USA > Massachusetts > Plymouth County > Norwell > Town of Norwell annual report 1930-1939 > Part 52
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A child entering school for the first time is required to present to the teacher a birth certificate and vaccination or exemption from vaccination certificates. Exemption certificates must be renewed every six months.
SIGNALS FOR NO SESSIONS OF SCHOOL
Signal is 2-2-2
The "No School" announcement will be broadcast over WNAC' and WEEI between 7 o'clock and 8 o'clock.
NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
SCHOOL CALENDAR
1940
January
2-School opens
February
16-School closes
February
26-School opens
April
12-School closes
April
22-School opens
May
30, 31-Holidays
June
21-School closes
Summer Vacation
September
4-School opens
November
11-Holiday
November
27-School closes at noon for Thanksgiving
December
20-School closes
1941
January
2-School opens
February
21-School closes
March
3-School opens
April
18-School closes
April
28-School opens
May
30-Holiday
Week of June 20-School closes
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TOWN OF NORWELL
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The Physical Education program of the Norwell Schools for the year 1939, underwent several changes in policy.
Due to the generosity of the Parent-Teachers' Associa- tion, the sum of twenty dollars was expended for mater- ials for use by pupils of grades one through six. The balls, ropes and games thus purchased added much to the breadth of the program.
In September, grades four, five and six were reduced to a supervised program because of lack of teacher time nec- essary to handle regular classes as was formerly done.
The Junior-Senior High School program was expanded to include girls of grades seven, eight and nine under the direction of Miss Harris. Classes for boys of grades seven through twelve have been made possible by the kind cooperation of Mr. Thayer.
The program has been broadened in scope since its in- ception two years ago, and at the present time includes nearly every school pupil in its activities. Such growth is principally due to the splendid cooperation of the sev- eral groups and individuals who have had a part in ad- vancing the program to its present state.
Respectfully submitted,
NORMAN W. SIPPLE
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
MUSIC DEPARTMENT
School music today is more than a restricted study of song material through the sight reading approach. Song material must still remain the core of the elementary school music course, but the need for a broader presenta- tion has emerged from the demands of the time. The school exists for the child and the child today needs a broad view of music to help him make the proper life ad- justments.
The Music Hour series which are being used in the grades not only includes the necessary song material but also a complete course in music appreciation integrated with every music activity; a program of rhythmic develop- ment; studies correlated with instrumental music; and music material correlating with the parallel fields of study in literature, history, geography and art.
Instrumental classes have been organized in violin, clarinet, trumpet, cornet, trombone and drum from the fourth to the ninth grades. These classes will lead to a school orchestra and band. We hope many more students will take advantage of these lessons given free in school time. The study of an instrument has an emotional, physi- cal, social, and vocational benefit.
Since September there has been formed two glee clubs. One glee club consists of selected students from the fourth, fifth and six grades. This group meets once a week for rehearsal and is working on unison and two part songs. The second group is the high school glee club which is elective and consists of about thirty-five pupils. This group meets once every two weeks and studies two and three part songs.
Respectfully submitted,
MYRTLE BOWLIN,
Supervisor of Music
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TOWN OF NORWELL
ART DEPARTMENT
Mr. Thomas E. Rush
Superintendent of Schools
Norwell, Mass:
Sir:
The following is my report for the work of the Art Department in the Norwell Schools for 1939.
Demonstration lessons taught and supervision of art instruction at the following schools:
1. Thursdays, Center Primary, 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.
2. Mondays, Ridge Hill, 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.
3. Monday and Thursday mornings, High School.
The above schedule was followed from January 1 to the close of school in June. Since September the following schedule has been used.
1. Monday, High School (including grades 5 and 6).
2. Thursday, High School, 9 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
Ridge Hill and Center Primary, 10:55 a.m. to 12 m. alternate weeks.
High School in afternoon.
