September 12th E-blast

 

FROM THE DESK OF THE SUPERINTENDENT

I want to be sure that everyone in the Milton Public School community is aware of our upcoming Open House dates. For those of you who are new to the Milton Public Schools, or whose child is enrolled in a new school this year, I cannot encourage you strongly enough to consider attending this event.

Open Houses are an excellent opportunity for parents/guardians to get a sense of what goes on in each of our buildings during the school day. It is also a chance to meet your child’s teachers, peruse the classrooms and meet other parents.

Open House is a very different event from our Conferences, during which teachers speak to parents/guardians about their child’s individual progress.  An Open House event gives a more general overview of the curriculum and allows parents/guardians an opportunity to ask questions about homework policies, makeup work, etc. This is a great opportunity for you to get acquainted with the content, instruction and expectations of each class in your child’s schedule.

Besides hearing about what your child will be learning and how that learning will take place, the Open House gives opportunities to connect with the school community. The school administration, nurse, physical education teacher and others will all be on-hand to answer questions.

The teachers are anticipating your questions, so don’t hesitate to ask.  As a reminder, Open House is for adults. We hope that you can make arrangements for child care so that parents/guardians are available to participate in Open House. I am confident it will not only help you to understand how our schools function, it will help your child, as well.  Please note the dates and times:

Milton High School: Monday, September 23rd at 6 pm.
Pierce Middle School: Tuesday, September 17th at 6:30 pm.
Collicot: Wednesday, September 25th at 6:30 pm.
Cunningham:  Monday, September 16th at 6:30 pm.
Glover:  Tuesday, September 24th at 6:30 pm.
Tucker:  Thursday, September 26th at 6:30 pm.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE UPDATE

There have been no School Committee meetings since my last E-blast. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 18th at 7 pm in the Milton High School library.

CURRICULUM NEWS

We are pleased to announce the appointments of two new staff members.  Edward Mulvey and Christie Chiappetta have accepted the part-time positions of Secondary Science Coordinators – Mr. Mulvey will be serving at Milton High School and Ms. Chiappetta will be serving at Pierce Middle School.

Edward Mulvey was previously employed at Canton High School, where he served as principal from 2003 to 2007. He also was the Science & Engineering Technology Coordinator, Assistant Principal, as well as Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Physical Science teacher.  Mr. Mulvey received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Boston State College; his master’s in Natural Science from the UMass/Boston; and has completed advanced coursework in Education/Administration/Science at Northeastern University, Fitchburg State College, UMass and University of Texas.  “Mr. Mulvey brings to an already fabulous group of teachers a wealth of knowledge and experience that will benefit the team,” said Milton High School Principal James Jette. “Mr. Mulvey is passionate about science and will engage our teachers in meaningful professional development opportunities and discussions, while focusing on improving the content knowledge, instruction and student achievement,” he said.

 Christie Chiappetta has extensive experience in middle school science teaching, curriculum development, assessment design and data use, professional development, and teacher leadership.  She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in the Natural Sciences from College of the Holy Cross and a Master of Education in Teaching and Curriculum from Harvard University Graduate School of Education.  Most recently, Mrs. Chiappetta served as a Science Teacher Coach and Evaluator for the Rhode Island Teaching Fellows New Teacher Project and as a Science Teacher Group Leader for Teach for America.  Mrs. Chiappetta also served as a middle school science teacher and science instructional coach in the Cambridge Public School District.   Mrs. Chiappetta also taught in the Bronx as well as Devens, MA.  In addition to her teaching, Mrs. Chiappetta has participated in national science education programs and professional development opportunities and presented at national science education conferences.  “Her deep understanding of effective middle school science instruction and skill in supporting teachers will be valuable assets to the development of the Pierce Middle School science program,” said Pierce Middle School Principal Dr. Karen Spaulding.

In addition, we have named Courtney Walsh as our new Adult Education director and Moira Downes as our Facilities Rentals Coordinator.

