USA > Massachusetts > Plymouth County > Norwell > Town of Norwell annual report 1930-1939 > Part 4
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School closes
April 27
School opens
May 30
Holiday
June 19
School closes
SUMMER VACATION
September 9 School opens
October 12 Holiday
November 11 Holiday
November 25 to November 30 Thanksgiving recess
December 23
School closes
1932
January 4 . School opens
February 19 School Closes
February 29 School opens
April 15 School closes
April 25
School opens
May 30 Holiday
June 24 School closes
95
TOWN OF NORWELL
SCHOOL COMMITTEE REGULATIONS
Children who become five years of age on July first may enter school the following September. The only exception to this rule is that under-age children may be admitted to school on the basis of intelligence tests.
No child under seven years of age will be admitted to school for the first time after October first of any year.
A child entering school for the first time is required to present to the teacher a birth certificate and a vaccination or exemption from vaccination certificate.
School Committee
To the Citizens of Norwell :-
In making our report for 1930, we are bringing to your attention some of the changes made in our buildings and equipment, leaving the report of the academic life of the school to those with whom that phase of the subject is en- trusted.
During the summer vacation we altered District, No. 5 school building in respect to its lighting. As in all old type buildings, the class rooms contained windows on op- posit sides, furnishing a cross light which is very injurious to the eyes. In altering this building, the windows on the north side were removed and reset on the south side. The seats were then arranged in that position which allowed the light to enter the room over the left shoulder or back of the pupil. This change not only improved the lighting but the general appearance of the room. It is, planned to make a like change at Ridge Hill as soon as money is avail- able.
Having received many complaints of the use of the school yard at District No. 1 by automobilists as a short cut, even when children were at play, we erected a sub- stantial iron fence on the Washington street side of the yard. We feel sure this fence will discourage any further occurence of this dangerous practice.
97
TOWN OF NORWELL
The number of pupils in this school being sufficient to warrant the change, the grades were separated. The third and fourth grades were moved up stairs with Mrs. Jones in charge, leaving the first and second down stairs under the direction of Miss Blossom. This seems to be a most admirable arrangement.
The High School building received a coat of paint outside, which has greatly improved its appearance. It was neces- sary to paint several of the class rooms. The accumulation of smoke and its yearly removal on water color walls, left its toll in the form of streaks. Oil paint was used in the redecoration, which may be cleaned without leaving streaks. The old furnture was sanded and refinished and the ceilings whitened, with rooms of good appearance resulting.
The auditorium, which is first of all the Town Hall, speaks for itself. It may be interesting however to some to know how it got its present splendid appearance. First of all the Selectmen caused the hall to be painted, at which time the School Committee, after receiving permission from the Selectmen replaced the hideous colored glass corners in the small windows with plain glass. The Woman's Repub- lican club very generously donated a basget ball net to pro- tect the ceiling and wills during a game. In order to put up this net, it was necessary to raise the lights which was done by the School Committee, who at the same time furn- ished the mtal guards to further protect the lights.
For two years we had realized that the stage front and wings built by the pupils, several years ago, had outlived their usefulness. After much planning we devised the present iron pipe frame and called up Mr. Ernest Sparrell's decorator Mr. Howes to see if our idea was practical. After making suggestions and submitting his estimate of its cost, Mr. Howes was instructed to proceed with the exe-
98
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
cution of our plan. The frame is erected in such a manner that the whole thing may be taken down and put away if at any time parties using the Hall wish to do so. The side curtains are of heavy denim weighted to prevent blowing and the drop curtain is of a beautiful rich velour, which when lifted drapes in graceful lines instead of rolling. The appearance of the whole is according to all comments, very pleasing to the eye. The School Committee purchased an upright piano which may be moved about the Hall, some- thing it was impossible to do with the concert grand Chick- ering so generously given by Mr. Gutterson several years ago.
An electric clock has been purchased which we hope to have in place on the face of the balcony before the March meeting.
Much credit is due Mr. Merritt our custodian for the spotless appearance of the entire building. We know the teachers appreciate his helpfulness in making little appli- ances for the class rooms, as well as cheerfully complying with their numerous requests. His efforts are not confined to the inside of the building however, as the school grounds testify. We wish those people who drive to the Hall for gatherings would co-operate with Mr. Merritt and the Committee in the matter of parking their cars. An effort is being made to keep the cars off the lawn at all points, especially where Mr. Cochran has planted small evergreen trees and to the East of the building from the driveway down across the filter bed. It seems very necessary to keep off the filter bed as the concern from whom the sys- tem was purchased cautioned us against its use for park- ing. They are released from responsibility of its operation if it is so used. Ample parking space has been provided at the rear of the Hall with an opportunity of driving completely around the building. Please help yourself by helping us in this matter.
