WPS Superintendent Updates
Walpole Middle School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Last week, we celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for our new state-of-the-art middle school, a landmark achievement that showcases Walpole's commitment to investing in the next generation. This remarkable building provides an exceptional environment for learning and growth. Our community should take great pride in this addition, which will benefit our young learners for years to come. It’s hard to believe that 12 years have passed since we began this journey together, and this incredible school stands as a testament to the hard work, collaboration, and shared vision of all those involved. More than just bricks and mortar, this new middle school is a vibrant space where creativity and growth will thrive, inspiring our students to reach their fullest potential. This project symbolizes our dedication to educational excellence and also reflects the community's commitment to our children's education. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this school will have on our students and the entire Walpole community.
WHS Superintendent Student Cabinet
I am thrilled to announce that year two of the Superintendent Student Cabinet is now in session! Last month, the selected members convened for their first meeting. Their perspectives and insights are invaluable, and I have no doubt that their contributions will significantly influence the educational journey of their fellow students. I am excited about the collaborative work that lies ahead.
WPS Staff Present at MassCue
Last month, the MASSCue conference, New England's premier education technology event held at Gillette Stadium in partnership with the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (M.A.S.S.), brought together educators from across the region. Many of our district's talented technology support specialists and digital learning coaches were featured presenters, sharing their expertise on various topics: BJ Burke, Kim Farley (Sharing Student Voices with Multimedia Tools), Lindsey Morris (Got STEM?), Tom Reeve (Rethinking AI - Challenges and Assumptions in Crafting a Future-Ready Classroom), and Karen Wolffe (Tech It Up a Notch! Transform Your Teaching with the Top 10 AI Tools; Color Outside the Lines: Canva Beyond the Basics). We are truly grateful to our exceptional staff for representing our district and sharing their innovative ideas.
Town Meeting Recap
Last month marked the Fall Town Meeting. The proposed items, including two modular classrooms at Boyden and the WHS Renovation project were both approved. These investments are crucial for maintaining and enhancing the learning environment for our students. We are grateful to our Town Meeting members and the community for their ongoing support.
Snow Days
The Superintendent of Schools is ultimately responsible for the final decision to cancel school based on various weather-related factors and information received from the Department of Public Works. In the event of school cancellation or delayed opening, a recorded phone message will be sent to each family's phone contact, broadcasted through Channel 4, 5, 7, and Fox 25, Twitter, posted on the Walpole Public Schools app and district website, and an email will be sent to all families. As a reminder, DESE does not allow any district-wide remote learning days to replace a snow day, and therefore, any snow days will be made up in June.
Elementary Literacy Screening
Reminder: No School Monday, November 11th: Veterans Day
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 very important for families to still complete the Household Application for Free and Reduced Price Meals for the 2024-2025 school year. 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 calling 774-315-5640.
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.