Connections

A Community Working Together Volume 3, Issue 4

Summer 2005

Change characterizes 2004-2005 school year

By September of 2005 Holy- oke will have four K-8 Inside this issue: Dr. Eduardo B. Carballo schools, two middle Superintendent of Schools schools and three K-5 schools. These school New Curriculum Direc- 2 configurations afford We, the citizens, parents, teach- parents and their children tor ers and leaders of the Holyoke the opportunity to community have done much to choose two pathways to improve our schools over the high school. Preventing Summer 3 past three years. The 2004-2005 Learning Loss school year is coming to an end Holyoke, with the assis- and I want to share with you tance of the Parent Advi- some of our accomplishments. sory Council, has jointly School Briefs 4 petitioned a judge to We have successfully completed a Sullivan School’s Giranni Peguero (left) and remove forced busing in total alignment of our curriculum Kelsey Brunell (right) read to Dr. Eduardo the Holyoke Public to ensure that every school is Carballo. Schools. This action teaching to the Education Commis- 5 makes more sense for Standards. Our math curriculum schools who need additional help sioner visits Holyoke our children and families. It has program is excellent and we are before they can become true lead to the re-zoning of our very excited about the recent ninth graders. These transitional schools which allows families to improvements that we have seen academies are very important as Talking Points 4 attend the same schools and si- in our students’ performance. All many students in the Holyoke multaneously save the city thou- of our schools have recognized schools prior to this past year sands of dollars on busing. the need to improve mathematics. were going into the ninth grade Therefore schools have increased Our district’s transient rate is unprepared to deal with the rigor- Sports Corner 8 the amount of minutes every child among the highest in the state of ous curriculum of the high spends developing and improving Massachusetts. In order to fight schools. their mathematical knowledge and this problem we have designed a We began to improve our sum- Spanish Highlights 9-12 ability. To accomplish this, teach- pilot program called the Tran- mer school program three years ers are provided with appropriate siency Opportunity Program ago by implementing a scientifi- and targeted professional devel- (TOP) which the State Depart- cally based high interest curricu- opment, coaching, and expanded ment of Education approved. This lum called Voyager. This program course work in mathematics. program allows students in the has provided high quality instruc- Additionally, we brought into the sixth, seventh and eighth grades, tion for about 1200 students district Measures of Academic who come into the city after st, during the summer months. We Progress, an assessment piece October 1 to stabilize in TOP encourage parents to sign their which informs classroom teachers by assessing their academic and children up for our summer about specific skills and standards social service needs and then school so they continue to engage that students still need to master appropriately placing them in a in educational activities during the in math. Assessment information school at the beginning of a new summer months. allows teachers to provide imme- quarter. This allows teachers and diate and appropriate interven- students to continue to stay en- Although we are still under the tions for individual students. gage and maintain the pace neces- watchful eye of the State Depart- Special points of inter- sary to make progress in the ment of Education we continue to We have adopted the Read First classroom with fewer disruptions. improve in our MCAS scores and est: Program Model for early literacy Brown University’s Alliance Cen- we see that our city schools are in three of our schools. This new • Find out how to have fun ter is in the process of evaluating turning around. I want to ex- model, funded by the Department this program for the Department tend my sincere thanks to all our this summer and prevent of Education, has strong assess- of Education, if proven successful, parents, teachers, paraprofession- summer learning loss ment and teacher professional we will continue it with assistance als, counselors, and administra- development at its core. It is a key from our state partner. tors. Everyone has played a role in • Learn how to break the element in improving our school making the Holyoke Public barriers that keep you system and our students’ ability to In continuing to serve our stu- Schools better. Best regards for from being artistic read and write well. dents in need we have developed an enjoyable and safe summer and two Transitional Academies, The three year process of creat- stayed tuned to TV Channel 12 ing four K-8 schools is at its end. which serve students leaving the for important school information. When the school doors open in eighth grades and going into high and updates. Page 2 Connections

Mission Statement Edited by The mission of the Laura DuPont Holyoke Public Schools [email protected] is to provide educational Special Thanks to: opportunities for all Elaine Lathrop, Clara Elliott, Luz Aguilar Joe Kingsley, Judy Williams, Dora Lopez students to reach their full potential in a safe, secure, healthy learning Contributing to this issue: environment while valuing diversity and Chris Van Leeuwen Ray Mitchell Marie Silver promoting responsible Sharon Sampson Ellen Stein Ray Mitchell citizenship. Dr. Lora Barrett Pauline Carriere Liz Zielinski Lee McGarrigle Paul Hyry Andrew Baker Josef Cressotti Winnie Moynihan Rachel Jones Susan Carey

