June 9th E-Blast

From: Mary C. Gormley
To: Parents/Guardians and Staff
Re: E-blast Update
Date: Friday, June 9th, 2017

FROM THE DESK OF THE SUPERINTENDENT

Earlier this week, we held a small ceremony in the MHS Library for all of our retiring faculty and staff.  This is an annual tradition of the Milton School Committee and it is our way of showing our retirees how much we appreciate them.  Please join me in recognizing this year’s retirees:

Claire Engrassia was hired in 1979 to act as a “home instruction” tutor.  In 1985, she became an instructional aide at Milton High School. In her years at Milton High School, Principal James Jette stated that ” Claire was a dedicated and passionate instructional aide whose math support was invaluable. She worked with so many of our students who had academic and social emotional challenges and she did it successfully for many years.” Tracy Grandeau who was the Special Education Team Chair prior to becoming the Director of Pupil Personnel Services added that “Claire always went above and beyond in helping our students. She was an advocate for our students with special needs and always willing to assist in any situation. Claire  displays amazing talent in the area of mathematics and she made sure that students understood even the most challenging concepts.  She is truly a team player and valuable member of our staff. We will never forget her passion and dedication to her work.” Diane Jackson worked closely with Ms. Engrassia over the years at MHS. Ms. Jackson added that “Claire has touched so many young lives. Her professionalism, patience, understanding and dedication is why so many of our students have met with success.  She is a wonderful person who always believed in her students and never gave up on them.  As a colleague, she would be there to assist in any way she could. ” We wish Ms. Engrassia continued happiness in her retirement years.

Sonja Fisher began her career in the Milton Public Schools Food Service Department at Milton High School in September of 1985. Sonja has worked as a cashier and has been the person in charge of making those delicious salads and sandwich wraps for our students. When technological advancements were introduced to the Food Service Program, Sonja was more than able to adapt to the new computerized Point of Sale operation. There have been many changes to the Food Service industry over the past 32 and she has been with us for every step, doing whatever she can to help her peers and our students. Another important role that Sonja has had over the past several years was her position as Union Steward for the AFSCME union. Sonja will be missed very much. According to Food Service Director Jacqueline Morgan, “she has an amazing heart and is always so kind to our students.” Please join me in wishing the best to Sonja as she begins this new chapter of her life.

Marcia Goodless was hired in 2007 as a full time Special Education teacher at the Pierce Middle School. Dr. Karen Spaulding stated that “Mrs. Goodless has been supporting students with special needs for 29 years, the last 10 of which were at the Pierce Middle School. Mrs. Goodless’ time at Pierce Middle School has been in the team taught mathematics classroom and in the math lab.  Mrs. Goodless’ gentle, supportive approach with students has ensured that they not only develop their skills in math, but also mature as confident life-long learners.  Mrs. Goodless has collaborated with her regular education and special education colleagues on a number of initiatives, each of which has positively impacted our special education programming.  Mrs. Goodless will be remembered both for her kind, happy spirit and for her flashy (literally it flashes!) neckware.” We wish her the best as she begins this new chapter of her life.

Eric Karjel was hired in July, 2016 to the position of Athletic Director for the Milton Public Schools. He came to Milton with many years of experience after holding the same position in the Hopkinton Public Schools as well as at King Philip High School. According to Principal James Jette, “in his short period of time here as the Athletic Director, Eric illustrated what the AD position should be and gave us a focus point to build upon. His knowledge of the MIAA rules and regulations coupled with his many years of experience made him a perfect fit. Unfortunately for the Town of Milton, Mr. Karjel and his family decided to relocate to NY. With that said, he leaves a positive impression on our athletic program.” I am sure you join me in wishing Mr. Karjel happiness in his new home and throughout the years of his retirement.

Susan McKay was hired in September of 1993 as an elementary teacher at Pierce. Prior to coming to the Milton Public Schools, Ms. McKay worked at Saint Ann School in Dorchester for five years where she was described as a “dynamo”. In the words of Dr. Karen Spaulding, Principal of Pierce Middle School, “Ms. McKay has been a teacher at the Pierce Middle School for 24 years. She began her career at Pierce on the Silver Team, teaching at-risk students.  During that time, she taught every subject, including physical education and home economics.  Since then Mrs. McKay has taught English language arts, geography and even one year of Spanish.  In addition to being our premier costume seamstress for Pierce Players, Mrs. McKay has spent most of her time at Pierce as a mathematics teacher, teaching 7th &  8th grade math, Math Investigations, and our Advanced Math iSTEM elective.  Mrs. McKay knows well the importance of connecting mathematics to the real world and so over the years has facilitated a number of real world math-based projects with our students such as quilting, Barbie Bungee Jumping, and designing scale model homes.” Please join me in wishing the best to Ms. McKay as she begins her retirement.

