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  • Informational Staff Update: Monday, November 27, 2023

      Empathy, Equity, Inclusivity, Integrity, Perseverance, Respect Weekly Staff Update from the Office of the Superintendent "Ten Schools, Three Districts, One Community of Learners." Senator Robyn Kennedy, Representative Meghan Kilcoyne, and Representative Kate Kate Donaghue (From Right to Left) visit classrooms with Peaselee Principal Dr. Mary Coakley. Monday, November 27, 2023 Table of Contents: A Message From the District Instructional Technology Support (ITS) team 2023-2024 Wellness Days - Your Feedback is Appreciated Key Links for Educators 1.  A Message From the District Instructional Technology Support (ITS) Team You may have developed a “reputation” for needing to sharpen your technology skills, but it’s not “1989” anymore. No need to be “red” in the face.  We are encouraging you to be “fearless”. “Shake it off” and “speak now”; call the instructional technology department, but not at “Midnight.” It’s not “folklore”; we are here to help now and “Evermore.”  Just as Taylor Swift navigates the intricate notes of the music industry, and Kelce scores a touchdown on the field, you too can elevate your game and conquer your technological challenges.   Hopefully, we got your attention with our T-Swift montage, now for the recruiting part.  Please join millions around the world in celebrating  Computer Science Education Week . The week of December 4-10 is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn more about Computer Science, advocate for equity, and celebrate contributions to the field. Even though Computer Science Education Week and the  Hour of Code  are taking place December 4-10, we are designating the whole month of December for teachers and students to participate. This could be a great way to engage your students on those last few days before vacation.  Reach out to the Instructional Technology Team to help you plan an activity or for classroom support with your students when you do the lesson. To help inspire you we would like to provide you with resources dedicated to computer science and technology that promote the Digital Learning Computer Science standards and high-quality instructional practice.   Check out our  DLCS Toolbox  for ideas and lessons to increase student choice and lesson engagement We have linked several more resources below.  We encourage you to select what works best for your needs as an adult learner and to discuss what you learn with your colleagues. Watch something: Computer Careers are Out of This World Technology Skills for Today’s Job Market How to Run an Hour of Code (Code.org) Listen to something 10-Minute Teacher Podcast with Cool Cat Teacher Practical, Awesome AI: Unlocking the Power of Bing Chat Enterprise The Future is Now: Preparing Our Youngest Scholars for a Digital World Transformative Principal Podcast AI and the Future of Education: Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence with Priten Shah Transformative Principal 562 Read Something Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning Insights and Recommendations  U.S. Department of Education Article from May 2023 Differentiated Learning and Technology: A Powerful Combination  From Education Leadership, June 2023 Encouraging Meaningful Reflection With Creative Digital Tools  from Edutopia, Nov. 2023 Discovery Education Northborough Elementary Resources Professional Learning Opportunities Getting Started with Canva for Education Free workshops with CSforMA CSFirst resources TEQ free online workshops Trottier Tech Professional Learning Modules  (a work in progress) Melican Middle School Ed Tech Resources Coming Soon!!! - March PD Day Co-designing Lessons with Artificial Intelligence with Greg Kuleweic As stated in  DESE's Educational Vision  learning experiences should be relevant, real-world, and interactive and should align with Massachusetts curriculum frameworks.  As part of our strategic vision and school improvement plans, we have made a concerted effort to embrace the Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science standards.  Our dedicated efforts are focused on ensuring that all students, from K to 12, acquire the skills necessary to proficiently utilize technology, enabling them to solve problems, communicate effectively, and collaborate seamlessly. This vision is a collective responsibility shared among all educators and administrators. The top priority of the Instructional Technology Team is to support the achievement of this vision. We are committed to assisting you in integrating the DLCS standards into your teaching, fostering the creation of lessons that are not only relevant, real-world, and interactive but also empower students to excel.  2.  2023-2024 Wellness Days - Your Feedback is Appreciated The District is seeking feedback on Wellness Days. Please participate in the survey below (Click the image). KEY LINKS FOR EDUCATORS Calendars Educator Resources Prek - 12 DESE Resources District Calendar High-Quality Instructional Practices DESE ELAR Website Wellness Days UDL Cast DESE MASS Literacy Educator Evaluation Massachusetts Partnership for Youth DESE DLCS Literacy Standards TeachPoint NSboro DLCS ToolBox DESE Standards Navigator "What to Look For"  Observational Guide s CASEL 3 Signature Practices MA DESE Recertification Guidelines 2023-2024 Educator Evaluc Process S tudent Support Services:  What’s the Buzz Curriculum Frameworks 2023-2024 Model Goals SSS and SEL PLC Dates Additional Elementary Resources ELD Dashboard 2023-24 PK-5  ELA Hub PK-8 Assessment and PD Calendar K-5  Math Curriculum Documents Vision 2026 & 2023-24 Action Plan K-5  ST Math Professional Learning Opportunities K-5  Second Step Resources K-5  Math Resource Webpage K-5 Social Studies Unit Maps [Monday, Nov 27 at 3:07 PM] Good Afternoon, It appears that this morning's communication did not through for many. I'm resending. Thanks, Greg

