Winter 2014 - Holyoke Public Schools

Connections
Holyoke Publ ic School s
Holyoke Public Schools
Volume 12, Issue 2
A Community Working Together
Winter 2014
An Open Letter to the Holyoke School Community
Student
Artist:
We are Transforming Lives
Amanda Barta,
Holyoke High
Drawing and
Painting Class
By Dr. Sergio Páez, Superintendent of Schools
First, I want to thank you for all your
work and dedication. We all have been working
really hard to make a difference in our students’
lives. Six months does not sound like much, but we
are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Our students are connecting with us more and we
are making them more curious and engaged every
day.
What we need to do to transform our
district is to have a “laser-like” commitment to high
academic achievement -- every day building our
expectations of our students and understanding
more and more how they learn. Remember, it is
only when you capture their attention, that you will
be able to engage them in your teaching. The first
step is to make the right curriculum choices to make
the content relevant and meaningful to them. The
Core Curriculum is a great point of reference. Essential elements include math, reading and writing at
the appropriate grade level; and the differentiation
for high achievers and other diverse learners. These
are critical to building the skills students need to
become academically successful.
collaboration and provide meaningful feedback to
our students, they will be better able to understand
the purpose and relevance of the content learned.
Our next steps are to ensure that 100%
of our content is being delivered in a way that is
learned by every student and that the support systems available are aligned with the support needed
for Tier II or III instruction. Now, after many hours
of professional development and alignment of use of
staff and curriculum, I am hopeful that our students
will be more engaged and ready to learn. It is not
acceptable to have only 13% proficiency for third
grade students and only 2% and 4% proficiency for
Special Education Students (SPEDs) and English Language Learners (ELLs), respectively.
We are looking at every opportunity to
support our teachers and ensure they have all the
materials and resources needed to transform our
district. Despite the fact that we are making significant changes, the chronic underperforming status of
our district requires a more aggressive approach to
reverse the trends. We are only six months into a
journey that will lead us to be true to our commitment as educators to develop all the potential our
students possess. As I have said a few times, there is
no job more noble than that of educating the next
generation of Americans. We are the guardians of
the American promise of education as the biggest
equalizer in a society where millions of immigrants
have come to our shores to make this country what
it is today.
An important aspect of our work is the
constant assessment of the teaching we do. I would
recommend a more informal method rather than
our traditional standardized tests to make sure
learning is taking place for students all the time.
Keep in mind if they are not learning, we are not
teaching. A significant area that is requiring specific
attention from us is the writing component -- writing every day and writing well. This is regardless of
the skill level of the student. Our
students need to be encouraged and
expected to read and write every
day. Lastly we need to make sure
we develop, as a team (grade or
content team), a clear definition of
proficiency. This definition must
match what is perceived as proficient
when compared with state standards.
I want to thank all the
instructional teams in the schools for
their dedication and commitment to the transformation of
E.N. White participants at Western Districts' Tryouts include (Left to
our schools. All this meaningright): Feroze Sibdhanny, Taina Reyes, Hali'a Pamaylaon, Erica Cabrera,
ful collaboration with teachers
Zoe Brazeau, Anna Price, Aracelis Acevedo, Joseph Lebron and Tyler
and administrators is beginning
Guertin. (Read about the Western Districts’ Tryouts on page 3).
to pay off. Once we define this
Inside this issue:
Announcements
2
School News
3-12
After School
12
Athletics
10
Spanish
13-16
Edition Highlights:
● Kelly Literacy Parties
● Parent ESOL Classes
● Three Kings Day
● E.N. White Competing
at Western Districts
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 2
Mission
Statement
Holyoke School
Committee
Mayor Alex Morse
Dennis Birks
Erin Brunelle
Visit the Holyoke Public Schools website to view schedule: Attention!
http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us/schoolcommittee.htm
For Grades K-12—All events start at 6:30
Title 1 Family Nights
The mission of the
Holyoke Public
Schools is to provide
educational
opportunities for all
students to reach
their full potential in a
safe, secure, healthy
learning environment
while valuing diversity
and promoting
responsible
citizenship.
School Committee Meetings
March 4
Dr. Seuss Night
E.N. White School
March 5
Dr. Seuss Night
McMahon School
March 6
Dr. Seuss Night
Sullivan School
ENGLISH
CLASSES
FOR
PARENTS
March 7
Dr. Seuss Night
Metcalf School
March 12
Dr. Seuss Night
Kelly School
March 18
Dr. Seuss Night
Morgan School
English for March 19
Dr. Seuss Night
Lawrence School
Speakers of April 2
Transition Night
Donahue School
Other Languages April 2
Bingo for Books
E,N. White School
(ESOL) Classes April 3
Bingo for Books
Sullivan School
for parents on April 15
Family Game Night McMahon School
April 29
Math in a Bag
Kelly School
April 30
Bingo for Books
Morgan School
Read about our page 7.
John Brunelle
William Collamore
Mildred Lefebvre
Cesar Lopez
Devin Sheehan
Rosalee Tensley
Williams
Special Education Advisory Council (SEPAC) Meetings
Please join other concerned parents at our upcoming meetings for the 2013-2014
school year. There is strength in numbers and support from others who are sharing
similar experiences. Our combined efforts can influence the success of our children,
as well as shape their futures.
UPCOMING MEETINGS—6:00 PM at Lawrence School
March 3, 2014: OT/PT/Speech “Make and Take Activities”
May 5, 2014: Overview of Summer Program Offerings
Read More at http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us/pdf/announcements/SEPAC.pdf
Contact: Kelly- [email protected] or Dawn- [email protected]
Deadline for
article submissions to be included in the
Connections
Newsletter
Spring Edition:
March 7, 2014.
Connections Newsletter
Edited by Judy Taylor [email protected]
Editors Emeritus: Kelly Doktor and Laura DuPont
Translated by: Luz Aguillar and Jacqueline Escalera
“The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work.” ‒Harry Golden
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Volume 12, Issue 2
E. N. White
Supporting Children at Shriners
By Tammy Lawrence
The Shriners Hospitals for Children
operate 18 hospitals throughout the US, Canada
and Mexico for children with orthopedic issues
and burns. Shriners Hospitals are open to all
children until their 18th birthday. All medical
treatment is administered without cost to the
patient or their families.
In order to help the local Springfield,
MA Shriners’ Hospital with patient comfort and
healthy healing, the E.N. White Middle School
Student Council, led by Guidance Counselor,
Mrs. Vickie Brown, communicated the need for
brand new children’s books to students and staff
for their Read to Read Program. Hospital volunteers will have the opportunity to read a donated book (or part of a donated book) to the patient. The patient will then be able to take the
book home when they are healthy enough to
return and where they may enjoy it again and
again! Over three dozen brand new books for
children of all ages, (from Pete the Cat to Diary of
a Wimpy Kid) were donated and delivered for
this outstanding Read to Read Program!