UPCOMING MPS EVENTS

A copy of the 2013-14 School Year Calendar is available online. Please click here to view it:
http://www.miltonps.org/documents/2013-14SchoolCalendar.pdf

PAC/SPECIAL ED NEWS

The Milton Special Education Parent Advisory Council (PAC) has elected a new board for the 2013-2014 school year. The PAC is currently engaged with the administration planning the PAC year. Congratulations to:

Jerry Vitti – Chairperson
Michelle Connolly- Vice Chairperson
Ann Finnegan – Treasurer
Kathy Fagan – Member at Large
Kevin Lenane – Member at Large
Terri James Solomon – Member at Large

The PAC board invites parents and guardians to check out their website for the latest news and meeting schedule:  http://www.miltonpac.org/

MFE NEWS

The following item was submitted by Meg Kaster of the Milton Foundation for Education:

 Every year the MFE awards up to $40,000 in teacher grants from its Annual Fund. These grants foster creative classroom atmospheres and capture the interest and imagination of our students. Thanks to the generous support of the parents, businesses and charitable organizations who give to the Milton Foundation for Education’s Annual Appeal. Please consider making your gift today online at www.miltonfoundationforeducation.org or by mail at MFE, PO Box 223, Milton, MA 02186. 

 If every Milton Public School family donated $25, we’d raise more than $75,000 to fund needs identified by teachers in all of our schools. 

Also, please save the date for the MFE’s 15th Annual Monster Dash which is set for Sunday, October 27thMore details will be included in a later E-blast.

NEWS AROUND TOWN

The following item was submitted by Allan Bishop of the Milton Department of Public Works:

 Household Hazardous Waste Collection: On Saturday, September 21st, the Milton Department of Public Works will hold a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day for Milton residents. Collection hours are from 9 a.m. to noon. No early arrivals! The collection takes place at the DPW Yard (629 Randolph Avenue), rain or shine.

 Materials should be left, where possible, in their original containers. Containers should be put in sturdy boxes and placed in the trunk of a vehicle so that contents will be easy to remove by the attendants. Residents will remain in their vehicles during the entire collection process.

The following items can be brought to the collection:

Adhesives and glues
Aerosol cans
Engine degreaser, brake & transmission fluid
Hobby and art supplies
Household cleaners and spot removers
Non-alkaline batteries (these are found in camcorders, cordless power tools,
cordless phones and laptop computers).
Oil-based paints
Photo chemicals and chemistry sets
Poisons, insecticides, pesticides, and
weed killers Solvents and varnishes
Swimming pool chemicals.
Waste fuels (kerosene, gasoline)
Wood preservatives and fiberglass residue 

These items will NOT be accepted:

Latex paint (for information on how to dispose of latex paint, please call the DPW)
Alkaline batteries such as AA, D, etc. (These can be placed in your trash)
Mercury-containing items and fluorescent bulbs (collected at the Recycling Center the first Saturday of each month)
Prescription medicine or syringes
Commercial or industrial waste
Asbestos

Except for the items listed below, the collection is free for Milton residents: 
Tires: $3 each
Car Batteries: Up to 3 for $3.00
Waste Oil, Antifreeze: Up to 3 gallons for $3.00
Propane Tanks: $3.00 each
Fire Extinguishers $3.00 each 

No cash will be accepted. Please pay by personal check or Trash Sticker.  For more information, please call the DPW at (617) 898-4900

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The following item was submitted by Glover parent Jennifer Driscoll:

Astound Your Senses at Opening Our Doors 2013:
The 12th Annual Celebration of FREE Arts and Cultural Events in
The Fenway Cultural District, Monday October 14th.


The Fenway Alliance is pleased to present the 12th Annual Opening Our Doors—the largest single day of free cultural experiences in Greater Boston and the signature multi-event celebration of the Fenway Cultural District, featuring over 60 activities in 17 indoor and outdoor venues.  Join the 22 institutions of the Fenway Alliance and 20 additional community organizations to experience unique performances and exhibits of art, music, dance, poetry, theatre and green space in one of Boston’s most treasured and historic neighborhoods.  Create your own works of art, dance, play, and eat.  Opening Our Doors is a free day of fun interactive culture for family and children; but there is artistry and experiences for all ages.

