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Tow n of WATERTOWN

2009 Annua l Report Town of Watertown 2009 Annual Report

Story of the Watertown Seal

On the Watertown seal is a picture of an English Colonist and an Indian exchanging, as peace tokens, bread for fish. Capt. Roger Clap, who landed at Nantusket Point in 1630, and rowed up Charles River to Gerry’s Landing with the first party of Watertown Colonists, records the following story of the trip:

“We went up Charles River until the river grew narrow and shallow, and there we landed our goods with much labor and toil, the bank being steep and night coming on. “We were informed that there were hard by us three hundred Indians. One Englishman that could speak the Indian language (an old Planter) went to them and advised them not to come near us in the night; and they harkened to his counsels, and came not, I myself was one of the sentinels that first night. Our Captain was a Low Country soldier, one Mr. Southcot, a brave soldier. “In the morning some of the Indians came and stood at a distance off, looking at us, but came not near us; but when they had been a while in view, some of them came and held out a great Bass toward us; so we sent a man with a Bisket, and changed the Cake for a Bass. Afterwards they supplied us with Bass, exchanging a Bass for a Bisket Cake, and were very friendly to us. “O dear children! Forget not what care God had over his dear servants, to watch over and protect us in our weak beginnings. Capt. Squeb turned ashore us and our goods, like a mercyless man, but God, ever our mercyful God, took pity on us; so that we were supplied, first with a boat, and them caused may Indians (some hundreds) to be ruled by the advice of one man not to come near us. Alas, had they come, how soon might they have destroyed us! I think we were not above ten in number. But God caused the Indians to help us with fish at very cheap rates.”

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Table of Contents

Town Officials and Committees Elected Officials ...... 4 Boards and Commissions ...... 5 Department Heads ...... 7 Reports of the Town Manager and Town Council Town Council ...... 8 Town Manager ...... 10 Report of Town Finances Board of Assessors ...... 12 Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk ...... 13 Town Auditor ...... 14 Reports of the Offices of Town Administration Personnel Department ...... 41 Town Clerk and Election ...... 42 Information Technology Department ...... 44 Town Attorney ...... 45 Purchasing Department ...... 46 Health Department ...... 47 Council on Aging ...... 52 Recreation Department ...... 54 Watertown Free Public Library ...... 57 Veterans’ Services ...... 62 John A. Ryan Skating Arena ...... 64

Department of Public Works ...... 66 Reports of the Departments of Public Safety Police ...... 68 Fire ...... 75 Emergency Management ...... 78

Report of the Department of Community Development and Planning . . .80

Report of the Department of Public Schools ...... 86

Voting Results ...... 102

3 Watertown Elected Officials

Town Council President & Member of the School Committee School Committee Clyde L. Younger, 188 Acton Street ...... 617-923-0592 Eileen Hsu-Balzer, 897 Belmont Street ...... 617-484-8077 Council at Large Christopher Beach, 172 Standish Road...... 617-923-0755 Stephen Corbett, 14 Irving Park ...... 617-926-7872 Anthony P. Paolillo, 96 Robbins Road...... 617-924-2788 Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney, 98 Westminster Avenue ....617-923-0778 Laurie J. Mastrangelo McManus, 17 Channing Road ...... 617-926-3187 Susan G. Falkoff, 19 Oliver Street ...... 617-924-5723 David R. Leon, 31 Standish Road ...... 617-923-4781 Mark Sideris, 30 Union Street...... 617-924-2699 John H. Portz, 24 Chapman Street ...... 617-924-1899 District A Councillor Library Trustee Angeline B. Kounelis, 55 Keenan Street #1 ...... 617-926-2352 Katherine H. Button, 48 Edward Road ...... 617-923-1840 Michael J. Hanlon, Jr., 231 Coolidge Avenue #408 ...... 617-924-7613 District B Councillor Timothy J. Tracy, 92 Marshall Street * ...... 617-924-2770 Jonathan Hecht, 159 Russell Avenue...... 617-924-1490 Ann F. Bloom, 43A Parker Street ** ...... 617-924-0360 District C Councillor Anna Kuwabara, 100 School Street #3 ...... 617-972-6434 Vincent J. Piccirilli, 203 Orchard Street ...... 617-924-0665 Gracemarie V. LeBlanc, 76 Emerson Road ...... 617-924-9322 District D Councillor Raya Stern, 207 Lexington Street ...... 617-926-3609 John J. Lawn, Jr., 20 Pilgrim Road ...... 617-923-2075 * Elected November 2009 (to fill an unexpired term). ** Resigned March 2009.

4 Boards and Commissions

Board of Health Election Commissioners Traffic Commission Cynthia N. Brooks David W. Downes John Bartley, Sr., Secretary Dr. John H. Straus Curtis A. Whitney John M. Airasian Barbara D. Beck, Ph.D. B. Bonnie Baranowski Chief Edward P. Deveau, Chair Louis L. Fabrizio Gerald S. Mee, Jr., Superintendent Conservation Commission Chief Mario A. Orangio Charles Bering Board of Assessors George Pizzuto, Wire Inspector Patrick Fairbairn Joseph B. Darby III Leo G. Martin Richard V. Moynihan Cable Access Corporation Marylouise Pallotta McDermott Daniel A. Loughlin Allie Altman Nancy Hammett Chairman, Town Assessor Steven W. Aylward Maria P. Rose Gerry Field Louis Taverna Council on Aging Christopher Beach Dorothy Fleming Steven L. Singer Licensing Board Mary T. Keenan John M. Airasian Donna B. Doucette, Chair Will Twombly Robert D. Bejoian Robert J. Whitney Patricia Gold Robert Kaprielian George Newman Christopher Hursh Paul Michael Noftsker Alternate Member Barbara Zenn Rediker Sandra Hoffman Betty Finnell Historical Commission Marie A. Morello Elisabeth H. Loukas Planning Board Jane Stadolnik Susan Steele Jeffrey W. Brown Donald S. Berg John B. Hawes Cultural Council Thomas Melone Linda Tuttle-Barletta Rena Baskin J.B. Jones G. Jack Zollo Shaunna Harrington Marilynne Roach Peter J. Abair Sandy Jaffe David J. Russo, Jr. Rebecca Low Board of Appeals Chris Viklund Commission on Disability Carlos Fernandez David Sprogis Councillor Marilyn Devaney Melissa Santucci Jennifer Downing George Donahue Harry J. Vlachos Laurie Coiley-Massing Carol Menton Deborah Elliott Lisa Cohen Bob Hall Stuart Bailey Lisa Feltner Kim Charlson Alternate Member Marcia Ciro Fred Isaacs Richard M. Moynihan Ryan McKittrick Alex Liazos Frances Forman Anne Doughty Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee Bradford Parsons Watertown Housing Authority Environment and Energy Efficiency Peter Brooks E. Joyce Munger, Chair Committee Janet Jameson Allen Gallagher Howard Turkenkopf Maria Saiz Thomas Beggan Lisa Alexander Sheila Fay John O’Leary Raeleen Parsons Rachel Gould David Dalla Costa Meredith Fields Steven Engler William Kahn Fred Hewett Robert Brandt Smullyan Mari Ryan Brian Hebeisen Ken Mirvis Lauri Murphy

5 Historic District Commission Watertown Housing Partnership Victoria Carter James Barwell Amleto “Mel” Martocchia Victoria J. Carter John Hecker Senior Planner, Community Development Harvey Steiner and Planning Linda Sternberg David Leon Robert Childs Alex Liazos Judge Paul C. Menton Watertown Recycling Advisory Thomas Wade Committee Fred Reynolds Carol Bates Steven Magoon Arturo DeLuca Alice Wadden Stormwater Advisory Committee Terese Hammerle Maria P. Rose Ernesta Kraczkiewicz Jonathan Bloch Shutsu Chai

6 Department Heads

Daniel F. Brothers, Manager Dr. Ann Koufman-Frederick, Mario A. Orangio, Fire Chief John A. Ryan Skating Arena Superintendent of Schools Fire Department 1 Paramount Place Started July 2009 99 Main Street Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown Public Schools Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6469 Office 30 Common Street Work: (617) 972-6511 (617) 972-6468 Arena Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Fax: (617) 972-6575 Fax: (617) 972-6498 Work: (617) 926-7700 Fax: (617) 926-9759 Raeleen Parsons, Purchasing Agent Leone E. Cole, Library Director Administration Building Watertown Free Public Library Daniel A. Loughlin, Town Assessor 149 Main Street 123 Main Street Administration Building Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 149 Main Street Work: (617) 972-6414 Work: (617) 972-6434 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Fax: (617) 926-4375 Work: (617) 972-6410 Fax: (617) 972-6404 Gayle M. Shattuck, Personnel Director Edward P. Deveau, Police Chief Administration Building Police Department Steven Magoon, Director, Community 149 Main Street 34 Cross Street Development and Planning Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Administration Building Work: (617) 972-6443 Work: (617) 972-6533 149 Main Street Fax: (617) 972-6404 Fax: (617) 972-6409 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6417 Thomas J. Sullivan, Robert Erickson, Veterans Agent Fax: (617) 972-6484 Recreation Department Director Administration Building May 14, 1973 – Retired November 7, 2009 149 Main Street Joseph J. Mahoney, Data Processing Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Manager Peter Centola, Work: (617) 972-6416 Administration Building Recreation Department Director Fax: (617) 972-6403 149 Main Street Started December 14, 2009 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Administration Building John E. Flynn, Town Clerk Work: (617) 972-6463 149 Main Street Administration Building Fax: (617) 972-6403 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 149 Main Street Work: (617) 972-6494 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Phyllis L. Marshall, Fax: (617) 972-6403 Work: (617) 972-6486 Treasurer/Collector Fax: (617) 972-6403 Administration Building Thomas J. Tracy, Town Auditor 149 Main Street Administration Building Caryl L. Fox, Director, Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 149 Main Street Council on Aging Work: (617) 972-6452 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Senior Center Fax: (617) 972-6403 Work: (617) 972-6460 30 Common Street Fax: (617) 972-6404 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Gerald S. Mee, Jr., Work: (617) 972-6490 Superintendent of Public Works Steven J. Ward, Health Director Fax: (617) 972-6493 Department of Public Works Administration Building 124 Orchard Street 149 Main Street Dr. Steven A. Hiersche, Ed.D., Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Superintendent of Schools Work: (617) 972-6421 Work: (617) 972-6445 Left for Framingham July 2009 Fax: (617) 972-6402 Fax: (617) 972-6403

7 Town Council

Report of the Town Council Council Membership Highlights of 2009 – Year 2009 The Town Council voted the following mat- A Report to the Residents District Councillors: ters in order to effectuate the most optimal of Watertown District A Councillor Angeline B. Kounelis level of services provided to the citizens of District B Councillor Jonathan Hecht Watertown: The nine members of the Town Council of District C Councillor Vincent J. Piccirilli, Jr. the City known as the Town of Watertown District D Councillor John J. Lawn, Jr. • March 10, 2009: the Town Council voted are elected biennially, in odd-numbered to authorize the issuance of refunding years, to serve as the legislative branch of Councillors at Large: bonds not to exceed $12,500,000 in the Town’s government. The elected mem- Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney order to reduce interest costs. bers consist of four (4) District Councillors, Susan G. Falkoff • April 14, 2009: the Town Council four (4) Councillors at Large and a Town Stephen Corbett voted to adopt a resolution to create a Council President who is elected by the at- Mark Sideris Stormwater Advisory Committee to act as large population. Their principal function is an advisory body to the Superintendent to set policy for the administration of the Town Council President: of Public Works. Town, its general government and pro- Clyde L. Younger grams, adopt an operating budget on rec- • August 11, 2009: the Town Council voted to take permanent and temporary ommendations by the Town Manager, and Town Council Clerk: easements along Pleasant Street in serve as overseers of the various agencies Valerie Papas of municipal government. As you will see connection with improvements to the from this report for calendar year 2009, Pleasant Street corridor. your Town Council has been actively • October 13, 2009: the Town Council engaged in the performance of its respon- approved an Acceptance of a Gift of sibilities as elected representatives of services from Bentley University to add a Watertown’s residents. Press/Media Area and storage room at the John A. Ryan Arena.

Standing, left to right: Stephen Corbett, Valerie Papas, Jonathan Hecht, Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney, Michael J. Driscoll, John J. Lawn, Jr. Seated, left to right: Angeline B. Kounelis, Mark Sideris, Clyde L. Younger, Vincent J. Piccirilli, Jr., Susan G. Falkoff

8 • October 13, 2009: the Town Council The Town Council, through its subcommit- We also acknowledge with thanks and adopted a resolution supporting the goal tees, continued its work on the following respect the efforts of each and every Town of reconfiguring part of Mt. Auburn matters: the development of the Fiscal Year employee in every department, along with Street and Main Street to improve 2011 budget; improvements to streets, side- those members who serve on elected and pedestrian and traffic safety. walks and planting strips; continued discus- appointed boards, commissions and com- • October 24, 2009: the Town Council sions on the Capital Improvement Program mittees. Their commitment to public service adopted a Loan Order to borrow and/ 2010-2014; disposition of branch libraries; is recognized with pride and gratitude. and the need for a Recycling Center. or expend monies in the amount of To each and every one of the merchants $881,000 for the purpose of purchasing Acknowledgments and businesses in our great community, we departmental equipment for the Fire thank you for your diligence, patience and Department, Police Department and the The President and members of the Town support. Building a foundation through Department of Public Works. Council, individually and collectively, grate- your professional and cooperative efforts • October 24, 2009: the Town Council fully acknowledge those who have helped in has resulted in quality services that resi- voted the enactment of section 2a of the the fulfillment of its mission to serve the dents and visitors continue to enjoy. Local Option Meals Excise Tax and Local people of the City known as the Town of Option Room Occupancy Tax in Watertown. We are especially grateful to the Our commitment to the citizens of our accordance with Mass General Law, Town Manager who continues to provide Town remains constant. Because you have Chapter 64L. guidance and assistance with the fiscal entrusted us, as your public servants, with responsibility, budgetary process and man- your continued support and input, we • December 15, 2009: the Town Council agement of the day-to-day operations of would like to especially extend our heartfelt voted an Ordinance prohibiting above- the Town. gratitude to all residents for making ground mausoleums at Ridgelawn Watertown your home. Cemetery.

9 TOWN OF WATERTOWN Office of the Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll

To the Honorable Town Council, Residents, and Taxpayers of Watertown: Barak H. Obama, on the weekend of January 20, 2009. The officers On behalf of the City known as the Town of Watertown, its employees, and were sworn in as U.S. Marshals. the distinguished members of the Town Council, I am pleased to present to • Watertown makes application for funding in a federal you the Town of Watertown’s Annual Report for the calendar year begin- economic stimulus package – Watertown identified a myriad of ning January 1, 2009 and ending December 31, 2009. I believe you will projects totaling $16,344,696 that met the requirements of “shovel- find this annual report both interesting and informative as it recapitulates ready” within 180 days and must be completed within two years. These the accomplishments and achievements of the Town for the stated period. projects spanned such topics as clean energy and efficiency, private I am pleased to report that the Executive and Legislative branches of our development, and municipal facilities. government, working in tandem, have successfully managed and main- • Watertown to refinance bonds issued in 1997, 1998 and 2000 tained a wide array of municipal services while maintaining fiscal disci- – The recent economic downturn and resulting investor flight to high- pline. These successes have been made through a commitment to leverage quality (very safe) municipal securities has created an interest rate in both outside funding sources (federal, state, and private) and town funds which it would be prudent for the Town to refinance unpaid balances of to improve the quality of life and vibrancy of the community. the 1997, 1998 and 2000 bond issues. The Watertown economy is weathering the difficult global, national and REFUNDING BONDS $12,500,000 state economic downturn but local fiscal restraints must be maintained in In May of 2009, Refunding Bonds for School Project Bonds dated August order that the delivery of local services enjoyed today are not further 15, 1997, Municipal Purpose Loan of 1998 Bonds and 2000 Bonds in the eroded due to future economic uncertainty. Throughout this report the amount of $12,500,000 were issued at a rate of 2.40%. Because the inter- reader will find detailed narratives discussing programs and initiatives that est rate of the original bonds ranged between 4.03% and 5.03%, the meet this philosophy. The selection below highlights some of the particu- refunded bond issue represents cumulative Debt Service savings from FY10 larly noteworthy achievements of 2009. through FY18 of $1,003,314 for the balance of debt remaining. • Municipal Electricity Procurement – Post 2010 – In January • Town Share of Savings is 44.6% or $447,322 2009, the Town participated in a collective bid for the purchase of • State Share of Savings is 55.4% or $555,992 municipal electric supply and related services. The most favorable bid Watertown Landing Improvements – In March 2009, the Town result was 9.330 cents per kwh for a term of 39 months (September received a $100,000 grant from the Department of Housing and 2011 through December 2014) which is 0.495 cents per kwh less than Community Development (DHCD) and a $150,000 matching grant from the current contract price of 9.825 cents per kwh. The Town Council the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to undertake authorized a contract term in excess of three years for the purchase of improvements to the Watertown Landing. In September of 2006, the electric supply and related services on January 13, 2009. Honorable Town Council previously approved a transfer of funds in the • Watertown Police Department goes to Washington – Three amount of $16,220 to complete revisions to the landing design as devel- members of the department joined with 82 other officers of NEMLEC oped by the Cecil Group and prepare plans and specifications for bidding. to protect the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States,

10 The Town’s contribution completed the design phase which began with a • With respect to affordability and age restrictions, as a follow-up to the $25,000 contribution from the Watertown Savings Bank during the plan- Honorable Town Council’s Policy Guidelines, the premises will include at ning for the Watertown Square Improvements. least 15 rental units to be occupied by households with incomes equal to The Town will collaborate with DCR in the implementation of improve- or less than 60% of the area median income with 10 of the 15 affordable ments, which will include, but are not limited to, new curbs and sidewalks, units subject to local preference; and at least one member of each lighting, signage, site furniture and appropriate plantings to beautify this household must be 55 years of age or older. important point of access to the river and promote an improved relation- • Mitchell Properties also donated $30,000 of construction improvements ship to Watertown Square. for recreational improvements to the adjacent ballfield and related The Blue Barrel for the Green Owner – The Department of Public areas. Works through a grant from the Massachusetts Department of • Furthermore, in addition to Mitchell Properties investing over Environmental Protection offered Watertown residents the opportunity to $15 million in this building along with the other related enhancements, purchase “The New Englander” rain barrels to promote water conservation this project will produce tax revenue and lease payments of approximately and a green garden at a cost of $62.95 (Regular price $119.95). $12 million for the Town over the next 50 years, all from a building that Orangio designated Community Emergency Response Coordinator has been long-vacant and previously not creating any tax revenue. – Fire Chief Mario A. Orangio was designated Community Emergency Richard E. Mastrangelo Council Chamber – Audio – Visual Response Coordinator for the Battle Road Regional Emergency Planning Improvements – In June 2009, the Honorable Town Council took up an Committee. The Town also agreed to join the Battle Road Regional agenda item to fund a grant to the Watertown Cable Access Corporation for Emergency Planning Committee. the purchase of cameras, LCD monitors, and broadcast equipment intended Tufts Health Plan, our neighbor – In April 2009, Tufts Health Plan to improve the broadcast of governmental meetings from the Chamber to made a one-time gift to the Watertown Fire and Police Departments. The the general public in the interest of public support and stimulation. $34,000 contribution was allocated in the following manner: $14,000 to Watertown is selected in Community Safe Routes to School (SRTS) fund the Police Department’s RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) overtime, and 2008 – 2009 Summary Report – Watertown was selected as one of four $20,000 to replace nine-decade-old defibrillators for the Fire Department. communities, because of good walking infrastructure and strong commu- 2009 Tree City USA – Watertown was named as 2009 Tree City USA. nity support for SRTS programs, to be highlighted in this report. In each of Watertown Housing Authority’s Plans for the Public Housing the four communities (Brockton, Newton, Stoneham and Watertown) each Transformation and Preservation of the 100 Warren Street local coordinator spent 8 to 10 hours per week working with schools, initi- Elderly/Disabled Complex – In June 2009, the Town strongly supported ating walking programs such as Walk on Wednesdays, pedometer chal- the application by the Watertown Housing Authority to secure funds in the lenges and art/poster contests. In addition, coordinators sought to improve amount of $3,750,000 from HUD along with leveraged $5,398,500 in funding the walking environment of the schools by addressing snow removal and from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development improving safety of students in the drop-off/pick-up areas of the schools. to upgrade 50 federal units of housing as well as the rehabilitation of the Special Election - Senator in Congress – On August 31, 2009, a com- entire 122-unit development. munication was forwarded to the Secretary of the Commonwealth from His Watertown Housing Authority Awarded $3,750,000 from the U.S. Excellency, The Governor designating Tuesday, January 19, 2010 as the date Department of Housing and Community Development in order to of the Special Election to fill the vacancy in the office of Senator in Congress complete the restoration and transformation of its 100 Warren caused by the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. In the precept issued Street housing development serving the elderly and disabled –In by the Governor, the State Primary was held on December 8, 2009, and the September 2009, The award was part of the $96 million in grants to 15 State Election will be held on January 19, 2010. The Polls to be open from public housing authorities across the country to make substantial improve- 7 am – 8 pm. ments to public housing development under HUD’s Public Housing What has been highlighted is only as a sampling of the breadth and width of Transformation initiative. The funds are provided through the American the Town’s activities during 2009. I urge you to peruse this Annual Report Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. to gain greater insight into the myriad of activities of the various Town The Apartments at Coolidge School – In June 2009, a ribbon-cutting departments. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the residents of ceremony was held to mark the renovation and restoration of the former Watertown, its employees and the distinguished members of the Honorable public school to afford a special opportunity for active adults to live in an Town Council for their dedication and commitment to keeping Watertown a intimate, comfortable community near the heart of Coolidge Square. There fiscally sound community striving to provide the highest level of services to are 23 market apartments and 15 affordable apartments. the citizens of Watertown while utilizing the taxpayers’ dollars efficiently. WHAT THE TOWN GETS • The term of the lease is 50 years with two 20-year extensions at the Sincerely, discretion of the Town. • Mitchell Properties was responsible for the renovations of this building and bringing the building into compliance with all codes and policies of the Town. Given this responsibility, Mitchell Properties invested over $15 Michael J. Driscoll million in the project, producing market-rate and affordable apartments, Town Manager doing a historically appropriate renovation of this historic Town property, making this building handicapped accessible for the first time and installing landscaping improvements. • With respect to the historically appropriate renovation, construction has retained the beauty of the building and restored its historic integrity. In February 2009, this building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic landmark. 11 Board of Assessors

During 2009, the Assessing Department Fiscal Year 2010 also saw a decline in com- increase to meet the Town’s budgetary continued to work toward the mission of mercial and industrial property assess- needs. providing fair and equitable assessments for ments. As the global and national recession While Residential taxpayers are paying a all Watertown taxpayers. continued to deepen during 2007, 2008 much lower tax rate than commercial tax- and then into 2009, unemployment wors- The Assessors completed the triennial prop- payers, they are also eligible to receive the ened and many businesses began to cut erty re-assessment which is mandated by residential tax exemption worth $1,111 in back on inventories and production result- the Department of Revenue every three tax dollars. For Fiscal Year 2010, 6,260 res- ing from weak demand. At the local level years. The re-assessment program involves idential taxpayers received the exemption this could be seen as some businesses an extensive audit of assessment records out of approximately 9,650 residential closed and staffing was reduced at others, and procedures in order to ensure the properties. In addition, there are a number while state sales and income tax collections Town is meeting the “Full and Fair Cash” of statutory exemptions that are available to declined significantly. Commercial and standard for property assessments. certain qualifying taxpayers: All of these industrial property values are highly sensi- exemptions are at their maximum allowable Each year the Assessors review property tive to supply and demand market changes amounts under the law: assessments to determine if any adjustments and as a result, the value of these proper- are necessary to reflect changes in market ties began to decline during 2008 and into Clause values. Toward the end of 2005 the residen- 2009. 22 10% (or greater) tial real estate market began to slowly Disabled Veteran $ 800 Unlike the residential market which soften and continued a more steady decline appears to have stabilized, the commer- 22E 100% Disabled through 2006 and 2007. An analysis of cal- cial/industrial market continues to experi- Veteran $2,000 endar 2008 property sales indicated that ence weakness. Even as the global and residential market values continued to national economy shows faint signs of 17D Surviving Spouse/Minor decrease, and therefore warranted a down- strengthening, it can take many months for Child or Elderly Person $ 350 ward adjustment, making Fiscal Year 2010 businesses to get production and inventory the third year in a row that the Assessors 37A Blind Person $1,000 back up to full capacity. Further adjust- decreased most residential assessments. ments in commercial and industrial prop- 41C Qualified Senior Single family homes were least affected, fol- erty assessments may be necessary next Citizen (65+) $1,000 lowed by condominiums, while two- and year (Fiscal Year 2011) as a result of this three-family properties experienced the Among the goals and objectives set by the recovery lag time. biggest decreases. These adjusted assess- Board of Assessors for 2010 is an ongoing ments were reflected in the fourth quarter The decline of both the commercial/ and increasing commitment to providing “actual” tax bill which was issued in early industrial and residential property assess- taxpayers with information through the April of 2010. ments resulted in increases in the respec- Town’s website, mailers, news articles, tive tax rates. The Town budget actually cable television and public appearances. A preliminary review of calendar 2009 resi- decreased in Fiscal Year 2010 from Fiscal dential property sales provides some indi- Year 2009, but due to cuts in State Aid and cation that the residential market has other important revenue sources, the rev- stabilized, and for the time being is no enue generated by property taxes needed to longer in decline. 2009 2010 FISCAL YEAR (07/01/08 – 6/30/09) (07/01/09 – 06/30/10) Tax Rates: Residential $12.24 $13.31 Commercial $22.54 $22.54 Industrial $22.54 $22.54 Personal Property $22.54 $22.54 Residential Exemption $1,086.09 $1,111.00 Valuations: Residential $4,264,515,300 $4,027,039,768 Commercial $ 658,305,124 $4,027,039,768 Industrial $ 230,058,940 $4,027,039,768 Personal Property $ 92,411,840 $4,027,039,768

12 Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk

This Report on the Treasurer/Collector/ Short-Term borrowings for Fiscal Year 2009 Watertown continues to have a high rate of Parking Clerk Office covers Fiscal Year were as follows: Real Estate Tax collections. The rate of col- 2009, from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009. lection for FY 2009 Property Taxes, as of Bond Anticipation Schedules of Selected Financial Information, June 30, 2009 was 99%. Notes (BANs): $350,000 Major Categories of Receipts and Debt $350,000 As of June 30, 2009 the following FY 2009 Principal and Interest are shown. Outstanding 7/01/09 ______taxes and user charges were unpaid: During FY 2009 bond principal payments Short-Term Interest paid in FY 2009 was Real Estate $ 1,042,885 were $3,668,333 and long-term interest $26,622. Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) Personal Property 38,401 payments were $1,739,776. are primarily used to generate revenue needed to begin funding capital projects Motor Vehicle 195,495 Total debt principal balance was before permanent borrowing (Bonds) is Boat 0 $48,599,322 as of June 30, 2009. issued. A Bond Anticipation Note (BAN) Water 430,124 generally costs less to issue than Bonds and Sewer 729,604 can be rolled over for one year. Commercial Refuse 16,328

FY 2009 Selected Financial Information TAX TITLES July 01, 2008 – June 30, 2009 Brought Forward (July 01, 2008) $660,111 DEBT BALANCE (6/30/09) $ 48,599,322 Tax Takings 157,707 Subsequent Taxes 7,463 FUNDS Abatement and Void (22,740) Brought Forward (July 01, 2008) $ 37,688,381 Redemptions (319,927) Cash 130,424,299 Foreclosures______(20,168) Cash Paid Out______124,405,775 Ending Balance (June 30, 2009) $462,446 Ending Balance (June 30, 2009) $ 43,706,905 MAJOR CATEGORIES OF RECEIPTS CASH MANAGEMENT Property/Excise Taxes $69,936,596 Interest Income $563,785 Intergovernmental 11,757,527 Short-Term Interest Paid______26,622 Water/Sewer/Commercial 13,435,923 Net $537,163 Departmental 3,150,521 OTHER INTEREST Interest Earnings 563,785 Tax Titles $ 70,986 Parking Fines 701,348 Late Payments 287,663 ______Parking Meters 341,723 TOTAL $358,649 License and Permits 216,316 Total Interest Income $922,434 Payments in Lieu of Taxes 2,018,745 Total Short-Term Interest Expense______26,622 Penalty Interest & Costs 386,693 Net Interest Income $895,812

13 Town Auditor

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40 Personnel Department

The Personnel Department consists of the In response to budget reductions in Civil Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 which Personnel Director and the Administrative Service, the Human Resources Division expands the time limits for employees to Assistant. The Department provides services (HRD) delegated the civil service appoint- challenge pay discrimination based upon to regular, part-time and temporary munici- ment and promotion approval processes to race, gender, age and disability or other fac- pal employees on issues related to adminis- the municipalities effective September 1, tors; the Americans with Disabilities Act tering the personnel bylaws, policies and 2009. This action requires that the Personnel Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008, which procedures; maintaining employee classifi- Department take on more responsibilities became effective January 1, 2009 and cation and compensation plans; processing for the Civil Service recruitment process for addresses performance and conduct issues of all municipal personnel actions to ensure the Police and Fire Departments without under the Americans with Disabilities Act. legal and policy compliance; managing additional support from the state. It also expands the definition of the term employee recruitment and selection; and disability. The Personnel Department worked with the coordinating training services. Metro North Regional Employment Board to In 2009 the Governor signed into law Unemployment, Workers Compensation, place Watertown youth in summer employ- Chapter 28 of the Acts of 2009 which made Department of Transportation regulations ment positions with various departments. changes to the state’s conflict of interest law, for random drug and alcohol testing, med- Supported by Federal Stimulus funding of required distribution of the changed law, as ical testing and psychological evaluation the American Recovery and Reinvestment well as enacting a new mandated online services are managed from the Personnel Act, the summer youth employment pro- employee conflict of interest test. The Department through third-party agreements gram was able to provide valuable work Personnel Department supported the Town with professionals in those fields. experience for five Watertown youth in a Clerk’s office by assisting with distribution of mentoring environment. the conflict of interest law to employees, The Department deals with a wide variety of boards and commission members and issues relative to quality of life in the work- The Personnel Department is a support to elected officials. The Personnel Department place. The Employee Assistance Program the other departments. We frequently pro- will be responsible for providing a copy to (EAP) contract is managed from this depart- vide department heads and individual new hires through the new employee orien- ment. This contract provides services as a employees with interpretations of their col- tation process. benefit for all municipal employees and lective bargaining agreements, federal and their immediate family members relating to state employment laws. There have been In order to keep up with all of the required counseling, advocacy, advice, financial plan- changes to a number of federal and state changes the Personnel Department staff ning and other confidential services. laws and regulations pertaining to employ- have attended seminars, participated in ment practices in 2009. These are: the webinars, attended Massachusetts Municipal The Personnel Department seeks to improve Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act Personnel Association (MMPA) meetings, the effectiveness of Town services by recruit- of 2008, which took effect in November reviewed current policies, procedures and ing skilled employees. Recruitments are 2009 and addresses the use of genetic infor- forms and made revisions where needed. posted to the Town’s website as well as the mation in health insurance; Family Medical Department of Unemployment Assurance, The Personnel Director is part of the Leave Act (FMLA) amendments, which took the Massachusetts Municipal Association Emergency Preparedness Team which meets effect in January 2009 and are the most website, and professional websites. regularly and is chaired by the Fire Chief. comprehensive changes made to that benefit Applicants can sign up for e-mailed notices The Personnel Director is the advocate and since they were first published in 1993, of job postings, view the postings, fill out a support for municipal employees involved in requiring new forms and added protected Town Application form from the Personnel emergencies. leave for certain types of service member- Department web page, and submit it by related leave; the American Recovery and The Personnel Director, as the ADA e-mail at any hour of the day. Similarly, resi- Reinvestment Act which was signed into law Coordinator, assists the Commission on dents who are interested in Civil Service in February 2009 to address unemployment Disability as staff support for their meetings recruitments can research examination and COBRA benefits for claims that meet and activities. The Commission on Disability dates and apply online directly to the certain eligibility requirements; the Lilly provides information, advice and advocacy Human Resources Division website.