Meet Kimberly Wells, New Curriculum Director sites her analytical sense and Holyoke School the ability to see the big pic- Committee ture. “I have a passion for what I do and a ‘kids first’ Mayor Michael Sullivan attitude”, says Wells. Michael Moriarty As the new curriculum direc- Mary Signet tor, Ms Wells will focus on moving schools and students Yvonne Garcia forward with education re- Barry Conway form. Mollie Plant Susan Carey noted that com- ing from outside the district William A. Collamore will be an advantage for Kim- Margaret Boulais berly Wells. In her opinion, Ms Wells will be better able Gladys Lebron-Martinez Kimberly Wells (left) transitions into her new position with to focus on the key things Susan Carey, outgoing Curriculum Director. Jonathan Allyn with a fresh set of eyes. She understands the connection As Susan Carey prepares to “Kimberly Wells will be ex- between teacher training and step down as Curriculum cellent in the position. She is student achievement and Director for the Holyoke a people person and a good how both are related to as- Public Schools, she has mixed communicator”, said Ms sessment. feelings about leaving her Carey of her successor. post. Although she is senti- Ms Wells is married and has mental about ending her 35 Kimberly Wells, formerly the three year old twins. Upon year career with the district, Academic Quality Controller her retirement, Ms Carey Susan Carey is optimistic for the Sabis School in plans to spend more time about the person who is tak- Springfield, says she brings with her family. ing her place. passion to her new job. Among her strengths, she Volume 3, Issue 4 Page 3

Families and community play role in preventing The Title 1 Summer summer learning loss Learning At Home By nity. I cannot say enough how College, Holyoke Public Program will assist parents in providing Mayor Michael Sullivan impressed I am every time I Schools, and visit our schools. I find truly Museum. These programs and materials to keep caring educators throughout others would help students by their children learn- our district. I am inspired catapulting them into the next when I see so many high academic year. Teachers will ing all summer long. school students that have been be suggesting that young stu- The program is of- moved to pursue a teaching dents stay focused and engaged fered in Kindergar- career as they leave for higher in learning during July and Au- ten, First and Sec- education. These young citi- gust by sheer instinct and re- zens have been inspired by solve. Parents, friends and ond grades. The summer days of decom- their teachers who have be- caregivers can make a huge pressing are coming upon us. come their heroes and hero- difference by strongly promot- Those days which are greatly ines through their power of ing more reading and less tele- needed but unfortunately are caring and promoting academ- vision. This is easier said than of less educational value. ics. I am particularly happy to done but getting a child to Summer Maybe everyone’s energy is see such “progress” because read even 15 minutes a day, Learning Loss: sapped from being involved so often I hear from the more less than 2 hours a week, will impressionable middle school produce significant results in Prevention Tips with a season of testing. Stu- for Parents and dents, faculty and staff have left students that they either want the following year on test it all on paper, literally and to play in the NBA or be a scores. I know that for some Students figuratively. There may have crime scene investigator. I students this is not going to In addition to the been a time in the past when hope all of Holyoke recognizes happen even if the mayor learning opportunities students and faculty could use that teachers are much more hopes. Yet if a few students offered in the summer the sultry days of June and July important to the future of our are inspired to hone their skills program, here are a to kick back and relax; we are community than any member during the summer break the few ideas to keep now living in different times. of the NBA. result will be more academic youngsters’ minds Pushed by constant testing, successes next spring. active over the next I hope every member of this few months: MCAS and the Academic great community continues to Good luck this summer to all Yearly Progress (AYP), and encourage students not to faculty, staff and administration. When traveling on along with the backdrop of real spend the summer losing their I hope the summer break vacation, encourage life, these challenges could be academic ground. There are brings you renewed inspiration children to keep a seen by the faint of heart as so many educational enrich- and an opportunity to reflect journal of activities insurmountable. ment programs throughout on how important the work they do. To sharpen math skills, ask children Holyoke that will help keep you do and do well is to our No one person can understand to calculate the mileage students on track for the fol- society. The future is truly in all the nuances that face all our between home and the students any more than one lowing year. Opportunities your collective hands. To our destination. standard test will ever capture for further learning are avail- precious students, play it smart the real learning which hap- able at the Holyoke Public this summer, read! Adults and children alike can benefit from pens in every school commu- Library, Holyoke Community taking a neighborhood walk and talking about what they see along the way. Talking is a great ELL Core Team presents work at state conference way to boost language and vocabulary devel- where the program is today, opment, which in turn, cation's Sheltered English may help children be- and plans for the future. Immersion Initiative since come better readers. August 2003 to plan and de- The Holyoke Core Team Children can also prac- velop an ELL program for the representatives are (from left tice their literacy skills district. In May 2005, the to right) Debra Sherburne, by reading signs and Core Team presented its two Marie Cole, Aliza Pluta, ELL other environmental years of work at a statewide Program Supervisor David print. The Holyoke Public Schools ELL conference. The presen- Valade, Martha Owen, and ELL Core team has worked tation reviewed the initial John Roth. with the Department of Edu- stages of implementation,