    Monday, Nov 27 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, Novembe...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - Tuesday, November 21, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect ARHS Seniors tackle the Jacob's Ladder high element at the ARHS Ropes Course. Both students made it to the top and signed their names on the beam. The ARHS Health and Fitness Department incorporates the ropes course into its program of studies. What you can't observe in the picture are the students below, belaying as part of a larger team. Table of Contents: 1. Thanksgiving Break - Wednesday, November 22, 2023 Early Release Schedule 2. Feedback Welcomed - District Wellness Days 3. Congratulations - Albert S. Woodward Memorial School 4. Northborough/Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November 5. Upcoming School Committee Meetings Parent(s) and Guardian(s), On behalf of the District, I hope that families have a wonderful Thanksgiving break. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to serve as the superintendent and believe it is an honor and privilege to serve in the role. I do want to remind families that Wednesday, November 22, 2023, is an early release day and the District will follow its Early Release Schedule. Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools Feedback Welcomed - District Wellness days The District is seeking feedback on Wellness Days. Please participate in the survey below (Click the image). Congratulations Albert S. Woodward Memorial School Congratulations to Albert S. Woodward Memorial School for being named by U.S. News & World Report as the number one ranked elementary school in Massachusetts. Margaret A. Neary Elementary School was also ranked at number thirty-two and Lincoln Street Elementary School at number forty-four. Although school-specific rankings, it is a testament to all of our schools as the curricula, philosophies, and goals are consistent. As I communicated when Algonquin Regional High School was ranked nationally and at the state level as one of the best high schools in Massachusetts, it’s a testament to the cumulation of efforts from PreK-12. I also want to point out that rankings are nice but don’t tell the whole story. Again, congratulations.  US News & World Report ranks Massachusetts elementary schools, with suburbs west of Boston leading the way By Jeremy C. Fox Globe Staff Northborough/Southborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November November is Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) awareness month. Every public school district in Massachusetts is required to establish a SEPAC. Massachusetts state law assigns both an advisory and participatory function to SEPACs. Membership is offered to all parents of children with disabilities and other interested parties. The Northborough/Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) welcomes parents and guardians of children ages 3-22 with special needs and learning differences in the Northborough and Southborough School Districts. The NSPAC provides information to parents so they can learn about available resources, services, and programs. Parents are able to share concerns and hear suggestions. The NSPAC exists to help parents feel supported and create a network. Recently, NSPAC, in partnership with other SEPACs, held a parent workshop on Bullying, What Parents Need to Know : A free virtual workshop, presented by the Federation of Children with Special Needs. To view the presentation and upcoming events, please visit NSPAC's website at https://www.nspac.org/calendar . Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, December 6, 2023 Combined Open Meeting (All four committees) - Agenda TBD 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM In-Person ARHS Library 79 Bartlett Street Northborough, MA 01532 Northborough School Committee Meeting -  Agenda TBD 7:00 PM - In-Person ARHS Library 79 Bartlett Street Northborough, MA 01532 Key Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Parent and Community Organizations

