USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Swampscott > Town annual report of Swampscott 1926 > Part 13
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The matter of civic pride enters here also. Certainly no one can take any pride in our present high school building, its grounds, or in its equipment. Practically all of our neighboring cities and towns have far superior high school accommodations; Lynn, Salem, Peabody, Beverly, Saugus, Marblehead, all have fine high school buildings.
All these reasons combined seem to make out a case for a new high school plant, central in its location, modern in its structure and equip- ment, inspiring in its design and appointments. Nothing else the citizens could do would make so noteworthy a contribution to the cause of education in our town.
Other matters which should receive consideration in the near future are:
Development and adornment of school grounds.
Gymnasium facilities for the Junior High School.
Practical arts work for both boys and girls in Grades V and VI.
May I again at this time commend to your attention the reports of other members of the staff which follow. And in closing my report may I express to the members of the committee my keen appreciation of your sympathetic and constructive co-operation in the handling of our problems during the past year.
Respectfully submitted,
HAROLD F. DOW, Superintendent of Schools.
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REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE HADLEY SCHOOL
To the School Committee and Superintendent of Schools:
Mrs. Hardy and Gentlemen :- I hereby submit my report as principal of the Hadley School. The completion of the annex to house the first six grades has made it possible for both schools to function much more efficiently. The difference in the forms of organization made it in- advisable for the two schools to be housed in the same building. We are no longer crowded, classes are not obliged to recite as formerly in the big auditorium or in a very small room with no system of ven- tilation.
The housing of the manual training workshops in the annex gave much needed space for lunch room facilities. In one of these two rooms, the lunch is prepared and served under the direction of a well trained and experienced dietitian and an assistant. The aim of this department is to serve in cafeteria style a well balanced menu at rea- sonable prices. The other room is provided with chairs and here the children may eat their luncheon in a leisurely and comfortable manner and still have time for some recreation in the fresh air. The half hour added to the school day has made it possible to lengthen this period ten minutes. In connection with the discussion of a school lunch and in view of public interest in such topics, it is gratifying to report that the Hadley School lunch receives no part of the school appropriation for its operating expenses including salaries, with the exception of the payment by the School Department of the gas and electricity bills.
The particular aim of the teachers in the elementary schools this year is to give the pupils increased drill and facility in handling the mechanics of the tool subjects. The importance of these first years, when the common training necessary for all children is given, is being emphasized.
Reading :- The Bolenius system of reading is giving our children greater drill not only in reading but in interpreting the printed page. This goal must be fully attained if the boy or girl is to accomplish more advanced work successfully.
Spelling :- The spelling aim this year is three fold: To have each pupil acquire a definite written spelling vocabulary suited to his grade and age. To develop a syllable sense and to correct the slovenly pro- nunciation that leads to poor spelling. To help pupils to overcome individual difficulties and to suggest corrective measures.
English :- The work this year is being planned to increase ability in speaking distinctly and in an interesting and correct manner; to enable pupils to express themselves clearly in written English un- spoiled by mispelled words, ungrammatical constructions and errors in punctuation.
Arithmetic :- Pupils completing the elementary grades should have the ability to use the fundamental processes with a reasonable degree
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of accuracy and speed. A working knowledge of simple common and decimal fractions should also be accomplished. With the aid of tests and Courtis drill material our aim is to increase the facility of the pupils in order that the knowledge may be of practical use in life, and also to provide a foundation for those who take more advanced mathe- matics.
Penmanship :- The work done in penmanship aims to give the pupils skill in writing a clear, legible hand. The demand for better writing is growing and the work started last year interested the pupils, teachers and parents.
May I state that these special aims of the teachers of the Hadley elementary school are not to be lost sight of in the Junior High de- partment, as a difference in standards would defeat the purpose.
At the writing of this report the grade school has had but one change in staff. Miss Willey, a teacher of experience and success, was transferred to fill the only vacancy there.
The remainder of this report is concerned particularly with the Jun- ior High School.
Massachusetts has passed legislation that physical education shall be provided in the public schools. The responsibility for the providing of a suitable place is left to each community. Until this year, the bricked yard and the school corridors have been the only places where physical education could be carried on. At present, the room where the children eat their luncheon can also be used for these classes. Its small dimensions limit to a great extent the type of exercises which can be given. Former United States Commissioner of Education, Philander P. Claxton, states that, "No girl or boy has been rightly and completely educated who does not reach womanhood or manhood with a good strong heart, a steady pulse, and nerves that do not quiver. Knowledge, ideals, principles, and even skill are of little value unless the man or woman possessing them has the power to make them effec- tive in the active every day duties of life." To meet this opportunity and responsibility capable health teachers, formerly known as physical education teachers, are necessary. Mr. Hutchinson serves in this capacity for the Junior High School boys. Miss Boynton as supervisor in the grades, teacher in both high schools, and coach of high school athletics for girls has obviously limited time for the Junior High School. The pupils in this school are in many respects different from the children in elementary or senior high schools. The centralized Junior High School brings together so large a number of students that the development of a valuable program of games, athletics and recreation adapted to the needs and interests of this group would be possible if a full time teacher of health education for girls could be assigned to this school. This critical age demands an outlet for energy that no other age requires; hence, the importance of adequate equip- ment for physical education in school time and for leisure time as well. I recommend that the School Committee investigate the need
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of a gymnasium for the use of the Junior High School pupils. Such a gymnasium would also serve the elementary pupils of the town and might be used by adult groups in the community.
