USA > Massachusetts > Plymouth County > Norwell > Town of Norwell annual report 1960-1969 > Part 27
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A longer school day and an eight-period schedule daily has made it possible to have:
1. Each chemistry and physics section meet from eight to ten 40-minute periods a week.
2. Band rehearsal two 40-minute periods a week.
3. Glee Club rehearsal two 40-minute periods a week.
4. Students studying French, German and Latin take all or part of an eighth period for additional use of the language laboratory.
5. Many of the extra-curricular activities meet during the regular school day rather than after school.
Curriculum studies in English and French have started this fall. The English department now has four teachers involved in the teach- ing of English and there are three teaching French this year. When-
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ever there is more than one teacher teaching a specific subject it becomes more essential to have a course of study in that subject.
Many parents and educators believe that the honor student or high achiever is not given enough recognition for his achievements. I share in this belief. This fall, Honor Study Halls were inaugurated at Norwell High School. Any student who is on the preceding term's honor roll and who has not been involved in any type of disciplin- ary action, detentions for discipline, etc., during that term is eligible to belong to an Honor Study Hall. A room, without a teacher for supervision, is provided each of the first seven periods for students exhibiting such achievement. Each student is responsible for his own actions in the Honor Study Hall and he may remain in the Honor Study until either his lack of high achievement or self-discipline removes him from such honor.
There has been a considerable increase in the number of students using the school library. This has been due to the increased number of books in the library and to our having a librarian in the library over fifty per cent of the school day. The library is also open, for student use, before school each day and from 2:15- 3:30 p.m. several afternoons each week.
Mechanical Drawing and Music Appreciation have been added to the program.
III. Plans for the Future
I recommend that the school day be lengthened by at least ten more minutes next year to enable us to have a six-hour school day, exclusive of the lunch period.
We are planning to add a third period of Physical Education for each boy and girl in the high school next year. This third period will be devoted to Health Education, not physical exercise.
A course in Literature and Speech and a course in Consumer Law and Economics are planned as additions to the Program of Studies for September, 1962.
The School Committee, administrators and staff of Norwell High School will begin an Evaluation of Norwell High School this winter. The Evaluation will consist of two parts: (1) A Self-Evaluation of the school by the above-mentioned individuals; and, ( 2) an Evalua- tion of the school by a visiting committee from the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
The Evaluation is an examination of close scrutiny of all the aspects of the educational program at the secondary-school level in
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Norwell. The Evaluation will seek to answer questions such as- "Does the school meet the educational needs of the youth of Norwell ? Is the educational program adequate? How comprehensive is the mathematics program ? Are the instructional materials adequate ? How well is each subject area being taught? Are there enough sub- jects being taught? Is the building being used to its greatest advan- tage? Does the staff and administration offer educational leader- ship ? How are the school finances organized and managed ? What guidance services are offered to the students ? Does the school have a large enough library ? Are the reference materials complete and up-to-date? Do the pupils participate in school government? What extra-curricular activities are available to the students ? How many students participate in school activities ? Are the staff members well prepared to teach in the areas in which they are teaching ?" These questions and many others must be answered during the Evaluation.
The primary purpose of the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools is to "upgrade the entire program of high- school education in ... New England" To achieve this purpose, the Association has set up an Evaluation Program for all member and prospective member schools. The aims of the Evaluation Program are: (1) to determine the characteristics of a good secondary school, (2) to evaluate the effectiveness of a school in terms of its objec- tives, (3) to determine the means and processes by which a good school develops into a better one, and (4) to stimulate and assist secondary schools to continuous growth.
Membership in the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools is of importance to the school, not only for stimulation of professional improvement but for accrediting pur- poses. When graduates of Norwell High School apply to colleges for admission, the colleges want to know if the high school belongs to any accrediting association. Most colleges have no way of knowing what one secondary school stands for unless that secondary school belongs to an association that represents high standards of education. Applicants from accredited schools have preference over applicants from schools that are not accredited by any association. The New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools is known not only in New England, but also throughout the country. Accredi- tation is even more important when you remember that over 60% of Norwell High School graduates go on to schools of higher learning.