Veronica McManus has been an important part of the MPS since 1987.  Throughout her career, she has held positions as an instructional aide at both Tucker and Cunningham before moving to Collicot in 1992 to fill a long-term substitute position and begin her career as a full time teacher. This year, the Milton Foundation for Education recognized Ms. McManus as one of the 2017 “Teachers of the Year.” Mme. McManus’ legacy will be one of an outstanding French Immersion educator of young children and model for all teachers. Mme. McManus has served the Milton Public Schools with distinction for twenty-five years and has taught grades two, three and four in all but one of Milton’s four elementary schools. I am sure you will join me in wishing Veronica McManus continued happiness as she begins her retirement.

Eileen Mullen began her career with the MPS in 1996 as a long-term sub at Pierce to cover a maternity leave. In 1999, she moved to Milton High School, where she remained until her retirement in September 2016. Ms. Mullen is remembered fondly by all her students, both high school and pre-school, for the amazing work she did directing the Milton High School’s  Pre-K program.  Under her leadership, this program expanded tremendously in popularity.  According to Principal James Jette, “her upbeat and positive personality was much needed in a position where she worked with Pre-K students and high school students who aspire to be educators. She gave the Pre-K students such a memorable and enriching experience that they still talk about, even when they are the high school students.” The impact Ms. Mullen had on her students is evident. I am sure you will join me in wishing Ms. Mullen all the best as she continues to enjoy the days of her retirement.

Janis Powell began her career in 1975 as a substitute teacher and in later years acted as an instructional aide and long term substitute before becoming a full time teacher in the district. Over the course of her career, Ms. Powell taught at all of the MPS Elementary Schools. Ms. Powell was dedicated to the profession of teaching. Her students were her priority and she worked hard to make sure that each of her students reached his/her full potential in the classroom Please join me in extending our best wishes to Ms. Powell. We hope she is able to enjoy her retirement and, more importantly, enjoy  her new grandson.

Margaret Turner began her career in Milton as an elementary teacher in 1990. She brought her strong teaching skills to the MPS and demonstrated what she wrote in her employment summary, “in the classroom, children do not learn by one method….a teacher needs to be flexible with a variety of teaching methods.” Ms. Turner is valued as an excellent elementary grade tacher by her supervisors and colleagues. They felt it was inspiring to watch her continued contribution to the school community because of her experience and successful years of teaching and instruction. She is indeed a skilled professional and a credit to the teaching profession. Best wishes to Ms. Turner in her retirement.

Dianne Walcott eagerly applied for a teaching position in the Milton Public Schools as an elementary teacher in the French Immersion program in 1994. Mme Walcott’s letter stated that coming to the Milton Public Schools “seems to be an ideal opportunity for me to pursue and tap many of my interests, including teaching, the development and education of children, reading and children’s literature, reading and speaking French, and exploring and sharing French culture.”  Handwritten on the bottom of that letter from the administrator interviewing her were the words “Excellent Candidate.”  Mme. Walcott has certainly proven to be an “excellent candidate.” According to Principal Holly Concannon, “Dianne spends countless hours at the Collicot preparing for lessons for her students. She commits her energy to insuring that all children feel welcome and safe under her guidance.” When asked to say a few words about Mme Walcott, Dr. Martine Fisher, Director of the World Language Department stated that “Dianne has proven her commitment to the Milton Public Schools and the Collicot School time and time again. She will be remembered for the quality of her work, but also for her kindness and her understated manner. Her quiet strength, love of children, commitment to teaching and learning, as well as her remarkable proficiency in French have inspired many of her colleagues and have motivated countless students to reach their potential, both in the classroom and in their relationships with others. We wish Mme Walcott happiness and good fortune in her retirement.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE UPDATE

There has been one School Committee meeting since my last E-blast. I will summarize that meeting in the next E-blast. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, June 14th at 7 pm in the Milton TV Access Studio, Room 245, Milton High School. This meeting will be preceded by a Volunteer Reception in the MHS Cafeteria at 6pm.