Page 4 Connections

student who reads 5 books and obtains their trip to Yale University where forty lucky 8th parent’s or guardian’s signature will be en- grade Peck Middle School students were tered in a drawing for prizes at the start of able to attend. Students were provided with the new school year. Four different pam- an hour long informational session that con- phlets will be available with title suggestions sisted of the numerous majors offered by the and Web sites for parents to find other read- college, why education is important, and what ing and summer fun information for students students should be doing to get ready for in K-Grade1, Grades 2-3, Grades 4-6, and college, and the different payment options for Grades 7-8. It has been a busy READING college. Mr. Jackson, an Admissions Coun- year at Sullivan School – over 100 students selor for Yale University, discussed scholar- participated in READ ACROSS ships, financial aid, work-study and student AMERICA in March and over loans as a form of paying for college. Immedi- Lynch Middle School students serve guests 9,000 books have been circu- ately after the informational session the stu- at Family Night. lated from the school library. dents were taken on a campus tour. Stu- It will also be a busy but relax- dents were able to see the exquisite Ivy Lynch Middle School hosted its annual ing READING summer for League college dorms and where classes are Family Night on Wednesday, May 4. For the Sullivan students. held. Then in the afternoon they concluded fifth year in a row, students and their families with lunch in one of Yale’s dining facilities. were treated to an excellent dinner catered This provided the Peck students with a “real” by Dean Technical’s Culinary Arts Program. The fifth, sixth and seventh grade students at college life experience. By the time Peck Over two hundred people attended the Donahue School have together created a students left Yale they not only felt a true event, including honored guests Mayor Mi- school newspaper, The Captain’s Gazette. sense of what college is like, but that Yale or chael Sullivan and Chief Anthony Scott. This newspaper includes student stories and any other college they choose can be a reality art work. The Captain’s Gazette includes if they work hard and reach for their dreams. Those in attendance were able to enjoy not columns for music, fashion, local news, sports only the delicious food served by students and other items. The student newspaper and teachers, but also the chance to see the provides a forum for students to take leader- students’ creativity and intellect on display. ship roles and increased responsibility during The top school-wide science fair projects the year, helping in various facets of produc- lined the corridor, with students on hand to tion. The students practice their Eng- explain them to the visiting judges and curi- lish/Language Arts by writing and also prac- ous onlookers. Judging the science fair were tice their academic skills such as mathematics students from Holyoke Community College while compiling poll results in pie charts. and a representative from the Holyoke Con- The newspaper has also given students a servation Commission. Emmanuel Sanchez forum for asking those difficult questions and Miguel Vasquez took top honors for the regarding friendship and other teenage issues entire school. Pictured in front of the giant phoenix are that they may have. They submit anonymous (back left to right) Mr. Anthony Papuga, Also on view were posters celebrating the questions to an anonymous advice column Rufino Rivera, Xavier Reyes, Shawn Gar- dinosaur tracks in Holyoke, sponsored by the called Ask Mrs. G. (answered by the teacher cia, Mr. Paul Gaudin; (front) Mr. Rafael Holyoke Conservation Commission. Alicia who advises the column, Miss Gabriel, the Gomez, Jasimine Brito, Nahiomy Her- Zoeller, the Director of the Conservation seventh grade math teacher. nandez. Commission, and Mayor Sullivan presented the district-wide awards. Four of the awards were given to Lynch students, including Ra- Over 425 parents at- Students in Mr. Paul Gaudin’s class at HAP chel Wolff for second place, Samantha Bechta tended EN White’s created a larger-than-life phoenix in the class- for third, Crystal Rivera for honorable men- spring parent/teacher room. The project, made with papier mache, tion, and Andrew Delvalle for “Most Artis- conferences. Each family was part of an adventure unit which focused tic.” who attended both a conference and visited on everyday life. Students did research and the PTO’s bookfair was invited to make free wrote stories accompanied by digital images.

ice cream sundaes. This successful event was The idea for construction of the phoenix As summer approaches Sullivan School a lot of fun for the E.N. White community. In came from student Shawn Garcia. He said, “I students are looking forward to relaxing and addition, the bookfair, which sold both Scho- learned where the phoenix came from, its READING. During the last week of school, lastic and Usborne books, raised over $600 history and what kind of bird it was”. Ac- students will receive pamphlets highlighting in free books for the library and Books for cording to members of the class, creating the some of the 2005 Notable Children’s Books Bingo program. structure helped them to know each other from the American Library Association along better and get along. They also said it helped with other title suggestions for summer read- them to get to know the teacher better. ing. A “Reading Log” will be included and any On April 13, 2005 GEAR UP sponsored a Volume 3, Issue 4 Page 5