In order to help the Shriners’ Hospital
with funding, the Middle School Council, led by
the Tiger Pride Community Organization
(TPCO), communicated the need for pull-tabs or
pop-tops. A collection jar for these pop-tops is
always located in the hallway at the main entrance of the school throughout the entire year.
The Shriners’ Hospitals have been collecting
these pop-tops from beverage cans since 1989.
They recycle them and put the money towards
any program or activity that will directly benefit
the children at the Shriners Hospital. Along with
the books, an entire two-gallon container of pop
-tops were delivered to the Hospital by Mrs.
Vicki Brown.
Page 3
Middle School Hoops Have Arrived! experiences, one idea of fencing seems to always
remain constant: Fencing is regarded as more
By Hilary Russell and Tammy Lawrence
In years prior, there were few schools
who fielded a middle school basketball team.
Now, however, the Holyoke Public Schools have
an official middle school basketball league that
involves all seven K-8 schools.
Hilary Russell, Principal at E.N. White,
and Tom Drohan, Assistant Principal, spearheaded the formation of this league through contact
with Springfield College’s Dr. Matthew Pantera,
the Department Chair of the Sports Management
and Recreation Program, to utilize Sports Management graduate students to help create a basketball league at the middle school level. Each K8 school came on board with a point person, and
Jeremiah Barrett, a teacher at Peck School, has
taken on many responsibilities, including coaching
the Peck team, refereeing games, and taking over
the official Holyoke Middle School Hoops website.
Now, with the help of five Springfield
College student interns, Joe Van Huysen, Ron
Alston, Ryan Despasquale, Jim Mack and Fan Li,
we are off to a great start! Teachers and parents
have stepped up to support this valuable connection between schools, working as coaches and
referees. The season has become a very positive
experience for numerous middle school students
and families throughout the district! Each Friday,
Peck School’s gymnasium is filled with supportive
family and friends rooting for their teams. The
district is supplying a bus to pick up the teams at
the schools for the 4:00 P.M. and the 5:00 P.M.
games.
E.N.White’s team of eighteen students
were able to design their uniform tank –including
style, colors as well as size and placement of the
school’s Tiger Mascot. Once the design was
finalized, the TPCO invested in the uniforms.
The E.N. White Team formally practices several
times each week in the gym under the direction
of three volunteer parent coaches. The team is
currently undefeated and proud to say its home
to two of the league’s Player of the Week recipients: Eliezer Vazquez and Eddie Anderson.
Let the Fencing
Begin!
By Tammy Lawrence
and Hilary Russell
There is a long, diverse
cultural, recorded history of
the sport of fencing from
the days of ancient Egypt
and Rome to the barbaric
Dark Ages and elegant Renaissance Era. Currently
there are modern, increasStudent Council Members: Paola Arce Roldan, Koron Bolden, Rosie ingly popular fencing programs where players practice
Lopez, and Council President, Feroze Sibdhanny.
and prepare for their fencing
bouts at local fencing clubs, colleges as well as
the Olympics. Throughout all these times and
than a sport; it is an art form, an ancient symbol
of power and glory, and a deeply personal and
individual form of self-expression. .
Because fencing can allow individuals
many positive life lessons, E.N. White School has
partnered with Holyoke Parks and Recreation
and started a Fencing Program consisting of six
Middle School students. These students demonstrated a strong desire to practice and play this
fast-paced, athletic and disciplined sport. First,
they volunteered and worked the special election Bake Sale and helped earn (from the supportive Ward 7 voters and E.N. White families)
about $200 to help pay for their team. Next,
they received permission from their families and
arrived prepared and ready at the school’s gym.
Taro Yamashita, the owner and coach
at Riverside Fencing Club, will continue to visit
E.N. White School each Tuesday and teach these
students the history, art and athleticism of the
sport of Fencing. He also currently is the head
coach at UMass, Amherst and also coaches at
Brandeis University. The individuals Taro has
worked with have achieved wonderful successes
from simply having a great time fencing, learning
discipline, building self-esteem and athletic ability
to earning medals in local, regional and national
competitions. Our hope at E.N. White is for our
7th and 8th graders to also develop these valuable
skills, and who knows, maybe some of them will
continue on to competition-level.
Competing at Western Districts
By Dan Rose
On Saturday December 7th, the E.N.
White Music Department participated in the
MMEA Junior Western District festival held at
Westfield State University. Over sixty schools
throughout Western Massachusetts competed.
Out of the nine students from E.N. White who
auditioned, six placed and were accepted into an
ensemble: Erica Cabrera (Grade 8, Soprano I),
Anna Price (7, Soprano II), TeeJae Reyes (8,
Alto), Joseph Lebron (8, Baritone), and Feroze
Sidbhanny (8, Baritone); lastly, Tyler Guertin was
accepted to chorus for his vocal audition as well
as band for his trumpet audition.
Participation tripled from a year earlier,
when E.N. White sent three choral students to
Western Districts (none placed). Two of those
students – Halia Pamaylaon and TeeJae Reyes –
returned and improved their scores from the
year before. Students participating in Western
Districts dedicated additional time before and
after school to prepare their auditions. Lebron
noted, “We practiced for weeks, [but] it’s actually a fun experience to be there with all your
friends, knowing they made it, too.” He added,
“I think I got the results I did because I really
worked hard for it, and I made a goal for myself
and kept at it.” (Continued on page 10). Also,
see E.N. White article: Students Support the Newly
-Renovated Holyoke Public Library on page 4.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 4
Kelly
Kelly Full Service Community School has
Gone to the Dogs!
By Rebecca Masters
Kelly Full Service Community School was excited to
premiere its new, home-grown program that was initiated this
month: Tails to Read! Tails to Read pairs certified therapy
dogs with struggling readers for weekly reading sessions. Research has proven that the calm, non-judgmental presence of
an animal actually improves reading scores! http://
www.myfoxphilly.com/story/22446581/kids-read-to-dogs-toimprove-reading-skills. So far, Kelly has a small and growing
corps of volunteers and their certified, insured, therapy dogs
to work with students: Lily the Husky, Rosko the Goldendoodle, and Grace the Standard Poodle. They each visit Kelly
School for an hour every week and offer individual reading
times with struggling readers. The handler is asked not to
interrupt unless the student asks for help or the dog needs
help to refocus. We believe Tails to Read will boost the confidence and skills of our participating students!
Kelly Full Service Community School Literacy Parties
By Rebecca Masters
Rosko, a Tails to Read therapy dog listens
attentively to stories read by Kevin and
Isabel.
For more information on Kelly
School’s Tails to Read Program
and Literacy House Parties,
please contact Kelly School
Program Manager,
Rebecca Masters, at
[email protected].
Kelly Full Service Community School is thrilled to announce our newest parent
engagement effort....Literacy House Parties! It’s a 45 minute program that takes place in the
home of a Kelly student to help Kelly parents learn how to support their children’s reading!
A Kelly parent or family member invites other Kelly parents into their home for the Literacy Party—and receives a $50 Stop N' Shop card for hosting. During the party, Kelly School
Reading Interventionists discuss with parents how to understand reading levels, tips for
supporting reading at home, and fun games that can be help young readers. All participating
parents also receive a literacy backpack filled with game supplies, school supplies, and a
book! Party goers also enjoy lunch and get the opportunity to sign up as a host for an upcoming Literacy Party!
