USA > Massachusetts > Middlesex County > Tewksbury > Town of Tewksbury annual report 1950-1954 > Part 45
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139
REPORT OF THE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
To the Superintendent of Schools, Town of Tewksbury:
I am happy to present to you at this time my eighth annual report as Principal of the Tewksbury High School.
For the past five years the annex has housed all eighth graders, but, in view of the crowded conditions on the opening day of school in September, it was necessary to transfer all but forty of these students to the Foster School. Grades 9 through 12 revealed a record enrollment of 322, which was 34 more than reported the first day of school the preceding year. With an anticipated enrollment of 395 in the four upper grades next fall, the school's housing facilities will be taxed to the limit. It is felt that by using every available room in the building, the school's total enrollment can be accommodated for one more school year. However, to provide adequate space for the number of students expected the following year is problematical.
Graduation 1954
On June 12, 1954, our nineteenth Annual Commencement Exercises were held in the auditorium. Forty-six seniors received their diplomas at that time.
Winners of the various Honor Awards at these exercises were the following named graduates:
The Larrabee Scholarship Medals
Highest Ranking Girl Shirley O'Connell
Highest Ranking Boy Robert Carey
The Melvin Rogers Athletic Medals
Football
Walter Golen
Baseball Thomas Hickey
The PTA Basketball Medals
Outstanding Senior Girl Alice Farrell
Outstanding Senior Boy Robert McPherson
The PTA Citizenship Medal Jeanne McGrath
The Balfour Award for Loyalty, Scholarship, and Achievement Robert Carey
The DAR Good Citizenship Certificate Shirley O'Connell
The PTA Nurse's Training Scholarship Barbara Daley
The PTA Teacher Training Scholarship Peggy Myhr
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The Valedictory was rendered by Miss Shirley O'Connell; the Salutatorian's address was rendered by Miss Nancy Maclaren.
After brief remarks by Mr. Thomas L. Rivard, our Superinten- dent of Schools, and School Committee member Mr. John Murphy, Jr., the members of the graduating class received diplomas from Mrs. Loella Dewing, Chairman of the School Committee.
It is interesting to note that 32.6% of this graduating class are continuing their formal education at some university or college, and 8 members are serving in some branch of the armed services.
Faculty Changes
Mrs. Mary Walsh, who formerly taught at Sacred Heart Ącad- emy in Newtonville, has replaced Miss Margaret Keith as director of girls Physical Education. Miss Keith resigned to accept a similar position in Newark, New Jersey. Mr. William Campbell, a graduate of Suffolk University was appointed to relieve the over-crowding of our mathematics and science classes. Mrs. Ruth O'Connor, a graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in languages, was employed to alleviate the congestion in our English and French classes. For the past four years, Mrs. O'Connor had taught at Alvirne High School in Hudson, New Hampshire. Mr. Henry Mroz was transferred from the Foster School to handle our eighth grade division and teach social sciences at the senior High School level.
Curriculum Revision
In revising our very extensive curriculum, six new subjects have been added this year. These subjects are as follows: Review Arithmetic, Solid Geometry, Trigonometry, Problems in Democracy, General Physics, and Health. Prior to the adoption of these subjects, occupational opportunities, particular needs of the community, the functioning of preparation for college, the achievement of students according to standardized tests, and other factors had been given much consideration. This improvement in our curriculum is a great step in helping to meet the needs of our pupils in this constantly changing civilization of ours.
Acknowledgements
Special acknowledgement is due the Tewksbury P. T. A. for its donations of two scholarships amounting to $300. This year's scholarships were instrumental in furthering the education of one student in the field of teaching and the other in the field of nursing. Since the adoption of these scholarships, many girl graduates have been able to enter their chosen fields. Had it not been for these scholarships, many would have terminated their formal education the day of graduation.
