USA > Massachusetts > Hampshire County > Westhampton > Town of Westhampton annual report 1960 > Part 2
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Twenty-four pupils from the Center School were guests of the library trustees and the librarian at a tea at Mrs. Mascho's home May 21. Mrs. Marianna Rowe, Children's Librarian at the Regional Library, told stories to the group. This was in recognition for receiving State Reading Certifi- cates. Twenty-four pupils read a total of 279 books.
Four Story hours for the young children were held dur- ing the summer with a total of 86 attending. Mrs. Robert Norris, Mrs. Muriel Adams, children's librarian at Easthamp- ton Public Library, Mrs. Marianna Rowe, children's libra- rian at the Regional Library in Greenfield, and Mrs. George Reuter told the stories.
December 9, Mr. Frank Putnam, teacher at Williston Academy, spoke at the library and showed pictures of Ger- many and Austria. Refreshments were served by the trustees to the 22 who attended.
Respectfully submitted, MARION M. MASCHO Librarian
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE
The Westhampton School Committee was happy to have Mr. Harold Wood again serve as one of its members. Mr. Wood was reelected at the annual town meeting to serve a second term.
In the spring our school nurse, Mrs. Eunice Cernak, re- signed her position. It was sometime before this position could be filled and Mrs. Ruth Hover helped us out without compensation. Mrs. Eleanor Scott has now taken over these school nurse duties.
At the annual town meeting, a Regional School Planning Board was voted. The moderator named Philip Norris and James Miller as town representatives. Frank Hathaway re- presented the school committee. This board met once and no action was taken. Williamsburg School Committee decided that they would solve their high school problem by a build- ing program of their own.
The bus contracts for the five routes were awarded to Walter Witherell as the lowest bidder. A new paragraph was put in the contract affecting the total mileage. This will be added to the contract price at the rate of twenty-five cents per mile. Mr. Witherell purchased a forty-five passenger bus for the Williamsburg route.
In July the Northampton High School decided to go on a double session schedule. This necessitated an additional bus route to Northampton. After polling the eighth-grade students only one student indicated a desire to go to Northampton High. In view of the cost of transporting one student, the school committee certified only Williamsburg High School for freshmen for 1960-61 school year.
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The church's Board of Religious Education asked us to again consider released time for religious education. The majority of parents did not want this released time, so the committee decided against it.
Traffic signs have been put up on either side of school to remind drivers that the school zone must be kept a safety zone.
A sump-pump has been installed in the school cellar to get rid of the water on the recommendation of the state in- spector.
There appeared in the paper a notice concerning the problem created by stray dogs on the play ground. The com- mittee wishes again to request the cooperation of citizens in controlling this problem.
The school committee wishes to thank the P.T.A. for the work done on the playground on the Mascho property. Sev- eral loads of fill have been brought in and leveled. In the spring, we are told, this will be seeded. When the project is finished, it will greatly improve the playground area.
The school committee met in Southampton last April for the annual Union 51 meeting. A delicious dinner was enjoyed. A business meeting followed. In April this year, the West- hampton School Committee will be host to this group.
In November, at a special town meeting, the town voted fifteen hundred dollars ($1,500.00) for additional school ex- pense. This expense was chiefly extra transportation cost caused by double sessions in Northampton.
The school committee has been trying to find a suitable class room space in order to be able to separate the first and second grades. The number of pupils in the room at Center School makes it very difficult for our teacher to spend as much time with each class as she feels is necessary.
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The school committee has asked that an article be put in the town warrant as follows:
"To see if the town will vote to establish a school building needs committee or to take any other action thereon."
The 1961 budget of the school committee is substantially larger than last year. The increase is mainly due to increased teachers' salaries, higher transportation costs and higher tui- tion.
We wish to express our appreciation to our Superinten- dent, our Principal, Teachers and Staff for their cooperation in making this a good year at Center School.
FRANK A. HATHAWAY, Chm. WINIFRED O. HURD, Sec. HAROLD B. WOOD School Committee
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REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
To the School Committee and Citizens of Westhampton:
I am pleased to submit herewith my second annual re- port as your Superintendent of Schools.