E.N. White (continued from page 3).
Students Support the Newly-Renovated Holyoke Public Library
By Tammy Lawrence and Hilary Russell
The Spare Change Drive Holyoke Public Library fundraiser was a wonderful way to empower E.N. White Students and allow them to play a
vital role in helping build the newly restored and expanded Holyoke Public Library (HPL).
With every student donation, each student was given an inspirational READ silicone bracelet and a golden paper brick, courtesy of the Tiger
Pride Community Organization (TPCO). Students that donated were encouraged to decorate and personalize their brick then directed to post them
onto a giant Together We Will Achieve Greatness poster hung within the school’s Book Fair.
Student by student, brick by brick, the poster’s foundation of bricks grew thus symbolizing not only the growth of the Holyoke Library but
the future relationship the students will have with the Library. While the students posted their bricks, they viewed pictures of the Library’s fully restored front entrance as well as the newly built back entrance.
Not only did the Spare Change Drive (with the TPCO donation) earn the HPL over $500, the Tiger Pride Community Organization will
soon fund busing for each grade to visit the Library allowing every student to see first-hand the building they helped revitalize. Upon arrival, every
student will tour the building, learn of the educational opportunities as well as the fun activities their library has to offer them. They will also receive a
library card and have the opportunity to check out a book during their field trip. The benefits of creating these positive student relationships with the
City’s Library will create endless successes throughout their lifetimes.
The E.N. White teachers were able to view the new library when Principal Hilary Russell conducted a monthly staff meeting in the new
Community Room of the Library. Children’s librarian, Jason Lefebvre, gave the teachers a tour of the new facility and teachers engaged in a scavenger
hunt to learn about the different areas of the library. E.N. White is also in the process of planning two evening Family Literacy Nights at the Library so
families can visit the Library, obtain library cards, support their children’s developing love of reading, and enjoy this great resource in their city.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Page 5
Volume 12, Issue 2
Connections
Page 5
Morgan
The Holyoke High School Business Club, led by Mrs. Elizabeth
Butler, took a collection for Morgan School and donated the money so
that Morgan School would be able to buy hats and mittens for our students that could not afford them. Thank you to Mrs. Butler and the Holyoke High Business Club.
Morgan School students remembered our troops serving overseas this holiday season. All 400 students here at Morgan signed a holiday
card and these were sent over to our troops. Mrs. Moriarty’s second
grade class also remembered our soldiers at the Holyoke Soldiers Home
and delivered homemade holiday cards to them.
More About Morgan
The Morgan School Vocal Team performed holiday concerts at the Barnes and Noble Bookstore and at
McDonald’s. The vocal team also showed their appreciation to the Morgan Staff by visiting classrooms throughout
the day and singing “You Have Made a Difference” to
show the staff at Morgan how important they are to the
students and how much they are appreciated.
On November 20, staff and families of Morgan
School celebrated Discover Puerto Rico night. Morgan
families and staff enjoyed music, food, and dancing to celebrate the Puerto Rican heritage. Each classroom researched and created a trifold describing a city in Puerto
Rico and families voted on their favorite display. Congratulations to Mrs. Hobert’s sixth grade classroom for earning the most votes.
On January 10, families came to Morgan School to celebrate
Three Kings Day. Families listened to music and the three kings explained
to the families how important it is to read everyday. Each family who
attended the celebration received a bag of toys and books to read to each
other. The South Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative led by Ed Caisse
also donated eight bicycles that were raffled off. Congratulations to our
eight students who received new bikes to ride when the weather gets
nicer.
Read more about Three Kings Day
celebrations in our district on page 12.
Mrs. Drohan’s, Mrs. Giroux’s, and Mrs. Semidei’s
first grade classroom took up a collection of coloring
books and crayons. These coloring books and crayons
were delivered by Mrs. Semidei to an organization that will
send these items over to Haiti to be distributed to children who are now in orphanages because of the earthquakes that have hit Haiti. Good job Morgan first graders
we are very proud of you.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Page 6
Mcmahon
Connections
Thanks to Our Supporting Community
By Louise Cavanaugh
The third grade students and teachers at McMahon School have a lot to be excited about! We are currently participating in a project with
Enchanted Circle Theater, and have been having great fun while enriching our reading and writing skills! Brando, of Enchanted Circle, knows how to
get everyone up and moving and has enabled the students to realize their creativity. We are looking forward to more great activities in the weeks to
come!
We are also fortunate to be a part of the Link to Libraries program. In addition to receiving books for the students to take home, we are
very lucky to have a volunteer guest reader who visits us on a regular basis. Thank you, Mr. Burch!
We are pleased to announce that we received a grant from the Holyoke Cultural Council to help fund our field trip to old Deerfield in the
spring! As we read,write, and discuss the history of Massachusetts in our Social Studies curriculum, we know that we will be able to experience firsthand one of the rich historical sites of Western Massachusetts. Thank you Holyoke Cultural Council!
By Eileen Martinez
Look Who has Spirit?
The McMahon Spirit Club was established this year by School Counselor Eileen
Martinez and Westfield State Intern Eboni Coombs. The Club's main goal is to promote
school unity and social awareness. Although the club is composed of students in grades
six through eight, the activities and objectives are designed to involve the entire school.
So far this year the club was able to raise nearly $400 in fundraising between
the months of October and December 2013! The students sold snacks, raffle tickets, and
organized events such as Crazy Hair and Pajama Day to reach their goal. The money was
raised to purchase the materials needed to make blankets for children in foster
care. Our goals is to make 40 hand tied fleece blankets. Every classroom at McMahon
will participate in making the blankets! We have parent and staff volunteers who are
assisting with getting the materials ready. We will present the blankets to Help Our Kids
Inc., a local organization that services children in foster care.
The Spirit Club also led a food drive in November which resulted in over 300
food items being donated to Providence Ministries.
Thanks to the members of the Spirit Club, the goal of promoting social unity and social awareness at McMahon is well under way! The students are currently discussing what our next projects will be so stay tuned for further exciting news from the Spirit Club!
Grade 5 Investigates the Water Cycle
By Dan Pfefferle
The Hitchcock Center and Enchanted Circle Theater have visited
the fifth grade science classrooms at McMahon School over the past week.
Students have been shown many hands-on examples of how the water cycle
works and how we (as people) affect the water cycle. Students have experienced the water cycle in action using models. They have also investigated what
happens when toxic waste enters the water cycle. What a great way to experience the water cycle and think about how our actions affect the health of the
waterways!
