Plymouth Pathways

Plymouth Pathways reflects the many routes our students, staff, and families travel together as part of the PPS community. Just as every learner follows a unique path, our district’s work spans a wide landscape of teaching, collaboration, innovation, and care. This newsletter brings those paths together—highlighting the moments, efforts, and ideas that shape learning in every school. Through each section, we aim to illuminate the journey our district is taking to support student success, strengthen belonging, and keep families connected every step of the way.

Dear Plymouth Public Schools Families,

As a district, we are always trying to find new and varied ways of communicating with our community. While it may sometimes feel as if we are inundating you with updates, news, and notifications, many of our communications are brief, timely, and specific to individual schools.

This year, we have decided to bring back a practice we had in place many years ago, and I’m excited to introduce the release of our first quarterly publication, Plymouth Pathways. Beginning this fall, each edition will bring you stories, updates, and resources that reflect the heart of who we are as a school community.

Our goal with this publication is simple: to keep our families informed and engaged while highlighting the learning, collaboration, and care that defines our schools and programs. This newsletter will provide a window into our classrooms, showcase meaningful initiatives and offer practical tools for supporting learning at home.

Each edition will include four key sections:

Around the District: A closer look at events, initiatives or programs that are making a difference behind the scenes. Our goal is to highlight the thoughtful planning that supports every student’s success.

Learning in Action: A focus on the “why” behind the work, what teachers and students are aiming to achieve, brought to life with classroom moments, student voices, and educator insights.

Building Belonging: Our district is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion of all students and families. This section will spotlight the many ways our schools nurture this commitment and help every learner feel seen, valued, and connected.

For Our Families: Helpful tips and resources, designed to help families support learning at home and strengthen the vital partnership between home and school.

This newsletter is one more way we aim to celebrate our shared accomplishments, communicate openly, and ensure families feel informed and involved in the life of our district. I encourage you to take a few minutes to explore the content within its pages, and I hope you find it both engaging and useful.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Sincerely,

Christopher Campbell, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Plymouth Public Schools

In the world of high school theatre, the tradition of adult direction is being creatively challenged by a new wave of highly engaged, driven students taking complete ownership of their productions. This idea is vividly demonstrated by two recent summer musicals where students did far more than just act—they ran the entire show.

In the summer of 2024, a group of passionate theatre students from Plymouth North High School staged a very successful production of the pop musical sensation, 'SIX'. This past summer, the trend continued with Plymouth South High School's performance of the cult-favorite musical, 'Ride the Cyclone'.

What made both productions remarkable was that every aspect was student-driven. From directing and music directing to lighting, sound design, set building, costumes, and promotion, students seized the reins of the creative and technical process. This wasn't just casual participation; it was a deeply committed effort where students took their learning into their own hands. The bonus to these productions was that they also served as successful fundraisers for their educational travel opportunities.

The production of Ride the Cyclone offers a great example of this dedication. Approached late in the 2024 school year by rising seniors Stella Gizzi and Giada Pennino, the VPA was open to the idea of an entirely student-produced show. The students decided on the high school version of Ride the Cyclone, a show that had gained a following among high school and college students during the pandemic.

The process became a profound learning experience. Stella Gizzi (Director) and Giada Pennino (Assistant Director) not only secured funding but also managed all artistic and technical elements. Their student leadership team—including Ashley Coveney (Choreographer), Liv Turini (Stage Manager), Lily Menezes (Sound Designer), and Layne Lalosh (Set Designer)—was responsible for everything from casting and teaching music to building sets, programming lights, and running marketing.

The students learned firsthand what is truly required to independently mount a theatrical production. They mastered technical skills and, crucially, developed professional communication skills while collaborating with peers and adult volunteers. These student-led efforts are proving that when given the freedom, high school students are more than capable of delivering high-quality, complex theatre. These two student-run productions are a perfect example of the skills that the Visual and Performing Arts Department strives to impart: creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and persistence.

Please join us for one of this years upcoming musical performances. Even though these performances have adults who have helped, I promise they will be great!

• PCIS Presents: ‘Moana Jr’ 1/30/26 7pm at PNHS PAC
• PCIS Presents: ‘Moana Jr’ 1/31/26 2pm at PNHS PAC
• PNHS Presents: ‘The Adams Family’ 3/13/26 7pm at PNHS PAC
• PNHS Presents: ‘The Adams Family’ 3/13/26 7pm at PNHS PAC
• PSMS Presents: ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’ 2/27/26 7pm at PSHS PAC
• PSMS Presents: ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’ 2/28/26 2pm at PSHS PAC
• PSHS Presents: ‘Footloose’ 5/15/26 7pm at PSHS PAC
• PSHS Presents: ‘Footloose’ 5/16/26 7pm at PSHS PAC