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The Self-Evaluation will be completed by March, 1963 and the visiting committee of the Association will visit the school in March, 1963.
Respectfully submitted, ROBERT H. JACKMAN,
Principal
Report of the Junior High School Principal
Mr. Clifton E. Bradley
Superintendent of Schools
Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Bradley,
Norwell Junior High School with a grade six-seven-eight organi- zation began classes in September with an enrollment of over three hundred pupils and nine full-time teachers instructing in grades seven and eight. Four teachers taught in the four divisions of grade six.
The self-contained classroom has been generally the accepted pattern of procedure in grade six, with the homeroom teacher in- structing in most of the major subject-matter areas.
Grades seven and eight have been departmentalized in the fields of English, literature, mathematics, science, and social studies. The program in all three grades was balanced with offerings in home economics, industrial arts, physical education, music, art, handwriting, and foreign languages.
Homogeneous grouping has permitted certain pupils to accelerate in the learning process and has allowed all pupils to proceed with their studies at a rate and to a degree commensurate with capacity.
A division of grade eight has been assigned to a semester each of conversational French and conversational German- introductory to language elections in the senior high school.
French and science via television have enriched the offerings at the sixth grade level.
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Special emphasis upon good study habits has been a matter of planned concern this year with faculty and pupils. Miss C. Irene Barteau, retired from our faculty last year, has generously given of her time at scheduled intervals to work with teachers and pupils in organizing for improved study at home and at school.
Parent-teacher conferences in a number of instances have been very helpful in successfully contending with problems relativeto pupil progress. A mutual and cooperative effort in the interest of our young people by parents, teachers, and school administration is most de- sirable. Parents are urged to work closely with their schools to the end that children concerned may best achieve in their work at hand.
A guidance function continues to test, evaluate, and counsel. Miss Elizabeth Farrar and Mr. Hugh Chandler have been key persons in this important phase of child growth and development.
Social and athletic programs have been an important part of junior high living - subordinate and supplementary to, but support- ing, the academic.
Laboratory facilities and techniques have been possible for the first time this year in the teaching of science.
It is the feeling of your principal that the 1961-62 school year to date has been exceptionally fine and productive at this three-grade level of instruction. A joint effort by faculty; secretarial, custodial, cafeteria, and health staff members; and by special services personnel has provided an environment and opportunity for a large measure of success in the teaching-learning situation.
The function of a junior high school is to bridge the gap that exists between the elementary and senior high-school years and to treat with adolescents in terms of their abilities, interests, and needs. It is to this purpose that we dedicate our endeavor.
The support of the School Committee and that of the Citizens of Norwell has been, and continues to be, a major factor and in- fluence in favor of sound education in the Town.
We acknowledge with real and sincere appreciation the constant care and counsel provided by our Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Clifton E. Bradley. His countless contributions to public education in Norwell will long reflect from a system of schools his enthusiasm and vigor did so much to establish and maintain.
Respectfully submitted,
FREDERICK A. SMALL
Principal
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REPORT OF THE NORWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Mr. Clifton E. Bradley Superintendent of Schools Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Bradley :
Herewith is the annual report of the Norwell Elementary School:
As of December 22, 1961, we had enrolled at the Norwell Ele- mentary School 376 pupils. This is about 130 pupils less than last year, since the four sixth grades are now housed in the Junior High School building.
Since all the grades begin and leave at the same time now, we have much less strain and confusion; a much more normal situation.
When we returned in September, we started with one new regular teacher, Miss Dorothy Vaughan. She trained with Mrs. Miriam Lincoln for ten weeks last spring, and all are pleased to have her join the faculty. Mrs. Gertrude Daneau returned to teach after having been at home where she conducted a kindergarten class.
Both teachers and puils are enjoying Miss Mary Plemmons, our new special teacher in Science. Enthusiasm ran high the day Miss Plemmons arrived with a live raccoon on a chain. We have also had live squirrels and rabbits. The third graders have built bird feeders and have studied about the birds they are apt to see in them. The pupils have also studied about the trees; especially the evergreens at Christmas time. Another highlight in our science pro- gram was when Dr. William Vinal came with a Box turtle and its little ones.