The Tewksbury Boosters Club has met regularly at the homes
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of various members. During the year, it sponsored banquets for both the football and basketball squads. Much credit is due, not only to the organization, but especially to Mr. and Mrs. George Lawlor for their unselfish and untiring efforts in sponsoring many activities to make these affairs so successful.
The Tewksbury Police Department has furnished adequate police protection at all our various extra-curricular activities and at graduation. The handling of our spectators, parking problems, and traffic have been worthy of praise.
The Tewksbury Fire Department has been most cooperative in maintaining the athletic field during the dry spell, replacing the halyard on our flag pole, and accomplishing many other similar kinds of deeds.
The school is very grateful for the cooperation it has received from these organizations.
School Lunch
During the year, 35,769 meals and 5,734 extra bottles of milk were served to our students. Starting in September, the selections of the various meals have been in keeping with a survey conducted by the Student Council during the spring term. This survey was taken as an attempt to determine the meals preferred by the majority of the students. Furthermore, this council was instru- mental in obtaining trays as an aid in helping pupils to facilitate the handling of food after being served. The over-all program con- tinues to show its value and is being conducted in a most satisfactory manner.
Redecorating
The interior of our school has been made much more attractive by repainting all classrooms, the teachers' room, and the corridor of the main building. At the present time, both the main building and the annex appear to be nearly in their original state. This beautiful environment has a definite influence on the over-all efficiency of our organization.
Extra Curricular Activities
Our extra curricular activities continue to play an important part in our program. Although not of championship calibre, our athletic teams continue to display a fine brand of team play, perserverance, and good sportsmanship.
In rendering much needed assistance, both Mr. Oliver and Mr. Andronikos have relieved Coach Hazel of many of his coaching burdens. Through their efforts, these two very capable assistants, in addition to helping develop our varsity players, have developed a more extensive junior varsity and junior high school athletic program. Boys, not able to qualify for the varsity squad now have
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an opportunity to develop attitudes and skills not offered previously. Participation in some form of physical exercise by 100% of our student body is our ultimate goal.
The physical education and athletic program planned by Mrs. Walsh provide for girls the usual intramural contests, and some games with other schools.
During the spring, our combined Glee Club and Orchestra presented a concert in the auditorium. Edward Friend, Carol Sherwood, Leo Hunt, Madeline Buchanan, Nancy Maclaren, and Robert Barlow performed in their specialties. This concert was under the direction of our music supervisor, Mr. Edgar Beal.
Mr. Clifton Symonds, our new instrumental music director, has been helpful in organizing a school band and a group of baton twirlers. Not only were we able to have a band on the field at our football games for the first time in the school's history, but a group of baton twirlers and majorettes made their presence felt by a presentation of intricate routines at our last two football games. Plans are being made for this group to perform during the halves of our basketball games this winter.
At the present time our Dramatics Club is rehearsing for the play entitled "Growing Pains." This play, under the direction of Miss Rita Sullivan, will be presented in January.
Guidance
In September, the School Committee made it possible for us to expand our guidance program. Mr. Joseph Bastable, a former guidance director at Pitsfield High School in Pittsfield, New Hamp- shire, was elected on a full-time basis to direct the guidance of our students. Individual conferences are planned for all seniors and juniors, and opportunities are provided for pupils in lower classes to receive assistance with social and academic problems.
The Lowell office of the Massachusetts Employment Service administered a battery of tests without charge to the seniors and all other students contemplating the termination of their education in the near future. These tests were voluntary and were designed to reveal vocational aptitudes. The Boston University Vocational Battery was offered again this year to new students, and all members of the junior class. Approximately 90 students took these various tests.
The director of guidance has enjoyed fine cooperation from pupils, parents, faculty, college representatives, employers, and the Massachusetts Employment Service. Our guidance program, having been placed on a fulltime scale, appears to be functioning very well.
