Welcome Back to School Newsletter

At Webster Public Schools, we believe every child can learn, improve, and shine — and that’s why this year we will be focusing on a Growth Mindset.

What’s a Growth Mindset?
It’s the idea that with effort, practice, and the right strategies, we can all get better at anything — whether it’s reading, math, music, or sports. Mistakes aren’t failures… They're stepping stones to learning!

What We’re Doing:
This school year, all our teachers and staff will be taking special training on Growth Mindset.

They’ll learn new ways to:

• Encourage students to keep going, even when things feel tough

• Celebrate effort as much as results

• Help kids set exciting goals and work toward them step-by-step
  
  

Our goal is to create classrooms where every child feels confident to try, learn, and grow.

How You Can Help at Home:

• Praise your child for effort, not just grades

• Remind them: “You can’t do it yet — but you will!”

• Share stories about times you had to work hard to learn something and how you overcame obstacles

Together, we can help every student see that with effort, perseverance, and a positive attitude — the sky’s the limit!

Exciting Updates on Our Science Curriculum Review

Looking Ahead for Science Learning in Grades 5–8
This past spring, we launched a Curriculum Review Committee to take a close look at our science curriculum for students in grades 5–8.

Our goal? To ensure our students have the very best, most engaging science learning experiences possible.

Who’s on the Committee?
The team is made up of dedicated teachers from both our middle school and elementary schools. These educators bring a wealth of classroom experience and a passion for high-quality instruction.

How the Process Works

• The committee met every month to carefully review High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM).

• All materials were evaluated using the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) standards, expectations, and official rubrics.

• After much discussion and review, the team narrowed the choices down to two science programs.
  
  

What’s Next?
During the Fall semester of the 2025–2026 school year, both programs will be piloted in classrooms. This means teachers and students will get hands-on experience with each curriculum before the district makes a final decision.

We know that choosing the right curriculum is a big decision — and we’re taking the time to do it right. By following DESE’s detailed process and guidelines, we’re confident that our final choice will best support our students’ curiosity, critical thinking, and love for science.

Why This Matters for Families
A strong science curriculum helps prepare students not just for tests, but for the real world — where problem-solving, inquiry, and innovation are key. We’re excited to give our students the tools and inspiration they need to explore, discover, and grow.

If you are interested in learning more about the process or pilot materials, please contact Deb Rivera, Director of Curriculum and Instruction.

Instructional Priority for 2025–2026: Engaging Minds Through Conversation and Inquiry

Teaching strategies are important because they are the methods and approaches teachers use to help students learn effectively—and the choice of strategy can make the difference between passive listening and active, meaningful learning.

This school year, our district’s instructional priority will focus on three powerful strategies that engage and support deeper learning for all students:

• Questioning Strategies – Crafting purposeful questions that spark curiosity, promote critical thinking, and encourage students to explain their reasoning.

• Academic Discourse – Creating opportunities for students to engage in rich, meaningful conversations with peers, using academic language to share ideas, debate perspectives, and build understanding together.

• Checking for Understanding – Using a variety of quick, intentional techniques to ensure students are grasping concepts in real time and adjusting instruction to meet their needs.

By emphasizing these strategies across all classrooms, we aim to foster active learning environments where students are not only absorbing information but also thinking deeply, communicating effectively, and applying their knowledge.

Families can support this work at home by asking open-ended questions about what students are learning and encouraging them to explain their thinking.

Together, we can inspire learners to think, talk, and grow—every single day!

For any questions related to curriculum or instructional practices, please reach out to Debbie Rivera, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at drivera@webster-schools.org.

We are excited to welcome you to what promises to be a year full of learning, growth, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re new to our district or returning for another year, we’re honored to partner with you in supporting the success of every student.

At the heart of our mission in Student Support Services is the commitment to equity, inclusion, and access. Our goal is to ensure every student receives the support they need to thrive in a learning environment where they feel valued and understood.

We are proud to introduce most of our incredible team of dedicated professionals, who bring expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving our students and families. This year, our team includes:

• Special Education Teachers – supporting students with moderate to severe needs through individualized instruction and care.
  

• Dually Certified Preschool Teachers – fostering a strong foundation for our youngest learners through inclusive and developmentally appropriate teaching.
  

• Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPAs)– advancing student communication skills to support learning and social development.
  

• School Psychologists – conducting cognitive and psychoeducational evaluations to help guide individualized plans for student success.
  

• Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) – promoting health, wellness, and safety across all school settings.
  

• Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) – helping students develop the functional skills necessary for school and daily life.

• Physical Therapists (PTs) and Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) – supporting students in developing mobility, strength, and physical independence for full participation in school activities.

• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) – designing and implementing behavioral supports grounded in applied behavior analysis.
  

• Applied Behavior Assistants and Paraprofessionals – providing consistent, hands-on support to ensure student engagement, access, and a strong sense of belonging.
  

• Educational Team Leaders (ETLs) – guiding families through the IEP process with care and clarity, ensuring collaboration and transparency every step of the way.
  
  

Together, this incredible team works collaboratively to build inclusive school communities where all students are supported, challenged, and celebrated.

We are looking forward to a fantastic year and are committed to strong family partnerships. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions, ideas, or ways we can better support your student.

Sincerely,

Shari Haire
Director of Student Support Services

Carol Cohen
Assistant Director of Student Support Services – Equity and Inclusion

Car Riders: Guidelines for Drop-Off & Pick-Up

As we kick off another exciting school year, we want to ensure that every student arrives safely and smoothly each morning. For families driving students to school, please take a moment to review these important campus guidelines for drop-off and pick-up:

Park Avenue

Drop-Off/Pick-Up Location

1. All student drop-offs for K – 4 takes place at the back of the elementary school.

2. This designated area is supervised by staff and designed for safe, efficient unloading.

3. For pick-up, you will need to provide your assigned dismissal number.

4. PK drops off in the front of the school (parking in the road preferably or in the bus loop but using caution near the buses). A communication about drop off will be sent from the Principal prior to the start of school for PK with more information about drop off.

Traffic Flow & Queueing

To keep traffic moving and ensure safety for all:

• The drop-off line queues on Ray Street, approaching from Park Avenue.

• Do not attempt to turn left into the drop-off zone from Ray Street. This maneuver is prohibited and disrupts traffic flow, creating unsafe conditions for students and other drivers.

Instead, please follow the designated route:

1. Enter Ray Street from Park Avenue.

2. Stay in the right lane and follow signage and staff directions.

3. Proceed patiently through the queue until you reach the drop-off zone.

Webster Middle School/Bartlett High School Campus

Entering the Campus

• From Lake Parkway: Turn right into the campus entrance at the Bartlett “B”.

• From Poland Street: Turn left into the campus at the location marked by the Bartlett “B”.

Once on campus, all vehicles must follow the one-way traffic pattern. Please do not attempt to reverse direction or exit against the flow.

Car Rider Drop-Off/Pick-Up Instructions

High School Students

• Stay in the left lane upon entering campus.

• Proceed past the both Modular Classrooms and the entrance to the bus loop.

• Drop students off at the curb in the designated area after the bus loop entrance making sure to pull forward as much as possible to allow for several cars to let students out.

• Do not stop or unload in the bus loop itself.

Do not pull into the parking lot by the construction trailers or the student/staff parking lot by the tennis courts.

Middle School Students

• Stay in the right lane upon entering campus and continue past the High School

• Follow posted signs and staff directions to proceed to the back of the Middle School.

• Drop students off in the designated area at the rear of the building.

Do not drop off on Poland Street at the campus exit as it impedes traffic flow and is a hazard to students who walk.

The same procedure should be followed for pick-up in the afternoon. For WMS, do not start queuing behind the building until 1:45 pm

Safety Reminders

Stay in your vehicle during drop-off. Staff will assist students as needed.

Ensure your child is ready to exit quickly—backpacks packed, goodbyes said.

Never pass other vehicles in the queue unless directed by staff.

Be mindful of pedestrians—especially near crosswalks—and avoid blocking crossing paths.

Always follow crossing guard instructions when on the campus. Crossing guards monitor traffic and wait for safe gaps before allowing students to cross. Your patience helps keep walkers safe.

Do not wave students across traffic or attempt to direct movement yourself. Let trained staff and crossing guards manage pedestrian flow to prevent confusion and ensure safety.

Why These Rules Matter

These guidelines aren’t just about convenience—they’re about keeping our children safe. By following the designated route and respecting traffic rules, you help create a calm, predictable environment that protects students and keeps the morning running smoothly for everyone.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to safety. Let’s make every morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up safe and positive!

For many students, the school bus is the first and last part of their school day. It’s not just a ride—it’s an extension of the school environment, where safety, respect, and responsibility matter just as much as they do in the classroom. Whether your child is a first-time rider or a seasoned commuter, understanding and following bus behavior expectations helps ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.

