USA > Massachusetts > Plymouth County > West Bridgewater > Town annual reports of the selectmen, overseers of the poor, town clerk, and school committee of West Bridgewater for the year ending 1935-1939 > Part 46
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No one teacher however, can cover all these sides of education, and no school can educate in all these direc- tions unless it has the fullest and most active coopera- tion from every live force in the commu- Community Cooperation nity. Good health is more than text-book knowledge: it can be secured only by the working together of doctors, nurses, par- ents and other citizens, all combining to promote sani- tation, head off epidemics, to teach hygienic living, to warn and safeguard against every abuse of the great gift of life.
Efficiency and skill, high standard of morality in private and public life, acquisition of information and knowledge, social responsibility, love of beauty in all forms of creative art, as well as beauty Community Objectives and strength of human character, these are rightly community objectives that every parent and citizen should look for in the education of community youth.
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This is the basic reason for our attempts at an enrich- ment and expansion of the school program; this is the origin of the various organizations that bring earnest people together in a serious endeavor to help the public schools; this is the real foundation for the intelligent interest in vocational guidance, social and ethical edu- cation and other new forces-or old forces revived in modern teaching.
With these objectives constantly in mind, there can never be any doubt in the minds of our teachers as to their ultimate aims, and these they are striving to at- tain by patient conscientious work in the classroom, and by keeping themselves abreast of the times by pro- fessional reading, study and educational courses. Their ยท loyalty and cooperative spirit are outstanding charac- teristics of our common educational tasks, and I take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the sustained assistance they have given me at all times.
One change only has taken place in our teaching force, when Miss Rose MacDonald retired in June, 1939, to be succeeded as principal of the Center School by Mr. Benjamin Thomas. The latter has taken up his new duties with the energy and skill that promises a con- tinuance of the high level of scholastic accomplishment this school has enjoyed so long under the capable direc- tion of an outstanding and beloved educator.
In a great cathedral in London a visitor is almost overpowered with the number and variety of memorials he can see in every direction, all dedi- A Plain Memorial cated to the great of many centuries of English national life and growth. He will meet much difficulty in finding one me- morial he seeks-that of the builder of the vast cathe- dral which contains the carved and chiseled emblems of others' great accomplishments beautifully traced in wood or stone. Eventually he will discover, in a se- cluded little side chapel, hardly discernible in the "dim religious light," a plain unadorned tablet of bronze,
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upon which are inscribed in Latin these words. "If you seek my monument look about you." These simple words tell the story of Sir Christopher Wren, famous architect and designer of temples of undying majesty and inspiration.
In our community we have long had just such an ap- posite memorial in the life and influence of Miss Mac- Donald who has given of her strength, A Living Memorial enthusiasm and force of personality for fifty years to the state of Massachusetts, forty-nine of these years in the service of West Bridgewater. With great aptness the lines on that simple tablet in Westminster Abbey could be ap- plied to her work and influence on her times.
In the half century of her untiring energy, alert in- telligence, and persuasive teaching, exercised upon the lives of thousands of boys and girls in her classroom and beyond its borders, through the years, she has worked for mental, physical and moral growth of her pupils. Her own direct personality has helped many a student to find his way through the confusions of adolescent thinking to subsequent fine manhood and high quality of citizenship.
It is not often given to teachers to see the full reward of their work in their own lifetime. Somewhere, some- time, there will be a completion, beyond their place and time; they can only hope to approximate the final man or woman they see in the form of boy or girl of their classroom. Miss MacDonald has come closer to realiz- ing more completions from youth to later years of re- sponsible citizenship than is ordinarily given to one worker in the great field of human education.
The following lines by Katherine Shaffner paint a picture that those who have worked with Miss Mac- Donald can readily recognize :
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A Credo
I too shall daily dare to teach Not only texts, and ever changing rules, But those entrusted to my skill, To mold their fresh and plastic minds; To shape their thoughts for good,-and still Be mindful that these things abide Above all else-truth, tolerance, and love, Whatever else throughout the years betide!