Pupils' work has been exhibited at the following places:
1. February meeting of the Association of Parents and Teachers.
2. Marshfield Fair, August, 1939.
3. At special exercises throughout the school year.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
Many departments in our school system and many town organizations have called upon us for posters, scenery and decorative aid. The pageant given by the senior class was the most ambitious task of the year. It was a great pleas- ure to work with this group and their results were most gratifying. We have again welcomed the opportunity to be of service to various town organizations.
A course of study in art, for use in our schools is being prepared. It is hoped that this statement of our aims will further enrich the town's educational structure.
It is with great pleasure that I thank all those connected with out schools for their part in making art work joyful and vital to our boys and girls.
Respectfully submitted,
H. RODMAN BOOTH, Art Supervisor
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TOWN OF NORWELL
SCHOOL PHYSICIAN
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Superintendent of Schools,
Norwell, Massachusetts.
Dear Sir:
The past year's record gives me the opportunity of rend- ering you an encouraging report.
The routine examination revealed a group of pupils with general health well above the average. There were a minimum of defects detected and the majority of these are repetitions and are not able to be corrected. Special attention was given to isolation, treatment and prevention of Epidermiphytosis, popularly known as "Athlete's Foot." The incidence of this disease was exteremly low compared to other public institutions.
All the athletes were carefully examined before being allowed to compete on the various teams. There were a a few who were advised not to enter the strenuous sports. All parents were asked to share the responsibility of their children's participation by signing permissions.
Inspection of the sanitation in the schools has proven satisfactory and frequent efforts are made to maintain the efficiency ..
Health education has been emphasized to the respective teachers. A definite program has been considered and is being put into effect. The important point is to impress the parents with the need of their co-operation in the problem of daily "Personal Hygiene" before the children leave home in the morning. This gives the teachers an oppor- tunity to carry the program further.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
I truly believe we have established a good record on the control of contagion but would like to take this opportun- ity to suggest that PREVENTIVE MEDICINE is of para- mount importance. Teachers and students alike should remain at home with their "colds."
Further pertinent data has been included in the report of the school nurse.
It has been a pleasure and privilege to enjoy the co- operation of the faculty.
Thank you.
Very truly yours,
RAYMOND G. VINAL, M. D.
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TOWN OF NORWELL
SCHOOL DENTIST
To the Superintendent of Schools:
The following is a summary of the work done in the Dental Clinic for the year 1939.
Number of fillings in temporary teeth 147
Number of fillings in permanent teeth 334
Number of extractions of permanent teeth 2
Number of extractions of temporary teeth 45
Teeth treated 63
Number of cleanings 113
Completed Cases 106
Every Wednesday during the school year, the dental clinic is held at the High School. Each grade is finished before starting the next higher grade. At present, work is just starting on the sixth grade. Work continues throughout the year on the first three grades. Before June we hope to complete the seventh and do some work in the eighth grade. After the eighth grade, the children hav- ing been trained in caring for their teeth, are supposed to visit their family dentist at regular intervals.
Respectfully submitted,
W. B. PARSONS, D.M.D.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
SCHOOL NURSE
To the Superintendent of Schools:
Mr. Thomas E. Rush.
During the past year the routine health and dental examinations were made by the school physician and dentist. Notices were sent to the parents of children hav- ing defects and as a result of "follow-up visits," it is grati- fying to note that in most instances further examination with the necessary correction of defects followed.
The diphtheria prevention clinic was conducted in the spring and, although the majority of children in Norwell have been immunized against this disease, there were twenty pre-school children given the innoculation.
The summer round up in May, followed by the pre- school clinic during June and July presented the usual opportunity for parents to have a complete health check- up of their children who were entering school for the first time in September. I cannot emphasize too much the im- portance and value of these two clinics. It is of tremen- dous assistance to all who are concerned with the health of the school child.
The tuberculosis clinic was held in September. The cooperation between the parents and school department can best be noted by the number of parents giving their consent to have their children examined at this clinic. Approximately 90% of the Senior High school were tested. Nine children were X-Rayed because of a reaction to the test-and as a result of the X-Rays five children were given complete physical examinations with a parent pres- ent at the examination.
