The RISE Report
Weekly Newsletter, May 21, 2023
With Memorial Day approaching soon, I hope you take time to pause and remember all those who have served our great nation and sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Typically celebrated with cookouts and time with family, this is one day we can all come together to honor the memory of those in our Armed Forces.
As we begin these last 4 weeks of school, I want to thank the RISE community for welcoming me in as the Interim Director for the past 8 months. Although I was enjoying my newly retired days last summer, I was more than willing and eager to step in for this year to support the wonderful RISE Preschool Program. Meeting so many new families, working alongside some very talented staff, and seeing your children's love of learning brought joy to each day. It has been an honor to serve this community.
Hopefully, you have all heard the exciting news that RPS has officially hired Kerry Wilcox as the next R.I.S.E. Director. Kerry is currently the Director of the Project Support Preschool in Billerica, and has served as a special education preschool teacher for over 20 years. As Dr. Milaschewski said, "Kerry’s extensive knowledge about both PreK and special education as well as her track record of strong leadership as a PreK Director will be major assets to the R.I.S.E. community." We are thrilled to welcome Kerry, who will begin in her new role on July 1. Kerry and I will be working closely together over the coming weeks and months to ensure a smooth transition before I "get back to retirement"!
As we wind down the year, I also want to remind families to call the absentee line if your child is going to be out for any reason. We do not always know if a child is out when families email the teacher, so please call to let us know. We appreciate your support!
Enjoy the weekend,
~Dr. King
End-of-Year Celebration June 7, 4:30-6:30
Mark your calendars! On Wednesday, June 7th we will be having our amazing end-of-year celebration at Birch Meadow field (across from Coolidge Middle School). Come enjoy lots of cool fun including music, activities, the Kona Ice Truck and a performance by Bubbles McGee! You won't want to miss this as we wrap up a fabulous year and get ready to head into summer!
We will also be offering pizza for families to purchase in advance. If you are interested in ordering pizza for your family, please sign up on this LINK so we have enough pizza on hand. All prices are listed on the link. Once you place your order and pay, you will receive a voucher via email for pizza. You must sign up by June 5 if you want pizza!
Please reach out to our PTN Board if you have any questions!
- Co-Presidents: Meghann Cerratani & Diana Gil
- Vice-President: Rachel Bramante
- Secretary: Corey Mathison
- Treasurer: Courtney Martinello
PTN News...Seeking New Board Member
Co-President Needed:
Our PTN has done some amazing work this year to support the RISE Preschool including providing enrichment opportunities, fundraising events, and gearing up for the end-of-year celebration. This is all due to the work of our board members and some wonderful parent volunteers! We will be holding elections at the upcoming PTN meeting on May 31 and are seeking someone to fill the role of Co-President. Diana Gil is moving onto kindergarten with her family, and we want to thank her for all she has done to support the PTN. She has done a spectacular job! If you are interested in joining the PTN in this shared role, we would love to have you! Please reach out to Dr. King or one of our board members listed below and let us know! Elections for open positions will take place at our final PTN meeting on May 31.
Enrichment Programs:
May 31 and June 1, the Discovery Museums Traveling Workshops will provide a 45-minute workshop on Liquids & Solids to each classroom. Students will investigate the role temperature plays in causing materials to change from solid to liquid or liquid to solid. This is a very engaging science exploration for our youngest learners!
PTN Meeting Dates for 2022-2023:
Meeting dates for the remainder of the year will be on:
- May 31, 7:30-8:30 PM via ZOOM PTN Meeting and Elections
- June 7 End-of-year celebration at Birch Meadow Field, 4:30-6:30 PM
Quick Updates:
The PTN has our own Venmo account set up for donations; @RISEPTN can be used for future transactions, collecting dues and fundraising. There is a small associated fee of 1.9% plus $0.10 per transaction (i.e. on a $100 contribution the fee would be $2.00). We hope this makes it easier for families to help support the PTN.
If you have any questions, or interest in volunteering this year to support our PTN, please reach out to any of our PTN board members. We welcome everyone to join!
