WPS Superintendent Updates
Talking Points
Recently, our schools began the use of TalkingPoints to improve two-way communication between teachers and families. Families can send and receive messages either by text or accessing the TalkingPoints app. TalkingPoints connects one phone number per household (generally the first phone number on record in Aspen). If you would like more than one household member to receive TalkingPoints messages, access the instruction HERE.
If you have trouble with TalkingPoints, please send an email to helpdesk@walpole.k12.ma.us.
Beads of Hope: Walpole Students Spreading Kindness
A big shout-out to our Walpole Middle School students who continue to create “Beads of Hope” bracelets for cancer patients. These handmade bracelets have been delivered to local hospitals with the goal of bringing a bit of light and encouragement to those undergoing difficult treatments.
We recently received heartfelt messages from both patients and hospital staff expressing their gratitude for the bracelets made by Walpole students. One letter read:
“Today I received a lovely bracelet made by one of your sweet students to cheer me through my treatment. It warmed my heart to know your Beads of Hope program is teaching caring, compassion, and generosity. My bracelet reads ‘Unstoppable,’ and wearing it will remind me daily that I am.”
It’s inspiring to know that our students’ creativity and compassion are making a difference in the lives of so many. A special thank-you to teacher Ms. Rehm for spearheading this meaningful project—an incredible example of kindness, empathy, and community spirit in action.
WHS Speech & Debate Team Makes Their Mark at Yale
Congratulations to the WHS Speech and Debate Team on an outstanding performance at the Yale Invitational. Aaron Arora and Swara Sonchhatra advanced to the semi-finals, finishing 8th overall, and Vanya Singh advanced to the Octofinals. The team enjoyed reconnecting with WHS Graduate Sarah Mukkuzhi who is in her freshman year at Yale.
MCAS
MCAS performance reports will be mailed out to families this month. If you have questions regarding your child’s report, please contact your child’s teacher or the building administrator. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Hahn will give a districtwide summary presentation at a future School Committee meeting.
Scholarship Applications
The Fales, Leach, Rogers, and Kunde Scholarship applications are due October 31st. The application can be found on the District Website or at the Superintendent's Office. Awards shall be distributed to undergraduates at four-year accredited colleges. To be eligible for these scholarships, the student must be a graduate of Walpole High School.
Walpole Middle School Shines Gold with LEED Certification
Walpole Middle School has been awarded LEED Gold Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This distinction places WMS among a select group of innovative, sustainable buildings that prioritize health, well-being, and environmental responsibility. LEED-certified buildings offer improved indoor air quality and comfort while saving money, enhancing efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and creating healthier spaces for students and staff.
Interface
Walpole continues to partner with William James College INTERFACE Referral Service for community access to the Mental Health Referral Helpline. This is a free, confidential mental health outpatient referral service for children, adults, and families. Callers are matched with licensed mental health providers from INTERFACE’s extensive database.
Walpole High School Renovation Project
The Walpole High School Renovation Project website features latest updates including floorplans, the project timeline, and a detailed FAQ section. If you have any questions after reviewing the FAQ, scroll to the bottom of the page to submit your inquiry.
Free and Reduced Meal Applications
While school meals are free for all students this year, it is still very important for families to complete the Household Application for Free and Reduced Price Meals for the 2025-2026 school year if they feel they may qualify. Completing this form may entitle your child to other benefits such as waived or reduced fees for bus transportation, college applications, SATS, or other community programs. The application can be found here. Questions can be directed to Maria Hall, Food Services Director at mhall@walpole.k12.ma.us or by calling 508-660-7200 x 5321.
Additionally, families may consider applying for SNAP, the federal nutrition program that provides eligible residents with monthly financial assistance to purchase groceries. More SNAP information can be found here or by calling Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333.