CURRICULUM NEWS

It’s Time, It’s Time!!! Have you registered or reactivated your child’s Summer Reading Challenge account? MPS is proud to partner with the Milton Public Library once again to ensure that all students have ample access to everything that the library has to offer and a place to enter their minutes read. It is the expectation of the Milton Public Schools that each child at the elementary level read a minimum of 20-30 minutes a day. Please visit https://miltonlibrary.beanstack.org to register or reactivate your child’s account. If you have any difficulty or have any questions please feel free to email Sara Truog, MPL Children’s Librarian at struog@ocln.org or Marti O’Keefe McKenna MPS Family Outreach Liaison at mmckenna@miltonps.org or 617 980 7343.
Our hope is that each and every student in the Milton Public Schools registers and logs all of their reading this summer. Along with all the benefits provided by the Milton Public Library and reading itself, students who actively participate will be eligible for grade level raffles and prizes in September in school. Have a great summer and KEEP READING!!

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In my E-blast last week, I noted that our talented music students were invited to perform at the JFK Library for what would have been President Kennedy’s 100th birthday. The video of the Milton High School string orchestra is on the library’s website. Please take a moment to see our amazing MPS musicians!

https://www.facebook.com/JFKLibrary/videos/10150954858314956/

There will be two more opportunities for Milton students to perform at the JFK Library:

Milton High School Mixed Chorus:      June 14th at 2:00PM
Pierce Middle School Girls Chorus:    June 15th at 3:00PM

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The following item was submitted by Elementary Librarian Lori Henry:

Some of our Tucker fourth grade students helped unpack the MFE Grant books this week and place plates in each book acknowledging the generosity of the MFE. They were very excited about the new acquisitions as you can see!

tuckerbook1 tuckerbook2

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The following item was submitted by Danielle Huebner, Pierce Middle School Latin Teacher:

We can be very proud to have students who have performed excellently on the National Latin and National Mythology Exams again this year at Pierce Middle School.

National Latin Exam Results: There are over 150,000 students from all over the world who take this prestigious exam (from our 50 states and 13 foreign countries), so it is very competitive and the awards are truly merited. All of the students on the list below scored above the national average! Nine award winners!

National Mythology Exam Results: On the National Mythology Exam this year, even more great news; 12 medalists! This is another nationally recognized exam with students who participate from all over the country.

Please see the list below and this link to a google folder containing some photos of our proud winners.
(https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B393S0URtTqINmd1S0Z3b3JTSkU?usp=sharing).

classic

 

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The following item was submitted by Director of Fine and Applied Arts, Dawn Sykes:

On Friday, June 2nd, the Pierce Middle School performing ensembles participated in the Great East Music Festival with overwhelming success! Nearly 250 students in the 7th and 8th grade band, chorus and string ensembles performed, receiving the highest ratings:

Concert Band 7 & 8: GOLD Award
Boys Chorus 7 & 8: GOLD Award
Girls Chorus 7 & 8: PLATINUM Award
String Ensemble 7 & 8: PLATINUM Award

This year’s festival provided students an opportunity to perform in the Methuen Memorial Music Hall, a professional performance space that houses the beautiful and historic Great Organ. After each performance, students received a comprehensive workshop and a rating of achievement by an expert clinician. The day closed with an afternoon of celebration at Canobie Lake Park. Congratulations to the Pierce Music Department Ensemble Directors, Morgan Schneider, Julia Hanna, and Debra Thoresen, and their students for this outstanding achievement!

String Ensemble 7 & 8
https://youtu.be/r_mvQ9mZc4k
Boys Chorus 7 & 8
https://youtu.be/jie8j2Xqrjg
Concert Band 7 & 8
https://youtu.be/Sye5D1VEEDU
Girls Chorus 7 & 8
https://youtu.be/VUUaRfCpaWk
Girls Chorus 7 & 8- Awarded Platinum
https://youtu.be/8yRR36hGSJM

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The following item was sent to us by Christie Chiappetta, Middle School Science Coordinator:

Earlier this month, three students from the Pierce Middle School participated in the Massachusetts Middle School State Science Fair at Worcester Technical High School. We are excited to share that eighth grader, Anna Fahy earned a Third Place award for her project How Should Referees Pump Up Their Soccer Balls in Order to Compensate for Players of Varying Ages? and 7th graders Barron Clancy and Anderson Korman earned a Second Place award for their project How Do We Filter Oil From Storm Drains? There were 290 projects at the fair and only the top 20% received awards, making this an incredible accomplishment. Anna, Barron and Anderson advanced to the State Science Fair after being recognized at the Region V Middle School Science Fair at Regis College in April. We are incredibly proud of their outstanding work!