The Elementary School is again participating in the 21" Class- room television programs. Grade III, Literature, Folk Music and Dancing; Grade IV, French; Grade V, French and Natural Science. Occasionally the first grades see science and phonics programs.
Our regular academic program is being carried on as usual. When the Achievement Tests were given in May, the results averaged higher than the medians required, so I feel that with the extras that are added each year, we are still holding our own and giving our children a better and richer program.
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Eyes and ears were tested as usual; physical examinations were given and booster shots were done in April. Intelligence Tests were given to Grade I in January. Mrs. Horne, Special Help teacher, gave Reading Achievement and Reading Capacity Tests whenever and wherever needed.
Registration Day and Visitation Day for incoming first graders were in May.
Field trips were enjoyed by all classes. Grade 5A went to the Museum of Science, Grade 5B to the Christian Science Maparium, all fourth grades to the Museum of Fine Arts, the third grades to the Children's Museum, the second grades to Franklin Park, and the first grades to King's Castle.
Two Book Fairs were held at the school under the auspices of the P. T. A .: all proceeds were spent for books for the school libraries.
The following programs were given for the parents: Grades 1C, "Teeny Tiny"; Grades 2A, 2B, and 2C, Thanksgiving; Grade 3A, "Sleeping Beauty"; Grade 3B, " Uncle Remus"; Grades 4A, 4B, and 4C, "The Nutcracker Suite" and Carols; Grade 4A, "The Princess Who Couldn't Cry". The fifth grades participated with the sixth grades in presenting science projects for the parents.
During National Education Week, we had Open House for two days, and Open House again for one morning at Christmas time.
At this time, teachers and pupils wish to extend their thanks to the James Library and librarians for their many helps throughout the years.
I also wish to thank all those who have helped make a happy year for the teachers, pupils and myself.
Respectfully submitted,
ELLA F. OSBORN, Principal
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REPORT OF GRACE FARRAR COLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Mr. Clifton E. Bradley
Superintendent of Schools Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Bradley :
I submit herewith the annual report of the Principal of the Grace Farrar Cole School.
On June 23, the school year 1960-61 was completed with an en- rollment of 317 pupils. At present we have an enrollment of 358 pupils; an increase of 41 pupils since the conclusion of the previous school year. The following shows the distribution of pupils in Grace Farrar Cole School as of December 22, 1961:
Grade 1 Grade 2 87 83
Grade 3 58 67 Grade 4
Grade 5 63 358
Total
At the close of the 1960-61 school year we lost two excellent teachers. Mrs. Petra Morrow, grade five, because of a business transfer to her husband, left to live in Montreal, Canada, where she is now teaching. Mr. John Croley, a graduate of Eastern Nazarene College, Wollaston, Massachusetts, has filled this vacancy and is now teaching a fifth grade class. Mr. Croley formerly taught in Hanson, Massachusetts.
Mrs. Mida Stanhope who last year taught in the Town of Hanover, is now teaching a first grade at Cole School. This po- sition was made available through the retirement of Mrs. Emmie Black, last June.
The distinction between a good educational plant and a fair one rests primarily with the teaching. We have been fortunate in the caliber of our teachers. Through classroom and building organ- ization teaching can sometimes be enhanced or its result made more efficient.
Just as children do not grow to the same extent or at the same rate of speed physically, neither do they mentally. In recognition of this fact pupils at Grace Farrar Cole School are grouped in order to facilitate the most efficient use of the teacher's time and to assure optimum learning on the part of the pupil.
In grades four and five this year, we have carried our grouping one step further than in the past. Reading in these grades has been
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divided into five levels. Children are assigned to one of these five levels, with little regard to their grade, on the basis of past read- ing achievement.
