WINTHROP WEEKLY
March 26th, 2026
Dear Winthrop Families and Caregivers,
Preparing for MCAS: A Message for Our Families
As we approach our upcoming MCAS (Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System) dates, we want to shift the focus from "test stress" to a celebration of learning.
In elementary school, these assessments are simply a snapshot in time, a way for us to see how our students are growing and where we can better support them. While we encourage every student to try their best, please remember that no test can measure your child's kindness, creativity, or the unique talents they bring to our halls every day. We are already so proud of the hard work they have put in this year!
To help your student feel confident and energized, we recommend focusing on a few simple routines at home. Aiming for a consistent bedtime and a healthy breakfast can make a world of difference in maintaining focus. We also suggest keeping your morning routine as calm as possible to help minimize any worries before they head out the door. Remind your child that they have the tools they need to succeed and that this is simply a chance to show off what they’ve learned.
Thank you for your partnership in making this a positive, low-pressure experience for our kids. If you have any questions regarding the schedule or specific accommodations, please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher.
Thank You,
Winthrop Administration Team
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Please see the FRIES Update:
Winthrop Science Festival
The Science Festival is less than one week away, and we can't wait to see what our students have been working on! All Winthrop families are welcome to attend.
March 31
6:30-7:30 PM
Winthrop Cafeteria
Snacks will be served by the Green Team, reach out to mduffy345@gmail.com if you would like to help volunteer at the refreshment table. For general science festival questions, email kshayd@gmail.com.
Annual Ice Cream for Breakfast Celebration
Join us for our annual treat! After breakfast, the playground will be open for kids to stay and play with friends.
April 11
9:00–10:30 AM
Winthrop Cafeteria
Register to attend: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ice-cream-for-breakfast
Volunteer to bring items and help serve ice cream: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0849A4AB2DA7FDC43-62756460-icecream
Teacher Appreciation Week
Help us celebrate our amazing teachers! FRIES is organizing special gifts and we’d love your support.
You can contribute to a group gift card for your child’s teacher. Any amount truly makes a difference. Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-change-lives-10194
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT VOLUNTEERING AT WINTHROP SCHOOL
In anticipation of a busy spring at Winthrop School and many opportunities to
volunteer, please check with the school office to see if your CORI is up to date or
if you do not have a CORI on file with Ipswich Public Schools, please reach out to
Mrs. Vlahos well in advance of when you plan to volunteer as it can take a week
or more for your CORI to process.
UPCOMING DATES
Friday, March 27th 9 am - Kindergarten - Visit from Local Farmer
Tuesday, March 31st 6:00-8:00 pm Winthrop Science Festival
Wednesday, April 1 7:00 pm - Grade 1 Concert
Wednesday, April 8th 3:00-3:45 pm SLC Math Masters