In conclusion may I again thank the teaching body and the School Committee for the invaluable help each group has given me, a help that is keenly appreciated in our great task of public school education.
Respectfully submitted,
ERNEST W. ROBINSON, Superintendent of Schools.
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REPORT OF THE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Mr. Ernest W. Robinson Superintendent of Schools West Bridgewater, Mass.
Dear Sir:
I have the honor to submit my annual report as prin- cipal of the Howard High School.
Since the turn of the century, all phases of American life have undergone a pronounced transition. Emerging from an agricultural to an industrial economy, this transition, with its inescapable repercussions, has had special influence on our secondary schools. This school has been evolving from a selective institution, primarily engaged in preparing limited numbers of boys and girls for careers in the professions to a school designed to meet the educational needs of all youth. With this evolution has come the inevitable problems which ac- company the development of an appropriate educa- tional program for all children. The raising of the compulsory school age and the scarcity of jobs for youth combine to contribute their influence in rendering these problems each year more acute. As enrollments have increased, the percentage of those students finding ad- justment to the traditional curriculum impossible has become larger and larger. Butterfield, in his challeng- ing article, "The New Fifty Per Cent," estimates this group of maladjusted pupils to be at least 50%. The presence of this group in our schools is evidenced by irregular attendance, lack of interest, low achievement, failure, discipline programs, and to a lesser degree than formerly, withdrawal from school.
The students of most any comprehensive high school may be classified in three groups: 1. A group academi- cally minded whose future work will deal chiefly with books and laboratories; 2. A group who will utilize
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and apply the knowledge of others; and 3. A group who will learn by practical experience and for whom verbal methods of learning will play but a small part.
An examination of our own high school clearly re- veals the presence of this third group-the education- ally neglected 50 per cent. Outright failures, low levels of accomplishments, a variety of discipline problems, apparent lack of enthusiasm and interest, and many withdrawals from school all give strong evidence of serious maladjustments. What Howard High School should do to serve this group educationally is a problem faced by all comprehensive secondary schools.
The extensive revision of our curriculum and courses of study, the extension of activities in the home eco- nomics, manual arts, and consumers education fields are movements in the right direction. The further re- valuation and revision of both the materials and meth- ods of instruction appear to be not only likely but absolutely necessary. The expansion of our manual training department to include general shop work, the development of a physical education program serving the entire town, the extension of the guidance program to serve the educational, vocational, social, and personal needs of all students, and a careful study of the educa- tionally neglected pupils seems inevitable if we are to move forward in our educational program.
There is no positive evidence that this year's maxi- mum high school enrollment of 198 will not be greatly exceeded for years to come. Contrary to a decrease in elementary school attendance the high school member- ship has steadily increased. With the apparent greater holding power of the school, and the inescapable in- fluence of social and economic pressure, there are strong indications on every hand of an enrollment well over 200. Should this increase occur, the problems mentioned previously will become more acute, and the questions relative to greater expenditures and addi- tions to our teaching staff will be brought into bold relief.
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An important consideration in the educational pro- gram for youth is that of leisure time. Through its vari- ous activities the school attempts to set up conditions encouraging the development of an appreciation of good literature, amusements, recreation, and music. In regard to this last named activity it is disappointing that more parents do not urge their children to study music. Lack of interest renders idle three of the school's in- struments which may be loaned to deserving students.
The school's orchestra is again functioning under the able leadership of Mrs. Donald Hayward who works on a purely volunteer basis. If this phase of the school's program is educationally worthwhile, it should receive financial support. It cannot be expected that this service will continue without cost.
The work in music, home economics, and manual arts is effectively covered in separate reports by the heads of these departments. For detailed accounts of various other activities of the school reference may be made to my previous reports.
In conclusion, may I thank you, the school committee, the Howard Trustees, the teachers, the parents, and other friends of the school for the valuable support given me.
Respectfully submitted,
NILS G. LINDELL, Principal.