Mr. Frank Hathaway was elected Chairman of the School Committee at the reorganization meeting held in March. Mrs. Winifred Hurd was elected as Secretary. Mr. Harold Wood is the third member of the committee.
The annual meeting of the School Committee of Union #51 was held on April 2, 1960, at the William E. Norris School in Southampton. The report of the Superintendent was read and a discussion of educational trends and practices fol- lowed. Mr. Clement F. Burr of Southampton was re-elected Chairman and Mr. Richard Warren of Williamsburg was re- elected Secretary. The invitation of the Westhampton School Committee to hold the 1961 meeting in Westhampton was accepted.
Formal Parent-Teacher conferences were held in No- vember after the first marking period. The first report card normally is the focal point of the conference and gives both the teacher and parent a common topic of discussion. Most of the parents seem to enjoy and want these conferences, mainly because there is a personal relationship forged be- tween the parent and the teacher. This relationship should and usually does develop into a stronger bond of joint re- sponsibility on the part of the teacher and the parent in relation to the child. These conferences provide an excellent opportunity to advise parents about the leadership, attention span, study habits, homework results, special abilities, par- ticular weaknesses and self-reliance aspects of the child's growth, along with his achievement and effort.
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The report cards of grades three through eight have been revised. The principal changes made were a provision for reporting effort as well as achievement and a larger space made available for teacher and parent comment. The inclu- sion of an effort column is felt to be important because it gives parents an additional factor concerning the progress of their child. It indicates whether or not a child is working up to capacity.
Every effort is being made to promote the closest possi- ble school-home relationship. The parent-teacher conferences, the revision of the report card, a sincere invitation to parents to visit school at any time and the willingness of our teachers to make themselves available for meetings with parent are evidences of this desire.
A study of the record of births over the past five years would seem to indicate a rising school population in the near future. Our school building is now operating at close to over- all maximum capacity and is crowded in some areas. Thirty pupils in grades one and two is not a desirable situation either educationally or physically in our limited school plant. Our present school building will not be able to adequately house any appreciable increase in pupil enrollment.
Our present staff is as follows:
Mr. Donald F. Franciosi Grades 5 and 6-Principal
Mrs. Priscilla Phillips Grades 3 and 4
Miss Rachel Bridgman Grades 1 and 2
Supervisors in specialized fields:
Mrs. Marion Reuter Art
Mrs. Elizabeth Torrey Music
Other staff members are as follows:
Dr. Keith Wilbur
School Physician
Dr. Abel Ross
School Dentist
Mrs. Eleanor Scott
School Nurse
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Distribution of pupils as of October 1, 1960, is listed below:
Grades 1 and 2 30
Grades 3 and 4 20
Grades 5 and 6 15
65
Tuition Students :
Williamsburg Jr. High 23
Williamsburg High 14
Northampton High 13
Smith's School 3
Springfield Trade
1
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Total School Population 119
Our custodian, Mr. Stanley Bartlett, continues to keep our building in good condition. He is most conscientious and cooperative in carrying out his duties.
Our thanks to Mrs. Ruth Hover for carrying on the school health program in September following the resignation of our School Nurse, Mrs. Eunice Cernak, and prior to the appointment of our present School Nurse, Mrs. Eleanor Scott.
In order to obtain the best results from their school work, children must be in good physical condition. Our school, through the physical examination program, vision testing, audiometer testing and health teaching, seeks to educate our children in ways of healthful living, and also to keep our par- ents informed concerning the physical condition of their chil- dren. Our School Nurse. Mrs. Eleanor Scott and the profes- sional staff have been most cooperative and conscientious in making our health program so successful.
In concluding this report, I wish to express my appre- ciation to the School Committee for their splendid cooperation
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throughout the year. I wish to commend the fine spirit of loyalty which the teachers have shown at all times. I am deeply grateful to the parents, citizens and community or- ganizations for their continued efforts to improve our educa- tional program.
Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS P. REDDINGTON Superintendent of Schools
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PRINCIPAL'S REPORT - 1960
The annual Principal's report of Westhampton is hereby submitted.
The closing of the year 1960 appears to be initiating a new and hopeful atmosphere in the town of Westhampton. Favorable comments and issues are beginning to find their way into the total school picture. I sincerely hope, for the benefit of the future citizens of this town, that great strides in improving educational facilities are fostered and brought to a very helpful and sound conclusion.
The school year ending in June 1960, found eleven eager individuals anticipating the coming years at Williamsburg. the graduation program included musical selections and skits presented by the different rooms and concluded with the pre- sentation of awards and certificates to outstanding indivi- duals with scholastic, attendance, and citizenship merit.
The present school year, thus far, is enhancing many new and improved ideas in the educational field. The teach- ers are continuing their educational pursuit by attending various teacher-centered courses in the field of education. This is a good sign, as on many occasions the ideas discussed at these classes are brought back into the classroom and used where they will do the most good for everyone concerned.
September brought another increase in enrollment, which is presently sixty-eight. At present, the only grades not overly affected by crowding conditions are the fifth and sixth. With- in the next two years, however, the schools population is an- ticipated at between seventy-five and eighty pupils. This would not be a serious problem if it were not for the fact of "doubling-up" of the grades.
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Perhaps the most important changes this school year have been the institution of Formal Parent-Teacher confer- ences in addition to the new marking system and report card. The conference proved highly successful from the viewpoint of attendance and discussion, with seventy-six percent (76%) of the families represented at Center School attending. This in itself is a very commendable attitude.
Fifty-two children are participating in the School Acci- dent Insurance Plan. Sixty are fostering sound saving habits by using the banking system made available to them. The soup program began in December and will be carried on weekly until warm weather prevails.
The Children are enjoying various services rendered by outside organizations and institutions. Included are the Book- mobile, audio-visual devices, speakers, and other specialized services made available to public education.
As changes in the school curriculum, policies, ideas, and educational procedures are fostered and at times discarded for better ways, such should be your attitude towards edu- cating your future citizens. They have a place in this world and that place depends on what you do and think now. They must be guided correctly by you if they are to find their pro- per place in our society. We the teachers urge you, the towns- people of Westhampton, to give these matters serious thought and with mature thinking and judgement, a sensible and rewarding conclusion will result.
Respectfully submitted, DONALD F. FRANCIOSI Principal
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REPORT OF THE SCHOOL NURSE
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur did the yearly physicals in Sept.
In November Dr. Abel Ross examined the children's teeth. In general he found the condition of the teeth improved over last year.
The puretone audiometer was used in November to test hearing.
Parents and teachers were very co-operative in all mat- ters and I wish to thank them.
Respectfully submitted, ELEANOR R. SCOTT, R.N. School Nurse
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REPORT OF THE ART SUPERVISOR
The art classes at the Westhampton Center School are held every other week. One hour art periods are given to each classroom.
The first through the fourth grades have been using cray- ons, water colors and tempra paints. They have done a few lessons in using basic shapes to build pictures of construction paper. The classes all did very well decorating their class- room windows for the Christmas season. The fifth and sixth grades have been working on their art notebooks. The first notebook has been done on the life of an artist, each student selecting the painter they wished to do. They are now work- ing on the second folder of different types of lettering. At the end of the school year they will have completed a notebook of design and color. These two classes have had a class in copper enameling. These projects will be exhibited again this year in May. I hope many parents will visit the exhibit and see the projects the children have been doing in the Art pro- gram this year.
I wish to thank those responsible for the supplies which make the Art program possible.
Respectfully submitted, MARION S. REUTER Art Supervisor
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REPORT OF THE MUSIC SUPERVISOR
Mr. Francis P. Reddington Superintendent of Schools Williamsburg, Mass.
Dear Sir:
I submit the report of Supervisor of Music in the West- hampton School.
In addition to the graded work in Music, three programs were given according to custom-the Memorial Day, music for the sixth grade graduation and the recent Christmas pro- gram.