Mike Caple, Visual & Performing Arts Coordinator

Third graders across the state spend a lot of time learning about Massachusetts’ history, and Plymouth students are lucky enough to live right where much of this history happened! This year, third graders at all elementary schools welcomed Colonial and Indigenous presenters from Plimoth Patuxet Museums into their classrooms. Students learned about America’s Hometown and the people who helped shape our region. The visitors taught students all about Colonial and Indigenous ways of life. Students were able to explore history with artifacts and activities that made social studies come alive. During the Colonial presentation, students how to properly bow, curtsey, and greet their friends. They heard about the difficult trip on the Mayflower and the hardships of the first winter. They considered why the Pilgrims decided to settle in Plymouth, and why they made the trip across the Atlantic Ocean. Students also got to learn about the Indigenous people’s rich history in what is now Massachusetts. They listened to stories about the Indigenous people’s interactions with the colonists and saw artifacts that showed them how the Indigenous people respected the land. They were even encouraged to touch some animal skins and hunting tools! Students asked insightful questions and actively participated in the discussions with the visitors, and everyone left knowing a little more about Plymouth’s unique history. All sixteen visits were fully sponsored by the Children's Fund at Plimoth Patuxet Museums, through the generosity of the Sheehan Family Foundation.

Kate Fitzgerald, Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator

Each year, 8th grade students from PCIS and PSMS embark on a truly transformative experience, a life-changing cultural exchange with their peers at Collegio San Carlo in Milan, Italy. More than just a trip abroad, this program is designed to cultivate global citizenship and foster real-world learning.

The exchange is designed around a homestay program, which is the key to its significant impact on students. In the fall, Italian students travel to Plymouth, where they live with local host families, attend classes, and experience our community firsthand. This initial visit lays the groundwork for lasting friendships.

Later in the year, our Plymouth students make the reciprocal journey to Milan. They stay with Italian families, explore historic sites, and become immersed in daily life abroad. Because students are not staying in hotels, they form deep, lasting relationships, discovering that while cultures may differ, from daily routines and academic classes to language, shared experiences and friendships remain the same. This model creates confident, independent, and curious young adults. For many, it is the first time leaving the country or even flying on an airplane, marking important milestones.

This year, our exchange is directly connecting our programming goals with the crucial theme of climate change. By focusing on sustainability, our students gain invaluable global perspectives on an issue that affects every nation. Plymouth and Milan students explore local climate initiatives, examine differing approaches to environmental policy, and analyze how two distinct communities, coastal Plymouth and metropolitan Milan, are adapting to a changing world.

By working side-by-side with international peers, our students learn the value of global cooperation. They return to Plymouth with a greater appreciation for language, culture, and community, but also with a deeper understanding of their role in a worldwide effort.

The Plymouth-Milan Exchange is a powerful example of learning in action. It opens the world for our students, moving education beyond the classroom and transforming learning into lived experiences they’ll carry with them for a lifetime.

Alison Riordan, Science Curriculum Coordinator

Students from Plymouth and surrounding communities were invited to attend the first annual FutureWorks conference held at Hotel 1620 on Friday, October 17th. This full day conference is a new extension of the Blue Future Conference held annually and sponsored by the Plymouth Foundation. This year, the Plymouth Foundation was able to team up with the Plymouth Education Foundation to provide a full day interactive conference where students from several school districts in the Commonwealth were able to get tips from a panel of employers and employees about their journey in marine tech, trades, engineering, robotics, and aquaculture; participate in mock job interviews; and speak with college representatives about marine programs. A few Plymouth administrators were invited to attend the Blue Future Conference the day prior and had the honor of hearing from "the science guy" himself, Bill Nye! We all very much appreciate the organization and sponsorship of this event for students and adults alike!

Dr. Kelly Bitinas, Mathematics Coordinator

Ann Hassett is a dedicated educator with a strong commitment to helping students overcome reading challenges and reach their full potential. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Writing from Mount Ida College and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Lesley College, combining a deep love of language with a passion for teaching.

Since 2012, Ann has served as a Title I teacher in the Plymouth Public Schools, where she has supported countless students over the years. Her work focuses on providing targeted reading interventions and fostering a supportive learning environment that empowers struggling readers to grow in confidence and ability.

Ann's dedication to education is deeply rooted in her own family’s story. Her family came to the United States from Puerto Rico, and she carries with her a deep appreciation for the value of education and perseverance. This background informs her understanding of the diverse experiences her students bring to the classroom and strengthens her ability to connect with all children. Congratulations Ann!

Dr. Stacey Rogers, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Operations

The SEPAC's core mission is to provide resources and advocacy for families. It also serves a critical advisory function, meeting regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of the district's programs for students with special needs.

The parent council is focused on building an inclusive community to ensure every parent feels heard, valued, and informed. These monthly meetings are a key way the organization advises the district on matters pertaining to the education and safety of students with disabilities.