41 for Town and School departments as well partnership with Perkins School for the guide was updated and distributed at the as individuals in the community. The Blind to fund a “newsline,” which is a pro- Faire on the Square. Information about Commission regularly reviews local con- gram that allows the Watertown Tab to be meetings and pertinent issues can be found struction plans for compliance with the heard through an audio menu on cell on the website www.wcod.org. Ten monthly Americans with Disabilities Act, participates phones. The Commission funded sign lan- meetings are held on the third Wednesday of in Faire on the Square and advocates for guage interpreters for the Special Education the month. residents with School and Town officials. Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) Annual Some of the many accomplishments in 2009 Awards Ceremony and showing of the movie include a Speaker Series in which guest Including Samuel as well as at civic speakers were invited to address topics of events and the Faire on the Square. The interest, a partnership with the Department Commission is in collaboration with the of Public Works (DPW) and the Perkins Cable Access Board to study the feasibility of School for the Blind to have the DPW close captioning of Town Council meetings. Recycling Brochure printed in Braille; a The Watertown Disability Friendly Business

Town Clerk and Election

The Town Clerk and Election Office serves office also serves as a liaison between • Ensured compliance with state guidelines as a direct link between the citizenry and its the Town and the Federal and State in the filing of necessary annual reports Town government. The Town Clerk’s office, governments. with the Alcohol Beverage Control by statute, is responsible for the issuance Commission and the Department of During calendar year 2009, the office of vital statistics, maintenance of Town Public Safety. achieved the following: records, the insurance of compliance with • Ensured access to all polling locations the Commonwealth’s Open Meeting Law and • Maintained the highest level of accuracy throughout the Town. it also serves as a repository for all rules, in the recording and issuance of the Vital • Coordinated Public/Private resources regulations, ordinances and bylaws promul- Statistics of the Town of Watertown. in planning of the Faire on the Square gated by the Town Council and other town • Placed election signage in strategic 2009. departments. locations throughout the Town alerting The Election Commission, directed under The Town Clerk’s office was first established the citizenry to the upcoming voting Massachusetts General Law, by the four- in 1634, the first year records were kept, exercises. member board of election commissioners, and continues today to provide accurate • Conducted the 2009 Annual Town has a number of responsibilities mandated documentation on events and happenings of Census. by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 50 the City known as the Town of Watertown. • Participated in the development of the through 56. The Commission as charged The Town Clerk’s office provides a number Town’s FY10 operating budget. is to ensure fair and impartial elections in of consumer services, such as the issuance • Continued the duties and responsibilities the Town of Watertown. Responsibilities of dog licenses, the sale of various Division as Burial Agent for the Town. include: coordination of the annual census, of Fisheries and Wildlife licenses, and the generation of voting lists and jury lists, • Completed the annual renewal process office also serves as a distribution center implementation of the National Voter for all applicable licenses, permits and for various Town brochures and surveys. Registration Act through the establishment certificates while ensuring compliance The staff in the office also serve as “unoffi- of the Central Voter Registry, maintenance with Chapter XVII of the Town’s cial ombudsmen” to provide general infor- of the town’s residency database and com- ordinances. mation regarding various municipal pliance with the Commonwealth’s Campaign services to the public. The Town Clerk’s Finance reporting procedures.

42 The Election Commission conducted the Licenses and Fees Vital Statistics following voting exercises during 2009. Burial Premits $1,060.00 Births 436 DATE TYPE OF ELECTION Dog Licenses 7,750.00 Deaths Recorded 277 Cat Licenses 3,560.00 Marriage Intentions 246 November 3, 2009 General Town Election Marriages 6,175.00 Marriages Recorded 236 Raffle 190.00 Affidavits of Correction December 8, 2009 Special State of Births, Deaths and Primary – Senator Hunting Licenses 692.75 Marriages Recorded 19 in Congress Wildland Stamps – Resident and Non-Resident 1,450.00 Licenses The Licensing Board promulgates rules and Archery Stamp 295.00 regulations specific to Watertown to ensure Kennel License 2 the life, safety, and health of the citizenry Sporting Licenses 1,025.00 Dog Licenses 730 and town visitors. The Licensing Board Fishing Licenses 4,882.75 Cat Licenses 393 issues a myriad of licenses and permits that Sporting Fees 443.40 Seven Day All Alcoholic range from amusement devices, to gasoline, Waterfowl Stamps 28.50 Common Victualler (Restaurants) 18 to liquor licenses. All of the licenses issued Seven Day Wine/Malt are renewable yearly. The Licensing Board Licenses Commission – Alcohol, Common Victualler (Restaurants) 4 also serves as a hearing officer to ensure Common Victualler, etc. 120,785.00 compliance with licensing conditions. Miscellaneous Clerk/Election Six Day All Alcoholic fees 167.70 Common Victualler (Restaurants) 8 The Licensing Board also works closely General on Premise 0 with five town departments, the Alcohol Resident Book 456.00 Beverage Control Commission and the State Certified Copies 20,961.00 Six Day Wine/Malt Common Victualler 3 Fire Marshall’s Office in the licensing Underground Storage Permits 7,025.00 Common Victualler License 92 process. Non-Criminal Fines 4,300.00 Clubs 11 Miscellaneous Licensing Auto Dealer Class I 10 Board Fees______32,920.00 Auto Dealer Class II 12 TOTAL $214,167.10 Auto Dealer Class III 0 All Alcoholic Packaged Goods Store 6 Recording Fees Packaged Goods Store Wine/Malt 7 Business Certificates and Business Certificate 24-Hours opening 5 Withdrawals______11,240.00 Sale of Food at Retail 5 TOTAL $11,240.00 Entertainment 18 Music Box 7 Total Clerk’s Revenue Automatic Amusement Device 12 Total Fees Collected $225,407.10 Auto Repair 56 Paid to the Commonwealth______($8,374.00) Letting out of Motor Vehicles 3 Net Revenue to the Town $217,033.10 Shuttle/Jitney 1 Livery 13

43 Information Technology Department

The Information Technology Department Working with department managers, the new language text translator was added. A supports the Town of Watertown’s adminis- Information Technology Department contin- link to the Watertown Cable Access Corp. trative Information Systems and leads the ued the project of improving the MUNIS now provides live and recorded video. The implementation of new computer technolo- Integrated Financial Management system. Town Ordinances are available, as well an gies. Located in Town Hall, the Department The integrated financial management sys- ordering system for birth, death, and mar- administers the Town’s wide-area computer tem improves the functionality of municipal riage certificates. The Citizens Request network, which connects Town Hall, applications and improves employee pro- Tracking module allows citizens to make Library, Police, Fire, School Department, ductivity. A migration to a newer version of requests online for various services. online and Public Works buildings. Additional the MUNIS software suite was accomplished payments now include Real Estate and municipal buildings on the wide-area net- in 2009, bringing about new software fea- Personal property, and pet licensing. work include the Commander’s Mansion, tures and security. The IT Department continued an effort to Senior Center, and John A. Ryan Skating The Assessors’ Office collaborated with IT save costs, paper, and energy, and the fol- Arena. The Department also maintains and other departments in expanding the lowing were undertaken: energy-saving computers which process Financials, Town’s Geographical Information System computers and monitors, double-sided Accounts Payables, Purchasing, Requi- (GIS). Digital maps with links to data files printers, and remanufactured toner car- sitioning, Payroll, Water/Sewer Billing, Real provide employees with an efficient method tridges. Working with various Town Estate Tax Billing, and Assessing. Other of analyzing Town information. The GIS Departments, the IT Department will con- administrative systems, such as Motor model is web-based and hosted – reducing tinue these policies. Vehicle Billing and Parking Ticket process- operating costs, and eliminating the need ing, are supported by outside vendors. Respectfully submitted, for significant hardware investments. The The Town’s Computer Network provides a GIS system now benefits town staff and the Joseph Mahoney complete electronic platform for employees Assessors, Public Works, Public Safety, and IT Manager to communicate and share documents. Planning Department. Plans are in place to Built on a backbone of high-speed fiber- provide public access. optic cabling, the system allows for private The IT Department manages the Town’s and secure communications among Town official website: www.watertown-ma.gov. A departments. A firewall gateway provides major re-design of the site was launched in secure Internet e-mail and web browsing. the spring. New features include improved Anti-virus software is installed to update navigation techniques, move visible calen- network computers automatically from a dar, and a “Browse Aloud” tool that trans- secure website. Web monitoring and filter- lates text to voice. Also, an Emergency Alert ing software was migrated to an improved component was under development, and a platform.

44 Town Attorney

Kopelman and Paige, P.C. serves the City permit issues, and have advised the Town proven useful as guidance for the Town’s known as the Town of Watertown as its Town Manager on cable television negotiations. boards and committees as they approach Attorney, providing the Town Manager, Town We have worked with the Town’s planners various Town issues and assist the Town Council, and the various boards and depart- on zoning issues and the development of in framing legal questions for efficient ments of the Town with legal opinions and land use ordinances. And we have continued resolution. representation. We have worked closely with to advise the Town with respect to its hous- It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Town on matters involving personnel ing programs. the City known as the Town of Watertown as issues, land use, real estate, and public The Town Attorney represents the Town Town Attorney for these many years. As health. We have reviewed and advised on the before administrative agencies including the always, we thank the Town Manager and form of contracts with vendors and consult- Civil Service Commission, the Labor Relations Town Council for this opportunity and for ants. We provided regular general advice to Commission, and the Massachusetts their efforts and dedication in attending to the Town. As Town Attorney, we attended all Commission Against Discrimination. We the needs of the Town. We are also appre- Town Council meetings to assist with issues also represent the Town in litigation matters ciative of the opportunity to work with the of parliamentary procedure and interpreta- before the state and federal courts. Town’s department heads, employees and tions of the Town’s Home Rule Charter and boards, and look forward to continuing to the Council’s Rules, as well as the require- As we have in the past, we continued to pro- provide the Town with effective legal advice ments of state statutes and the Town’s own vide the Town with no-cost memoranda on a and representation. ordinances and rules and regulations. wide range of legal topics in order to assist the Town in making decisions in a careful Respectfully submitted, As Town Attorney, we worked with the Town and cost-effective manner. This year, we pro- Manager and department heads to provide Kopelman and Paige, P.C. vided the Town with memoranda on the legal advice and resolve a number of issues. Town Attorney trimming of shade trees, amendments to the We continue to advise the Board of Health Americans with Disabilities Act, changes in on matters of enforcement and public health the state’s Conflict of Interest law, and the operations. We have worked with the licens- implications of the Green Communities Act, ing board on a number of license and among others. These memoranda have

45 Purchasing Department

The Purchasing Department aims to provide Likewise, there were a number of other replacement, public safety supplies, vehicle valuable services to the Town by assisting projects that were bid that yielded bid parts, building maintenance services departments with obtaining the highest awards 25% below estimated costs. (HVAC), training and educational services quality of supplies and services for the best are all examples of successful procure- During 2009, the Purchasing Department dollar value. The department also functions ments exercised by Watertown through the received quotes for 30% recycled paper as a control to ensure the Town is comply- use of the State contracts. Cooperative bid- which came in within the budget to procure ing with Massachusetts General Laws and ding has led to cost savings in the procure- 30% recycled paper for the better half of Local Ordinances. Ongoing initiatives ment of office supplies, heating fuel, vehicle 2009. include identifying cost savings, consolidat- fuel, road salt, natural gas, electricity and ing purchases when appropriate, and assist- The Purchasing Department ensures that all vehicles. ing departments with gathering information projects are posted on the Town’s website The Purchasing Agent works closely with needed to make informed buying decisions. and kept up to date as projects become departments to guide them through the active. Purchasing encourages bidders to In 2009 the Purchasing Department publi- purchasing process to deliver needed goods request bid packages via e-mail or on the cally procured goods and services which, or services. Maintaining open communica- web. This reduces costs for both reproduc- as evidence by the struggling economical tions with departments allows for purchas- tion and postage. Additionally, all active times, resulted in large cost savings. The ing to identify areas of opportunity for contracts are posted on the public drive for Acton Street Conduit Installation project centralized purchasing or group pur- Town Department use to review and refer- had bids come in close to 50% below chasing to gain the most cost-effective ence all contracted services. engineers’ estimates. The public bidding procurements. of High Density Storage Units for the new The Purchasing Department will continue Respectfully submitted, Police Station realized a 24% cost savings to use the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as well as the Treasurer’s Counter project bidding awards, as well as cooperative bids Raeleen Parsons, MCPPO which came in at 25% lower than engineers’ conducted with a group of municipalities. Purchasing Agent estimates. Bids for Road Salt came in at Computer equipment, computer software, 22% lower than 2008 and bids for gaso- computer consulting services, furniture, line/diesel fuel/#2 Heating Oil came in at an moving services, vehicle purchase and average savings of 48% lower than in 2008.

46 Health Department

The Health Department staff consists of Environmental Inspections: 2009 one full-time Director, one full-time Food Establishments 867 Chief Environmental Health Officer, two Housing 205 full-time Sanitarians, one full-time Head Swimming Pool/Whirlpool 155 Clerk, one full-time Public Health Nurse, Hazardous Materials 137 one full-time Animal Control Officer/Jr. Nuisance Complaints 96 Sanitarian and one part-time Food Complaints 36 Veterinarian. Animal Complaints 386 The Board of Health consists of three Tobacco Compliance Checks 97 members that are appointed for three- Total 1,979 year terms by the Town Manager. During 2009, the Watertown Health Department provided 26 Person In Charge Environmental Health (PIC) trainings for food handlers in The Health Department conducts numerous Watertown. Under the Massachusetts Food mandated inspections throughout the year Code, the Person In Charge is “the individ- according to local and state mandates. ual present at a Food Establishment who is These inspections include, but are not lim- responsible for the operation at the time of ited to, food establishments, including inspection.” These voluntary trainings are grease trap maintenance, housing, body art offered by the Health Department in order establishments, indoor air quality at skating to provide food handlers with the tools nec- Housing inspection before and after rinks, tanning establishments, swimming essary to operate in compliance with the pools and whirlpools, group homes and Food Code. Issues covered during these PIC motels. The Health Department also con- trainings include appropriate cooking and ducts hazardous materials inspections reheating temperatures, when and how to in accordance with provisions of the wash your hands, and cleaning and sanitiz- Watertown Hazardous Material Regulation. ing requirements. This program is designed to assist busi- Another portion of the Health Department’s nesses in the proper handling, storage and work involves complaint investigation, disposal of hazardous materials. including, but not limited to, solid waste, dust, odors, noises, rodents, hazardous waste incidents, food establishments, food- borne illnesses, nuisances, tobacco, hous- ing, and problem animals. On occasion, the Health Department must hold show cause administrative hearings and prepare cases for resolution in District Court. Five hun- dred and ninety complaints were investi- gated in 2009 and 18 of these cases were resolved in court. Some of those complaints involve rubbish and garbage left out on the curb at non- collection times or days. The Health Department distributed bright green door hangers reminding citizens of how and Rubbish and garbage complaint investigation when to place garbage and rubbish out for collection.

Food inspections

47 In conjunction with inspectional work, the Household Medical Waste was collected in Rabies Clinic Health Department issues numerous per- the spring and fall at the Administration The rabies clinics are held annually with mits. Before a permit can be issued, the Building parking lot. A vendor specializing Thomas Cusick, DVM, participating. Dogs permit holder/applicant submits complete in the packaging, transportation and dis- and cats are vaccinated for rabies the first and accurate information. In addition, the posal of Medical Waste was hired to handle Saturday in April each year at the Health Department reviews plans for all this material. Sixty residents brought nee- Watertown Administration Building. This new and renovated food establishments, dles, syringes and medications for sanitary past year a total of 48 animals received facilities with hazardous materials, tanning, disposal. Eliminating these materials from rabies vaccinations at the clinic. body art, swimming pools, and Community the municipal waste stream reduces the Development and Planning projects. potential for accidental needle sticks and the improper disposal of medical wastes. Environmental Permits: 2009 Food Establishment 210 Animal Control Temporary Food Events 241 The ACO/Jr. Sanitarian’s (ACO) duties Swimming Pool/Whirlpool 20 include, but are not limited to, patrolling Tanning Establishments 3 the town, participation in a rabies/West Nile Body Art Establishments 1 Virus task force, investigation of vector con- Hazardous Material Facilities 150 trol and solid waste complaints, swimming Tobacco Establishments 41 pool inspections, food establishment inspections and the enforcement of all per- Rabies Vaccination Clinic at the Town Hall Household Hazardous and tinent state laws and the Watertown Animal Medical Waste Collection Control Ordinance. Enforcement action Geese Control Watertown residents took household haz- includes the issuing of citations (tickets) In order to address the concern of an ardous waste to the Minuteman Regional for non-compliance, responding to emer- increasing geese population in Watertown, Household Products Facility in Lexington. gency dispatch calls and the prosecution of the Health Department implemented a multi- Pre-registration at the Health Department violators in District Court. The ACO edu- faceted approach designed to reduce the was required before any resident could cates the public regarding health and safety resident geese population in town. The enter the site on one of the eight collection concerns involving animals, lectures in Health Department, in conjunction with days during the year. One hundred and fifty- school classrooms and on cable television. Atlantic Goose Management, provided a spe- cially trained German Shepherd to herd the four Watertown residents visited the facility As Inspector of Animals the ACO carries out in 2009. geese away from Watertown’s parks and the isolation and quarantine of suspected playgrounds during certain weeks in the rabid animals, animals with wounds of spring and fall. In addition the Health unknown origin or animals bitten by sus- Department participated in egg oiling pected or confirmed rabid animals. These (addling) to prevent geese eggs from hatch- findings are reported to the Massachusetts ing during certain stages of their develop- Bureau of Animal Health. Isolation and ment. All egg addlers are trained and quarantine cases are often done in cooper- permitted by Geese Peace, a national geese ation with Watertown veterinarian Thomas protection agency that is recognized by PETA Cusick, DVM. and the MSPCA to conduct ethical egg- Registration at the addling techniques. A total of three eggs were Household Hazardous Waste Facility oiled in Watertown in 2009. This number is down due to increased predator activity and not all sites were able to be reached on the Charles River. The Health Department also patrols the sites where geese are known to reside to identify individuals who may be feeding geese and to educate them as to why feeding is prohibited.

Medical Waste Collection at Town Hall Abandoned dog adopted out

48 Radiological Response Plan, Isolation and Quarantine Plan, a Risk Communication Plan, a Continuity of Operation Plan (CoOP) and a Mutual Aid Agreement (MAA). In 2009 significant time was spent on improving the Shelter Operations Plans. In conjunction with the Fire, Police, Public Black line on map indicates where egg oiling Works and School Departments and and surveillance occurs Council on Aging, the Health Department opened a mock shelter at the Watertown High School. The shelter operated for a couple of hours; participants were provided a place to sleep and food. A shelter was also set up for participants who came with their animals. This exercise provided useful feedback as to improvements that need to be made to the Shelter Operations Plans.

German Shepherd used for geese herding Larvaciding catch basins to prevent WNV

Mosquito Control Wildlife The Board of Health worked in conjunction The ACO responds to calls about sick or with the East Middlesex Mosquito Control injured wildlife. The ACO also responds to Commission (EMMCP) in planning larvi- and educates residents on wildlife issues. In cide, adulticide and surveillance activities recent years there has been an increased throughout the town. In 2009 the threat of presence of wildlife in Watertown. Wildlife the West Nile Virus (WNV) continued to concerns in Watertown involve, but are not Sleeping Area at Mock Shelter impact Massachusetts and the Nation. limited to, coyotes, foxes, deer, hawks, Twenty-six mosquito pools tested positive geese, and snapping turtles. for WNV but zero humans tested positive for the Virus. This year there were no human Emergency Preparedness cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) The incorporation of emergency prepared- Virus. As a result of the WNV and EEE threat ness responsibilities has significantly the town applied larvicide briquettes to increased the workload of the Health 2,750 catch basins in order to control the Department staff. Watertown is one of 27 emergence of vector mosquitoes. The cities and towns that comprise Region 4B of Health Department and EMMCP continually the Massachusetts Department of Public monitor the emergence of these viruses Health (MDPH) emergency preparedness Animal Area at Mock Shelter and adjust plans accordingly to maintain district. There are 15 statewide coalitions in comprehensive intervention, education and all. Calendar year 2009 marked the seventh With the outbreak of the H1N1 Influenza surveillance programs. year of Watertown’s participation in the pandemic in the spring of 2009, the Health Region 4B. During the last seven years Department’s emergency preparedness In addition the Health Department distrib- Watertown has developed an emergency plans were challenged. The department uted bright blue door hangers to area preparedness plan that includes, but is not formed an H1N1 Response Team, including homes with information about West Nile limited to, Infectious Disease Emergency Fire, Police, Schools, the Chamber of Virus, removal of standing water serving as Plan, Emergency Dispensing Site (EDS) Commerce and Perkins School for the breeding areas for mosquitoes, and per- Plan, Animal Disaster Plan, Local Blind. This Response Team planned for the sonal protection from mosquitoes when Emergency Network Plan (LENS), H1N1 Influenza clinics as vaccine became outdoors.

49 available. Specifications were provided by their academic requirements, while provid- received flu shots via home visits by the CDC (Centers for Disease Prevention ing the Health Department with assistance the Public Health Nurse. Forty-two and Control) to vaccinate the priority for completion of important projects. Pneumococcal vaccines were given for populations. Projects included, but were not limited to, those who were high risk for Pneumonia. low-risk food establishment inspections, Over one thousand four-hundred and fifty In the fall, the first priority groups to be hazardous materials facility inspections, doses of seasonal influenza vaccine were vaccinated were pregnant women and close and emergency preparedness work. The administered by the Public Health Nurse contacts of infants under six months of age internship program is an ongoing initiative and Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In (including day care workers). The focus in the Health Department. addition, a total of 350 doses of Seasonal then turned to Watertown’s school popula- Influenza vaccine were redistributed to tion – public and private. Once the vaccine Community Health local medical providers. supply became more plentiful in December, schoolteachers, first responders, and others Communicable Diseases received the vaccine. Clinics will continue In the year of 2009, there were 103 com- into the year 2010 for the general public. municable/reportable diseases reported to the Watertown Health Department. The fol- lowing chart shows the incident rates for all diseases reported. Watertown Health Officers received communicable disease lab reports from Department of Public Health and other clin- Registration at H1N1 Clinic ical-based laboratories. The standard pro- cedure requires that the Health Officers conduct phone interviews to complete case reports. The information collected is used Registration at H1N1 Clinic in the surveillance, control and prevention of disease.

