USA > Massachusetts > Hampshire County > Westhampton > Town of Westhampton annual report 1955 > Part 2
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The second change was the decision to send our seventh and eighth grade pupils to the Junior High School at Wil- liamsburg. In addition to their regular subjects, they have the use of the new cafeteria and the new gymnasium. This ar- rangement, whereby they become a part of a larger school, will make their transition to the Senior High School much easier for them. It also relieves overcrowding at the Center School building.
A third step in improving the opportunities in the Center School was the reorganization of the program so that only two grades were assigned to each teacher. The former plan had been to give three grades to the principal, three to the inter- mediate teacher, and the first two grades to the primary teacher. As the enrollment increased, it became more difficult for our teachers to provide for the needs of three grades in the two upper rooms. It was a decided advantage to make this change.
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The addition of the Audubon Lectures to our program was a fourth step in improving the work of the school. These lectures give added impetus to the study of natural science, and give specific information about bird life in our area.
When schools closed in June, there were several changes in our teaching force. Mr. Paul Rosenberg resigned as prin- cipal to accept a position in Fairlawn, N. J. Since he had nearly completed his work for a master's degree at the Uni- versity of Massachusetts, he wished to be near Columbia so that he could begin study for his doctor's degree at their teachers college. Mrs. Evelyn Parsons transferred to the Southampton School from grades 3, 4, and 5. Mrs. Hazel Salls was appointed to full time work in art in the Northampton Schools. Miss Susan Lawrence, who had taught physical edu- cation, felt that she had to have a full time position as soon as she completed her master's degree in June and returned to Virginia. These teachers had given excellent service and it was with regret that their resignations were accepted.
To fill these vacancies, the following teachers were elected: Mr. Richard Towse of Sturbridge, a graduate of Springfield College in 1955, was assigned to serve as principal and teach grades 5 and 6. He also teaches the physical education. Mrs. Philip Norris who is a graduate of Framingham Teachers College was appointed to teach grades 3 and 4. In addition to the above teachers, Miss Rachel Bridgman continued as our primary teacher. These teachers are well trained for their work and are extending every effort to give our children the best training possible.
The health department has been under the direction of Dr. C. Keith Wilbur as school physician, Dr. Abel Ross as school dentist, and Mrs. Ruth S. Hover as school nurse. It was with sincere regret that we learned of the resignation of Mrs. Hover in June. She had been a most excellent school nurse. Mrs. Eunice Cernak of Westhampton who trained at Cooley- Dickinson Hospital and is a registered nurse was appointed
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school nurse in September 1955. This department has cared for and protected the good health of our children.
At the beginning of the school year in September, we had 18 pupils in Northampton High School, one in Smith's School, and 16 in Williamsburg Junior High School, for a total of 35 secondary pupils. Nearly all of these pupils are making good progress in the courses they have selected.
The School Committee furnishes transportation for 56 elementary children locally and for 35 students who attend out-of-town high schools. Those who do this work have done excellently. No accident has occured and the children have been carried safely. Our State reimbursement on this account was $6,055.00 in 1955.
Mr. Stanley Bartlett has maintained a clean and satis- factory school building during the year. His work as custodian is greatly appreciated.
The provisions of the State and local communities for universal free education have made America one of the out- standing and most progressive nations of the world. May our schools become more and more a treasure house for youth, a prized possession of our communities, and a safeguard to our democratic way of life.
In closing, I wish to thank our principal, the teachers and all others for the splendid work they have done for our children. Their fine work is highly commended.
Our School Committee has been a pleasure to work with. To the members, I extend my sincere thanks for their thought- ful help during 1955.
Respectfully submitted,
LUCIUS A. MERRITT Superintendent of Schools
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REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL
Since the beginning of school in September, the Center School has become a closely knit, smoothly functioning unit of teachers, supervisors, and students aiming toward academic improvement and social adjustment. Our program is directed toward creating "the whole man", or, increasing the stature of spirit, mind, and body, a concept which includes not only achieving a firm grasp on fundamental skills, but also direct- ing interests, habits, and attitudes which will benefit the com- munity as well as the child. A moderate air of informality and mutual respect between teacher and student are the special media through which our program works.