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The following item was sent to us by Elementary Science Coordinator Bernadette Butler:

Yesterday, NBC came to Cunningham School to teach the third graders about extreme weather and also show them the Weather Warrior vehicle, which is used to collect and track local weather data. The third graders were amazed at the fun facts NBC Meteorologist Chris Gloninger taught them. This program is a free outreach program that NBC does for local schools. Our third graders were shown on the early morning news this morning, and you can check it out by following the link below: http://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/Weather-Warrior-Feature-Page-415882533.html

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The following item was sent to us by Noel Vigue, Director of Physical Education and Health:

Thank you all for your support of Screenagers! It was a great success, we had over 350 people between the two sessions. The early session wasn’t as well attended but there were families that participated and benefited from the experience. It was especially powerful to see all the students with adults in the audience and several elementary students participated in the moderated discussion, offering advice and their opinions. Dr. Burke was outstanding, she provided clear and concise advice for solutions and helped facilitate a learning discussion that had several valuable takeaways. We provided all that attended the parent handout with helpful tips and resource list. We plan to continue to provide family/community support around these health/wellness/safety subjects. Please see this handout from the event, which contains very helpful information:

screenagers

 

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Several MPS staff members attended the recent Norfolk County Teachers Association Awards Ceremony, where Glover Elementary Teacher Margaret Turner and MPS Payroll Clerk Barbara Pakalnietis were honored for their years of service. Well deserved!
NCTA award

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Tucker Elementary School recently celebrated Career Day. Parents/Guardians of Tucker students, as well as community members, came to Tucker to speak about their careers.

Boston Police Officers Capt. Haseeb Hosein, Sgt. Tommy Brooks and Patrolman Cliff Davis spoke to the students about law enforcement careers and explained the concept of community policing. Dr. Elaine Craghead, a Humanities Professor at Massachusetts Maritime Academy and member of the Milton School Committee spoke about her career and the mission of Mass Maritime. Milton Firefighters John Earner, John Cardile and Malik Gibbons demonstrated the use of their equipment, spoke about fire safety and described the duties of a firefighter. Sheila Varela, lead Acquisitions Specialist at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and Vice Chair of the Milton School Committee, spoke about the field of publishing and brought several textbooks to show the students. Former NBA player and current insurance and financial services professional Danya Abrams spoke about his transition from professional athlete to a career in finance. Boston Public Schools Psychologist Dr. Ayanna Quinones talked to students about mental health issues and the various career options for psychologists. Helene Norton Russell, Professor of Sociology at Johnson & Wales University, discussed her work teaching introductory sociology courses to undergraduates. Milton Public Library’s Children’s Librarian, Sara Truog, brought several books to read and talked to the students about careers in library science. Cecil Thomas, a chef at Boston University, demonstrated some cooking techniques and spoke to students about the field of hospitality and food service. Susan Carty, Director of Admissions at Emmanuel College, spoke to the students about the importance of education and what is required to gain admission to college.

Students had opportunities to ask questions and interact with the speakers. Each student attended three different presentations and learned about three different potential careers. Tucker fourth-graders are already looking forward to next year’s Career Day.

 

tucker career day

Caption for Photo: Back row, from left: Chef Cecil Thomas, Tucker Teacher Shannon Brooks, Milton Firefighters John Cardile and Maliek Gibbons, Investment Professional and former NBA Player Danya Abrams, MPL Children’s Librarian Sara Truog, Director of Admissions, Suzanne Carty, Mass. Maritime Professor, Dr. Elaine Craghead and Educational Publishing Professional Sheila Varela. Front row (kneeling): Boston Police Patrolman Cliff Davis, BPD Sergeant Tommy Brooks, Milton Fire Department’s John Earner, BPD Capt. Haseeb Hosein, Psychologist Dr. Ayanna Quinones and Professor of Sociology, Helene Norton Russell.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

The following item was submitted by Bernadette Butler and Cat DesRoche, Co-Directors of Milton Summer Enrichment (MSE.)