Reading for grades four and five is held from 8:45 A.M. to 9:45 A.M. each day. It is necessary that many pupils pass to an- other room and have another teacher for their reading. By utilizing our special help teacher, Mrs. Grace Alvey, we have thus cut down the number of pupils in the reading classes and are better able to handle individual differences.
All fourth and fifth grade pupils reading above sixth grade level on the basis of their past achievement, and who, in the opinion of their previous teacher can handle the program, are placed in level five, an enrichment program. These children are taught by Mrs. Alvey, with three days a week devoted to the basal reader and the development or the extention of skills and two days given to an appreciation of reading and literature.
All children reading below grade level in grades four and five receive remedial help in an attempt to bring them up to grade level. This program must be flexible and as pupil changes are recognized so too must the program given him be relative to the change. In teaching reading, or any subject, we must challenge but not frustrate. This is what we are attempting to do.
A formal homework program has this year been initiated in grades four and five. Pupils are given a one half hour assignment in one of four academic areas Monday through Thursday of each school week. These areas are arithmetic, science, social studies, and language arts.
It is not our purpose to restrict the leisure time of the child. It is important, however, that the child of today learn to efficiently organ- ize his time, be able to work out assignments on his own, and de- velop a responsibility for properly completing work assigned to him. Homework can aid in establishing the above mentioned needs.
We are most grateful for the assistance given by "Cap'n Bill" Vinal this past year. His discussion with our fifth graders of the geological history of Norwell, was most interesting and enlightening. We also appreciate the efforts of Mrs. Margaret Crowell Dumas who gave our grade five pupils a knowledge of the history of ship building on the North River.
Our science program has been greatly stimulated this year by the addition of Miss Mary Plemmons to our staff. Miss Plemmons was formerly employed by the Audubon Society and has generated
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interest in science on the part of our pupils through her many visual aids, displays, and discussions.
In our continuing efforts to promote the best possible education for each child under our guidance, we are mindful that we could not succeed without the help of many within and outside of the school system. To those we are most grateful. We welcome their continued support and assistance in our never ending quest for "excellence."
Respectfully submitted,
William W. Hays
Principal
REPORT OF THE SCHOOL PHYSICIAN
Mr. Clifton E. Bradley Superintendent of Schools Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Bradley :
My report as School Physican for 1961 is as follows:
The general health in the schools has been excellent. Physical examinations have been completed in the High School, Junior High School, and first and fourth grades in the Elementary Schools. Almost all students were cleared for the regular athletic programs and most of these were competent for participation in the inter- scholastic competitions. Health and hygiene are improving. Modern education and facilities, both in the schools and the homes, con- tribute to the improved attendance and participation in all school activities. The School Nurse, Directors of Physical Education, and teachers help in completing the examinations. They also stress health aspects to students in the regular curriculum.
Good attendance has been consistent with a minimum of con- tagion, and safety precautions have precluded many accidental injuries in the activites on school grounds.
The new physical plants will enable improved sanitary conditions for study, lunches, rest rooms, and safety. Athletic programs will continue to be limited indefinitely pending completion of the new High School facilities.
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A high percentage of prophylactic immunizations is maintained by the annual clinics provided by the Board of Health and volun- teers from the Visiting Nurse Association.
The increasing school populations present constant challenges. We hope to continue to meet them successfully with the future growth of our systems.
The School Nurse will submit statistical reports.
Respectfully submitted, Raymond G. Vinal, M. D.
School Physician
REPORT OF SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM
Each of the four schools in Norwell has a kitchen adequately equipped to serve a nutritionally-sound, hot lunch in a minimum amount of time.
The National School Lunch Program is subsidized by the Federal Government and we in turn are dedicated to make this pro- gram an education in good nutrition. Our lunch program is partially reimbursed by the State and Federal Governments ac- cording to the number of meals we serve daily with milk; also for each bottle of milk sold separately for a child's consumption.