The value of a library to a school cannot easily be measured. The extension of the school plant this summer allowed a room to be equipped for reading and reference work. It is a step in the right direction. The use of books is one of the most profitable ways in which to teach children to supplement class room work and to spend leisure time. To develop a love of books and to give instructions in their use are among the chief duties of the school. If these duties are to be rightly performed a well equipped library and a trained librarian teacher would be the ideal.
A play and entertainment given by the Hadley School teachers pro- vided one hundred and eighty-seven dollars for the purchase of books. Interested parents and friends have also made gifts of books and mag- azines. Much remains to be done in this department but a good be- ginning has been made .-
When the Hadley School was built an up-to-date cooking room was provided for the girls. The girls in the vocational courses elect sew- ing in the seventh grade, sewing and cooking in the eighth grade and millinery is added in the ninth grade. Until this year, these courses had to be given in the cooking room with the pupils sitting on cook- ing stools and with no facilities for cutting, drafting and fitting. The opening of the annex allowed a room to be equipped for this group which when not in use by them is used for other study or recitation groups. The achievement of these classes already shows the advant- ages of the new arrangement.
The Junior High School has not been so fortunate as the Hadley elementary school in retention of teachers. Eight new teachers or forty-four percent of the faculty are new this year. Such a turn over is to be deplored. It is generally agreed that a well trained and ex- perienced teacher is a necessity. The Junior High School represents the most important departure from the former type of school organiza- tion and demands teachers of equal training or experience with the Senior High School group. A faculty able to understand the needs, desires and problems of the boys and girls must be procured. A study of the pupils as an individual is the constant problem of the Junior High School teacher. Every effort must be made to secure and hold teachers who will do this work successfully.
It is difficult indeed for me to express adequately my appreciation of the efforts of those teachers associated with me who meet their problems and carry on their work earnestly, faithfully, and at times inspiringly.
The Manual of Massachusetts says :- "In order that the school may perform its maximum service, its aims, accomplishments, and needs must be brought home to the public. The people must be made to
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realize that the school is a co-operative enterprise dependent for its success on the whole-hearted support of the community." The interest and support of the parents of our pupils have been consistenly evi- dent many times and I urge that every means of co-operation through visiting, conferences and constructive criticism be continued and in- creased.
In closing this report I wish to speak of the happiness I experience in my work. This is due in no small degree to the co-operation of all the agencies connected with the school, particularly Mr. Dow and the School Committee.
Respectfully submitted,
ALICE L. SHAW, Principal.
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REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE CLARKE SCHOOL
To the School Committee and Superintendent of Schools:
Mrs. Hardy and Gentlemen :- I herewith submit the following report for the Clarke School:
For the years ending June 1925 and June 1926 we have averaged about 56 dismissals and 156 cases of tardiness from an average of 244 belonging and a daily attendance of 92%. These figures are poor but compared with the figures in June 1919, dismissals 227, tardiness 183, and 89% of attendance, they show a slight gain in co-operation and better understanding between the home and the school.
This year the grades in the Clarke School are as follows:
Entered Through Promotion or
Grade
Retarded
Otherwise
Total
1
7
33
40
2
4
32
36
3
5
23
28
4
3
39
42
5
2
35
37
6
0
65
65
Totals
21
227
248
In the sixth grades there are three accelerated pupils.
There have been 14 changes in the teaching staff of our school since 1918. This does not tend, I believe, toward the best scholastic results. Teachers of minimum experience who enter our schools on the mini- mum salary are more apt to change as soon as a position offering more money is open, thus leaving another vacancy to fill. To obviate this I would recommend discarding the minimum salary schedule and adopting the policy of engaging teachers of maximum experience and of maximum worth.
I would further offer for your consideration a plan suggested to. me by a parent, viz .: that the first and second grades begin school at 8.30 with the older children and be dismissed at 12.30. The little children's best hours are early in the day; with few exceptions they are at school and are very noisy before their session opens. The 12.30 dismissal would afford a luncheon at a more normal time of day and I believe the adjustment to school would be easier.