GED Distance Learning Program Hits its Stride

Several community partner organizations are contributing to the ongoing development of the project through participat- ing in its Advisory Board and The Juntos making their facilities available Distance Learning for program participants’ use, Project is designed including: CareerPoint; the for adults who have HALO Center; Light of Resto- ration Ministries; MCDI- a lot of initiative Holyoke; the New England and self-discipline Members of the Advisor Board meet regularly to discuss plans and Farmworkers’ Council; and the receive updates. From right to left are: Ervin Santiago, SusanDixon, Holyoke Public Library. In Luz Thomas, Laura DuPont, Emily Fox and Paul Hyry. addition, the HPS Technology Department is running the GED Connections video series, The Holyoke Public School bination of computers, videos, which is at the center of the system is a proud sponsor of a and workbooks to engage in program’s English GED cur- new, high-tech program that is “anytime/anywhere learning”— riculum, on Channel 12 beginning to make a real differ- that is, studying independently (Holyoke’s educational cable ence to adults interested in on a schedule that meets their channel) several times daily. achieving their high school own needs. The program is For more information about equivalence certificate. The offered in both English and this exciting program, contact Juntos Distance Learning Spanish. Ervin Santiago at the Greater Project is designed for adults The Juntos Distance Learning Holyoke Chamber of Com- Students from who have a lot of initiative and Project is operated by the merce (534-3376). Also, if you Mrs. Lajoie’s self-discipline, and who want to Greater Holyoke Chamber of are interested in serving as a READ 180 get their GED but are unable Commerce, with funding sup- tutor for adults in the Juntos class at Peck to participate in existing classes port from the Massachusetts Distance Learning Program, School re- due either to schedule con- Department of Education and contact Emily Fox at the same cently held a straints or program waitlists. the Holyoke Public Schools. number (534-3376). Museum Book Participants work with a com- Tour. The students created Museum books based on the award HHS students talk to Education Commissioner winning novel, The Tale of Despereaux by Kate Di about MCAS Camillo. Parents and staff were invited to the Mu- On May 23rd, a group of stu- tion of the “underperforming seum tour where they dent government members label” even if MCAS scores are were treated to a deli- met with Dr. David Driscoll, raised, and the issue of spend- cious “Castle” cake the Commissioner of Education. ing so much time preparing for students made themselves At the center of the discussion MCAS and not enough time as well as other refresh- was the impact MCAS testing preparing for things like the ments. was having on students since SAT. the district has been declared Commissioner Driscoll chal- underperforming. lenged students to see what The meeting was set up by they could do in their school Emily Levine of Northampton to help students prepare for High School who is on the cally agreed to meet with the MCAS. He commented after Stu- students. the meeting that the students dent Advisory Council. Her Concerns addressed in the were very open and honest. invitation to the commissioner students’ questions included He added that people in the was prompted by the concerns socio-economic factors of schools have worked very that Holyoke students shared Holyoke, the demographic hard. “I’m very hopeful. I think in the regional council meet- make-up of other underper- good things are going to hap- ings. Dr. Driscoll enthusiasti- forming districts, the eradica- pen here in Holyoke. Page 6 Connections

On Being an Artist

By a LONG time. I have taught ened and changed the way I make art, the way I teach. “Fill Dr. Lora McNeece Barrett many of you in the community, two sketch books with obser- Art Department Head and after lots of experimenting vational drawing, and then I have boiled most of what I come back,” she said. So I did. have learned about making art Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) once And she was right. I got better, to two things. First, in order to said “Every child is an artist. not worse. Was it easy? No, make art you must believe you The problem is how to remain but it has made a difference. can, and secondly, you need to an artist once he grows up.” There is a direct connect be- know how to OBSERVE. If you tween keen observational Children love to draw. “Look can visualize something, you drawing and strengthening the at my picture,” your child ex- can create it. claims excitedly. While some- intellect. When you practice times the images may seem It’s not a mystery, it’s not drawing, you help your brain strange or foreign to the adult about a “gift” reserved for a process how it handles infor- eye, the young child can de- special few. Those who we mation. Take an orange and scribe, in minute detail, what perceive of as artists have only cereal box, for example: “First, in order to figured out how to OBSERVE, the images are, where the im- • look at the edges make art you must ages are located, and what the how to SEE and how to trans- • look at the shapes believe you can, and images are doing. If one listens late what they see onto a sur- face. Making art is making • look at the contrasts be- secondly, you need to to the child repeat the descrip- tion even a day later, the narra- marks, making symbols that tween light and dark know how to tive is the same. The child represent something. What’s • look at the relationships in OBSERVE. If you can knows what the images repre- wrong with stick figures as size representation? Nothing. visualize something, sent in his or her mind; they are not random images, not What’s wrong with J to repre- you can create it.” Think about it. Study it. Try made up. Drawing is expressing sent happiness or a smile? drawing the orange and the oneself in non-verbal language. Nothing. Then why do we say cereal box, over and over and But somewhere in between the that we can’t draw? Ridiculous. over. Don’t look at the paper, Dr. Lora Barrett innocence of childhood and Handwriting is making marks. If look at the objects. At first the onset of adulthood, we one can write, one can draw. learn to recite the dangerous Drawing is nothing more than it’s not about drawing “a pretty words, “I can’t draw a straight representing images. picture,” it’s about strengthen- ing the connection between the line with a ruler.” The child You can never do too much eye and the brain. Think about heard those words, looks at his drawing. About eight years ago, professional athletes and pro- or her images, and thinks “gee, when I was struggling myself in fessional musicians. They prac- maybe I can’t draw after all,” a painting class where I found tice every single day. Why and the joy of making art and myself the least skilled member should becoming an artist be making marks is stripped from of the group, the instructor any different? the young artist. I have been took me aside and gave me teaching art and making art for some advice that has strength-

