USA > Massachusetts > Bristol County > Dighton > Town annual report of the offices of the town of Dighton 1936 > Part 4
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ANNUAL REPORT
victory, it was a team superior to the one placed on the field last year. A football team cannot be built in two months, but rather requires years of hard work and experience on the part of the boys participating. I look forward to a more properous season next year.
The basketball season has just commenced at the writing of this report. To date we have played one game and won it. In both sports the coaches who served last year, served in the same capacity this year.
I am looking forward to new developments in girls' activi- ties. Feeling that for some time the girls have been more or less neglected in some aspects of their school life, we hope to develop activities for them which will equal any other phase of school life.
In the matters of health and physical well-being of our pupils we have exercised due care. Boys taking part in competitive sports have been examined for any physical irregularities and have been made to file a consent slip signed by the parent or guardian. All other boys have been examin- ed for physical defects and these records kept as a part of their guidance program. I expect that arrangements will soon be made for the girls' physical examinations, other than those carried on by the department.
It is rather early in the academic year to speak about the class graduated last June; yet five of the class, together with one post-graduate, have entered college training of some sort. Two of these, however, have been forced temporarily to dis- continue, due to circumstances beyond their control. Two went into business school, one into domestic science training and two into industrial work. It is encouraging that such a
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ANNUAL REPORT
high percentage of a group recently graduated should go on to further training and education.
In closing, I wish to express my appreciation to you for your constant interest and cooperation in all the activities of the school.
Respectfully submitted, GEORGE R. AUSTIN,
Principal.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF GIRLS
Superintendent of Schools
My dear Sir :
It is with pleasure I present to you my second report as Dean of Girls of Dighton Junior-Senior High School.
The goal striven for during the past year has been to start each girl as far as circumstances have permitted, in that branch of learning for which she seemed particularly fitted. In order to carry out this aim, home contacts have been made, individual conferences held, tests have been given, question- naires compiled, and time and study have been applied to the problems of each individual girl.
Each girl in the school has been met at least once each week. Many times once a week has proven inadequate; in that case more frequent conferences have been made. Many conferences have been held concerning questions of scholastic standing, and other problems which have arisen in individual cases. The girls have responded whole-heartedly to sug- gestions given and have shown a fine spirit of cooperation.
Dighton High School should be proud of its splendid group of girls. Knowing them as I do, I can state that they are a fine group. I wish to express my appreciation for the opportunity of working for' and with the girls.
Respectfully submitted,
DORIS B. HUTCHINSON,
Dean of Girls.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Boys)
To the Superintendent of Schools
The Physical Education course has been somewhat changed this year. The goals or achievements are more definite and the trend of the whole course leads to these ends.
Every boy, before being allowed to partake in the contents of the course, is examined by our school doctor. He is ex- amined for defects and weaknesses of his body and all results are recorded so that the department can check from time to time as to the progress of rectifying the same. Periodically the physician, Dr. Souza, is consulted, at which time he ad- vises me as to the programs that should be obtained and recommends slight changes in the boy's routine of living or play. The posture of each individual is checked constantly and the boy is given certain exercises to correct his posture.
Five minute talks are given at the start of each class period on subjects of interest to the boys. They are taught the rudiments of different games, sport behavior, history of sports, history of the Olympic Games, etc. It is not the idea of the department to make professional athletes of the boys but more to acquaint them with the different sports so that they may enjoy them in leisure time.
Marching and calisthenics are deemed important in build- ing and rectifying the body. However, over indulgence would make this form of exercise monotonous and with this in mind is used conservatively and at times when deemed most useful to the boy. Each class has a certain number of exercises which are mastered by the end of the school year. They are taught to walk and stand correctly so that the body and its functions will not be impaired.
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ANNUAL REPORT -
A little time each period is devoted to play and relaxation. Basketball, running, touch football, baseball, volley ball, relay races, and social dancing are some of the sports, and students are allowed to participate in during this period. During the progress of play, form and actions are noted and corrected. This affords the boys rest from their academic work as well as a chance to rectify certain habits.
Bi-weekly lectures are held which last a whole period and the students take notes on the same. In the lower grades, the general plan of the body, its construction and functions, are studied. This is to better acquaint the student with himself and to prepare him for the lectures in the higher grades.
The upper grades have lectures on diseases of the body, their symptoms, and causes, so that they may better be pre- pared to notice any ill effects in later life. Typewritten notes are given each student before each lecture so that the talk may be followed more easily.
In closing may I thank the office force of the school and Dr. Souza, for their cooperation in fulfilling this program, and especially my Superintendent, Mr. Bailey, for his work in helping to lay out the course and his valuable suggestions as to procedure.