Music and penmanship are directed by supervisors in those fields who visit the classes regularly. The program for the upper classes has been enriched by interesting and in- formative lectures by Mrs. Claridge of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. The lively discussions and healthy interest in nature study give children a much better appreciation for the necessity of conservation as well as for helpful rather than destructive pastimes here in Westhampton during their leisure hours.
The physical education program struggles along with in- adequate equipment, and not at all when the weather is bad, but those times any activities are possible, the children have shown much interest and good ability in learning coordinated skills of mind and body. Group participation rather than individual achievement is stressed and good sportsmanship the only skill needed to enjoy the classes. A large playroom or gymnasium would make it possible to carry on a physical education program that would do justice to the attempt to create "the whole man" in our school.
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For the first time in many years a temporary solution to the problem of overcrowded conditions at the school was instituted whereby only grades one through six are attending school here in town, the others travelling to Williamsburg and Northampton by bus. This has left us with a present enroll- ment of sixty-seven which at least allows for adequate aisle space and no longer involves a fire hazard. Repairs on the cellar and ventilation of the toilets have been made but sanitary facilities are still not up to modern standards for the large number of children using them. When the weather is such that children cannot play in the school yard, the crowded conditions at recess and lunch time are difficult. It is the hope of administrators, teachers and students that these physical deficiencies are improved in the very near future.
RICHARD M. TOWSE
Principal
Westhampton Center School
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL NURSE
JANUARY 1, 1955 to SEPTEMBER 1, 1955
I herewith submit my report of the health program at the Westhampton Center School for the year ending Septem- ber 1, 1955.
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur is the school physician.
During the winter months there were few reported cases of communicable diseases, a winter with most absences due to virus infections and upper respiratory infections.
In the early spring much interest was being shown nation- ally and locally regarding the Salk vaccine. This vaccine was developed to be given in a few doses to reduce the threat and severity of poliomyelitis. The State of Massachusetts declared to provide by consent of parents to give vaccine to children in grades one and two. The parents in Westhampton almost unanimously approved. In May by consent of the Chairman of the Board of Health, Mr. Gett, I went to Boston and collected our allotment of vaccine which was given on May 27, 1955, to 18 children. Of the 9 remaining who were eligible, 3 had declined and 6 had upper respiratory infections and were unable to receive vaccine. The vaccine was given by Dr. C. Keith Wilbur. The second dose was not forthcoming from the State as it was declared too late in the season to be given. In June all children were weighed and measured.
Linda Wooding attended Camp Hodgkins during the month of August with a good report of satisfactory gain.
My resignation to the School Committee was to be effec- tive September 1, 1955.
Respectfully submitted,
RUTH S. HOVER, R. N.
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL NURSE
SEPTEMBER 1, 1955 to DECEMBER 31, 1955
In September, the students were examined by Dr. Wilbur. The parents were notified of defects whenever necessary. Dr. Ross examined for dental caries. In October hearing tests were given.
There were many children with upper respiratory infec- tions at the time of physicals. Dr. Wilbur stated the same was true in other vicinities. Only two cases of measles have been reported, although there are many cases in neighboring towns and city.
I would like to thank the parents and teachers for their cooperation in all health matters and also express appreciation to Mr. Stanley Bartlett who is doing such a fine job in keep- ing the school clean.
Respectfully submitted,
EUNICE H. CERNAK School Nurse
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FINANCIAL STATEMENT EXPENDITURE
Appropriation
Expended in 1955
$31,980.00 30,032.55
Balance
$1,947.45
Administration
L. A. Merritt, Salary
$900.00
L. A. Merritt, Expenses
75.00
Ruth S. Hover, Census
15.00
Mrs. Jeanette O'Neill, Secretary
53.00
$1,043.00
Instruction
Teachers' Salaries :
Paul Rosenberg
$1,980.00
Richard Towse
1,320.00
Evelyn Parsons
1,866.72
Rachel Bridgman
2,866.72
Patricia Norris
973.36
Esther Norris, Music
200.00
Hazel Salls, Art
90.00
Hazel Salls, Travel
50.00
Susan Lawrence, Physical Education
70.00
Susan Lawrence, Travel
35.00
Rinehart Handwriting System
200.00
Mass. Audubon Society
150.00
J. Walter Richard
166.64
J. Walter Richard, Travel
25.00
Marion Mascho, Sub.