Always remembering that a knowledge of the funda- mentals of music will enrich the lives of the children in years to come, we are carrying on a thorough work in theory as well as song.
At graduation, we combined a musical play, "Concert of the Months", with June ending as graduation of the sixth grade. I trust this in some measure demonstrated work of the individual pupil and the value of all pupils working together.
In closing, I wish to thank you, the School Committee, parents, teachers and pupils for the support given me during 1960.
Respectfully submitted, ELIZABETH TORREY Supervisor of Music
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FINANCIAL STATEMENT
EXPENDITURES
Administration
Francis P. Reddington, Salary
$968.76
Francis P. Reddington, Travel
75.00
Ruth S. Hover, Census
15.00
Jeanette M. O'Neill, Secretary
524.88
School Committee Expenses
28.75
$1,612.39
Instruction
Teachers' Salaries:
Donald Franciosi
$4,240.16
Rachel Bridgman
4,166.96
Priscilla Phillips
3,806.72
Marion Reuter, Art
224.00
Elizabeth Torrey, Music
310.00
Marion Mascho, Substitute
220.00
Helen Tilley, Special
577.20
Patricia Norris, Substitute & Special
116.00
Adrienne Decker, Substitute
25.00
13,686.04
Books
318.24
Supplies
311.00
Maintenance
Janitor's Salary
$1,100.00
Fuel
105.00
Operating Expenses
425.75
Repairs and Replacements
504.86
2,135.61
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General
Health :
Eunice Cernak, R.N.
$112.50
Eleanor Scott, R.N.
125.00
Dr. Keith Wilbur
10.00
Dr. Abel Ross
25.00
Supplies
4.05
276.55
Transportation :
W. Witherell
Elementary
4,182.60
High, Vocational & Jr. High
5,306.00
Hampshire Trans. & Service Corp. Jr. High 1,980.00
11,468.60
Tuition :
Springfield Public Schools
$205.12
Town of Williamsburg
10,168.70
City of Northampton
7,668.36
Smith's School
1,641.48
19,683.66
Contingent
Outlay
Total Expenditures for Schools
$49,492.09
RECEIPTS
Mass. School Fund. Chapter 70 $6,886.01
Mass. School Fund, Chapter 71
8,858.08
Superintendent's Salary 466.67
Vocational Tuition and Transportation
780.70
16,991.46
NET COST OF MAINTAINING
SCHOOLS FOR 1960 $32.500.63
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SCHOOL CENSUS - OCTOBER 1, 1960
5-7 years 7-16 years 55
16 years or over
Boys
14
9
Girls
15
46
7
29
101
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WESTHAMPTON SCHOOL DEPT. BUDGET
1961
Administration
Budget 1960 $1,575.00
Expended 1960 $1,612.39
Budget 1961 $1,650.00
Instruction
Teachers' Salaries
13,046.50
13,686.04
17,739.00
Books
325.00
318.24
400.00
Supplies
300.00
311.00
350.00
Maintenance
Janitor Salary
1,100.00
1,100.00
1,200.00
Fuel
500.00
105.00
500.00
Oper. Expense
425.00
425.75
425.00
Repairs
700.00
504.86
300.00
General
Health
375.00
276.55
450.00
Trans. High & Voc.
6,100.00
7,286.00
8,316.00
Trans. Elem.
4,105.00
4,145.10
4,590.00
Special Trans.
75.00
37.50
75.00
Tuition
19,972.40
19,683.66
20,767.60
Outlay
150.00
250.00
Contingent
100.00
100.00
$48,848.90
$49,492.09
$57,112.80
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REPORT OF THE WELL CHILD CONFERENCE
The Well Child Conference was held at the Westhamp- ton Congregational Church on June 1, 1960.
The staff included :
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur Physician
Dr. Abel Ross Dentist
Mrs. Irene Delisle Registrar Mrs. Edward Cernak Nurse
There were 26 children examined of which 9 were new cases.