Students experiencing the water cycle include: Natasha
Concepcion and Adalisha Gonzalez, and Josiah Vasquez.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Volume 12, Issue 2
Peck-Lawrence
Traveling through Puerto Rico
By Antonia Santiago
To celebrate Puerto Rican heritage,
the Peck/Lawrence Schools held a Traveling
through Puerto Rico event at the Peck campus
on Wednesday, November 13 from 6:00 P.M.8:00 P.M. It was a huge success and provided a
great way for school, staff and families to connect. Students created informative displays on
various cities and towns in Puerto Rico. There
was live plena music, Puerto Rican food from
Fernandez Restaurant, and a captivating dance
Holiday Concert
By Otis Rogers
The students and staff of the Peck School presented a Winter Concert, Wednesday December 18 at 1:30 P.M. in the Peck auditorium. The
music selected represented a wide range of
styles and genres that exemplified the Peck
pledge: Proud, Excellent, Committed and Kind.
Students showed exceptional dedication to their
show, rehearsing during their music classes and
at every possible spare moment during the
school day. The concert included combined
middle school choir and band, middle school
choir, elementary choir, and a special eighth
grade sing along of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” led by Cathy Foley. Concert highlights included a student-choreographed dance
and professional-level piano accompaniment by
an eighth grade student.
Our next show will be a students and
staff Talent Show this spring. We hope to have a
large group of participants.
“Fun”Raisers
By Andrea Lauzier
show from a local Puerto Rican dance group!
Special performances of “La borriqueña” sung by
Aida Ortiz (counselor), Yaldira Felix-Brown
(case manager), our school Principal Vionette
Escudero and students Joshua Fernandez and
Margarita Velazco wowed the crowd. Ms.
Flynn’s first grade class performed an awesome
special dance number. Families and staff had a
wonderful time “traveling through Puerto Rico”
and we can’t until next year!
This year the Functional Academics
classes have been sponsoring some "Fun"raising
days at the Peck Campus. The first was held on
October 31 and was an Opposite Day. It was
free of charge to all staff and students. The goal
was for students to dress as teachers and teachers to dress as students. The student winners
were Xsairaliz Quinnes and Xavier Ramos. They
each won $10 to McDonald's. The second was
Crazy Holiday Sweater Day held on December
20 and was again free for all staff and students.
The goal was to wear crazy holiday clothes (any
holiday from this time of year). This time Ms.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
By Jessenia Ramos
Why should you learn English? ''When a parent doesn't speak English, it creates a
tremendous disability to really participate in a child's education,'' said Joanne Appleton Arnaud,
executive director of the Boston Adult Literacy Fund. Tasks like reading the notes from their
child's teacher, participating in parent-teacher conferences and helping children with their homework become very difficult when parents don't understand the language. The more parents are
involved in the education of their children, the better the academic achievement. With that in
mind, the Peck-Lawrence Full Service Community School has successfully started ESOL classes
for families interested in improving their English skills and public speaking abilities.
Page 7
Kulik won for the teachers. Ms. Kulik won a gift
certificate to Starbucks and the winning students
each won $10 to McDonald's.
Evening with Santa
By Jessenia Ramos
On December 19, P-PUA (PeckLawrence Parents United in Action) and Family
Access and Engagement Cooridinators successfully coordinated an Evening with Santa at the
Lawrence Campus. Each student happily received a gift from Santa, made a holiday craft
and enjoyed some milk and cookies with the
ever so jolly Santa. Many even took a picture
with Santa and received their photographs in
just a few days! Over 500 gifts were given on
this special occasion, but the greatest gift was
that of seeing the genuinely happy smiles clearly
shown on the faces of both the children and
their families.
TEAM = Together Everyone Achieves More
Student Corner
By Cathy Foley
WhatareyourNewYear’s
resolutionsfor2014?
“I want to do all my homework and make my family proud.” ‐ Parrish Holmes, Grade 4 “I hope to stop arguing with my parents at home.” ‐ Naressa Kempadoo, Grade 5Fi “Behave in math class.” ‐ Kevin Keyes, Grade 6 “I would like to do better at home with my family.” ‐ Emily Valasquez, Grade 7 “Focus on my school work and grad‐
uate middle school as part of the Class of 2014.” ‐ Dalisha Ruiz, Grade 8 For this first semester, adult students were able to learn and practice everyday conversations in English. We were pleased to see 9 of our Peck-Lawrence parents using their new
skills by creating and then presenting a beautiful poster representing their everyday lives. The
next semester will be focusing on how to communicate with health care providers and legal
matters. Interested Peck-Lawrence parents are encouraged to contact the school.
These parent classes are also offered at the following schools: Kelly, E.N. White and
Morgan.
Peck resolutionists include: Emily
Valasquez, Parrish Holmes, Naressa
Kempadoo, Kevin Keyes, Dalisha Ruiz.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 8
Donahue
By Ricky Cates
As a result of their hard work and
success on the ANET, six grade students and
their families were rewarded with a pizza
celebration. They enjoyed games, pizza,
cookies and juice together after school.
Congratulations students!
Student Articles
Visit from Eric Velasquez
Donahue Students Visit Geriatric Authority
Third grades students from Donahue School participated in
a walking field trip to the Geriatric Authority. They were warmly
welcomed by many residents. The students sang Christmas songs to
the residents, which lightened the residents’ faces. Many of the Hispanic residents enjoyed Spanish holiday carols.
Third grade student Naydelys Torres shared, “I felt comfortable with the elders. They were like my grandparents.” She really enjoyed singing a song about Chanukah.
Third grader Kayelana Matos also enjoyed singing the Chanukah song. She exclaimed, “I felt appreciated by the elders.”
Mrs. Cathy Hebert, teacher at Donahue School, coordinated this and other memorable visits to the Geriatric Authority. The
first graders played a bowling game and shared popcorn with residents during their visit. Second graders and residents created
Thanksgiving themed cards and crafts together. Mrs. Hebert hopes
to continue this valuable partnership by arranging for each grade to
visit the Geriatric Authority this year.
Author Eric Velasquez visited Donahue School
through a grant with the Eric Carle Museum. He worked with
second graders to create a picture book. Students enjoyed
using art to improve their writing skills. Thank you to teacher
Margaret Bartley and the Eric Carle Museum for coordinating
this valuable opportunity.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Volume 12, Issue 2
Sullivan
Page 9
And the Votes are In!
By Kelly Doktor
Sixty second-grade students at Sullivan Elementary School had the reallife experience of meeting both Holyoke mayoral candidates as a culminating
activity of the Election Unit. The visits, both occurring on October 30th, were
organized by second-grade teacher Kelly Doktor, who actually booked Mayor
Alex Morse in early August, before school even began. The day after the primary
in September, she contacted candidate Jeff Stanek, who was also available on
October 30.
“I knew our team would implement the election unit, and since the
campaign would be a topic in the homes of our students, I wanted the students
to have the experience of meeting both candidates,” said Doktor.
Morse arrived in the morning to read a non-fiction election book to
sixty eager children in the Sullivan School library which featured hand-painted
election signs promoting both candidates. After reading the book, Morse answered six questions ranging from “Why do you want to be mayor?” to “How
do you ask for money for schools?” Stanek then followed suit in the afternoon
and read a fiction election book to the students. He then answered the same
questions as Morse and conversed with the students.