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Scholarships
At the present time, information is available regarding scholar- ships offered at Tufts College, Colby College, Rhode Island School of Design, Williams College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Westbrook Junior College, Radcliffe, Massachusetts General Hos- pital School of Nursing, New England Textile Colleges, Westing- house, Pierce Secretarial School, and many others.
The provisions of the two scholarships offered by the Tewks- bury Parent Teachers' Association are also accessible. To date, only a few have applied for any of the above scholarships. All students planning to continue their education are not only en- couraged, but are induced to avail themselves of these opportunities.
Conclusion
I wish to thank you, Mr. Rivard, for your keen interest in our problems, and for your valuable suggestions. I also wish to express my appreciation to the members of the School Board, and to the teachers for their loyal support and cooperation. It would be an impossible task to mention individually the teachers, parents, citizens, and groups who have contributed to the welfare of the high school. However, you may rest assured that we, who are engaged in the education of the youth of Tewksbury, are deeply appreciative of your efforts.
Respectfully submitted, LAWRENCE R. McGOWAN Principal
144
REPORT OF PRINCIPAL OF NORTH STREET AND FOSTER SCHOOLS
To the Superintendent of Schools, Town of Tewksbury:
When giving consideration to an annual report there is always a danger of becoming verbose in attempting to do justice to the many facets of our educational endeavors. To discuss even briefly each of the many phases of the program at the North Street School and the Foster School would make this report much too long and would certainly overburden the Town Report. Therefore, attention will be directed to a few areas of pertinent interest at this time.
The most important single factor affecting the educational program is the nearly unprecedented growth of the Town. The population of Tewksbury has doubled during the slightly more than seven years of my service. The resultant increase in pupil enrollment has operated to continually tax our facilities. It has caused an ever-increasing load per teacher. Where recommenda- tions call for a first grade class of about 25 pupils, our three classes this year are 48, 48, and 49. Under such circumstances it is not possible for a teacher to do justice to the instructional program. Large classes mean that the amount of individual pupil help is held to a minimum. For some of the less mature pupils it means a repetition of the grade for want of the individual attention which would otherwise assure their success. Despite the extra efforts of conscientious teachers, pupils in these overcrowded classrooms must of necessity participate in a limited instructional program which will in many cases serve as a handicap throughout their careers.
Two other effects of the rapidly increasing pupil enrollment may be considered here. First, it has been necessary to schedule three lunch shifts in order to accomodate all those desirous of being served. This restricts the use of the multi-purpose room for two and one half hours in the middle of the school day. As a result the time available for physical education classes is reduced. Re- stricted even more are assembly programs. Since it is not possible to fit in three performances either preceding or following the lunch hours, it is usually not possible to hold a "live program" for all the school. Because of scheduling difficulties it is often necessary to cancel regular classes which use the multi-purpose room. Any future school construction should give consideration to the advan- tages of a separate cafeteria.
A second effect may result in a change in the concept of the function of the Special Teachers. In order to meet all of the pupils and teachers on a regular basis, it has been necessary to
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schedule shorter classes at less frequent intervals. It is becoming evident that a further reduction in the time allotment could result in a marked decrease in the effectiveness of the present program in Art and Music. Consequently, a reconsideration of the purposes and activities of these special programs is essential. An increase in personnel would allow the continuance of the programs as presently constituted. A further possibility would be the considera- tion of the Special Teachers as consultants to work through the regular classroom teachers and to serve as teachers of teachers as well as of pupils.
Listed below are some recommendations, suggested as a basis for action in planning for the continued improvement of the educa- tional offering to the children of Tewksbury. Some of these we have previously discussed informally with a view to future consideration.
1. The Spring registration of new pupils should be made more comprehensive. There is a need for orientation of both parents and children as to what is to be expected. A day and evening program explaining the procedures and prob- lems affecting pupil, parent, and teacher in the initial school experience would seem to be of value. Discussions, the use of handbooks and pamphlets, and a film such as "Skippy and the 3 R's" could be very helpful.