- Co-Presidents: Meghann Cerratani & Diana Gil
- Vice-President: Rachel Bramante
- Secretary: Corey Mathison
- Treasurer: Courtney Martinello
Student Safety During Pick Up
We realize families want to connect and socialize, which is so important, but this is not a safe space to have children play. With the most inexperienced drivers often leaving school at this time, and an increase in traffic, we need your help to keep our kids safe! If families want to stay for play, please move to the tot lot on Bancroft Avenue, adjacent to the tennis courts. This is a safe and enclosed space where children can play and parents can socialize. We appreciate everyone's support!
Teacher Tributes
As the 2022/2023 school year comes to a close, it’s a great time to thank a Reading school teacher, staff member or administrator. Reading Education Foundation’s Teacher and Staff Tribute allows you to say thanks while also supporting Reading Public Schools and your PTO. Grants can be purchased online at readingef.org for $25 each. To ensure personal delivery to the staff member, grants need to be purchased by June 2.
How does a Teacher Tribute work?
- The recipient will receive a tribute card with a personalized message from you.
- The tributes are publicized each year as a way to further recognize those teachers, staff members and administrators who have gone above and beyond.
- Donations will support REF teacher grants AND your school’s PTO (sharing 30% of profit of each grant sold).
What is REF? Reading Education Foundation (REF) is a non-profit foundation committed to supporting innovation and excellence in the Reading Public Schools. Our goal is to enhance and increase educational opportunities for all Reading students by providing funds for projects that go beyond the scope of traditional classroom learning.
You may know of REF from its annual Festival of Trees fundraiser. This holiday fundraiser funds the REF-awarded grants. These grants support RPS teachers as they strive to bring creativity, collaboration, communication, empathy, and innovation skills into the classroom. Recent examples include a seismometer for cross curriculum learning, audiobooks to enhance school libraries and robotics kits for hands-on application of lessons.
Are you interested in learning more about REF and how you can get involved? We are also seeking volunteers and new Board Members to join us! We are looking for individuals who can serve as Treasurer, support IT/computer needs and help with Corporate Giving. We are also seeking volunteers to assist with the Festival of Trees. REF is a great way to engage with access RPS administration and learn more about our schools. Check out our volunteer page, download the REF Application for Board Membership or contact us for more information about this inspiring opportunity!
Did you know May is better hearing and speech month?
Throughout the month of May, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) focuses on raising awareness about communication disorders and the role of ASHA members (SLPs and Audiologists) in providing life-altering treatment!
Specifically, the focus this year has been on identification of the early warning signs of a speech-language or hearing disorder. Whether for your own use as parents, caregivers, relatives, or spouses and/or as teachers within the classroom, ASHA has created information sheets regarding early learning signs for various areas within our field (see PDF below) for more information.
Looking for some play ideas?
Our very talented OT, Linda Boyages, has created lots of fun spring activities using a hole punch, fidget toys, dice, pom-poms, markers and crayons to help your child build their strength, visual spatial, sensory, and fine motor skills. You can even have your child help with the some spring gardening including planting some seeds and watering those growing plants! For an awesome outdoor adventure, try the shadow drawing! It's sure to keep those little ones engaged and you may be surprised by what they can do!
Have a great month!
Linda Boyages, OT #1537
Occupational Therapist
RISE Preschool
Summer Adventure Programming for Students
The Community Education Department is offering a Summer Adventure Program for School Aged and Pre-School Students. These programs will run June 26 – August 11.
The Preschool Summer Adventure Program is a 6-week program that runs Monday-Friday, 8:00-11:30 a.m. This program will include both academic readiness and enrichment-based activities. Each week will have a different theme.
- Location: RMHS RISE Preschool, 82 Oakland Road
- Age: Must be 4 years old by August 31 as well as students entering kindergarten (who may not opt for a full day)
The Elementary Summer Adventure Program consists of seven week-long sessions that will take place at Birch Meadow Elementary School, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m. Each session will have its own unique theme around which the activities of the week will be based. Kids will jump start their curiosity as they explore the weekly Summer Adventure camp themes using engaging hands-on projects and theme-related activities led by RPS teachers. Each week offers a new adventure to unpack and investigate.