The following day, each teacher reviewed the answers to those six
questions in the classroom where students could compare and contrast the answers to better inform themselves before voting for the candidate of their
choice. Once the secret votes were tallied, Mayor Morse garnered forty-three
votes to Stanek’s eight. The results were a great indicator of the actual election
held five days later!
Metcalf
Sharing Our Learning Experiences
By Amy Wetzel Burke
So many incredible learning opportunities have come to Metcalf this year. We began by supporting
our theme of community helpers and invited members of the Holyoke Fire Department to our classrooms to
support our thoughts and ideas about how firefighters help our community. Ms. Daly’s class enjoyed a wonderful visit from Ms. Paula from Sturbridge
Village. She shared with the students ways in
which people used to make quilts, wash
clothes, and take baths many years ago. Mrs.
Lafortune’s class and Ms. Daly’s class shared
a delightful Thanksgiving Feast with their
families. The meal was created and served by
the students. Finally, Mrs. Roldan’s class
performed a celebratory Paranda. They paraded around the school and sang traditional
Hispanic songs and helped bring cheer to all
at Metcalf School.
Thank you to all those who have supported and shared their knowledge and experiences with our students.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 10
Broadway in Holyoke
Holyoke High
Come and see Broadway in Holyoke when the Holyoke High School Music Department stages its 15th annual musical - Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella from Thursday, March 13 through Sunday, March 16 in the John Sears Auditorium at Holyoke High School. Tickets for the production go on sale Monday,
March 3 and may be purchased at Holyoke High School and at The Cottage at 1615 Northampton Street. Performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
evenings are at 7:30 P.M., and the performance on Sunday afternoon is at 2:00 P.M. All seating is reserved. Golden Circle tickets for seats in the front three
rows are $15 (no discounts). Tickets for adults are $10. Tickets for senior citizens, students and children are $8. New this year is group seating. Tickets for
groups of 10 or more for any one of the performances are $8. So mark your calendars and come and enjoy this magical production.
Athletics
Fall Highlights
By Melanie Martin
Holyoke High Highlights
Girls X-Country – These girls are small in number but had individual
successes throughout the season.
Boys Soccer – The boys took on the challenges of having two new
coaches in pre-season finishing with a record of 4-12-2. Adonnis Camby
was an All-League All-Star
Students from the Adaptive Physical Education Program enjoy skating at
Girls Volleyball- Finished 10-9 and made tournament—Abbey Keeler
the Fitzpatrick Skating Arena.
and Crystal Vazquez were All-League All-Stars
Golf – The team finished 4-11, with Devan Kane and Alex Glanville
competing in Western Mass. Alex Glanville went on to compete in States. Dean Tech Highlights:
Alex and Devan were also named All-League All Stars
Football – The team finished 2-9. The athletes on the team at the end of
Girls Soccer – The girls had a record of 8-7-3 and made the tournament. the season finished strong and represented Dean Tech with dignity and
All-League All-stars were: Carly Costello, Jamie Robert and Taylor Chopride. It was a difficult season, with many challenges. Our athletes persevered and will come back strong next season. Daniel Wilson Scott and
quette.
Hector Cabrera made All-league and All Western Mass.
Field Hockey – The team finished second in their league with a record
of 12-5-2 and qualified for the tournament. Kathryn Collier, Bridget Hig- Girls Volleyball – Our girls struggled this year but worked hard to build
gins, Jessica Lamagdeleine and Katelyn Leclerc were named All-League All- team chemistry and improve as a team and as individual skills. They gave
Stars.
their all to be successful regardless of the score. Jessybel Torres and
Crystal Rivera were All-League All-Stars.
Boys X-Country – These runners were the Valley South Champions
with an 8-0 record. Joel Ramos and Guillermo Goodreau-Rivera went on
to compete in Western Mass and States. All-League All-Stars include
Michael Cabral, Guillermo Goodreau-Rivera, Matt McAndrew, Tyler Tardy and Joel Ramos.
Football– The team finished 3-8 with a Thanksgiving Day win over
Chicopee. Kristian Arturet, Justin White, Phillip Fernandez and Andrew
Peltier were All-League All-Stars andAll Western Mass. Daniel Boyle was
All Western Mass.
E.N. White (continued from page 3)
The choral program - directed by Daniel Rose - began in 2011, and has increased enrollment by 50% in two short years. Furthermore, this year’s
participants represented not only the choral program, but the string program, headed up by Mr. Andy Verrocchi, and the band program run by Mr.
George Baker as well. Many students are members of all three performing ensembles, and students have expressed their hope that increasing opportunities to join performing ensembles become the norm: Reyes claims, “Performing is a big part of who I am because it can give me confidence
and shows me to push myself to be that better person, by speaking up and working hard at what I perform. I would like to see [these ensembles]
start from something little, and then in the future once we’re all grown, it will have grown into something way bigger, where all these kids are participating in it, and everyone can get into music and have what we have here.”
“It would be great if these ensembles were in every school and not just a few,” added Pamaylaon.
“[We want] our school to be the example,” says Lebron.
The six students selected will participate in rehearsals at Belchertown High School and UMass Amherst with their respective ensembles,
and conclude with a performance at UMass Amherst on Saturday March 15.
When asked what he would share with other students about the experience, Sibdhanny, who is also the Student Council President, stated,
“I would say to always try your hardest, always give 100% - never give up, because you never know what could happen.”
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Volume 12, Issue 2
Dean Technical
New CISCO Program Offering
By Barry Bacom
On January 28, William J. Dean
Technical High School cut the ribbon on
their new CISCO Networking Academy.
The CISCO Corporation is the world’s leader in the manufacturing of computer networking equipment. CISCO provides training
academies throughout the world. The CISCO program will provide the students at
Dean Tech the opportunity to study networking technologies that will allow them to
build, design, and maintain networks; along
with career skills such as problem solving,
collaboration, and critical thinking. This
training will prepare Dean students to obtain
industry-recognized certifications as CISCO
Certified Networking Technicians and CISCO Certified Networking Associates.
The CISCO program is made up
of several highly rigorous courses. The
courses will be offered to students in grades
11 and 12. It is recommended that a student
have a high academic standing and a recommendation from their guidance counselor
and principal.
Puerto Rican Heritage Month
On the evening of Tuesday, November 19 , members of the Dean community gathered to celebrate the many ways Puerto Rican
culture contributes to, strengthens, and brightens the school. The celebration was a huge success. More than 250 people came out to celebrate one of the community’s most significant
ethnic cultures, honor some of the most prominent Puerto Rican elders in the community, and
enjoy tastes of the music, food, and dance from
Puerto Rico.
The event began at 5:00 P.M., when all
attendees saluted both the American and the
Puerto Rican flags. Three members of the Dean
Tech staff sang “La Boriquena,” the Puerto Rican
National Anthem. The theme of this particular
Puerto Rican Heritage celebration was Honoring
Our Elders, and the member of the Dean Tech
community selected to be honored was Mr.