    Tuesday, Nov 21 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, Novembe...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - Tuesday, November 14, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect The Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 helped lead Lincoln Street Elementary School's Veterans Day assembly on Friday, November 10, 2023. In addition to the Legion, Veterans related to Lincoln Street Elementary School students attended. Table of Contents: 1. GonkStage Presents - The Addams Family - Nov. 16, 17, and 18 @ 7:00 PM 2. Northborough/Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November 3. Upcoming School Committee Meetings 4. Algonquin Track is Open Evenings - Mon. - Thurs. 2:45 PM - 7:00 PM (Lighted) Parent(s) and Guardian(s), GonkStage at ARHS is presenting their fall musical, The Addams Family, on November 16, 17, and 18 at 7 PM in the ARHS auditorium. The musical is fun for all ages! Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults and can be purchased by going to https://www.vancoevents.com/us/events/landing/36691 . All tickets must be purchased online. No cash will be accepted at the door, but tickets can be purchased online up to the start of the performance each night.  Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools Northborough/Southborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November November is Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) awareness month. Every public school district in Massachusetts is required to establish a SEPAC. Massachusetts state law assigns both an advisory and participatory function to SEPACs. Membership is offered to all parents of children with disabilities and other interested parties. The Northborough/Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) welcomes parents and guardians of children ages 3-22 with special needs and learning differences in the Northborough and Southborough School Districts. The NSPAC provides information to parents so they can learn about available resources, services, and programs. Parents are able to share concerns and hear suggestions. The NSPAC exists to help parents feel supported and create a network. Recently, NSPAC, in partnership with other SEPACs, held a parent workshop on Bullying, What Parents Need to Know : A free virtual workshop, presented by the Federation of Children with Special Needs. To view the presentation and upcoming events, please visit NSPAC's website at https://www.nspac.org/calendar . Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, November 15, 2023 Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee Meeting -  Agenda 6:15 PM - In Person (Rotunda) 6:30 PM - In Person (Library)  Algonquin Regional High School  79 Bartlett Street Northborough, MA 01532 Key Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Parent and Community Organizations

    Tuesday, Nov 14 2023

  • Informational Update: ARHS Track is Open

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s): The stadium track is  now open  for use by students, staff, and the wider community. I’m asking for your assistance in communicating this information to the larger community and for your continued patience as work continues on the grandstand, the amphitheater, and the ramps and walkways around the complex. I anticipate Phase One of the project to be completed by mid to late December. Important details about the track use: Hours of use:  The track is available for community use during the following days and times until further notice. The limited schedule for access is below. The stadium field hours of use are: Saturday and Sunday: from sunrise to sunset Monday-Thursday: from 2:45 pm-7:00 pm (stadium lights will remain on until 7:00 pm) Friday: from 2:45 pm until sunset Entrance:  Access to the stadium field is currently limited to the entrance near the amenities building (a.k.a. "the McDonald’s building"). All other access points will remain locked to ensure the safety of the area. I appreciate your patience as the District works to finalize this exciting project, which will benefit all members of the community.  Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Quick Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Sign Up for ParentSquare to Receive School and District Communications Click Below to Sign Up for: Parent and Community Organizations