Sweet rewards for meeting the grade

Holyoke High School’s Ren- donated by the Starfish Foundation. aissance program honored close to 300 students who Renaissance is a national pro-

have met academic and atten- gram which rewards students dance requirements for the for both academic achieve- third quarter. On May 20th, ment and improvement as the students were treated to well as attendance and disci- (Above) Sophmores Jose a “Make Your Own Sundae” pline excellence. The program party. Maldonado (left) and Naylyn started at the school last year. Rodriguez enjoy a sundae. A highlight of the party was Kenny Lauzier is in the photo at the drawing for ten seasons left. passes at Six Flags which were Volume 3, Issue 4 Page 7

EN White School staff raised $2800 for “Relay for Life”, a fund- raiser for the American Cancer Society. The The Holyoke Public Schools welcomes Mi- chael Hines as the new communications event took place at Holyoke Community specialist in the media center He is working College, Friday May 13th with Laura DuPont to develop programming through the Saturday, for Channels 12 and 15. Prior to coming to May 14th and was a great HPS, Michael worked as a photographer / success. Thanks to Kim editor at ABC40 for the past 17 years. Kisiel and Julie Griffin for organizing the “Relay” and to all who con- tributed. 2002 Dean Tech graduate, Yasser Men- wer, was honored at the school recently by Art teachers Dr. the Air National Guard. Yasser was chosen Lora Barrett, Anne from among 1600 airmen as the 2005 Massa- Charron and Phil chusetts National Guardsman of the year. Christofori each During the school assembly, Yasser received donated a framed a certificate of recognition and was com- piece of their art- mended as the person who did the most for work to the the his country. Yasser addressed the student 100th Birthday Party body and credited his family, the Dean fac- of Rotary Interna- ulty, and the computer technology program tional. The event, at Dean. He specifically praised two teach- which is scheduled on June 11th at Open ers, Mrs. Mary Allen and Mr. Lenny Gibbons. Square on Lyman Street, will showcase Holy- He said they helped define who he was and Michael Hines joined the media center in oke Public Schools’ arts programs The do- kept him in check. April. nated artwork by the three teachers will be After serving in the Air National Guard, used to raise funds for musical instruments Yasser plans to return to Holyoke and run for the schools. for public office.

Coming Up The Peck Extreme Make Over 2005 Edition on HPS 12 The art department at Peck just titude of colors that now cover a taken by the visual life that has won’t quit. The students are once dark green wallscape. The been breathed into the building. • GED Connections demanding, and the staff is em- adults in the building were hesi- Comments like, “I love what Monday - Friday you’ve done with the place!” and bracing murals, murals, murals! tant to comment, not sure what 9am,12pm,3pm,6pm The students and faculty have to expect and uncomfortable “It’s so nice to see you working completed more than 60 murals with the changes. as a team,” have been abundant. • In– Focus inspired by artists like O’Keeffe Students come to the art rooms Dr. Eduardo Carballo Time will always tell. This year and Klee and local talent like and ask, “Can I paint in the hall hosts this series of pro- while hanging a new set of paint- students Christian Cabrera, with you?” These small, and grams which delves into ings celebrating the artist Jacob Crystal Jones, and Edwin Matos seemingly mundane conversa- topics regarding educa- Lawrence, an African American to name just a few. A makeover tions express the desire by all to painter who painted street life in tion in the district. in attitude has been experienced work and learn in a stimulating, Harlem, a few comments were • Around the Schools as well. exciting, art-rich, environment. over heard. “Where is mine, To all the students and staff at Students Liz Maldonado Last year when the “make over” Miss?” “Oh, that one is nice. I Peck Middle School, thank you and Patrick Harris host began there was a fear of change. like the monochromatic colors,” for your time and patience while Students were not happy with and “Who painted them? They undergoing the “Peck Extreme this magazine format the new look of the place and did a nice job.” These students Makeover.” show which spotlights made negative comments like, passing by demonstrated the special events in the “this isn’t Northampton” or “it’s emotional shift that has taken schools. too fruity,” to describe the mul- place. Faculty and staff, too are Page 8 Connections

Sports Corner

stuck together and after a slow tournament. They’ve played start they are winning games. some exciting games this year. The boys’ volleyball team won The baseball team is competi- its first match in three years tive every year and this year is and they continue to work no different. They may not hard as a team. The baseball make the tournament but team has had a lot of bad luck. they’ve been exciting to watch. They’ve lost many games by The boys’ volleyball team had a Coach Peter McAndrew one run and/or in extra in- large group for try outs and (back row) with the HHS nings. Their night game against they continue to well repre- girls’ softball team. St. Mary’s High School is going sent the birthplace of volley- to be televised by Comcast ball. The boys’ track team is It’s been quite a wet spring but (Channel 12) which is a first presently in first place in their all the teams at Dean Tech and time event for the team. league and the girls are going are right to have some individuals qualify At Holyoke High School, boys’ for tournament. It has been an on track to finish their seasons tennis is ruling the spring. exciting year for the over on time. At Dean it’s been an They have qualified for both seven hundred team members exciting spring with the first the individual and team tourna- at both schools. Congratula- girls’ softball team in four ments. The softball team is tions to all of them and see years. All eighteen girls have close to qualifying for their you in the fall.