Flu Clinics There were ten public Seasonal Influenza/ Pneumonia clinics held in the 2009 season. There have been two clinics held at the Dispensing Area at H1N1 Clinic Watertown Senior Center, designated to address the high-risk elder population. Homebound, elderly and disabled residents

Dispensing Area at H1N1 Clinic Confirmed, Suspect & Probable Watertown’s sixth EDS-based regional Communicable Diseases in 2009 flu clinic was conducted in the city of Brookline in December of 2009. This clinic was conducted to practice a regional emer- gency response plan in order to test the feasibility of regional/mass vaccinations. Public Health Interns Throughout the year undergraduate stu- dents in biology and health sciences from Worcester State College participated in envi- ronmental health and emergency prepared- ness internship projects aimed at satisfying

50 With the challenge of H1N1 Influenza, In the year of 2009, the Health Department there were a total of 16 clinics held, which received five complaints regarding Smoking included three clinics with the Watertown in the Workplace. Public Schools. Over 1,400 doses of H1N1 Influenza vaccine were administered by Tobacco Control Statistics 2009 the Public Health Nurse and the Medical Number of Permitted Establishments 43 Reserve Corps volunteers. Clinics will con- Compliance Checks (Rounds) 2 tinue into the year 2010. Total of Completed Compliance Checks 82 Number of Violations 18 Elder Emergency Evacuation Kit Total Money Received for 2009 January $ 1,110.00 Watertown Task Force February 843.00 The Health Department assisted residents March 1,570.00 who needed help in resolving public April 15,599.15 health/medical-related issues. The Health May 3,735.75 Department’s inter-departmental task force June 9,954.65 H1N1 Clinic Volunteers continued to address the needs of residents July 773.00 in crisis. The task force included members August 1,625.00 from the Police, Fire, School and Health September 3,950.00 Health Promotion Departments, Council on Aging, Food October 12,181.90 In the year 2009, the Watertown Health Pantry, Veterans Office, Housing Authority, November 12,645.00 Department received two mini-grants from Edinburgh Center for Mental Health, and December 5,945.00 the Marshall Home Fund. The first grant is Mt. Auburn Hospital Social Services. Total $70,132.45 an Elder Emergency Evacuation Kit. This Departments continued to collaborate in Total Permits Issued for 2009 2009 to provide needed services for program provides emergency evacuation Food Service 160 Watertown residents. kits and promoted emergency prepared- Retail Food 50 ness. The second grant is the Hear Clear Caterers 6 Tobacco Control grant. This program provides Assistive One Day Catering 241 Hearing Devices for elders and provides In the spring, summer, and fall, the Health Swimming Pools/Whirlpools 20 information from the Massachusetts Department continued its tobacco compli- Mobil Foodservice 11 Commission for the Deaf. Through a ance program to help reduce youth access Funeral Directors 14 partnership with the Council on Aging and to tobacco products and to enforce local Rabies Clinic 46 Boston Dental School, in the spring and fall smoking regulations when needed. Bakery 8 of 2009, Watertown elders were given the Currently three Health Department staff Group Homes 8 opportunity to travel to Forsyth Dental members are trained to conduct tobacco Tanning 3 Hygiene Clinic, receive a cleaning, dental compliance checks, provide training for Motel 1 X-rays, and lunch. Traditional blood pres- minors and permit holders, and to enforce Tobacco 41 sure clinics were held at the Watertown Mall the Youth Access to Tobacco regulations. Hazardous Material Facility 6 from 10 am to 12 noon on the first Friday Between January and August of 2009 two Body Art Establishment 1 of each month. The clinic provided blood Body Art Practitioners 3 pressure monitoring and related health rounds of tobacco compliance checks were education to the patrons. conducted which entailed a minor entering Special thanks to, Mark Waksmonski, a permitted establishment in an attempt to Sanitarian; Cathleen Liberty, Sanitarian; buy a tobacco product. In total, there were Karen O’Reilly, Animal Control Officer/ Jr. 82 completed checks with 18 violations. Sanitarian; Sarah Kinghorn, Public Health The violators were issued a non-criminal Nurse; Maria Chiavelli, Head Clerk; Gail ticket and were educated concerning Nordby, Public Health Emergency Watertown’s Youth Access Regulations Coordinator; and Kristel Bennett, Chief including how to check for proper Environmental Health Officer for collecting identification. data, formatting and crafting this report. Elder at Forsyth Dental Clinic

51 Council on Aging

Safety, Support, and Socialization

As more research studies show the benefits In 2009, the COA was fortunate to receive Services for seniors include health insur- of exercise, good diet, and mental stimula- funding again for the continuation of the ance counseling, income tax and legal tion as a way to keep older adults healthy, taxi ride program, which allows seniors to assistance, and blood pressure screening. the Council on Aging (COA) / Senior Center get rides on short notice to hospitals and The COA caseworker provides emotional continues to offer services and programs to other necessary destinations. A shuttle bus support to seniors and their families fulfill this goal. takes people grocery shopping and trans- through home visits and phone contacts. portation to local medical appointments She works closely with outside agencies In the spring of 2009, a workshop series is available through a vendor company, and Town departments, advocates for indi- was held on coping with chronic illness funded by the COA. viduals as needed, and refers people to sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation. In appropriate services. September, a meditation class began, led by During the summer of 2009, insulation was the Center’s tai chi instructor. These classes put into the Senior Center. This improve- The Watertown Food Pantry, which helps were funded through a grant by the ment should help the building stay warmer Watertown residents of all ages, has seen an Watertown Community Foundation. in winter and cooler in hot weather. New increase in families with children request- telephone equipment was installed to ing help during these difficult economic The Center offers three exercise classes enable staff to better serve the community. times. The Food Pantry coordinator offers a week in addition to yoga, tai chi, and healthy food products and helps people weight-watching. Many activities promote Grants from the Watertown Savings Bank to link up with other agencies that can mental acuity including participation in a and the Marshall Home Fund allowed the provide help. book club, a knitting group, playing bridge Senior Center to celebrate its 15th anniver- or other games, or attending a lecture. sary in style at a June party, with a reduced The COA / Senior Center is committed to Topics addressed in our Wednesday lecture ticket price and special luncheon. One hun- continuing to design programming and series included legal issues, financial plan- dred and fifty seniors attended this special services that help older adults maximize ning, assertiveness training, and downsiz- event. their opportunities and maintain their ing. The AARP gave a class on driving and health and quality of life. The property tax work-off program pro- the Registry of Motor Vehicles also vided eight qualified seniors with an oppor- addressed safe driving issues. tunity to get a reduction in their real estate tax bill by working in a Town department.

COA Board members, Jane Stadolnik and Mary Keenan, at Faire on the Square

52 A tour of the newly renovated Edmund Fowle House Seniors enjoy a foliage trip to Quabbin Reservoir in Central Massachusetts

Quarterly Attendance Numbers

October ’09 – November ’09 – December ’09

Jan ’09 April/ July / Oct. / TOT Jan ’09 April/ July / Oct. / TOT / March June Sept. Dec. / March June Sept. Dec. ’09 ’09 ’09 ’09 ’09 ’09 ’09 ’09

Art 176 204 100 217 697 Bingo 132 139 137 126 534

Exercise (3 classes) 614 676 670 581 2541 B.C. Legal 7 3 2 5 17

Bridge 158 189 209 186 742 Income Taxes 78 27 N / A N/A 105

S.H.I.N.E. 26 24 25 51 126 Parties N/A 125 N / A 211 336

WOW 80 135 124 124 463 Trips N/A 126 95 108 329

Line Dancing 242 220 221 216 899 Flu Shots N/A N/A N / A 408 408

Cribbage 72 113 83 88 356 Yoga 265 281 262 263 1071

Computer Class N/A 9 N / A 15 24 Fuel Assistance & Good Neighbor 21 5 N / A 21 47

Book Club 10 4 N / A 27 41 Local Medical Transportation 83 80 79 81 323

Lectures 152 105 167 116 540 Shopping Bus (Round-trip) 942 925 928 932 3727

Whist 124 206 142 138 610 Emergency Assist. & Salvation Army 21 13 17 22 73

Health Screening 99 50 52 48 249 I & R (Phone & in-person estimate) 1200 1200 1200 1200

Movies 48 63 67 49 227 Book & Magazine Exchange (Est.) 300 300 300 300

Tai Chi 98 62 18 69 247 Knitting 21 22 9 27 79

Meditation 70 70 Mellowtones 36 94 26 90 246

Marshall Home Taxi Grant 45 60 78 92 275

53 Recreation Department

Organization New Department Initiatives girls in grades 3 through 8 was held at The function of the Watertown Recreation and Expansions O’Connell Field on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Department is to provide a year-round The Recreation Department, the Department recreation program for the citizens of of Community Development, Purchasing A summer basketball program in conjunc- Watertown. It is the goal of this department Department, D.P.W. and School Department tion with the Watertown Boys & Girls Club that all citizens have the opportunity to collaborated on plans and designs for the and Watertown Youth Basketball was cre- enjoy their leisure time with enjoyable replacement of the grass surface at the ated. The program played two days a week activities in a safe environment. Victory baseball and football complex with under the lights at Casey playground and In November, Thomas J. Sullivan retired as field turf. over 100 children participated. The Recreation Department added a high-school- Director of Recreation after more than 36 The department continues to run family age dodge ball program during the winter of years of service and employment to the trips to “The Big Apple Circus” at City Hall 2009. This one-night-a-weekend program Town of Watertown. Tom Sullivan dedicated Plaza, Disney’s on Ice “100 Years of Magic,” was expanded to two evenings during the himself to the safety and well-being of the “World of Fantasy” and “Harlem Globe spring due to high interest. The department residents of this community. During Mr. Trotters” at the TD Garden. The department also expanded our Saturday morning gym Sullivan’s tenure, he was instrumental in purchased Pawtucket Red Sox tickets on two hockey program starting this past December ensuring that gym spaces, playgrounds and June Sundays for games played at McCoy to include grades 8 through 10. play fields were developed and renovated to Field. The department sold 100 tickets to meet optimum service for the residents of the new edition of Ringling Bros. and This department continues to attempt to this town. He had a positive impact on Barnum Bailey Circus, “Over the Top.” make the citizens more aware of one of the many of the lives of the children he town’s most valuable assets, Arsenal Park. The department conducted vacation sports coached and worked with for those many Our pre-K Sports Program was held at the programs during December, February and years. Arsenal Park in the late spring through early April school breaks and the average atten- fall. In addition, the department collabo- In December, Peter Centola was appointed dance per session was approximately 70 rated with Watertown Youth Soccer and as the Director of Recreation. This appoint- participants. ment along with the Assistant Director and many of their 6 versus 6 and 8 versus 8 Head Clerk brings the full-time staff of the The Recreation Department’s pre-K Sports games were scheduled at the park. Adult department to three. Part-time and seasonal Program was also expanded with sessions in tennis lessons were held at Arsenal Park employees are hired to instruct and super- the winter, spring, summer and fall. The during the summer months, and the depart- vise the various programs of the depart- winter sessions were held at the Watertown ment added a fall tennis program for grades ment during the year. Boys & Girls Club, while the summer ses- 2 through 8 at Mary Williams Shea sions were a combination of sports and arts Memorial courts at Victory Field. and crafts. The spring softball program for

Saturday Morning Gym Hockey 2009 Pre-Kindergarten Summer Sports 2009

54 The Recreation Department has taken the Hosmer School for youngsters in grades Spring advantage of the newly updated town web- 2 to 10. Middle School students participated During the spring, the department con- site (www.watertown-ma.gov) to increase in a Friday night open gym program in ducted a wide range of programs for the which over 50 children participated on a citizens of Watertown. Spring programs weekly basis. On Sunday, the department included pre-K sports, “T” ball for young- offered a family drop-in program from sters in grades kindergarten to first and rag 2:00 pm-7:00 pm. From 2:00 pm-5:30 pm, ball for children in grades 2 and 3. Baton families and school-age children partici- classes were held at the Cunniff School for pated in several activities throughout the children ages four to fourteen. This pro- day, while the adults played basketball from gram culminated in participation in the 5:30 pm-7:00 pm. A Sunday morning open annual Memorial Day Parade. Also during gym program for adults was once again a the April school vacation, a sports program favorite. was held at the middle school for young- Pequossette Summer Program 2009 Baton classes for youngsters were held at sters from grades 2 to 8. A Girls Softball the Cunniff School on Tuesday evenings with League was held for youngsters in grades communication and accessibility to our pro- well over 30 children participating on a reg- 3 to 8 with over 60 girls participating. grams, applications, permits and features of ular basis. The department, in conjunction During the spring, the department contin- each facility for our residents. We have also with its counterpart in Belmont, conducted ued its programming for the special citizens utilized “notify contact” or “communicate various programs for our special-needs of the town. The department also issued by e-mail” on a regular basis. population. Programs for the special citi- permits for use of the town’s playing fields and picnic areas. Recreation offered 2009 Programming zens of the town included bowling, basket- ball, swimming, Friday night socials and Wednesday matinee tickets to “The Big floor hockey. A Saturday night skiing and Apple Circus” for 70 seats at City Hall Plaza, Winter boarding program was held at Wachusett Boston. The department offered tickets to With the arrival of winter came a wide range Mountain, which included approximately 40 the “Harlem Globe Trotters” at the TD of basketball programs for the citizens of middle and high school student participants Banknorth Garden. We also offered group the town. Kids Just Love Crafts, an arts & for six consecutive weeks. In conjunction rate tickets to “Lord of the Dance” and crafts program for 2- to 4-year-olds, was with the Watertown High School girls varsity “Spring Awakening” at the Opera House in held once again at the Watertown Boys & program, the department assisted with Boston. We also offered an evening with Girls Club. The department also expanded enrollment for a free program “Learn to “Lego Playland” for children 5 to 10 years its pre-K Sports Program to include a third Skate” and “Learn to Play” at the John A. old at the Hosmer School cafeteria. We winter session. This program included soc- Ryan Arena. The new High School Dodge continued the High School Dodge Ball cer and “T” ball and was held on Mondays Ball Program at the Hosmer was held on Program through the spring months for two and Thursdays at the Boys & Girls Club. Thursday evenings for over 80 high school evenings a week at the Watertown High students. Last February, we also offered School gymnasium. “Disney on Ice” tickets at group rates for our families. Summer The department conducted a Summer Playground Program at the Arsenal, Bemis, Filippello and Victory Field Parks. The activ- ities on the playgrounds included arts &

Wachusett Mountain Ski/Ride Program 2009

The department’s elementary school basket- ball program held practices at the Cunniff, Girls Softball 2009 Lowell and Hosmer Schools during the week in the afternoon. Our Saturday morn- ing floor hockey program was also played at Cool Break at Pequossette 2009

55 crafts, baseball, basketball, tennis, track & Revenues and field, softball, rag ball, whiffleball and more. Other Activities Playground field trips were taken to various Revenues from programs and other sources locations including “Fun Time,” a golf totaled over $185,498.50. These monies course, driving range and go-carts. Youth were used to fund many of the department’s tennis lessons were given at the Mary programs. The income from permits to use Williams Tennis Courts at Victory Field with Arsenal Park in 2009 totaled $23,407.00. over 100 children taking part. Watertown’s Permit and picnic fees for the other parks Annual Little League All-Star Baseball Games in town totaled $19,806.00. took place on Independence Day at O’Connell Field. Flag Tag Football The department worked with many groups and individuals to arrange for field use throughout the town during 2009. Fall Over 2200 park permits were issued to Flag-tag football, soccer, and mini-basket- groups such as Watertown Youth Soccer, ball programs were offered to the elemen- Watertown Youth Baseball, Watertown Babe tary school students this past fall. Drop-in Ruth Baseball, Watertown Pop Warner gym programs were held at the Watertown Football, Watertown American Legion Middle School on Friday evenings for the Baseball, Watertown Youth Lacrosse, students in grades 6 through 8. Two pre-K Watertown School Department, Watertown sports programs were conducted as part of Men’s Softball League and the Over-Forty Men’s Summer Basketball League 2009 our fall programming. This program intro- Baseball League. Permits were also issued duced three- to five-year-old children to “T” to many church groups, scout groups, civic For the 41st year, Pequossette Summer ball and soccer. Programs for our special- organizations, businesses and residents so Recreation Program was an integral part of needs population were also conducted dur- they could schedule activities at the town’s this summer’s activities for the youth of ing this time of year. The activities included parks. The department also issued hun- Watertown. The camp runs four two-week socials, field trips and many sports. The fall dreds of permits for picnics and parties at sessions for youngsters aged 4 to 14. On baton session commenced in October and Arsenal and Filippello Parks, as many peo- average there were 200 campers at each ended before the holidays. Our 2nd and ple enjoy the beautiful grounds of these two session. The daily activities include music, 3rd grade after-school basketball programs areas. arts & crafts, playground games, sports, at each of the elementary schools had 125 ping-pong, foosball and gym play. The students participating beginning in early The Watertown Recreation Department youngsters also went to the state’s Dealtry October. This past fall some 43 youngsters would like to thank all the Town depart- Pool to swim and cool off, to Arsenal Park and four families purchased passes for a ments for their assistance over the past for cookouts and the sprinkler and other six-week ski/riding program at Wachusett year. Without their help and that of many of varied field trips. There were camp sleep- Mountain slopes. The department provided our fine citizens, we would not be able to overs for the older children, one of which 50 group rate tickets to “Ringling Bros. & provide the town’s people with anything was held on the grounds of the Watertown Barnum Bailey Circus” at the TD Garden. near the programs they deserve. We would Middle School. Family Nights and Talent We had 65 girls participate in our basket- also like to thank the Town Council and the Shows also added to summer entertain- ball clinic on Friday evenings for five Town Manager for their support of the ment of many of the town’s residents. The weeks. Recreation held an after-school many capital projects that have been com- department owes a special thanks to the youth fall tennis program at Victory Field pleted and those in the planning stages. Watertown School Committee for its support tennis for 40 elementary schoolchildren. These projects will greatly enhance our of the Pequossette Summer Recreation town parks and make Watertown a better Program. place to live and play. Summer Basketball Leagues were played at Respectfully submitted, Saltonstall courts and Watertown Boys & Peter Centola Girls Club gymnasium. The Irish National Director of Recreation Teams and representatives from members of the Summer Men’s Basketball League played this summer in a fun event. Hundreds of people participated in the program as play- ers and/or spectators. 56 Library

Mission Statement the vacancy and was elected. Tim Tracy was Lisa Steele, Robert Hastings, Bernadette Watertown Free Public Library fulfills the also elected in November. Castellanos, Grace LeBlanc, and Ann Dobrient. informational, cultural, and recreational The original agreement for café services needs of the community by providing ended in 2009, and, according to purchas- Adult Department access to a wide variety of popular and ref- ing regulations, must be publicly advertised. erence materials, resources, services, and The Trustees awarded the contract to The Adult Department provides collections, programs that extend their personal and Donald Bleech, who operates the café programs and services for ages 21 and intellectual development and that reflect the under the name of Red Leaf Café. over. town’s cultural and ethnic diversity. The Hot, Flat, and Crowded by Thomas staff works to create an environment which Administration Friedman was the title of the second annual welcomes and satisfies the needs of users of The Administration Department consists of One Book, One Watertown community all ages and abilities, and works actively to the Library Director, Assistant Director, and read. The guest speaker, Gwendolyn attract new users to the library. Head Clerk/Confidential Secretary. This Hallsmith, talked about having both a green department is in charge of the day-to-day home and a green community. Several book New Programs and operation of the library. The Library discussions were held in addition to a film Initiatives Director makes policy and budget recom- program by each department and a green • Through a Library Services and mendations to the Trustees. craft by the Children’s Department in which Technology Grant provided by the participants decorated a reusable tote bag. Massachusetts Board of Library 2009 brought a 50% decrease in state aid Commissioners, the Children’s for the library. On the plus side of the Ongoing programs for adults continue to be Department provided extensive ledger, the library received many generous popular. Participants enjoyed the two regu- programming for Tweens (grades 3-5). donations and grants, including a Customer lar book discussion groups as well as the Choice Award from the Watertown Savings scrapbooking and knitting groups. • Implemented computer and job search Bank and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. Our classes are well attended. Introduction classes for adults. David Russo generously donated photo- to Computers and Introduction to Microsoft • Installed our first-ever self-check-out graphs which were added to the library’s Word were held monthly. Introduction to kiosk. digital photograph collection. The Building Excel and Introduction to PowerPoint were • A Middle Kids Club was formed for Committee was very generous with a held every other month. An online job hunt- grades 5-7. $10,000 payment to the Town to pay down ing class was also held monthly. • The Minuteman Library Network the construction debt and funds to improve migrated the public computers to a the library landscaping. Significant individ- Personnel: Dea DelCampo resigned at the different network, providing increased ual donations were made by Joanne end of August and Erin Mackin was hired in bandwidth for both staff and public. Kossuth and Albert Benson, Yang Wang, September as webmaster. Pauli Stern gave • Added headphones to the circulating collection. • All staff and public computers were upgraded to Microsoft Office 2007. • Several grants were received for Project Literacy, including First Literacy, Bilezikian Family Foundation, Watertown Community Foundation, Harvard/O’Neill, and the Watertown Savings Bank. Trustees The six library trustees are elected to four- year terms. In 2009, Trustee Ann Bloom resigned due to health reasons. Anna Kuwabara ran for Comic book workshop

57 Institute of Museum and Library Services. patrons’ materials and program needs were In 2009 alone the grant funded 29 pro- met during the busy summer months. grams serving 426 tweens, grades three Training and continuing education: through five. Jenny Halteman attended the Massachusetts The Children’s Department worked hard to Library Association conference and AV provide programs during diverse times in Equipment Training; Caitlin Browne order to serve families who were unable to attended Internet PR, Grant Writing, Create attend weekday events. We sponsored Lists through MetroWest and Mock events every Saturday the library was open Caldecott; Aimee Lambert attended Rick as well as regular evening and afternoon Riordan Fantasy workshop, AV Equipment programs. These programs included: story- Training, and Cooking with Kids. times, book discussions, crafts for all ages, music for the young and games for tweens. Circulation Department Because of these changes we saw an The Circulation Department staff are increase in program attendance. This year responsible for checking out all library Self-check kiosk we sponsored 248 programs with 11,830 materials to patrons. They also check in total attendance. all materials coming back to the library, birth to Ian Jeffrey Stern and returned to In addition to increasing availability of pro- process all materials going and coming the reference desk in August after six from other libraries, and deal with overdue months of maternity leave. grams we tried to provide more diverse programming including African Drumming, and other reports. Children’s Department Haiku workshop, and storytellers sharing The number of items loaned out to patrons The Children’s Department provides collec- original tales from around the world. continues to rise – circulation increased by tions, programs and services for ages 0-11. The theme for this year’s summer reading over 17% in 2009. In order to deal with larger numbers of items passing through The Children’s Department worked on program was “Starship Adventure at your Library.” After reviewing previous summer the department, various areas were keeping the collection up-to-date and con- rearranged and the hold shelf area was nected to our patrons’ school assignments programs the Children’s Department chose to focus on programs and readers advisory. expanded to accommodate more items. The and recreational interests. This year nonfic- staff is working hard to process items as tion saw a major weeding and was updated To provide better readers advisory we cre- they come in from other libraries and the with specific attention in areas of science, ated booklists divided by grade, with cur- goal is a 24-hour turnaround. history, and special interests. Our popular rent fiction and nonfiction, which included series collection, totaling 60 separate various genres and reading levels. In addi- In November, our first-ever self-checkout series, was updated to ensure all sets had tion we also created book displays to help machine was installed, allowing patrons to copies of each title and multiples where patrons who wanted a larger and faster charge out materials themselves. We pur- interest required. Both the fiction and pic- selection. chased a barcode duplicator which will ture book collections were evaluated for allow us to have all of the item barcodes condition of classics and popular authors. We sponsored programs for all ages over placed where the self-checkout machine The department also created a new collec- the summer including storytimes, music can read them. A laptop cart was also pur- tion of nonfiction graphic novels that and crafts for the preschoolers, storytelling, chased, making programs and storage of includes biographies and historical works. African Drumming and puppets for public laptops more efficient. Kindergarten through second grade, and Finally, due to demand, we increased AV Personnel: Theresa Flaherty joined the materials including gaming, DVDs, origami, poetry and gaming for tweens. In total, there were 36 programs with 1,739 circulation department as a part-time Playaways, Books on CD and book kits clerical. and we added a new express collection people attending. of Blu-Rays. Personnel: The department head was out Training and continuing education: Circulation staff attended the following In October we finished a $5,000 grant for 24 weeks for maternity leave. The two remaining professionals, Caitlin Browne workshops: Effects of the Economy on from the Massachusetts Board of Library Stress Levels, Word 2007, Basics of Excel, Commissioners with funds from Library and Jenny Halteman, rose to the challenge, running the children’s room on their own. Advanced Excel, and “Pain in the Brain” Services and Technology Act, a Federal (how the teenage brain works). source of library funds provided by the They did an amazing job making sure all

58 Project Literacy Department 2007. The Minuteman Library Network The Teen Department reaches out to coop- Project Literacy provides classes and indi- migrated the public computers to a differ- erate with the schools. This year, teen staff vidual tutoring for recent immigrants who ent network, providing increased band- hosted 100 middle school students for want to learn English. These services are width for both staff and public. booktalks. They also helped revise the sum- mer reading list, helped choose the “one funded through the library budget, grants, The department continues to explore ways book one school” title, and assisted with and fundraising done by the Friends of to make processing of new items more effi- the 7th grade memoir project. Project Literacy. We are appreciative of the cient so that patrons can find new items on outside support we get to provide these the shelves in a timely fashion. More items The Teen Department revamped the intake important services. are being processed at the wholesale level process used to identify teens wishing to do In 2009, we received grants from the and more items are being ordered and community service at the library in order to Watertown Harvard/O’Neill Community invoiced electronically toward that end. provide as many meaningful volunteer tasks Enrichment Fund, First Literacy, Bilezikian Internal operations are fine-tuned on a as possible. regular basis. Family Foundation, and the Watertown Teen staff updated the webpage and blog on Community Foundation (in collaboration Training and continuing education: a regular basis, often daily. with Tufts Health Plan). The department conducted a workshop Personnel: Part-time librarian Kelly for staff on how to use the meetingroom The program has two components (classes Deneen resigned to accept a full-time posi- audio-visual equipment. Staff attended and one-on-one tutoring) to help recent tion at the Cambridge Public Library. immigrants learn English. The classes are workshops on Minuteman Library Network held at the high school and about 100 stu- reports, Microsoft Work, Excel, and “Pain Training and continuing education: dents participate in classes from beginner in the Brain” (a workshop about teens). Staff attended workshops on diversity, sum- to advanced. The one-on-one tutoring mer programming, and Word 2007. matches volunteer tutors with students. Teen Department There are approximately 200 students and The Teen Department provides collections, 70 volunteer tutors. programs and services for ages 12-20. This year at the Unity Breakfast sponsored A new program was instituted this year to by the World in Watertown, we helped to serve ages 10-13. Called the Middle Kids provide a recognition ceremony for new Club, it provides movies, crafts, and game citizens. Programs that we held for our stu- activities for that age group. Ongoing pro- dents included a program on nature pre- grams including movie nights and game sented by Carole Berney, a tax information afternoons remain popular with the teens. program presented by Bentley Low Income Tax Clinic representatives, a sing-along by Seth Connelly, and a program on housing presented by Mason Sand of Watertown Community Housing. Technical Services Department The Technical Services Department orders, receives, and processes new materials to be added to the library collection. The depart- ment also oversees all library technology. Twenty new laptops were purchased and placed in the collection for loan by the public. The existing laptops were upgraded with additional memory. Headphones were purchased and added to the circulating col- lection. All staff and public desktops and laptops were upgraded to Microsoft Office Teen game night

59 Statistics Attendance Attendance Irish Folktales 42 Book Group 0 Attendance at Programs: Tempo Time 87 Tween Gaming 10 Number of Family Tech 3 Open Craft 20 Department Programs Attendance Board Games 12 All Ages Gaming 25 Baby Lapsit 19 James Lepler 110 Adult 97 738 Ed Morgan 152 Game Sign-Outs 134 Children’s 248 11,830 Tween Craft 21 July Teen 109 1,351 Book Club 0 Open Craft 84 Literacy 55 1,133 Early Childhood Fair 300 Storytime (3) 171 Program Breakdown Baby Sign 16 Pumpernickle Puppets 173 Game Sign-Out 87 Tween/Button Making 22 Children’s April Games & Snack (3) 56 January Attendance Storytime (6) 341 Toddler Tumble (3) 24 Open Craft 30 Tween Gaming 9 Open Craft (3) 226 Movie Night (3) 13 Open Craft 43 Animal Adventures 115 Storytime (7) 381 Movie Night (3) 20 Tween/Creative Writing 4 My Movie Time 0 Babylapsit (2) 7 Tempo Time 77 Collaboration w/WFN (2) 105 Ed Morgan 67 Rhythm Kids 107 Storytime 66 Family Tech 4 Tween/Frame Decorating 25 Tween Puppets 10 Book Club 0 Games & Snacks 18 Babylapsit 5 Ed Popielarczyk/Magic 115 Karen Chace 39 Ed Morgan 85 Open Craft 56 Tween/Origami 6 Tempo Time 80 Night Storytime 52 Board Game Sign-Outs 161 Book Club 4 Debbie Cavalier 190 August Gaming 16 Tween Comic Workshop 17 Toddler Tumble (3) 41 Family Tech 19 Board Games 22 Open Craft (2) 153 Baby Sign 25 Tempo Time 56 Ed Morgan 73 Game Sign-Out 116 St. Stephen’s Outreach 22 Toe Jam Puppet Band 80 February Game Sign-Out 107 Yetti Frankel/Tween Poetry 3 Movie Night (3) 49 May Games & Snacks (2) 40 Storytime (5) 298 Toddler Tumble 16 Debbie Cavalier 150 Baby Lapsit 8 Movie Night 22 Peter Boie/Magician 125 Open Craft (2) 117 Storytime (7) 341 Tween Science 27 My Movie Time 6 Family Tech 1 Game Sign-Out 180 Tween Gaming 8 Board Games 25 September Collaboration w/WFN (2) 134 Open Craft 36 Storytime (5) 328 Curious Creatures 290 St. Stephen’s Outreach 18 James Lepler 57 David Polansky 160 Ed Morgan 70 Baby Lapsit 6 Tween Craft 13 Tween Craft 3 Hula 17 Ed Morgan 150 Tempo Time 93 Ed Morgan 73 Tempo Time 85 Book Club 2 Tween Craft 1 St. Stephen’s Outreach 10 Tween Gaming 8 Tempo Time 72 Book Club 0 Wee Hands/Baby Sign 3 K-2 Book Club 9 Game Day 26 Board Games 25 Baby Sign Language 15 Game Sign-Out 76 Game Sign-Out 120 K-2 Craft 9 March June Toddler Craft 45 Movie Night (5) 27 Storytime (6) 348 Tween Book Club 0 Storytime (8) 452 Ed Morgan 62 Craft 67 Collaboration w/WFN 67 Tween Craft 12 Faire on the Square 115 Open Craft 29 Baby Lapsit (2) 4 One Book One Watertown Movie 17 Tween Gaming 15 Toddler Tumble 18 PJ Movie 20 Tempo Time 85 Game Sign-Out 173 60 October Attendance Teen (Special Programs) Door Count (Library Visits): 364,413 James Lepler 53 Make Your Own Buttons (3) 60 Toddler Tumble 15 Reference Questions answered in Henna Workshop 15 person, via telephone and e-mail: Storytime (5) 234 Make Your Own Cake Pops 15 Department Number of Reference Flannery Brothers 75 Make Your Own Shrinky-dinks 15 Questions Answered Gaming 8 Teen Read Week Adult 23,633 Wild Rumpus 35 (Books with Bite) 35 Children’s 18,605 Ed Morgan 62 Decorate Your Own Backpack 15 Teen 10,912 Library Science 23 Decorate Your Own Pumpkin 10 Tempo Time 61 TOTAL: 53,150 Project Literacy Movie Night 25 Volunteer Hours: January Baby Lapsit 10 Adult 539 Computer Class (4) 70 Halloween Craft 70 Children’s 67 February Tween Pumpkin Dec. 24 Young Adult 80 Computer Class (4) 59 Susie Magoozy 85 Project Literacy 7,100 March Halloween Craft 70 TOTAL: 7,786 Game Sign-Out 154 Tutor Training (4) 71 November Concert w/Seth Connelly 85 Room Bookings by community Storytime (4) 196 Computer Class (3) 52 groups/individuals: Tween Craft 15 Nature Presentation w/ Room Name Bookings James Lepler 83 Carole Berney 90 Watertown Savings Open Craft 59 April Bank Room 127 Haiku and Card Workshop 2 Tutor Training 14 Lucia Mastrangelo Room 84 Library Science 22 Computer Class (3) 34 Raya Stern Trustees Room 105 Baby Lapsit (2) 9 May Rotary Study Rooms 2,774 Tempo Time 60 Computer Class Intro (4) 47 Children’s Program Room 370 Movie Time 39 June TOTAL: 3,460 Computer Class Intro (2) 24 K-2 Craft 8 Computer Use: Ed Morgan 70 Workshop on Online Toddler Craft (2) 80 Programs to learn English 2 Department Public Logons Books and Cooks 13 ESL Playgroup (2) 21 Adult 59,961 Kristin Kladstrup 25 July Children’s 16,493 Game Sign-Out 180 ESL Playgroup (2) 23 Teen 10,380 December Computer Class 8 TOTAL: 86,834 Storytime (4) 184 August Items added to the collection: Baby Lapsit (3) 26 ESL Playgroup (2) 11 Books 11,040 James Lepler 60 September Sound Recordings 1,237 Open Craft (2) 97 Computer Class (2) 42 Videos/DVDs 2,269 Tween Craft 10 October CD-ROM/Video Games 323 Book Club 17 Class Orientation 110 Other 3,349 Tempo Time 67 Computer Class (5) 85 TOTAL: 18,218 Family Movie Night 24 Tutor Recognition & Ed Morgan 53 True Story Theater 45 Circulation: Toddler Craft 46 Tutor Training (3) 48 Adult and Teen 424,417 New Year’s Craft 24 Movie Event 20 Children’s 210,571 Creative Teachers 85 November TOTAL CIRCULATION: 634,988 Cheryl Melody 130 Tutor Training 12 Super Cold Science 110 Computer Class (3) 37 Tween Gaming 15 December Game Sign-Out 147 Sing Along – Seth Connelly 100 Computer Class (2) 23