To meet the requirements of the National School Lunch Program the Type A lunch must contain as a minimum 1/2 pint fluid whole milk, 2 oz. of protein-rich food such as lean meat, poultry, fish, cheese, 1 egg or 1/2 cup cooked dry beans or 4 Tbsp. peanut butter, plus 3/4 cup fruit or vegetable, one slice of bread plus 2 tsp. butter. We are somewhat limited by the amount of time we have for prepa- ration and by the likes and dislikes of our customers. However, we are constantly trying to add variety and make this definitely a part of their education.
The cooperation from the School Committee, the Superintendent, the Principals and the teachers in the several schools is greatly ap- preciated and most encouraging and helpful to the women in the kitchens who are constantly working for the best interest of your children's present and future health.
Hazel Robbins
Cafeteria Supervisor
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REPORT OF ADULT HOMEMAKING AND CRAFTS PROGRAM
Mr. Clifton E. Bradley Superintendent of Schools Norwell, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Bradley,
Board of Trustees for Adult Homemaking and Crafts, Norwell : Mr. George H. Whitcher, Jr., Mrs. Nellie L. Sparrell, Dr. William G. Vinal, Mr. Fletcher S. Boig, Mr. John B. Arnold.
Advisory Committee: Mrs. Edward Cunningham, Mrs. James Pollack, Mrs. John Arnold.
Director: Mr. Frederick A. Small
Faculty : Mrs. Frederick Bradford
Classes in Beginning and Advanced Sewing began at the Norwell Junior High School building October 17, 1961. Classes will continue for twenty sessions through March 13, 1962.
Enrollments were sufficient to initiate for the school year 1961-62 the sewing classes indicated.
It is hoped that the opportunity for wider choice in class offerings may exist another year. Suggestions from citizens in reference to a program for 1962-63 will be appreciated.
Respectfully submitted, Frederick A. Small, Director,
Adult Homemaking and Crafts Program
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REPORT OF THE REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL COMMITTEE TO MEMBER TOWNS
The construction of the vocational high school building is pro- ceeding on schedule. It is hoped that the weather will permit pouring of the roof soon, so that inside work can proceed during cold and bad weather. There is no indication at the present time that the building will not be ready for occupancy in September, 1962.
Some items of equipment have been obtained from the Department of Defense Machinery Reserve. These items have a value of about $50,000.00. Bids for other equipment items will be advertised as soon as the exact nature of these items and the surplus property items are known.
Applications for Director are now being reviewed and interviews will be held soon. It is hoped that an appointment will be made before March. As soon as the Director assumes his duties, pupils applications for admission and applications for instructorships will be processed. At the present time there are indications that the pupils applications will exceed the facilities in some courses.
Course descriptions and applications have been sent to the school departments of all member towns and some surrounding towns. Treasurer's Report for the year ending December 31, 1961 and the estimated budget for the year 1962 are in the hands of member town officials.
Respectfully Submitted, Valentine F. Harrington, Chairman REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE
CHARLES F. HOHMAN, Abington HENRY B. PERRY, Cohasset VALENTINE F. HARRINGTON, Hanover JOHN O'L. EDMONDS, Norwell ALBERT E. SULLIVAN, Rockland NELS H. SANDBERG, Scituate
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SOUTH SHORE REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT TREASURER'S REPORT
In accordance with Section XII of the South Shore Regional School District agreement signed January 6, 1960, I submit herewith details of the 1960 and 1961 financial transactions of the School District. This report covers a period from October 1, 1960 thru December 31, 1961 and presents details with respect to 1960 and 1961 estimated expenditures; apportionment of estimated expenditures to member towns; cash receipts and disbursements; balance sheet and statement of outstanding debt.
Respectfully submitted, JOHN A. ASHTON
Treasurer
SOUTH SHORE REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 1960 BUDGET
General Control
Salary
$ 500.00 500.00
Expenses
$ 1,000.00
Capital Outlay
General - District Office Equipment 2,200.00
School Construction :
Site and Planning Costs 23,800.00
26,000.00
Total 1960 Estimated Expenditures
$27,000.00
1961 BUDGET
General Control Salary Expenses
$2,000.00 3,250.00
$ 5,250.00
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Capital Outlay School Construction : Site and Planning Costs
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