Wednesday's Words

It is hard to believe we are already approaching the final stretch of the 2025/26 school year. With only a few weeks remaining, our hallways are buzzing with the energy of field days, class trips, and year-end performances. These moments are more than just fun—they are important milestones that allow us to reflect on and celebrate everything our students have achieved.

Navigating the Transition

While summer vacation is exciting, it is also a season of big transitions. It is perfectly normal for children to feel a mix of emotions—from joy and relief to sadness or anxiety. Some students thrive on the predictability of the school day and may feel uneasy about losing that routine or saying goodbye to the teachers and friends they’ve seen every day.

Our teachers will be leading a variety of classroom activities designed to help students process their journey and end the year on a high note. To support this transition at home, here are a few simple strategies to consider:

Tips for a Smooth Send-off

• Reflect Together: Ask your child what they are most proud of this year. Highlighting a new skill they’ve mastered or a favorite memory helps them see how much they’ve grown.

• Create a "Closing Ceremony": Endings matter. Whether it’s a family picnic, a hike, or a special game night, marking the occasion helps children transition mentally from "school mode" to "summer mode."

• Preview the Summer Routine: Discuss what a typical day will look like. Knowing what to expect—even if the schedule is more relaxed—can significantly reduce anxiety.

• Express Gratitude: Encourage your child to write a note or draw a picture for their teacher. It’s a wonderful way for them to find closure with the mentors who have supported them all year.

• Stay Connected: If your child is worried about missing friends, try to schedule a summer playdate or highlight upcoming camps and community events where they might see familiar faces.

Behind every successful student is a supportive family. Thank you for being our partners in education this year. Whether it was helping with homework and projects, volunteering for field trips, or simply ensuring your child arrived ready to learn, your impact has been felt.

As we close this chapter of the school year, we celebrate the resilience and curiosity your children have shown. Thank you for sharing them with us every day! Have a great last month of school!

Sincerely,

Ingrid Allardi

As we approach the end of the school year, many families ask about showing their appreciation for our hardworking educators. Because teachers are public employees, they are subject to the Massachusetts Conflict of Interest Law. To ensure our teachers remain in compliance, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Individual Gifts: Teachers may accept a personal gift from an individual student if the value is under $50.
• Class Gifts: A teacher may accept a collective "Class Gift" with a total value of up to $150 per year.
• Note: To qualify for this exemption, the gift must be from the entire class, and the names of individual contributors (and the amounts given) must remain anonymous.
• The "Either/Or" Rule: If a student contributes to a class gift, the teacher cannot accept an additional individual gift from that same student.
• Classroom Supplies: Gifts intended for use in the classroom (e.g., books, supplies, or equipment) are exempt from these limits, as they are considered gifts to the school rather than the individual.

While these rules are necessary for legal compliance, please know that your support and the privilege of teaching your children are the greatest rewards of all. We provide this information solely to assist those planning celebrations and to avoid any unintended complications.