FOWLER SCHOOL
Welcome Back: 2026-2027
Contact Information
3 Tiger Drive
978-897-6700
Principal- Keith Kinney kkinney@maynard.k12.ma.us
Assistant Principal-David Snyder dsnyder@maynard.k12.ma.us
Administrative Assistant- Joanne Lochiatto jlochiatto@maynard.k12.ma.us
Administrative Assistant- Marie Roche mroche@maynard.k12.ma.us
Nurse Amy Jamieson: ajamieson@maynard.k12.ma.us
Nurse Rozie Ross: rross@maynard.k12.ma.us
Greetings!
Fowler is officially up and running, and staff are slowly coming out of summer hibernation and making their way back to the Fowler palace! I have seen several summer smiles around the building and heard some shuffling feet in the hallways as everyone realizes that the grind is about to begin!
Just like our staff, our students and families experience all kinds of emotions as we prepare to return to school. There is excitement, anticipation, nervousness. Perhaps, maybe, even a little disbelief that summer went by quite this quickly.
Very soon, summer routines will be out the door. Earlier bedtimes, morning alarms, backpacks, lunches, homework, and more consistent daily routines will return. Last week, we had the opportunity to meet many of our new Grade 4 students and caregivers. It was wonderful to see the next generation of Fowler families, including some familiar faces returning to Fowler with another child! One piece of advice I shared with our Grade 4 families is something I think is worth sharing with everyone:
This is the week to start getting back into a school routine.
That will look different for every family. It might mean establishing an agreed-upon bedtime, waking up a little earlier each morning, reading for a certain amount of time each night, getting clothes and backpacks ready the night before, or simply beginning to talk about what the school day will look like. None of these things will eliminate every anxious feeling about returning to school, and that is okay, but creating some predictability before the first day can make the transition a little easier.
This advice was actually shared with my wife and me many years ago when our own children were younger. And believe it or not, even with two educators in the house, one of our children absolutely dreaded going to school. There were mornings when getting him through the school doors was a real struggle. So, when families tell us that returning to school can be difficult, I understand that the challenge is real.
When we open our doors on Monday for our kiddos, there will be adults throughout Fowler ready to welcome them. There will be smiles, hellos, directions, reassurance, and plenty of people available to help. Please encourage your student to ask for help when they need it, say hello to someone, reconnect with friends, introduce themselves to someone new, and engage in conversations with their teachers and peers. Sometimes one positive interaction is all it takes to make that first day feel a little more comfortable.
A Quick Note About This Newsletter: This newsletter is divided into two sections:
Part 1: New Information
Everything in this section is new since my last newsletter and includes updates and information families should know as we prepare for the start of school.
Part 2: Previous (OLD) Information
I am keeping previously shared information in the newsletter as well. Yes, this makes the newsletter extremely long, but I want to make sure families who may not have had an opportunity to read an earlier newsletter can still access important information about what has happened and what is coming up at Fowler.
Reminder:
Meet & Greet: This Friday, 1:15–1:45 PM
Finally, we are looking forward to welcoming everyone to our Meet & Greet this Friday from 1:15–1:45 PM. This is an opportunity for students to walk through the front doors of Fowler, wander the halls, reconnect with friends, find their classrooms, and meet their teachers before the first day of school. Families are always welcome to join us! We do ask everyone to remember that the purpose of this event is primarily to support student transition and comfort as we prepare to begin the year.
The Meet & Greet is not intended to be a time for individual conferences or conversations involving personal or confidential student information. If there is something specific you would like to discuss with your student's teacher, please send an email or reach out to arrange a phone call or meeting. Our teachers will be happy to connect with you.
We cannot wait to see everyone Friday, and even more importantly, we cannot wait to open those doors Monday morning and welcome our students back home.
Enjoy the final days of summer, start working on those bedtimes, and get ready for another great year at Fowler!
Best
Keith
This was also emailed home separatly
Dear Fowler Families,
I write today with some great news! As part of our continued effort to streamline and simplify the beginning-of-year registration process—and eliminate many of the forms families have traditionally had to complete by hand—we are excited to introduce a new process this year.
Thanks to the fantastic work of our Technology Department, much of the information we typically collect at the beginning of each school year will now be managed directly through your student’s ASPEN profile.
What Does This Mean for Families?
To begin, your student’s ASPEN profile will contain preloaded information for you to review, confirm, and correct as needed. Depending on the information we currently have on file, some families may need to enter more information than others.
