USA > Massachusetts > Middlesex County > Newton > Town of Newton annual report 1869-1870 > Part 26
Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20 | Part 21 | Part 22 | Part 23 | Part 24 | Part 25 | Part 26 | Part 27
Something might be done, we think, to increase the average attendance in our schools. This is now about
2
10
eighty-two per cent. The importance of this has been suf- ficiently discussed. How to bring it about is a subject to which we wish that the attention of both teachers and par- ents might be directed. We wish that a generous rivalry might be excited between the scholars in each school, and among the different schools, in this respect. No. 3 is the banner district this year.
The town has lost the services of a faithful officer in the resignation of Rev. Mr. Tucker from this board. We who were associated with him in this work desire to bear our testimony to his uniformly courteous but decided charac- ter as shown in his relations with us, to his gentleness and aptness with the children, and to his discrimination and justice toward teachers. And we sympathize with him deeply in his illness, of which we have been pained to hear.
We wish finally to reiterate the old but important ad- vice to the parents, to give the teachers their best sympa- thies and wise co-operation. We do not mean blindly whipping a boy just because he has suffered the same in- fliction at school, which is certainly the surest way to make him hold his tongue about every thing that has hap- pened there. . But, on the other hand, do not give the child your sympathy in such or similar cases, unless you are very sure that he deserves it. Neither do we mean helping the child over all his difficulties in lessons, as it is often the best drill that he can have to conquer these difficulties himself. But show him that you are interested in his studies and progress ; inquire wisely into school-matters ; visit the schools ; make yourselves acquainted with the teachers ; and so help the children and teachers in the im- portant work that they are doing.
An evening school has been established in District . No. 5, with good results. And the committee has taken measures to comply with the law in regard to the estab- lishment of schools for instruction in industrial or me- chanical drawing. For the Committee,
EZSA P. GOULD, Secretary.
11
HIGH SCHOOL.
Early in the year, Miss Breck was obliged by ill health to suspend her labors. We are gratified by her recovery from a long and serious illness, and by the prospect of again enjoying her invaluable services in this school. In supply- ing her place, it seemed best to appoint a sub-master, of whom there was an increasing need. The school is very large ; and the details of discipline and management, added to the burden of instruction, weighed heavily upon the principal. Mr. Ezra W. Sampson of St. Louis, a teacher of experience and culture, was appointed ; and his success has justified our expectations. He is gradually assuming, be- sides the care of his classes, those duties of the principal of which the latter ought to be relieved, but which his con- scientiousness and love of hard work render him slow to impose upon others.
The extension of the school year has postponed the grad- uation of the senior class and the annual examination. But we may report the school to be in excellent condition. The year has been a prosperous and happy one. The com- mittee commend the school without qualification. The teachers are earnest, amiable, skilful, and faithful; their personal relations with the pupils almost affectionate, with each other helpful and harmonious.
We may well be proud of our high school. In the com- prehensiveness of its course of instruction, the intelligence of its pupils, the skill of its instructors, and every positive advantage for learning, it is all we have a right to expect, while we may hope for more. Of its moral advantages, we see the results in a degree of refinement, courtesy, grace, and mannerly conduct, that can only be maintained among pupils of an age at which petulance, impatience, and discouragement are likely to prevail by the positive ex- ample and influence of the teachers. We are bound to say that a large share of our satisfaction with the school is due to the refined moral influence of the gentlemanly principal and his accomplished assistants.
.
12
To particularize a certain object of instruction, we find that the young men who enter college from this school pass the examinations with perfect ease, and take high rank in the college classes. And here we may say, that we think many young men of fine intellectual powers, who long for a liberal education, are discouraged from the attempt by their inability to meet the supposed expense. But we can assure such, that if encouraged by the judgment of their instructors, they may, by consulting with the principal, find means to pursue their studies, without injury to their pride or independence.
JOHN B. GOODRICH. For the Committee.
GRAMMAR DEPARTMENT.
Another year has passed since your committee presented a report of the condition of the schools under their particu- lar supervision ; and again it becomes our duty to record our judgment of a year's work.
This being our second year as superintending committee of this grade of schools, we could avail ourselves of our past experience, and enter more readily and intelligently upon our work.
In a town situated as ours is, some measures seemed to the committee necessary to bring about a uniformity in the work of the schools, and also to improve the methods in all by combining the excellences of each.
We therefore, early in the year, called a meeting of the masters, and, after a full and free interchange of views, laid out the work for the term in the several studies. This ar- rangement met the cheerful and hearty approbation of the teachers ; and the impetus given has been of the most marked and satisfactory character. Each teacher now has clearly before him or her the work expected to be accomplished in the several branches pursued, and we are satisfied that more and better work has been done than ever before in
13
the same time. A generous emulation at once was the consequence ; every teacher seeming determined, if not to distance others, certainly to improve upon the past. There grew up, too, a community of feeling and interest in each other's work, which has added greatly to the general suc- cess. Such plan has been marked out for each term ; and we are satisfied no measure could have been adopted that would have brought about so great a uniformity and excel- lence in the schools.