Join us as we officially start the day at 10 am. on Mass Ave side of the Christian Science Plaza in Boston, located near the intersection of the Avenue of the Arts (Huntington Ave.) and the Avenue of Music (Mass. Ave.) Special guest speakers, performances by the Boston Children’s Chorus, and Mayor Menino will kick-off the festivities followed by a parade led by the Hot Tamale Brass Band, and free cupcakes!  [In the event of rain the Kick-Off celebration will move to the Reflection Hall (formerly Sunday School Building) on the Christian Science Plaza next to Horticultural Hall.]. To learn more, visit:   www.fenwayculture.org <http://www.fenwayculture.org>  Facebook: Fenway Culture Boston. Follow us on Twitter @FenwayCulture.

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The following item was sent in by Lori Bilewicz of ¡CELEBRATEMILTON!


This year’s ¡CelebrateMilton! event will be held Sunday, October 6th from noon to 4 pm at Milton High School if the weather is good and at Collicot/Cunningham if it’s not.

¡CelebrateMilton! is a volunteer effort of Milton residents who actively encourage Milton’s diverse populations to appreciate and enjoy one another. We sponsor an annual event that has drawn thousands of residents since its beginning in 1994. The organization also recognizes outstanding residents with its Community Builder Awards, and supports community efforts with financial grants to organizations and individuals who bring our mission to life in the community. To find out more about this exciting event, please visit this site: www.celebratemilton.org

We are still seeking Family/Individual sponsorship for those of you who are interested in supporting us.  All Family/Individual sponsors are listed in the Milton Times, as well as our program guide, as long as pledges are received by September 19th. And this year, we’ve added a new category to our Family/Individual sponsor levels.  The “Friend” level is a $25 sponsorship.

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Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital/Milton is hosting its 19th Annual “Tee Off Golf Tournament” on Monday, September 23rd at the Wollaston Golf Club.  Net proceeds from this year’s golf tournament will help offset the costs of healthcare technology used to enhance the safety and efficiency of surgical care.  Implementation of  electronic medical record systems are proven to reduce medical errors and eliminate waste, and are essential for meeting federal requirements under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Your support today will help us to keep pace with new life-saving information technology in our operating rooms.    See the schedule below, and for more information, visit: http://www.miltonhospital.org/how-you-can-help/tee-off-2013/

Tournament Schedule

  • ·         10:00 a.m. Registration
  • ·         Putting Green and Driving Range Open
  • ·         11:00 a.m. Lunch
  • ·         12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start
  • ·         5:30 p.m. Evening Awards Reception: Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and silent auction

 MILTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Fall fun is happening in the Children’s Room at Milton Public Library!  In addition to our regular story times on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, we have these exciting programs for the young people in your life happening during the week of September 15-21:

Wednesday, September 18th  from 4:00 – 5:00 pm  “Remedial French Reading with Mr. Leite,” Grades 2-5.  In this program, beloved Tucker French teacher Mr. Leite will lead students in a French reading tutorial.  This class is for students in the French program in the Milton Public Schools who need help with reading, and is limited to ten students.  While this is a series, registration for each individual class is required.

Saturday, September 21st  from 2:00 – 3:00 pm “Mel O’Drama,” Ages 5-9. Kids are invited to join local drama teacher Melanie Grace Gillespie for a theatrical and creative hour of Mel O’Drama!  Students will enjoy such fun activities as warmups, improv games, voice projection, scene work, and movement.  Registration is required.

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. Please contact the Children’s Room if you have questions about any of our programs or services.

In addition, he Milton Public Library has a packed schedule for teens and adults for September. To see a complete listing of library events, please click here:

http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=MILTONPL

VISUAL ARTS

The Milton Art Center is now registering children, teens and tweens for the Fall season of art classes.  Please click here for course descriptions and dates:  http://www.miltonartcenter.org/

ATHLETICS

We are pleased to report that Milton High School will have three boats entered in the Head of the Charles competition this year. They are : Men’s Youth Fours; Men’s Youth Eights; and Women’s Youth Fours. The Head of the Charles, held October 19th and 20th, is the world’s premier rowing competition and is in its 49th year. It is a tremendous opportunity for our student athletes and coaches and will be a great experience for all involved. Come cheer them on! Their schedule is:

Sunday, October 20th.
Event 34      9:23 am     Men’s Youth Fours
Event 35     10:24 am     Men’s Youth Eights
Event 42     12:32 pm     Women’s Youth Fours

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The following information was sent in by Candy Brown of the MHS Booster Club:

The Milton High School Booster Club is a volunteer group of high school parents, coaches, students, and community members. Our mission is to enrich the MHS Athletic community and the community at large by providing financial support and assistance for the Milton High School Athletics. The organization raises money through various ways (membership, fundraising, concessions) so we can recognize our athletes and support their programs in a variety of ways.