Hello Milton Families! Thank you to those who have registered your student(s) for Milton Summer Enrichment! In order to ensure a smooth start to the program, we are requiring that all families pick up student schedules prior to the start of the program.  We are offering three opportunities to do this at various times of the day and week:

  • Thursday, June 8th:   3-8 pm Milton High School Lobby
  • Monday, June 12th:   5-8 pm Milton High School Lobby
  • Saturday, June 17th:   9-12 pm Copeland Field House Lobby

When you arrive, you will receive the following:

  • Schedule for each student you have registered on a lanyard (Save and bring to MSE each day)
  • Map of updated dismissal plan
  • General MSE Information and reminders

In addition, if your student needs to have a prescription/medicine on hand through MSE, we are offering two drop off dates so that the first week can go smoothly. This is a great opportunity to meet the MSE nurse and ask any questions you might have and/or share relevant information about your child/ren.  Please choose one of the following dates/times:

  • Tuesday, June 20th: 3-5 pm Milton High School Lobby
  • Thursday, June 22nd: 3-5 pm Milton High School Lobby

Please do not hesitate to email us with any questions or concerns. You can reach us at mse@miltonps.org

UPCOMING MPS EVENTS

Pierce Players are proud to announce this weekend’s performance of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Performances will be TONIGHT June 9th at 7pm and Saturday June 10th at 2pm. For more information, click this link:  http://www.miltonps.org/images/poster.jpg

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Also, please join members of the MPS community on Wednesday, June 14th from 6-7:30pm for the 5th grade ACE Art Show in the Keyes Room at the Milton Public Library. Artwork from all four elementary schools will be on display as well as student work inspired by beloved art teacher, Ms. Clavette.

Through the generosity of our amazing community, each elementary school received two art display towers in loving memory of Caitlin Clavette. We hope you can join us to view the amazing work of our 5th grade ACE students and artwork inspired by Ms. Clavette displayed on our new art display towers.

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING NEWS

The following item was submitted by Laurie Stillman, District SEL Facilitator:

Warning Signs of Children Using Alcohol and Drugs
Adolescence is a time of change and growth, including behavior changes. These changes are usually a normal part of growing up but can sometimes point to an alcohol or drug problem. Parents and caregivers should pay close attention to the following warning signs that may indicate underage drinking or substance abuse:
• Changes in mood, including anger and irritability
• Withdrawal, social isolation or other signs of depression
• Academic and/or behavioral problems in school
• Change in motivation to perform in school
• Rebelliousness
• Deceitfulness
• Interest in pro-drug culture (music/movies/literature)
• Difficultly with communication
• Restlessness or giddiness
• Changing groups of friends or avoiding old friends
• Low energy level/fatigue
• Reduced interest in activities and/or care in appearance
• Finding alcohol, drugs or paraphernalia among a teen’s things
• Smelling alcohol or “minty cover-up odor” on a teen’s breath
• Problems concentrating and/or remembering
• Slurred speech
• Coordination problems
• Coming home after curfew and avoiding interaction
• Bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
• Sudden concern for privacy or locking bedroom doors

From Under the Right Influence 2017, an excellent guide for parents. http://www.southshorehospital.org/workfiles/Health_and_Wellness/YHC_2017-Prom-Booklet_Final.pdf

RESIDENCY NEWS

In the Spring of 2015, the Milton School Committee passed a Residency Policy that states “students who are enrolled in the Milton Public Schools shall be required to re-establish residency prior to entering grades six and nine as well as Milton Public School students who attend school out-of-town*.”

Families who have students in these categories are required to fill out the form that has been mailed to their homes or go to the following link  and provide all necessary documentation.

This process, now in its third year, is one of the safeguards used by the Milton Public Schools to ensure that all students enrolled in our schools are residents of the town of Milton. Although the re-registration process may be an inconvenience for some families, we hope that residents understand that this is a valuable tool to protect taxpayers in the town of Milton. We work year-round on residency issues and this is simply one more method to assist us with ensuring residency compliance.

Ms. Patty Lesenechal, Milton Public Schools Residency Coordinator, will be working morning and evening hours all summer beginning the last week of June to facilitate parents/guardians work schedules. Summer hours and deadlines will be announced in next week’s E-blast.

Ms. Lesenechal can be reached at 617-696-4470 ext 5516 or at plesenechal@miltonps.org

*This includes all students who attend Blue Hills Regional Technical School, Norfolk County Agricultural High School and Special Education out-of-district placements for students entering Grades 6 and 9.