    Friday, Nov 10 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, Novembe...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - Tuesday, November 7, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect Congratulations to the Algonquin Regional High School Girls Soccer Team for their 1-0 victory over Lexington High School. Titans move on to the Round of 16 vs the winner of Franklin/Westford Academy. Day & Time = TBA. Tickets must be purchased in advance through http://GoFan.co .  (Photo Credit: Mike Mocerino) Table of Contents: 1. ARHS AP Report Card 2. Northborough-Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November 3. Upcoming School Committee Meetings 4. Thank You to Veterans in the Community Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools Northborough/Southborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) Month - November November is Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) awareness month. Every public school district in Massachusetts is required to establish a SEPAC. Massachusetts state law assigns both an advisory and participatory function to SEPACs. Membership is offered to all parents of children with disabilities and other interested parties. The Northborough/Southborough Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC)  welcomes parents and guardians of children ages 3-22 with special needs and learning differences in the Northborough and Southborough School Districts. The NSPAC provides information to parents so they can learn about available resources, services, and programs. Parents are able to share concerns and hear suggestions. The NSPAC exists to help parents feel supported and create a network. Recently, NSPAC, in partnership with other SEPACs, held a parent workshop on Bullying, What Parents Need to Know : A free virtual workshop, presented by the Federation of Children with Special Needs. To view the presentation and upcoming events, please visit NSPAC's website at https://www.nspac.org/calendar . Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, November 15, 2023 Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee Meeting 6:30 PM - In Person    Algonquin Regional High School Library 79 Bartlett Street Northborough, MA 01532 Thank You to Veterans in the Community The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough would like to thank all of the Veterans who live and work in the towns of Northborough and Southborough. Schools across our three Districts are observing Veterans Day in a variety of ways, from hosting assemblies to learning about the history of Veterans Day. Many of the students will be engaged in school assemblies this Friday.  (To learn more about the history of Veterans Day, please visit the  U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ) Quick Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Sign Up for ParentSquare to Receive School and District Communications Click Below to Sign Up for: Parent and Community Organizations

