NewsNotes 12/3/2018

NEWSNOTES December 3, 2018 In this issue: From Principal Nardelli Calendar From the PTO

From Principal Nardelli

I Am From: On display in our long first floor hallway are the I Am From Leaves that our students created last month.  Below are some images of our display.          Early Release Day Reminder:  There is an early release scheduled for this Wednesday, December 5th.  Students will be released at 12:30.   During this time, staff will be engaged in a few important initiatives: For the first part of the day we will continue our work on the importance of understanding culture in creating a welcoming and engaging school environment. The second part of the afternoon will include small group work.  Some examples include: Our grade 2 team will be looking at math assessment data and upcoming units in the new Investigations math program.   3rd, 4th, and 5th grade teams will be getting together as one large group to look at how we teach students to write in response to text they are reading.     School Connectedness Survey: Recently, a letter was sent to all families from the Superintendent’s office describing our annual School Connectedness Survey.  These surveys are administered to all 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students each November/December.  While we do not see individual student responses, the results give us a sense of how students feel about their experiences at our school.  If you have questions, we have copies of the survey available in the main office. Carr School Update:  On November 28th, the School Committee voted to keep the Horace Mann name as we move to the building on 225 Nevada St.  Here is the official announcement: Also, below is a brief update on some of the questions that have been coming in about our move: Questions about crossing guards/intersections - This is an important item on our to do list for late winter/early spring.  We have requested a traffic study to determine potentially dangerous intersections as well as where new crossing guards will need to be allocated.  At this point, no decisions have been made.  Questions about bussing - The city anticipates that a bus route may be created to address longer travel distances from those families residing closer to West Newton.  Again, no decisions have been made yet, but will be addressed this spring. Winter Weather: Now that the cold weather has arrived in earnest, please remember to dress your children appropriately for the weather.  We go outside for recess every day, except when the most bitterly cold air arrives. Children are expected to wear coats and long pants when we go outside in cold temperatures.  Children should also bring hats, gloves/mittens, boots and snow pants as we will be outside when the snow arrives. We recommend labeling all items with your child’s name so that we can limit items in  the Lost and Found barrel. Holiday Celebrations: We've been drawing attention this fall to the various practices and traditions celebrated in the lives of our families here at HM.  In thinking about the normal exposure of the more prominent holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas), we've asked teachers to be purposeful in class about discussing other celebrations that come up during the school year that are important to people from other cultures.  For example, a fair number of students have shared the fact that they do not dress up or trick-or-treat during Halloween.  We also learned that not everyone has turkey on Thanksgiving.  On Friday, some 5th graders shared games, writing, and food traditions that their families take part in during Hanukah. While the items I shared may not be new information for many of us, we do feel that giving students a chance to share their traditions is an important part of establishing a welcoming environment.  The goal is not to censor or squash the celebrations of the majority, but to acknowledge and celebrate cultural traditions that reflect the reality of our community. School Committee Gift Policy: On a related note, I realize that many families wish to express their gratitude to staff members.  I want to remind you of the Massachusetts Ethics Reform laws regarding gifts.  The law states that “municipal employees may not accept gifts and gratuities valued at $50 or more” (per year). “A group gift for a teacher/classroom where individuals contribute smaller amounts cannot exceed $150.” Classroom supplies/contributions do not fall under this policy. I ask for your cooperation in adhering to this policy. If you wish to express your gratitude to a staff member, cards or notes are greatly appreciated.  Other alternatives include purchasing a book for the library or making a donation to the Newton Schools Foundation. Each of these can be dedicated to honor a special staff member.  Thank you in advance for your thoughtfulness.