For more information on the upcoming meeting or the SEPAC's resources, please visit https://plymouthsepac.org/

Dr. Stacey Rogers, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Operations

Plymouth South High School has earned National Banner recognition from Special Olympics North America for the 2024-25 school year. This prestigious award honors the school's exceptional commitment to inclusion, advocacy, and respect.

The school is one of only 17 in Massachusetts and 217 nationwide to receive this honor, highlighting the incredible dedication of its students, staff, and community in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. Congratulations to the entire Plymouth South High School community on this outstanding achievement! 🥳. The culminating event was held in Danvers where Plymouth Educators presented at the Special Olympics Conference.

Dr. Stacey Rogers, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Operations

At a time when attention spans are short and screentime is at its highest, building strong reading habits and instilling a love of reading is a crucial part of ensuring that our students not only CAN read but choose to do so. Time spent reading improves reading fluency, stamina, vocabulary, and comprehension, and builds valuable background knowledge. And books allow us to enter different worlds and meet new people, all without leaving our homes. Read on for specific ways to support your child, no matter their age!

Model Reading For Pleasure

As with any activity, children learn from watching those around them. Model good literacy behavior by reading regularly yourself. Talk about what you are reading and ask them about what they are reading. Have a lot of age-appropriate and grade-level reading material around your home. Create a reading “nook” in the house, or let them create one in their bedroom. Even if it is only a few times a week, designate a “reading time” when everyone reads and then discusses what they read. And if you use a different language at home, speak and read to your child in that language. This can help grow their vocabulary and increase their curiosity and readiness to learn at school. Research shows that students who develop strong literacy skills in their native language carry over those strong skills, especially in the area of comprehension.

Building Skills

For younger children, rhyming books, poems, and songs can build phonological awareness, or the ability to recognize and manipulate the spoken parts of sentences and words. Stop periodically in a rhyming book to see if they can predict what word might come next. Clap out the syllables in their name or in words they use daily. Help them to learn the alphabet through songs and familiar print, and make words with magnetic letters. In addition to teaching them the letter names, you can teach them some of the basic letter sounds as well, as these are what they will use to sound out or decode words. Finally, point out environmental print, like road signs, food packaging, and restaurant and store names, or have them look for things that start with a certain letter. Have older children keep a journal, help with recipes, read game instructions, generate shopping lists, and write thank-you notes. Build vocabulary by breaking out those classic board games, like Scrabble, Boggle, or newer ones like Bananagrams, Apples to Apples, and Balderdash. Above all, make it fun!

Create a Literacy-Rich Environment and Offer Choice

Just like adults, young and older children and teens enjoy certain types of reading genres more than others. Let them select books of interest and get recommendations from teachers and friends. And yes, this includes graphic novels, which are quickly becoming one of the most popular genres for all ages. For a more reluctant reader, consider finding a series that they may like to encourage “the next book,” or informational texts about topics of interest (hobbies, sports, music, science, etc.). For older students, subscriptions to magazines, “how-to” books, or even podcasts can build vocabulary and expand their background knowledge. To build a reading collection, ask friends and family to consider giving books as gifts for birthdays and holidays. Or ask them to donate books to you that their own children have outgrown. Another great way to keep up with ever-changing reading habits is to visit the library! Plymouth has two branches in town, with programs for all ages. Getting a library card is easy and free, and it also provides access to ebooks and library privileges within a larger network.

Plymouth Public Library Website: https://plymouthpubliclibrary.org/

Reading Aloud… Not Just for the Little Ones

Many routines are built in those early years when families read together, often before bedtime. This is a perfect time to show students how to hold a book, turn the pages, make predictions, use “voices,” and take turns “reading” the story. After reading, have a conversation about what happened, asking your child to sum it up and relate the story to what he/she already knows or has experienced. For informational books, see what facts they find interesting, and generate new questions to research. And remember…read-alouds don’t have to end when students can read themselves. This 2011 CBS story beautifully demonstrates the power of read-alouds and the incredible bonds they can build!

Feather Reads to Daughter Every Night until College: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkqItDSfHTM

For more ideas for how to support literacy at home, feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher. And keep on reading!

Dr. Lisa White, ELA Coordinator & Director of Curriculum & Instruction

We hope this first edition of our quarterly curriculum newsletter, Plymouth Pathways, provided valuable insights into the exciting learning happening in our classrooms. As the holiday season approaches, we are immensely grateful for your support in your child's education. We wish all of our Plymouth Public Schools families a safe, restful, and happy Thanksgiving break!

November 26 - November 28: No School - Thanksgiving Break

November 26: North vs. South Football @ Fenway Park - 4:00 PM

December 1: School Committee Meeting

December 3: 1/2 Day for Grades K-8 (Parent Conferences)

December 10: 1/2 Day for Grades K-8 (Parent Conferences)

December 15: School Committee Meeting

December 22 - January 2: No School - Holiday Recess