99
TOWN OF NORWELL
Bids were received for coal for the Central building as follows: Basil Simmons $7.50 per ton; Phillips Bates & Co. $7.40 per ton: The contract was awarded Phillips Bates & Co., and we were given an additional discount of 2% for paying cash.
The equipment of our domestic science room has been enriched by the addition of an electric stove and electric sewing machine. We feel sure our girls are receiving much benefit from the course.
Many of you know what excellent work is being accom- plished by Mrs. Stetson in her music and by Mr. Booth in his art classes.
There are many things we would like to have for our schools but they all cost money and we have refrained from asking for an increased appropriation this year. We have worked hard to provide what we have with the money rais- ed but it has been a joy and well worth while.
Respectfully submitted :
NELLIE L. SPARRELL, Sec. BENJAMIN LORING, Chairman GRACE B. V. DINSMOOR
School Superintendent
To the School Committee and Citizens of Norwell :
This, my third annual report, is herewith submitted for your consideration. Included in it are the reports of the Principal of the High school and those of the special teach- ers.
In reviewing the work of the past year there seems to be no outstanding features. The co-operation of the voters in making it possible for the School Committee to make needed improvements lays a foundation for efficient work that is not to be discounted.
The pride that teachers and pupils must feel in bettered working conditions cannot help but act as an incentive to better work in the daily program. The value of attractive surrounding in the lives of our boys and girls will un- doubtedly be shown later in better citizenship. Buildings and grounds that passers-by comment favorably upon must be a source of pride to the town's people.
Our elementary schools are in the care of local teachers and because of this Norwell is not subjected every year to a changing corps in its first six grades. Then there is a local interest which is not to be discounted. The changes in teachers in the High school building were fewer last year than in former years and as a result registers a more satisfactory type of work.
101
TOWN OF NORWELL
Resignations and Elections
In June 1930 the following teachers resigned to accept other positions :
Miss Eleanor I. Hartling, Domestic Arts. Miss Edith C. Anderson, Junior High.
Miss Marjorie L. White of Adams, Massachusetts was elected for the work in Domestic Arts and Miss Oella Min- ard for the Junior High work. Miss White is a graduate of the Framingham Normal School four year course and Miss Minard of the four year course at Bridgewater.
Mrs. Florence B. Pinson of grades V and VI High School asked for a year's leave of absence which was grant- ed and her position was filled by Miss Jennie White of Nor- well, a Bridgewater graduate of June 1930. Because of the number of pupils in grades V and VI it became neces- sary to engage another teacher and Mrs. Grace Cole of Norwell was employed for the year. At Ridge Hill grades I to IV, because of number had to be separated and Miss
Alice Blossom assistant in the school was given the first two grades and Mrs. Jones grades III and IV. A change of three teachers at the close of the year is not great but every effort should be made to keep efficient teachers as long as possible. A changing corps of teachers does not make for steadfasteness in the plans for the progress of the schools.
Teachers who have done professional work during the year are as follows :
Roland W. Payne, Columbia Summer School. Rodman Booth, Designers' Practical Arts. A. Philip Daggett, Boston University. Alice Blossom, Hyannis Summer School.
102
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
The following teachers took a reading course in Brockton, one day a week for six weeks during the summer :
Miss Marion Merritt. Mrs. Florence Pinson. Mrs. Ella Osborne Mrs. Lois C. Turner.
For a number of years past efforts have been made to awaken an interest in public speaking which would result in a contest embracing the schools of the three towns. Such a contest was held in May 1930 at the Hanover High school and was a very pleasing affair. Preliminary contests were held in each of the three towns. Those taking part in the preliminary contest in Norwell were the following :
Richard Gaudette Ruth Knapp David Pearlstein Olga Roman Charlotte Weare
Madeline Grindall Charlotte Mesheau Banning Repllier Eleanor Wadsworth Esther Whiting
From this number the judges chose the following to rep- resent the town in the final contest :
Ruth Knapp Banning Repplier
Eleanor Wadsworth Esther Whiting
Music was furnished by the pupils of the seventh and eighth grades for the preliminary and final contests.
Mr. David A. Sausser, a member of the Hanover school board presented a trophy to be given from year to year to the winning team.