61 Veterans’ Services

“Assisting Veterans from World War Two to the Present Wars in Iraq & Afghanistan”

The Veterans’ Services Department contin- • Assisted in enrolling eligible veterans Events ued to assist past veterans of World War and dependents in Social Security, Two, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq Social Security Disability(SSD) and February: and Afghanistan. From veterans in their 80s Supplemental Security Income • Attended training conference – and 90s to those present-day veterans as • For prescription payment relief, assisted Massachusetts Department of Veterans young as 18 and 19, we assisted in a wide in enrolling veterans in the state Services & Massachusetts Veterans variety of areas to include medical, finan- Prescription Advantage program Service Officers Association cial, housing, educational, employment, • Made education Montgomery GI Bill among others. April: referrals to state colleges • Coordinated a visit by the United States Assistance Provided • Helped veterans with job search Army Jazz Ambassadors at Watertown assistance in conjunction with the state • Assisted returning Iraq and Afghanistan High School for a free concert Department of Employment & Training veterans in applying for the full range of • Assisted a student at Emmanuel College state and federal programs they are now • Transported veterans to VA hospitals and in a school project by interviewing local entitled to, include the Massachusetts clinics veterans wartime bonus • Held monthly Veterans’ Council meetings May: • Enrolled veterans in the health system of • Ordered grave markers for deceased • Memorial Day activities…visited schools, the Veterans Administration veterans placed wreaths, parade • Assisted veterans in submitting paper- • Worked with Watertown Housing • Worked with Kraig Gustafson, teacher work to receive service-connected Authority to assist eligible veterans in at Watertown High School in having disability and pension benefits from the obtaining town housing students interview veterans for a school Veterans Administration & DVS • Enrolled hospice-care veterans in VA project • Worked with widows of veterans to apply nursing homes and assisted living • Attended the VA Boston Healthcare for Dependents Indemnity Compensation facilities Annual Awards dinner – invited by a (DIC) and widow’s pension • Continued the World War II & Korean local resident, Olga Vigna, who was • Enrolled eligible veterans and War monthly support group meeting with honored for her many hours of volunteer dependents in state Mass General Law the VA service 115 benefits, which includes financial assistance for needy veterans, spouses, and children • Assisted those eligible in applying for state-funded annuities for 100% service- connected disabled veterans, and widows and parents of killed-in-action • Obtained burial financial assistance for indigent veterans to ensure proper burials; also assisted with funerals for many veterans • Screened veterans with service- connected disabilities and dependents to determine eligibility for property tax abatement under MGL 59, section 5, clause 22a – 22e

Veterans Day Observance

62 Memorial Day Parade

• Attended the Voice of Democracy awards September: December: presented to Watertown High School • Coordinated the annual Patriot Day • Worked with the Watertown Police students by VFW Post #1105 observance at the Hosmer School Department and the Shutt Marine Detachment to distribute toys to needy June: November: families • Member of the Watertown Founder’s Day • Veterans Day activities at VFW Post #1105 • Coordinated the annual Pearl Harbor Committee – assisted in the day’s • Invited to speak about veterans at the Day observance at the wharf at activities “English as a Second Language” class at Watertown Square August: Watertown High School • Attended a dinner by AMVETS Post #41 • Attended a statewide veterans’ to show appreciation for the hospitalized conference at the University of veterans at the Bedford VA Hospital Massachusetts in Boston • Attended the local Shutt Marine Detachment’s 50th birthday gala at the Commander’s Mansion • Attended the annual Stand Down for Homeless Veterans in Boston – two Health Department volunteers, Gail Nordby and Sarah Kinghorn, assisted the homeless veterans with their healthcare needs • Attended VFW Post #1105 awards presentation for social members

United States Army Jazz Ambassadors at Watertown High School

63 John A. Ryan Skating Arena

The John A. Ryan Arena, located at 1 The Watertown Youth Hockey program is High School, St. John’s Preparatory; Paramount Place, continues to provide the also based out of the John A. Ryan Arena. St. John’s Shrewsbury High School, St. residents of Watertown and area communi- Under the guidance of newly elected Peter’s Marian, St. Mary’s High School and ties the opportunity to provide ice skating President Jay Hughes, the program contin- Waltham High School. The league plays its and hockey programs to their constituents. ues to grow, offering something for the very games on Sunday mornings during the high The Arena is the home to many local young in Learn-to-Skate, a full scale Midget school winter sports season. groups. In Watertown, the Arena is the program for high school-aged players. The Other local youth hockey groups that bene- proud home of the Watertown High School annual Ciulla Tournament, named after for- fit from their programs using the John A. Boys and Girls hockey teams. The boys mer Watertown Youth Hockey President Ryan Arena are the Belmont Youth Hockey, team, under the guidance of Watertown Tony Ciulla, was held on Thanksgiving Newton Youth Hockey, and Waltham Youth High School graduate John Campbell, weekend, attracting teams from all around Hockey Leagues. This year, the Arena wel- played an independent schedule in 2009-10 the area. comed the Middlesex Girls Yankee with very successful results. In 2009, the The Arena is also the home to Bentley Conference as well as the Valley Youth boys program continued its growth with the College, Trinity Catholic High School and Hockey Leagues. Both of these leagues pro- return of a full scheduled Junior Varsity Newton South High School. Bentley College, vide games for many area teams including team. Under the guidance of Watertown a Division 1 college hockey program, com- teams from the Watertown Youth Hockey. High School graduate Jamie Venezia, the JV petes in the NCAA’s Atlantic Hockey pro- boys team will be a big plus in the growth The Arena continues to offer Public Skating gram. During their past season, Bentley of the Varsity boys program. The girls on the weekends and continues our offer- played host to Canisius College in their team, under the guidance of Watertown ing of skating lessons during the Sunday first-ever Atlantic Hockey Quarterfinal High School graduate Steve Russo, contin- afternoon public skating sessions. Under Round Division 1 Playoff. Both Trinity ues to grow its program. While continuing the direction of Oksana Olenina, four-time Catholic and Newton South High School its cooperative Varsity team with Melrose, Russian national precision skating cham- play all of their home games at the John A. the Girls JV and Middle School programs pion, these lessons grew in popularity as Ryan Arena. continue to attract more girls to the John A. the season progressed. Ryan Arena. The Girls Middle School team The Arena also hosts the highly competitive Once again, the highlight of the season con- is now coached by former Raider girls Catholic Central Junior Varsity Hockey tinues to be the selection of a host site by hockey player Andrea Ciarletta. The Middle League. This league has participants from the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic School boys team continues to be a suc- Arlington Catholic High School, Austin Prep Association for high school state tourna- cess. Under the tutelage of Coach John School, Arlington High School, Archbishop ment ice hockey games. The MIAA has once Sorabella, the team now sports both an A Williams High School, Bishop Guertin High again shown the confidence in the staff of and a B team that competes with other School, Chelmsford High School, Lincoln- the arena to host these highly competitive middle schools in the area. Sudbury High School, Reading Memorial games. We look forward to continued

64 success and cooperation with the MIAA in Once again, we were pleased to have the The 2009 season was once again a very being a part of their tournaments for the Boston College Men’s Ice Hockey team busy season at the John A. Ryan Arena. With years to come. skate here again at the John A. Ryan Arena. the vision to continue to provide the com- The Eagles are led by Watertown resident munity with a first-class facility, the staff This year, our partnerships with our skate and head ice hockey coach Jerry York. looks forward to serving all of its patrons shop and concession vendors have contin- in 2010. ued to assist the many patrons of the facil- Looking forward to the future, the John A. ity. In the Concession Stand, Frederick Ryan Arena will look to increase off-peak Respectfully submitted, Walker has again been offering snacks and programming in the form of public skating Daniel F. Brothers, Skating Rink Director refreshments to the patrons of the John A. and skating lessons for the younger chil- John A. Ryan Arena Ryan Arena. In the skate shop, we were dren of the community. The John A. Ryan saddened by the unexpected passing of Arena serves the Town of Watertown and its Robert Bergeron of Clean Edge Skate surrounding communities by providing a Services. The John A. Ryan Arena will take top-notch and safe facility. The staff looks over the operation of the skate shop moving forward to serving the community and its into 2010. needs in the future.

65 Department of Public Works

Departmental Overview The department chips take downs on loca- to include the entire length of Pleasant tion and Christmas trees placed curbside Street required an environmental waiver. Administration annually in January. The office staff handles public relations and The project calls for replacement of 11 fire hydrants. The Town will replace nine addi- information, permits, departmental payroll, Highway purchasing, invoicing, accounting, water tional hydrants at its own cost. The Town The Highway division is responsible for will also be planting trees using funds from and sewer billing, commercial trash collec- maintenance and repair of approximately tion billing, cemetery records, funding the Conservation Commission and from 72 miles of town roadway and 144 miles of Stop & Shop. issues surrounding all construction con- town sidewalk, maintenance and repair of tracts and interfaces with state and federal paved areas abutting or contained within Parks agencies. Administrative staff also maintains town facilities, review and issuance of rele- The Parks division handles all maintenance communications with the Town’s contractor vant permits. providing residential trash removal, and needs at 88 acres of Town grounds, parks handles public relations, data collection During calendar 2009, the staff placed 963 and recreational facilities configured in 12 and analysis, and state reporting require- tons of asphalt to repair and maintain road- baseball fields, seven soccer fields, one ments regarding trash collection and ways, installed 745 cubic yards of screened field hockey field, one football field and recycling. loam throughout the town, hauled approxi- two water parks, including picnic tables, mately 2,244 cubic yards of organic mate- cookout grills and public rest rooms. The Cemetery rial to a facility for appropriate recycling, division interfaces with all groups using The Cemetery division is responsible for hauled another 2,744 tons of solid fill to facilities, and accordingly marks playing maintenance of over 30 acres of cemetery appropriate plants for asphalt and concrete grounds for all baseball, football, field at three separate locations, sale of grave recycling, installed approximately 1,200 hockey and soccer games played by high plots, preparation of graves, and oversight linear feet of information conduit in Moxley school, recreation department and youth of funerals at Town cemeteries. Field for the new police station. groups in spring and fall. The division uses the services of outside In calendar year 2009, the division handled Contract Work 116 interments and 14 cremations. Twenty- contractors to assist in parks maintenance The long-awaited reconstruction of Pleasant and turf maintenance. eight graves were sold for immediate use. Street began in the spring. This project has been in the planning stages for upwards of Water, Sewer and Drain Central Motors 12 years and has a current value of $9.3 In 2009, the staff performed 7 house serv- The staff maintains and repairs vehicles for million. Engineering design costs were ice renewals, repaired 40 house line serv- nine divisions, town inspectors and admin- funded through State Aid monies and con- ice leaks, 16 water main breaks, replaced istrative vehicles. Vehicles range from light struction costs of $7.5 million are being 31 fire hydrants, added 1 new hydrant and pickup trucks to heavy dump trucks and funded through state and federal trans- gate valve on Cushman Street, added 7 new related construction equipment. portation dollars. gate valves for hydrants, replaced one 8" During 2009, the Department purchased a The scope of work includes major gate valve on Orchard Street, added 2 new ten-wheel International dump truck and a improvements to the roadway and side- 10" gate valves on Main Street for the new 2009 International service truck. walks, drainage improvements, safety police station and one 8" gate valve on improvements, and new traffic-controlled Acton Street for the new police station, Forestry intersections. All construction meets the lat- serviced 34 fire hydrants for minor mainte- The Forestry division handles the pruning est compliance standards of the Americans nance following the annual flushing pro- and maintenance of our urban forest. In with Disabilities Act (ADA). gram, serviced 160 hydrants for minor maintenance following inspection by the 2009, the division removed 97 street trees, The work spans from the Waltham city line Fire Department, installed 200 feet of 10" two necessitated by accidents. Over 120 to Watertown Square and includes Howard water main on Main Street for the new trees were trimmed and 40 stumps Street and small portions of Bridge and police station, installed 480 feet of 8" water removed. In 2009, 107 trees were planted Rosedale Streets for a total length of just main from Acton Street through the park with the assistance of the Tree Warden. under two miles. Originally, the project to the new police station, repaired 4 ended at Howard Street but was extended storm drain lines, rebuilt 67 catch basins, in toward Watertown Square. The expansion responded to 87 house line sewer backups

66 and 76 main line backups, cleaned 10,000 Nichols Avenue and the entire length of of the Town’s curbside collection program feet of sewer main, repaired 11 sewer Nichols Avenue, including the sewer siphon to include weekly curbside pickup of com- mains, rebuilt 7 manholes and cleaned at the intersection of Dexter and Nichols puter monitors and television screens. 2,810 catch basins. Three sewer and drain Avenues. Findings from this survey are The Department of Public Works continued repairs were performed pursuant to our being evaluated by Stantec; based on their its mercury collection program. Items Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination recommendations construction documents accepted at the department include thermo- Program (IDDE) with the EPA. will be drawn up in the spring of 2010 for stats, thermometers, button cell batteries lining or replacement. Meeting the ever-increasing reporting and mercury switches. Digital thermome- requirements of the EPA, DEP and MWRA Projects being prepared for bid this con- ters are available for free in exchange for for drinking water, sanitary sewer and struction season include replacement of mercury thermometers. Straight, circular, storm water is always a challenge. In 2009, the siphon chamber top at Arlington and U-shaped and compact fluorescent bulbs the staff performed the annual six-week Crawford Streets with a precast concrete are being accepted at Coolidge Hardware in program of hydrant and water main flush- top, replacement of the 10" water main on cooperation with the Town under the same ing and conducted weekly drinking water Main Street from the new police station to program for mercury diversion. quality sampling, entailing more than 520 Rosedale Road, sealing and epoxy coating The sale of compost bins continued at an samples over the course of the year, of various sanitary sewer manholes and accelerated rate, and the department held inspected and sampled river outfalls for replacement of the 6" water main on another highly successful event for the sale quality of the Charles River, continued our Spruce Street from School Street to Lincoln of rain barrels with total sales of approxi- programs for TV inspection of sewer and Street. mately 50 barrels. drain lines, conducted two annual rounds The department also continues its GIS/data of sampling for lead in drinking water at Recycling Center operations continue to system upgrades to rescan updated water residences and public and private schools, operate on an interim basis in an area and sewer tie/locations cards, continuing and continued our program of inspection abutting the former Recycling Center. As the also with training for employees on use of of backflow prevention devices in compli- department continues to search for a per- information previously scanned. ance with standards of the Massachusetts manent site to relocate the operations, col- Department of Environmental Prevention The staff conducts an enormous number lections continue successfully, increasing (DEP). Staff also conducted the biennial of inspections for private contractors, Town volumes over those collected in the past. leak detection program in concert with the road and construction projects and large- Massachusetts Water Resources Authority scale private development projects through- Environment (MWRA). out the town, approves and enforces Most unfortunately, Faire on the Square, permits for utility work and for new state The division continues its development of which is a valuable opportunity to annually regulations for the trenching permits. the water system study along with its con- distribute brochures and share our mes- sultant, Stantec. This study will enable the sage with the public, was cancelled due to department to prioritize water mains in Water Billing weather conditions. need of replacement, optimization of the The staff continued its successful 2008 hydraulic characteristics of our distribution transition to quarterly billing which dou- Personnel Corner system using funds from the MWRA Local bled the reading and administrative work- 2009 saw the retirements of longtime staff Pipeline Assistance Program (LPAP) and load from two annual bills per account to members Frank Cerrati, Supervisor of Town capital improvement monies. four annual bills per account. Parks, Forestry and Cemetery, and John LaRose of the Highway Division. Water division personnel who hold drinking Site Review Process water distribution licenses continued their Department staff conducted plan reviews, education requirements to obtain the nec- inspections, and meetings with project pro- essary amount of Continuing Education ponents for major construction projects Units (CEUs) prior to the license renewal within the town. deadlines at the end of calendar 2009. With the assistance of its consultant, the Recycling department completed the sewer survey, Recycling has been enjoying renewed inter- cleaned and TV inspected the system on est in both private and public domains. Boylston Street from School Street to Calendar 2009 opened with the expansion

67 Police Department

Bureau of Administrative the department to send our police/fire dis- we are no longer able to continue this pro- Services patchers to additional enhanced training. gram as well as the RAD (Rape Aggression We also received a State 911 incentive and Defense) program. We were also forced to After a long wait, 2009 saw the beginnings support grant. This grant can be used to cease operation of several programs con- of a new station for the police department. purchase dispatch support equipment to ducted at the Watertown High School It is hoped that the department will be able improve and enhance our abilities to per- including the Fitness Gym and Law Class. to move into its new facility by the spring of form this service. 2010. Construction is proceeding forward The Watertown Police Department is and the department thanks the citizens of The department continued its collaboration accredited by the Massachusetts Police Watertown for this wonderful facility. between the Police Department and the Accreditation Commission. Currently, there Edinburg Crisis Center in order to provide are only 24 law enforcement agencies out In 2009, the Police Department received better services to citizens who are experi- of almost 400 in Massachusetts that have our final community policing grant from encing a crisis due to mental health or sub- achieved state accreditation. This award is the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. These stance abuse issues. The department is granted for a three-year period. Due to the funds allow for a myriad of activities to diligently seeking alternate funding avenues severe staffing reductions, the department is bring the citizens of Watertown and the to continue this valuable collaboration. The re-assessing it future ability to participate in Police Department together for improving Police Department also continues to work the accreditation process. the quality of life and combating crime. very closely with Watertown’s Wayside This grant also provided funding for our The department continues to upgrade our Multi-Service Center in order to meet the membership in the North Eastern Middlesex radio infrastructure replacing outdated and needs of our juvenile citizens. Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). This non-supported communications equipment is a regional task force which provides a Unfortunately, during 2009, the Police with new equipment that meets newer FCC number of support services to combat Department experienced severe budget government guidelines and NEMLEC digital criminal activities and domestic or foreign reductions and lost an additional four standards. terrorism. Our department provides sup- police officer positions. The department port personnel for NEMLEC’s Rapid has lost eight police officer positions during Detective Division Response Team (RRT), SWAT, Dispatch, the past two fiscal years. Therefore, the The Detective Division is comprised of the Motorcycle officers, Computer and Criminal department had to discontinue its highly Investigative Unit, Licensing Unit, Juvenile investigations. acclaimed and successful Cops & Kids pro- Unit, Domestic Violence Unit, Drug Unit and gram at the middle school and is no longer The Governor’s Highway & Safety Bureau the Prosecutor’s Unit. Members of the divi- able to expand some programs to high granted the Watertown Police Department sion investigated numerous crimes, initiated school and elementary-aged students. The a traffic enforcement grant to fund several investigations, inspected licensed premises department also had to discontinue other mobilizations, such as: Click It or Ticket; and were involved in programs for juve- successful programs at the middle school, You Drink & Drive, You Lose; Road niles, the elderly, the business community such as DARE, Police Athletic League, Girls Respect; and Impaired Driving. and the general public. with Goals and our new American Red The department received a State 911 Cross Babysitting Course. After conducting department training grant. This grant allows 23 consecutive Citizen Police Academies,

January 2009 May 2009 September 2009 December 2009

68 The Domestic Violence Unit was established Personnel Changes 2009, after 32 years of service, which will in 1992 and investigates over 200 cases a There were changes in personnel of the become effective in February of 2010. year. Detective Kathleen Campbell was Detective Division during 2009. Detective assigned as the Domestic Violence Officer Arthur Coffey retired as the court prosecu- Licensing Unit in October of 2008. In addition, the unit tor. Detective David Collins was assigned as In order to encourage cooperation between provides legal advice, support and assis- court prosecutor, and Officer Ken Delaney the licensees of the city and the Police tance to other agencies, with the emphasis was assigned as an investigator in the Department, with the intent to detect possi- being placed on the safety of the victim and Detective Division to replace Detective ble violations of the laws and regulations prosecution of the abuser. Collins. governing licenses, members of this unit conducted inspections of various licensed However, later in the year, due to budget Prosecuter’s Unit establishments during both day- and night- constraints and manpower, we lost two The Prosecutor’s Unit continued to work time hours. Any irregularities observed dur- investigators in our division. Detective John effectively with the Middlesex County District ing these inspections were investigated and Bartolomucci and Detective Ken Delaney Attorney’s Office. The Prosecutor’s Unit han- appropriate action taken whenever deemed were reassigned to the night Patrol dled over 800 cases in the year 2009. necessary. Division. Detective John St. Onge was reas- The Detective Division has continued to signed from the Southern Middlesex County The following is a report from the Detective work closely with other area departments, Drug Task Force to the Detective Division as Licensing Division for the year of 2009 rela- including federal agencies in the area of an investigator. Detective Michael Munger tive to license applications. These applica- drugs, gaming, organized crime, sexual also announced his retirement in the fall of tions were submitted for investigation and assault, financial crimes and firearms. Our detectives attend monthly detective meetings APPLICATIONS: Processed Approved Denied Susp/Rev where they exchange information with area detectives. These meetings have provided us Firearm Applications with valuable information on criminal activ- License to Carry – CL A 27 25 0 0 ity in our area and also have enabled us to License to Carry – CL B 0 0 0 0 establish relationships with detectives and FID CL C 9 10 0 0 agents from various departments. The NEM- FID CL D 19 19 0 0 LEC detectives have set up an online system Alien Permit – FID 1 1 0 0 where information is shared on a daily TOTAL 56 55 0 0 basis. This tool has been exceptional in Alcohol Applications identifying suspects. One-Day Permits 181 179 2 0 Throughout the year there was a continued Sunday Closings 0 0 0 0 effort to scrutinize reported crimes. This Special Closing Hours 14 14 0 0 strategy revealed that many crimes that TOTAL 195 193 2 0 were reported were unfounded or false and Other Applications that many employees committed reported Auctioneers Special 2 2 0 0 commercial larcenies. Block Party 22 22 0 0 In addition to their normal duties, the divi- Constable 3 3 0 0 sion also conducted alcohol-related sweeps Entertainment 2 2 0 0 aimed at curtailing teenage involvement in Fair/Carnival 6 6 0 0 such activity. Package stores, clubs, and Hackney Carriage 34 34 0 0 restaurants were monitored and youths Hackney Driver 72 68 3 1 questioned as to proper identification. The Livery Drivers 12 12 0 0 success of these operations is a result of Outdoor Concert 0 0 0 0 the educational efforts of this division Peddler 2 2 0 0 directed towards the liquor establishments Raffle & Bazaar 18 18 0 0 and the strong enforcement action by the Road Race/Walk-A-Thon 5 4 1 0 Watertown Licensing Board. Detectives also Solicitor 19 19 0 0 spoke to several civic organizations on the Tag Day 7 7 0 0 topic of identity fraud. Texas Hold’em Tournament 3 3 0 0 TOTAL 207 202 4 1

69 report. The applications were generated by rules that may affect themselves or others Domestic Violence Annual Report the Police Department as well as submitted within the system. The following is a report from the Domestic by the Town Manager’s Office and the In the year 2002, we had the addition of Violence Division for the year of 2009. The Watertown Licensing Board. (Note: The three School Resource Officers (SROs) to domestic violence incidents were submitted totals are an estimate and may or may not our department. Currently Officer Kerry for follow-up investigation including con- reflect the accurate total numbers.) Mitchell is assigned to elementary schools, tacts and reports. Each monthly report The following licensed establishments Officer Sheila Grady-Duguay is assigned to detailed each incident as it had been gener- served suspensions during 2009: the Middle School and Officer Kenneth Swift ated by calls for service, the District is assigned to the High School (currently Attorney’s Office or issued restraining • The Fraternal Order of Eagle served a the elementary and middle school SROs orders. Below are the totals from each seven-day suspension from February 22, have been reassigned to the Patrol Division monthly report. 2009 through February 28, 2009. due to budget cuts). These new positions Police Domestic- Issued • Gordon’s Fine Wine & Liquor of 51 had greatly reduced the workload of the Service Related Restraining Watertown Street served a one-day Juvenile Officer. These officers work in Calls Incidents Orders suspension on April 1, 2009. conjunction with the Juvenile Officer on January 21 6 15 • A Watertown Taxi Hackney Operator issues regarding juveniles. These officers February 17 7 14 served a 30-day suspension from June continue to work together on numerous March 16 9 12 16, 2009 through July 16, 2009. cases in the school and the results of this April 28 3 5 program have been extremely positive. The May 21 12 15 Juvenile Unit SROs have become a tremendous resource June 29 9 12 During the year 2009, this department had to the Detective Division with their assis- July 20 11 12 official contact with 182 juveniles, for vari- tance in a variety of incidents and cases August 35 9 11 ous incidents, with 15 arrested and 16 juve- involving students. September 24 10 25 niles summonsed. October 18 4 12 Detective David Collins had been the Domestic Violence Unit November 4 3 10 department’s Juvenile Detective since 2001. Detective Kathleen Campbell was recently December 20 10 19 Detective Ken Delaney replaced Detective assigned as the Domestic Violence Officer. Totals 253 93 162 Collins before he was reassigned back to Detective Campbell replaced Detective Joseph the Patrol Division. The juvenile Detective’s Kelly who held the position since 2002. Training responsibilities include conducting investi- This department investigated over 253 Detectives attended numerous training gations involving juveniles and working domestic-related incidents, which resulted courses throughout the year in specialized with Juvenile Probation and the Depart- in the arrest of 93 individuals. This depart- areas of law enforcement. ment of Social Services. We continued our ment also received and processed approxi- working relationship as a member of the mately 162 restraining orders during this Community and Staff Juvenile Encounter Team (JET), which year. Development Division provides a positive working relationship between the police, probation and the court Detective Campbell monitors all domestic- Accreditation system. This program is designed to meet related incidents, conducts follow-ups and Due to Fiscal Year 2010 staff reductions at-risk juveniles in their home, school or contacts victims and defendants when nec- and budget constraints, the Watertown hangouts with the intent to give guidance, essary. Detective Campbell also attends Police Department temporarily suspended direction and encouragement (program round-table discussions at Waltham District its accreditation program. The Watertown was unfortunately eliminated due to budget Court on a monthly basis. These meetings Police Department had been accredited for constraints). The Juvenile Officer also are with representatives from the District seven years up until the end of 2009. The attends monthly meetings of the Community Attorney’s Office, victim-witness advocates Watertown Police Department continues to Based Justice (CBJ) group which is a meet- and domestic violence officers from sur- maintain its policy and training endeavors ing sponsored by the Middlesex County rounding cities and towns. Detective and hopes to resume its accreditation District Attorney’s Office, school officials Campbell also publishes a domestic “Hot status once staffing and funding levels are and police officers. The purpose of these Spots” list in the weekly bulletin and replenished. meetings is to share information involving through department e-mail, which keeps juveniles who are in violation of the law, officers updated with current domestic- probation (including CHINS) or school related issues in the town.