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TOWN OF NORWELL
The hot lunches served in the primary schools are an additional duty which the teachers in the lower grades graciously assume during the winter months, and I wish to express my gratitude to all who through their coopera- tion are helping to make Norwell a healthier and happier community in which to live.
Respectfully submitted,
CATHERINE A. ROE.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Mr. Thomas E. Rush
Superintendent of Schools
Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Rush:
Herewith is submitted the Annual Report of the prin- cipal of Norwell High School for the year 1939.
Scholarship
In June two pupils took College Entrance Board Exam- inations which were given to students from various sec- tions of the country. The records of the Norwell High pupils were commendable. Further evidence of the qual- ity of training is revealed by the reports from the deans of the institutions at which graduates of 1939 matriculated. These reports show records of favorable scholastic achievement and in no instance were there failures.
A summary of post-secondary institutions entered by Norwell graduates of the last three years is as follows:
Post-Seconary Institutions Attended by Norwell Graduates
School
1937
1938
1939
Portia College
1
1
1
Cornell University
1
Massachusetts State College
1
1
Northeastern University
1
Burdett College
1
Emerson College
1
Annapolis
1
Wilbraham Academy
1
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TOWN OF NORWELL
Hebron Academy
1
Bryant and Stratton
1
Middlesex University
1
Total
4
6
4
14
National Honor Society
To give recognition to high scholarship and good citizen- ship Norwell High School became a member of the National Honor Society. This organization counts among its members many High Schools in the country and re- quires a high degree of scholastic and citizenship achieve- ment. Eleven pupils from the Junior and Senior classes are members.
Graduation
The 1939 graduation was a departure from the tradi- tional stereotyped exercises. Under the direction of the English teacher and with assistance from the art and commercial departments, the Senior class prepared and presented a pageant entitled, "The Saga of Norwell." This represented six scenes taken from highlights in the His- tory of Norwell. The program was very creditable and well received.
Activities
Public Performances:
On March 23 various departments of the High School presented a program for the Parent-Teacher organization.
The usual high level of dramatic performance was dis- played in the Interclass Play contest which was held March 30. The honors were obtained by the Junior Class with its presentation of "Revenge of Shari-Hot-Su."
For the second consecutive year Norwell High School won the Tri-Town Play contest. Under able direction the cast received first place with the play, "The Kick Off."
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
Assemblies
Cultural programs were provided by means of lectures, musical presentations, demonstrations and motion pic- tures. Vocational guidance programs were planned in the Spring. These consisted of speakers from colleges and insitutions. In addition to the programs from the outside, various school organizations participated in assemblies throughout the year.
Athletics
Norwell High has in the past produced outstanding ath- letic teams. Recently, the athletic records have been be- low the standard. Nevertheless, the athletic program is not predicated on the principle that athletics is for the selected few and that teams are to be developed for the singular purpose of winning. To provide opportunity for all to participate and to bring the record of the varsity teams to a level of creditableness the following steps have been taken:
a. Extension of the physical education program.
b. Division of coaching responsibilities.
c. An assistant for boys' basketball, Norwell's major sport.
.This year the girls organized a field hockey team which played games with Hanover and Pembroke. There will be a field hockey schedule as a regular part of our athletic program next year.
Recognizing the need for an extension of the physical education and health program, gymnasium classes were provided for boys to grade twelve and for girls to grade ten. Heretofore, there had been no provision for this be- yond the eighth grade. In keeping with the policy that pupils should be taught those activities in which they will normally participate in adult life, gymnasium classes
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TOWN OF NORWELL
provide opportunity to play volley ball, badminton and other recreational games.
Funds were made available by the Parent-Teacher or- ganization to purchase field hockey equipment, basket- balls, and uniforms for girls and boys. The pupils are highly appreciative of this generous gift.