    Tuesday, Nov 07 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, October...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - October 31, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect Woodward Elementary students begin their "Color Run" on Friday afternoon, October 27, 2023. The event was a wonderful partnership between parents, SOS, educators, and students. A picture is worth a thousand words and the students were all smiles. Well done Woodward. Table of Contents: 1. Story Bridge - An Amazing Success 2. Teaching and Learning Updates 3. Upcoming School Committee Meetings Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s), On Thursday, October 19, the District hosted its annual Story Bridge Event, where ten storytellers shared their stories on the stage. Community members, faculty, staff, and students did an amazing job presenting their stories. The goal of the event is to learn more about our community members, colleagues, and students and there is no better way than to hear their stories. If you missed the event, I encourage you to watch the recording (Click on the image below). Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools Teaching and Learning Information In keeping with  Vision 2026: Educate, Inspire, Challenge , our District strategic plan, we regularly assess our curricular resources to ensure we provide students with rigorous, coherent learning experiences.  At times, the District determines that we need to adopt new curriculum resources to support students in learning the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.  We are pleased to share information about new curriculum resources or course offerings that we have incorporated in recent years. Pre-School Focus on Early Learning Our main integrated curriculum is the  Focus on Pre-K  curriculum which facilitates powerful learning experiences for three and four-year-olds. The  Focus on Pre-K  curriculum was developed by Boston Public Schools and supports children's development across intellectual, social-emotional, and physical domains, addressing State learning standards in Approaches to Play and Learning, English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science and Engineering, and integrating the Arts in child-driven and teacher-guided learning experiences.   National research   has identified Focus on Pre-K as one of the strongest, most consistently proven interventions for closing the achievement gap. Resources to learn more about: Focus on Early Learning Building Blocks Building Blocks™  embeds mathematical learning in PreK students’ daily activities—from designated math activities to circle and story time—to relate informal math knowledge to formal concepts. Resources to learn more about Building Blocks Al’s Pals: Kids Making Healthy Choices Our teachers use Al’s Pals to help develop the foundation our children need for success in school and life by promoting social–emotional skills such as self-control, problem-solving, relationship building, and healthy decision-making in children ages 3-6.  Al’s Pals is highly regarded as an evidence-based model prevention program, Al’s Pals is endorsed by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) and the National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning. Resources to learn more about Al’s Pals English Language Arts (ELA) Gr K - 5 - Wit & Wisdom   Wit & Wisdom  is a highly-rated ELA curriculum resource that we have adopted for grades K-5.  Wit & Wisdom  is a knowledge-building curriculum that promotes rich academic discourse through integrated reading, speaking, listening, and writing experiences.  Students will engage in thematic units focused on compelling topics and using rich texts.  For example,  while kindergarten is studying  The Five Senses  with the essential question, “How do senses help us learn?” fourth graders are engaged in a module called  Great Heart  with the essential question, “What does it mean to have a great heart, literally and figuratively?” Resources to learn more about  Wit & Wisdom Introduction to  Wit & Wisdom  in Nsboro Schools Family Tip Sheets and Multilingual Glossaries Wit & Wisdom’s  Approach EdReports Rating of  Wit & Wisdom Frequently Asked Questions about  Wit & Wisdom  in NSboro Form to submit a question about  Wit & Wisdom   Mathematics Gr K - 5 - ST Math ST Math is a digital learning platform used in our K-5 classrooms to supplement our core curriculum, enVisions. ST Math’s patented approach to manipulating objects in space and time is totally unique in the market. The program starts by teaching the foundational concepts visually and then connects the ideas to the symbols, language, and robust discourse. Why does this approach work so well? With visual learning, students are better equipped to tackle unfamiliar math problems, recognize patterns, and build conceptual understanding. Without language barriers, the problem is accessible to all students, regardless of skill level or language background. ST Math Resources for parents/ guardians and families Mathematics Gr 6-8 - Carnegie Math We are excited to adopt a highly-rated resource for our middle school mathematics program, Carnegie Learning Math.  Carnegie Learning provides a blended approach that includes collaborative, problem-solving and mathematical discourse through MATHbook lessons as well as individualized, digital learning experiences through, MATHia©, an adaptive math program.  Using the Carnegie Math program, teachers will continue to align their courses to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.  Resources to learn more about Carnegie Math. Introduction to Carnegie in Nsboro Schools Carnegie’s Approach EdReports Rating of Carnegie Form to submit a question about Carnegie Math Frequently Asked Questions about Carnegie Math in Nsboro     Social Emotional Learning K-8 - Second Step I n the area of Social Emotional Learning, we have been working to develop greater coherence across the K-8 continuum so that students are using consistent vocabulary and strategies to develop social-emotional competencies. Therefore, we are excited to utilize  Second Step ®, as a curriculum resource for K-8 students.   Second Step ® is an evidence-based curriculum that systematically and explicitly teaches age-appropriate social skills including bullying prevention.   Second Step ® is aligned with the CASEL® framework for social and emotional learning and provides connections for families and extended-day programs.   Resources to learn more about Social Emotional Learning and  Second Step ®   Introduction to  Second Step ®  in NSboro Schools CASEL® (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning)  CASEL® 5 core competencies CASEL ®  review of  Second Step ®  and  Research Behind Second Step®  Frequently Asked Questions about  Second Step ® in NSboro Form to submit a question about  Second Step ® Suicide Prevention Program - Gr 7-12 -  Signs of Suicide As part of our district’s focus on student health and wellness, we are implementing the updated Signs of Suicide (SOS) program.  This is an evidence-based educational program that focuses on suicide prevention in adolesce nts.  SOS is a program approved by the MA Department of Public Health and has been shown to reduce the risk of suicide in middle and high school students.  We will be using this updated resource in our middle and high school during one health or PE class.  Signs of Suicide teaches  students to identify signs of depression and suicidality in themselves and others, and are taught how to seek help from an adult. This program is taught as a piece of our wellness programming to support healthy and balanced learners.  Families and students will receive information in the weeks leading up to the program and will be provided with opportunities to choose not to participate in the program.  Resources to learn more about Suicide Prevention and  Signs of Suicide (SOS) ®  Signs of Suicide® Program   Introduction to  Signs of Suicide ® in NSboro Schools Signs of Suicide ® Parent/Caregiver Handout Frequently Asked Questions about  Signs of Suicide ® in NSboro Form to submit a question about  Signs of Suicide ® Course Highlights at Algonquin: Portuguese for Heritage Speakers : These  courses are designed for students who speak Portuguese as a heritage language or at the recommendation of the department chair. A heritage speaker speaks and/or understands Portuguese as a result of the language being the primary language of the home. These courses are aimed at students who already speak Portuguese and are looking to improve their literacy skills in the language. Students will develop their language in an academic setting that is grounded in reading and writing. The goal is to help heritage speakers develop advanced language and literacy skills and connect with their heritage culture. The course is conducted in Portuguese. English Language Development (ELD) The English Language Development teachers are implementing new high-quality  resources for our Multilingual Learners in Kindergarten through Grade 8.  Kindergarten is in the first year of implementing  Reach for the Stars ; grades 1 through 5 are in the second year of implementing  Reach Higher;  and grades 6 through 8  are in the second year of implementing  Lift  and  Impact . These resources by National Geographic Learning  guide students to learn English, learn about the world, and learn about themselves through authentic content with a global perspective. Links to learn more about the resources: Reach for the Stars  (Kindergarten) Reach Higher  (Grades 1-5) Lift  and  Impact  (Grades 6-8) Form to submit a question about ELD Resources Ancient Healers, Modern Medicine, & the Power of Connection  In this semester-long course, students will explore various cultural traditions, beliefs, customs, medicines, and healing methods from the prehistoric age to the modern era with a focus on the global impact of health and healing. Students will study the wellness traditions, beliefs, and practices of a variety of cultures including prehistoric medicine, traditions of the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, and indigenous groups such as Native Americans, Aztecs, Incas, and Aboriginal peoples. The course will also explore modern medicine, alternative medicine, and the modern wellness industry as students seek to understand human well-being and the traditions and practices of keeping ourselves healthy. Students will examine the real-life applications of the skills and techniques used by our ancestors to connect the mind and body and promote overall health and healing. This interactive course will be project-driven and will include presentations and discussions.   Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, November 1, 2023 Northborough School Committee Meeting 6:30 PM - In Person - Agenda - Melican Middle School Library 145 Lincoln Street Northborough, MA 01532 Quick Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Sign Up for ParentSquare to Receive School and District Communications Click Below to Sign Up for: Parent and Community Organizations