70 Department Training The loss of two School Resource Officers and adults on the dangers and impacts of During the year 2009, patrol officers of the dramatically impacted the number of pro- risky behaviors. grams and services that could be provided Watertown Police Department attended 24 In June 2009, the DARE instructors com- to the community. hours of in-service training sessions pre- pleted their program which was provided sented by the Massachusetts Criminal The department has one School Resource to fifth grade students in Watertown. As a Justice Training Committee. The in-service Officer assigned to the high school. The result of budget reductions and the loss of training program has a core curriculum High School Resource Officer works to personnel, a new DARE curriculum was not consisting of criminal, motor vehicle and build relationships with the students and started in the fall of 2009. Although the constitutional law updates, first aid and car- staff, provide a sense of security in the facil- Administrative Community Police Officer diopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as well ity, and provide guidance to teachers, stu- maintains DARE certification, there are no as other specialized current issues facing dents, and their parents. The high school resources available to implement this pro- law enforcement. officer is a member of Students Against gram for academic year 2009-2010. Destructive Decisions (SADD). In 2009, the supervisory staff of the depart- The division uses surveys to measure citi- ment moved to an online version of in-serv- The School Resource Officer and Sergeant zens’ fear of crime and satisfaction with the ice training in an effort to reduce overtime assigned to the Community and Staff Police Department. The survey also gives costs. The online training program is Development Division regularly attend citizens an opportunity to make recom - administered by the Massachusetts Criminal Community-Based Justice meetings – which mendations on how the department can Justice Training Committee in conjunction are a collaboration between school person- improve its quality of service. On a quar- with the Massachusetts State Police. nel, public safety professionals, and social terly basis, 150 random surveys are mailed Firearm training and qualification courses service providers to help identify at-risk to citizens who have had contact with the were conducted for all department mem- youths and provide them with positive alter- department. The department continues bers during the year in 2009. In the spring, natives to steer them away from crime and to receive an overwhelmingly positive all officers attended a field-training course violence, and work with the school admin- response to the survey. istration to assist in obtaining necessary at Ft. Devens, Ayer, MA, where all officers From May to September, the 2009 Weekly services for students. Toward the end of were trained and certified in the use of the 5K Fun Run was offered. The program was calendar year 2009, the Middlesex District AR-15 patrol rifle, 40-caliber pistol and 12- very successful, and the participants were Attorney’s Office added CBJ meetings at the gauge shotgun. impressed with the Police Department Minuteman Career and Technical High offering such a unique program. Statistics Under a grant from the State Emergency School in Lexington, MA. Many high school- revealed that there were 81 unique runners Telecommunications Board (SETB) many of aged citizens from Watertown attend this who participated during the season, 51 of Watertown’s public safety dispatchers have school. The School Resource Officer and whom participated last season. There were received specialized training in various Sergeant assigned to the Community and a total of 227 individual runs. aspects of emergency communications. In Staff Development Division have also begun addition to the aforementioned training, attending these meetings. This meeting has In the summer of 2009, the three School various officers also attended training ses- been helpful in obtaining information about Resource Officers were temporarily trans- sions in the following areas: computer at-risk youths that live in Watertown, but do ferred to the Patrol Division. As a result, no crime investigation, community policing, not attend the Watertown Public Schools. youth programming was offered in the sum- school safety, terrorism, illicit drugs and mer months. However, in the fall of 2009, The School Resource Officer and Sergeant many others. budget reductions caused two of the offi- assigned to the Community and Staff cers to remain in the Patrol Division. School Resource Officers Development Division are members of the and Community Outreach Watertown Youth Coalition. The mission of The Watertown Police Department contin- the Youth Coalition is to enhance the abili- In 2009, the number of personnel assigned ues to offer the Rape Aggression Defense ties of children, parents and the community to the Community and Staff Development Systems program to women who live or to increase healthy decision making and Division was dramatically decreased. In work in Watertown. This 16-hour risk- decrease unhealthy risky behaviors. The September 2009, the division was reduced reduction and self-defense course is free officers regularly work with this coalition to to one School Resource Officer (SRO), one for participants. In 2009, the department’s create safe and alcohol-free programming, full-time Technical Services and Crime certified instructors held two RAD courses, raise awareness in hopes of preventing Analysis Officer, one Webmaster/Crime which were funded with non-Police youth risky behaviors, and educate youths Analysis-Mapping Officer, and an Department funds. The program remains Administrative Community Police Officer. well received and attended.

71 In 2009, the Community and Staff Civilian Personnel – 2009 by using motor patrol, foot patrol, and the Development Division held its sixth Promotions: None use of motorcycles. The Patrol Division Halloween event, “The Haunted Police Appointments: None works in concert with other divisions in the Station.” For this event, the booking and Retirements: None Police Department and outside public and cell block areas of the station were con- Resignations: None private agencies within the area to accom- verted into a haunted house. The event tar- Deceased: None plish the objective of providing the most geted children ages 12 and under. The effective deployment of personnel possible. event was an enormous success; 8 officers Bureau of Field Operations Computer data is analyzed to assist in the and 16 citizen volunteers staffed the deployment of police officers to areas in Haunted Station. Over 400 participants Patrol Division need of police attention. toured the police station. The primary mission of the Patrol Division is to serve Watertown’s citizens through a The Patrol Division, as well as the entire In 2009, the Jail Diversion Program oper- cooperative effort and to protect their prop- Police Department, is committed to ated on a part-time basis. This program erty through enforcement of laws and Community Policing. One of the goals of is a collaboration between the Police highly visible deterrent activities. The offi- Community Policing is to build a partner- Department and the Edinburg Crisis Center cers of the Patrol Division represent the ship between the police and the community, to provide better services to citizens who department’s first response to all emergen- encouraging interaction between the two so are experiencing a crisis due to mental cies and most calls for service. There were that we can solve community problems health or substance abuse issues. This pro- four positions which were eliminated due together. This partnership also allows the gram focuses on creating alternatives to to budget cuts in 2009. community to let the police know what con- arrest, booking, and/or jail for people cerns they have and which issues they feel whose criminal behavior is directly due to During 2009, the Patrol Division responded are important and would like addressed. mental illness or substance abuse. A part- to 22,271 calls for service and or motor Officers receive training in Community time licensed clinical social worker was vehicle stops. These calls initiated inves- Policing and are encouraged to increase assigned to the department and responded tigations and events that resulted in 541 their interaction with the citizens on their with police to citizens in crisis. arrests, 85 persons being placed in protec- respective patrol routes. Officers are also tive custody and 328 summonses being relieved of their assignment for a portion All officers continue to assist the Watertown issued. These statistics do not reflect all of of their shift to work with the community Public School System with their crisis man- the officer-initiated contacts made by patrol on various issues and problems. agement protocols. Officers attend regular officers during the course of routine patrol. Accomplishments include a Police Athletic meetings with school personnel to discuss League that has had over 500 youths partic- procedures to prevent and mitigate emer- Heavy emphasis by the Patrol Division was ipate, coached by police officers and dis- gency situations which could occur on also placed in the enforcement of traffic patchers who volunteer their time. The school property. The goal of this crisis regulations in keeping with the goal of “Cops & Kids” program involves police management team is to provide a safe envi- moving traffic safely and efficiently on the officers and middle school students in a ronment for students and to adequately streets of Watertown. Officers and equip- structured after-school program between prepare for a variety of potential emergen- ment were assigned to monitor and enforce the hours of 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm. In cies that could affect school personnel or traffic rules and orders when necessary in 2009, the above programs had to be elimi- structures. keeping with this goal. nated due to budget cuts. In 2009, due to Officers were also assigned to “hot spots” budget cuts, the Police Department was not Sworn Personnel – 2009 for enforcement. These locations are where able to hold any Citizens Police Academy Promotions: None a large number of accidents or violations classes, which give participating citizens an Appointments: None occur, or where there are numerous com- inside look at the Police Department. Each Retirements: plaints by citizens. class is made up of approximately 18 citi- Kathleen E. O’Dette 01/20/2009 zens, of all ages, and is taught by police Joseph J. Casella 02/26/2009 Patrols were adjusted during the course of officers on various subjects including nar- Arthur J. Coffey 03/13/2009 the year to address increased activity due to cotics, criminal law, traffic, patrol proce- George J. Hoffman 07/14/2009 crime trends, holidays, special events, and dures, and deadly force. The program also recreational events at parks and play- included a ride-along, where participants Resignations: None grounds. Patrols were increased during Deceased: None can ride with an officer on patrol to get an peak shopping periods in the business dis- up-close and personal view of police work. tricts of Watertown. This was accomplished

72 This program had been taking place for the amounted to 22,271 calls for service last The Traffic Division also supervises 23 full- previous 12 years before being eliminated. year alone. These dispatchers are also time and 2 part-time traffic supervisors. required to make contact with the Registry These supervisors are responsible for traffic North Eastern Massachusetts Law of Motor Vehicles to obtain vehicle informa- control and the safe passage of schoolchild- Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) tion and confirm warrants on wanted ren in and around the public schools. The Watertown Police Department contin- individuals. In the event of any serious or fatal accident, ues its membership and commitment with the Watertown Police Department Traffic the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Traffic Division Division maintains a team of accident Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). NEMLEC In 2009, the Watertown Police Department reconstruction specialists who are on call is a group of 48 cities and towns that share Traffic Division conducted traffic enforce- 24 hours a day. These officers are capable resources. These NEMLEC cities and towns ment activities throughout the Town at a of reconstructing an accident and determin- have a combined SWAT (Special Weapons reduced capacity of two patrolman posi- ing vehicle speeds and other variables con- and Tactics) Team, RRT (Regional tions due to budget cuts. These activities tributing to the accident. Response Team), a School Threat included enforcement of both parking regu- Assessment Response (STARS) team and a lations and moving motor vehicle laws. The Traffic Division received a $17,000 motorcycle unit that will respond to any grant from the Executive Office of Public member community on a moment’s notice. The Traffic Divisions has two patrol cars Safety and Security. Two “Click It or Ticket” NEMLEC Motor Cycle Unit, RRT & SWAT and four Harley Davidson motorcycles programs allowed the department to con- teams train monthly and are on call to assigned to it. Officers operating these centrate on detecting seat belt violations. NEMLEC communities to assist with emer- motorcycles attended either 40 hours of Two “Over the Limit, Under Arrest” pro- gency situations. In the past, Watertown instruction at the Boston Police Motorcycle grams also helped the department in Police Officers assigned to these units Training Academy, the MBTA Motorcycle detecting impaired drivers due to alcohol assisted the Boston Police Department Training Academy or an 80-hour course or drugs. The final program was the “Road with security for the Democratic National sponsored by the Northeast Massachusetts Respect” program. This concentrated on Convention and the Red Sox World Series Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). road-rage type infractions. Five thousand baseball games and parade. In 2009, the The Traffic Division supervises two Town dollars went to the purchase of equipment. following units were called out as shown employees who are employed as Parking The department purchased two Lidar radar below: Enforcement Officials. The addition of these units with this money. Motorcycle Unit 4 incidents two positions allows police officers to dedi- Traffic officers also install child safety car SWAT Unit 8 incidents cate their time to other police duties. seats for Town residents free of charge. RRT Unit 6 incidents Between January and December 2009, the Officers attend a 40-hour course to learn Tactical Dispatch Unit 7 incidents Traffic Division conducted surveys, studied how to properly install child car seats. In STARS Team 3 incidents traffic flows, and conducted investigations 2009, officers installed 270 car seats. for the Watertown Traffic Commission. The Watertown Police Traffic Division in Public Safety Dispatchers This information was used by the Traffic conjunction with the Massachusetts State There are nine Public Safety Dispatchers Commission in their determination for the Police also conducted one sobriety check who answered over 63,106 incoming phone addition, replacement, or deletion of traffic point funded through a grant from the calls in 2009. The dispatchers answer all signs, rules and regulations. Executive Office of Public Safety and calls for assistance for both the Watertown The Traffic Division also has two speed/ Security. A checkpoint was set up and cars Fire Department and Police Department. radar trailers, purchased with federal grant stopped to check the operator’s sobriety. The dispatchers come under the Patrol money awarded to the department. These This four-hour checkpoint resulted in the Division of the Police Department. They are trailers are portable radar units that display arrest of four individuals. the first point of contact for all citizens the target vehicle speed on a 3' x 3' display requesting assistance or directions from The Traffic Division also received a grant of window. This trailer can also conduct traffic either department. The dispatchers answer 75 bicycle safety helmets from the Executive counts, counting the number of cars that all E-911 calls, which totaled 7,942 calls in Office of Public Safety and Security, Highway pass by, by the hour of day, and recording 2009, and are responsible for dispatching Safety Division, for distribution to Town their speed. This appears to be an effective all fire apparatus and ambulances when youths in need of a helmet or in conjunc- tool in reducing vehicle speed in problem required. They also dispatch all police cars tion with a bicycle safety program. areas where the trailer is set up. to service and emergency calls, which

73 In the Year 2009, the department issued the The department also has a Commercial following motor vehicle citations: Vehicle Enforcement Unit. This unit ensures the safety of the motoring public and con- 31,629 Total parking citations tributes to maintaining the integrity of the 9,504 Total moving citations Town roadways by inspecting commercial 11,797 Total moving violations cited vehicles and their drivers for safety and These include; equipment compliance as well as ensuring these vehicles are not overweight. This unit 146 Traffic-related Arrests consists of two officers who are trained and 359 Criminal Complaint Applications certified U.S. Department of Transportation 4,736 Civil Fines (DOT) inspectors. In 2009 alone, they 4,243 Warnings made over 100 inspections and have cited 66 Operating under/Alcohol vehicles for having a combined total of 246 Suspended/Revoked licenses 113,300 lbs. of overweight commercial 128 Operating w/o being licensed vehicles on Watertown streets. These officers are also trained and certified by 297 Accidents the U.S. Department of Transportation to 246 M/V vs. M/V conduct inspections of commercial vehicles 14 M/V vs. Fixed Object carrying Hazardous Materials. 25 M/V vs. Pedestrian 12 M/V vs. Bicycle There was one fatal motor vehicle accident in 2009.

74 Fire Department

Fire and Emergency Incident One Multiple-Alarm Fire Watertown and an adjacent community, Response in 2009: directly to the fire to assist with firefighting efforts, or to fire station coverage assign- The Watertown Fire Department responded The Fire Department responded to many ments during major fires in other cities and to 4,014 reported fires and emergency calls calls for structure and dwelling fires during towns. for assistance during 2009. A summary of the year. The initial response to such calls those incidents and estimated property is by two engine companies and an aerial Estimated Property Losses in 2009 losses as compiled by the Fire Prevention ladder company, under the command of the Bureau is as follows: deputy fire chief on duty. This initial-alarm Building and structure fires $436,550 response is usually sufficient to confine and Fire/Explosion 54 Estimated Largest Losses in Property extinguish the fire. However, when condi- Overpressure Rupture 4 28 Waverley Avenue $150,000 tions require the response of more fire Rescue Calls 2,569 54 Channing Road $130,000 apparatus, the officer in charge at the scene Hazardous Condition 267 144 Cypress Street $35,000 orders additional resources to reinforce the Service Calls 333 initial fire attack and complete the first Fees Collected Good Intent Call 121 alarm assignment. These additional or Smoke detector inspections $22,215 False Call 658 greater alarms bring additional engine Copies of departmental reports $209 Severe Weather/Natural Disaster 0 companies and aerial ladder companies to Required Permits for product Special Type/Complaint 8 the fire location. storage, or regulated activities $18,131 Total Number of Emergency Annual fees for connection Watertown firefighters responded to one Responses for the Year 2009: 4,014 to master fire alarm boxes $18,700 multiple alarm fire in 2009 for which a sec- Quarterly Inspections $490 ond alarm was sounded. The location of Coverage Assignment/Mutual Aid 138 Total Fees Collected $59,745 the fire and the date of the incident is as Annual Apparatus Response follows: Inspections Conducted by Fire Apparatus for 2009: Date: November 6, 2009 Oil burner inspections 57 Central Fire Station (Station 1), Location: 54 Channing Road Smoke detector inspections 555 99 Main Street: Type of Occupancy: Residential Inspections conducted quarterly: Engine 1 1,467 Number of Alarms: 2 Ladder 1 980 Day care facilities 44 Public and private schools 60 East Watertown Fire Station (Station 2), Mutual Aid Assistance Community residences 20 564 Mount Auburn Street: from Other Greater Boston Nursing care facilities 4 Engine 2 1,223 Fire Departments and Handicapped workshops 20 Ladder 2 439 Mutual Aid Response to Motels 4 North Watertown Fire Station (Station 3), Other Communities Fire Department Provides 270 Orchard Street: The Watertown Fire Department thanks Basic Emergency Medical Engine 3 1,072 the Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Brookline, Assistance Cambridge, Newton, Weston and Waltham Fire Rescue 1 2,131 The Fire Department has provided basic Fire Rescue 2 173 Fire Departments for providing fire scene response and fire station coverage during emergency medical care and transportation Note: Some incidents require response of 2009 when all Watertown firefighters units for citizens in Watertown since 1975. The more than one unit to the scene of the were engaged in fire suppression activities. department has 87 firefighters who are cer- emergency. tified emergency medical technicians. The The Fire Department responded to other remaining firefighting personnel are quali- municipalities in Greater Boston several fied to state standards as Medical First times in 2009, under the established Responders. Metrofire District mutual aid assistance agreement. These responses were to fires All members of the department certify reported near the boundary between annually in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. The department’s engine

75 companies and ladder companies are also and guidelines provided by the emergency Watertown Fire Department equipped to handle medical emergencies. medical region which provides oversight for Receives State Grant The closest available Engine Company is ALS activity in the Greater Boston area. On- The Watertown Fire Department was dispatched with the Fire Rescue to medical going clinical supervision and quality assur- awarded a grant through the Department of assistance calls. Aerial ladder companies ance is provided in conjunction with the Fire Services. The grant in the amount of are sent to the emergency scene when their South Middlesex and North Suburban EMS $10,992 was used to purchase four new specialized rescue skills or equipment is consortiums carbon monoxide meters with calibration needed. September 11, 2009 – gas, two new chain saws for ventilation of Firefighters who are either Emergency structures, 34 safety vests to be worn on Medical Technicians or Medical First Patriot Day state roadways and one rehabilitation fan Responders are also trained on the use of The Fire Department participated in a with misting ring attachment. the semi-automatic cardiac defibrillator. September 11th ceremony to commemorate These defibrillators have been carried on the eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks Watertown Fire Department the Fire Rescue/ambulance, as well as the of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent Receives Federal Grant losses suffered at the World Trade Center, first-responding engine companies and aer- The Watertown Fire Department was the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania. ial ladder companies, for several years. The awarded a grant through the American Apparatus at the Main Street fire station and Fire Department upgraded their defibrilla- Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). the firefighters on duty followed a plan of tors during 2002 to newer models with The grant, in the amount of $207,706, was events recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ enhanced features. The Fire Department projected to be used to maintain staffing Association of Massachusetts and the added a stationary defibrillator in the lobby levels within the Fire Department by avoid- Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts. of Fire Headquarters in 2004. Watertown ing the layoff of firefighting personnel. was one of the first communities in the The Watertown Firefighters Local 1347 Greater Boston area to have these life- Color Guard participated. Off-duty members Personnel Activities in 2009 of the department were invited to attend, saving units available for early response Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll made the to emergency medical incidents. and many did so. The Firefighters Color Guard and Fire Chief Mario Orangio following promotions during the year, in A cooperative agreement with a private also participated in the Community order to fill a vacancy within the Fire ambulance company to provide Advanced Remembrance. Department. Life Support (ALS) service in Watertown was instituted in November 1995. ALS serv- Watertown Youths Appointments ices are provided by a non-transport Attend Middlesex County No appointments to the department were Advanced Life Support unit staffed by two made in 2009. certified Paramedics. Public Safety Program Dozens of Watertown youths and several Promotions The ALS system is a two-tier model. The members of the Fire Department partici- Temporary Deputy Chief Michael A. Watertown Fire Department provides emer- pated in the annual Middlesex County Youth Nicholson to Permanent Deputy Fire Chief gency medical Basic Life Support service, Public Safety Academy in August 2009. The on March 8, 2009. and the dispatch of its ambulance unit to Watertown contingent attended the program the scene upon receipt of a medical emer- during the week of August 24, 2009. On Temporary Captain Stephen P. Igoe to gency call. Watertown public safety dis- Wednesday, August 26, the Fire Department Permanent Captain on March 8, 2009. patchers also send the ALS unit if the nature and Police Department welcomed the boys and circumstances of the reported incident, and girls for a full day presentation of the Temporary Lieutenant Robert C. Power to such as a cardiac-related emergency, are two public safety departments’ operations Permanent Lieutenant on March 8, 2009. within certain guidelines. and capabilities. Other activities were held Lieutenant Russell B. Wiltshire to at the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Training Medical direction for Watertown Advanced Permanent Captain on May 3, 2009. Academy in Billerica. Graduation ceremonies Life Support activity is provided by the were on Friday, August 28, followed by a Firefighter Thomas V. Thibaut to Permanent South Middlesex Emergency Medical cookout for children, parents and staff. Lieutenant on May 10, 2009. Services Consortium through the Mount Firefighter Paul Coughlin continued repre- Auburn Hospital. Patients are treated and senting the department by participating in transported, usually in the Watertown Fire the program. Department ambulance, within protocols

76 Retirements Awards In memory of our comrades Deputy Chief Renato J. Barrila retired from The Massachusetts Fire Service Commission departed in 2009 the Watertown Fire Department on January has established the Massachusetts Fire Retired Lieutenant William F. Walsh III died 14, 2009. Deputy Barrila was appointed a Service Award Program to recognize fire- on January 23, 2009. Lieutenant Walsh was Firefighter on August 23, 1979. He was pro- fighters who have served their department appointed to the Watertown Fire Department moted to Lieutenant on August 14, 1986, to and community for 20 or more years. on April 24, 1968. He was promoted to Captain on January 4, 1990, then to Deputy There is a certificate and distinctive uni- Lieutenant on July 9, 1978. He retired on Fire Chief on February 23, 1993. He retired form emblem to denote length of service December 27, 1992, after more than 24 after serving the Fire Department and the in five-year increments. The emblem is years of service to the department and the Town of Watertown for more than 29 years. approved for wear above the right pocket Town of Watertown. of the dress uniform blouse or shirt. The Firefighter John J. Wiltshire retired from the department is pleased to join with the Fire Retired Firefighter John F. Wiltshire died on Watertown Fire Department on February Service Commission and the State Fire March 27, 2009. Firefighter Wiltshire was 21, 2009. Firefighter Wiltshire was Marshal in recognizing the following mem- appointed to the Watertown Fire Department appointed a Firefighter on August 23, 1979. bers of the Watertown Fire Department, on December 20, 1951. He retired on He retired after serving the Fire Department based upon their completed service as of December 31, 1979, after more than 27 and the Town of Watertown for more than December 31, 2009, as recipients of the years of service to the department and the 29 years. Awards: Town of Watertown. Captain Daniel W. Walsh retired from the Retired Firefighter Richard C. Alexson died Watertown Fire Department on April 25, 20-Year Award on July 25, 2009. Firefighter Alexson was 2009. Captain Walsh was appointed a Chief Mario Orangio appointed to the Watertown Fire Department Firefighter on November 6, 1980. He was Lieutenant Frank Aliquo on April 24, 1969. He retired on July 6, promoted to Lieutenant on May 4, 1989 Firefighter Paul Locker 2001, after more than 32 years of service to and to Captain on February 26, 1993. In the department and the Town of Watertown. February of 2001, Captain Walsh became 25-Year Award Retired Firefighter John J. Maloney died on the department’s Fire Inspector and served Captain Joseph Costa August 13, 2009. Firefighter Maloney was in that capacity until his retirement. He Captain Stephen Igoe appointed to the Watertown Fire Department retired after serving the Fire Department Lieutenant Michael Guerin on May 4, 1942. He retired on February 25, and the Town of Watertown for more than Firefighter Thomas Thibaut 28 years. 1981, after more than 38 years of service to the department and the Town of Watertown. 30-Year Award Deputy Chief Renato Barrila The Fire Department mourns their passing. Firefighter John Wiltshire

35-Year Award Firefighter Michael Mosca

Service Award Program In 2006, the department instituted a Service Award Program in order to recognize the efforts of members of the department in the performance of their duties. No awards were earned in 2009.