Because this is the first year of implementation, the initial process may take a little more time. The great news is that once your information is entered and verified, it will remain in your student’s profile. In future years, you will simply review the information and make any necessary changes.
Even better, if information changes during the school year—such as an emergency contact—you will be able to update it through ASPEN. Once changes are submitted, our front office administrative team will receive a notification, review and approve the changes, and share relevant information with teachers and administrators when appropriate.
When Does the Process Begin?
The portal will open on Monday, August 17, and will remain available for families to complete and update their information. Please pay extra attention to your emergency contact information to ensure it is up to date and accurate.
Once you have completed and submitted your student’s information, you will shortly thereafter be able to access important beginning-of-year information, including:
Grades 4–5: Classroom teacher assignments
Grades 6–8: Student schedules and homeroom assignments
Completing this process will therefore be an important first step in accessing your student’s information for the upcoming school year.
Need Help?
Attached to this letter is a step-by-step guide that we hope will make the process as simple and straightforward as possible.
As with any new system, we recognize that questions may arise. We are here to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Fowler front office if you need assistance at any point during the process.
We are excited about this change and believe that, after this initial year of implementation, it will make the beginning-of-year process significantly easier for families and staff alike.
Thank you for your patience and partnership as we continue working to make our systems more efficient and family-friendly.
Best,
Keith Kinney- Principal
Fowler School
Here are the instructions, in three languages:
English: Paperwork Instructions English
Spanish: Paperwork Instructions Spanish
Portuguese: Paperwork Instructions Portuguese
If you need help with Aspen access, please reach out to:
Safety is our #1 priority! We all care about our students and staff
Thank you for your patience with our Fowler drop-off and pick-up procedures. We understand this can be frustrating and impact your schedules. All districts experience similar challenges. The beginning of the year can be tough, but routines usually improve after a few days. Below is a summary of the drop-off and pick-up process.
Drop Off:
Enter the school property from the Green Meadow side (Not the High School)
Take a right just before the Fowler School; this road brings you around to the back of Fowler. You will see a sign on a big orange barrel.
Cars entering from the high school side will be required to proceed past the drop-off road and turn around near Green Meadow (this will not be easy).
Wait in line (please do not pass other cars) until the Fowler staff opens the doors at 7:45. At that point, arrival becomes a rolling drop-off.
It is always best to coach your student to be prepared to depart the vehicle (backpack and materials ready to go).
Please follow the directions of the staff on hand at all times, as there may be situations they are attending to that you cannot see from your vehicle.
Pull up as far as you can before letting out to alleviate the congestion on Tiger Drive - this sort of happens in waves, so if you are back at the cones, pull up when those that let out already are leaving.
Please, do not go around other cars in front of you at this time of day. This is extremely dangerous for kiddos getting out of vehicles.
Pick Up
Follow the same procedures when entering the property in the afternoon as in the morning.
Again, please pull up as far as you can to alleviate congestion.
When directed by a staff member, if your child(ren) are in your car and the cars in front of you are still waiting for their student, you may pull wide to the right.
You will then exit through the far opening near the fields. We know that some students come out more quickly than others.
Lastly, we have athletes heading to the fields right after school. We will direct them to wait until 2:35, but again, unpredictability comes into play. Please watch out for students crossing the parking lot.
Thank you for your attention and care in these procedures. Safety is our number one concern. We can all do our part to ensure that Fowler students are well cared for.
The first day of school is exciting, but we also recognize that it can sometimes feel confusing, overwhelming, or emotional for students, caregivers, and even staff. With that in mind, we will follow a special arrival procedure for the first day of school only.Our goal is simple: rather than having students immediately navigate to their classrooms on their own, we want to give everyone an opportunity to gather together, find their teachers, reconnect with friends, and officially begin the new school year as a Fowler community. This procedure will allow our elementary and middle school students to gather separately and hear a brief welcome-back message from Mr. Snyder and me before heading to their classrooms.
First-Day Arrival
Students who choose to eat breakfast should do so first. After breakfast—or upon arrival for students who are not eating breakfast—students should report to the following locations:
Grades 4 & 5 — Auditorium
All elementary students in Grades 4 and 5 will report directly to the Fowler Auditorium.
Students will gather with their grade level and locate their classroom teacher.