Connecticut in the Classroom Hosts an Art Show Students from the third and fifth animals and made scientific grade saw their art on display at drawings. On May 25th in the the end of May in Open Square evening, students and their Gallery in downtown Holyoke. families were invited to a show This past year, educators from that exhibited all of the work in Enchanted Circle Theater and a giant gallery in the old Lyman Hitchcock Center for the Envi- Mill. The project was a part of ronment visited all third and the 6 year old Connecticut in fifth grade classes to explore the Classroom program that topics about the Connecticut also includes the Children's River and fuse science and art. Museum and is funded by a Some classes made collages that grant from the Massachusetts graphically displayed animal Cultural Council. adaptation. Others studied live Holyoke Creative Arts This is the summer to get creative Center The Holyoke conditioned facility (each class To register, call HCAC during Creative has a posted age range). Schol- office hours Monday— 400 South Elm Street Arts Center arships are available to income- Thursday 9:00a.m.—1:00p.m. P.O. Box 4998 (HCAC) is eligible youth and adults. Regis- at (413)-532-0465 or visit the offering a trations are accepted first Web site at South Street Plaza summer come, first served. www.holyokecac.org program of Fine Arts and Classes run when minimum off I-391 Registration forms are online Home Crafts classes for Pio- enrollment is reached. Summer and can be printed. Ask HCAC Holyoke, MA 01041 neer Valley youth and adults youth arts classes include Car- administrators for class de- from July 11—August 18th. tooning, Celtic Calligraphy, scriptions and materials / One and two week classes for Creative Drawing Crafts, equipment lists. young people ages 8-17 will be Drama, Jewelry Making and offered weekday mornings and Crafts, Digital Photography, afternoons in the Center’s air- Reading Group and Sewing. Estos son los puntos mas Holyoke Public Schools

sobresalientes del Boletin Volume 3, Issue 3 Verano 2005

Cambios caracterizan el año escolar 2004-2005

Por matemáticas. Además, adaptamos al Este programa permite a estudiantes en distrito Medidas de Progreso Académico y sextos, séptimos y octavos grados, que se Dr. Eduardo B. Carballo Superintendente de Escuelos asesoramientos que informan a los registran después del 1 de octubre, maestros sobre las habilidades específicas y estabilizarse en el Programa “TOP” estándares que los estudiantes necesitan evaluando sus necesidades de servicio aprender en matemáticas. La evaluación académico y social para ubicándolos permite a los maestros poner en prácticas apropiadamente a principios de un nuevo intervenciones inmediatas y apropiadas trimestre. Esto permite a los maestros y a para cada estudiante. los estudiantes continuar su progreso en el salón de clases con menos interrupciones. También adoptamos el programa de Lectura “Read First” en tres escuelas. Este El Centro de Alianza de la Universidad nuevo modelo, financiado por el (Brown) está en el proceso de evaluar este Departamento de Educación, tiene una programa para el Departamento de evaluación intensa y su esencia es el Educación, de ser probado exitosamente, desarrollo profesional de maestros. Esto es continuaremos con la ayuda de nuestro un elemento clave en el mejoramiento de asociado estatal. nuestro sistema escolar y así darles la Para continuar sirviendo a nuestros capacidad a nuestros estudiantes para leer Giranni Peguero (izquierda) y Kelsey Brunell estudiantes hemos desarrollado dos y escribir bien. (derecha) de la Escuela de Sullivan le leen a Academias de Transición para esos Dr. Eduardo Carballo. El proceso de implementar escuelas de estudiantes que salen de octavo grado y kindergarten al octavo grado está a su final. aun necesitan ayuda adicional antes de Cuando las escuelas abran sus puertas en entrar a la secundaria. Estas academias son septiembre de 2005, Holyoke tendrá muy importantes ya que algunos Con el propósito de mejorar nuestras cuatro (4) escuelas de kindergarten al estudiantes entran al noveno grado sin la escuelas; durante los tres últimos años; octavo grado, dos (2) escuelas secundarias preparación necesaria que el plan de nosotros, los ciudadanos, padres, maestros y tres (3) escuelas de kindergarten al estudios requiere en las escuelas y líderes de la comunidad de Holyoke quinto grado. Estas configuraciones secundarias. escolares permiten a los padres y a sus hemos puesto en práctica muchos Mejoramos nuestro programa de verano niños la oportunidad de elegir dos caminos cambios. poniendo en práctica un plan de estudios a la escuela secundaria. Con la llegada del final del año escolar de gran interés científico llamado Voyager. 2004-2005 quiero compartir con ustedes Holyoke, con la asistencia del Consejo Este programa ha dado una instrucción de nuestros logros. Hemos completado Asesor de Padres, ha presentado una alta calidad para aproximadamente 1200 exitosamente una estandarización total de solicitud judicial para cambiar el transporte estudiantes durante los meses de verano. nuestros planes de estudio para asegurar requerido en las Escuelas Públicas de Animamos a los padres a matricular a sus que cada escuela enseñe de acuerdo con Holyoke. Este cambio tiene es más efectivo niños para nuestros cursos de verano para los Estándares de Massachussets. Nuestro para nuestros niños y familias. Este originó que ellos continúen involucrándose en programa de matemáticas es excelente y el cambio de zonas para nuestras escuelas, actividades educativas. la cual permite que las familias asistan a las estamos muy satisfechos con el progreso Aunque todavía estamos bajo el ojo mismas escuelas y simultáneamente que nuestros estudiantes han alcanzado. vigilante del Departamento de Educación ahorrar miles de dólares en gasto de Todas nuestras escuelas reconocen la del Estado continuamos mejorando transportación. necesidad de mejorar las matemáticas, por nuestros puntajes en la prueba MCAS y lo tanto, las escuelas han aumentado el Nuestro porcentaje de estudiantes vemos que nuestras escuelas están número de minutos de instrucción para transeúntes es el más alto en el estado de cambiando. Quiero extender mi más cada niño para desarrollo y mejoramiento Massachussets. A fin de solucionar este sincero agradecimiento a todos nuestros de su conocimiento y capacidades en problema hemos diseñado un programa padres, maestros, para-profesionales, matemáticas. Para lograr este objetivo, llamado: Programa de Oportunidad de consejeros, y administradores. Cada uno nosotros proveemos a los maestros con el Transitoriedad (TOP) aprobado por el ha desempeñado un papel en el éxito de desarrollo y entrenamiento profesional Departamento de Educación del Estado. las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke. Mis adecuado, y extenso cursos en Page 10 Connections