Pedro Rivera. Mr. Rivera is a dedicated member
of the Dean Tech community and an active
member of the Holyoke community, serving a
multitude of roles including coordinator of Career Technical Education placement, testing, and
SkillsUSA. More importantly, perhaps, he has
been essential in helping to create the welcoming, trusting, and demanding culture that Dean
Tech has been working towards all year. His
rapport with both students and parents is obvious, and all attendees were thrilled with the
opportunity to honor his valued contributions to
the community.
A series of dance numbers followed
Mr. Rivera’s tribute. A folkloric group, El Coquí,
commenced the dance selections. El Coquí,
which is a small frog native to Puerto Rico, is the
name of a children’s folkloric dance program
designed to teach Holyoke youth about native
Puerto Rican dances while also engaging them in
a positive after-school activity. These young
dancers opened for a group of Dean Tech students who performed a series of dances: a salsa
(a traditionally Cuban dance), a negroide (an
African-influenced dance), and a plena (a Puerto
Rican folkloric dance). Finally, a Dean Tech staff
member and local artisan displayed his art and
spoke about the ways in which Puerto Rican
culture influences and inspires his work. During
the entire showcase, audience members enjoyed
an authentic Puerto Rican meal, prepared by
Dean Tech’s culinary students. Between each
new presentation, the student emcees would
provide bits of Puerto Rican history to the audience, making the entire night both entertaining
and educational.
Assistant Principal Gladys Franco –
who headed the planning committee comprised
of teachers, parents, and students – was pleased
with the event’s turnout. “We felt that it was
important to celebrate Puerto Rican heritage
because of our student body. So many of our
students share this important culture and history; it’s part of their identity.” Engaging the students, she shared, was not the only goal: “We
also know it’s important to engage the community in our celebration. It really takes a village,
and it’s important that we all work – and celebrate – together.”
Dean Tech continues to host creative and important events that boast record
attendance numbers and allow students to
share their work and talent with their community. And people are noticing: this event
was featured on local news network ABC40. Let’s Move Holyoke!
Page 11
Eating right and being physically active
can be a challenge in today’s busy world. Let’s
Move Holyoke 5-2-1-0! is here to help! As a
part of 5-2-1-0 Goes to School, our program
works hard to incorporate the 5-2-1-0 messages into our daily activities at Dean. As part of
our work, families receive parent-geared information, which highlight the messages about what
their child is learning in this program. In a nutshell, the plan carries this wellness message:
5 or more fruits & vegetables
2 hours or less fun screen time
1 hour or more physical activity
0 sugary drinks, more water and low fat milk
Let’s Go! uses evidence-based strategies that align with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Institute of Medicine’s recommendations to support healthy eating and
active living. “Students with a high level of wellness are more likely to have an increase in focus
and attention, better academic achievement, and
improved attendance at school.” explains Cynthia Carbone, RN, MSN, Dean’s Wellness Coordinator. She adds, “Our shared vision is for our
students to learn the skills and knowledge needed to increase healthy eating and active living
behaviors, for those behaviors to be fun, easy,
and popular to accomplish, and for Dean’s environment and policies to encourage and support
those healthy choices”. Dean is united with the
greater Holyoke Community efforts in the common goal of increasing student wellness! Visit
www.letsgo.org for more information about
5-2-1-0.
Clothing/School Uniform Drive
Dean’s nineth grade Health classes are
collecting gently used or new clothing to provide to students who may need uniform clothing. Dean Tech’s School Uniform consists of:
Solid Black Crew-Neck Sweatshirts
Black Polo Shirts-Long or Short Sleeves
By Jeannette Smith
Tan Pants or Black Pants
We are pleased to announce that
Dean Tech has teamed up with 5-2-1-0 Let’s
Move Holyoke! It’s a program that is part of a
larger project, LET’S GO! which is a nationally
recognized childhood obesity prevention
program designed to increase healthy eating
and active living in children from birth to
eighteen years of age. Let’s Move Holyoke
works in six areas (schools, early childhood,
after school, healthcare, workplace and community) to reach children and families where
they live, study, work, and play. The program
is centered on the common message of
5-2-1-0.
Steel Toe Boots (for shop)
Belts, Ties, Shoes, Sneakers
Warm Winter Coats, Hats & Gloves
We are looking for the above in sizes
XXS to XXL
For male and female students in grades
nine through twelve
We invite you to drop your donation off at
Dean Technical High School, Main Office, at
1045 Main St., Holyoke. For More Information
contact Mrs. Carbone, at 413-534-2071 x 4331.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 12
Three Kings Day Celebrated
By Vida Zavala
bined the Three Kings annual celebration with traditional music, food and
dance on a more personal, school-based level. This new way of building
relationships and support for our families is more effective than the traditional centralized celebration.
The Holyoke Public Schools’ annual Three
Kings Day celebration was held for students and families
at Metcalf and at the K-8 schools this year. A total of
more than 700 attended the school celebrations, to build
a sense of community, increase family involvement, affirm
the cultural identity of our Latino students, and promote
literacy.
“We are fortunate to be able to continue
making this traditional Latino cultural event a success for
our students and families,” says Vida Zavala, Interim Director of the English Language Education Department.
Holding the celebrations at the schools allowed staff,
families, and community members from students’ neighborhoods to work together to create events that com-
As part of the
program, teachers, students,
and community members
dressed as the Three Kings
and distributed gifts and
books to students at the
schools. Toys were donated
by Toys for Tots and books
were donated by Reader to
Reader. For more information about this celebration,
visit our district website (see
address below). Holyoke
Public Schools has been hosting the Three Kings Day
celebration for 10 years.
CONNECTIONS After School Program
Student Articles
Noche Latina
by Natasha Berrios
On November 22 we went to Noche
Latina at Mt Holyoke College. It was a celebration of Latin American heritage with traditional
music, food, and dancing. The food that they had
was white rice with beans and turkey, called pollo
in Spanish. It was really good. We had so much
fun and most of the students that went got to
tour the campus and saw one of the dorms. The
college is only for girls to go to, but boys could
go to Noche Latina. We had the best time ever
watching the dancing, listening to poetry, and
eating. The college even had a store and a pool
table. They had so many different things in that
college that most people would love. It was an
awesome day. We had so much fun; we wish
we could have another field trip like that one.
We learned about the college and how students
work and have parties and they have so much
fun there. I had so much fun at Noche Latina. I
will never forget that day. My best friend, Jennifer Cruz, who is also in CONNECTIONS,
went on the trip with me. It was so good that
we went home tired; that’s how much we had
fun. That was one of the field trips that I enjoyed
the most and I was happy to have my best friend
there with me.
My Story
By Jamie Joquin
My Name is Jamie Joquin. I’m 20 years old and a
senior here at Dean Tech. Here’s my story.