GRANT/FUNDRAISING NEWS

Stop by the Cunningham/Collicot driveway on Saturday, June 17th from 9am to noon to help support our State and All-State Championship Milton High School Girls Track team’s car wash.  The girls are washing cars to help raise money for team travel expenses to North Carolina to compete at Nationals.  The girls will also be selling raffle tickets at this car wash for a Yeti cooler (Tundra 45) with $100 worth of Kinnealy Meat. Stop by next Saturday morning!

FROM THE READERS

This week, instead of an article, one of our readers sent us a link to a Ted Talk on a very pertinent topic, STEAM. Please click the link below to listen:
https://www.ted.com/playlists/509/things_to_do_to_make_steam_lea

NEWS AROUND TOWN

The following item was submitted by We Are Milton:

The 2017 Milton Music Fest, Fireworks and Celtic Sunday will be held June 24th and June 25th.
Saturday’s Events: 3pm-10:30pm Sit and enjoy the splendid view of Boston from Governor Hutchinson’s field on Adams Street in Milton. Our top-notch line up of musicians will fill the air with many of your favorite tunes. There will be lots of food, fun and music throughout the day and evening at this free event. We will have our own 9 hole mini golf. A giant sandbox will keep the young ones occupied while you enjoy the music. Play a game of corn hole or volleyball or one of our other old fashioned games. A giant inflatable slide combo, a favorite from last year will be on hand. We’ll also be visited by some surprise characters and have free air brush tattoos. Music kicks off at 3pm with many local Milton and Quincy artists. At 4pm the Bob Marley tribute band, “The Duppy Conquers” take the stage. Franc Graham band is at 5pm followed by The Neville Sisters at 5:30pm. At 6pm the Trasak Trio burns up the stage with the fastest violin in the East! Charlie Daniels had nothing on these guys. Divas with a Twist are on board at 6:45pm and they always fill up the dance floor! At 8pm, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the band Chicago, we have brought in the Chicago Total Access tribute band. This ten-piece band complete with horns will bring the crowd to their feet.

When the sky darkens and the lights twinkle in the distance, the fireworks will light up the night with the Boston and Quincy skyline as your backdrop. This will truly be a night to remember. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray! Go to We Are Milton.org for updates and free shuttle information.
Sunday’s Events: 1pm-8:30pm: We once again present: Celtic Sunday. The afternoon will feature many of Boston’s best Irish bands, musicians and vocalists. Celtic Sunday is all about outstanding Irish and Celtic Music. This year, is a celebration of the Boston Irish music community. We are pleased to host the very popular Margaret Dalton and Erin’s Melody, Jinty McGrath, Danny Gill and “The Old Brigade,” Sean Brennan and “The Skiffs,” Curragh’s Fancy, The Fenian Sons, Milton’s Pauline Wells, DEVRI and other prominent Irish performers. Celtic Sunday will once again provide attendees an afternoon of brilliant music, great food and refreshment at a magnificent location overlooking the Neponset river basin and the Boston skyline. Grab your chair and sunscreen. There will be something for everyone, young and old.

The Milton Music Festival and Celtic Sunday is a FREE two day community event. Parking is also free with continuous shuttles to and from the field. Beer, wine and a variety of food will be available for purchase. No outside alcoholic beverages are permitted. For more information on performers, scheduled times, parking, supporters, and volunteer opportunities, please go to: www.wearemilton.org

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The following item was submitted by Robert McCrystal with Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Milton:

 Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Milton will hold its eighth annual Community Health Walk and Health Fair on Saturday, June 10, from 9:30 am – 2 pm at the hospital, located at 199 Reedsdale Road, Milton.

The family-oriented, health and wellness event starts at 9:30 am with registration for a 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) or a one-mile walk which will start at 10 am from the hospital’s Highland Street Parking Lot.

The walks will be followed by family-oriented events including face painting, children’s obstacle course, tours of several emergency response vehicles and DJ entertainment. A free barbeque lunch will be available starting at 12 noon.

Boston Red Sox mascot Wally the Green Monster will once again stop by and be available to meet and be photographed with kids of all ages from 11 – 11:45 am.

Returning this year will be the Teddy Bear Clinic, a hit at the event last year. Children can bring their sick or injured bears to be evaluated and treated by BID-Milton Emergency Department staff. A community health fair in the hospital’s main lobby will begin at 11 am. Health screenings, including hearing and vision tests, will be available as will displays and information from area health and wellness providers.

The hospital will also formally award its Community Health Grants to several local organizations whose programs address the primary health needs of the community. Funds raised at the event will go towards the hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. Visit the hospital’s website at www.bidmilton.org/walk  to download registration forms. Registration is $5 per walker, except children under the age of 12 who are free.