Calendar

Staff Appreciation Breakfast Wednesday, December 5 Early Release Wednesday, December 5 12:30 p.m. FORJ Meeting Tuesday, December 11 No School, December Recess Monday, December 24-Tuesday, January 1, 2019 Visit the entire Horace Mann Calendar at www.horacemannpto.com

From the PTO

[Store_Button] LAST CHANCE to order delicious coffee cakes from My Grandma's of New England Coffee Cake company. These decadent cakes (you may have nibbled some at the Book Fair breakfast) make a great gift and a perfect brunch item for a holiday morning. They stay fresh for two weeks and freeze for up to a year. And, the best part is, more than 30% of the profits go right back to the Horace Mann PTO. Click on the link below to order. (Paper forms are available in the Office if you want to sell at work or in your neighborhood. ) Details: Cakes are $12 each. Sale runs through Tuesday, December 4. Cakes will be available for pick up in the front of school on Tuesday, December 18 from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday, December 19 from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. and Wednesday evening (time and place TBD.) We also deliver to D. A. D. cubbies! The Fourth and Fifth Grade Social Action Committee is running a coat drive in connection with the Food Drive this week.  Coats will be donated to Cradles to Crayons They are accepting winter coats in good, clean condition  Sizes Infant to Adult Small Drop in front/back lobbies of school  DECEMBER  3rd-7th You can also click on the link below to donate directly to Cradles to Crayons Amazon Wish List   https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/TJMR8JUUS0US/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_mt__wl Don't forget the Horace Mann Food Drive to benefit the  Centre Street Food Pantry December  3rd-7th Upcoming SOCIAL EVENTS Time to register for a night at  The Paint Bar! Friday, January 11 at 6:30 p.m. Register here: https://www.thepaintbar.com/newton/jan-2019/advreg-01-11-19-nv-630 SAVE THE DATE Mystery Dinner—Saturday, February 2, 2019—Calling all dinner hosts! We are also looking for an Appetizer Host, please contact Liz Kleinerman or Tracy Kane for details.  Contact information listed below. Our 2019 Mystery Dinner is Saturday, February 2nd and we need dinner hosts!!  Those of you who have been a part of the Mystery Dinner in previous years know how much fun it is.  It's a wonderful opportunity to catch up with old acquaintances, meet new friends, and connect with other HM parents; all while enjoying delicious food and supporting the school. Please consider opening your home for a dinner.  Dinner host deadline is Friday, December 14th. For those who need more information, a quick snapshot of the night: At 7pm on the evening of the event, you and the other attendees will gather at one large appetizer party,  where you will receive your mystery envelope revealing your dinner destination, host, and theme. At 8pm, everyone will proceed to their dinners,  we will all enjoy delicious food and get to know each other better. After dinner around 10pm, everyone will reconvene for dessert and coffee at a new (surprise) location. Being a host entails opening up your home to anywhere from 4-10 people (or more if your house can accommodate) for dinner.  You decide the theme and the menu for your party to enjoy.  Past dinners have ranged from home-cooked Italian dinners to surf & turf to Indian cuisine.  It can be as creative and involved as you wish.  It does not need to be extravagant--the point is to enjoy a good meal and to have fun!  If you are interested or have questions, please email Liz Kleinerman (ejkleinerman@gmail.com) or Tracy Kane (tracy.kane7@gmail.com) with any questions. Save the date, get your childcare lined up, and get ready for some fun! Box Tops Thanks to everyone who submitted Box Tops this fall. Those little scraps of paper raised $200 for the PTO! Please keep clipping them and sending them in to your child's teacher. The next deadline is in March. Don't forget to start your holiday Amazon orders at smile.amazon.com! Choose Horace Mann PTO as your charity and a percentage of your purchase comes back to HM. Horace Mann is moving to the Carr Building  Horace Mann is scheduled to move to the Carr Building in September 2019. We know there are many questions about what to expect with regards to the move, facility enhancement, technology and many other areas. In order to help us communicate accurate information, Mark Nardelli will answer your questions through regular updates via email and news notes. Please list any questions you have about the move below. Thank you! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScO9ATbIqARgbv_TTM3BFw6eF vHYvCmXZURLq-nNejSpnnEig/viewform?c=0&w=1

Quick Links

Don't forget to use our rewards programs when you shop! Money raised goes towards the PTO. Thanks! You can also pay your dues online if you haven't already.  [Store_Button]

Wednesday Dismissal and Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear HM Families,

A reminder that Wednesday's dismissal is at 12:00 (not 12:30)

I also wanted to share a little bit about our assembly on Monday.  We read some poems written by Nikki Grimes about being thankful.  I've included some images of the poems below:

      

Afterwards, I asked the students to think about and share things that they are thankful for in life.

