The Common
June 2, 2023
Superintendent Update
Dear Nashoba Community,
A few weeks ago I notified the community that we are searching for a Director of Pupil Personnel Services due to the departure of current director Joan DeAngelis. We are currently searching for an Interim PPS Director for the 2023-2024 school year and I will make a recommendation for appointment to the School Committee prior to the beginning of the new school year.
In the meantime, I want to begin the planning process for finding our permanent PPS Director by hosting office hours for parents in our community. I am looking for parents to engage with me about the future of special education in Nashoba.I will be hosting office hours multiple times this summer and you are all invited to join. Office hours will be held this summer on July 19th, July 26th and August 2nd from 9:00-10:00 a.m. The August 2nd meeting will be remote. I will add additional office hours if the sessions offered fill up. Please click on the link below to register.
Superintendent Office Hours: Special Education
I look forward to engaging with you in this work. I wish you all a wonderful weekend.
Peace,
Kirk Downing
(He/Him)
“Be your best self. Pave your path. Impact the world.”
News from the Department of Teaching and Learning
8th Graders Travel to our Nation's Capital
Our three middle schools are deep in the Washington, D.C., experience. What has become an annual and highly anticipated journey, the Washington, D.C. trip, recently concluded for Florence Sawyer School students, is underway for our Luther Burbank students, and ready to launch for our Hale Middle School students next week. This trip is an unforgettable experience for our students as they explore our nation's capital's rich history and vibrant culture.
During the trip, our students have the opportunity to visit iconic sites and numerous monuments and memorials that hold significant historical and cultural importance. They also have the privilege of exploring the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, paying their respects to the brave men and women who have served our country.
Our students also visit the Smithsonian Institution, which offers various museums and exhibits, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History. These immersive experiences bring history to life, allowing our students to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the events and individuals who have shaped our nation. The impact of this trip extends far beyond the classroom as well. By visiting Washington, D.C., we hope that our students gain a deeper understanding and connection to our nation's history and responsibilities of citizenship.
The trip also fosters personal growth and lifelong memories. The trip serves as both a celebration and a culmination of our students' K-8 experience - perfect timing for our rising high schoolers!
The impact of this trip is profound, and we are grateful for our community's support in making the journey possible - a journey made on many levels.
Nashoba Notable Award! Thank a Nashoba Employee!
Celebrating everyday greatness! Is there a Nashoba teacher or staff member out there who you think deserves some special recognition? Send a Nashoba Notable Award their way! Fill out the form below and thank a Nashoba employee today!
Nashoba Notable Awards thank Nashoba employees for supporting students, families, and their school communities in all ways great and small.
Employees will receive a certificate that includes a brief explanation from the nominator of why they are Nashoba Notable. This form is open to everyone. Students, families, staff and community members can send a Nashoba Notable Award to any Nashoba employee.
There is no limit to the number of Nashoba Notable Awards someone may receive. Thank a Nashoba employee today!
News from the Health, Wellness and Safety Department
Exciting News from Health Services. We have just purchased 14 LifeVac Devices for our schools.
How does LifeVac work?
LifeVac is a simple airway clearance device that can be used on adults and children, requires only seconds to use, and can be administered by anyone in a choking emergency. The patented design utilizes non-invasive suction and a one-way valve system to remove food, phlegm, or a foreign object that is lodged in a person’s throat or windpipe, causing an airway obstruction. To operate this life saving device, it is as easy as placing the mask over the victim’s nose and mouth, pushing down on the LifeVac handle, and pulling it back up rapidly.
What does this mean for Nashoba?
Each school will have a LifeVac device installed in each cafeteria and in each health office. Training will begin in August with our custodial, cafeteria, extended learning and nursing staff. Training will be provided to all staff in September.
To learn more about LifeVac: LifeVAC Training Video
Together, we inspire and challenge all learners to reach their unique potential and become active contributors to their community.