At the close of the last year, having carefully studied the educational facilities and demands of the age, we recom- mended to the board the introduction of other and higher studies for the first classes ; thus enlarging the sphere of use- fulness of these schools, from which a majority of our pupils go out into the active duties of life. This recommendation met with the hearty concurrence of the committee ; and the studies of the history of the United States, and physical geography, were introduced at the beginning of the year. This measure, while it was most gratifying to the teachers, proved an incentive to the pupils, who entered upon the year's work with renewed zeal and interest, feeling that they were to have something to do other than to review those branches upon which they had been drilled from the day of their entrance into the primary school. These studies will be completed during the year, while no falling- away has been noticed in the common English branches ; and we feel sure that we have the entire good-will and thanks of the pupils for enabling them to enjoy a taste of the higher branches, heretofore confined to the high school.
Drawing has also been elevated into a regular study ; and a set of Bail's Drawing Charts has been put into every district, while a systematic course has been marked out. Thus far, we are entirely satisfied with the progress made ; and we trust, in the future, to be able to carry the pupils still farther on in the education of the " eye and hand," till our grammar schools answer the demands of the statute regarding " mechanical or industrial drawing."
14
We are also of the opinion that no pupil should graduate from the grammar school without some knowledge of single entry book-keeping; and we are satisfied room can be made for this study by pursuing more true and econo- mical methods of teaching arithmetic, geography, and grammar, upon which so much valuable time is spent.
There has been a marked improvement in writing in most of our schools; while the study of language lias re- ceived regular and systematic attention by means of writ- ten exercises in the various studies. We can hardly over- estimate the importance of such exercises in developing a power of expression, which will be in use every day through life; while technical grammar, after leaving school, will be, with most, one of the " lost arts."
Without particularizing, or instituting comparisons, we can say that we have a faithful, hardworking corps of teachers, and yet the results obtained are variable ; and in some cases, among our fifteen teachers, we feel that the best interests of the pupils would indicate a change of teachers; and when suchi is the case, however unpleasant the duty, the committee should not shrink from action.
Our schools are conducted with but little corporal pun- ·ishment, some teachers never resorting to what may be called the lowest motive power, that of fear ; and yet we are not sure, but, in some cases, language is used by teach- ers as cutting and as unkind as the rule or rattan. The committee desire to express their entire disapprobation of the use of all unkind or ungentlemanly language by our teachers : they should be, in their intercourse with their pupils, constant incentives to purity of word and thought, never willingly wounding the feelings of the most sensitive girl or boy. Thus may they not only secure the affection of their pupils, but so impress themselves upon the mind and heart as to remain a talisman for good through life.
Spelling has received special attention ; and much im- provement has been made in all the classes, while in some cases, we fear, undue attention has been given, to the
15
neglect of other and more important studies. To be a per- fect speller is not the " chief end of man," though good spell- ing is of the first importance. This, being largely a matter of the memory, should be acquired chiefly in the lower grades, though careful attention should be given it through the entire school age. The results obtained at our recent examinations have been very gratifying.
To the reading-exercise we would advise yet greater care and attention on the part of some teachers. A careful daily drill in vocal gymnastics has a wonderful effect in developing the power of utterance. We do not admire in our schools the elocutionary or declamatory style of read- ing, hence would not advise it except as a vocal exercise, for which it is very valuable, but rather that agreeable home style, so pleasing in the family circle.
This, we well know, is a much more difficult acquisition, and less showy ; but, when once secured, its value will be an ample recompense. We have noticed that many of the schoolrooms are hung with beautiful chromos and engrav- ings, generally the contribution of the pupils. This action on the part of the pupils we would heartily commend, and we cannot too highly estimate the genial, silent influence the works of art exert on the mind and heart : though imper- ceptible, it is none the less sure and elevating. We also desire to express our thanks for a very valuable and beau- tiful set of Charts of Natural History, presented to the grammar school in District No. 5 by S. R. Urbino, Esq .; and also the generous act of Christopher Needham in frescoing the walls of the hall in the same school, -action in both cases worthy of a generous rivalry. Many books of refer- ence have also been presented by friends of the schools, thus forming a nucleus of what may, we trust, become valuable libraries in each of the grammar schools.
In conclusion, we would express our general satisfaction with the work accomplished during the year; while it will be our earnest endeavor, by counsel and advice, to urge to yet higher attainments and greater excellence, till our
16
grammar schools, the "People's Colleges," shall graduate scholars thoroughly fitted to assume the duties and re- sponsibilities of citizens of our enlightened Commonwealth ; and to this end we bespeak from parent and citizen a cheerful, intelligent, and active co-operation.