Finally, we watched a short video about simple ways to be kind in our everyday lives.  Here's a link to the Youtube clip:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQzL8JrdWBs

I've asked students to come up with three kind things they can do, either at home or at school.  Feel free to ask your children what they can tell you about our assembly...

I hope you all get to enjoy some family time during the Thanksgiving break.  For those of you traveling, stay safe!

Best Wishes,

Mark Nardelli
Principal

Blue Zone Update

I am writing to you with some updated information about our BLUE ZONE processes.  Please read carefully.

MORNING DROP OFF - The Blue Zone is for live drop off only.  Please DO NOT park your car in the BLUE ZONE.  DO NOT leave your car unattended during the morning drop off times.   If you would like to walk your child to class, please park your car in a designated parking spot or on a side street. 

AFTERNOON PICKUP - In the afternoon, the BLUE ZONE is shared by buses, vans and family vehicles.  Parents may park and leave their car to pick up their child from the rear entrance (K-2).  However, you MAY NOT DOUBLE PARK.  Also, DO NOT PARK on the GRASSY AREA next to the brook.

We have requested more frequent presence from the Newton Police and they will be issuing tickets for violation of these rules.

Thank you for your cooperation.  Please keep in mind that these rules are in place for the safety of the children who are entering and exiting the building each day.

Sincerely,
Mark Nardelli
Principal

NewsNotes 11/12/18

NEWSNOTES November 11, 2018 In this issue: From Principal Nardelli Calendar From the PTO