    Sunday, Oct 29 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, October...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - October 24, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect Principal Jennifer Callaghan (Lincoln Street Elementary School) and Officer Stephen Sullivan, Northborough's School Resource Office, talk with first-grade students about the ways students can be safe. Principal Callaghan and Officer Sullivan held 'Safety Chats' with all of the grade levels at Lincoln. Table of Contents: 1. The importance of Fine and Performing Arts 2. The Beat - O ctober Issue 3. Algonquin Regional High School Athletic Complex Update 4. Upcoming School Committee Meetings 5. Bullying: What Parents Need to Know - A Free Virtual Workshop - NSPAC Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s), A critical aspect of a child’s educational journey is their experience in the fine and performing arts. The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough educators focus on these domains play a critical role in the learning process. Their work helps students reduce stress and anxiety, develop inter and intrapersonal skills, develop passions for the arts, develop critical and creative thinking skills, improve academic achievement, and identify lifelong avocations.  In addition to what is often observed by educators and parents, there is empirical evidence to support the tremendous impact the arts have. The  Brookings Institute  conducted research on the impact of arts and concluded what we all know to be true: Engagement with art is crucial for the human experience from a young age and has multiple benefits. Arts participation among adults is linked to greater civic engagement, social tolerance, and altruistic behavior. Students in schools with increased arts education funding showed a reduction in disciplinary infractions, improved writing scores, and increased compassion for others. The study also found positive impacts on school engagement, college aspirations, and empathy when analyzing elementary schools. The findings demonstrate that arts education positively impacts academic and social development. Arts play a vital role in developing well-rounded individuals and promoting democratic values in education In the spirit of this week’s message, I’ve linked the BEAT, a District-wide monthly newsletter celebrating many of the events and successes of our students. Fine and Performing Arts is not a 'nice to have' but a 'must have' for our students. Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools The Beat - October Issue Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, November 1, 2023 Northborough School Committee Meeting 6:30 PM - In Person (Agenda Published 10/27/23) Melican Middle School Library 145 Lincoln Street Northborough, MA 01532 Algonquin Regional High School Athletic Complex Update Algonquin Regional High School Field Hockey Team plays at ARHS for the first time in eight years. The team wore pink to raise awareness about Breast Cancer. Photo Credit: ARHS Principal Sean Bevan. On a warm fall night, community members were playing Pickleball, and the Algonquin Regional High School Girl’s Soccer Team was warming up on the new Algonquin multipurpose field under the lights. It’s great to see students and community members begin to gain access to the community investment in the new complex. Although portions have been opened, more work remains in the weeks ahead. At a Project Team Meeting last week, we learned that the stadium would be available in the spring season, not this November. There is a delay in the press box construction, and substantial completion will be issued once the press box is installed. Although we entered the school year with the hope that the stadium field would be ready for use for a few athletic events, unfortunately, that hope has been extinguished.  On the positive side, the basketball court is anticipated to open in early November, and all spring athletic competitions will occur at the ‘GonkPlex.’ Here’s a more specific summary of the work that remains: Track and Field Schedule Week of 10/16 - Grandstand delivery and mobilization Week of 11/3 - Track completion Week of 11/6 - Parking lot and walks in and around the grandstand Week of 11/20 - Anticipated completion Week of 11/30 - Anticipated completion (Includes Press Box) Tennis, Pickleball, and Basketball Courts Week of 10/23 - Basketball Court Painting  Week of 11/6 - Basketball Court is accessible to students and the community  Multipurpose Field: Week of 11/2 - Installation of amphitheater Quick Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Sign Up for ParentSquare to Receive School and District Communications Click Below to Sign Up for: Parent and Community Organizations