77 Emergency Management

Emergency Management • Annual hazardous materials information under the plan were directed by the Town The current practice in Massachusetts and management relating to SARA (Superfund Manager to develop implementing proce- other states is to designate what were for- Amendment and Reauthorization Act of dures for each department, describing how merly known as municipal “Civil Defense” 1986) Title III requirements, response functions will be carried out. A agencies as “Emergency Management” • Clerical support for Local Emergency copy of the CEM Plan is available for review organizations. The Town official responsible Planning Committee records and the during business hours at the Office of the for the Emergency Management Department required Hazardous Materials Response Town Clerk, in the Administration Building. is known as the “local emergency manage- Plan annual review, ment director.” Following the establish- • Other FEMA and Massachusetts Community Preparedness ment of FEMA, the Federal Emergency Emergency Management Agency state Watertown has a designated (uncertified) Management Agency, states have generally and area headquarters clerical tasks, Local Emergency Planning Committee followed suit. In Massachusetts, the which require attention. (LEPC), and a current Comprehensive Massachusetts Civil Defense Agency became Emergency Management Plan. Watertown the Massachusetts Emergency Management CEM Plan would be eligible for federal or state assis- Agency (MEMA). MEMA has encouraged Every community in Massachusetts has a tance, financial or otherwise, in case of an cities and towns in Massachusetts to adopt Comprehensive Emergency Management emergency or disaster. Plan (CEM Plan). The CEM Plan is updated the “emergency management” designations. Watertown established an LEPC in 1988, annually, and is subject to a major revision This practice reflects the realization that as required. The LEPC included the Town on a five-year cycle. Maintaining a current community preparedness under civil Manager (as chairperson), the police and CEM Plan is essential to the community’s defense guidelines has evolved to emer- fire chiefs, the DPW superintendent, the ability to respond to emergencies that can gency preparedness and management health director, and the planning director. and do occur. efforts during and following natural and The committee also included “emergency man-made emergency events. Those The revised Emergency Management Plan planning coordinators” of facilities that include hurricanes, winter storms, haz- for Watertown provides a framework were required to report amounts of certain ardous materials incidents, and now, unfor- wherein the community can plan and per- hazardous materials if stored or used at tunately, terrorism incidents. Both FEMA form their respective emergency functions their sites. The LEPC was required to and MEMA also recognize that municipali- during a disaster or emergency situation on develop a hazardous response plan, and ties deal with these emergencies through the local, state or national level. did so. There is a requirement for the plan the efforts of their existing public safety, to be reviewed annually by members of the public works and public services depart- The Comprehensive Emergency Manage- LEPC. The Town does so. Annually in ments. Cities and towns maintain their ment Plan combines the four phases of March, the Town receives “Tier Two” inven- usual municipal operating structure, and emergency management: tories from facilities required to report the can request needed state and federal presence of certain hazardous materials resources through contact with MEMA area 1. Mitigation: Those activities that eliminate or reduce the probability of disaster; during the previous year. Those reports are and state headquarters. MEMA considers incorporated into an annual update, now the point-of-contact official to be the local 2. Preparedness: Those activities which known as Section Five: Hazardous emergency management director. governments, organizations, and individ- Materials, of the CEM Plan. uals develop to save lives and minimize Emergency Management damage; The original focus of the LEPC was to be on Activities transportation emergencies involving haz- 3. Response: Those activities which prevent In Watertown the Fire Chief is currently the ardous materials. Transportation modes are loss of lives and property and provide shipment by rail, highway, maritime vessel, emergency management director. The Fire emergency assistance; and Department principal account clerk per- aircraft and pipeline. At about the same forms necessary emergency management 4. Recovery: Those short- and long-term time, the Massachusetts Hazardous clerical assignments. The projects and cler- activities that return all systems to nor- Materials Response Team concept was ical assignments in 2009 included: mal or improved standards. developed. There are now six Regional Hazardous Materials Response teams estab- • Maintaining the town’s Comprehensive The plan was written in accordance with lished, and available to respond to any Emergency Management Plan (CEM existing federal, state and local statutes. community in the state. Team members are Plan), Department heads assigned a responsibility career firefighters from fire departments

78 throughout Massachusetts. Team members meetings, conferences and seminars • In August of 2009, the Watertown are certified as hazard materials techni- during 2009. Emergency Management Coalition (EMC) cians after completing a 160-hour training Sheltering Subcommittee assisted the • The local emergency management course. Team members complete a mini- Town in training for and opening a director attended monthly Emergency mum of 80 hours recurrent training small-scale shelter at Watertown High Management Directors’ meetings held annually. The Town’s current hazardous School. This drill was instrumental in at MEMA Region 1 Headquarters in materials plan calls for the response of the identifying resource requirements for Tewksbury. Massachusetts HazMat Regional Response potential shelter openings in town. • The Board of Health has developed Team when circumstances dictate. • The EMC continues work on upgrading plans to initiate and staff Emergency the Town’s website with the creation Although the designated members of Dispensing Sites (EDS) in Watertown. In of an Emergency Management/ Watertown’s LEPC do not often convene for- order to facilitate activating these sites, a Preparedness sub-page that will provide mally, the members nonetheless meet regu- special medical equipment trailer was valuable public information to our larly as part of the Town Manager’s staff. purchased to carry supplies needed to residents. They work together at incidents when and stock these sites. as necessary, and communicate with one • The Logistics Subcommittee of the • National Incident Management System another as necessary. EMC worked on storage options for (NIMS) training was continued and Emergency Management supplies and completed by required departments, in The Town continued its membership in the identified space within the Cunniff compliance with the NIMS Program. The Battle Road Emergency Planning Council. School, which was graciously offered by emphasis this year was increasing the The Council is comprised of the following the School Department, for this storage. towns: Arlington, Bedford, Belmont, level of Incident Command training. The Town will continue to seek any appro- Burlington, Lexington and Watertown. Training was held within the Town and priate grants for training and equipment Additionally, the cities of Brookline and senior officials participated in advanced relating to emergency preparedness that Newton have applied for membership. The classes throughout the state. may become available through federal or regional council meets monthly with a goal • In December of 2009, the Battle Road state sources. of assisting member communities in times Group used an actual event, a gasoline of emergency/disaster by a sharing of tanker rollover on Rt. 128 in Lexington, resources. as a drill for the group. The Town participated in an After Action Report Because of increased emphasis on home- (AAR) review of the incident and how land security and emergency planning, the member communities worked Town officials have participated in several together.

79 Community Development and Planning

Community Development • Administration of various community During 2009, the Zoning Board of Appeals & Planning Division development programs and grants such heard and acted on 27 petitions, in accor- as the Small Cities, Home Improvement dance with the provisions of M.G.L. c. 40A The Department of Community Loan Program, the federal HOME and the Watertown Zoning Ordinance Development & Planning was created program. (WZO). The petitions included: 9 Special through a vote of the Town Council in Permit Applications; 15 Special Permit August 1982. The department provides • Initiation and administration of Finding Applications; 6 Variance Applications a formal relationship and coordination economic development policies and and 3 Amendments. Total fees collected for between several boards, commissions and procedures which will allow Watertown all petitions: $8,260. committees such as the Planning Board, to remain competitive in retaining and Board of Appeals, Historical and Conser- attracting investment to provide for Petitions before the Board are generally for vation Commissions, Historic District revenue and employment growth. residential properties involving building Commission, Housing Partnership, the Planning Board additions and upgrades. However, a few Facilities Inspection and Zoning projects that were of interest are listed During 2009, the Planning Board reviewed Enforcement Divisions, and the Planning below: and made recommendations on numerous and Community Development Office. Each residential and commercial development entity is accorded professional and support 175 North Beacon Street – Perkins projects. The Board reviewed a total of 9 services by department employees. The aim School for the Blind – Steven M. Special Permit requests, 8 Variance of integrating these related agencies is to Rothstein, President. The Board approved requests and 15 Special Permit Finding improve communication and coordination the construction of a three-story, 53,786 sf requests. The Planning Board also reviewed and to provide services more efficiently to academic/school building on its expan- 3 Amendments to Special Permit Finding the community. sive 33.7-acre campus. Included in the requests, Special Permit requests, and plans are upgrades to the Lower School/ A summary report of the department’s Amendments to Variances. residential building; the removal of two cot- major accomplishments for the year 2009 tages and various site improvements – relo- The Planning Board members include its is as follows. cation of the westerly 108-space parking Chairman, John B. Hawes, and members G. lot; new drop-off area; reconfiguring the Jack Zollo, Linda Tuttle-Barletta, Jeffrey W. Planning & Community existing north parking lot; and the opening Brown, and Fergal Brennock. Development Division of a second vehicle access drive from North The division serves several important func- The Planning Board staff consists of Steve Beacon Street. Magoon, Community Development & tions within the department and the Town, 32 North Beacon Street/71 Arsenal Planning Director; Danielle Fillis, Senior among them is the following: Street: United Cerebral Palsy of Metro Planner; and Ingrid Marchesano, Clerk to Boston, Inc., will raze the existing head- • Staff support to the Planning Board and the Planning Board. the Housing Partnership; quarters building and construct a new office building on the same footprint of • Representation on several state and Zoning Board of Appeals the same site. regional agencies including Metropolitan Harry J. Vlachos has served as Chairman of Area Planning Council, MBTA Advisory the Board for the 2008–2009 terms and 165 Grove Street & 105 Coolidge Hill Board, and the Mystic River Municipal will continue to serve as Chairman for the Road – Mount Auburn Cemetery. The Committee; 2009–2010 terms. Melissa M. Santucci Board approved the cemetery use of the • Coordination of real estate develop - continues to serve as Clerk for the term 105,193 sf parcel of land, formerly occu- ment activities, land-use planning, 2009–2010. The remaining members of the pied by Aggregate Industries, for its opera- transportation, housing and related board are: Stuart J. Bailey, Deborah Elliott tions facility with nursery and storage of its policies; and Alternate Members David Ferris and landscaping material. Suneeth P. John. The Board has one • Coordination of the Town’s capital 118–120, 132 & 140 Pleasant Street: vacancy for a full member. Support Staff improvements; Owner Claudio Coppola sought approval to includes Nancy Scott, Zoning Enforcement raze the existing repair garage and three- Officer and Louise Civetti, Clerk to the family dwelling to construct a four-story, Board. 48-unit residential rental building with 96 parking spaces. Mr. Coppola requested and

80 received approval to Withdraw without New Commercial: Inspector of Plumbing/Gas Prejudice his petition. Board heard and (2) Number of Plumbing Permits Issued: approved a separate request for an Plumbing 485 Raze: expansion of the owner’s landscaping Gas 377 business and further allowed Landscape (5) Single Family Collaborative, also a landscape business, (2) Commercial Inspections Made: to occupy the site with associated nursery/ (4) Garages Plumbing 596 planting area. Gas 428 Inspector of Wires Fees Received from Zoning Enforcement Officer Permits Issued 533 Plumbing/Gas Permits: $34,616 In the course of the year, the Zoning Officer Inspections/Re-inspections 1,200 reviewed 707 building permit applications; Inspections for Occupancy Permits 79 Conservation Commission 85 occupancy applications, and 42 sign applications. There were 21 driveway exten- Complaints Investigated 26 Members: sions and/or new driveway approvals. The Fire Investigations 12 Marylouise Pallotta McDermott, Chairman Zoning Officer attended eight Zoning Board Electrical Layouts for Town and Charles C. Bering meetings including executive sessions. The Contractors 14 Leo G. Martin Zoning Officer worked closely with the Electrical Violation Letters 22 Louis M. Taverna Community Development Director and the Patrick Fairbairn Department of Public Works (DPW) on Electrical Violations: Maria P. Rose driveway permitting with respect to the Residential 20 Christopher J. Hayward, Conservation Agent DPW’s project on new sidewalks and roadways. Commercial 2 The Conservation Commission reviewed Inspectional Division Petitions Checked/Approved for seven Notices of Intent for the following Town Council from NStar/NE Tel 4 projects: Inspector of Buildings Meetings: Perkins School: Three Notices of Intent Building Permits Issued 677 Consultations & information with were submitted in 2009 for the Perkins Occupancy Permits 79 Town Residents 38 School. Sign Permits 40 NStar 6 • Pond Restoration – Project consisted of Certificates of Inspection 88 New England Telephone 14 vegetation clearing and dredging. Trench Permits 53 Electrical Inspectors 20 • Gate Valve Installation – A damaged gate Complaints Investigated 20 Traffic Commission 10 valve that allows storm water overflow from the pond to be released to the Total Estimated Cost Street Light outage and follow-up 6 Charles River was repaired. This project of Construction: $36,835,499 Fire Inspector 12 was proposed in anticipation of Residential 17,602,186 Fire Alarm Inspections 12 renovations to the school’s campus. Commercial 19,233,313 Town Council 0 • Education park around pond – New Residential: Planning Board 10 Improvements to the area around the pond were proposed such as a board- (2) Single-family residences Fees Collected $84,090 walk, stone dust walking paths and new (3) Two-family residences plantings were proposed. The goal of (4) Multi-family the project is to allow the students to (7) Unit buildings interact with the natural environment (6) & (14) Units safely. (5) Units

81 140 Pleasant Street: A four-story, 48-unit Historical Commission Environmental Preservation Award apartment complex was proposed. The Bell Tower Place–444 Mount Auburn & project was denied by the Planning Board, Members: 250 School Streets, Karnig Ostayan, therefore it was not decided upon by the David J. Russo, Jr., Chairperson Phoenix Construction Group Conservation Commission. Marilynne Roach For the adaptive reuse of the former St. J.B. Jones Theresa Church (1927) and Rectory build- Watertown Yacht Club: The Yacht Club Donald S. Berg ing (1898). proposed replacing their antiquated boat Susan Steele launch system. The system had been in Community Spirit Award Thomas Malone Roger Hagopian place for over 50 years and was coming to Christopher J. Hayward, Preservation Agent the end of its useful life. The launch system For his lecture presentation of the is most important to the Yacht Club’s ability The Historical Commission continued to Armenian Immigrants in Watertown, to launch and remove boats from the review building demolitions for properties Watertown Immigrants Lecture Series. Charles River. of 50 years and older, in accordance to the Community Spirit Award Watertown Demolition Delay Ordinance. William Marchione Nonantum Road Improvements: The Public Hearings were held on six For his lecture presentation of the Italian Department of Conservation and Recreation Demolition filings. In addition, the Americans in the Greater Boston Area, (DCR) received stimulus money from the Commission reviewed five Invitations to Watertown Immigrants Lecture Series. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Comment for proposed telecommunication Community Spirit Award of 2009 to redesign and improve a section projects and one Section 106 review for the Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Metaxas of Nonantum Road from Galen Street in Watertown River Park Restoration Project For his lecture presentation of the early Watertown through Newton and into and Nonatum Road Improvement Project. Greek immigrants in Watertown and the Brighton. The current road design has been development of their community, the cause of many deadly accidents due to The Commission held its tenth annual Watertown Immigrants Lecture Series. excessive speeds and tight lanes. The pro- Preservation Night and Awards Program at posal was to redesign the four-lane road the Commander’s Mansion in May. The Community Spirit Award to two lanes and add a multi-use pedes- 2009 Watertown Preservation Awards were Mary E. Daly trian/bicycle path. New storm water man- presented for preservation efforts to the fol- For her lecture presentation of the Irish agement measures were also included in lowing projects and individuals: immigration to Boston, Watertown the proposal. Immigrants Lecture Series. Historical Resources Award Historic Resources Award 71 Arlington Street/Sawins Pond: The Charles Morash and Ronald Ohanian Alan K. Earls owner of the land containing Sawins Pond For searching, fundraising and purchasing For the “Yes They Can!” exhibit of photos proposed a 136-spot parking lot on the the Watertown “Boston Post Cane” and chronicling women’s support in time of war north side of the pond. The goal of the donating it to the Historic Society of at the Watertown Arsenal. applicant was to lease the lot. Watertown along with a display case and two replicas to reinstitute the ceremony to Architectural Preservation Award acknowledge the oldest man and woman of Founders Monument Restoration Watertown. Committee: Audrey Jones Childs, Herbert Nolan & Dan Driscoll, Wendy Pearl, Certificate of Appreciation Daedalus Henrietta Light For the restoration and “daylighting” of the For her nine years as a member of the Saltonstall Memorial. Jones Childs’ success- Watertown Historical Commission. ful fundraiser, Herb Nolan for the Solomon Community Spirit Award Fund, Dan Driscoll, and Wendy Pearl, DCR 8. John Horrigan representative, Daedalus, restorers. For founding the annual New England Sawins Pond History Festival.

82 Watertown Then & Now – Spearheaded by Marilynne Roach and working with Tab reporter Chris Helms, the Commission initi- ated a recurring article in the Watertown Tab featuring a photo from the past and one from the present of a building in Watertown. The article includes an informa- tional historic description of the location.

1630-1930 Historical Map by Mary B. Hotz 2009 Architectural Preservation Award – Founders Monument (Before/After) Recognition Ceremony, Faire on the Square Informational Booth and the inventory of The Commission continued the Watertown photographic records of properties to be Historic Plaque Program. For $65 a prop- Then & Now, Corner of Thaxter and Main demolished. erty owner can purchase a 9" x 11" oval Streets plaque, identifying the age, original owner, Watertown Historic District and the architect/builder of their property Historic Landmark Ordinance – Commission for display. The Commission researches and The Commission submitted to the Town verifies the property information. During Council’s joint Committee on Economic Members 2009, 26 plaques were produced. To date, Development and Planning and Committee Harvey Steiner, Chairman 71 historic plaques have been purchased. on Rules and Ordinances the proposed Amleto “Mel” Martocchia Historic Landmark Ordinance which will Linda Sternberg allow residents to nominate their properties Victoria Carter for historic landmark status. The designa- John Hecker tion will provide protection from demoli- Christopher J. Hayward, Preservation Agent tion and some alterations. The ordinance John Hecker was appointed to the Historic will ensure the preservation of Watertown’s District Commission in his capacity as most historic places. an architect. Victoria Carter and Mel 1630-1930 Historical Map of Martocchia resigned from the Commission. Watertown – The descendants of Mary B. They served on the Commission since its Hotz, the Watertown artist who created the inception in January of 2004. Town’s social history map for the 300th Applications for 18 Certificates were Chairman David Russo submitted a collec- anniversary of the founding of Watertown, received for proposed projects within the tion of completed Form Bs, an individual donated the original map and associated Historic District. Eight Certificates of historic survey of a property, of Watertown artifacts to the Town through the Commis- Appropriateness, eight Certificates of Non- properties that he had researched to the sion. The Commission funded and commis- Applicability, and one Certificate of Massachusetts Historical Commission for sioned the preservation of the map to Hardship were issued. inclusion in the Town’s Inventory of archival/museum standards. The Commis- Historic Properties. The inventory had not sion is working to present this map to the In October, Commission staff attended a been updated since 1982. Town in a public ceremony and displaying workshop on Due Process, Design Review the map permanently at a prominent Town and Decisions: A Seminar for Historic Barns and Accessory Buildings Building location for public appreciation. District Commissions and Historic Review Inventory – The Commission was busy Boards. collecting data on barns and accessory The Commission continues to work col- buildings throughout Watertown to devel- laboratively with the Historic Society of op a comprehensive historic survey of Watertown in joint ventures such as the Watertown’s barns and accessory properties. Boston Post Cane Watertown Elder Resident

83 Tree Warden The second Arbor Day event was held at the beetle so that they can be on the watch for Christopher J. Hayward, MCA Lowell School on Friday, May 1st. In the fall it. It had not been discovered in Watertown Tree Warden of 2008, three large silver maples with local in 2009 but informational presentations will historical significance were removed due to continue until it is known that the threat to With an active Tree Warden under safety reasons. A neighborhood meeting our urban forest has been removed. Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87, a was held to discuss plans for removal and tree division under the Department of replacement. The neighborhood decided Commander’s Mansion Public Works, an appropriate annual that replanting new trees in the location The Commander’s Mansion bookings were budget for community forestry programs from where the three originals were stable considering all of the financial cut- and an official Arbor Day observance and removed was not the best idea due to the backs our corporate and social clients had proclamation, Watertown continued to excellent sledding conditions that had been to make in 2009. We continue to book qualify for Tree City USA designation, 17 gained in that location. In April 2009, two consecutive years and running. White oak were planted on the western end During the year, 107 trees were planted. of the school’s field along Orchard Street. Street trees accounted for the majority of the tree plantings, although trees were planted in residents’ front yards when a suitable location could not be found on the street. Continuing with the policy adopted in 2001 to diversify street tree plantings, different trees were planted. The trees Cannon at the Commander’s Mansion planted this year along the streets of Watertown were: Honey locust, Japanese Zelkova, Katsura, Red maple, October Glory repetitive business from corporate accounts Planting of the Lowell School White Oaks – that range from off-site meetings to holiday maple, Chanticleer pear, Ginko, Red oak, April 2009 Pin oak, Pioneer elm, Amur maple, events. When meeting with new clients we Kwanzan cherries, Okame cherries, In August 2008, the Asian Longhorned bee- find that it was word of mouth that brings Dogwoods, Crab apples, Hackberries and tle was discovered in Worcester, MA. This them here. Japanese Tree Lilacs. Following best man- invasive pest has no known predators in Our team consists of Tammy McKenna, agement practice, trees planted under North America and if left alone, it would facility manager; Rae Grassia, assistant facil- power lines were restricted to those that decimate the maple forests of the northeast- ity manager; Charlene McGann, our events will not mature over 30 feet tall. ern United States. Over 25,000 infested manager; and our newest member, Karl During 2009, a total of 103 street trees trees were removed in Worcester and the Neugebauer, our custodian (reducing the were removed due to safety reasons. number will grow. Three informational pre- need and cost of outsourcing a cleaning sentations were given in Watertown by the company). Watertown held two Arbor Day events in Tree Warden. The goal of these presenta- 2009. The first event took place on the tions was to educate the public about the The mansion’s extended hours accommo- official Arbor Day, Friday, April 24th. A date late night appointments; by being open Sugar maple was planted in front of the until 6 pm (depending on events), it allows Administration Building to replace a tree less overlapping between staff members and that had been removed in the past. Town event coverage. The mansion made a few Hall staff as well as residents and passers- cutbacks this past season by lessening the by attended the ceremony. This tree will outsourcing of our events manager and by provide the community with many environ- bringing Karl on board, who is able to tend mental benefits such as cleaning the air of to minor tasks and projects that would have carbon dioxide, reducing noise levels from otherwise been outsourced as well. the street and creating a peaceful, shady The mansion has been approved to imple- area in front of the Administration Building ment an off-season rate during the months during the summer months. Asian Longhorned Beetle of November through April, for Saturdays only, which consists of $350.00 an hour

84 The mansion continues to advertise online with The Knot and Boston Magazine Weddings, as we see a continued rise in Internet and e-mail driven inquiries. We have kept an ongoing barter relationship with CDIA in Waltham. They assist us with our website needs and interior/exterior photos in exchange for photo shoot space. CDIA has helped us implement online tools Back Parlor to streamline the site, make it user friendly, Groom’s Bathroom visually appealing and structuring it for optimum search engine results. The biggest change continues to be the online calendar feature that allows our clients to quickly see if their desired dates are available. We con- tinue to update the site with current pic- tures and information such as the upcoming Wedding Faire.

Cosco Landscape was hired again to main- One of Eleven Fireplaces Dining Room tain the grounds, and we continue to work closely with Beal Management, located Highlights from 2009 & for 2010 within the Arsenal on the Charles complex, regarding parking, security and snow 2009 Improvements removal (an expense that the mansion • The first floor bathroom was repainted, again this year has not had to endure). as was the first floor foyer’s ceiling, the We were happy to have hosted Beal vestibule’s ceiling, the dining room Management’s annual tenant appreciation ceiling, front parlor ceiling, the second luncheon on the grounds of the mansion, floor foyer’s ceiling and the yellow which was catered by Casa De Pedro. room’s ceiling. The work was contracted The end of 2009 brought us cold literally! through Michael Shea Painting in Study The boiler had to be replaced; a new circu- Waltham. lar pump had to be installed and one of • The heating system – see above. with a four-hour minimum versus $4000.00 the coils in one of the units needs to be • We started a recycling and a returnable for eight hours. It was decided that in order replaced. However, we were able to address deposit program with retired veteran to increase business during these months, these issues and implement measures to Andy Giordano with the Bedford VA. we could offer our clients a reduced house avoid future problems. minimum and house rental fee. Since • Karl was able to fix the exterior South implementing, we have seen a slight East side house drainage issue. increase in sales and have fielded many • DPW paved our loading dock. inquiries with positive feedback. The man- In closing, the Commander’s Mansion con- sion’s additional revenue from the on-site tinues to generate revenue for not only tent was adequate for its first year; this is Watertown-based businesses that are con- likely associated with the brides’ budgets as tracted here for events but also Watertown they invited fewer guests and therefore were departments such as the Police Department able to use the interior of the house and regarding details; the Fire Department didn’t need to go outdoors to accommodate regarding candle permits; the Town Clerk’s their guest list. Since the tent was not an office regarding alcohol permits and the out-of-pocket expense to the mansion, it Bride’s Suite Health Department regarding food permits. ended up being a profitable change and one we will continue in 2010. All photos courtesy of CDIA.

85 The Watertown Public Schools

The Schools streamline the curriculum in grades 6-12. Jennifer Montgomery in English, Dan Wulf This initiative is part of the system-wide in mathematics, David Sheehan in social Watertown High School effort to align curriculum across grades K- studies, and Vera Larkin in science, are Watertown High School completed its 12 and to continue to facilitate the smooth working hard to align our curriculum with 160th year of operation in 2009-2010. transition from Watertown Middle School to the high school’s so students will have Punctuating the academic year, 142 stu- Watertown High School. seamless academic transitions, particularly dents celebrated their graduation at the from eighth grade to ninth grade. commencement ceremony in the Kelley Watertown High School continued to pro- Gymnasium on Friday, June 5, 2009. P. vide students with opportunities beyond the Middle school students’ MCAS scores con- Michael Noftsker served his sixth year as school day with a wide array of extracurric- tinue to rise for the fifth straight year. Headmaster of Watertown High School. He ular activities through 2009. The drama Watertown Middle School now scores above and his leadership team of housemasters, department presented the musical Anything state averages with all grades, all subjects, Katherine DiNardo and Michael McDermott, Goes; the Robotics Team competed in its and in all subgroups. Although we were not continued to guide the high school through second season in the First Robotics arena; able to meet all Adequate Yearly Progress the fifth year of NEASC recommendations the girls field hockey team became Division (AYP) standards, we continue to make sub- and coordinated the district and school 2 State Champions; and the boys basket- stantial progress toward all AYP goals. ball team was Division 3 State Champions. professional development programs. We have also received recognition from the Expanding online courses and extracur- Under the direction of Dr. Ann Koufman, Department of Education as one of 36 Title ricular offerings, Watertown High School Superintendent of Schools, the high school I schools in the Commonwealth whose offered more Virtual High School opportu- continues to expand its use of educational Limited English Proficient students have nities in courses ranging from AP Economics technologies with major equipment deploy- made excellent progress. With this distinc- to Genetics. Additionally, Rosetta Stone, ments. Because of resources made available tion we may be able to gain more funding a language-learning program, has been through the technology plan, every class- from the state to share our best practices added in both Italian and Spanish for sev- room teacher at WHS has a laptop and LCD with other schools. projector. These devices are used daily eral of the students. Watertown Middle School also has very within the curriculum for the teaching and Watertown High School is actively com- strong enrichment programs that allow stu- learning process. mitted to expanding technology use in the dents to explore new opportunities that classrooms and beyond. In order to serve As a result of this growth, teachers are inte- showcase their talents. This year we have the students of Watertown, we offer a cur- grating technology more seamlessly into expanded our enrichment class offerings riculum that provides the rigorous educa- their curriculum, submitting period by for 7th and 8th grade students. Students tion needed to foster content-rich period attendance electronically, and con- can take advanced art, band, orchestra, 21st-century learning. tinuing to increase the functionality and chorus, newspaper, robotics, theatre pro- effectiveness of their classroom websites. duction, and video production as electives. Watertown Middle School Parents now have online access to their We are also expanding after-school oppor- child’s attendance / biographical records, Watertown Middle School remains commit- tunities with the help of the district’s new progress reports and report cards via ted to challenging students with rigorous PEP grant. We have a brand new fitness iPARENT. Through the vision of our admin- curriculum and instruction, supporting all center, and our interscholastic sports are as istrative team, the assistance of a task force, students who are having difficulty in school, strong as ever. We also offer after-school and the technical expertise of Webmaster providing students engaging enrichment clubs such as cooking, rock band, commu- Dan Dressler, the High School website was opportunities, promoting a positive school nity science investigators, cross-country redesigned and is updated regularly to keep climate that caters to the needs of the early running, skiing, the mural club, and parents, community, staff and students bet- adolescents, and connecting with parents gardening. ter informed about high school initiatives and other members of the community. We attribute part of our academic success and classroom curriculum. Training is also The administrative team of Principal J. underway with the teaching staff to institute to areas we have emphasized over the past Kimo Carter, Assistant Principal Jason Del five years. First, we have spent much time, electronic grading through iRANKBOOK. Porto, and Special Education Coordinator This process will begin in the fall of 2010. energy, and resources toward attaining Penelope Giannakopoulos is now in its fifth reading proficiency for all of our students The four core curriculum coordinators year at Watertown Middle School. Our four by the time they enter high school. We will (English, math, social studies and science) grade 6-12 curriculum coordinators,

86 continue to teach reading to all middle Real” to help those students who witness teacher and one new instructional assistant school students until they reach proficient bullying and teasing to inform an adult. to our staff. levels. Finally, led by our guidance department, Both our English Language Learner and our peer mediation program is growing Second, we have worked on making our First Language Not English populations con- and our peer mediators are trained to help academic support programs more accessi- tinue to grow at the Cunniff School. Almost students resolve conflicts. ble to our struggling students. Our aca- 15% of students are identified as students demic assistance classes are available to We continue to experience a huge infusion that benefit from teacher support in the any student who is having difficulty in of technology in the school. This year we areas of oral fluency, vocabulary acquisi- school. Likewise, our school-wide binder have received two additional mobile class- tion, and reading and comprehension system has significantly helped students room computer carts. Teachers are work- skills. organize their time and materials. We ing hard to integrate technology into their A Back to School Night/Curriculum Night would especially like to recognize our part- instruction. We are using our wireless presentation by the school principal in late ners at Staples Print and Copy Center for mobile labs to their fullest capacity and we September explored Malcolm Gladwell’s providing standardized boxes of school are now wireless throughout most of the book, Outliers, and how hard work and supplies for all of our students. Our after- building. We will continue to update our determination combined with home and school library learning lab continues to be hardware and software to meet the technol- school support help ensure student suc- an extremely successful option for students ogy demands of the 21st century. cess. During this presentation the princi- who need homework help. Watertown Middle School is making a con- pal used a response system to help engage Finally, we have expanded our services to certed effort to communicate with parents the audience. In October we had an special education students by adding a sub- and reach out to the community. We are MCAS/School Progress Update that outlined stantially separate program for students on increasing parent awareness in a number of the academic goals and trends for the last the autism spectrum. This program, com- ways: automatic phone messages, our new five years, as well as our measurable objec- bined with our learning support offerings, “Watertown Splash” student newspaper, a tives for this current school year. our integrated emotional support services, much more extensive website, and most Cunniff continues to flourish in its use of and our language-based instruction pro- importantly, constant active communication technology. Twenty-four new Dell mini lap- vides a full range of special education via phone and e-mail to parents regarding tops have infused new hardware into our programs that can accommodate most their children. educational programming. The 4th and 5th disabilities. Our emphasis on community service graders now have access to 22 Macintosh Staff, students, and parents are working remains strong. We completed our annual and 22 Dell laptops. They typically use together to provide a positive school cul- Coats for Kids drive last fall. Last spring, PowerPoint, Excel, Word and other applica- ture for students. We are emphasizing our our Pennies for Patients drive earned tions to present information with pictures, mascot, the eagle, along with a simple and over $25,000.00 for the Leukemia and videos clips, VoiceThreads, spreadsheets, concrete “recipe for success”: A Watertown Lymphoma Society. Homerooms have cre- and stills. Students in grades 2-5 utilize Middle School Eagle SOARS (Supporting ated Thanksgiving baskets for families in FASTT Math and Type to Learn. Students others in Success, Ownership, Achievement, need, the school hosted an afternoon tea conduct online research and have learned Respect, and Service). We celebrate student with elderly residents, and students are how to embed information into various success in a variety of ways, including a serving the community in a variety of graphics that allow for strong visual presen- success token system where students can ways to meet their community service tations. Teachers also use LCD projectors earn redeemable tokens when a staff mem- expectations. to present information to students. A ber finds them demonstrating one of the Watertown Education Foundation grant Every day we are striving to make SOARS attributes. Seventh and 8th grade allowed one of our teachers to purchase a Watertown Middle School a place that the students who demonstrate the SOARS tenets document camera which allows her to Town can be proud of, and a credit to the are now able to receive “Eagle Liberties,” immediately share student work and offer whole Watertown community. privileges that are often only given to high constructive feedback and assessment. school students. Cunniff Elementary School Classroom teachers in grades K-3 con- This year we are also focusing on bullying This year, the Cunniff Elementary School tinue to implement a scope and sequence and teasing education, particularly for stu- has 270 students divided into 14 class- in phonics and phonemic awareness. dent bystanders. We are developing and rooms. Hiring was again relatively quiet this Additional strategies are being rein- implementing a curriculum called “Let’s Get past summer. We added a new 4th grade forced by the reading specialists. A new

