Superintendent's Monthly Newsletter
A monthly update on NPS initiatives & important happenings.
Student Behaviors in NPS
Norwood is experiencing increased mental health and student behavioral issues like other towns and school districts across the nation. One needs to know that while we have experienced an increase, school staff continue to address these events. All school districts must apply alternatives to suspension to address behavior and ultimately change poor behavior. The Norwood Public Schools is committed to this work and implementing research-based interventions and alternatives to suspension as is required in the new law regulating discipline in the Commonwealth. However, this is only part of a long-term solution, as we must address our students' ongoing mental health and social-emotional needs. NPS will also continue to offer ongoing parent workshops and counseling for students. McLean Hospital will provide the next virtual workshop on April 28, 2023. Please look for a Parent Square post closer to this date with detailed information. I will also remind the community that Norwood participates in the INTERFACE referral service detailed below.
William James INTERFACE Mental Health Referral Service
The William James INTERFACE Referral Service, offered through the Freedman Center, is a mental health and wellness referral Helpline available Monday through Friday, 9 am-5 pm, at 888-244-6843 (toll-free). https://interface.williamjames.edu/ This is a free, confidential referral service for residents of participating communities. Callers from these participating communities are matched with licensed mental health providers from our extensive database, on average, within 2 weeks of their call to INTERFACE. Each referral best meets the location, insurance, and specialty needs of the caller.
Play Competition
Norwood Drama has won at the preliminary and the semi-final rounds of the 91st METG one-act play festival with their original play Ash to a Flame. Thursday, March 30, they will be competing in the State Finals. Out of 88 plus schools, our students were chosen to compete and perform with 13 other schools. This production has also been invited to represent Massachusetts in the New England Competition later in April. I attended the Semifinals, and the production quality blew me away. Everything from the production's writing, directing, acting, and technical aspects was done professionally. Best of luck in the competition (Break a Leg), and I would encourage everyone to see this incredible work.
Budget Update
MassHealth Renewal Process
Keep MassHealth updated with your latest contact information and income to ensure you get the best benefit you qualify for. Learn how to update your contact information by visiting mass.gov/masshealthrenew
Job Openings
We still seek qualified candidates for Paraprofessionals, Substitutes, and Extended Day staff. Please check out our jobs page here.
Central Office
Website: norwood.k12.ma.us
Location: 275 Prospect Street, Norwood, MA, USA
Phone: 7817626804