2. In order that the public may better understand the schools, a school report should be published. This should not dupli- cate material which customarily appears in the Town Report. Rather, it should be concerned with the aims and objectives of the curriculum together with a discussion of methods and procedures.
3. The school entrance age should be raised to five years and nine months from the present five years and six months. Recent research studies of the effects of physical and mental maturity upon school progress have stated that those children who have reached the age of six have a much better chance of succeeding in school than those who are only five and one half years old. To be considered also is the fact that few of the children have kindergarten experience which would help in adjusting to school life.
4. Groups should be organized for a continuing study of the curriculum. Curriculum reorganization on the basis of the research and best practice is an essential prerequisite to an improved educational program.
5. The services of a clerk should be provided for the elemen- tary schools. The influx of new pupils and activities has brought with it an increasing load of administrative detail. Much of this must be carried on during the regular school
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day rather than after hours. Time for supervision and planning is being lost to the details of operating the school facilities. It seems educationally and economically unsound to take teaching time for activities which may be handled as competently by a clerk.
The past year has been one of continuing growth for both teachers and pupils. Despite the problems imposed by over- crowded classrooms there has been no relaxing of standards. The staff has given the extra time and effort needed to try to overcome these difficulties and to give to the pupils in their care the best possible education under the circumstances. It would certainly be remiss not to take this opportunity to commend to you and to the townspeople a loyal, hardworking staff.
The focal point of public school education is the interaction of pupil and teacher. The teacher is the most important entity in the educational environment of the child in school. The remainder of the educational environment, whether it be a building, a book, a library, or the entire community, has no purpose in being except as it contributes in some way toward increasing the effectiveness of this fundamental relationship. It is the responsibility of all concerned to make available and bring to bear every possible material and method which will enrich the educational environment and will enable the pupil and the teacher to extract from this environment all that it has to offer. In all of our efforts we must be aware that our position is that of a partner cooperating with the pupil and the teacher and with all others engaged in helping every child to the fullest realization of his individual potentialities for successful living.
EVERETT G. THISTLE
147
REPORT OF PRINCIPAL OF SHAWSHEEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
To the Superintendent of Schools of the Town of Tewksbury:
I am pleased to submit my first annual report as Principal of the Shawsheen Elementary School.
The growth in population in Tewksbury has been directly reflected in the constantly increasing enrollment in the Shawsheen School. Within a period of four months the number of students has jumped from 489 to 550 which has resulted in a heavy pupil load per teacher. Despite this condition, the teachers are successfully providing for the needs of the individual children.
Various activities have been initiated by the teachers and children on the one hand, and by the teachers and parents on the other.
A bi-monthly newspaper, published by the children of the fifth grades was issued for the first time in November.
School assemblies, involving mainly the children in the three upper grades, have given them the opportunity to express them- selves before an audience as well as to derive the benefits from participating in planning programs.
A school safety patrol, consisting of fifth grades, has aided the teachers and bus drivers in maintaining proper supervision of the younger children.
In the early part of the school year, a new unit of the Parent . Teacher Association was formed by the parents of the Shawsheen School children. The enthusiasm of the parents was immediately revealed by the large membership and attendance at meetings.
It is quite evident that all the personnel involved directly or indirectly with the education and welfare of the Shawsheen School children are sincerely attempting to provide the maxima conditions under which learning and training for good citizenship can take place.
Respectfully submitted, HAROLD HERSHFIELD Principal
148
REPORT OF HOUSEHOLD ARTS INSTRUCTOR
To the Superintendent of Schools of the Town of Tewksbury:
I am pleased to submit my second annual report as Household Arts Instructor at Tewksbury High School. As is the policy in vocationally aided schools, the state course of study is followed which includes units in foods - planning, preparation, serving and nutrition; clothing-selection, construction and care, interior déco- ration; child care; family relationships; textiles; home management; and good grooming. In association with class work, film strips, guest speakers, exhibits, and field trips are enjoyed. The students are required to complete one home project for each class unit taught.