87 comprehension program is in the intial learn; hardworking by doing our best with Technology resources continued to increase stages of being implemented by the K-3 determination; and, successful by showing at the Hosmer School in 2009. Laptop com- teachers with both fiction and non-fiction what we know and learn every day.” puters were distributed to classroom teach- texts. Month-by-Month phonics and Words ers. Availability of computers in classrooms The Hosmer School has established the Their Way are being employed by the teach- for students has been enriched with addi- theme of “A Caring Community” for the ers. This direct instruction is helping the tional mobile laptop carts for students. 2009-2010 school year. School assemblies youngest students to learn letter sounds, Most of the Hosmer School has wireless will be planned to encourage and celebrate which will help them continue to grow as access, and we anticipate full wireless actions we take to care for ourselves, each emerging readers. Reading assessments are capacity before the end of this school year. other, and our community. So far this year, being accomplished using Reading A-Z, and 5th grade students have organized a food Teachers are using technologies to support students in grades K-4 were given Measures drive for the Watertown Food Pantry and instruction in all academic areas. Focused of Academic Progress (MAP). The data the Roots and Shoots Club has started a professional development enhances our gives teachers the chance to measure and bottle collection to raise funds for the vic- teachers’ ability to use these tools to chart academic growth and provides a tims of the earthquake in Haiti. improve teaching, learning, and communi- roadmap for additional learning where spe- cation. Teachers are using Measures of cific, targeted instruction is necessary and The Hosmer School cares about student Academic Performance (MAP) to assess beneficial. achievement and works collaboratively with reading and math skills, FASTT Math, Hosmer staff and district teams to define The Cunniff has expanded our after-school Reading A-Z, RazKids, and Rain Forest and implement best practices for standards- offerings with Cunniff Kids News. Now in Math. Our faculty continues to identify and based curriculum instruction and assess their third year, students work with both an employ new digital tools for instruction. and analyze student performance data to editor (parent volunteer) and an assistant develop differentiated instruction plans and Building stronger home-school-community editor (Cunniff teacher) to research and programs to meet the needs of all students. partnerships is a district and school-based write stories that pertain to the Cunniff, A Building Based Data Team has been goal. Hosmer had addressed this by institut- the community, and to Watertown. For developed this year to support teachers in ing “Co-Principal Coffees” featuring a full stories and highlights, please visit: using data to inform instruction, which focused topic such as enrichment opportu- http://teacherweb.com/MA/WatertownCunniff includes a reading intervention program nities, progress reports, parent confer- Elementary/Newspaper/H0.stm. for 1st and 2nd grade students. ences, and school safety. The PTO has also All-Star Sports, Chess, Hip Hop, and the implemented a weekly newsletter on the In 2006, the Hosmer School was identfed LEGO Club are all in their second year school website. as a School in need of improvement in of existence. This fall we began a before- English Language Arts according to MCAS With support of the PTO and Site Council, school Fitness Club. results. Over the past three years we have the Hosmer school parents collaborate with The Cunniff School continues to provide an made consistent improvement in this area. the school to enrich school life for all environment for students to excel academi- This year we achieved our adequate yearly members of our community, providing cally, socially, and emotionally. Our multi- progress goal for our aggregate; however, enrichment clubs for students beyond the disciplinary staff works together in a we did not achieve this status for our school day. The PTO has been generous in collaborative effort to provide an optimal English Language Learners. Our Math MCAS their financial support to classrooms, pro- learning environment where children are results indicated consistent performance; viding digital “flip” cameras to the school, successful and empowered in their efforts however, we did not achieve our adequate materials for a 3rd grade “Picturing to grow and learn. yearly progress goal for all students. Writing” program, and books for the library. The early childhood programs across the Hosmer Elementary School district completed accreditation require- The Hosmer School is committed to the The Hosmer School community is led by ments for the National Association for the health, safety and well-being of our mem- co-Principals Anne Hardiman and William Education of Young Children and were bers and our environment. We recycle McCarthy. The school motto defines the awarded accreditation in May 2009. We paper and plastic, and make every effort to expectations for Hosmer students, staff and are proud of the work our teachers have use digital resources for communication to parents: “Hosmer is a place where we are: accomplished to achieve this status. reduce our carbon footprint. We work respectful of ourselves, others and our closely with Safe Routes to School school; responsible for what we say, do and Committee to promote the Walking

88 Wednesday Program. Our physical educa- to “go paperless” has reduced consump- In addition, the IT teacher at the Lowell tion teacher provides a Jump Rope Club tion and labor involved in copying and School is integrally involved in the develop- and Fit Club before school weekly with distribution. ment of our Primary Learning Support pro- parental assistance. gram. The IT teacher plans and works with Class-Based Curriculum, self-identified classroom teachers and spe- Each member of the Hosmer Community Instruction and Assessment cialists to explore new resources, innovate strives to demonstrate respect for learning At the beginning of the school year, the dis- on past practices and enhance teaching and in our diverse community and to be trict introduced newly articulated curricu- learning. This year the IT teacher has also responsible for achieving success every day. lum expectations in comprehension and co-taught some targeted grade levels and fluency. Professional development will con- special populations to expand the reper- tinue to focus on curriculum implementa- Lowell School toire of content teachers. Lowell School Mission tion and effective use of resources. A plan The Lowell School, with the active involve- for the remainder of this year has been put Students in grades PreK-2 made weekly vis- ment of its families and neighbors, seeks to forward to finalize reading assessments, its to the school library. Our shared librar- provide a supportive learning environment, complete vocabulary expectations, com- ian had two days dedicated to the Lowell which fosters academic excellence, encour- plete toolbox with vocabulary materials, (Monday and Tuesday) and worked tire- ages individual and collaborative endeav- reading assessments and reading workshop lessly to maintain our library and develop ors, and promotes social responsibility and resources. We also plan to develop a set of resources, as well as to meet integration respect for diversity. We seek to support recommendations for ongoing implementa- needs of classroom teachers, and directly students in developing the knowledge, skills tion support. The next phase of work in our instruct 4th and 5th graders to foster infor- and attitudes that will serve them well in ELA department is further literacy develop- mation literacy and fluency in print and their lifetime. This requires all the abilities ment through grades 3-5, and shifting the online sources. In addition, the librarian to effectively engage and contribute to soci- K-3 focus from “learning to read” to the has taken on the challenge of working ety as they know it, and the imagination and acquisition of writing skills and language directly with 3rd grade classes and teachers sense of activism to change it for the better. usage. on the “Live Wire” partnership with Fablevision. Who We Are FY 2010 marks the third year of Think The Lowell School’s current enrollment of Math for all three schools and is currently Special Education 384 students has fluctuated within the last being implemented in all regular education In order to serve as many children within three years from about 375 to 402. The classrooms. FASTT Math is in its fifth year the district as possible, the Lowell has school serves PreK through 5th grade. of operation in the system and in its third developed a multi-pronged approach to full year of implementation for students in serving our special education students. Male Students: 207 grades 2-5. The Math Task Force is cur- The critical role of Team Chair Leader is Female Students: 177 rently investigating a Tier 3 math program effective and efficient in managing the for students who require an alternative Special Education: 57 students (15%) and process of meeting all legal requirements math curriculum with an emphasis on “Life 5 non-Lowell students enrolled in special- (laws and regulations) to serve our special Skills.” ized programs education population. The Chair also assists ELL Students: 49 students (13%) with many Educational Technology in the challenges of managing both person- different languages spoken in the homes The 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classes nel and materials responsibly. We are very attended regular weekly technology instruc- proud of our array of programming options Low Income: 95 students receiving free or tion in the computer lab. The 3rd, 4th, and to best serve our students at the Lowell and reduced lunch (25%) 5th grade levels each have a shared laptop the Chair’s leadership in their development Class Size: Range of 16 to 25 students with cart which allows for flexible use during the has been greatly appreciated. The programs an average of 19 students per classroom school day. Students in grades 3-5 access are: computer, web and server-based programs Comprehensive Inclusion Support Administration to foster academic skills, explore concepts Program The Lowell School currently has one full- and create projects. Netbooks provide addi- Our CIS programming has evolved to meet time principal and one full-time school sec- tional access within the learning commons the needs of students with complex needs retary. We do our best to adequately serve and classrooms. the students, families, and faculty and staff requiring substantial, extended periods with efficiently and effectively. A concerted effort a special educator. This program also

89 provides consultation and direct service in Guidance also conducts the pre-referral Many lessons are integrated into the athletic social/emotional and behavioral regulation process. All state assessments, including experience, such as being a member of a issues. proctor training, coordination of accommo- team, setting goals, working hard to achieve dations, scheduling, and materials manage- those goals, making a commitment, and Language-Based Partial Day ment, are handled by guidance. New learning to get along with others. We also Substantially Separate students and their families are served by encourage our students to be active in the For students with significant language based guidance through the kindergarten registra- community, participating in many commu- learning disabilities, this program provides tion process and the transfer process for nity service projects. intensive partial day instruction to develop incoming and outgoing students. Our guid- essential reading and writing skills. The Watertown High School Athletics conducted ance counselor is called upon daily, often program needs to expand in 2010 to con- a pre-season meeting with parent/guardians without advanced notice. Responding to tinue to meet the needs of these students as and their student-athletes in grades 9 child and family crises, consulting with par- they advance. We hope to have a 4/5 class through 12 to increase student and par- ents, and resolving student conflicts are next year, in addition to the 2/3 class. ent/guardian awareness of school, athletic regular occurrences. Teachers often seek and Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Primary Learning Support Program out consultations with our guidance coun- Association rules. A speaker presented the PLS has been developed for students with selor when challenges emerge around indi- dangers of alcohol and drugs and empha- neurodevelopmental disabilities to meet vidual students. The guidance role is also sized the message that substance use and their physical and academic needs. It is a involved in many other school functions, athletics don’t mix. district-based program providing integrated such as placement, team meetings, safety services and supplemental educational planning, and the development of protocols We also made progress toward reinstituting experiences, along with tailored and new processes. softball as a sport for girls in the Watertown curriculum. athletic program. A team competed at the Behavioral Support freshman/junior varsity level in the spring Specialized Instruction Many students, with and without learning of 2009 with the plan of becoming a varsity A special educator provides specific disabilities, experience difficulty regulating sport in the spring of 2010. The planning instruction for students with learning dis- emotions and behavior throughout the day. stage of instituting lacrosse as a high school abilities in accordance with the plans out- The Behavioral Support program, along sport began with the inception of a Youth lined in student IEPs. The schedule is a with guidance and contracted services from Lacrosse program in town. A freshman hectic one, and requires the teacher to the Academy for Physical and Social lacrosse team for both boys and girls will move from class to class, grade to grade, to Development, provides proactive and begin in the spring of 2010. meet the needs of all students. responsive programming, respite, consulta- tion and crisis intervention. Contracted User Fees were implemented for the 2009- Reading services from the Academy for Physical and 2010 school year due to budgetary con- In 2006, the district-based ELA coordinator Social Development have been invaluable. straints. An annual fee of $175.00 for position was eliminated and the reading athletics and $25.00 for clubs was set at the personnel began to operate under the ELL high school level. A $25.00 fee was started direction of the principal. The need for The Lowell has children with a wide variety at the middle school as well. reading intervention has become the focus of cultural and language backgrounds. Two of our reading program. Reading is a gate- ELL teachers currently provide services In 2009, the athletic program featured way skill to all future learning and we aim both in and out of the classroom, as well as many highlights. The girls field hockey to provide adequate regular education family education and support. and boys basketball teams won state reading support to children who have trou- championships and Stephanie Frankian ble in any of the major components of Departments and Programs won the girls state championship in golf. reading. Numerous student-athletes had individual Athletic Program athletic success as well. Watertown had Guidance The overriding mission of Watertown High many Middlesex League All-Stars and The guidance role is complex and diverse School Athletics is to achieve excellence in Boston Globe and Boston Herald All- in its reach. Class-based instruction every aspect of our program. We aspire to Scholastic athletes as well. addresses numerous aspects of violence help our students be the very best that they prevention, such as tolerating difference, can be. We strive to help develop our stu- Improvements were made to the Watertown resolving conflict and preventing bullying. dents athletically, academically and socially. Savings Bank Community Fitness Center

90 located at Watertown High School, which is entitled “SolidWorks” to create their experience the planning, preparation, and open from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The center designs. SolidWorks is also being used in serving of three delectable meals. is staffed by Strength Coordinator and the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) course Among the highlights for the beginning Science Teacher Brian Brewer and as students learn drafting through multi- Child Development students were their Watertown Police Officer George Hoffman. view drawing, sectional, auxiliary, working research projects and presentations on The fitness center is available to the entire drawings, and blueprint readings. birth defects, a Piaget workshop for chil- student body to help students with sport- Meanwhile, the computer repair program dren ages two to five, and speakers includ- specific conditioning programs or personal continued to fix computers for staff and stu- ing a midwife associated with Mount strength and conditioning. dents while receiving generous equipment Auburn Hospital and a neo-natal nurse Watertown competes in the Middlesex donations from community businesses. from Boston Children’s Hospital. Some League. A major change in the league struc- Several computer repair students also students are interning or volunteering at ture was voted in 2009 and will go into worked part-time for local companies. community pre-schools. effect in the fall of 2011. This structure will Students in the wood program continue Business Education students were fortunate split the league into two conferences which to assist in making repairs for the school to hear two assistant vice presidents of should help the smaller schools such as while also taking on the task of building Sovereign Bank explain the concept of Watertown to remain competitive. We are the set for the play in conjunction with the credit as they prepare for life after high also increasing efforts to coordinate drama program – another fine example of school. Meanwhile, the students in between the high school and middle school collaboration between the departments. Accounting once again worked with Bentley athletic programs. This real-world situation allows students to University students to create a modified For these and many other reasons, design and fabricate a set to be used in an business plan for the community service Watertown High School feels great enthusi- actual production. arm of an actual corporation. They then asm and optimism regarding our athletic presented the plans to professors and pro- The middle school saw the addition of programs. We have much to celebrate, and fessional auditors at Bentley University in Robotics as an enrichment course for strongly believe the best is yet to come. December. grades 7 and 8 with the students designing and competing in RoboRelay races. All of the authentic projects within the Career & Technical Education Department (6-12) Students designed, built, and programmed Career & Technical Education curriculum their robots for speed and agility. provide meaningful, stimulating, demand- The year saw exciting changes in Career ing, and motivating learning experiences for and Technical Education as we endeavor to The implementation of two media courses our students. provide challenging and authentic experi- at the high school proved to be successful ences to prepare our students for both as students entered the Obama education English Department (6-12) postsecondary education and the work- contest with their own video creations. place. The CTE (Career & Technical Watertown High School student Kevin Phu The English Departments at Watertown Education) program includes Business was one of ten finalists in the national Middle School and Watertown High School Education, Family & Consumer Science, contest. are continuing to work on aligning curricu- Industrial Technology, and Media & lum and improving achievement of students The “Armedia” course was created in col- Production. Students participate in mean- in grades 6 through 12. Guided by the laboration with foreign language and media ingful projects that involve collaboration, state’s English Curriculum Frameworks, so that students in advanced Armenian technology, creativity, problem solving, and teachers in each of these grades emphasize could complete their courses with media high-level communication as they gain the core skills including reading, writing, lis- communication while augmenting their knowledge, skills, competencies, self-confi- tening, and speaking. The middle school computer skills and increasing connections dence and self-esteem to be successful in provides additional developmental support to the world. the 21st century. to help students succeed both emotionally and academically in adolescence, and the The students in Food Services/Hospitality Now in its second year, the Engineering by high school teachers work to instill greater once again planned, budgeted, and hosted Design course saw an awesome group of and greater levels of independence and Raider Café teacher luncheons. They pre- students studying and using the engineering self-efficacy in students as they near gradu- pared and served the luncheons three times design process to solve problems and ation and adulthood. during the school year. This has become design solutions while working in teams. a focal point of the course as students These students are also using new software

91 Professional Development immerse themselves in the Facing History English department also publish Word The primary focus of professional develop- and Ourselves curriculum, which includes Painter, the school’s student-produced ment and curriculum analysis this year has an introduction to the literature and history journal of creative writing and poetry. been aligning and developing students’ of the Holocaust and its implications. The Writers’ Ink writing club provides another research and information literacy skills. middle-school Humanities experience outlet for student writers. Club members The social studies and English coordinators culminates in a community-oriented civic- held their first poetry slam in December, and the middle-school librarian have participation project called “Choosing to and they meet regularly to write poetry, worked to design a yearlong program in Participate.” Eighth-graders also participate stories, and non-fiction. which social studies and English teachers in the Martin Luther King, Jr., essay contest meet in various grade-level and subject sponsored by the World in Watertown. Mathematics Department (6-12) groups in order to design and implement The middle-school English/Language Arts The most significant event in math this technology-rich research and information- program also provides additional options year was the return to a 6-12 Secondary literacy projects for students and to work to improve students’ reading skills. Mathematics Department with coordinator on research and information-literacy teach- Specialized reading teachers provide extra Dan Wulf operating out of offices in both ing challenges. classes for students with language-based the middle school and the high school. At the middle school, the largest change was Study teams include groups of teachers des- learning disabilities and for students who the introduction of the Impact Math cur- ignating common language for teaching will benefit from more intensive reading riculum from the Glencoe publishing com- research across grades and disciplines, col- instruction. Additionally, teachers at all lev- pany. After two years of evaluating different laboratively looking at student work, devel- els work closely with the middle school’s middle school curricula and preparation, oping a sequence for academic tech-skill ELL teachers to maximize the academic grades 6 and 7 embarked on full imple- acquisition by students, collecting and shar- success of ELL students. mentation of the new program. Grade 8 did ing examples of student research work in At the high school, students continue their not participate as the new course materials grades 6 through 12, and enhancing cur- focus on analytical reading, expository and assumed students had been brought riculum connections between English and persuasive writing, and communication through the prior two courses. Grade 8 will social studies. skills. Core texts include To Kill a adopt the new program for the 2009-2010 Also, in their ongoing efforts to boost stu- Mockingbird, Romeo and Juliet, The school year. dents’ writing skills and interests, 7th-grade Crucible, Hamlet, The Great Gatsby, and For a second year, students who completed teachers continue to implement the Writers’ Of Mice and Men. Students also receive 8th grade math but were not yet prepared Workshop model in their classrooms, and extensive training in research and analysis for Geometry entered into the high school to teach students “Six Traits” writing skills. skills, which culminate in the Senior Thesis Algebra I program in 9th grade. Students Other secondary teachers have been taking Paper. The STP, written in steps over the who took this sequence during the prior classes on working with ELL students, first semester, requires students to demon- year entered Geometry Level 1 in the fall of developing AP curriculum and instruction, strate their proficiency in academic 2008, and their performance was evaluated learning about China and the Middle East, research, analytical thinking, research to establish possible changes in 8th grade teaching students about information liter- note taking, outlining, critical analysis, math for 2009-2010. acy, teaching journalism, and so on. and source citation. The high school offers college-prep and honors courses in grades The MCAS scores from the May 2008 testing Curriculum 9 and 10, and students may take Advanced were consistent at the high school, with Students in the middle-school grades con- Placement courses in grades 11 and 12. 80% of the students achieving proficient or tinue to focus on reading and writing and Seniors may also choose to study humani- better on their first attempt on the exam on studying English and social studies in ties or contemporary literature for their and 57% of the students scoring in the interdisciplinary humanities classes. senior English credits. advanced category. At the middle school, Featured projects and events in the 6th grade 6 saw a slight increase in math grade include storybook research and writ- The student newspaper The Raider Times scores (64% proficient or better), and ing, poetry writing, and the performance of continues to be published quarterly. grades 7 and 8 experienced small original scary stories. Each year the 7th Community members may view the current decreases (47% and 53% proficient or graders write memoirs, study Shakespeare, issue by surfing to the WHS homepage and better, respectively). and present scenes of A Midsummer using the clickable link to view a digital Night’s Dream; and the 8th graders version of the newspaper. Students in the

92 Secondary math staffing remained virtually courses at Watertown High School. Her NSTA National Conference: Using intact from 2007-2008. The only exception online students did as well as the students Technology to Teach Forces and Motion was the addition of Hugh McLaughlin in the who took the course with her at WHS, and Last March, Karen MacAulay and Elizabeth high school Math Lab starting in February she had the best results of all VHS AP Kaplan (grade 7 science team) travelled as a permanent substitute. The middle Statistics teachers this year. In exchange for to New Orleans to present at the National school welcomed the return of Phil Oates in her teaching time, Watertown High receives Science Teachers Association (NSTA) the 7th grade math program, filling in as a 25 student seats per semester for students annual National Conference. The presenta- long-term sub for the year. to take online courses. tion was an interactive workshop in which participants experienced a series of lessons Professional development programming in Students in advanced math courses took within Karen and Elizabeth’s Forces and the math department continues to thrive. a challenging national math exam, the Motion Unit. Karen and Elizabeth presented Because middle school and high school American Math Competition (AMC). All did the scope and sequence of the unit and math is now one large department, meet- well, and one moved on to the next exam then had attendees experience pre-assess- ings floated between both schools. At the (the American Invitational Math Exam or ment, formative assessments, and labs. The beginning of every department meeting, AIME, for short) which was even more culminating experience for attendees was to teachers grappled collectively with a math challenging. For the first time, students in complete a lab activity using Vernier motion problem in order to explore how they the honors Algebra and Geometry courses sensors. Karen and Elizabeth received posi- approached each problem and how stu- at the middle school courses took the tive feedback from workshop attendees and dents think about mathematics. The depart- AMC-8, the middle school version of the plan to submit another proposal to the ment worked in cross-building lesson study tests given at the high school. The 8th grade NSTA in the future. teams in the fall, and analyzed the sequenc- honors students will continue to participate ing of courses and content during the sec- in this program for the foreseeable future. Curriculum ond half of the year. The middle school science curriculum con- Finally, the 2008-2009 school year marked tinued to be revised moving from a spiral The Focus on Math (FoM) grant, funded by the end of an era. Chuck Garabedian taught approach to course-specific subjects for the National Science Foundation, has con- his final set of courses at Watertown High each grade level; grade 6 will now concen- tinued to provide opportunities for profes- School. He will be missed. trate on Astronomy, Earth Science and sional development. The Watertown High Ecology, grade 7 on Life Science, and grade School math teachers attended seminars in Science Department (6-12) 8 on Physical Science, including forces and Chelsea, Lawrence, Arlington, Waltham, and The Presidential Award for motion and an introduction to chemistry. at Watertown High. Kitt Wagner also co-led Excellence in Mathematics and a one-week summer seminar on “Algebra Science Teaching (PAEMST) Teachers in grades 6-12 met periodically to Connections” with participants from all five Mr. Charles Duggan, physical science and evaluate the content, skills and assessments Focus on Math school districts. Finally, the physics teacher at Watertown High School, used at each grade level in order to develop Math Department hosted the 6th Annual has been selected as one of three Massa - better progressions from one level to the Math Fair in the high school library, with chusetts science teachers eligible for the next and to establish a uniform laboratory over 110 projects and over 185 students Presidential Award for Excellence in report format and grading rubric. participating, and the middle school held a Mathematics and Science Teaching The Ecology of Bonaire math fair for the first time since the incep- (PAEMST). If Mr. Duggan is selected as the Mr. George Buckley, retired Watertown tion of the grant, featuring projects from finalist, he will receive a signed citation Science Coordinator, returned once again Anne Paoletti’s 8th grade enrichment from the President of the United States, a to the high school in order to organize his classes. Watertown contributed 12 posters $10,000.00 award from the National yearly ecological tour of the coral reefs of to the annual Math Expo hosted by FoM at Science Foundation, and gifts from donors the Bonaire Marine Park in the Dutch the Charles River Museum of Industry & across the country. In addition, he will Caribbean. Twelve students spent a week Innovation in Waltham. The grant has been attend an award ceremony in Washington, snorkeling and scuba diving in the crystal extended for a seventh year. DC. Winners will be notified by April, 2010. clear water of the reefs which encircle the On the technological frontier, Karen island. They learned firsthand about the Trenholm successfully completed the year truly stunning array of reef fish, the coral as Watertown High School’s first Virtual that make up the reef and the importance High School (VHS) teacher. She taught AP of maintaining this beautiful reef ecosystem. Statistics online, which replaced one of her

93 Social Studies Department (6-12) blogs, podcasts, and various curriculum placement psychology program. These The secondary social studies curriculum software. At the high school, the recently courses connected soon-to-be graduates was reviewed and modified to align with the refurbished computer lab serves as the with numerous community resources such state-mandated frameworks, to support dis- nerve center for cyber-learning. At the mid- as the Project Youth Program, the annual trict, school and departmental goals, and to dle school, mobile laptop carts enable State Government Day at the State House, prepare students for success in the 21st teachers to bring technology to each stu- the Voice of Democracy essay contest, the century. The teaching staff addressed cur- dent’s desk. Massachusetts Bar Association and the Student Advisory Council to the Massa- riculum improvements, both in content and In grade 6, students study World Geography chusetts Board of Education. pedagogy, and assisted in the structural which emphasizes cultural as well as physi- reorganization of the social studies cal geography. The curriculum includes the The social studies department worked with department. study of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. a number of curriculum resources. The The teachers in grade 6 geography, grades In grade 7, students study ancient civiliza- Pathways to China Program provided stu- 7 & 8 humanities, and grades 9-12 social tions, starting from early man and continu- dents with the opportunity to learn about studies actively participated in the evalua- ing through the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Chinese culture and possibly travel to tion of content revision, the scaffolding Greek and Roman civilizations. In grade 8, China. Project Citizen provided materials of student skills, and the coordination of students start with a “Facing History and and hosted competitions on civic education. assessment techniques across the curricula. Ourselves” unit which studies the Holocaust Primary Source offered courses in content Towards this end, teachers have worked to explore fundamental historical questions specific curricula as well as instructional together to complete curriculum mapping, and themes as well as to introduce guest resources. The Bill of Rights Institute con- to integrate technology into every lesson, speakers to the classroom. The curriculum ducted seminars on individual rights. The and to participate in varied professional broadens to include ancient China, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum development opportunities. Middle East, the Middle Ages, and the Development presented experts in the field Renaissance. of student learning. The Global Education High school teachers who are certified to of Massachusetts consortium provided both In grades 9 and 10, students engage in a teach United States history, along with ele- seminars and teaching materials. mentary teachers in grade 5, remained rigorous, two-year program in United States actively involved in the second year of the history. The curriculum monitors successful Social studies teachers maintained a close five-year Teaching American History grant, student learning through data-driven analy- relationship with Watertown organizations funded by the United States Department of sis of common assessments, implementa- such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Education. Through content-based profes- tion of lesson studies, and utilization of Watertown Citizens for Environmental sional development as well as through a standardized tests while preserving each Safety, the Historical Society of Watertown, lesson study program administered by student’s curiosity and personal interest in the Armenian Library and Museum of Boston University Graduate School of our nation’s story. America, as well as the Watertown Rotary Club, the Watertown Town Council, the Education, teachers improved their instruc- In grade 11, students interact with an expe- Margaret Bainbridge Scholarship Founda - tional skills and their historical knowledge. riential curriculum in World History which tion, and various religious and secular refines the broad topics of cultural diversity, In the second year of departmental reor- organizations. ganization, the English Language Arts and political institutions and global humanitar- Social Studies Departments consolidated ian issues. The central focus of the course In January, the department oversaw the their professional development program- is the study of non-governmental organiza- Martin Luther King, Jr. essay competition, ming under the heading of Research and tions (NGOs). Some World History students sponsored by the World in Watertown, at Information Literacy Skills. In conjunction received community service credit for their both the middle and high school, and the with the district’s technology specialists, humanitarian efforts. In April, students also winning student essayists read their essays teachers crafted various projects and lesson worked with the WHS Armenian Club and at the annual Unity Breakfast. the Armenian National Committee to host studies which empower students to find, In all social studies classes, both students an assembly on the Armenian genocide. identify and analyze information. and teachers continued to work together The social studies department’s integration In grade 12, students selected from a vari- to master content while cultivating critical- of technology into both instruction and ety of courses, including law, civics, psy- thinking skills, in an effort to become assessment is ongoing. Teachers continue chology, economics, and Asian history. intelligent and well-informed citizens. Instruc- to create and use classroom websites, Qualifying students took the advanced tion and curricula strive to broaden student

