Brown Elementary Update

June 12, 2026
A note from the principal
Greetings Brown Families and Caregivers,
As we approach the end of this school year, I find myself reflecting on what an extraordinary privilege it has been to serve as your principal during my first year at Brown. When I arrived last August, I was welcomed by a community that embodies excellence, warmth, and genuine partnership—and I am deeply grateful.
This year, I have witnessed firsthand the magic that happens when families, teachers, and staff work together with shared purpose. From our many Brown School traditions to the countless ways you've supported our students' growth, it's clear that Brown is truly special. Your trust in our educators, your involvement in school events, and your commitment to our children's success have not gone unnoticed.
To our PTO and family volunteers: You are the heartbeat of our school. Whether you've served on committees, chaperoned field trips, contributed to fundraisers, or simply shown up with enthusiasm and energy—your dedication makes an immeasurable difference. Thank you for making Brown such a welcoming and connected community.
As your students enjoy their well-deserved break, I encourage you to keep the joy of learning alive at home! Here are some simple, fun ways to reinforce skills over the summer:
- Read together daily — Visit your local library, explore new genres, or revisit favorites. Let your child pick books that excite them!
- Math in everyday life — Cook together, play board games, or explore measurement during outdoor activities.
- Explore nature — Take nature walks, visit local parks, or start a small garden. Encourage observation and curiosity.
- Create and build — Art projects, LEGO creations, and DIY activities spark creativity and problem-solving.
- Practice writing — Encourage journaling, letter-writing to friends, or creating stories about summer adventures.
- Limit screen time — Balance technology with outdoor play, family time, and hands-on activities.
I am excited about the journey ahead. Your partnership, feedback, and involvement have shaped this year in remarkable ways, and I look forward to building on this foundation together. As we begin planning for next year, I am energized by the possibilities and the continued collaboration that will make Brown an even stronger community.
Thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of leading your school. Enjoy a restful, joyful summer with your families.
Warm regards,
Dr. Even
PAWSitive Office Referrals
Congratulations to the students who earned PAWSitive office referrals for demonstrating our PAWS core values in the last two weeks: Lucas in Ms. Schmid's class (no photo available), Vaanya in Ms. Barnes class, and Myra in Ms. Schott's class.
Seeking Volunteers for '26-'27 School Site Council
We are looking for two parents to join the Brown School Council for the '26-'27 School year. All public schools in Massachusetts are required by law to have a School Council. A School Council is a collaborative, decision-making body comprised of parents, teachers, administrators, and community. See here for more information about school councils in Massachusetts. The Brown Site council meets once a month for in the evenings for a one hour virtual meeting. If you are interested in serving on the school council, please email Dr. Even (jeven@natickps.org) by August 15th. If there are more than two family members interested, we will hold elections at the beginning of the '26-'27 school year.
Grade 4 Concert
A huge shout out Mr. Jodice and the fourth grade students for a remarkable chorus concert. Many thanks to the families who supported the preparations (and clean-up)!
Field Day
Congrats to Ms. Pestana and Dr. Dombroskas for organizing such a successful field day! Thank you to all of the family volunteers who came out for field day! A fun time was had by all!
ML Summer Academy
Please see this flyer about the K-6 Summer Multilingual Learner Academy. Please email Michelle Boyle (MBoyle@natickps.org) to register or ask questions.
What: K-6 Summer Multilingual Learner Academy
- English, Science, Math, Art, Engineering, and Physical Education
- Taught by current Natick Public Schools teachers
When:
- July 13 - July 31
- Monday - Thursday
- 8:00am - 12:00pm
Where: Natick High School
Transportation provided
Breakfast and lunch provided
Open Table's Fuel Up for Summer
Open Table food pantry is again offering our Fuel Up for Summer program to help families provide nutritious, free lunches and snacks for kids during the summer vacation, packaged appropriately so that they can bring them to summer camp/daycare programs.
The program starts this year on July 14th. Last year over 150 families participated.
Notes from the Nurse
There have been confirmed cases of head lice in several of our Natick Public School buildings. While head lice can be a nuisance, it is not a health concern. Please click to review the NPS policy on head lice (pediculosis). Our NPS nurses support policy that is grounded in evidence-based research rather than stigma or fear.
Please remember that it is the parents/guardians responsibility to conduct regular checks of their student’s hair, to begin AAP-approved treatment if any nits or lice are found, and to notify close contacts. In most cases, an infestation has likely been present for several weeks before detection.
Mental Health Support Available for Natick Students & Families
Dear Natick Families,
We want to highlight an important resource available to students and families through our partnership with Cartwheel. This service provides timely support for students experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges.
A few key points:
Students can typically meet with a licensed therapist within a few days
Appointments are virtual and designed to fit your schedule, including afternoons, evenings, and weekends
Services are available in multiple languages, including Spanish and Portuguese
MassHealth is fully covered, and most private insurance plans are accepted
Getting started is quick and straightforward—families can learn more and complete a brief interest form here. No referral is needed, and families can reach out whether concerns are emerging or ongoing
Supporting students’ mental health is a shared priority. We want to ensure families have clear, practical pathways to access care when it’s needed.
Reminders
No School - Friday, June 19th
Brown School will be closed on Friday June 19th in observance of Juneteenth.
Last Day of School - Early Release - June 23
Our last day of school will be Tuesday, June 23rd. Dismissal will be at 12:15. Please make any changes in Pick Up Patrol by 11:30AM. Have a great summer!
Pick Up Patrol
Make sure to update your default pick up plans in Pick Up Patrol (PUP). Any daily changes to your default plan must be entered on PUP by 1:30PM (11:30 on early release days). Please help us ensure that dismissal is safe and efficient for all Brown students!
Upcoming Events
Tuesday June 16 - Grade 1 Animal Habitats Presentations
Wednesday June 17 - Kindergarten Fun in the Sun, Grade 4 JJ Lane Field Trip
Thursday June 18 - RAIN DATE Kindergarten Fun in the Sun, Grade 4 JJ Lane Field Trip
Friday June 19 - No School - Juneteenth
Tuesday June 23 - Last Day of School - Early Release
Natick Food Resources
Please see the flyer below for food resources available in the community. Please use this link to access live links and translations.
Lunch Menu
School Calendar
Pages to Bookmark
Natick Public Schools does not discriminate in employment nor its educational programs, services, and activities based on race, creed, color, age, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, physical and intellectual differences, immigration status, homeless status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Please be aware all electronic communication to and from Natick Public Schools is public record and subject to public disclosure per Massachusetts General Law Chapter 66, Section 10.