Why Bus Behavior Matters

School buses are designed to be safe, but that safety depends on students following rules and respecting others. Drivers must focus on the road, and distractions or unsafe behavior can put everyone at risk. Good bus behavior also sets the tone for the day—starting with kindness and ending with responsibility.

Expectations for Students

Before Boarding

• Arrive at the bus stop 5–10 minutes early.

• Wait calmly and respectfully—no pushing, running, or roughhousing.

• Stay off the road and wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before approaching.

• Have your bus pass visible and ready to show—this is a requirement and helps drivers quickly confirm ridership and keeps boarding smooth.

Getting On and Off

• Board in a single line without crowding or pushing.

• Use the handrail and watch your step.

• Follow the driver’s instructions and cross the street only when signaled to do so.

• For Park Avenue students, an adult must be present at the bus stop for afternoon drop-off—this ensures a safe handoff and prevents students from being left unattended.

While Riding

• Stay seated at all times, facing forward.

• Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself.

• Use quiet voices—no yelling, shouting, or loud music.

• No eating or drinking while on the bus.

• Respect the driver and fellow passengers with polite language and behavior.

• Keep the aisle clear of backpacks and legs.

Respect for the Bus

• Treat the bus with care—no writing on seats, damaging equipment, or littering.

• Report any damage or safety concerns to the driver or school staff.

Consequences for Unsafe Behavior

Unsafe or disrespectful behavior may result in warnings, assigned seats, parent contact, or temporary suspension from bus privileges. These rules aren’t meant to punish—they’re in place to protect every rider and ensure the bus remains a safe space.

Partnering with Families

Parents and guardians play a key role in reinforcing these expectations. Talk with your child about the importance of bus safety, and encourage them to treat the bus as they would any classroom—with respect, responsibility, and kindness.

As students transition from Park Avenue Elementary to Webster Middle School, many begin walking to school independently for the first time—or continue walking with greater responsibility. Whether your child is new to walking or already familiar with the routine, this is a timely reminder to reinforce safe habits and build confidence as they adjust to new schedules and expectations.

Under Massachusetts General Law, school districts are required to provide bus transportation for students who live more than 2 miles from their assigned school. However, individual districts may choose to offer transportation beyond these minimum requirements. In our district, we’ve extended bus eligibility to bus all students in Park Avenue regardless of distance. Additionally, we have elected to allow middle and high school students who live 1.5 miles or more from school to be transported by bus. Families living closer than 1.5 miles need to plan for alternative transportation, which often includes walking.

The following tips are designed to help all students walk safely and responsibly—whether they’re heading to middle school, high school, or simply walking more often:

Stay Alert and Aware

• No distractions: Keep phones, games, and headphones tucked away while walking.

• Be observant: Watch for cars, bikes, and other pedestrians at all times.

Know Your Route

• Stick to safe paths: Use sidewalks, crosswalks, and well-lit streets.

• Practice together: Walk the route with your child a few times to build confidence.

Crossing Streets Safely

• Stop, look, and listen: Look left, right, then left again before crossing.

• Use crosswalks and signals: Only cross at designated areas and wait for the walk signal.

Follow Crossing Guard Instructions

• Respect their authority: Crossing guards are there to keep kids safe—always listen to them.

• Wait for their signal: Never cross until the guard clearly signals it's safe, even if the light says "walk."

• Make eye contact: Look at the guard and follow their hand signals or verbal instructions.

• Be patient and polite: Don’t rush or ignore the guard, even if you're running late.

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Dress for Safety & Weather

• Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing so drivers can see your child clearly.

• Dress appropriately: Use layers for cold weather, rain gear for wet days, and sun protection when it’s hot.

• Wear proper shoes: Closed-toe, comfortable shoes help prevent slips and trips.

Avoid Unsafe Areas

• No shortcuts: Stay away from alleys, vacant lots, or unfamiliar paths.

• Stranger safety: Never talk to or accept rides from people you don’t know.

Emergency Preparedness

• Know key contacts: Make sure your child memorizes your phone number and address.

• Have a plan: If something feels wrong, they should go to a trusted adult or return home immediately.

We’re excited to share the latest developments in the ongoing renovation of BHS. The multi-phase construction project is moving forward steadily, with major milestones already achieved and more on the horizon.

Construction Timeline & Progress

The renovation is being carried out in four distinct phases:

1 - C Wing - Jan 2024 – Apr 2025 - ✅ Complete