GEO. E. ALLEN, . For the Committee.
INTERMEDIATE SCHOOLS.
Sixteen teachers are employed in this department, - a force laborious enough to merit the sympathy, and success- ful enough, in the main, to win the approval, of the citizens.
Of course, where the object is so comprehensive, the materials so various, and the methods so far undefined, uni- form results cannot be attained in all the schools. We must work by an open pattern, leaving much to the discretion of the teachers. Every school will have a spirit of its own.
Mere personal contact with a teacher of the right mind and heart is of itself an educating power of great value. Its influence, like that of the sunlight, is silent, but con- stant. The whole school feels it all the time without know- ing it. It is bracing, like a good atmosphere. Those " vir- tues which are the ornament of human society and the basis on which a republican constitution is founded," if they are to appear in the pupils, must first adorn the lives of the teachers.
And, with such a teacher, a school will make better prog- ress in the regular studies of the course.
An irritable teacher, who does not kindly adapt herself to the peculiarities of her pupils, will find her infirmity re- flected back upon her from the pupils. The temper of the school, and her own temper, will hinder instruction. The moody feeling of the schoolroom will be carried home and given to the parents. Such teachers, we are glad to be- lieve, are not to be found in our intermediate schools.
On the contrary, we know that many of them are of
17
marked excellence in these general qualifications. Their personal influence is good. They are safe examples of cor- rect speaking, attractive ways, and refined manners. A sound moral principle underlies the management of their schools. They do not counteract the nurture of the best homes. Instead of rough usage, there is much of wise parental thoughtfulness on their part. They succeed in making the schoolroom pleasant to the eyes and a place to be desired to make one wise.
Such teachers we desire heartily to encourage, and to bespeak for them the friendly aid of parents. Whatever is done in social ways to promote good feeling between teachers and scholars will have its reward in the increased happiness and proficiency of the children. Parents may wisely open to the teachers of their children such opportu- nities of culture as their own homes afford ; and no teach- er can safely assume that her whole duty is done if she neglect to make herself acquainted with her pupils at home : so far from being an added burden, this would often prove a source of refreshment to a discouraged teacher.
It is gratifying to notice the attempts of the teachers to adorn their rooms with pictures and plants. These are useful as well as pleasing. The listless eye looks up and takes in a lesson of beauty in a twinkling; and the mind grapples afresh with the printed task. Music and gymnas- tics have such a use, not only as diversion, but also as aids to other things. A little tact will turn them to good ac- count in discipline and instruction.
In general order and neatness, the schools are in excel- lent condition. Little matters of courtesy, propriety, and accuracy, fall within the teacher's province, but, in the mul- titude of regular duties, are liable to be overlooked.
In the prescribed studies of the course, the schools have done well. The committee notice, however, a lack of energy and devotion on the part of a few of the teachers. Their schools suffer from it. For example, all do well in the matter of reading; but the excellence of one or two in
3
18
this branch shows what others might do. With some, there is an impatience of drill in the elementary sounds, and a want of definite aim in the reading-exercise. But we have teachers who bring to this work a purpose and a zeal which the classes quickly catch ; and the reading in those schools is spirited to a high degree, distinct, intelligent, and effect- ive. Such a difference exists in respect of arithmetic and the other studies.
We cannot all do every thing. It is too much to expect the same teacher to excel in all points. Classes are not alike from year to year. Now and then, one is remarkably quick and uniform. But teachers may gain much by visit- ing other schools, observing them carefully, with a view to profit by all they see and hear. Special meetings of the teachers in this department have been begun by the com- mittee, from which good results are expected. All but two of the districts have changed teachers within the year. Some of those who have left us were superior teachers. We were sorry to have them go. Years hence, they will have place in the grateful recollections of honored men and women whose characters they helped to form. Such a prospect is cheering to those who remain in the service. The dulness of the teacher's work is relieved by the thought, that, if faithfully done, the good results of it last for a lifetime. This grand recompense will remain after all present compensations are forgotten.
We commend to the teachers the inspiration of the best motives.
The town is prompt to appreciate the services of a good teacher.
CALVIN CUTLER,
For the Sub-Committee.
19
PRIMARY SCHOOLS.
This committee has been changed during the year by the resignation of Rev. Mr. Tucker. Gen. Underwood, who was elected to fill this vacancy, was assigned to the primary sub-committee ; and Mr. E. P. Gould took Mr. Tucker's place as chairman of the same. Of course, we do not feel so well acquainted with the schools as if we had occupied our posi- tions during the whole year ; and, as both these gentlemen came upon the school committee this year, we are not pre- pared to report fully on the comparative condition of the schools at this time.
There has been no change in the number of these schools, except that, in District No. 8, the primary school of last year has become an intermediate school.