Grades 6, 7 & 8 — Gymnasium
Grades 6, 7, and 8- Gym
All middle school students in will report directly to the Fowler Gymnasium.
Students will gather with their grade level in allocated section of the bleachers and locate their homeroom teacher when
Once everyone is settled, Mr. Snyder and I will provide a brief welcome-back message to officially kick off the new school year.
Following our welcome:
- Grades 4 & 5 will walk to their classrooms with their classroom teachers.
- Grades 6–8 will walk to their classrooms with their homeroom teachers.
Students will then have some time to settle in, reconnect, get organized, and adjust to being back in their classrooms.
Our Opening Day Wave
After students have had a short period of time in their classrooms, we will begin one of our favorite Fowler traditions—our Opening Day Wave!
Students will be called by grade level to the back parking lot, where we will gather together to celebrate the official beginning of another school year.
The Opening Day Wave has become an important Fowler tradition. It provides us with an opportunity to start the year together as a school community and creates a wonderful bookend to how we finish the year.We begin the school year with our Opening Wave, and months later, we come back together for our Closing Wave and Grade 8 Clap Out, celebrating everything our students have accomplished and sending our eighth graders off to their next adventure.
A Few Important Reminders
- This arrival procedure is for the first day of school only.
- Students may eat breakfast before reporting to their designated gathering location.
- Grades 4–5: Report to the Auditorium.
- Grades 6–8: Report to the Gymnasium.
- Students do not need to worry about finding their classrooms on their own that morning.
- Teachers and staff will be available throughout the building to help students get where they need to go.
Our hope is that this process makes the first morning a little easier for everyone while giving us the opportunity to begin the year the way we want to—together.
Supply Lists for Next Year (If you want to get a jump start on things)
Grade 4: Supply List LINK for 2026-2027
Grade 5: Supply List LINK for 2026-2027
Grade 6: Supply List LINK for 2026-2027
Grade 7: Supply List LINK for 2026-2027
Grade 8: Supply List LINK for 2026-2027
Band Supply List Link for 2026-2027
2026-2027 UPCOMING DATES
August 28th- Meet and Greet 1:15-1:45
August 31st- School Starts for Students
September 4th and 7th- No School (Labor Day extended weekend)
September 11th- Early Release (11:15)
September 24th- Fowler Back to School Night
Septemerb 25th- In house Chose MHS Presentation (Grade 8 Students)
September 25th- Early Release (11:15)
October 5th- Picture Day
October 9th- Early Release (11:15)
October 12th- No School (Indigenous Peoples' Day)
October 23rd- Early Release (11:15)- Fowler Conferences
November 6th-Early Release (11:15)
November 10th- Annual Veterans' Day Ceremony
November 11th- No School (Veterans' Day)
November 20th-Early Release (11:15)
November 25-27th- No School (Thanksgiving Break)
December 4th-Early Release (11:15)
December 18th- Early Release (11:15)
December 23rd- Early Release (11:15)
December 24th- Jan 1st- No School (Winter Break)
January 15th-Early Release (11:15)
January 18th- No School (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
January 29th-Early Release (11:15)
February 12th- Early Release (11:15)
Feb 15-19th- No School (February Break)
February 26th- Early Release (11:15)
March 12th- Early Release (11:15)
March 22- April 16- ELA MCAS Dates
April 26- May 21st- Math MCAS Dates and Science (Grades 5 and 8)
April 26-June 1st- Civics MCAS Dates (Grade 8 Only)
April 9th- Early Release (11:15)
April 19-23rd- No School (April Break)
May 7th- Early Release (11:15)
May 21st- Early Release (11:15)
June 4th-Early Release (11:15)
May 31st- No School (Memorial Day)
Mrs. Tammy Peralta-Mrs. Peralta recently transferred into Fowler's open ESL teaching position after serving our school community in a variety of roles over many years. Throughout her time at Fowler, she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to helping all students learn and succeed.
After earning her English as a Second Language (ESL) license through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Mrs. Peralta was well prepared to step into this important role. Her dedication to professional growth, combined with her passion for supporting students, makes her an excellent fit to serve our multilingual learners.
Mrs. Peralta builds strong relationships with students and families, creates a welcoming and inclusive learning environment, and is committed to helping students develop the language skills and confidence they need to succeed academically and socially. Fowler is fortunate to have an educator whose commitment to students and continuous learning is evident in all that she does.