Curriculum Development
In order to meet an extended educational schedule and to provide a more flexible arrangement, a staggered pro- gram was used. This allowed the following curriculum enrichment:
Instrumental Music: At the present time there are reg- ular classes for violins, drums, clarinet, trumpet, trom- bone and saxophone.
Penmanship: A class for eighth grade penmanship was arranged. An outcome of this has been a penmanship test and rating for all High School pupils. The teachers are enthusiastically cooperating to improve the pupils' written work.
Physical Education: Gymnasium classes are provided beyond the eighth grade.
Utility Period: A period for clubs and assemblies was established.
Library
Although not developed or utilized to the extent to which we would like it, our library is being given added emphasis and attention by means of:
a. A gift of over fifty new books by the Parent-Teachers' Association.
b. A presentation of a collection of books from Mr. Leonard Allen's library.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
c. A Book Fair with a guest speaker.
d. A generous support of the Leonard Allen Fund by a group of the Alumni who plan to raise money by a repeat performance of "Little Women."
Recommendations
Norwell is a growing community with a new High School which has opened up broader and increased edu- cational opportunities. The developments of the past year have been in the direction of responding to this growth as reflected in the High School and to make greater use of the additional facilities offered by the new buildings. In that these do not consummate the needs, the following are offered for consideration:
Courses
Only 27% of the pupils select the college preparatory course. Consequently, about 73% do not receive any train- ing in mathematics during the last four years. Most of our graduating pupils leave school with a mathematical background which extends but to the 8th grade level. There is an essential need for practical mathematics in the 9th grade.
Where as the non-college preparatory pupil does not receive any general science instruction beyond the 9th gråde it would be desirable to have a consumer science course in the 11th grade. Most of our pupils terminate their formal education when they graduate. Neverthe- less, each is a potential consumer and the ever growing problems of the consumer have made consumer education a vital and important phase of secondary education.
Additional Teacher
The present teaching load will not permit the assump- tion of more courses. In consequence of this and to meet
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immediate needs, the High School should have on its staff a trained physical education instructor qualified to teach mathematics and one who would head the health, physical education and athletic program which should be more adequately developed.
Library Fund
The Norwell High School Library is the most immediate source of desirable reading material for many pupils. There are those who find it difficult to obtain transporta- tion to the public library, and they have to rely upon the school for books and magazines. In spite of the gifts of friends and the Parent-Teachers' Association, the many bare shelves bespeak how poorly the library is serving the pupils. At present with no constant sizeable fund for the purchase of new books and in view of the pupils' needs, I recommend that the school budget contain a sum for the school library.
Late Buses
Over 90% of our student body is transported by buses. Because of this, most pupils leave immediately at the close of school. What little after-school program we can have is irregularly attended, and reaches but a limited few due to the difficulty of obtaining transportation. If two late buses could provide transportation over the main routes the school facilities would be made available to more pu- pils, and an organized after-school extra-curricular pro- gram could be developed.
Manual Arts
The boys do use and will use the fundamental tools of manual arts. Also there are those who have more man- ual ability than others. Yet, there is no provision for training in general shop work. There is space in the Nor- well High School which could be equipped for use as a
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
general shop. May I substantiate my recommendation for a Manual arts course with the statement that the Massa- chusetts Report on Curriculum Revision for Small Massa- chusetts High Schools and the Massachusetts Report on A Civic Curriculum recommend Manual Arts and General Shop.
I express my sincere appreciation of the assistance and cooperation of the faculty, of the support of the school board and of your kind assistance and guidance during the year.
Respectfully submitted,
GORDON O. THAYER, Principal.
TOWN OF NORWELL
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SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT
To the School Committee of the Town of Norwell:
Viewed in retrospect, the schools of Norwell show steady progress in growth, in housing accommodations, in equipment and in teaching effectiveness. To you who have and who are giving your time, attention and abilities in serving the community through its schools this must be a source of recompense and of satisfaction. To citizens who give their loyalty and support to the schools, this must be encouraging and gratifying.