Respectfully submitted, HENRY C. LEVINSON,
· Physical Education Director.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION
(Girls)
To the Superintendent of Schools
Dear Sir :
To understand what this department is trying to do one must understand the true meaning of Physical Education, which is developing for normal growth, training for healthy living, and founding the basis of good citizenship. There- fore, the formulation of the program must be based on pre- liminary studies of environment and the educative and pro- tective functions of Physical Education. Physical Education is apt to be interpreted by adults from an adult standpoint, merely as exercise.
Before any student was allowed to take Physical Education, an examination was given in which the height, weight, and posture were determined. Some students were found to have defects which can be cured by proper exercise. Twice during the year each girl will be re-examined for a check-up on these tests. In this way the instructor keeps in constant touch with the development of the child.
Through our Hiking Clubs and stressing living and playing in the out-of-doors we try for healthy living. Another phase of this program is an occasional talk about the care of the body and how not to abuse it. For the girls that are physically unfit to take part in the Physical Education program, there is a health chart to abide by for thirty days at a time. This makes the girls feel as though they are a part of the class.
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ANNUAL REPORT
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The traits we stress most in our training for good citizen- ship are: fair play, cleanliness, and good sportsmanship. These are developed through the kind of games taught and played. For illustration, observe a good basketball game. The team well-trained is easily discernible by its reaction toward decisions. We are trying to stamp indelibly on the mind of the student these three traits, from which more good traits are born, that she may carry them all through the rest of her life.
To carry on a correct program in Physical Education is a great undertaking. This I will do to the best of my ability.
Respectfully submitted,
HELEN L. ABRAMS,
Director.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE MUSIC SUPERVISOR
To the Superintendent of Schools
Dear Sir:
The task of the music teacher in the high schools is con- fined to teaching the seventh, eighth, and ninth grades; a Girls' Glee Club and a group of twelve boys who seem to make better progress by themselves.
The chief problem so far has been the attitude which seems to prevail that "music is just a play period", "a recreation", "a minor subject", "there is nothing to learn, we just sing"; the concept seeming to be "we sing beautiful songs just any- way we please" rather than having the concept of singing beautiful songs in a beautiful manner.
For that reason it has been necessary to evaluate the func- tion of the music period for the different groups in order that they might re-evaluate for themselves the importance of singing accurately and correctly or "wisely".
Then the attempt has been made, through the method of teaching and class-room procedure, and the results or success- es obtained through these, to make the study of simple music technicalities an apparent necessity to them in all their song experiences.
This then is our present aim:
1. That no music period shall be conducted from merely a recreational or amusement standpoint, in the mind of the child.
2. That each child so far as his capacities and abilities will permit, shall have a practical and working knowledge of music for himself.
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ANNUAL REPORT
3. That when he sings he shall sing correctly and accurate- ly so far as rhythm, tone and techniques are concerned.
If this can be accomplished the boys and girls will find music an open door to many pleasurable experiences and opportunities; and will achieve that self-mastery and character development which can come to them in no other way than through a serious, thoughtful study of music.
The work of the supervisor in the Elementary Schools has been a happy experience. The splendid cooperation and friendly spirit of the teachers have made it a not too difficult task.
A survey of conditions in general and an inventory of all available music materials have been made. Teachers have conducted classes under observation and conferences relating to the conducting of classes and the use of materials have been carried on.
There will, of necessity, have to be some changes made in procedure and in equipment as was indicated in the survey. Some of this is being done in such a way as not to make it too apparent that the change is taking place. A gradual and imperceptible change is better than a precipitate and drastic overturn as it makes adaptability easier on the part of both teacher and child.
A set of aims and goals with an achievement sheet is being prepared which should help in discovering and determining how the work is progressing.
It is apparent that there is a growing appreciation and interest manifest among teachers and pupils as to the value, place, and function of music in the school program.
Respectfully submitted,
ALICE L. STURTEVANT
Music Supervisor.
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE LOCAL SUPERVISOR- W. P. A. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
To the Superintendent of Schools :-
I herewith submit a report of the work carried on in the Town of Dighton under the Educational Program of the Works Progress Administration :-
We have at the present time three nursery school units in this town. One is located in the South Dighton Elemen- tary School and two units in the North Dighton Primary School. We have enrolled nearly 90 pupils. Ten teachers are employed in the three units.
Children from two years to five years of age are eligible to enter these classes and by special permission we may take children over five years of age provided the children in the lower age group have been taken care of first. These classes are established primarily for the under-privileged child but we are not restricted to this group alone.
Under the regulations as laid down by the Federal Govern- ment we must not conduct these classes as regular school kindergartens. We are a pre-kindergarten unit: We must not at any time take up work with these children which be- longs to the first grade teacher. The value of these classes for the most part is to give the child a chance to adjust him- self to a daily routine, to establish good health habits, to wait upon himself as far in as he is able, to learn to use the large and small muscles of his body, to think for himself, and to adjust himself to playing and working with other children.