    Tuesday, Oct 24 2023

  • Informational Update from ARHS: Parent/Guardian Nigh...

    Good morning, My name is Sean Bevan, and I am the principal of Algonquin Regional High School. I am reaching out today for your feedback as I look for ways to better serve the families of our soon-to-be rising ninth graders. Historically, we have organized an evening each Fall - around this time - to provide 8th grade parents with an overview of our school, including a brief presentation by the principal and Guidance Department staff, a tour of the school building, and a chance to meet and ask questions to our department heads. That event, "8th Grade Parent/Guardian Night", was previously scheduled for this Thursday, October 19. We encountered a scheduling conflict, so I  have postponed this event , which may have been published on the District calendar and through some updates from Superintendent Martineau.  I am using this postponement as an opportunity to find out what your needs and interests are as I plan ahead. Your feedback will be helpful to me in planning what this event may look like next. The purpose of "8th Grade Parent/Guardian Night" has been to educate parents and guardians about our school, which is especially helpful for those considering enrolling their child in an area vocational or private school. However, the anecdotal feedback I have received is that the value of the evening is limited for those families that already have (or have had) a child at ARHS and those families that are not considering enrolling in a school other than Algonquin. Worth noting, each February, we invite parents and guardians to attend an evening presentation summarizing the course selection process, which begins soon after. And, in the first week of the new school year, we provide an orientation presentation to parents/guardians on the same evening that students participate in Freshman Orientation activities.  And so, I am considering shifting how we educate our rising ninth grade families so that our programs best meet your needs, including: how the presentations are delivered,  what information we share, and  when that information would be most useful to parents and guardians.  If you would, please complete THIS BRIEF FORM to share your feedback, which will be helpful for me and my team as we plan events to ensure that you are feeling comfortable and informed about your child's next year.  You may skip any question at any time. This form will close on Tuesday, October 17 at noon.  I look forward to meeting you someday soon and to partnering with you on your child's education. Please let me know if you have any questions.  Sincerely, Sean Bevan Principal, ARHS