Dr. Abel Ross examined 20 children of which 9 were found to have cavities and 11 in good condition. Dr. Ross suggested Flouride treatments for 11 children and an oral x-ray for one child.
DIPHTHERIA CLINIC
The Diphtheria Clinic was held at the Westhampton Town Hall on March 16, 1960.
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur
Physician
Mrs. Edward Cernak Nurse
Diphtheria P. T. Boosters 23 Vaccinated 3
POLIO CLINIC
The Polio Clinic was held at the Westhampton Congre- gational Church on June 8, 1960.
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur Physician
Mrs. Edward Cernak Nurse
Mrs. Clarence Delisle Registrar
Mrs. Murray Clapp Registrar
Polio Vaccine 112
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A Polio Clinic was held at Dr. Wilbur's office in the evening of June 14, 1960.
Dr. C. Keith Wilbur Mrs. Edward Cernak Nurse
Physician
Polio Vaccine 21
Respectfully submitted,
EUNICE CERNAK, R.N.
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REPORT OF THE CENTER CEMETERY
This is my seventeenth annual report to the people of Westhampton.
The regrading, smoothing and reseeding of much of the old part of the cemetery was completed this year. This im- provement work over the past several years has been so gradual that many townspeople may not realize the extensive change that has taken place. It gives the whole cemetery a much neater appearance and it is so much easier to maintain.
A great deal of time was spent on the new addition to the cemetery. Some Blackberry roots were grubbed out, sprouting brush was cut and road extension lines were staked out.
There were three burials in 1960.
Also four new lots were chosen by townspeople.
STANLEY BARTLETT Caretaker
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REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR OF BUILDINGS
There was a total of 28 permits issued for the year:
7 House Permits
9 Garage and Shop Permits
2 Poultry and Barns Permits
3 Storage Sheds Permits
5 Additions and Repairs Permits
Estimated total $90,185.00
Respectfully submitted, HAROLD LACOMB Building Inspector
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REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
As a Freshman Fire Chief this job could have been a severe chore, without the full cooperation of the Firemen, Town Officials and Townspeople. I have been very fortunate in having this cooperation. Everyone has been considerate in calling for a Fire Permit when burning and also in keeping a very good watch on these fires. This was proven by the fact that there were no brush fires this Fall.
We are equipped with the most modern and up to date Pump Truck. With this truck Westhampton has a piece of equipment that even with prolonged use will be a dependable and trustworthy truck.
After the arrival of the Pumper the Firemen were broken into small groups and drills were held bi-weekly for a good share of the summer. Thanks should be given here for the fine spirit of cooperation shown by all the Firemen as they gave up many summer evenings for these drills.
121 Outdoor fire permits were issued.
8 Power burner and oil storage permits.
3 Oil storage permits.
1 Gasoline permit.
6 Liguid Petroleum (gas) storage permits.
2 Explosive permits.
New members joining the Dept .:
Charles L. Inman Richard W. Tracy
A hose replacement program has been set up whereby each year hose is being replaced out of our yearly budget. As long as no unforeseen expense occurs this will continue as our original hose is going rapidly. Thought should be given
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to a Mobile 2-way radio set. This in effect would add several pieces of Fire fighting equipment to our Department, for a very moderate outlay of money in comparison to what this equipment would cost. This would tie us in with the Hamp- shire County Mutual Aid with all their apparatus to assist us in emergencies. Since I have been Fire Chief, there has been only two minor chimney Fires which again shows what carefulness and cooperation on the part of the townspeople can do.
Fire emergency cards were printed and distributed throughout the town. Anyone wanting additional cards, may have same by contacting me.
Again I would like to thank all the Firemen, especially my deputies, Richard Tracy and Philip Norris, who have given more than their share and made my job much easier.
Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS H. LOUD Fire Chief and Forest Warden
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REPORT OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
The Finance Committee met three times during the year.
At a meeting held in September it was voted to authorize the selectmen to make several transfers from the reserve fund if necessary. Considerable time was given to discussing the problem of improving South Road through the Center. Since the boundaries of the road are uncertain it was the recom- mendation of the Committee that the Selectmen seek the ad- vice and assistance of a lawyer in determining the boundaries.