64.00
Books Supplies
10,057.44
273.34
176.68
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Maintenance
Janitor's Salary
$975.04
Fuel
788.00
Operating Expenses
394.51
Repairs and Replacements
292.44
2,449.99
General
Health:
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur
$100.00
Ruth S. Hover, R. N.
135.93
Dr. Abel Ross
10.00
Medical Supplies
9.62
255.55
Transportation :
Elementary-W. Witherell
$4,171.46
High and Vocational-W. Witherell 4,122.00
8,293.46
Tuition :
Easthampton School Dept. Adult Education $5.40
High School
Town of Williamsburg
984.00
City of Northampton
6,239.69
Vocational
Smith's School
175.65
7,404.74
Contingent
36.35
Outlay
42.00
Total Expenses for Schools for 1955
$30,032.55
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RECEIPTS
Funds Received in 1955 toward School Expenses:
Mass. School Fund, Chap. 70 $7,190.22 Mass. School Fund, Chap. 71 Transportation 6,055.00
Vocational Education
Tuition
90.65
Transportation 83.00
Superintendent's Salary and Travel 456.23
13,875.10
Net Cost of Maintaining Schools for 1955 from Local Taxation
$16,157.45
WESTHAMPTON SCHOOL DEPARTMENT BUDGET
Budget 1955 $1,100.00
Spent 1955
Budget 1956 $1,100.00
Administration
Instruction
Teachers' Salaries
11,000.00
10,057.44
11,500.00
Books
300.00
273.34
300.00
Supplies
400.00
176.68
300.00
Maintenance
Janitor's Salary
1,050.00
975.04
1,100.00
Fuel
700.00
788.00
700.00
Operating Expense
350.00
394.51
400.00
Repairs and
Replacements
1,700.00
292.44
2,000.00
General
Health
350.00
255.55
350.00
Trans .- High & Voc.
2,800.00
4,171.46
6,300.00
Trans .- Elem.
4,200.00
4,122.00
4,200.00
Tuition-High
6,780.00
7,229.09
9,000.00
Tuition-Voc.
500.00
175.65
500.00
$1,043.00
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Contingent
500.00
36.35
500.00
Outlay
250.00
42.00
250.00
$31,980.00
$30,032.55
$38,500.00
REPORT OF THE WELL CHILD CLINIC
The Well Child Conference was held in the Westhampton Town Hall on Wednesday, June 15, 1955.
The staff was as follows:
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur
Physician
Dr. Abel Ross Dentist
Mrs. Irene Delisle Registrar
Mrs. Ruth Hover Nurse
There were 28 children examined of which 19 were new cases. Five were vaccinated.
The dental examination showed 8 cases with caries, 20 cases free of caries.
Mrs. Elgie Challet and Mrs. Paul Omasta served luncheon to the staff in the Church Parlors.
THE DIPHTHERIA CLINIC
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur started this clinic in April. All were given D. P. T.
1 Case-3 Doses 14 Cases-Boosters
RUTH S. HOVER, R. N.
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REPORT OF THE CENTER CEMETERY
Perhaps the most outstanding accomplishment of the year was the expansion of the cemetery by the purchase of adjoining land to the south of approximately one and one-half acres. There are now only seventeen lots left in the first addition to the original cemetery known as the New Part.
A rotary mower was purchased last winter. A special three wheel carriage was designed to trim close to monuments and the engine from the rotary mower was attached. The re- sulting power trimmer works wonderfully well and eliminates much hand trimming and backache. Thus by bolting the engine to either the trimmer or the rotary mower it serves the double duty of knocking down grass the ordinary mower passes over untouched or as a power sickle.
Permanent damage to grass by drought last summer was much more severe than at any time in my experience. A great deal of reseeding may eventually have to be done.
A surprising total of 5691/2 hours was spent on cemetery work due mainly to a huge regrading project. My goal is to give the cemetery a uniform rolling contour instead of the abrupt humps and hollows now existing in the old part of the cemetery.