I’m not perfect at all. I came across
ADHD, ADD, anger management, and a horrible
case of dyslexia. I also have trouble sleeping at
night. Despite everything that’s going on, I made
it to my senior year after six years of high
school. It wasn’t easy at all but I did it. I also plan
on attending college and giving it a shot. I want
to become a corrections officer. Coming into
high school I thought I had it all figured out. I
was wrong. I did for others more than I did for
myself. I was always worried what others
thought of me. After failing my freshman year
twice, and becoming a freshman for my third
year straight, reality hit me. I started to realize I
wasn’t a little kid anymore. I needed to get my
life together. Since I’ve been at Dean I played
sports for three years with a waiver, and I’m
working on a second one. I came a long way, and
I’m so proud to be where I’m at today. My advice to you underclassmen is to focus on school
and to worry about yourself.
place to stay when they have to be near the
hospital for a long time. Our first visit was on
November 20, and we checked out the place
and met the staff. After our initial visit we were
eager to plan our next return. We set the date
for December 14, with the intention of bringing
holiday cheer! We planned to decorate cookies
and assemble graham cracker houses. We also
made boxes to collect canned food and donations as well as soda can tops to bring to the
Ronald McDonald House. The field trip was
cancelled because of a snow storm, but our
teachers still delivered the food and donations.
Then, on December 19, we had a field trip to
the Westfield Soup Kitchen to prepare and
serve a meal. With help from the Culinary Club
in CONNECTIONS, we prepared lasagna and
then served it to the people at the soup kitchen.
The Community Service Club is catching on
Our Service with the Community slowly but we hope to get more students involved to do other projects. Our future plans
By Edeni Colon
include
Habitat for
Humanity
The Community Service Club is a
and a possigroup of high school students who are interestble
park
ed in helping others. We meet during the CONclean up.
NECTIONS After School Program at Dean. The
Club’s popularity started slowly, since it is a new
club this year. With the help of some students
we made a list of ideas of where, and what we
want to help with. Shriner’s Hospital in Springfield was a main contender. We learned about The Community Service Club created this
box to be filled with canned food donations
the Ronald McDonald House through our infor the Ronald McDonald House. It is locatstructor, Ms. Grace Santiago, and it was a per- ed in the CONNECTIONS room on the
fect match! At the Ronald McDonald House, second floor at Dean.
families and sometimes patients are provided a
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Holyoke Public Schools
Estos son los puntos mas
sobresalientes del Boletin
Holyoke Public Schools
Volume 12 Issue 2
Invierno 2014
Una Carta Abierta a la Comunidad de la Escuela Holyoke
Estamos Transformando Vidas
By Dr. Sergio Páez, Superintendent of Schools
En primer lugar, quiero darle las gracias por todo su trabajo
y dedicación. Todos hemos estado trabajando muy duro para hacer
una diferencia en las vidas de nuestros estudiantes. Seis meses no
suena como mucho, pero estamos empezando a ver la luz al final del
túnel. Nuestros hijos se conectan con nosotros cada vez más y nosotros los hacemos más curiosos y comprometidos cada día.
Lo que tenemos que hacer para transformar nuestro distrito
es tener un compromiso "como de laser" de alto rendimiento académico – construyendo nuestras expectativas todos los días de nuestros
estudiantes y entendiendo cada vez más la forma en que aprenden.
Recuerde, es sólo cuando usted captura su atención, que usted podrá
hacerlos participar en su enseñanza. El primer paso es tomar las decisiones curriculares adecuadas para hacer que el contenido relevante y
significativo para ellos.
El plan de estudios es un gran punto de
referencia, matemáticas, lectura y escritura en el nivel de grado apropiado y con la diferenciación de estudiantes de alto rendimiento y
otros estudiantes diversos son los elementos esenciales para construir
las habilidades que necesitan para ser exitosos académicamente.
Estudiante
de Arte:
Amanda
Barta,
Escuela
Superior de
Holyoke Clase
de Dibujo y
Pintura
sitamos asegurarnos de que desarrollamos, como un equipo (equipo
de grado o contenido), una definición clara de la competencia. Esta
definición debe coincidir con lo que se percibe como competente si se
compara con los estándares estatales.
Quiero agradecer a todos los equipos de instrucción en las
escuelas por su dedicación y compromiso de contribuir a la transformación de nuestras escuelas. Toda esta colaboración significativa con
los maestros y los administradores está empezando a dar sus frutos.
Una vez que definimos esta colaboración y, luego ofrecemos una reacción significativa a nuestros estudiantes, luego, ellos podrán entender
el propósito y la relevancia del contenido aprendido.
Nuestros próximos pasos son para asegurar que el 100% de
nuestro contenido es entregado en una forma que se aprende por
todos los estudiantes y que los sistemas de apoyo disponibles están
alineados con el apoyo necesario para las instrucciones al Nivel II o III.
Ahora, después de varias horas de desarrollo profesional y la alineación del uso del personal y el plan de estudios, tengo la esperanza de
Un aspecto importante de nuestro trabajo es la evaluación
constante de la enseñanza que nuestros hijos estarán más comprometidos y listos para aprender.
No es aceptable tener dominio del 13% para los estudiantes de 3 º
que hacemos todos los
días. Yo recomendaría un grado y sólo el dominio del 2% y del 4% por ciento para los estudiantes de Educación Especial y Estudiantes de ELL - Aprendices de Lenmétodo más informal en
lugar de nuestras pruebas guaje Inglés.
estandarizadas tradicionaEstamos analizando todas las oportunidades para apoyar a
les para asegurarnos de
nuestros
maestros
y asegurarse que todos tengan todos los materiales
que el aprendizaje se lleva
y recursos que necesitan para transformar nuestro distrito. A pesar de
a cabo para todos los
que estamos haciendo cambios significativos del estado de bajo rendiniños todo el tiempo.
miento crónico de nuestro distrito requiere un enfoque más agresivo
Tenga en cuenta si ellos
no están aprendiendo, no para invertir las tendencias. Somos tan sólo seis meses en un recorrido que nos llevará a ser fieles a nuestro compromiso como educadoestamos enseñando. Un
área importante que está res para desarrollar todo el potencial que nuestros estudiantes porequiriendo una atención seen. Como ya he dicho un par de veces, no hay trabajo más noble
específica de nosotros es que la de educar a la próxima generación de estadounidenses. Somos
el componente de escrilos guardianes de la promesa de la educación de los Estados Unidos
tura -- escribir todos los
como el mayor ecualizador en una sociedad donde millones de inmidías y escribir bien. Esto
grantes han llegado a nuestras costas para hacer de este país lo que es
es independientemente
hoy.
del nivel de conocimientos del estudiante. NuesGracias por todo lo que hacen por nuestros estudiantes, y
tros estudiantes deben
por favor ayúdenme a encontrar nuevas maneras de hacer una diferenser animados y se espera
cia en Holyoke.
que lean y escriban todos
los días. Por último nece-
Consulte la pagina 15 para información de la Celebración del Día de los Tres Reyes Magos.