Tables submitted herewith indicate the amount and kind of growth in school population during the past twelve years. The greatest growth has occurred at the high school level. This has been taken care of through the erection of a new, modern building. At present, it is taking care of the intermediate grades also. The primary grades, while comfortably housed, are not as fortunate as the higher grades. At the two primary school buildings, it is necessary, still, to have combinations of grades two and three. Perhaps, at present, this cannot be avoided. However, any building plan of, or for the future should allow for the possibility and desirability of a separate room and teacher for each grade.
The importance of the primary grades can hardly be over-estimated. Here the child begins his school life: here he acquires facts, skills and attitudes which will de- termine in large part, his future success in school and in life itself. Therefore, the total school surroundings and situation should be the best possible. The teacher should
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
be permitted to devote her entire day to one grade of no more than thirty pupils. It should be made possible for her to adjust her teachings to pupil needs, abilities and interests.
School equipment and materials are being increased gradually. Attempts are made to keep these in line with the needs of and the demands upon the school program. The school program, in turn, ought to be determined by the needs of the pupils it is meant to serve.
Examination of the program has revealed some weak- nesses. At. the high school level, there is need for addi- tional courses in Mathematics, in Science, in Handwork and in Physical Education. At present, the program is built to serve better pupils who are going to college than pupils who will not attend college. When it is found that not over twelve percent of the Norwell pupils have any intention of ever going to college, it seems evident that the majority of pupils are insufficiently and improperly provided for.
At the elementary school level, courses of study are not properly provided and there is still a shortage of proper text-books and supplementary books. To improve this situation and a similar one in the high school, committees of teachers have been appointed. These teachers will work with the Superintendent in bringing about improve- ments in the fields of Language and the Social studies. These committees have looked over and dihcussed the present situation, obtained and examined carefully several outstanding courses of study from other towns and cities and have reviewed most of the best textbooks in these fields. Working with the Superintendent, they will de- velop courses of study and make recommendations re- garding the textbooks and materials to be used. As the work in these two subjects nears completion, similar at- tention will be given other subjects and courses of study.
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TOWN OF NORWELL
Efforts are being made continuously to improve instruc- tion in the subjects now in the school program; these ef- forts will be continued. However, the program should be enlarged to include subjects referred to above. To do this will necessitate the hiring of at least one more teacher. If practical arts are added to the program, still another teacher, additional room and equipment must be obtained.
Instruction in the practical arts would add much to the training of the boys and girls of Norwell. This instruction should begin in grade five and be made available to pupils of each grade higher. Boys should not have to wait until they have arrived at trade school before receiving such instruction. Further more, very few of the boys of Norwell ever attend a trade school.
Instruction in practical arts should be offered not as preparation for a trade but as valuable, practical exper- ience which will enrich the life of each pupil. It should aim to develop muscular coordination and controls, prac- tical skills useful in everyday life and interests in and appreciation of simple, fundamental principles of con- struction. It would furnish experiences which would be valuable in discovering strong interests and special abil- ities of young people and help them in deciding upon their future vocations. It would provide for pupils opportuni- ties for deciding, planning, judging, executing and cre- ating in the field of reality. Pupils would be not only reading about things, but would be dealing with real things. Thus each pupil would be helped in developing practical common sense, a great asset whatever one's vocation or avocation.
The library at the High School should be enlarged greatly. A beginning has been made. If each year a sum of money for the purchase of library books is made available in the school budget, it will be only a relatively short time until this school has the kind of library needed.
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NINETIETH ANNUAL REPORT
This year the schools are receiving about twice as much time from a Music Supervisor as formerly. This has been made possible by only a very small increase in cost through having one supervisor give all her time to the schools of Norwell and Hanson and the Hanover High School. A definite and well articulated course of study is developed, orchestras and bands are being organized, choruses and glee clubs have been formed and each teach- er is being helped in developing skill in, love for, and appreciation of music. .
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