From Principal Nardelli

Veterans Day Thoughts: Knowing that we have a number of parents and family members who have served our country in the armed forces, I wanted to briefly acknowledge and thank our HM families and also draw a little attention to their service: "This week we honor the men and women who sacrificially serve, protect, and defend our country. First known as Armistice Day, President Woodrow Wilson set aside the day of Nov. 11 (the first anniversary of the signing of the armistice ending WWI) to recognize and thank our American soldiers for their service. This day was declared a National Holiday in 1938 and in 1954 the name was changed to Veteran’s Day to honor all American Veterans. Therefore, we take this day to commemorate and celebrate the brave, loyal, and selfless American soldiers and their families for giving us the opportunity to live freely in this great country." Below are a few quotes: "On this Veteran’s Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free.”    ~Dan Lipinsky "In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.”  ~ Jose Narovsky "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”   ~ John F. Kennedy "Our veterans left everything they knew and loved and served with exemplary dedication and courage so we could all know a safer America and a more just world. They have been tested in ways the rest of us may never fully understand...On Veterans Day, and every day, let us show them the extraordinary gratitude they so rightly deserve..."  ~ Barack Obama. On a related note, I am also sharing a poem titled Be Thankful…My hope is that these words will be a reminder to all of us that the challenges we face in our lives have the power to help us grow, gain strength, and create opportunities that may not have existed otherwise.  All too often as parents we worry that adversity will hurt or damage our children in a way that they cannot overcome.  In reality, it is during those times that children can demonstrate how strong they are... Be Thankful Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don’t know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons. Be thankful when you’re tired and weary, because it means you’ve made a difference. It’s easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks. Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings. ~Author Unknown 4th/5th Grade Math/Screen Time Feedback - I apologize for the delay, but if you attended our evening workshop a couple of weeks back, I’ve created a 2 minute survey for people to fill out.  Your feedback will help us think about future sessions on these topics.  Click on the link here: https://goo.gl/forms/Pv0NkyHgINv3hUhN2 Staff Learning at HM - During the months of November and December, we will be looking at the biology of the brain to help us better understand how children learn, specifically in environments where students feel safe vs. threatened, welcome vs. alienated, valued vs. overlooked.  Building upon the work of Zaretta Hammond in her book titled Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain, our goal thus far has been to focus on the role of the school and classroom environment in fostering learning opportunities for all students.   Moving forward, we will also begin using what we learn about brain research to look much more closely at instructional strategies that will maximize learning for students as well.  I will share more details as we get further into this work. The Naming Committee for the School on Nevada Street seeks comment from parents, school staff and members of the community regarding its preliminary recommendation on an appropriate name. Please see these options for providing your input and listening to discussions: School Committee Meeting discussion November 14th, 7:00 pm in Room 210, 100 Walnut Street School Committee Meeting discussion & VOTE November 28th, 7:00 pm in Room 210, 100 Walnut Street The Naming Committee welcomes written comments sent to  Naming225NevadaSt@gmail.com For more information, click on the following link: http://newtonptocouncil.org/2018/10/06/naming-committee-for-the-school-on-nevada-street/ Understanding Our Differences - This month, 4th and 5th grade students have taken part in the first UOD modules of the year.  The goals of UOD are: Children learn to be more inclusive and friendly; Children become more accepting and allies of those with disabilities; Children with disabilities and their siblings are less likely to be bullied, teased or isolated; Children meet and learn from individuals with disabilities; Children become more comfortable around people with all kinds of disabilities. The first 4th grade unit was on Chronic Medical Conditions including Allergic Conditions, Asthma, Diabetes and Epilepsy modules. Key themes: Allergies, asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy are not contagious. These conditions are chronic and can usually be managed with proper medical care, medications, advance planning, and lifestyle adjustments, but there is presently no cure for any of them. Allergies, asthma, diabetes and epilepsy are “hidden” conditions. You cannot tell by looking at someone whether he or she has any of these conditions. This past week, 5th graders learned about Intellectual Disabilities.  This unit introduces the concept of intellectual disabilities, and helps students understand the causes and how they affect the functioning of the brain. Students learn that people with intellectual disabilities have hopes, dreams, and goals like everyone else and are able to live very productive lives. Key themes: People with intellectual disabilities can do many things, but it sometimes may take them longer to learn how to do them. People with intellectual disabilities are unique but have can have multiple challenges, including language, academic, social and motor skills, and activities of daily living. Name-calling is hurtful and cannot be confronted passively. Students are encouraged to use modern language and be a friend and an ally. The importance of sensitivity and respect for children and adults with intellectual disabilities is emphasized.

Calendar

Picture RETAKE Day Wednesday, November 14 NOT IN OUR TOWN EVENT 5th Grade Families Thursday, November 15 Early Dismissal Wednesday, November 21 NOON No School, Thanksgiving Recess Thursday and Friday, November 22 and 23 Visit the entire Horace Mann Calendar at www.horacemannpto.com

From the PTO

[Store_Button] Just in time for the holidays, you can order delicious coffee cakes from My Grandma's of New England Coffee Cake company. These decadent cakes (you may have nibbled some at the Book Fair breakfast) make a great gift and a perfect brunch item for a holiday morning. They stay fresh for two weeks and freeze for up to a year. And, the best part is, more than 30% of the profits go right back to the Horace Mann PTO. Click on the link below to order. (Paper forms are available in the Office if you want to sell at work or in your neighborhood. ) Details: Cakes are $12 each. Sale runs through Tuesday, December 4. Cakes will be available for pick up in the front of school on Tuesday, December 18 from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday, December 19 from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. and Wednesday evening (time and place TBD.) We also deliver to D. A. D. cubbies! Horace Mann Food Drive to benefit the Centre Street Food Pantry Dec. 3rd-7th TWO Upcoming SOCIAL EVENTS Time to register for a night at  The Paint Bar! Thursday, January 10 at 6:30 p.m. Register here: https://www.thepaintbar.com/newton/jan-2019/advreg-01-11-19-nv-630 Join Horace Mann parents for some fun pub trivia! Details coming soon. Check you email! Horace Mann is moving to the Carr Building  Horace Mann is scheduled to move to the Carr Building in September 2019. We know there are many questions about what to expect with regards to the move, facility enhancement, technology and many other areas. In order to help us communicate accurate information, Mark Nardelli will answer your questions through regular updates via email and news notes. Please list any questions you have about the move below. Thank you! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScO9ATbIqARgbv_TTM3BFw6eF vHYvCmXZURLq-nNejSpnnEig/viewform?c=0&w=1