The principals and first grade teachers with whom I have talked about this work have assured me that they feel that these nursery school classes are well worth while. The first grade teacher invariably says that she finds that the child
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ANNUAL REPORT
who enters the first grade from the pre-school unit becomes adjusted much more rapidly than a child who has not been away from home before.
.
Under the regulations of the Federal Government we are expected to operate on a two-session basis with a hot noon meal and afternoon naps for the children. The government furnishes the money for the food for this noon meal at the rate of ten cents per day per child. It is the job of the head teacher in each unit to see that an attractive and nourishing meal of well-cooked food is served each day on this basis. It is being done exceptionally well. After observing the noon meal in other places I feel certain that the meals served in our nursery schools are as well planned and cooked as any that I have seen elsewhere.
The government also furnishes folding cots for the children in order that they may have an afternoon nap. We have cots enough for every child enrolled. The government also furnishes teaching material for seat work such as construction paper, newsprint, crayons, paints and easels, scissors and other small items. We may get some toys and tools if we so desire.
These classes operate at no cost to the town for teachers' salaries, teaching and play materials, food and cots. The school department of the town does furnish the necessary rooms and school furniture, heat, light, and janitors' service and we as teachers under the program appreciate this very much.
Respectfully submitted,
LOUISE C. WELCH
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ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE SCHOOL PHYSICIANS AND NURSE
To the School Committee of the Town of Dighton:
1 The early part of 1936, during February and March, pre- school and school children as well as adults were subjected to a disease that reached epidemic stage. There were several diagnoses made, as the disease· resembled both measles and scarlet fever. Every precaution was taken to control the situation. Daily examinations were made by the school physicians and the teachers were most cooperative in their continuous observation of pupils.
Dr. Lucey, the school dentist started his work in January, and weekly clinics were held through the end of school. One hundred and seventy-nine pupils were treated.
Number of cleanings 151
Number of fillings 89
Number of extractions 69
This service is under the auspices of the Board of Health and is a great benefit to the school children. I think the parents value this service that is available.
The Chadwick Clinic under the supervision of the Bristol County Tuberculosis Hospital and the local Board of Health conducted their annual clinic here in October. The testing was done in sixth, ninth, and eleventh grades. In conjunc- tion with the new work this year, follow-up work was carried on from last year. Pupils under observation were X-rayed and new contact cases were brought in.
Instead of the usual Pre-School clinic, a request was made to the State Department of Health for a Well Child Con- ference. This conference will be given under the local Board of Health to towns where such a request is made. Physical
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ANNUAL REPORT
examinations are given to Pre-School children from six months to six years. This will be mentioned further in the report to the Board of Health under whose auspices it was held.
During December we were privileged to have through the Division of Child Hygiene from the State Department of Health an Audiometer for the testing of hearing. All grades from grade three up through the high school were tested. The audiometer is not used for diagnosis. Its purpose is for the separation of those children who are hard of hearing from the others in order that they who are a little handicapped might be helped in every possible way.
The annual physical examinations have been made by Dr. Miller and Dr. Souza in the primary, elementary and high schools. Very few serious defects were noted. The number of under-nourished children remained about the same. There is a decidedly large amount of postural defect among the pupils of all ages. We feel this defect should be stressed strongly in the Health Education Program.
Eight children had the opportunity to go to the Bristol County Health Camp. Our usual allotment is four, but through the generosity of two Dighton Citizens, four more children were greatly benefited. This generous bequest was thoroughly appreciated.
We would like to make the recommendation that a woman physician be appointed to make the physical examinations of the high school girls. Last year Dr. Fredericka Moore from the State Department did this work, but the State Department cannot be expected to provide this service in- definitely.
Respectfully submitted,
H. S. MILLER, M.D. C. M. SOUZA, M.D. L. P. HOARD, R.N. Health Staff.
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ANNUAL REPORT
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES
Office
Norman D. Bailey Jessie A. Perry
Supt. of Schools Secretary
No. Dighton Dighton
Junior-Senior High
Prin., Soc. Studies, Eng. Pleasant St., Dighton
Dean of Girls, Business 117 Garden St., Fall River
English, Drawing
Mathematics
31 Ingell St., Taunton Spring St., No. Dighton Riverside Ave., N. Dighton
Commercial Subjects Manual Arts, History Segreganset
Latin, Eng. Soc. Stud. Chase St., No. Dighton Gen'l Science, Phy Ed Andrews St., No. Dighton Household Arts, Phy. Ed. Pleasant St., Dighton
French, Soc. Studies
513 Bay St., Taunton Segreganset
History, Phy. Ed.