In. District No. 1, the completion of the new school-house has perceptibly improved the condition of the primary schools, which were before confined in very narrow and un- wholesome quarters, and most uncomfortably seated. The committee can speak only with commendation of the efforts of the teachers and scholars to preserve both order and cheerfulness in such trying circumstances, and congratulate them on the change.
The committee would have been better pleased, however, to have them in a building separate from the other schools, and free from the annoyances and possible danger of the companionship with older children. And we think that the lower rooms in the old school-house might have been used advantageously for this purpose. One inconvenience re- sulting from this placing of all the schools in the same building is the disturbance of other schools by the marching, and other gymnastic exercises, in the primary schools. They ought to have these things, and also more singing than other schools; and the others ought not to be inter- rupted by them. These two oughts make a third, that they be in separate buildings. In other villages, this has been done generally ; and the economy of the plan would certainly recommend it.
20
Of the corps of seventeen teachers in these schools, four have resigned, and one has been transferred to another school of the same grade. Another has been absent on leave for some time. These were among our best teachers ; and though their places have been well filled, so far as we can judge, still the change is not desirable.
The length of this school year has made it unnecessary and impossible to confine the course of study within the limits marked out ; and so the teachers have acted on what they consider rightly to be the meaning of these regula- tions, - that they assign limits to which they must attain, and beyond which they may go as far as is consistent with thoroughness and with the health of the pupil. Both rapid progress and these limitations of progress are necessary.
The citizens have reason, we think, to congratulate them- selves on the general excellence of the work done in this department. The teachers are mostly both faithful and skilful ; and, what is of equal importance, the children are of more than average mental gift and intelligence. Thus the unusually bright scholar is not retarded nor depressed by association with those very much inferior ; and those not so gifted have all necessary stimulus; and, in short, the general tone of the school is elevated by this very large infusion of the best element. And so, in two years at most, starting from the very beginnings of knowledge, they ac- quire very respectable facility in the reading and spelling of simple words, an accurate knowledge of the four tables in arithmetic, more or less skill in printing, and sometimes in writing, and some knowledge of the elements of geography. Often, too, they learn to read not only with ease, but also with expression, and get quite correct ideas of the art of reading well ; nor is their knowledge of the tables mere par- rottry, but they learn to apply it in examples.
In at least one of the schools, instruction in writing has been substituted for printing; and we think that the good results recommend the change to the general attention of the teachers. The slight strangeness of the letters is more
21
than compensated by the comparative ease with which they are formed ; and so the necessity of printing as a stepping- stone to writing seems removed.
We feel quite generally satisfied, too, with the disci- pline of these schools. The order is good, and yet the scholars are not ruled with the strictness which would be proper in older schools, but is entirely out of place with them. Pains is taken to interest and even to amuse them ; and so the schoolroom is made a pleasant place even to the very young child.
We think, then, that the teachers who are laying the foundations are doing an important work with the care and skill which it needs.
EZRA P. GOULD, For the Sub-Committee.
MUSIC.
An endeavor has been made the past year to increase the efficiency of the instruction in music in our schools, especially in the grammar department, where the teach- ing combines the science and the art more than in the lower grades.
Although no definite examination as to results has been made by the sub-committee, owing to the extension of the school year, yet casual observation has shown us that Mr. Whiting keeps up the interest in those departments under his instruction. By some of our teachers, questions have been prepared for written examinations on music, which show the individual attainments in the science.
The advantages for musical instruction are not equal in all of our schools; two or three of our school-buildings having no hall for a general assembling. This will be remedied in time. During the present winter, a partition has been removed in the upper story of the Auburndale school-house, which supplies the need there. The school- house at Newtonville needs to be so arranged. This would
22
necessitate the construction of an additional house for the primary schools.
The increasing demand for more musical instruction is shown by a movement made in our legislature, to make that a required study.
Any one doubting the utility of music as a part of an education has only to know the difference in the character of our lower grades of schools, where music is now taught, the cheerfulness, and general behavior, and what it was without a song from one week's end to the other. It is well known, that a child will sing when it is happy, and that it cannot sing when sullen or cross.
In our primary schools, singing is a sine qua non. With a song interspersed with the other exercises, the restless- ness of the little ones is relieved, attention is restored to the inattentive, and all care seems driven away. No ses- sion of school should pass without music being a part of the exercises. What would a church-service be without music? So with the school. Even our lyceums and lit- erary societies are introducing music into their exercises.
Who knows but what the time may come when our town meetings shall be opened with a song ?
There is no reason why the American people should not be as musical as the German. The education must begin with the child. Every one cannot be a musician ; neither can he be an orator: yet all can learn to read music as well as to read his mother's tongue.
Finally, we can but repeat what was said last year as to the faithfulness and efficiency of our music-teacher, and the co-operation of the other teachers; urging upon all not to neglect this useful and ornamental branch of our school- education.
Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.