is a simple apron to gain knowledge of the sewing machine and use of the first embroidery stitches.
Before the end of the year I hope to have the eighth grade complete one hemstitched article, and a dress, in some cases an ensemble suit.
The seventh grade will make one undergarment and a simple dress.
I wish to express my thanks to you Mr. Lambert, and Mr. Young for your help and interest in my work.
Respectfully submitted,
RUTH ELEANOR DOUGLAS.
Report of Director of Manual Training Department Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools,
Saugus, Mass.
DEAR SIR,-I herewith submit my sixth annual report of the Manual Training Department for 1930
This year the boys in the seventh grade made tabourettes, book troughs, double corner shelves, and double flat hanging wall shelves, with a total of about 250 pieces. These were painted in bright colored enamels, and some were finished with stain and shellac.
The boys in the eighth grade made end tables, costumers, tab- ourettes, triple corner shelves, triple flat hanging wall shelves, and book troughs, with a total of about 200 pieces. These were finished the same as in the seventh grade.
In addition to the regular class work, the department made several first aid boxes, two large traffic signs which are used on the turnpike at Walnut street under the direction of Officer Mansfield. We equipped the small room in Mr. Young's office with shelves for supplies and made a group of shelves for his office.
At the annual exhibitions in both the Sweetser and High Schools, the Manual Training work spoke for itself, and again this year, as in the past at the Topsfield Fair, I believe the exhi- bition was one of the best.
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REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
1930]
As in the past I most earnestly hope that Mechanical Drawing will be put into the High School program.
In closing, I wish to thank Mr. Lambert and the members of the School Committee for their help, and interest shown during the past year.
Respectfully submitted, PAUL BUND.
Report of School Nurse
Mr. Jesse W. Lambert, Superintendent of Schools, Saugus.
DEAR SIR,-I herewith submit my ninth annual report as school nurse for the year ending December 31, 1930.
Number of visits to schools, 603 ; home visits, 296 ; exclusions for pediculosis, 169. All pediculosis cases followed up, all cases returned with the exception of five which were excluded December 31. In addition to home visits for pediculosis, the home visits for other cases were as follows: sore throat, 13; sickness in family, 9 ; colds, 29; measles, 17; impetigo, 24 ; infected foot, 2 ; mentality, 2 ; swollen glands, 8 ; German measles, 6 ; truancy, 7 ; headache, 4; heart, 2; chicken pox, 23 ; scarlet fever, 3; exposed to scarlet fever, I ; mumps, 9 ; appendix, I ; home to help mother, 3; unclean, 13; sick stomach, 3; toothache, I ; defective vision, !1 ; hurt on school grounds, 2 ; poison ivy, 2 ; rash, 4 ; whooping cough, 11 ; scabies, 5 ; not at home, 14 ; under weight, 17; boils, 3 ; tonsilitis, 4 ; grippe, 5 ; no shoes, 2 ; no rubbers, I ; no clothing, 3. In cases where children were absent because of lack of shoes, rubbers or clothing, these were provided and the children returned to school.
In September and October the children were given a physical examination by Dr. Penny, Dr. Davis, and Dr. Furbush, at which I assisted in checking up the physical record cards with the physicians. These physical record cards, which are required by the state, are extremely helpful in showing the physical con- dition and improvement of the child from one year to the next.
In November and December I assisted the school physicians in giving toxin - anti toxin treatment for diphtheria prevention to 372 children.
The children in the grade schools have been weighed and measured. Out of approximately 2,500 children, 129 were found to be ro per cent underweight and 47 were 15 per cent under- weight.
When any contagious disease is reported, all the children in that particular class room are examined and suspicious cases ex-
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TOWN DOCUMENTS.
[Dec. 31
cluded from school. This is done daily until all danger of con- tagion is past.
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