Throughout each week children will engage in games and activities planned and guided by many of our extended day staff. These will include sports, outdoor games, arts and crafts, and more tying into the core theme of each week. The Summer Adventure will take place from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Please review the attached information and complete your registration if interested.
Latest News from SEPAC
BIg News: NEW SEPAC WEBSITE!
Click here for the NEW, IMPROVED READING SEPAC WEBSITE, an incredible resource for parents/caregivers of all children, especially those with diverse learning profiles. We strongly urge you to visit it soon, and often. Short on time? Here’s a very brief video to give you a sense of what’s there in just over one minute.
UPCOMING EVENTS–OPEN TO ALL!
Family meetup at the Boston Kite and Bike Festival
SEPAC will join RPS/Metco at the Boston Kite and Bike Festival
Saturday, May 20. 1-3pm
Click here to connect with us for this event
Social events
End of Year SEPAC Social at Bunratty Tavern. Tuesday, June 20, 7PM. Click to RSVP.
Coming this Summer: Patio Socials and popsicles on the playground! Information coming.
About Reading SEPAC
SEPAC works for the understanding of, respect for, and support of, all children with special needs in the community. Email sepacreading@gmail.com to get on our confidential mailing list–your best source of SEPAC information. Visit us at https://sepac.reading.k12.ma.us/
North Suburban Child & Family Resource Network
RISE Extended Day Applications for 2023-24
Below are the RISE registration forms for the 2023-24 school year. Please complete this information and submit it to the Extended Day Program as soon as possible to be considered for a spot. These fill up quickly, so don't delay! If you have any questions, please contact Mackenzie Irwin, Assistant Director of Community Education.
Crossing Guards Needed! Please consider applying
In collaboration with the Reading Police Department, we are seeking community members who may be interested in serving as a Crossing Guard. These positions are essential in ensuring the safety of our students and families. Here is a link to the job posting with information on expressing interest. Thanks in advance for helping to spread the word in our community. We are in immediate need of substitute crossing guards, so if you may be willing to support in this role from time to time, please let us know!
Kindergarten Registration for 2023-24
We know the registration process can generate a lot of questions. Here are some of the FAQs we have heard from families.
Reading Public School Medical Policies
We are seeing an increase in the number of students absent with fevers. Please be sure to check with your pediatrician about Covid, strep, or flu testing if needed.
Reminders:
1. Documentation of all immunizations and a physical exam must be provided prior to the first day of school as mandated by Massachusetts State Law. All medical requirements are included in new student paperwork. If your child has a summer birthday, please make sure their scheduled physical happens before the first day of school and send the documentation to school for your child’s record. Medical or religious immunization exemptions are permitted; documentation of such exemptions is required annually.
2. First Aid: Most injuries are minor; however, please make sure to complete all emergency contact information for your child. Include contact numbers for parents and any other person who might be responsible for picking up your child in the event of an emergency. Also include your child’s physician’s name and contact information. Remember to update this information throughout the school year for any corrections or changes.
3. Medication Guidelines:
- Doctor’s orders and parent authorization forms must be completed for ALL medications given in school (including over-the-counter medications).
- Tylenol and ibuprofen can be given in middle and high school with parental consent.
- All medication orders expire at the end of the school year.
- Medications must be provided in their original labeled container.
- A parent or responsible adult must transport medication to and from the Health Office and meet with the nurse regarding instructions. Do not send any medication in your child’s backpack.
- Exception to medication guidelines: Short term antibiotics may be given without a doctor’s order. The antibiotic must be provided in the original labeled container. This serves as proof of a doctor’s order in this case only.
4. Attendance at School: Please do not send your child to school if they have any of the following:
- Fever of 100 degrees or higher. A child with a fever should not return until they have been fever-free without a fever reducer such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen for 24 hours.
- Infectious illness such as strep throat for which they have been treated with antibiotics for less than 12 hours.
- Any symptoms listed on the COVID health screening. Please check your child for symptoms daily. If you have any concerns, please contact your school nurse, and follow up with your child's physician.