The Boosters are kicking off the 2013/14 school year with several events to support all athletic programs.

  • Look for your Boosters membership application in the mail – coming soon to all Milton residents. The Boosters sponsor different levels of membership so please join and support your teams. All funds collected go to the teams, scholarships and the annual awards banquet.
  • The first Boosters meeting took place earlier this week, but it’s not too late to join.  Meetings are held at the High School; enter thru the field house, take a right and we meet in the first classroom on the right. Meetings take place the second Tuesday of the month and are open to everyone. Please stop by and find out what the Boosters are all about.
  • This Saturday, September 14th from 9 am to noon is the first ‘Cans for Cats’ drive. Various Milton High sports team fundraise for their teams by collecting 5 cent cans and bottles from our Milton community and redeem them for cash. Please support your Wildcats by stopping by the front entrance of the High School on 25 Gile Road.
  • Friday, September 20th from 5 to 7 pm is “Friday Night Under Lights” where the Boosters host a      cookout and sponsor events to kick-off the first home football game. Come to the pre-game cookout and participate in the spirit events then watch our Wildcats for an exciting night of football.
  • Coming again this fall: 2013 Swing for Sports Golf and Tennis event at Wollaston Country Club. Registration information will be added to the Boosters website soon at www.miltonboosters.com.
  • Don’t forget to support your athletes by buying Wildcat athletic wear – merchandise is sold at all      football games and at our indoor concession stand in the High School’s Copeland Field House.

MHS varsity football has its first game TONIGHT Thursday night (September 12th) at Mansfield at 7 pm.  The first home game will be Friday, September 20th  at 7pm vs Stoughton.  For sports schedules for all MHS teams, please click here:

http://www.usatodayhss.com/school/milton-high-school-milton-ma/scores-and-schedule

AMBASSADOR PAGE

Students:  Please join me in welcoming our new Kindergarteners along with their parents/guardians into the Milton Public Schools.   This year’s incoming Kindergarten class includes 316 students – our future class of 2026!

Staff:  I am very happy to recognize one of the most diligent employees in our district. Pam Dorsey has served as Director of Community Schools for more than 27 years. This demanding position requires the supervision of more than 600 students in our ESAP Program(before-school) and ASE Program (after-school). In addition, Community Schools, under the leadership of Ms. Dorsey, organizes school vacation camps, Camp Cunningham and a myriad of enrichment programs for our students. Community Schools employs many of our teachers and students during the school year and summer, provides community service for our teenagers and offers a plethora of options to our parents and guardians who need child care coverage. On top of all of this, Ms. Dorsey also serves as our Transportation Director and is responsible for the safe and efficient transport of more than 1,300 students in our town. I am constantly amazed by Ms. Dorsey’s organizational skills, the loyalty of her staff and the satisfaction of the parents and guardians who interact with her.  Many of you have heard me refer to Ms. Dorsey as “a legend in the Milton Public Schools”. I appreciate Ms. Dorsey and her staff’s dedication to the children of Milton.

Volunteers:  I would like to recognize our PTO presidents.  These volunteers are among the hardest-working people in the Milton Public Schools, and we are very grateful for all the hours they spend on behalf of our children.

Collicot: Mary Clare Cantor, Linda Stefanik, Kerry Kelly and Chuck Karimbakas
Cunningham: Kerry McLaughlin, Robyn  Quinn, Laura Woodward and Stephanie O’Keefe
Glover: Imge Ceragnolu, Christine Tobin.
Tucker: Kristen Lacasse, Cathy Madigan
Pierce: Sheila Varela, Karyn Viveiros, Marie Kelly, Terrie McManus, Trish Heelen
Milton High: Charlotte Hopkins, Kathy Peltier, Dawn Hayes,

The Milton Public School system is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the provision of quality educational programs for all students.  The Milton Public School system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, genetic information, age or sexual orientation.

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