Dear Families,

Welcome back! The opening day of school went very smoothly and it was wonderful to have the hallways full of happy, smiling students (and adults) throughout the building. Many thanks to the wonderful faculty and staff for working hard to ready our school.

A few changes in our schedule this year that I wanted to share with families. Students are going to recess before eating lunch this year which is a new routine for them. There is research that supports students eat more when they have opportunities for exercise before eating. Already in just two days we noticed they were more relaxed while eating and most were finishing their lunch! Students will also have Library Media classes this year integrating technology and library science skills. We are still searching for a library-media teacher to fill this position. Ms. Duggan has been appointed to the Dolbeare School but will be supporting us along with our building substitutes until the position is filled. Our library had new floors, ceilings and was painted over the summer and Deb Duggan worked tirelessly to turn this space into a wonderful, inviting learning space for our students. She has gone above and beyond what is expected of her in her role. It speaks to her devotion to all students in the WPS! Check the library out when you visit school.

We have a new .5 special education teacher joining our faculty this year. Lisa Connell received her Masters degree from Lesley University in Elementary Education and Special Needs. Prior to joining the Greenwood Community Lisa worked as an ELA teacher in the Belmont Public Schools for 12 years. We are very excited to have her joining our school community. Jeanne Attaya, a long time Wakefield resident has joined our school community as a building substitute on Thursdays and Fridays. We are very excited to have her with us as well.

A few safety reminders, parents should not park in the staff parking lot during the morning and afternoon pick up, We have many children walking to and from the playground during this time and ask parents to park on the street behind or in front of the school. We also ask that parents walk students to the crossing guards located at both the front and back of the school. Walking in between cars to cross the street is very dangerous during these busy time. Crossing guards are here to help keep everyone safe. Thank you for your consideration.

Back to School Night will be Tuesday 9/26/17. This is an opportunity for the adults to come and meet the classroom teachers and specialists and to learn about classroom expectations and grade level curriculum. It will begin at 6:30 pm. More information to follow in the coming weeks.

Do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher should you have any questions or concerns as your child starts back to school. You can locate all staff emails (the easiest way for them to communicate) on our school website. Wakefieldpublicschools.org/WPS

Have a great week!

Regards,
Deb Collura