The Common
December 8, 2023
Superintendent Update
Dear Nashoba Families,
This week I want to give you an update on our search for a permanent Director of Pupil Personnel Services. First off, I am changing the title of PPS Director to the Director of Student Services. I believe this new title reflects the breadth and depth of work that is expected in this very important role. Next, our Human Resources department has reached out to SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council) leadership to engage parents in the search process for our new leader. Finally, the position is currently posted and applicants can begin to submit their applications.
You can view the ”Invitation to Apply” and the updated job description by clicking on the embedded links. We have many residents and families who have ties to educational leaders. If you know a highly qualified candidate who may be interested in applying to be our next leader of student services, please do not hesitate to forward this email.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Peace,
Kirk Downing
(He/Him)
“Be your best self. Pave your path. Impact the world.”
News from the Department of Teaching and Learning
Update: 9-12 Science Curriculum Review and Phase 1 Progress
The Nashoba Regional School District is currently in Phase 1 of the 9-12 science curriculum review cycle. During this phase, the high school science department is addressing two essential questions: What should our instructional vision be, and how well do our current teaching methods, curricula, and materials support student learning?
The specific tasks in Phase 1 include:
- Developing a clear instructional vision, identifying key priorities, and recognizing needs.
- Gathering data to assess the current state of the science curriculum, its resources, and its impact on student learning.
- Evaluating the role of instructional technology in enhancing student learning.
- Considering the need for new core curriculum materials to support effective, aligned instruction.
The high school science department is actively working on crafting an instructional vision that aligns with our goal of preparing students for the ever-changing field of science. This vision takes into account our Portrait of a Nashoba Graduate competencies, feedback from students via our Panorama survey administrations, and input from families. During today's early release professional development session, a key objective was to finalize the initial draft of this instructional vision and determine the most effective method for gathering feedback from families.
In addition to these efforts, the department has been evaluating existing curricular materials. For instance, our AP Biology course has piloted a new interactive content resource called Visible Bodies, and its impact is being assessed for potential use in other courses. Furthermore, department members attended the Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers (MAST) conference with Curriculum Director Kandice McBrearty to explore new instructional tools and classroom strategies. They have also dedicated time to observe our middle school classrooms, where OpenSciEd, high-quality instructional materials for science, are currently being implemented.
Nashoba DECA's Record-Breaking Mock Competition: Gearing Up for State-Level Success
Nashoba DECA hosted its annual Mock Competition last Friday. Over 300 students showcased their business presentations to 60+ judges from our local community. The Mock Competition prepares Nashoba DECA for its first competition of the year coming up on January 10 at Umass Lowell. Our DECA chapter has grown to a record 261 members this year, currently the third-largest chapter in the state. Thank you to all the members of our community that participated and good luck to Nashoba DECA this year!
News from Department of the Pupil Personnel Services
The Little Friends Preschool program (“Flexible Research based Inclusive Experiences with Needs Driven Supports) is located at the Mary Rowlandson Elementary School. The students are learning social skills through integration. They are also participating in activities that build their physical, play, language, literacy, math, and overall school readiness skills. Strategies recommended by the Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Pathologist, and Physical Therapist are incorporated throughout the day.
Nashoba Notable Award! Thank a Nashoba Employee!
Celebrating everyday greatness! Is there a Nashoba teacher or staff member out there who you think deserves some special recognition? Send a Nashoba Notable Award their way! Fill out the form below and thank a Nashoba employee today!
Nashoba Notable Awards thank Nashoba employees for supporting students, families, and their school communities in all ways great and small.
Employees will receive a certificate that includes a brief explanation from the nominator of why they are Nashoba Notable. This form is open to everyone. Students, families, staff and community members can send a Nashoba Notable Award to any Nashoba employee.
There is no limit to the number of Nashoba Notable Awards someone may receive. Thank a Nashoba employee today!
This Week at Nashoba
Florence Sawyer School’s fifth grade chorus concert
Congratulations to the first round of recipients of our Nashoba Portrait of a Graduate Award! These students were nominated by staff members for their outstanding communication skills and how their communication with others has made a positive contribution to our Nashoba community.
From left to right:
Jean DeSouza, Peyton Mora Zuffante, Jennifer White, Hansika Kommanavancha, "Nashy the Wolf," Tyler Mignault, Madison Oxnard, Mathew Egan, Alexis Prybyla
Florence Sawyer family read aloud in Kindergarten
Together, we inspire and challenge all learners to reach their unique potential and become active contributors to their community.