    Monday, Oct 16 2023

  • Informational Update: NSboro News - Tuesday, October...

    The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough NSboro News - October 10, 2023 Educate, Inspire, Challenge Empathy - Equity - Inclusivity - Integrity - Perseverance - Respect Elementary students across the District participated in the International Walk to School Day on October 4, 2023. Photo credit - Proctor Principal Stacy Mahoney. Table of Contents: 1 . Testing District's Emergency Alert System  2. Story Bridge - Save the Date 3. Upcoming School Committee Meetings 4. NSPAC - Parent Virtual Workshop - Bullying: What Parents Need to Know 5. Hispanic Heritage Month Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s), On Friday morning, October 13, 2023, at 10:00 AM, the District will test its emergency alert system.  Parents and guardians will receive an emergency alert message from the District’s unified communication system, Parent Square. The default send methods are text, voice, and email. The message will state: “ This is a test of The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough Emergency Alert System. Emergency alerts will only be used in emergencies such as natural disasters or critical threats. Again, this is a test.” Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools Story Bridge - Save the Date Upcoming School Committee Meetings Wednesday, October 11, 2023 Southborough School Committee Meeting 49 Parkerville Road Southborough, MA  01772 6:30 PM - Trottier Middle School Library Hispanic Heritage Month Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community. Beginning in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as “Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon Johnson, but it was later extended to a month during President Ronald Reagan’s term in 1988. Since then, the month has been celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and much more. The month also celebrates the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15th, Mexico on September 16th, and Chile on September 18th. They also include holidays recognizing Hispanic contributions, such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day, celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Quick Links Subscribe to NSBORO News School Safety Student Calendar Northborough School Committee Southborough School Committee Regional School Committee Say Something  Anonymous Reporting System Transportation School Closings and Delays Now Hiring Substitutes District-Wide Calendar of Events Sign Up for ParentSquare to Receive School and District Communications Sign Up for: Parent and Community Organizations

    Tuesday, Oct 10 2023

  • Informational Update: Halloween Parade

    Dear Northborough Elementary Parent(s) and Guardian(s): At the Wednesday, October 4, 2023, Northborough School Committee meeting, the Committee requested that I revisit the decision to shift the traditional Halloween parade to after school. The principals and I have taken the time to read the emails from Northborough parents and citizens. With the feedback we received, we recognize that, with this decision, the District did not seek input and share its process with families. We acknowledge the importance of engaging families in the discussions around the parade. As the principals and I reconsidered, we took a “Yes and” decision-making approach -  Having an in-school Halloween parade and   ensuring that :  Students have options if they are not planning to participate in the parade, whether from being scared of costumes and anxious about marching in a parade or Halloween not being aligned with family beliefs.  The twenty-minute Halloween parade does not consume an afternoon of getting students organized and into costume.  Elementary students and families who enjoy the parade can continue the tradition. As a result, the principals and I have decided to hold Halloween parades at each Northborough elementary school. I will share that the parades will be shifted to the  first twenty minutes of the school day , not the last, and there will be alternatives for students who don’t want to participate. Principals will be sharing specific details with parents and guardians in a future communication.  I appreciate the Northborough parents' and citizens' feedback and those who communicated their perspectives respectfully, thoughtfully, and civilly. The principals and I do listen and value feedback. Respectfully, Gregory L. Martineau Superintendent of Schools               

    Friday, Oct 06 2023