Three dozen flags were purchased to replace the faded ones that have seen at least ten years service.
There were thirteen burials this year.
Repairs were made to three breaks in the water pipe because of a plugged drain hole at the shut-off valve.
A load of small stone was spread over the deep ruts of the roadway and traffic has packed it down to a more durable surface.
Sixteen locust posts were also given to the cemetery by Charles Burt.
STANLEY BARTLETT Caretaker
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REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
I hereby present the seventh annual report of the West- hampton Fire Department.
The department answered eight fire calls and twelve service calls. Of these fire calls, five were grass fires, two chimney fires, and one false alarm with thirteen men respond- ing. Of the service calls, two were chimney fires, three grass fires, one car fire, one false alarm, four lots burned over, and one cellar pumped out. A total of 32 fire extinguishers were serviced and recharged.
The following permits were issued: Fire Permits, 114; Fuel Oil, 14; Range Oil, 4; L. P. Gas, 6.
Two members resigned-Rev. Robert Young and Joseph Sarafin.
The Firemen's Association received $35.00 during the year. A Dodge pick-up truck was donated to the department and has been a big help.
The volunteer firemen have met regularly each month and bi-monthly during the summer months when drill periods were held.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the towns- people for their cooperation in calling for a fire permit before burning, and for aid at fires.
Respectfully submitted,
JAMES HICKEY Fire Chief
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REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR OF BUILDINGS
Building Permits Issued in 1955:
#88 Murray and Alice C. Clapp
Garage
#89 Morris and Estelle Frary Garage
#90 Theodore and Maria Derouin Dwelling
#91 John and Rita Schumann Dwelling
#92 Ernest A. Delisle
Retail Hardware Store
#93 James and Bette McGill
Dwelling
#94 Raymond Sarafin Dwelling
#95 Gilbert M. Wright Addition
#96 Freeman Scott
Dwelling
#97 Quentin Browne
Addition
#98 Dwight S. Church, Sr.
Garage
#99 Charles R. Burt
Tool Shed
#100 Mary and Walter Challet
Addition
#101 Donald C. Barrett
Dwelling
#102 David G. Clapp
Silo
#103 Alfred C. Blakesley
Addition
#104 Howard I. Mann
Addition
#105 American Telephone & Telegraph Co.
Telephone Repeater Building
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ARTICLES OF THE TOWN WARRANT
TOWN MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 5, 1956 Ten A. M .- Prompt
Article 1. To hear and act on all reports presented at said meeting.
Article 2. To hear and act on the report of the com- mittee appointed at the last annual meeting to study salaries of town officers and report at this meeting.
Article 3. To choose all necessary officers to serve the ensuing year.
Article 4. To see if the Town will vote to leave the care of the highways in charge of the Selectmen.
Article 5. To vote in compliance with Section 108, Chap- ter 41, General Laws, which requires that salaries of elected officers be fixed by vote of the Town.
Article 6. To raise and appropriate such sums of money as may be necessary to defray Town charges the ensuing year.
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Article 7. To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Selectmen, to bor- row money from time to time in anticipation of the revenue of the financial year beginning January 1, 1956, and to issue a note or notes therefor, payable within one year, and to renew any note or notes as may be given for a period less than one year in accordance with Section 17, Chapter 44, General Laws.
Article 8. To see if the Town will vote to raise and ap- propriate or transfer from unappropriated available funds in the treasury, a sum of money for Chapter 81 and Chapter 90 Highways, or take any action in relation thereto.
Article 9. To see if the Town will raise and appropriate $1,000.00 to cover the 1956 note on the Town Hall and $180.00 for the interest on the same.
Article 10. To see if the Town will vote one week vaca- tion with pay (forty-eight hours) to permanent employees.
Article 11. To see if the Town will raise and appropriate a sum of money for the observance of Memorial Day.
Article 12. To see if the Town will vote to raise and ap- propriate $150.00 for Gypsy Moth.
Article 13. To see if the Town will vote to raise and ap- propriate $150.00 for Dutch Elm Disease.
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