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL PHYSICIAN
To the Superintendent of Schools and the School Com- mittee :
Shortly following the beginning of the present school term examinations were made of the student body. As in the past, the greatest number of defects were found in the mouth and throat. About one-half of the students at the present time have defective teeth and slightly less have diseased tonsils. However, these con- ditions within the past three years have improved noticeably. It would seem, despite the trying times through which we are passing, that parents are doing their utmost to take care of conditions which are brought to their attention.
We have seen no epidemic of contagion, nor have we seen any serious sickness in the school children this year. There are several children with heart murmurs, who are being watched from year to year for any progress of their condition. The two cases of epilepsy in the school are well under control and have caused no difficulty in the past year. We have found no cases of tuberculosis despite numerous check-ups with X-rays at the Plymouth County Hospital.
I wish to thank Mrs. Lillian Hewitt, school nurse, Mr. Ernest Robinson, school superintendent, and the School Committee, for their kind and willing assistance.
Respectfully submitted,
JOSEPH BERKOWITZ, M.D. School Physician.
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL NURSE
To Mr. Ernest W. Robinson Superintendent of Schools West Bridgewater, Mass.
I herewith present my annual report.
School Physician, Dr. Berkowitz, completed the phy- sical examinations on children in schools throughout the town. Tonsil and adenoid defects were most numer- ous, carious teeth were next. Other defects found were malnutrition, heart and glands. One child had a mal- formation of the spine and was referred to and attended the clinic for crippled children. Consideration of an operation is pending.
Any skin eruptions were carefully checked by teach- ers and reported; advice was given and followed up in the homes by the nurse, to secure proper treatment. Several accidents occurred resulting in fractures. These injuries were X-rayed at the expense of the parents, and after treatment pupils returned to normal.
The Tubercular Clinic was held in December. Four were X-rayed, two discharged, 2 referred for a physical examination,-one of these discharged. Two others were taken to Plymouth County Hospital for X-rays and physicals. We now have 5 follow up cases in this group. In 1940 the clinic will be centered around students at- tending High School, except those who are contacts or recommended by a physician. Two children attended Health Camp for 8 weeks each. Knowing what an in- sidious disease this is, what a relief when X-ray returns are negative!
Fifteen children had tonsils and adenoids removed through cooperation of parents and hospitals. Six were furnished with glasses by parents and Junior Red Cross. The Plymouth County Health Association loaned their
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Audiometer and ears were tested in grades 5, 9 and 12. Five were found with defective hearing, were followed up and treatment received where there was a necessity, and adenoids removed.
All pupils were weighed and measured twice during the year.
S.P.C.C. was called in on two cases. Five home visits were made; in one instance, I am sorry to relate, the child was committed to an institution.
Retarded and problem pupils were referred to nurse for psychometric examinations and again referred to clinics for help. A total of thirteen were examined. Three were referred to the new Habit Clinic for chil- dren. Although we have no special class, this examina- tion helps in behavior problems. The Manual Arts class is a wonderful outlet for those who can learn to do things with their hands, so necessary for comfortable living. There is a demand to include younger children that all their time will not be a loss. Learning to get along with others is so important in character building as an aid in finding for themselves contentment.
The Diphtheria clinic was held at the Town Hall in May, under the direction of Dr. Berkowitz working for the Board of Health. Three inoculations were given a week apart, 87 children were treated. Ten did not com- plete their third treatment because of colds or other excuses.
One bad case of malnutrition was discovered in time to prevent a chronic eye disease.
One child was re-admitted to Canton Hospital School.
Eight visits were made to Brockton Hospital with children and five other children were taken to the eye and ear specialist for diagnosis.
Routine examinations have been made at various times,-problems were many but not serious. Children on the whole are well cared for and in good condition.
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Measles, whooping cough, and chicken pox had their run.
Caring for the teeth is a big problem. A dental clinic is the only solution and a big responsibility. Only a small percentage can afford care at the family dentist. I have previously stated that it takes five years before you can see results. Pediatricians tell us that if teeth are cared for it will greatly reduce the number of in- fected tonsils.