Las familias y la comunidad desempeñan el papel prevenir la pérdida de aprendizaje en el verano

By nuestros estudiantes más que una disponibles en la Biblioteca Mayor Michael Sullivan prueba estándar capturará alguna Pública de Holyoke, en Holyoke vez el verdadero aprendizaje que Community College (Colegio de pasa en cada comunidad escolar. la Comunidad de Holyoke), las No puedo decir mucho de como Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke y el estoy de impresionado cada que Museo Wistariahurst. Estos pro-

visito nuestras escuelas. Encuen- gramas y otros ayudarían a los tro educadores realmente hu- estudiantes lanzándolos al manitarios en todas partes de próximo año académico. Los nuestro distrito. Estoy inspirado maestros sugerirán que los

cuando veo a tantos estudiantes estudiantes jóvenes sigan enfoca- de escuela secundaria que han dos e involucrados en el aprendi- sido movidos para seguir una car- zaje durante julio y agosto por rera de enseñanza cuando ellos instinto y se resuelva. Los padres, se van para una educación supe- los amigos pueden hacer una gran rior. Estos jóvenes ciudadanos diferencia promoviendo más lec- Los días de descompresión de han sido inspirados por sus maes- tura y menos televisión. Este es verano ya vienen. Aquellos días tros que se son sus héroes y un dicho más fácil que un hecho, que son enormemente necesa- heroínas por su gran preocu- pero hacer que un niño lea por lo rios, pero lamentablemente son pación y promoción académica. menos 15 minutos por día, de menos valor educativo. Tal Estoy muy feliz de ver tal menos de 2 horas por semana, vez la energía de todo el mundo "progreso" porque muy a producirá resultados significativos es zapada de ser implicada con menudo tengo noticias impre- para el año siguiente en los pun- una temporada de pruebas. Los sionables de los estudiantes de tajes de exámenes. Sé que para estudiantes, la facultad y el per- escuela secundaria que ellos algunos estudiantes este no va a sonal han dejado todo sobre pa- quieren jugar en la NBA o ser un pasar aun si el alcalde lo desea. pel, literalmente y figuradamente. investigador de escena de delito. Aún si algunos estudiantes son Puede haber habido un tiempo en Espero que todo Holyoke re- inspirados a afilar sus habilidades el pasado cuando los estudiantes conozca que los maestros son durante el verano, el resultado y la facultad podrían usar los días mucho más importantes para el será más éxitos académicos la bochornosos de junio y julio para futuro de nuestra comunidad que próxima primavera. dejar todo atrás y relajarse; ahora cualquier miembro del NBA. Buena suerte este verano a toda vivimos en tiempos diferentes. Espero que cada miembro de esta la facultad, personal y adminis- Empujados por pruebas con- gran comunidad continue ani- tración. Deseo que el verano le stantes, el MCAS y el Progreso mando a los estudiantes a no traiga la inspiración renovada y Annual Académico (AYP), y junto pasar el verano perdiendo ter- una oportunidad de reflexionar con el telón de la verdadera vida, reno académico. Hay tantos pro- sobre como importante es el tra- estos retos podrían ser vistos gramas de enriquecimiento edu- bajo que haces y hace bien es a por el desmayo del corazón cativos en todas partes de Holy- nuestra sociedad. El futuro está como insuperables. oke que ayudará a mantener a los realmente en sus manos colecti- Nadie puede entender todos los estudiantes sobre la tierra para el vas. ¡A nuestros preciosos estudi- matices que afrontan a todos próximo año. Las oportunidades antes, juéguelo bien este verano, del aprendizaje adicional están lea! Volume 3, Issue 4 Page 11

