Duval Dispatch

Dear Duval Families-

We have a big leadership announcement this week. As you know, over the past 2 months, members of our team have stepped into acting leadership roles to help ensure stability and continuity during a period of transition. We are deeply grateful for their willingness to lead with flexibility, professionalism, and care for our staff and students.

As you know, Dr. Marcus was voted by the School Committee to be the Interim Superintendent through this year and next school year. As a result, Ms. Craig has officially shifted to the Principal position and Mrs. Salmone has officially shifted to the Assistant Principal position. We have also hired Devon Tileston to be the first grade long-term sub for the rest of the school year.

Please know that this transition does not reflect a change in direction, but rather a commitment to steady leadership and clear decision-making. Our focus remains on supporting students, partnering with families, and fostering a positive and productive learning environment for all.

Thank you for your continued partnership, trust, and support as we move forward together. Ms. Craig and Mrs. Salamone are both excited and honored to shift into these important roles. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out!

Other updates:

- Please ensure you have a CORI on file if you plan to volunteer for end of the year events and/or field trips!

Have a wonderful week everyone!

Ms. Craig and Mrs. Salamone

- Students MUST come to school prepared to go outside which includes a coat. We know weather is changing, but it can be unexpectedly cold some days at recess. Please email Ms. Craig or Mrs. Salamone if you need help getting winter gear.

- Traffic around Duval is ONE WAY. Toward South Ave both in front and behind the school. There is NO PASSING during Drop Off or Pick Up.

- There is also no public access behind the building during school hours. Even if the cones aren't up, please don't drive around the building 9:20am-3pm.

- Please don't rely on a phone call or email during the day for dismissal changes. Unless it is an emergency, please send a note.

Here is the February News from Nurse Andersen. Please check it out HERE.

Thank you.

Hello Duval families!

Our Talent Show was last week and it was amazing! Seeing our students perform on stage is definitely one of highlights of our year. Thank you again to everyone who pitched in by volunteering their time or sending donations- these events wouldn’t be possible with you!

We will continue our dining partnership for March at Regal Marketplace. Please see the flyer for details- our dining partnerships have been so successful this year and have been a great way to connect with our amazing local businesses while also supporting Duval!

MCAS begins this week for 3rd grade. The PTO provides snacks for all students who are testing and we have some slots for 3rd, 4th and 5th grade parents who would like to help hand them out. We love to show these students some extra support and help brighten their test days! https://m.signupgenius.com/?#!/showSignUp/4090849A8AC2EA5FA7-62694849-mcas

This is also another reminder to check your CORI status. We have lots of fun spring events at Duval and you must have a CORI on file to participate. They are good for 2 years- just bring your ID to the front office and complete the paperwork anytime during school hours. If you’re unsure of your status please reach out to the main office.

We are also currently looking for nominations for the PTO board for next school year. All positions are open each year and a final vote will take place at our May PTO meeting on 5/12. With several board members moving on from Duval this year and next now is the time to get involved and help us keep traditions alive for our younger students. If you’re interested in learning more email us at duvalpto@gmail.com!

If you’re not currently following the Duval PTO Facebook page please join us as it’s the easiest place to get updates in real time- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1a2aDR9mMx/?mibextid=WC7FNe

We are always available for any questions or to provide more info at duvalpto@gmail.com.

Important upcoming dates:

3/23, 3/30: Regal Partnerships

4/14: April PTO meeting @ Duval

~Duval PTO

Dolphin TV is on Youtube for YOU to see!!

Our Channel is HERE to see all broadcasts. We did have a new episode on 3/20/26

Please click on Subscribe so our livestreams can be seen by more people!

March 26: MCAS ELA for 3rd Grade

March 30: MCAS ELA for 3rd Grade

March 31: MCAS ELA for 5th Grade

April 1: MCAS ELA for 5th Grade

April 3: Early Release Day

April 7: MCAS ELA for 4th Grade

April 8: Early Release Day - Conferences

April 9: MCAS ELA for 4th Grade

May 12: Spring Concert/All Band Night

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Calendar Items for the Year. Click HERE.

Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Time: 7pm (Band students arrive by 6:15pm for tuning and

warm-ups)

Where: WHRHS Performing Arts Center

Attire: White on top, Black on bottom, Black/dark shoes

Duval/Conley/HMS Grade 5 Combined Rehearsals:

Dates:

Tuesday 3/31

Tuesday 4/7

Tuesday 4/28

Where: Whitman Middle School Band Room

Time: 4-5pm

• WH Elementary Handbook

• School Lunch Menus

• Infinite Campus Log In for grades, class info. Need help? Contact Tech: 781-618-8100

• School Status (emails, texts from WH or Duval)

• YMCA Before/After School Care Information

• The WHRSD and Duval School PTO Facebook pages.

• Anonymous Bullying or Harassment reporting: call 781-618-7086

John H. Duval Elementary provides a safe, supportive environment where children are able to reach for the stars!

Email: ashley.craig@whrsd.org
Website: https://whd.whrsd.org
Location: 60 Regal Street, Whitman, MA 02382
Phone: 781-618-7055
Twitter: @DuvalElementary