The teachers association of the three towns has arranged
103
TOWN OF NORWELL
to care for the expense of the prizes in the future final con- tests.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Seven recommendations were made in the report of 1929. Six of these have become accomplishments. The seventh will be realized beginning February 1931. In addition new English books have been supplied for all elementary pupils.
In closing I should like to express my appreciation of the fine spirit of co-operation which has come to me from all connected with the schools.
Respectfully submitted,
HAROLD E. JACKMAN, Superintendent of Schools
TEACHING STAFF STATISTICS SEPT. 1930
TEACHERS
Grades or Subjects
Home Address
Years of Experience
Salary
Education
Roland W. Payne, Prin
Math.
Norwell
6
$2400
A. Philip Daggett
Science
Norwell
3
1800
History
Commercial
Norwell
11
1600
Bridgewater Normal
Latin, French
Rockland
2
1350
Tufts College
English, Music
Medford
1
1300
Tufts College
Domestic Art
Adams
1
1250
Social Studies
New Bedford
1
700
Oella Minard
Social Studies
Milton
0
1100
Math.
Grade VI
Norwell
1200
Jennie A. White
Grade V
Norwell
0
1000
Bridgeawter 4 year course.
Center Primary Ella F. Osborne Marion G. Merritt
Grade III, IV Grade I, II
Norwell
18
1200
Norwell
41
1200
Grade III, IV Grade I, II
Norwell
13
1200
Norwell
3
1000
Norwell High Hyannis Summer School
104
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
Colby College, Spring- field Y. M. C. A. Bowdoin College
Lois C. Turner Marion J. Hurley Muriel Simonson Marjorie L. White Rodman Booth
Framingham, Mass.
Designer's Art School Boston, Mass. Bridgewater 4 year course.
Grace F. Cole
00 8
Bridgewater 4 year course.
Norwell High Bridgewater 1 year
Ridge Hill Minnie F. Jones Alice Blossom
105
TOWN OF NORWELL
ENROLLMENT SEPTEMBER 1930
High School
Grade 12 10
Grade 11 17
-
Grade 10 20
Grade 9
18
65
Grade 8
24
Grade 7
23
47
Grade 6
30
Grade 5
33
Center Primary
Grade 4
16
Grade 3
12
Grade 2
9
Grade 1
17
Ridge Hill
16
Grade 4
11
Grade 3
11
Grade 2
Grade 1 13
51
280
63
54
106
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
SCHOOL SAVINGS COLLECTION FOR SCHOOL YEAR 1929-30
School Teacher
Deposits
Per cent
Grade 8 -* Mrs. Turner
$ 65 75
99%
Grade 5-Mrs. Pinson
66 75
97%
Ridge Hill-Mrs. Jones
282 99
93%
Grade 7-Miss Simonson
118 46
91%
Grade 10-Miss Hurley
117 39
91%
Center-Mrs. Osborn
96 16
91%
Grade 6-Mrs. Pinson
38 99
87%
Center-Miss Merritt
97 61
86%
Grade 9-Miss Anderson
181 25
76%
Grade 11-Mr. Daggett
62 96
74%
Grade 12-Mr. Daggett
94 29
66%
$1 223 58
86%
Number of times each room has had 100% deposits.
Mrs. Turner 24
Mrs. Osborn 3
Mrs. Jones 19
Miss Merritt 3
Mrs. Pinson (5) 17
Mr. Daggett (9)
3
Miss Hurley 13
Miss Anderson 2
Mrs. Pinson (6) 6
Mr. Daggett (12)
2
Miss Simonson 1
* Mrs. Turner wins banner for the year.
MEMBERSHIP BY AGE AND GRADE, OCTOBER 1, 1930 BOYS
Age
5 6 7
8 9
10
11
12
13 14 15
16 17 18 Total
Grade
15
1
12
3
13
2
6
6
1
11
3
6
3
2
14
4
4
6.
2
1
1
18
5
8
5
4
1
.
6
3
4
3
4
1
1
6
1
2
11
7
1
8
2
2
8
3
2
2
1
8
9
1
2
2
2
1
1
9
10
2
6
8
11
1
2
3
12
Total 12
9 .12 7
16
11 10 7 22
7 12
8
3
3
139
2
16
13
TOWN OF NORWELL
107
MEMBERSHIP BY AGE AND GRADE, OCTOBER 1, 1930 GIRLS
Age
5 6 7 8 9
10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18 Total
Grade
15
2
3
4
7
3
6
6
12
4
9
8
1
18
5
4
7 3
1
15
6
7
5
1
1
14
7
3 6
2
1
12
00 8
2
9
11
9
3
3
1
3
10
10
2
4
2
3
11
11
4
4
1
9
12
1
3
3
7
Total 11
7 10 15
12 15 11 10
17 8
4 13
7
1
141
108
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
1
11
4
High School Principal
To the Superintendent of Schools- Mr. Harold E. Jackman :
In my second annual report to you I feel confident in stating that the Norwell High and Grammar School during the past year has apparently continued to improve in all of its departments. Many noteworthy changes have taken place. This is gratifying because without changes there can be no progress.