Orthodontia, or corrections of irregularities of the teeth, due to improper care of baby teeth, careless habits and adenoids, is expensive. Three families where children need this care were visited. X-ray and treat- ment were secured for one very bad dental case.
I take this opportunity to thank teachers and parents for their cooperation.
Respectfully submitted,
LILLIAN M. HEWITT, School Nurse.
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REPORT OF MUSIC SUPERVISOR
Superintendent Ernest W. Robinson West Bridgewater, Mass.
Dear Mr. Robinson :
Once again it is my pleasant duty to submit to you an annual report on the work done in music in the public schools of West Bridgewater this past year.
Grades 1 and 2 learned a large number of rote songs some of which were purely art songs taught for their melodic beauty; others for their time precision, for rhythmic action; and still others for their future basic development. Scale singing, tonic chord skips, simple board notation for reading and writing comprised very largely the technical instruction for these two grades.
Again, in all grades, special emphasis was placed on tone quality and facility in reading by syllable. A real conscious effort was made to train the child in recog- nizing related groups of notes and so speed up the work in visualization. Choir leadership and individual sing- ing are always encouraged.
Responsive singing by individuals, groups and grades has given much pleasure and variety and stimulated the interest and enthusiasm. Some songs lend themselves very delightfully to this type of choral activity.
The adolescent boy voice in its period of change causes much embarrassment, uncertainty and lack of confidence. The range is so very limited in some cases that the boy feels helpless and hopeless. However, this condition resolves itself into more or less permanency with very satisfactory results in the high school chorus.
In June the girls only of the high school chorus sang at graduation. This group was selective and included only a part of the entire chorus. The choral member-
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ship grows each year, I am happy to say, but it will be necessary to limit the number participating in June be- cause of the size of the hall.
It is with a feeling of deep satisfaction that I note the growing interest and pleasure the pupils find in their music. Music is Beauty, and Beauty, Love and Wisdom help us to live. Aside from its cultural values, school music is one of the best instruments in training for good citizenship.
Yours truly,
LOIS J. SNOW, Music Supervisor.
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REPORT OF MANUAL TRAINING INSTRUCTOR
Mr. Ernest W. Robinson Superintendent of Schools West Bridgewater, Mass.
Dear Sir:
As Manual Arts Instructor, I take great pleasure in presenting a summary and analysis of the work so far accomplished in the two and one-half years of these new courses.
During the school year 1937-1938, manual training was the only subject offered as the course was given only two days per week. Twenty-nine pupils from the high school elected this course and twenty from the eighth grade.
At the beginning of the school year 1938-1939, an- other day was added and another subject (mechanical drawing) was offered. During that year, twenty-six high school pupils and thirty-eight grade pupils elected Manual training, and twenty-six high school pupils elected mechanical drawing.
At the present time there are thirty-four pupils in the high school classes, and forty-four pupils from the eighth grades electing manual training.
In the two mechanical drawing classes of high school pupils there are thirty-three pupils.
The following is a table which will show the growth of these courses since their start:
MANUAL TRAINING CLASSES
School Year 1937-1938 49 pupils
School Year 1938-1939 56 pupils
School Year 1939-1940 78 pupils
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MECHANICAL DRAWING CLASSES
School Year 1938-1939
26 pupils
School Year 1939-1940
33 pupils
COMBINED CLASSES
School Year 1937-1938 49 pupils
School Year 1938-1939 82 pupils
School Year 1939-1940
111 pupils
In view of this growth, it is apparent that more equip- ment is necessary and justified, especially in the man- ual training room. The room was originally equipped for twelve pupil classes as to working area and tools. It has been rearranged and tools added to bring the capacity to fourteen pupils as far as equipment is con- cerned; but there is now an acute need of more floor space as there is one class of nineteen, one of sixteen, one of fifteen, and two of fourteen pupils each.
An endeavor is now being made to add to the manual training room by utilizing some of the basement.
In the first year manual training classes, the pupils are taught the names and uses of all the tools, and then by using these tools in the construction of some worth while project, become proficient in their use and care.