I cannot speak too highly of the earnest work and co-operation of all the teachers and of the janitor in their faithful endeavor to do their best work, and I wish at this time, to thank you and through you the administrative body for furnishing necessary equipment and help. at all times.
Respectfully submitted,
BLANCHE E. DOYLE,
Principal.
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REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE MACHON SCHOOL
To the School Committee and Superintendent of Schools:
Mrs. Hardy and Gentlemen :- Since many of the problems of this school are presented to you in the regular individual reports or at conferences, or principals' meetings, the matter of this report is brief and confined to such business as has not been so considered.
Attendance :- A study of the notes of excuse brought by children during the last two years shows that in only about ten per cent. of the cases of tardiness were the children at fault. In the other ninety per cent. the children had been delayed by the homes for various reasons. The study also showed that, with few exceptions, the cases of tardi- ness were confined to a few homes. The problem, then, is to present to such homes, if possible, the importance of punctuality and to get their co-operation. I recommend that printed notices of tardiness and absence be provided which can be sent to the parents with a request that they be returned to the school bearing the reasons for absence or tardiness and the signature of the parent.
Assemblies :- Our regular monthly meetings in the school audito- rium are being held as usual. They aim to
1. Bring the school together in a project of common interest and so increase the school spirit.
2. Motivate the regular class room work in Reading, Language, Music, etc. The programs include such work.
3. Develop poise, confidence and initiative.
Besides the regular assemblies, we have had some special assemblies during which the children were instructed
(a) In "Fire Prevention" by a representative of the fire de- partment.
(b) In "Safety on the Streets" by a member of the police de- partment.
(c) In "Patriotism-Love of the Flag" by a member of the Woman's Relief Corps.
At the assembly devoted to the subject of "Health" a play called "Milk for the Whole World" was presented, and later repeated at a meeting of the S. P. T. A.
Curriculum :- The subjects receiving most emphasis just now are reading and penmanship.
Since much of the failure of Junior High School pupils has been traced to their inability to use books and to comprehend what they read in books, texts or reference books, we feel that the importance of reading in the elementary school cannot be overestimated. This is only the third year of the use of the Bolenius Reading System and so, perhaps, a little early to judge fairly of its success in our school. No doubt the standardized tests in reading soon to be given will give
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us some measure of our success in following it. We are of the opinion (based on observation and the results of such diagnostic tests as are frequently given according to the Bolenius Manual) that children have a greater comprehension of what they read, that they are more in- terested in reading, and that they are forming better reading habits.
The work in penmanship has improved under supervision. We trust this supervision is to continue.
Standardized Tests :- The Stanford Achievement Test in all sub- jects, the Wilson Language Error Test, the Thorndike-McCall Read- ing Test, and the National Intelligence Test have been given from time to time in this school. No doubt the value of standardized tests has been overrated, but they are nevertheless, the best measure we have of the success of teaching. Those tests which help a teacher to diagnose the weaknesses of individuals in a class so that she can work along remedial lines are particularly valuable.
Extra Curricula Activities :- Two afternoons a week during the winter months the Machon School Reading Room (we can scarcely call it a library) is open for the convenience of pupils. Books may be read in the reading room or borrowed to take home. Our books are few in number and we have no room properly equipped for a reading room, but we are slowly but surely gathering both books and other equip- inent.
One afternoon each week the sewing class meets with one of the teachers who is interested in Junior Red Cross Work. This sewing class is composed of girls from several grades.
School Grounds :- The school grounds are in very poor condition. In a town like Swampscott they ought to be beautiful, and we would like to beautify them . However, this cannot be done until enough filling in and grading has been done to provide a play ground for the children on school property. To be sure, we are near enough to Jackson Park to use that, but during a greater part of the school year Jackson Park is too wet to be used as a playground for small children.
In closing I would like to name for you the following agencies whose co-operation has encouraged us in our work with the boys and girls of Machon district: The police department who have worked with us in the matter of safety, the fire department which sent a representa- tive to instruct us in fire prevention, the health department, particular- ly our school nurse whose work is invaluable, the Woman's Relief Corps, which presented us with new flags, the street department whose head responded to a hurry call for help after the big storms of last Febru- ary, and finally the loyal parents who, realizing the importance of the teachers' work and the necessity for co-operation, have worked constantly with the teachers for the good of the children.
Respectfully submitted,
MARY I. PERKINS,
Principal.
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[Dec. 31
REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE PALMER SCHOOL
To the School Committee and Superintendent of Schools:
Mrs. Hardy and Gentlemen :- Each year the problem of arranging the grades in the Palmer School becomes more and more difficult. At the beginning of the present year in Grade One there were twenty- five children. In order to fill the room, pupils from all over town who reached the age of five years in January or February 1926 were ad- mitted. Every seat is now in use. In September there were twenty- nine second grade pupils, making for Room Two a sufficient number, with the necessary allowance for children coming later into the neigh- borhood.