The class graduating in June 1930 was the largest class to receive diplomas from this school. There were fourteen in number, eight boys and six girls. Three of these girls have continued further in their education. At the present time the alumni who are in educational institutions are the Misses Helen Wiggin, Ruth Smith, Cynthia Robbins, Elsie Henderson, Delia Gaudette, and Elsie Maxwell; and boys being Charles Prouty, Robert Brown and John Lind. I am glad to see this number continue in their efforts to im- prove themselves and as time passes I am desirous of hav- ing an increased number realize the importance of higher education.
Although the class of 1930 did not go on a week-end trip to New York City as they had hoped to, they did enjoy an all day picnic at Brant Rock and Nantasket Beach, and a theatre party one night in Boston. Their class day exer-
110
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
cises followed their annual banquet. A novel feature at this time was the presence of the Class of 1905 who had a table in celebration of their twenty fifth anniversary. It was interesting to hear the original class history read which was written by the secretary of this class twenty-five years ago.
Last spring near the end of the school year each class was given the privilege of going on a class picnic. One class chose a boat ride to Provincetown and return.
The social activities of last Spring included a Junior class Dance and the annual operetta. The dance was called a mid-winter sports dance. The auditorium was attrac- tively decorated in black and white. At this dance the var- sity letters earned in basketball were awarded to both boys and girls. The operetta "The Windmills of Holland" was presented under the direction of Mrs. Pansy Stetson, as- sisted by Miss Muriel Simonson.
"Dulcy," the annual school play, was the first major ac- tivity of the current school year. It was a success in all respects. There were eleven in the cast and the coaching was done by Miss Muriel Simonson. The play was present- ed November 13th which marks the earliest date that an annual play has been presented. On December 18th the seniors held their invitation dance. Worth mentioning at this point was the great amount of labor and effort which was put into the decoration of the hall. Norwell High School has built up a reputation for very successful enter- tainments. I believe that most of the credit should go to Miss Muriel Simonson who is now taking charge of the senior activities for the second year.
The operetta chosen for presentation this year is "The Sunbonnet Girl." Although the eperetta given last year
111
TOWN OF NORWELL
was acclaimed to be a huge success, I beleive this one will be even more pleasing to the public. It will be presented in April.
One of the projects undertaken this year is the publica- tion of a printed school paper of sixteen pages published quarterly and called "The Shipbuilder." It is financed by selling space for advertising, and it may be of interest to know that all issues are paid for before copy is sent to the printers. Previous to this year, the "Shipbuilder" was a mimeographed paper.
Thrift among the pupils is even better this year than it was last year. Seldom are there more than two out of eight classes whose members do not deposit weekly at the rate of a one hundred per cent class. These one or two classes are better than ninety per cent thrifty. I am glad that this habit is a growing and strenthening one and any parent or teacher who encourages thrift is doing a personal favor to any child.
In the field of high school athletics Norwell has made a very respectable showing. Clean play and good sports- manship is lauded rather than a winning team. A few lines of verse which I overheard a coach give our team goes something like this : "The smile after victory is a smile of satisfaction; the smile after defeat is a smile of character." We do not sponsor any competitive athletics during the fall. Possibly another year soccer might be made a competitive sport between some of the schools on the South Shore. If this cannot be accomplished, I would suggest that intramural basketball games be encouraged. This will not only increase the pupil's ability to play the game, but will also furnish good healthy exercise.
Miss Marjorie White is doing credible work with the
112
EIGHTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT
girl's basketball team this year. This is proven by the fact that they are making a much better showing than last year. The boys' basketball team is being coached by Mr. Philbrook Daggett of the faculty this year and he is turning out what looks to be a championship team at the time of this report. In baseball last spring, we experienced a very satisfactory season. We were next to the leaders in the South Shore League. We would undoubtedly have done even better if it had not been that some of the boys who were excellent players had to drop out of school and go to work.