Porter St., Taunton
Segreganset Shore St., Taunton
Commercial Subjects Berkley St., Berkley
South School
Helen H. Lane Hope W. Hamilton Margaret Porter
Olive E. Howard Rose E. Borges Eunice E. Hambly
Grade III-Music
Grade II Grade I
Segreganset Pleasant St., Dighton 616 King Philip St., Fall River Segreganset Pleasant St., Dighton 947 High St., Fall River
North Elementary
Henry Pease, Jr.
Ethel Padelford Sara G. Hamilton
Grade V
Grade IV
312 Tinkham St., New Bedford Raynham, Mass. Segreganset
North Primary
Harrie S. Camp Irene F. Riley Helen Wheeler Alice B. Dobbyn
Principal, Grade I Grade II
Grade III-B Grade III
Taunton, Mass. Drift Rd., So. Westport Wheeler St., No. Dighton 289 Palmer St., N. Bedford
George R. Austin
Doris B. Hutchinson Terese F. David
Eleanor S. Smith Isabel G. Chisholm Glenn A. Burgmann Francis R. McLean Henry C. Levinson Agnes M. Hornby
Lucienne J. Galipeau *Helen L. Abrams *Carroll B. Foster ** Clara M. Standish ** Roger F. Hathaway *Francis E. Carr
Science, Math. Soc. Studies, Eng.
Science, Math.
Principal, Grade VI Grade V Grade IV
Principal, Grade VI
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ANNUAL REPORT
Segreganset
Katherine V. McAloon Special Class 34 Myrtle St., Taunton
Music Supervisor
Alice L. Sturtevant
886 Rogers St., Lowell
* New teachers employed during 1936.
** Roger Hathaway resigned November 10, 1936; Carroll B. Foster, Duxbury, Mass. has been appointed to the vacancy.
** Clara M. Standish resigned April 10, 1936; Helen Abrams, Milford, Mass. has been appointed to the vacancy.
Janitors
Charles M. Gilbert
North Schools South School
Spring St., No. Dighton
Manuel S. Gracia, Jr.
Main St., Dighton
Willis Barlow
Dighton High
Main St., Dighton
Walter Hamilton
Dighton. High Pleasant St., Dighton
Vocational Education
Agnes Murray Winifred Greer
Dressmaking
Pleasant St., Dighton
Dressmaking Main St., Dighton
Transportation Contractor
Carl P. Gorden, Jr.
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ANNUAL REPORT
SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR 1937
Elementary Schools
School opens Jan. 4, 1937
Closes Feb. 19, 1937
School opens Mar. 1, 1937
Closes April 16, 1937
School opens April 26, 1937
Closes June 11, 1937
School opens Sept. 13, 1937
Closes Dec. 23, 1937
School opens Jan. 3, 1938
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High School
School opens Jan. 4, 1937
Closes April 16, 1937
School opens April 26, 1937
Closes June 11, 1937
School opens Sept. 13, 1937
Closes Dec. 23, 1937
School opens Jan. 3, 1938
The Elementary Schools will close on the following holi- days: May 31, October 12, November 11, 25 and 26.
The High School will close for the following holidays: February 22, May 31, October 12, November 11, 25, and 26.
(
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TABLE SHOWING MEMBERSHIP BY SCHOOLS-JANUARY 1, 1937
School
1
2
3
4
5
6 7
8
9
10
11
12
13 Spec. Total
No. Dighton Primary
38
38
50
126
No. Dighton Elem.
45
38
37
120
Dighton Jr .- Sr. High
63
56
57
53
49
19
3
300
South
22
37.
27
29
30
29
174
Segreganset
11
11
Totals
60
75
77
74
68
66
63
56
57
53
49
19
3
11
731
Grand Total
731
Voc'l pupils (Berkley)
6
Regular Course (Berkley)
42
Taunton
1
52
Gosnold
2
Net Enrollment
680
ANNUAL REPORT
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ANNUAL REPORT
COMPARISON OF COSTS
It will interest the citizens of the town to study the follow- ing table of comparisons between the actual costs of schools to the town under the present set-up under which we are maintaining our own high school and the cost as it would have appeared if we had continued to send our high school pupils out of town.
Present Set-up
Cost if former arrangements were continued
General Control
$3,538.05
$2,909.00
Teachers' Salaries
34,613.00
26,400.00
Books and Supplies
3,357.60
2,635.00
Janitors' Salaries
4,940.00
2,800.00
Fuel
2,784.00
2,100.00
Tuition
12,600.00
Contingent
2,410.69
1,300.00
Transportation
6,427.55
9,000.00
Repairs
1,400.00
1,200.00
Health
1,520.00
1,400.00
Library
500.00
Expenses of Staff
39.00
25.00
New Equipment
2,033.32
1,000.00
Voc. Classes-Day
50.00
Voc. Classes-Evening
365.00
365.00
Rent
250.00
$63,978.21
$63,384.00
Reimbursements
15,530.58
6,332.00
NET COST TO TOWN
$48,447.63
$57,052.00
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