Programa de Aprendizaje para Adultos da un Paso grande con el financiamento del Departa- mento de Educación de Massachu- setts y de las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke. Varias organizaciones de la comunidad contribuyen al desarrollo del proyecto con la participación del Consejo y ponen a disposición sus instalaciones para el uso de los par- ticipantes en el programa, incluyendo:

CareerPoint; el Centro de HALO; los Ministerios de Restauración; MCDI- Holyoke; y el Concilio de Traba- Los miembros del Consejo Asesor se reunen con regularidad para hab- lar de proyectos y recibir actualizaciones. De derecha a izquierda se jadores de Finca en Nueva Inglaterra. encuentran: Ervin Santiago, SusanDixon, Luz Thomas, Laura DuPont, Además, el Departamento de Tec- Emily Fox y Paul Hyry. nología de las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke tiene una serie de videos El Sistema de las Escuelas Públicas de debido al horario o a la lista de es- para el GED, que está en el centro Holyoke es un patrocinador orgul- pera en los programas existentes. Los del plan de estudios del programa de loso de un programa nuevo de alta participantes trabajan con una combi GED en inglés, en el Canal 12 (el ca- tecnología que comienza a hacer una nación de computadoras, videos y nal de cable educativo de Holyoke) verdadera diferencia para adultos cuadernos de ejercicios para involu- dos veces al día. interesados en lograr obtener su cer- crarse en el aprendizaje “en cualquier tificado de equivalencia de escuela momento/en todas partes” - es decir secundaria (GED). El Proyecto de estudiando independientemente en Para más información sobre este pro- Aprendizaje a través de una Dis- un horario apropiado a sus necesi- grama emocionante, póngase en con- tancia, (Juntos Distance Learn- dades. El programa es ofrecido tanto tacto con Ervin Santiago en la Cámara ing Project) está diseñado para en inglés como en español. de Comercio de Holyoke al tel. adultos que tienen mucha iniciativa y (534-3376). También, si usted está autodisciplina y desean obtener la interesado en ser un tutor para adul- equivalencia de escuela secundaria El Proyecto de Aprendizaje a través tos en el Programa de Aprendizaje, (GED), pero no han podido participar de una Distancia - (Juntos Distance póngase en contacto con Emily Fox al de las clases actuales Learning Project) es operada por la mismo número (534-3376). Cámara de Comercio de Holyoke, el Grupo de Aprendizaje de Lenguaje Inglés presenta trabajo en la conferencia del estado

las Escuelas Públicas de presentación examino las primeras Holyoke ha trabajado etapas de desarrollo del programa, con el Departamento su estado actual y los planes futuros. de Educación para Los representantes del Grupo planear y desarrollar Central de Holyoke son (de un programa en la izquierda a derecha) Debra Inmersión de Lenguaje Sherburne, Marie Cole, Aliza Pluta, Inglés para el distrito. Supervisor del Programa de En mayo de 2005, el Lenguaje Inglés, DAVID VALADE, Grupo Central Martha Owen y John Roth. Desde agosto de 2003, el Grupo de presentó sus dos años de trabajo en Aprendizaje de Lenguaje Inglés de una conferencia estatal. La Page 12 Connections

Presentando a Kimberly Wells, La Nueva Directora de Currículo

Susan Carey se prepara visualizar globalmente el distrito. “Tengo para su retiro como pasión por mi trabajo y una actitud donde Directora de Currículo de los niños son los primordiales” dice Wells. las Escuelas Públicas de Como la Directora de Currículo, la Sra. Holyoke. Aunque ella está Wells se concentrará en progresar las sentimental sobre el final escuelas y los estudiantes en una reforma de su carrera de 35 años educativa. en el distrito, Susan Carey es optimista sobre su Susan Carey mencionó que venir fuera del sucesora. distrito, es una ventaja para Kimberly En su opinión, la Sra. Wells podrá “Kimberly Wells será concentrase en el trabajo en una manera excelente en la posición. fresca. Ella entiende la conexión entre el Ella es una persona adiestramiento profesional y el progreso amigable y es una buena estudiantil y como ambos están comunicadora”, dijo la Sra. Carey. relacionados con el asesoramiento. En una Kimberly Wells (izquierda)se ubicará Kimberly Wells, anteriormente trabajó nota personal. la Sra. Wells es casada y en su nueva posición como Directora para la Escuela Sabis en Springfield como tiene gemelos de tres años. Con respeto a de Currículo, cogiendo la posición de la Controladora de Calidad Académica. la Sra. Carey, ella planea pasar más tiempo Susan Carey quien estará dejando Ella dice que trae consigo su pasión por su con su familia después de su retiro. trabajo. Entre sus cualidades, ella cita su su puesto. sentido analítico y la capacidad de

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