Along with these praises of our school productions, I I would like to make note of the effort put forth by the students who take part in these extra-curricula activities.
After rehearsals, which are many, these pupils have to walk home; many of them having a distance to cover meas- ured in many miles and often in inclement weather. Too often, I think, these times are forgotten. Also may I praise my whole corps of teachers for their loyalty and co-opera- tion and their faithfulness in service. You have selected teachers to work with me of whom I am proud, and I find it a pleasure to associate with them.
We miss the excellent personalities of three teachers who were with us last year. These are Mrs. Florence Pinson, teacher of grades five and six who was forced to give up school on account of her health; Miss Eleanor Hartling, our domestic science teacher who has gone to North Easton, her home town, to teach; Miss Edith Anderson, our Junior High School teacher, who also went nearer her home to resume her duties in teaching.
Norwell was fortunate in obtaining the services of the following new teachers : Miss Jennie White for grade five; Mrs. Grace Cole, grade six; Miss Oella Minard, Jun- ior High; Miss Marjorie White, domestic science and girls
113
TOWN OF NORWELL
physical director. Each of these teachers have co-operated and carried on the good work to a higher level in their re- spective fields. There were no changes in the faculty of the senior high school.
Even though much has been said in appreciation of all that has been done for us in the way of material improve- ment and betterment, it behooves me at this time to men- tion once again in behalf of the members of the faculty and pupils, our appreciation of a beautiful assembly hall; the cleaner class-room walls; new desks; an office file, the elec- tric clocks in each room; and an electric stove and sewing machine in the domestic science room; as wel as the num- erous supplies and other equipment added to the building. I believe that one way which the pupils show their appreci- ation for these material advantages is their respect for property, which has seemed to increase tremendously during the past two years.
I cannot forget to mention the hearty co-operation of our janitor in all school activities. He has always proven most willing regardless of what has been asked of him, and has been splendid in fulfilling his duties. To him much credit goes for the pleasing appearance of the building and grounds.
Some changes have been made in the administration of the school and all of these have been made with the better- ment of the pupils, and the school as a whole, in mind. I hav received a tremendous amount of good sound advice and comradeship from you, Mr. Jackman, and the increasing co-operation is showing itself in the improved conditions which we are offering the Norwell boys and girls.
Respectfully submitted,
ROLAND W. PAYNE
School Dentist
Mr. Harold Jackman Superintendent of School Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Sir :-
The following is a report of the work accomplished in the School Dental Clinic from January 1, 1930 to December 31, 1930.
Children were examined in grades up to the Junior High school.
Number of examinations 150
Number of applications for clinic 174
Number of completed cases 106
Number of fillings :
Amalgam 419
Cement 42
Porcelain 35
Number of extractions :
Temporary teeth 68
Permanent teeth 8
Number of treatments 37
Number of cleanings 108
115
TOWN OF NORWELL
It is gratifying to note that at this time that all but two pupils in the fifth grade have been completed and these children are attending the clinic at the present time.
By concentrating on the lower grades we hope to have the grammar grades one hundred per cent perfect by Child Health Day in May.
Respectfully submitted,
WILLIS B. PARSONS
School Nurse
Number of visits to schools 321 (These visits include visits made with school physician and dentist. )
Number of visits to homes of school children 197
Number of inspections (sanitary) 64
Number of inspections (teeth, hair, skin, throats, etc.) 43
Number of visits to clinics 63
Number of children carried home ill 27
Number of children having ears tested with audiometer 132 Number of children having ears retested with audiometer 10 Number of children having defective hearing 6
Number of children having other physical defects . 75
Number of children having defects partially corrected 41
Number of children having defects wholly corrected 32
Number of children excluded from school 42
Number of children excluded for measles 24
Number of children excluded for mumps 7
Number of children excluded for chicken pox 4
Number of children excluded for scabies 2
Number of children excluded for impetigo 5
PRE-SCHOOL CLINIC
Number of children examined at pre-school clinics
Number of children having all physical defects corrected Number of children having some physical defects corrected
Respectfully submitted
CATHERINE A. ROE
Supervisor of Music
Mr. Harold E. Jackman, Superintendent of Schools,
Dear Sir :
I respectfully submit my annual report of music in the public schools of Norwell.
The work is going on practically the same as last year. Every room is well equipped with new music readers which are very attractive, in large print, and containing songs which children enjoy.
Last year, a set of Columbia records was purchased to go with the readers in the lower grades. In the study of records the little people are learning to recognize the differ- ent instruments playing the very songs which they have memorized.
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