The Common
Hello Nashoba!
On Wednesday at sunset the Muslim tradition of Ramadan began. On April 2nd, Christian observances of Holy Week will begin with the culmination of Easter Sunday on April 9th. Starting the evening of April 5th, and lasting seven days, will be the Jewish observances of Passover. I share these observances with you to recognize the members of our community who are devoted to the traditions of their faith and the activities that come with each faith.
I want our entire community to know that religious activities can impact the time and capacity our students have for school learning. That is why we have updated the language on our 2023-2024 school calendar to reassure families that we respect those traditions and we will support students who may miss school or assignments in order to fulfill their religious obligations. Here is the language posted on the calendar.
Administrators and teachers will schedule events with consideration given to religious holidays and cultural traditions celebrated by our Nashoba community. Students who are absent as a result of their religious or cultural observances will not incur penalties due to that absence. Make-up privileges should be the same as the make-up privileges offered to a student who has an excused absence due to illness. Students and families are encouraged to communicate with teachers or their school principal in advance to make them aware of religious or cultural holidays that may impact their child’s attendance or ability to study or do homework during those observations. To view a list of religious, ethnic and cultural observances that may impact a student’s attendance or school work, please see the Calendar of Observances at www.adl.org/resources/tools-and-strategies/calendar-observances.
I want to wish all of our families peace and joy in the observance of your faith traditions. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Peace,
Kirk Downing
(He/Him)
“Be your best self. Pave your path. Impact the world.”
Race to the Presidency... at the Florence Sawywer School!
Florence Sawyer 8th grade students, under the leadership of Social Studies teacher Thea Tully, have engaged in the Race to Presidency simulation, a multifaceted project based learning opportunity. Students participate in a variety of learning activities as they become a campaign team member or run for President of the United States. The steps to become President are the focus of this project that gives students an authentic voice and teaches collaboration and team building skills. Students research current, real world issues, prepare platforms for candidates, learn about the electoral process through participating in each stage, including fundraising, campaigning, debates, and the primary election.
This week, the candidates for the Y party, Conor Paper and running mate for Vice President, Daniel Toland, faced off against the Z party candidate, Lily Vancura and her running mate for Vice President, Kate Grutchfield, in a debate, moderated by Mr. Joel Bates, featuring questions from Mrs. Laura Friend and Mrs. Laura Pagington. The candidates were truly impressive in their debate performance. Throughout this project, the work by the 8th grade students has exemplified our Portrait of A Nashoba Graduate competencies. Students demonstrated excellent Communication skills in their research and writing of their party platforms and campaign communications, Creativity in their campaign strategies, Empathy and Culturally Competent Global Citizenship in their party platforms, and Learner's Mindset and Perseverance in their work throughout this project.
This learning opportunity will culminate with the general election next week. Bravo to Mrs. Tully, the 8th grade students, the candidates, and the Florence Sawyer School community for their support of this impressive endeavor!
This week March 21st marked World Down Syndrome day. This day was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.
This year's world campaign theme is "With Us Not For Us." The message is powerful as it "envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities."
One of our own families shared their story this week. It certainly is inspiring and a wonderful example of a family who values and see children with abilities. I hope you will take the time to watch their story here: https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/wednesdays-child-peter-wyman-wbz-tv/
We appreciate the Wyman family sharing their story.
Nashoba Notable Award - Celebrating Everyday Greatness at Nashoba
Celebrating everyday greatness! Is there a Nashoba teacher or staff member out there who you think deserves some special recognition? Send a Nashoba Notable Award their way! Fill out the form below and thank a Nashoba employee today!
Nashoba Notable Awards thank Nashoba employees for supporting students, families, and their school communities in all ways great and small.
Employees will receive a certificate that includes a brief explanation from the nominator of why they are Nashoba Notable. This form is open to everyone. Students, families, staff and community members can send a Nashoba Notable Award to any Nashoba employee.
There is no limit to the number of Nashoba Notable Awards someone may receive. Thank a Nashoba employee today!
