Peirce Principal News
March 24, 2024
A Message from Ms. Vargas
Dear Peirce Families,
MCAS begins at Peirce-- and across Massachusetts-- this week. From 3rd through 10th grade, public school students take MCAS each spring, and in 10th grade, a passing score is needed as a high school graduation requirement. Peirce students typically perform very well on this state-wide assessment, and we celebrate these achievements. However, I would like to remind you that MCAS is only one data point for our students. Assessments that teachers regularly perform can often tell us more about individual students than MCAS, especially since MCAS data is not shared with us until months after the test is taken. It is understandable that students may feel some nervous feelings about MCAS, but please help reiterate our message that MCAS is not a high-stakes test for our students in elementary school. At Peirce, staff believe in the value of MCAS to help hold us accountable as a school, to show us trends in instruction, and to reveal areas of strength and focus for our future work. We want children to feel that they can manage their emotions, persevere, and complete the test. More than their individual scores, these are the true victories on MCAS days. It is always a thrill for me to check in with a third grader after taking MCAS for the first time. More often then not, they share great pride in announcing, "I did it!"
Sincerely,
Andrea Vargas
PEDP's Broadway Review: Two thumbs Up!
It is absolutely true that I am not capable of providing an unbiased write-up for PEDP's Broadway Review. As some of you know, I have passion for Broadway shows as well as a passion for our awesome Peirce students. That said, I had the pleasure of seeing PEDP's musical this afternoon. I took along two other avid Broadway goers: my daughter, Ella and my mother. My mother claimed this show was far better than my sixth grade production of Cats. It's tough to argue with her. I am glad that the show will be presented for all students at Peirce this coming Wednesday morning. Congrats to the PEDP staff, the stars, and the tech crew on this smash hit!
Ella and I have seen many Broadway and touring shows. We give this one two thumbs up!
What a fantastic cast!
The finale featured one of my favorite songs of all time!
Morning Reminder
Please be mindful of the fact that there is no outdoor supervision by Peirce staff in the morning before arrival. Some students have been coming to play on their own outside of Peirce during this time. On occasion, students have had minor injuries or disputes. Please plan on supervising children if they are coming to play for any length of time before school begins. As a reminder, all students should enter when the first bell rings at 8:10. Thank you for your understanding and support!
The Panther Post
Peirce is proud to have its very own student newspaper: The Panther Post! This paper is run by fifth graders who will soon be passing the baton to fourth graders for next year. Please see their January/ February online edition.
March Madness!
Staff Spotlight: Megan Leone
Job Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Job Description:
The kindergarteners keep me very busy! Every day we learn through play and hands on activities in all subjects. I spend time prepping materials and modeling expectations. I love connecting with my students and helping them learn how form friendships with each other and always be kind. The kindergartener’s love for learning and enthusiasm to be in school is contagious, and every day I have to match their energy!
First Year at Peirce:
2021
Favorite Animal:
My black labrador retriever, Moose
Favorite Book:
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
Favorite Travel Destination:
Florida and Cape Cod
Hobbies:
Going for runs, pilates classes, walking my dog Moose, reading, shopping, and trying new restaurants with friends.
Who inspires you?
My Mom inspires me. She has overcome many obstacles in her life but still always has a smile on her face and is always looking at ways she can help other people.
What is the best part of your job?
Spending time my kindergarteners, making them laugh, and watching them grow a love for learning.
Kindergarten Registration
Do you have a child coming to kindergarten next year?
Our online registration system remains open for kindergarten registration. You can find this and other important information on the district kindergarten website. Please register your kindergarten-age child as soon as possible, so that we can plan staffing and programming for the year ahead.
Mark your Calendar!
March 27- PEDP Musical, in-school performance
March 29- School Holiday
April 9- PTO Board Meeting
April 15-19- April Vacation
May 17- Multicultural Night
June 20- 5th Grade Graduation
MCAS DATES:
ELA
Grade 3- March 25 & 26
Grade 4- March 28 & April 2
Grade 5- April 4 & 5
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENGINEERING
Grade 5 only- May 2 & 3
MATH
Grade 4- May 6 & 7
Grade 5- May 13 & 14
Grade 3- May 16 & 17
Peirce Elementary School
170 Temple Street
Newton, MA 02465
(617) 559-9630