94 achievement and to lay the foundation of foods, prepared by the students, added • Updating classroom, school, department, lifelong learning where every student dis- spice and flavor to the day. and district websites covers knowledge and applies this knowl- The World Language Department is explor- • Expanding and improving high-speed edge toward personal success. ing how to expand the introduction of lan- Internet access guages to grades K-5. The overarching goal • Deploying student netbooks within a World Languages Department (6-12) is to have a K-12 World Language program cloud computing environment Due to retirements and transfers, in place in the next several years. Several • Continuing to deploy student laptop carts Watertown Middle School has a brand new administrators are looking into language for classroom use staff of world language teachers. The world programs in other districts, both locally This year the Educational Technology language teachers at the high school have and nationally, to see what type of program been working closely with the new middle Department is developing the next stage of and what language(s) will best serve the district’s innovative technology plan, school teachers to acclimate them to the Watertown going into the future. district and to introduce them to the cur- called “Literacy21.” New and emerging riculum. In September of 2009, the first technologies are enabling innovative educa- Educational Technology tion and fostering an excellent educational group of students who started the new Department (K-12) grade 6 accelerated world language classes environment for all our students. Our The Educational Technology Department will become freshmen at the high school. Literacy21 Plan is driven by four key con- is comprised of Library Media teachers, The teachers at both schools have been cepts that are changing and improving Educational Technology teachers, and meeting regularly to ensure a smooth tran- teaching and learning: Technical Services. The Educational sition. These freshmen will be the first class Technology programs are designed to help • The Internet is the invention. to start year three of the language that they students become independent learners, • Students are creators and contributors. began in grade 6. Students who started transform information, think creatively, their language in grade 7 will begin year • Teachers and students have a globalized problem solve, and communicate. This year two of their language when they become curriculum where students talk with various curriculum and technology initia- freshmen at WHS. each other world-wide, and teachers tives enriched student learning and faculty share and learn from colleagues The middle school language program has a development. Initiatives include: anywhere. new curriculum and new texts for Spanish • Implementing professional development • Educators need a professional and Italian. As the middle school students Technology-in-Practice mini courses for community to think together and transition to the high school, the new cur- faculty improve practice. riculum series for both languages will also Visit the Watertown Public Schools website, be phased into the upper level curriculum. • Continuing to support faculty planning and the Teaching & Learning webpages in Along with the many digital resources avail- and teaching with various curriculum particular, for more information about how able in the new curriculum, foreign lan- and technology integration projects and technology supports, enables, and enriches guage teachers have been participating in digital resources our curriculum and classroom practice. a professional development course about • Seeking and relaying to teachers media- using ePals. ePals is an online pen-pal pro- rich, state-of-the-art lesson plans from gram that brings together teachers and stu- free sources like Thinkfinity and English as a Second Language Program (K-12) dents from all parts of the globe. Teacher’s Domain The Watertown Public Schools has a com- • Using Measures of Academic Progress In May, a Day of Celebration was held at prehensive educational program for English to assess student learning gains and Watertown High School. Students presented Language Learners (ELLs). The goal of the to differentiate instruction to their peers in other classes, showcasing program is to provide students with the a variety of projects in many languages, • Renovating School Libraries into skills to function successfully in an English- from original storybooks read by the Learning Commons speaking environment. There are two com- authors, to studio-produced music videos • Offering updated and relevant collections ponents to how ELLs are educated in the on YouTube. Some students worked with of resources in both print and non-print school district. The first component is Vera Ventura, Media teacher, to prepare formats English language development (ELD). ELD their multimedia projects. All of the proj- • Partnering with innovative companies, instruction facilitates proficiency in speak- ects demonstrated hard work, growth in such as FableVision, WGBH, and ing, listening, reading and writing in social learning, and genuine talent. International EnableMath and academic settings. Teachers holding

95 ESL licenses teach ELD in district schools. documents. A system of on-call interpreters WMS students were selected, through com- The second component of how ELLs are was provided for parent/teacher confer- petitive audition, for Massachusetts Music educated in the school district involves ences and school and district events. Educators Association Eastern District sheltered English instruction (SEI). SEI is Junior Music Festival. The music ensembles taught by classroom and content teachers Fine and Performing Arts and choruses performed concerts for mem- and other staff who provide instruction to Department (K-12) bers of the Watertown community at the ELLs. SEI is an approach for helping ELLs The visual arts program has continued to Watertown Mall, the Town Hall, and the learn required subject matter while at the expand both its traditional media and tech- Memorial Day and September 11th cere- same time promoting English language nology enhanced art program. Student monies. The WHS Pep Band performed at proficiency. enrollment requests for visual art courses home football games throughout the fall at the high school increased for the 2009- season and welcomed alumni performers to ESL Program Initiatives in 2009 have 2010 school year. Enrollment remains rejoin the group at the annual Thanksgiving included professional development, cur- robust in the advanced studio arts classes, Day game against Belmont. riculum development and translation serv- preparing student portfolios for collegiate ices. The Massachusetts Department of Music teachers have made extensive use of art school admissions. The advanced com- Elementary and Secondary Education the hand-held digital recorders, one for puter design/web design program at WHS, requires that all teachers of ELLs participate each building in the district. In addition to led by Dan Dressler, is using state-of-the-art in a professional development program in recording student presentations and class- software, preparing students for potential order to work effectively with these stu- room rehearsals and activities, teachers use careers in the digital graphic arts. Numerous dents. Teachers of ELLs are expected to the recorders for individual performance examples of student art from all levels of participate in the following four categories assessments and to upload student per- the district are available for viewing online, of professional development: formances onto classroom websites for stu- both on the district website and on class- dent homework and practice. • Second Language Learning and Teaching room websites. Several students won • Sheltering Content Instruction awards for their artwork at the annual The WHS ensemble groups undertook sev- Globe Scholastic Art Competition. eral collaborations this year, including WHS • Assessment of Speaking and Listening Full Orchestra performances at Bandarama The annual K-12 all-school art show at the • Reading and Writing in Sheltered Content in March and at the Heritage Music Festival Watertown Mall in early March drew a large Classrooms in New York City in early April. In addition crowd at the opening reception. 2009 WHS In response to this mandate, professional to the Full Orchestra, the Women’s Chorus, graduate Sun Hee Uoo won First Place in development programs for district staff who the A Capella Choir, and the String the annual Watertown Savings Bank Calendar teach ELLs were provided. These profes- Ensemble all competed at the Heritage Art Contest, and two students, Adam Koot- sional development programs involved out Music Festival in New York City, all winning Bascomb and Priscila Silva, were accepted of district courses offered by EDCO as well silver medal awards. The WHS groups were through a portfolio and interview process as courses within district schools. chaperoned by ensemble directors Dan to participate in the Art All-State Program at Jordan, Dan Wulf, and Dr. Frederik The ESL Program staff developed an English the Worcester Art Museum in May. Schuetze, accompanied by Donna Calleja language development (ELD) curriculum of the WHS art program and Dorothy during scheduled professional development The music program continued to expand its Corriveau from the middle school. days in the school year and in a summer offerings, led by increased usage of Orff instruments, keyboard skills training in the workshop. The ELD curriculum is differen- In addition to playing at Bandarama in curriculum, and wider use of computerized tiated for students at different levels of March, the vibrant strings program at the music notation programs. Numerous exam- English proficiency. In addition, it is elementary level, led by Sharon Woodworth, ples of student performances are now linked to English Language Proficiency and middle school level, led by Dr. Frederik posted on teacher websites. The music pro- Benchmarks and Outcomes for English Schuetze and Art Wallace, performed winter gram has also seen increasing participation Language Learners (ELPBO) and the and spring concerts to enthusiastic audi- in the instrumental and vocal ensembles at Curriculum Frameworks. ences. The Bandarama concert included a the middle and high school levels. The performance by over 150 string players The ESL program also implemented district- music program presented concerts to grades 4-12. wide translation and interpretation services. enthusiastic audiences in May and December, Commercial firms were utilized for transla- as well as at the annual Bandarama Concert The 7th-8th grade band combined with the tions of school and district information and in the WHS Gymnasium in March. Several 7th-8th grade string orchestra to create a

96 Full Orchestra numbering over 60 players. “Bolstering the Arts” document has been to use for attendance, fitness data, and Together, the band and string orchestra accepted by the Central Office, and FAPA is grading rubrics. performed successfully at both the Spring awaiting funding for many of its aspects. Elementary Level and Winter Concerts, as well as at Some small grants have been received to The curriculum for elementary PE has been Bandarama. Bandarama featured over purchase electronic keyboards and digital aligned to include fitness testing protocol, 300 instrumental musicians in grades 4-12 cameras, but larger projects and upgrades adventure curriculum, improved skill-based performing in a gala concert on the WHS in departmental offerings are awaiting approach to teaching activities, heart rate Gymnasium floor before a large and enthu- funding. monitors, and new adapted PE equipment. siastic audience. Additional adapted PE sections added in Physical Education and Health The number of performers in the middle Department (PreK-12) September have successfully given students school chorus program, directed by Abigail who require APE appropriate skills and The physical education and health depart- Cordell, continued to rise to all-time highs. time to develop skills outside of regular PE ment successfully applied for the Carol Members of the Girls Select Chorus won classes. White Physical Education Program (PEP) high honors at a music festival in Agawam, Grant in March 2009. Several months prior By the end of January, new life skill-based MA in the spring. The elementary cho- were devoted to developing a strategic plan activities will be implemented to include ruses, under the direction of Sara for a Fit, Fun for Life Program in physical Snow Shoeing and Geo Fit (Dance). The Patashnick (Hosmer) and Anthony Spano education. Dance curriculum teaches nutrition and (Lowell and Cunniff), performed at the all- math while moving through dance. elementary concert at the WHS auditorium In July 2009, Watertown Public Schools was in June, and at building-based concerts in awarded the PEP grant. In year one of this Before- and after-school activity programs December. The Hosmer chorus also sang grant the physical education department have increased due to PEP grant funding, during December at the Watertown Mall. received $408,474. During the grant appli- providing students with jump rope, fit cation process, staff prepared curriculum clubs, and other activity-based programs. In The drama program presented several that will improve fitness levels of all stu- addition, collaboration with the Watertown highly successful shows, including Cole dents and bring curriculum into 21st Boys and Girls Club and Recreation Porter’s musical Anything Goes, directed Century Learning. New activities, skill-based Department has improved. After-school by Beth Peters and WHS Chorus Director teaching strategies, and technology were the activities are structured to meet PE Dan Wulf. The fall saw a production of the key initiatives for planning the goals and standards and supervised by trained staff. comedy, The Importance of Being Uncle objectives. Roscoe, directed by middle school teacher Middle School Health and Adapted PE Abigail Cordell. In the spring, the middle Objective 1: By the end of three years, Guidance staff has been given .2 teaching school drama program presented a musical student will improve personal fitness duties to teach grade 6th health in order to for the first time in many years, Once On levels by 25%. increase health education. In addition, a This Island, Jr., directed by Abigail Cordell. guidance staff member with adapted PE Objective 2: Students will increase the experience was also been given a .1 posi- The Fine and Performing Arts (FAPA) amount of time spent active in physical edu- tion to assist APE. Department continued to devote profes- cation courses and therefore increase the sional development time and resources to amount of time they spend in moderate to Secondary Physical Education its long-term curriculum articulation proj- vigorous physical activity. The middle and high school curriculum has ect, creating documents and unit plans improved to teach 21st-century PE skills. Objective 3: Additional opportunities for demonstrating how FAPA curricula are con- Additional Adventure curriculum and train- professional development will be provided forming with state frameworks and building ing has been added that also provides after- to physical education and health staff. on prior student skills and experience. school programs. High Elements have been FAPA teachers continue to use individual Technology has improved dramatically added to both schools to give students classroom websites for announcements, through the use of PE Manager Software exciting challenges and increase coopera- homework, and interactive web-based and Fitness Testing through the Tri-Fit tive activities. Fitness testing through a high- learning for students and families. All FAPA System and Software. Tracking student fit- tech Tri-Fit System and Polar Heart Rate teachers are enrolled in Technology in ness data is now possible in grades 3-12. Monitors is being used in order to teach Practice classes offered by the district, and PE manager software is a tool for teachers students the importance of heart health and many are doing individual technology proj- lifelong health. The technology enables ects throughout the year. The long-range

97 teachers to develop a fitness portofolio to abilities and needs, and develop strategies The Adult and Community Education track fitness data from year to year. to realize their full potential. The primary Program provides exciting, low-cost learn- role of the guidance staff is to implement a ing opportunities designed to answer the Additional funding provided by the PEP program that will help all students acquire needs and interests of Watertown’s diverse grant has made additional before- and after- the educational, social, and vocational skills adult population. The Adult Program pro- school activities available. At the middle necessary for living in a multicultural soci- vides courses for working people and pro- school, nutrition, cooking, adventure, fit- ety. Guidance counselors act as student fessionals, people returning to the work- ness club, cross-country running, ping- advocates and work closely with other edu- force, newcomers to the United States, and pong, and dance have been successful. At cators, parents and community members people of all ages who seek a fun, active the high school, outdoor exploring and to provide opportunities for students to alternative to their usual evening routine. Ultimate Frisbee have attracted student par- develop the competencies necessary to lead The program offers courses in a wide range ticipants. The new fitness centers are also productive, fulfilling lives. of subjects including ceramics, drawing, open for students to work on personal fit- watercolor, beading, mosaics, computer ness.The Boys and Girls Club has also Nursing basics, zumba, floga, hula hooping, body extended hours in order to increase student revival, yoga, belly dancing, tap dancing, activity. The school setting offers unique opportuni- ties for children to learn healthy behaviors ballroom dancing, golf, aerobics, African By the end of January, students at all levels and to receive easily accessible, compre- drumming, estate planning, tree and scrub will experience Geo Fit Dance, a new dance hensive health services. Each school has a pruning, genealogy, financial aid, green method using dance mats. Dance has been full-time school nurse. The school nurses insulation, getting organized and the History lacking in curriculum especially at the sec- act as liaisons between homes, schools and of Watertown. ondary level. Snow Shoeing will also be the community regarding health concerns In May 2009, Watertown Adult Education taught to students in grades 3-12 in January. of students. The goal is twofold. First, we coordinated the sixth Town-wide Yard Sale want to encourage healthy behaviors The PEP grant and the new Fit, Fun for Life in which over 100 families participated. By through education programs and mandated program will provide Watertown students popular demand this is now a much-antici- health screenings to prevent health issues and PE teachers with current trends for pated annual community event. from arising. Second, we strive to assess the physical education and give students more chronic health needs of students and treat Before-School Programs offer quiet super- choices to learn how to become fit and stay their acute needs so that students can reach vised activities for children grades PreK-5 fit. As the department strives to strengthen their educational potential. before the regular school day begins. knowledge of physical education in our schools and in the community, the goal is to Extended Day Programs provide safe and improve lifelong physical fitness. Community Education enriching after-school care for children Watertown Community Education includes Grades PreK-5 until 6:00 pm. Our program Student Services Adult and Community Education evening supports cognitive, social, emotional and Programs (PreK-12) classes, the Before-School Program at all physical development. The daily schedule three elementary schools, Courses for Kids Student Services Programs integrate all the includes homework time, gym or outside at the elementary schools, the Hosmer services that support student growth and exercise time, computer time and arts and Extended Day Program, the Cunniff Voyager development. Watertown provides a com- crafts. Enrichment activities vary from year Program, the Lowell Extended Day prehensive array of programs and services to year but often include community service Program, after-school activities at the from pre-school through grade 12, includ- projects, nutrition and exercise workshops, middle school and Summer School ing guidance, nursing, community educa- puppet shows, face painting and special Programs for children PreK through grade tion, and special education. programs such as live animal shows and 12. Our mission is to provide high quality pony rides! Our instructors offered a variety Guidance programming that supports engagement in of clubs during the year, such as gardening, learning, positive youth behavior and pro- jewelry, a Harry Potter book club, an art The Watertown Guidance Program provides motes lifelong learning. Watertown activities, interventions and services which club, yoga, and cooking. We continued Community Education is committed to our community service outreach to the assist students in achieving their maximum building partnerships that meet the needs personal development, both as individuals Women’s Lunch Place in Boston, Warm Up of the adults, families and children in America and the Afghan Project. In addi- and as learners. Guidance and counseling Watertown. are vital components of the educational tion, the program offers coverage for early process which help students recognize their release days, full-day programming for

98 February and April vacations and eight off. In July 2009, 13 middle school students community providers, and developmental weeks during the summer. The program participated in a Gardening Club to beautify screening. The Preschool Intake Review also offers an emergency drop-off service the middle school courtyard. The class was Team screens and assesses children aged for parent/guardians who may have a com- co-taught by two certified teachers, a pro- three through five years based on a referral mitment or an urgent matter to attend to fessional landscape designer/horticul - from early intervention programs, the med- on occasion. turist, and a group of volunteers from the ical community, parents or others. The Watertown Citizens for Environmental pre-school staff works closely with the ele- Special Events Safety. mentary principals and staff to assure In June, children in grades 3-5 at the smooth transitions and continuation of Hosmer Extended Day Program were cho- Summer Program appropriate support services in the elemen- sen by WGBH to participate in a photo The Summer Program through Watertown tary school. shoot for the award-winning PBS television Community Education helps families plan show FETCH!, a hands-on science and engi- a summer full of enjoyable, varied, and Inclusion Programs neering show. The photos were made into a meaningful activities for their children. Elementary Schools slideshow that lives within the online train- This was the second year of our Summer Special education teachers provide services ing to accompany the FETCH! television Explorations Program, an eight-week, proj- at each of the three elementary schools. show and website (pbskidsgo.org/fetch). ect-based learning program for all PreK-5 Students who receive services typically have Hosmer Extended Day students also entered students. Academic courses for grade 6-12 a diagnosis of a specific learning disability. the Massachusetts Information Technology students are designed for students who In this program, teachers provide in-class Division 2009 Kids Safe Online Poster wish to improve a low or failing grade. The support with some discrete out-of-class Contest, open to all Massachusetts 4th and curriculum is geared toward building skills support in literacy and math. Development 5th grade students. The Commonwealth’s as well as meeting credit requirements and of instructional strategies, organizational top three entries included one of our stu- is based on the individual needs of the stu- skills, motivation, responsibility, and self- dents. We also won 3rd place in the annual dents enrolled. advocacy skills is emphasized. Specific Watertown Mall Scarecrow Contest. social and emotional skills are addressed Special Education as needed. Students receive individualized Courses for Kids is an after-school enrich- instruction based on their evaluations/ ment program offered at the elementary The Watertown Public Schools provides a consultation with classroom teachers. schools that provides classes such as art, variety of services designed to address the Related services, such as speech and lan- scrabble, hands-on science, drumming, needs of students identified with a disability guage, counseling, and occupational and chess and karate. Language classes in who require special education services. physical therapy, may also be included. French, Spanish and Chinese were added this year. Preschool Programs Professional development, support and col- Integrated Preschool Program (Hosmer laboration time are provided to team mem- Watertown Middle School Early Steps Preschool) bers working in the program. Ongoing Enrichment Clubs Integrated multi-aged classrooms are home-school communication is built in to staffed according to the individualized The middle school offers clubs such as the provide support and consultation. needs of the students. The curriculum is art mural club, the 3D art club, the rock designed to fulfill goals and objectives for Teachers promote the understanding of dis- band club, cooking and dance. The pre-school students in their social, emo- abilities and strategies to help all diverse mural club participated in the Violence tional, cognitive, language, and physical learners engage with peers. Transformed Exhibits sponsored by the development. A collaborative team Cloud Foundation. Their artwork was dis- Middle School approach is utilized in this program that played at the Cloud Foundation gallery, at Inclusion services are designed for special involves special education teachers, instruc- the Towne Gallery of Wheelock College education students with moderate to signifi- tional assistants, consulting psychologists, and at the Massachusetts State House. In cant needs who are able to manage the occupational, physical and speech thera- September 2009, they began working on grade level curriculum but require modifi- pists. Parental involvement is critical to the a collage installation for the Children’s cations. Students are assigned inclusion success of this program. There are several Hospital facility in Waltham and have com- services that target the areas of disability. A instructional models including half-day and pleted several rocking chairs including special education teacher, instructional full-day programming, discrete specialized one for the Watertown Library and the assistant, or Title 1 Tutor may provide services, consultation to parents and Children’s Family Network to be auctioned inclusion support. IEP Teams determine the

99 frequency of inclusion services based upon transition into the world of employment. intervention. The four areas derive from individual needs. The program works closely with commu- observable service needs among students nity-based employers to enhance the expe- and from the trend for students to seek The Academic Assistance Program is riences of participating students, supporting services out of district. intended for both special and general edu- them in the development of skills and rela- cation students who require re-teaching, 1) Language-Based Learning Disabilities tionships that lead to successful transitions pre-teaching and more exposure to content into the world of work. A) At the elementary level, these would area curriculum. This program is co-taught include students who have at least with one special education teacher and two Specialized Services one Average WISC score and signifi- content area teachers. As a part of this pro- cant disabilities in multiple areas gram, students receive progress reports on The following related services are offered such as speech and language, read- a regular basis. All special education stu- at the pre-school, elementary, middle and ing or writing. The aim would be to dents are enrolled in this class every high school levels to students who qualify service children for a few years with other day. for the specific services. the intention of addressing the dis- High School • Speech and Language Therapy ability and returning them to the Specialized instruction to support inclusion • Occupational Therapy mainstream classroom. Without is provided by special education teachers • Physical Therapy/Contracted Services such a program, they never catch who support students in their inclusion • Psychologists (testing and consultation up. This program will start at the classes. These classes focus on organiza- services) Lowell with early elementary stu- tional and study strategies to help students dents this fall and is for a district- • Counseling, Clinician Support (one-to- with disabilities succeed in general educa- wide population. It will occupy one, group therapy by Wayside Youth tion classes. The learning format includes 2.5-3 hours per day. and Family Services, Colony Care, The one-on-one instruction, small group Academy of Physical and Social B) At the middle school level, those instruction, monitoring and reinforcement, Development) who had not been remediated applied academics, homework strategies, would continue along with students evaluation of strategies and skills, and aca- • Specialized Reading Instruction (Orton- who need the same type of teaching demic test monitoring. Gillingham, Wilson Reading Program, one-on-one and small group instruction) environment: small teacher/pupil The Academic Support program at • Behavioral Consultation ratio, spiraling, chunking, slower Watertown High School is intended for both pace, such as children with regular and special education students and • Behavioral/Social Services (Walker Asperger’s Disorder or NLD. offers daily support to students in grades School Services) 9-12 in all academic areas. The teacher and • Vision Specialist Support (Contracted This is in place at Watertown Middle instructional assistant support students to services, Carroll Center, New England School with adjunct services for complete projects, prepare for tests, organ- College of Optometry) speech and language pragmatics, ize assignments, and complete homework. • Instructional Tutoring (one-to-one or and a social skills group. Small Collaboration with teachers, guidance small group) classes are offered in Reading, counselors, administration, parents and These services are typically provided in Math, and English. therapists is an important aspect of the sup- class. However, there are times when a C) At Watertown High School this fall, port given to students in this program. student requires “discrete” out-of-class there will be a 9th grade strand of Watertown High School supports the transi- interaction. With all these related services, language-based classes for students tion of general and special education stu- consultation to staff and parents and evalu- moving up from the middle school. dents who will be going into the workplace ation services are provided as needed. A speech and language/reading when they graduate. The Transition to Work teacher will be hired for the high Program recognizes and acknowledges the Four Strands of Intensive In-District school and will consult with this necessity for all students to be given the Intervention program. The lead psychologist for opportunity to gain exposure to the world Student Services has been establishing four the district, Barbara Gortych, will of work while developing appropriate work strands of services to offer step-down and also consult and run a monthly behaviors, social and life skills. A job coach step-up services for students as well as seminar for staff. will be provided to assist students in their respite, intensive short-term and long-term

100 2) Social-Emotional Disabilities C) At the high school, the Counseling and elementary schools that the and Academic Program (CAP) high school has to begin to develop A) At the elementary level, there are no addresses emotional issues with a increased services for these upcom- formal programs in place district- somewhat different model than IESP. ing students. wide at this time. The elementary The CAP program offers one or two schools intervene with children with 4) Neurodevelopmental/Intellectual periods a day as respite and alter- emotional disabilities. The Academy Disabilities nate setting as well as supporting for Social and Physical Development There is an expanding diagnostic cate- student success in their academic works with students at the Hosmer gory appearing at the pre-school and subjects. It is staffed by a coordina- and the Lowell and a social worker early elementary level: neurodevelop- tor, two instructional assistants and from Walker works at the Cunniff. mental disorders. These include severe a social worker. However, when such difficulties seizure disorders and neurological syn- expand, there is no step-up pro- dromes, which seem to be appearing in At the Spring High School Retreat, gramming district-wide at this time. much greater numbers. These children further plans for expansion of serv- are largely nonverbal in the early grades ices and interventions were devel- There will be a prevention program and need a great deal of intensive oped. These will be pursued starting this fall around separation instruction for the most basic cognitive throughout the year. anxiety. The impetus for this came and academic skills. The following ini- from the experience of the Middle 3) Autism Spectrum Disabilities tiatives support these students. School Integrated Emotional While the majority of students experi- A) There will be a Learning Support Support Program (IESP). Mike encing autism in the district are in classroom at the Lowell this year Ferullo has already met with the inclusion classes, there are some for students in grades K to 2 and guidance counselors to brainstorm children who benefit from a semi- another at the Hosmer for students around this issue. substantially separate setting. in grades 3 to 5. Class size will be B) The Middle School Integrated A) At the elementary level, the autism small with a high teacher/student Emotional Support Program (IESP) program has been at the Cunniff. ratio. Speech and language thera- is very successful. This program This year, older children will stay pists will be intimately involved offers respite, drop-in services, 45- there, but younger children will be daily. day evaluation services, and a sub- in a district-wide program at the B) The Learning Support Program at stantially separate classroom with a Hosmer. Watertown Middle School provides certified teacher. Also attached to B) At the middle school, the numbers services to students with significant this program are Elizabeth Webb for in the past did not warrant a special cognitive and developmental delays. counseling; Mike Ferullo of Colony class but one will be established Students are supported in learning Care for group work and consulta- this fall for children on the the content for their grade level tion; Ken Berringer from the spectrum. with modified curriculum and small Academy, who provides interns, group instruction. There is an supervision, and consultation; and C) As students from the middle school added emphasis on the practical Barbara Gortych for assessment and who require a more intensive pro- skills required for daily living. consultation. There is a staff meeting gram move to the high school, spe- once a week with the consultants cialized programming will be C) The Learning Support Program at and Jason DelPorto, Assistant Prin- developed. At the Spring High Watertown High School deals with cipal, Penelope Giannakopoulos, School Retreat, there was a good a variety of struggling students. Team Chair; Marie Mele, deal of planning and discussion Further planning for differentiating Coordinator; and the staff. around delivery and differentiation interventions and programming is of services for students with low being discussed. Of particular inter- For larger issues, there is a great ability, autism, and neurodevelop- est to the staff were more vocational deal of coordination with outside mental disorders. It was also appar- and life skills trainings and classes. agencies, the courts, and therapists. ent from populations in the middle

101 Voting Results

102 103 Notes

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