We are obliged to have the third and fourth grades in one room. This year there were forty-three pupils in the two grades. Five children who rightfully belonged in our district had previously been sent to the Hadley fourth grade. In order to equalize the number in the two rooms seven children were retained in Room Two, making thirty- six in each room. This arrangement necessitates doing third grade work with seven children and second grade work with twenty-nine in Room Two. In Room Three there are nineteen third grade pupils and sixteen fourth.
It is impossible to give a double grade the time allotted to each subject. We obviate this difficulty in a measure by using a small Teachers' Room as a recitation room, and having one division of each grade recite there. The room is too small for comfort or efficiency, but it is the best we can do under the circumstances.
Room Four was crowded in September and six sixth grade pupils were sent to the Hadley School. It is hard in the lower grades to have two grades in one room. It is much more difficult in the upper grades. It requires double work on the teacher's part; she has two lessons to prepare in each subject. It is not an easy problem to keep one class busy and be able to give concentrated attention to their work while at the same time another class is being taught in an interesting way.
Our present facilities will be entirely inadequate for next year. The third and fourth grades will be too large to combine, and we should have another class room and another teacher. One alternative would be to send the fifth and sixth grades to some other school and make of the Palmer School a building for the first four grades only. The Platoon System would be another plan, having a session for the younger children in the afternoon.
This section of the town is building up rapidly and sufficient school accommodations should be provided for six grades. I would recom- mend the addition of at least one room which would serve immediate needs.
The teachers of the Palmer School, although handicapped by double
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grades, have been able by hard work and much thought and prepara- tion to keep each grade up to, and often above, the standard, as has been proven by the standardized tests.
I have always found you, Mr. Superintendent, and the School Com- mittee ready to help in all difficult situations and I know you will do your utmost to provide this community with a building which shall give to the children the facilities needed for their highest development.
Respectfully submitted, LOUISE C. STANLEY, Principal.
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[Dec. 31
REPORT OF THE SUPERVISOR OF MUSIC
To the School Committee and Superintendent of Schools:
Mrs. Hardy and Gentlemen :- Music has always played an important part in the life and development of the people. The realization of its educational as well as cultural value has been felt in this country to a greater extent the last ten years than ever before. This is due to two influences, first, the World War, which aroused nation-wide in- terest in group singing; and second, the radio, which has made it pos- sible for more people to hear good music and has stimulated an interest in the study of musical instruments.
Years ago a musical education was available only to a few. Now it is an integral part of our school system, worthy to be classed with the other important subjects and to demand a reasonable amount of the school time not only because of its inspirational value but because it is broadly educational.
The actual practise of reading music in a class room requires close concentration and quick thinking, and demands the concerted effort of the entire class throughout the whole lesson.
The activities of the music supervisor may be grouped under three heads, namely, the work accomplished in the elementary schools, the Junior High School, and the Senior High School.
Music in the Elementary Grades
It is only through a good foundation in the elementary grades that students can find real enjoyment in their future musical activities. It is here that they learn and apply in their songs all the principles of time and tune which they may need later on, in order to sing intelli- gently. Two-part singing is begun during the last two months of the fourth and fifth grades and is sung almost entirely in the sixth grade, Each elementary room is visited once a week by the Supervisor. Be- cause of the efficient preparation by the grade teachers we have been able to accomplish more than ever before in the Junior High School this last year.
Music in the Junior High School
In Class I three-part music is begun. The class meets twice a week, once in an assembly period, and once in a smaller class room period. Classes II and III meet weekly.
Last year two Glee Clubs were formed, a Girl's Glee Club of forty- five to'res under the leadership of Miss Marjorie Colton, and a Boys' Glee Club of thirty voices. These organizations together with the Jun- ior High orchestra of thirty players gave a successful concert in March, the proceeds of which were used to purchase new music books
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for the school. Since these books were put into use there has been a decided improvement in the three and four-part singing of the Junior High School.
The orchestra played between the acts of the Dramatic Club and Class III plays, and all three clubs participated in occasional concerts outside of the school.
Music in the High School
Before last year only a limited number of students sang in the Glee Club, the rehearsals being held after school hours. Last year a new plan was put into effect, whereby the regular music period of the week was converted into a Glee Club period open to all who were desirous of taking part in the annual concert and of assisting in the gradua- tion chorus. One hundred and twenty pupils were members of the club last year.
The musical organizations of the school-Glee Club, Orchestra of eighteen players, and Double Male Quartet-participated in the sixth annual High School Concert which was held in March. The quartet sang before eighteen audiences last season and the orchestra made sev- eral appearances. The members of these two organizations held all their rehearsals outside of school hours and they are to be commended for the fine spirit which they showed and for the willingness to give so freely of their time.
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