5. School Screenings: State mandated school screenings are as follows: Vision screenings are done in grades prek-5,7 &10, hearing screenings are done in grades K-3, 7 & 10. Height and weight screenings are performed annually on grades 1,4, 7 &10. Postural screenings are done for grade 5-9 annually. SBIRT screenings are done in grades 8 &10.
Parents will be notified of upcoming screenings and notified if a referral is indicated after the screenings. Parents may opt out of any screenings in writing to the school nurse.
6. Communication from the Health Office is through SNAP Health Portal, which connects directly with your child’s electronic health record, and provides direct messaging to your school nurse. School nurses may also reach out via phone call, email, and school newsletters. Please make sure your contact information is up to date.
7. Contagious Illnesses: Please notify the Health Office if your child has any contagious illness or conditions such as COVID, flu or strep throat. Always refer to your pediatrician for guidance.
8. Student Absence: If your child is absent, please call the absentee phone line and mention the reason for the absence. A note is required for all absences when your child returns.
9. Allergy Guidelines: Reading Public School Guidelines for Food Allergies are available on the district webpage under District Information. All classrooms are food-free except for individual snacks and lunches provided from home. All food brought into the classroom must follow the Food Allergy Guidelines. You will be notified of food allergy restrictions for your child’s classroom prior to the beginning of the school year. No food sharing is allowed.
10. Allergies and Chronic Conditions: Please contact the school nurse if your child has any health issues or life-threatening allergies so appropriate accommodations can be made.
Please send in a copy of your child’s yearly physical so that health records and immunizations can be updated. Summer is a good time to reinforce good hygiene habits such as handwashing, cough and sneeze etiquette and the importance of no food sharing at school. Another health issue to consider is lice prevention. Please get into the habit of watching for symptoms and routinely checking your child’s head.
Please contact your school nurse with any questions or concerns. We look forward to working with you and getting to know your child.
Sincerely,
Reading Public School Nurses
Reading Coalition...Community Support
The Reading Coalition for Prevention & Support, formerly known as RCASA, was established in 2006 in Reading. The coalition started as a town, police, school and community initiative focused on improving collaboration and reducing substance abuse. The coalition was grant-funded from 2007-2019. Today, the coalition funded under the Reading Police Department, offers programs and services that focus on substance misuse prevention and mental health promotion.
Follow us on Instagram @rcps_rpd
Like us on Facebook @reading coalition
Follow us on Twitter @rcoalition4prev
About These Services
The Town of Reading contracts with William James College to offer a special service for our residents. The William James INTERFACE Referral Service maintains a mental health and wellness referral help line Monday through Friday, 9 am-5 pm, at 888-244-6843 (toll free). This is a free, confidential referral service for individuals across the lifespan living in Reading. Callers are matched with licensed mental health providers from our extensive database. Each referral meets the location, insurance, and specialty needs of the caller. Click here to learn more!
Mark your calendars
May
29: Memorial Day; No school
31: Discovery Kids Enrichment Program (Liquids & Solids);
PTN Meeting (please note change of date), 7:30 PM via ZOOM
June
1: Discovery Kids Enrichment Program (Liquids & Solids)
2: RMHS Class of 2023 Graduation
7: RISE Community End-of-Year Celebration, 4:30-6:30 PM
9: PreK Sing-a-Long at RMHS, 8:30 AM on playground; Special Olympics at RMHS
16: Last day of school for all students! Happy Summer!
Overview of RISE Programs
Reading Public Schools offers a variety of outstanding integrated preschool programming for Reading residents. Our integrated programs serve tuition-based students and students who receive special education services. Our goal is to create an environment of mutual respect, where all students learn from their teachers and from each other.
Our integrated preschool programs are multi-age, and students may enter when they turn three years old. This enables our younger students to learn from their older classmates. Our four-year-old students love being role models and leaders to our three-year-old students.
Our integrated programs are designed to support the learning and growth of both tuition students and students with disabilities. Our approach is play-based. Students learn school, social and academic skills through center activities, free play, circle time, recess, and more.
If you have questions about our programs, you are welcome to contact Dr. King.
Contact Information
Email: joanne.king@reading.k12.ma.us
Website: https://rise.reading.k12.ma.us/
Location: 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, USA
Phone: 781-942-9179