In January meetings were held with the Selectmen and the School Committee to go over their proposed budgets for 1961. The Selectmen's budget was explained in detail by Frank Montague and Philip Clapp. The proposed budget ex- ceeds the 1960 requests by about $7,500. This increase is due to the Old Age Assistance and Public Welfare items over which the local officials have very little control. All other items in the budget were routine with very little change from last year. After a thorough discussion the budget was ap- proved as presented.
At the meeting with the School Committee all three members and Mr. Reddington, the Supt., were present. The budget was explained by Chairman Harold Wood and Mr. Reddington. The budget exceeded last years by about $8,200. This increase was practically all in the items for Teachers. Tuition, and Transportation. These three items make up 90% of the total school budget. Circumstances which are largely beyond the direct control of the local school committee dic- tate these costs. The item of $2,600 for a new part time teach- er for the first grade was not recommended by the Finance Committee because it did not appear certain that it would be used this year. Otherwise the budget was approved as pre- sented.
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A lengthy discussion was held on the problem of more and better school facilities since something apparently has to be done soon. The majority of those present felt that no more money should be spent on the present building or site. They definitely felt that steps should be taken to acquire and start developing a new and adequate site and that a committee should be chosen to start planning a new building.
The Chairman of the Finance Committee, Donald Lyman attended a conference for finance committees held at the Uni- versity of Mass. this summer and gained much helpful in- formation which he shared with us.
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE Richard Tracy, Clerk
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ARTICLES OF THE TOWN WARRANT
TOWN MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 6, 1961 Ten A.M. - Prompt
Article 1. To hear and act on all reports presented at said meeting.
Article 2. To elect by ballot necessary officers to serve the ensuing year.
Article 3. To see if the Town will vote to leave the care of the highways in charge of the Selectmen.
Article 4. To vote in compliance with Section 108, Chapter 41, General Laws, which requires that salaries of elected officers be fixed by vote of the Town.
Article 5. To raise and appropriate such sums of mon- ey as may be necessary to defray Town charges the ensuing year.
Article 6. To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Selectmen, to borrow money from time to time in anticipation of the reve- nue of the financial year beginning January 1, 1961. 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.
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Article 7. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from unappropriated funds in the treasury, a sum of money for Chapter 81 and Chapter 90 Highways, or taken any action in relation thereto.
Article 8. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,000.00 to cover the 1961 note on the Town Hall and $80.00 for the interest on the same.
Article 9. To see if the Town will vote one week vaca- tion with pay (forty-eight hours) to permanent employees.
Article 10. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate a sum of money for the observance of Memorial Day.
Article 11. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $100.00 for Insect Pest Control.
Article 12. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $177.31 for Dutch Elm Disease.
Article 13. To see if the Town will vote to establish a School Building Needs Committee or take any other action thereon.
Article 14. To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into a contract or contracts with one or more towns or combinations of Towns in accord- ance with the provisions of Chapter 118B of the General Laws as amended, to form a Welfare District, or take any other action thereon.
Other articles may appear in posted warrant.
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INDEX
PAGE Assessors, Report of the Board of 30
Budget Recommendations for 1961 27
Center Cemetery, Report of the 52
Finance Committee, Report of the 56
Fire Department, Report of the 54
Inspector of Buildings, Report of the 53
Jurors Drawn in 1960 29
Jury Box, Names in the 29
Librarian's Report - 1960 33
Recapitulation 25
Selectmen, Report of the Board of
11
School Department:
School Committee, Report of the 35
Superintendent of Schools, Report of the
38
Principal's Report - 1960 42
School Nurse, Report of the 44
Art Supervisor, Report of the 45
Music Supervisor, Report of the 46
School Financial Statement 47
School Department Budget 49
Town Clerk, Report of the 3
Town Treasurer, Report of the 6
Trust Funds 8
Warrant, Articles of the Town 58
Well Child Clinic, Report of the
50
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