Inasmuch as the three eighth grades have not been at the High School this year, the introductory course in homemaking has been temporarily discontinued. It is hoped that we may soon find a suitable plan to include instruction in cooking and sewing for them.
Consumer Education is an elective subject for upper classes, both boys and girls.
The Home Economics room is very satisfactorily equipped. The students appreciate efficient facilities made possible by the towns- people and our state aided program. It is my sincere hope that many students will avail themselves for the instruction in all phases of homemaking at some time during their high school education. It is truly helpful for every day living regardless of the type of course and vocation selected.
I wish to express to the School Committee; to Mr. Rivard, my superintendent; and Mr. McGowan, our Headmaster; my deep appreciation for their interest and effort in helping me carry out my duties.
Respectfully submitted,
EMILY L. DOUCETTE
149
REPORT OF ART SUPERVISOR
To the Superintendent of Schools, Town of Tewksbury
The aim of the art program is to encourage and develop the creative ability of the children and to integrate art with the other subjects in the school program as a practical and graphic means of expression.
The full time art program is divided among the schools in pro- portion to the number of classes. Because of the increase in enroll- ment, however, it is no longer possible for the art supervisor to give a lesson in each room weekly. Therefor, many of the classes must be alternated. In most cases grades four to eight are visited every other week. Every attempt is made to visit the first three grades weekly, as it is in these grades that good art habits are formed. Also, it is more practical to leave lessons to be completed in the upper grades.
At the high school there is an elective art class which meets once a week for forty-five minutes. This class does not meet the highest possible standards for a high school group. The room is not suitable, and there is not adequate space for storing materials efficiently. Also the periods are short and too far apart for the type of art work usually found in an elective art class of high school level.
The display cases at the North Street and Shawsheen Schools give excellent opportunities for displaying work done by the children. These exhibitions stimulate children and teachers alike. The addition of wall-length cork bulletin boards at the Foster School would give another such opportunity.
The supply of art materials throughout the system is generally very good. Materials commonly used include crayon, water-color paints, poster paints, finger paints, colored construction paper and clay. These are available to all the classes.
No art program can be successful without the cooperation of the teachers and principals in the school. It is a pleasure to work with such interested and cooperative teachers and helpful princi- pals as are in the Tewksbury schools.
Respectfully submitted,
ROBERTA THRESCHER
150
REPORT OF THE VOCAL MUSIC PROGRAM
To the Superintendent of Schools of the Town of Tewksbury:
The vocal music in the public schools has progressed consider- ably from where we began a year ago this fall. By progress I mean that the pupils respond more readily to music and are eager to participate. In addition to regular classroom music which is the teaching and singing of songs, note-reading and rhythmic response, classes often go to the piano and sing the learned songs with accompaniment. The need for a music room or a regular place to go for mass singing and other music activity is becoming more and more acute. For example, there is one piano for a school of five hundred or more pupils. This piano is in the hall where other events must take place. There is no other place for the lunch to be served or for the physical education program to be had, but there is also no other place for groups, clubs, or music classes to go for rehearsals.
If the music is confined to the classroom only, results cannot be expected that could be if a music room or a hall with a piano in it were available for daily use. Nevertheless, I am aware of the fact that music rooms, and additional space in halls with pianos ready for use cost money. A good substitute for this growing music program would be a portable piano, a small one, which could be used from room to room. It is actually essential to any permanent music plan.
A glee club has been organized of its own free will at the Foster School and has adequately represented itself. This offers a goal for the more talented in singing and contributes to the general uplift of all music in the building.
At the high school there is a well-organized chorus of 65 voices and they rehearse twice each week. In the spring they will give their annual concert.
Every pupil in the system is given the opportunity to partici- pate in some kind of music. If he does and finds the enjoyment in music that he should, he will learn how much it can mean to him as he grows older.
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