Quick Links

Don't forget to use our rewards programs when you shop! Money raised goes towards the PTO. Thanks! You can also pay your dues online if you haven't already.  [Store_Button]

Day Middle School Student Services Information Session

F.A. Day Middle School Student Services

Parent Info-Session

5^th Grade to 6^th Grade Transition Process for Students with

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

DATE: Wednesday, November 28^th

TIME: 6:30pm – 7:30pm

LOCATION: F.A. Day Middle School Library


Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of students at F.A. Day Middle School feeder pattern elementary schools (Horace Mann, Burr, Franklin, Cabot, Peirce) are invited to meet with Mike Thurm, Assistant Principal for Student Services, for a discussion about the transition to middle school process for 5^th grade students with IEPs.

No RSVP Necessary

Early Release Thursday at 12:30

Please note that this Thursday, November 1st, we will have an Early Release  at 12:30 for ALL STUDENTS.

Classroom teachers will use this time to hold parent/teacher conferences. 

We will also be training special ed staff and behavior therapists in a citywide workshop opportunity.

NewsNotes 10/26/2018

NEWSNOTES October 26, 2018 In this issue: From Principal Nardelli Calendar From the PTO

From Principal Nardelli

International Night Photos                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Assembly - At our October Assembly, we shared a story called  All Are Welcome  by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman to kick of a community-wide project called “I A From”.  Each year,  5th grade students write a poem called “I Am From” which details things that are important to our students, their families and their communities.   At assembly, several of our students read lines from their own poems.  Here are some examples: “I am from writing stories and using my creative mind to make a masterpiece.” “I am from doing Israeli dance on a big stage in front of a supportive crowd.” “I am from mama’s Thai food with different varieties of delicious food that feels like it was from food heaven.” “I am from Mt. Washington and its pretty view of the White Mountains. It feels cold and windy at the  summit.” “I am from Ramadan to fasting without one drop of water to drink or eating one crumb of food.” “I am from the loud and busy city of Boston.” “I am from the island of roaring engines of motorcycles in Dominican Republic.” “I am from escaping Singapore heat to the cool water.” “I am from the sound of the piano notes floating out of the living room." For our school-wide version of the “I Am From” project, each classroom will talk about the different communities that we belong to (school, family, church, neighborhood, team) and share some of the things that are important about being part of a community. In addition, each child will get an autumn leaf and write a statement describing one or two things that are important to know about them.  We will then hang the leaves all around the school as a way to display the diverse experiences and traditions that makeup our school population. Carr School Update for October  This coming Monday, October 29th, the School Committee will take public comments on plans for keeping the Horace Mann name as we move to the Carr School building next year. The preliminary recommendation from the School Committee is to take the Horace Mann name with us to the new building. I will be in attendance, along with a few parents who have offered to come.  For more information, please click on the following link: https://www.newton.k12.ma.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=4&ModuleInstanceID=36&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=10788&PageID=1&Comments=true This month, I will be assigning classrooms to teachers and work spaces for non-classroom teachers.  We will visit the building in November for a staff tour and to meet with Cabot teachers who are now using the space. I have met with Steve Rattendi, the Interim Director of Technology for Newton, to discuss the technology plan for Carr.  He will be gathering information over the next few weeks, and will provide me with an update on the current inventory at both HM and Carr, as well as some thoughts about our move. An agency hired by the district is currently in the process of doing a comprehensive inventory of everything in our building (bookcases, tables, etc.) We have sited a likely location for the installation of a “Gaga Ball” structure at the Carr School property.  If you aren’t sure what Gaga Ball is, click this link:  https://www.gagacenter.com/nyc/about/what-is-gaga/ MCAS - If you are the parent of a current 4th or 5th grader, you should have received results from last spring’s MCAS test administration. If you have not yet received them, please let me know.  We have scores here at school and can provide you with a copy of the mailing that was supposed to go home last week.  A few comments regarding the exam, including some basic information: Students in grades 3-8 take the MCAS exam each year.  In all grades, students are tested in math and literacy (reading and writing).  In grades 5 and 8, students are also tested in science/technology. In high school, students must pass math, literacy, and one of the science content areas in order to be eligible for a diploma.   The tests are quite challenging, particularly prior to high school.  Your child's performance on the exam may or may not be a reflection of their performance in school.   They are a snapshot of your child's performance on that day.  Our teachers use a much broader sample of work, assessments, observations, and other criteria to create a picture of your child's strengths and areas for growth as a learner.  The MCAS test has been evolving over the past 5-6 years.  The state is still formulating and piloting questions, and trying to establish appropriate cutoff levels for what it means to MEET EXPECTATIONS. At Horace Mann, we do not teach to the test.  A few weeks ahead of time, we provide some sample questions and give students a chance to become familiar with the test using the online practice tests.    Last year’s test was the first time 3rd graders were asked to take the test on a computer. Keyboarding, making math calculations electronically, scrolling, etc. were new to most students.  We will spend more time on some of these skills in grade 3 this year. Thinking about all of the above, if you have concerns about your child’s scores, please reach out to me and/or your child’s classroom teacher.  I’m happy to have a conversation and look at other data points to build a more complete picture of your chid’s progress in school.   Creative Arts And Sciences - This past week, we had a CAS performance for the whole school called The Voci Angelica Trio.   The Voci Angelica Trio sang in eight languages and covered a lot of territory, performing songs from Haiti, Nigeria, Libya, Japan, Israel, New Zealand, Ukraine, Venezuela, and the Appalachian region of the United States. The children sang, danced, clapped and whistled along as invited.   Here are a few images of the performance:

Calendar

Early Release Thursday, November 1 12:30 p.m. Visit the entire Horace Mann Calendar at www.horacemannpto.com

From the PTO

Thank you to all who helped make  International Night 2018 such a huge success! This night never fails to exemplify the wonderful diversity we have at our school.  But a special thank you to our International Night Committee, Shanu Mehta, Ellen Farwell, Al Beevers, Kate Carpenter Bernier, Sree Rapolu, and Leah Even Chorev. Thanks for coming to the Book Fair! This year's book fair reached our goal of more than $18,000 and helped put thousands of dollars worth of books in our classrooms. Thanks to all of the volunteers for staffing, setting up, and cleaning up. Thanks to all of the parents who shopped the fair. And, thanks to Mr. Tynes and D.A.D. for sharing the gym with us. Finally, please don't forget to support our sponsors: My Grandma's of New England Coffee Cakes, Stop and Shop, Whole Foods, Belmont Springs, and UPS Newtonville. SPIRIT WEAR is on SALE! We are offering a few cold-weather items to be delivered just in time for the holidays. Order through the school store by November 7. Please let Mr. Nardelli know if you need financial support. Go Hawks!  [Store_Button] Horace Mann is moving to the Carr Building  Horace Mann is scheduled to move to the Carr Building in September 2019. We know there are many questions about what to expect with regards to the move, facility enhancement, technology and many other areas. In order to help us communicate accurate information, Mark Nardelli will answer your questions through regular updates via email and news notes. Please list any questions you have about the move below. Thank you! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScO9ATbIqARgbv_TTM3BFw6eF vHYvCmXZURLq-nNejSpnnEig/viewform?c=0&w=1

Quick Links

Don't forget to use our rewards programs when you shop! Money raised goes towards the PTO. Thanks! You can also pay your dues online if you haven't already.  [Store_Button]