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Bird and Johnson Middle Schools' Grade 8 Leaders were recognized for their help with the Grade 6 Sneak Peek. Volunteering their time to acclimate the incoming students to their new school, these leaders provided tours, helped with lockers and schedules, answered questions and shared their knowledge about middle school. We thank them for creating a welcoming climate.

Favor N., Walpole High School representative to the School Committee provided the following report:

• Students have made a successful transition from summer break, especially the Freshmen who had the opportunity attend Freshman Orientation prior to the start of the school.
• Back to School Night for families will be held next Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
• Yesterday, during the intervention period, students discussed Summer Reading.
• The Seniors were able to enjoy a sunrise together last Friday and are ready to conquer their last year of high school.
• Fall sports are in full swing.
• Clubs have also begun and many had their first meetings this week including Photography Club, Spanish Club, Community Service Club, Best Buddies, WHS UNICEF Club, Speech and Debate Club, and Art Club.
• Overall, the school year is moving smoothly and great things are on the horizon.

1. Opening of School Reports - Each building Principal gave a brief presentation to the School Committee relative to the successful opening of schools and planned upcoming school events. Each Principal indicated their gratitude to all staff, teachers, nurses, custodians, Department of Public Works, the Transportation Coordinator and secretaries.

2. Capital Update - Dr. Gough and Mr. Friscia gave the School Committee details regarding the School Department Capital requests.

3. Fales, Leach, Rogers & Kunde Scholarship - The Fales, Leach, Rogers & Kunde Scholarship application will be available on October 1, 2023 through Tuesday, October 31, 2023. To be eligible, candidates must be a graduate from Walpole High School and currently attending a college or university. This application will be found on the District website beginning on October 1st or will be available at the Superintendent’s Office.

• Dr. Gough is excited to welcome our students back into classrooms. Thank you to our incredible staff for their hard work preparing for a successful opening. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Gough enjoyed their early visits to schools to connect with our students, families, and staff.

• Please make sure to check your individual school site for upcoming events. As a reminder, September 22nd is an early release day.

• Walk with the Supers is scheduled Sept. 22nd from 8:30-9:45 a.m. at WHS Track. This is designed to promote community engagement and wellness. Feel free to come for a portion or stay the entire time to walk and talk with Dr. Gough and Dr. Hahn This is open to all community members.

• Dr. Gough provided information regarding the start of a new WHS Superintendent's Student Cabinet, which is a unique opportunity for Walpole High School students to share feedback, experiences, and perspectives on a variety of issues affecting students, schools, and the Walpole community, with Superintendent Gough. Application information will be sent to all WHS students.

Middle School Building Project: The School Committee toured the site on Thursday and were happy to see the progress of the building. A project timeline and three-week look ahead schedule can be located on the middle school webpage. The community is encouraged to visit the webpage and reach out to the Middle School Project team with any questions or comments via email at middleschoolproject@walpole.k12.ma.us.

High School Project: Kristen Syrek indicated she will be providing an update to the High School renovation project at the next School Committee Meeting.