Mrs. Katie Krazinski- Mrs. Krazinski recently transitioned to a Grade 4 classroom teaching position after spending several successful years teaching Grade 5 at Fowler School. Prior to joining the Fowler community, Katie taught at Green Meadow School, bringing with her a strong foundation in elementary education.
Katie's passion for teaching and learning is evident in everything she does. She consistently demonstrates a commitment to creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences while fostering meaningful relationships with her students and colleagues. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication to student success make her an invaluable member of our school community.
We are excited to see Katie continue her outstanding work in Grade 4, where her experience, instructional expertise, and unwavering commitment to students will undoubtedly have a positive impact on both learners and the school community as a whole.
Sad to Say Goodbye and Welcome:
Mr. Harrison (BCBA) is leaving his position at Fowler, but he will always remain a part of the Fowler family.
Sometimes in life, opportunities arise that are simply too good to pass up. David has accepted a leadership position in the private sector, and while we are certainly sad to see him go, we are excited for him as he begins this next chapter in his career.
Over the past 10 years, David has made a tremendous impact on the Fowler community. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to supporting our students, families, and staff have helped countless children thrive. His work has been instrumental in building strong systems of support, and his positive influence will be felt for years to come. We are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for Fowler and wish him nothing but continued success.
At the same time, I am pleased to share that Kristen Melham has recently joined the Fowler team as our new Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Kristen comes to Fowler will almost a decade of expericen working at the New England Center for Children. We look very much forward to welcoming Ms. Melham to our community.
Paraprofessionals/ABA:
Please join me in welcoming the newest members of the Fowler team! We are excited to have these talented professionals join our school community and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our students and staff.
Please welcome:
- Kathy Rivers – Paraprofessional/ABA Support Staff
- Lynn Mohney – Paraprofessional/ABA Support Staff
- Erika de Messa- Paraprofessional/ABA Support Staff
We are thrilled to have Kathy and Lynn as part of the Fowler family and look forward to the dedication, compassion, and support they will bring to our students each day. If you see them around the building, please take a moment to introduce yourself and give them a warm Fowler welcome!
Justin Scensy (Lead Custodian)- Justin has been a valued member of the Fowler team for the past several years and has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to our school community. His exceptional work ethic, extensive knowledge of the building, outstanding organizational skills, and natural leadership abilities make him an excellent choice to serve as Fowler's Lead Custodian.
Justin leads by example, takes great pride in his work, and is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that Fowler is a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for students, staff, and families. His positive attitude, reliability, and collaborative approach have earned the respect of his colleagues and make him a trusted leader within our custodial team.
I am confident that Justin will continue to excel in this leadership role and make a lasting positive impact on our school. We are fortunate to have him leading our custodial team and look forward to the great work he will continue to accomplish.
Josh LaFrance(Custodial Team Member)- While Josh is not new to Maynard Public Schools, he is new to the Fowler School community. With the opening of the new Green Meadow School next year and several staff retirements, the district's custodial team underwent a thoughtful restructuring to best support all of our schools.
Josh is a welcome additions to the Fowler team, and we are excited to have him join the Fowler family. We look forward to the experience, dedication, and teamwork he will bring as he helps maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming learning environment for our students and staff.
Frank Despitito (Custodial Team Member)- After an extensive search conducted by our Faciclities Director, Tony Savard, Mr. Despitito has been chosen to complete our evening custodial team. Frank joins Paul Chouinard who has been with us since mid year last year!
Important Resources to Know
1. Adult and Youth Mobile Crisis Intervention: Call 800-640-5432
2. Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat
3. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
4. Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: Call 800-327-5050 or visit helplinema.org
5. OUT Metrowest for LGBTQ Youth: Call 508-875-2122 or visit outmetrowest.org
6. Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth: Call 866-488-7386, text START to 678678, or visit thetrevorproject.org
7. Planned Parenthood: Call 888-258-4448 or visit plannedparenthood.org
8. National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233, text LOVEIS to 22522, or visit thehotline.org
9. Eating Disorder Hotline: Call 800-931-2237, or visit nationaleatingdisorder.org
10. Seize the Awkward: text SEIZE to 741741, or visit seizetheawkward.org
The Maynard News Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting local journalism in Maynard, Massachusetts, and its surrounding communities. Our mission is to provide accessible, accurate, and non-partisan information to residents, business owners, and stakeholders. We believe local journalism is vital to maintaining a strong democracy and fostering civic engagement.