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
Page 14
Parents—
Atención
Reuniones del Comité Escolar
Visite el si o web de las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke para ver calendario de reuniones: ¿Está interesado en
involucrarse más en la
educación de sus hijos? Consulte la página 15.
http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us/schoolcommittee.htm
Reuniones del Consejo Asesor de Educación Especial (SEPAC)
Por favor únase a otros padres interesados en nuestras próximas reuniones durante el año 20132014. Hay una fuerza en números y el apoyo de otras personas que comparten experiencias similares. Nuestros esfuerzos combinados pueden influir en el éxito de nuestros hijos, así como dar forma
a su futuro.
Próximas fechas de reuniones y temas de discusión:
3 de marzo: Terapia Ocupacional / Terapia Física/ Terapia del Habla “ Hacer y Recibir Actividades"
5 de mayo: Descripción general de lo que ofrece el Programa de Verano
Las reuniones se llevan a cabo en la Escuela Lawrence a las 6:00 PM
Visite el sitio web del distrito para más información:
http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us/pdf/announcements/SEPAC.pdf
Oportunidades
de
Preguntas:
contacto
Kelly
Aprendizaje - [email protected] o Dawn - [email protected]
Titulo I Noches de Familia
durante el Verano
Ofrecido Diversión
a los Estudiantes
de Toda
las
para
Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke
la Familia
4 de marzo
Noche de Dr. Seuss
5 de marzo
Noche de Dr. Seuss
Comenzando
8 de julio
6 de marzo el Noche
de Dr. Seuss
7 de marzo
Noche de Dr. Seuss
hasta
el 8 de agosto
12 de marzo
Noche de Dr. Seuss
de188:00
AM a 1:00
de marzo
NochePM
de Dr. Seuss
19 de marzo
Noche de Dr. Seuss
de abril más información,
Noche de Transición
Para2obtener
2 de
abrilel sitio Bingo
visite
web: para Libros
3
de
abril
Bingo
para Libros
http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
15 de abril
Noche de Juego en Familia
29 de abril
Matematicas en Bolsa
30 de abril
Bingo para Libros
Escuela E.N. White
Escuela McMahon
Escuela Sullivan
Escuela Metcalf
Escuela Kelly
Escuela Morgan
Escuela Lawrence
Escuela Donahue
Escuela E.N. White
Escuela Sullivan
Escuela McMahon
Escuela Kelly
Escuela Morgan
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Todos los
eventos
comienzan
a las 6:30
Para
grados
Kínder
hasta 12
Volume 12, Issue 2
Page 15
Celebración del Día de los Tres
Reyes Magos
Por Vida Zavala
La celebración anual del Día de Reyes en las Escuelas Públicas de
Holyoke 'se llevó a cabo para los estudiantes y familias en Metcalf y en las
escuelas K-8 este año. Un total de más de 700 asistió a las celebraciones
de la escuela, para construir un sentido de comunidad, aumentar la participación de la familia, afirmar la identidad cultural de nuestros estudiantes
latinos, y promover la alfabetización.
"Tenemos la suerte de poder seguir haciendo de este tradicional evento cultural latino un éxito para nuestros estudiantes y sus familias",
dice Vida Zavala, Directora Interina del Departamento de Educación del
Idioma Inglés. La celebración de las fiestas en las escuelas permitió que el
personal, familias y miembros de la comunidad de los vecindarios de los
estudiantes trabajaran juntos para crear eventos que combinan la celebración anual de los Reyes Magos con la música tradicional, la comida y el
baile en un nivel más personal, basado en la escuela. Esta nueva forma de
construir relaciones y el apoyo a nuestras familias es más eficaz que la
celebración centralizada tradicional.
Como parte del programa, los maestros, estudiantes y miembros de la comunidad vestidos como los Reyes Magos distribuyeron regalos y libros a los estudiantes en las escuelas. Los juguetes fueron donados
por Toys for Tots y libros fueron donados por Reader para Reader. Para
obtener más información acerca de esta celebración, visite nuestro sitio
Web del distrito (ver dirección abajo). Las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke
ha sido anfitrión de la celebración del Día de Reyes desde hace 10 años.
Inglés para los que Hablan Otros Lenguajes (ESOL)
Por Jessenia Ramos
Celebrating Three Kings Day at Kelly School
Three Kings celebrated at Kelly School.
Fiestas de Alfabetización de la Escuela de Servicio
Completos a la Comunidad Kelly
Por Rebecca Masters
¿Por qué debería usted aprender inglés? '' Cuando un padre no
habla Inglés, crea una tremenda incapacidad de participar realmente en la
educación de un niño'', dijo Joanne Appleton Arnaud, Directora Ejecutiva
del Fondo de Alfabetización de Adultos de Boston. Tareas como la lectura de las notas de los maestros de sus hijos, participando en conferencias de padres y maestros y ayudar a los niños con sus tareas escolares se
convierten muy difícil cuando los padres no entienden el idioma. Entre
más los padres se involucran en la educación de sus hijos, mejor será el
rendimiento académico. Con esto en mente, la Escuela de Servicio Completos a la Comunidad Peck-Lawrence ha iniciado con éxito las clases de
ESOL para las familias interesadas en mejorar sus conocimientos de inglés y habilidades para hablar en público.
Para este primer semestre, los estudiantes adultos fueron
capaces de aprender y practicar conversaciones cotidianas en inglés. Nos
quedamos encantados de ver 9 de nuestros padres de Peck-Lawrence
usando sus nuevas habilidades mediante la creación y luego la presentación de un hermoso cartel que representa su vida cotidiana. El próximo
semestre se centrará en la manera de comunicarse con los proveedores
de salud y los asuntos legales. Se anima a los padres interesados de PeckLawrence a contactar la escuela.
Estas clases de padres también se ofrecen en las siguientes
escuelas: Kelly, EN White y Morgan.
La Escuela de Servicio Completos a la Comunidad Kelly está
emocionada de anunciar nuestro más reciente esfuerzo de participación
de los padres ....Fiestas de Alfabetización en el Hogar! (Literacy House
Parties!) Esto es un programa de 45 minutos que tiene lugar en la casa de
un estudiante de Kelly para ayudar a los padres de Kelly aprender cómo
apoyar a la lectura de sus hijos! Un padre de Kelly o familiar invita a
otros padres de Kelly en su casa para la Fiesta de Alfabetización y recibe
una tarjeta de Shop N Stop de $50.00 por ser anfitrión. Durante la fiesta,
el intervencionista de Lectura de la escuela Kelly discute con los padres
la manera de entender los niveles de lectura, consejos para el apoyo a la
lectura en casa, y juegos de diversión que pueden ayudar a los jóvenes
lectores. Todos los padres participantes reciben también una mochila de
alfabetización llena de suministros para Juegos, útiles escolares, y un libro! Asistentes a la fiesta también pueden disfrutar de la comida y tienen
la oportunidad de inscribirse como anfitrión de una fiesta de Alfabetización próxima!
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Connections
HolyokePublicSchools
A community working together/
Una Communidad trabanjando juntos
http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us
Holyoke, MA 01040
500 Beech Street
c/o Judy Taylor
Media Center
Holyoke Public Schools
Connections
Page 16
Holyoke Public Schools—Visit us on the web at: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us