In the second year course, the pupils are left to their own resources to a greater extent, and are given in- struction as a group when a new problem arises.
The third year course allows them to select and con- struct projects almost entirely independently. As in any mechanical type of work, new problems are bound to arise for which the pupils are to submit their own so- lutions to the instructor. If the solution is a reasonable and sound one, they proceed on that basis; if not, they are shown the correct solution.
The aim of these courses is not to make craftsmen of any, but to give all the opportunity to show their in- genuity and to develop in them the ability to reason
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out a problem and to use their hands and mind in co- ordination.
If a pupil is inclined to any mechanical type of en- deavor, he can learn to do these things and then put his hand to any other type of mechanical work.
In the first year mechanical drawing course, there are a set number of plates which must be drawn sat- isfactorily.
The second year course has no set series of plates but each pupil chooses, or has chosen for him, a series of small articles for which he is to make the working drawings.
This allows a great deal of individual attention, and those who are more adept are given more complicated problems.
Those who may be a little slower and those who are particularly interested in these subjects are given an opportunity to do extra work by making use of after- noon sessions.
In concluding this report, I wish to thank the school committee, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Lindell, and any others who have aided in making these courses available to the pupils of the schools of West Bridgewater.
Respectfully submitted,
ROBERT C. MORTON
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REPORT OF HOUSEHOLD ARTS SUPERVISOR
During the past year the Home Economics course has had one important change which I feel definitely for the better. Instead of taking time out of our labora- tory periods, which are none' too long as it is, for reci- tation and notebook work, we now have one period a week in foods and one in clothing which is devoted to this type of work. I have always felt that there was a great need for such a period, since it gives the girl who really wants to learn and get ahead a chance to better understand what she has done and is doing in the laboratory periods.
Workbooks are being used during these periods and are divided into units. The material in them require at least two years to complete depending, of course, upon the amount of time necessary to spend on each unit. The completed books are very practical and can be used by the girls to get valuable information for many years to come since only the most important and neces- sary points concerning foods and clothing are stressed.
In foods, not only is the proper preparations and ser- ving of foods emphasized, but also efficient housekeep- ing. Most of the girls take pride in the laboratory, which is indeed a fine one, and earnestly try to keep it neat and orderly.
Not only is clothing construction considered impor- tant but also the study of fabrics and good taste and economy of clothing. A girl may make a beautiful dress as far as construction is concerned, but if the design is not suitable to the material or the design or material not appropriate for the individual, the whole effect will be lost. To help the girl from mak- ing such a mistake, the study of fabrics and good taste and economy of clothing is stressed as well as clothing construction.
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The Home Management course is the same as for- merly except that certain topics are taken up more in details since the girls are older and understand things much better.
I sincerely hope that the girls really appreciate the opportunity they are getting in being able to take a course in Home Economics. I have earnestly tried to make the courses as interesting and informative as is possible in the time allotted and I hope each girl will try to remember as much as she can of what she has learned, for no matter what she may do in life her home economics training will always be of inestimable value to her.
Respectfully submitted,
RUTH ERNST, Home Economics Instructor.
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COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES
HOWARD HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 1939
Howard Hall, June twenty-one at eight o'clock Motto -"No Labor, No Victory."
CLASS OFFICERS
President Arthur Miles
Vice President
Mary Crowley
Secretary
Florence Woodward
Treasurer
Janet Hargreaves
Class Colors
Blue and White
Class Flower
White Rose
PROGRAM
1. March-"Festival March" Van Weher
Howard High School Orchestra
2. Prayer Reverend Charles Beals
3. Music-"Serenade" from the Student Prince
Romberg
Girls' Chorus
Accompanied by :
Violin William Curtis
Cello Mrs. Carl Carlson
Piano Alice Dean
4. Address-The Secret Stairway
Dr. Phillips Endecott Osgood
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5. Presentation of Class Gift Arthur Miles President of Class of 1939
6. Acceptance for School Chester Rossi President of Class of 1940
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