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Save the Date!!! The Milton Playground Planners are holding a ribbon cutting at the new playground at Shields Park on Saturday, June 24 at 9:00 am. All are invited (though parking is limited)!

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The following item was submitted by Patti Dobrindt of the Milton Junior Woman’s Club:

The 40th annual Milton Road Race will be run Tuesday, June 13th, 2017 starting and finishing at Cunningham Hall. The race is hosted and organized by the Milton Junior Woman’s Club. The first 500 registered runners receive a swag bag with fun goodies in it including a 40th anniversary t-shirt! The last 3 years we have had more than 800 runners participate in the race between the 5K and 10K runs. All the proceeds for the race go back into our community in the form of grants to local non profits and scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are Milton residents.
We are sponsored by many local organizations including these GOLD sponsors: Reebok, Symmons Industries, LLM Design, ProForma Printing and Promotion, the Cunningham Foundation and Fallon Ambulance along with the Milton Police Department, Milton Fire Department and the Milton Department of Public Works. We could not put on this event with out all their help. We are also grateful to have an amazing community turn out every year with lots of families running. Many of the schools create teams as well. Check in with your principal to see who the school captain is– or start a team for your school!

We have big plans for this year’s race including live entertainment and kids activities!! I hope you will join us and make the event a huge success!! The link to register is www.miltonroadrace.racewire.com Online registration is $30 for adults (19 and older) $20 for youth (18 and younger). In person registration is $35 for adults- the youth rate is the same.

MILTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

The following item was submitted by Sara Truog, Children’s Librarian:

Happy end of school – and welcome to summertime fun at the Milton Public Library! Fun family activities including books, programs, coloring, games, puppets and more are available every day for you to check out in the Children’s Room. Summer also means that it’s time to participate in the Library’s Summer Reading Challenge. It’s an on-your-own, do-it-anywhere, totally FREE reading program for kids entering kindergarten through entering grade 6 in September. Participants read any books they want starting June 22, track how many minutes they read, and enter their minutes read on our website. By reading and logging, you become eligible to win prizes, attend programs, and more. This year’s theme is Build a Better World, and registration is available on our website at www.miltonlibrary.org.

In addition to our regular storytimes on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, we have these exciting programs for the young people in your life happening during the week of June 18 – 24:

Thursday, June 22, 2017 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Summer Reading Kickoff with Robert Rivest, All Ages

To celebrate the kickoff of the Library’s 2017 Summer Reading Challenge: Build a Better World, please join us for a performance by comic mime Robert Rivest! Robert entertains audiences of all ages while joyfully motivating them to build a better inner and outer world. Using mime, comedy, and interactive playfulness, Robert shares mindful ways that we can work together to build a brighter, kinder, future. This fun family show is full of audience participation! For all ages. No registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Milton Public Library. This event will be followed by a delicious snack of strawberries and cream at the Library entrance, provided by the Friends.

Friday, June 23, 2017 from 10:00 – 11:00 am
Yoga with Jill, Ages 3-5

Children ages 3-5 are invited to come to this fun time learning yoga with Jill Pokaski Azar, certified yoga instructor. Registration is required (separate sign up for each session) and will open two weeks before each class. Sponsored by the Friends of the Milton Public Library.
Don’t forget to check the library web calendar for a listing of the many programs we offer year-round. Information about and registration for all of our programs can always be found on our online calendar at www.miltonlibrary.org, or by calling the Children’s Room at 617-898-4957 during business hours. Also, like the Milton Public Library Children’s Room on Facebook and get updates right in your news feed! Please contact the Children’s Room if you have questions about any of our programs or services.
To see a complete listing of library events, please click here:
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=MILTONPL

VISUAL ARTS

The following item was submitted by Jessica Gillooly, Elementary Art Teacher:

We had an exciting week at Tucker with our visiting artist Szu-Chieh Yun. Szu-Chieh Yun is a local Boston artist that shared her art and experiences with the school and with parents during a community night. She brainstormed with the students what the word Unity means for Tucker and incorporated the words they shared into a painting design for the Tucker school. Here are some photos of the students working on the paintings that were inspired by the word UNITY. We had a great visit!

tuckerartists2 tuckerartist3

ATHLETICS

The following item was submitted by Milton High School Principal James Jette:

I am pleased to announce that Mr. William “Billy” Donovan will be the next Head Coach of the Boys’ Varsity Basketball Team for Milton High School.
Mr. Donovan has many years of coaching experience and a wealth of basketball knowledge that the Screening Committee overwhelmingly felt would be a great fit for the team. The screening committee stated that “Mr. Donovan was by far the most prepared, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and qualified candidate we interviewed. Mr. Donovan presented this Committee with countless testimonials from former students, players, and parents espousing not only his coaching skills but his genuine concern and care for the Milton community and it’s children”. I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Donovan today and I agree with the Committee’s recommendation. I am sure you join me in congratulating Mr. Donovan as Milton High School’s new Boys’ Varsity Basketball Coach.

The following item was sent in by MHS Athletic Director Eric Karjel:

Rugby: The Milton Ruggers took advantage of a depleted Algonquin squad on Friday, by dismantling them 61-10 in the semi-finals. The match took place at Curry College. Just over a week from beating Algonquin to earn the #2 seed, the Wildcats were required to repeat the task of taking down the T-Hawks. It could not have gone any more smoothly. Milton led 55-5 at the half, and kept the pace after the break. They will play Hanover on Saturday. The Wildcats finished (5-1) while Hanover finished (2-3-1). Milton’s only loss came against Marshfield, while they handled Hanover during the regular season. The final will take place at Endicott College on Saturday, June 10th at 2:30pm.
Outdoor Track: Congratulations to the Girls Outdoor Track Team, who in recent weeks have won the Bay State Championships, along with both the D3 State Championship and the All State Championships.

At the D3 State Championships, standout performances were achieved by Elise O’Leary (State Champ in the 400 meter dash); and the 4×100 relay team of Abigail Jean Baptiste, Alexis Daly, Jayda Dillon and Dayajna Roache, who took first place and broke the meet record for this race. Also, Jessy Iwuala won the state title for the High Jump at this meet.

At the All State Meet, the Milton Girls brought home the trophy with the help of many of the team’s runners, sprinters, jumpers and throwers. School records were broken at this meet by Elise O’Leary in both the 400m hurdles and the 400 meter dash AND by Jessy Iwuala in the Pentathlon.

Several of the girls are headed to North Carolina this month to compete at Nationals. Please see the item above with information about the girls’ upcoming car wash and Yeti raffle to raise money for this trip. If you would like to donate to this cause, please visit the car wash on June 17th or send a check to: MHS Girls Outdoor Track Nationals, c/o Milton High School Athletics, 25 Gild Road, Milton, MA  02186 or email Coach Shaw at tshaw@miltonps.org

Also, congratulations to sophomore Smith Charles, who captured first place in the 100- and 200-meters at States; and also won first and second at All States in the long jump and 100 meter dash.

For sports schedules for all MHS teams, please click here: http://schedules.schedulestar.com/Milton-High-School-Milton-MA/season/08-28-2015/

AMBASSADOR PAGE

As part of our E-blast, we highlight students, teachers and members of the community whose hard work deserves recognition. Please read about some of their outstanding accomplishments below:

Students: Congratulations to all three of Pierce Middle School students who qualified for the Massachusetts State Science Fair. Anderson Korman and Barron Clancy took 2nd place and Anna Fahey took 3rd place at Saturday’s State Science Fair. Great work by our outstanding Pierce students!!

Staff: I would like to recognize our MHS Adjustment Counselor Jennie Beliveau, who was recently recognized with the Teacher Appreciation Award at Scholastic Awards Night by her students. Ms. Beliveau is one of the unsung heroes of our district and we appreciate the work she does each and every day. This award was recognition of her talent, hard work and dedication.

Volunteers: I would like to thank the outgoing Milton Foundation for Education Board Members, all of whom are selfless, gifted and talented volunteers whose hard work enriches and enhances the educational experience of each and every Milton Public School student. Many thanks to Beth Plunkett, Susan Sullivan, Julie Ritchie, Sheila Leddy, Denise Queally and Amy Flanagan for your hours, days, weeks, months and years of service on the Milton Foundation for Education.

The Milton Public School system does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, gender identity, transgender status, gender transitioning, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, pregnancy/parenting status, marital status, sexual orientation, homelessness, or military status, in any of its programs, activities or operations. These include, but are not limited to, admissions, equal access to programs and activities, hiring and firing of staff, provision of and access to programs and services, as well as selection of volunteers, vendors and employers recruiting at the Milton Public Schools. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, students, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Asst. Superintendent for Curriculum & Human Resources, 617-696-4812

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