Superintendent's Newsletter

Dear School Community,

The first six weeks of school is an extremely important aspect of the school year. During this time period our faculty and staff members are working very strategically to build and foster learning environments that promote a strong sense of community and belonging for all students. Specifically, our classrooms have been busy creating a learning climate that is positive and promotes safety for all members. Additionally, our students have been learning their schedules and establishing educational routines that will structure their days in school this year. It is important that students learn about the expectations for desired behavior and establish a common understanding of the rules with their instructors. This past month our teachers and staff members have also created learning opportunities for our students to take ownership of their learning environments. Ultimately, the efforts during the first six weeks of school facilitated by our teachers and staff members lead to a foundation of high expectations for all students and a common understanding of what will be achieved over the course of the year. As the school year moves forward we hope the sense of enthusiasm for learning and joy for being in school continues to build momentum as our students pursue their academic hopes and dreams.

With all respect,

Michael S. Nelson

Superintendent of Schools

At the Joint School Committee meeting held on September 28, 2023, our members unanimously approved the adoption of our Vision2028. This five year strategic plan was developed with the input of the school community through strategic planning sessions, public forums, and responses provided through a school community survey opportunity. Vision2028 reaffirms our school-system's mission to inspire all students to think, to learn, and to care. Read Vision2028 here.

We are pleased to announce that in the coming weeks we will launch ORRconnect! This mobile app will allow families to receive targeted, real-time updates right at their fingertips regarding school happenings. ORRconnect is currently under development and more information will be shared with our school community soon.

The 2023-2024 Professional Development Plan for our faculty and staff members was recently approved at the Joint School Committee Meeting on September 28, 2023. Each year our parents and guardians provide valuable input through survey responses that assist in identifying professional development areas of opportunity. To learn more about the professional development plan please visit here.

As our schools continue to try to use less and less paper, we are asking that all parents and caregivers update all forms for their student(s) in Powerschool. Below is a video made by Junior High School Principal Silas Coellner that provides assistance on how to complete the process. If you require support regarding your login and/or password please contact IT Specialist John Ashley (johnashley@oldrochester.org).

The Old Rochester Regional School District provides students with Acer Chromebooks and Samsung Chromebooks. Old Rochester Regional School District has chosen School Device Coverage (SDC) to insure the devices that will be given to your student as part of this year's 1:1 device program. Insurance is a one-time charge of $25 for the entire school year. This insurance program will protect you in the event that your device is lost, stolen, or damaged accidentally. You may file a claim against any number of incidents that take place with no deductibles, no added fees, and no claims limits. Apply online.

Free and reduced applications are available online here. Only one application is necessary per family. The forms can be obtained and returned (completed) to any school office. You will be notified via email or U.S. postal mail of your child's status. This information may be shared, only with your consent, and used for other school benefits.

The start of the school year also kicked off school committee meetings in each district, along with our first Joint School Committee for the 2023-2024 school year. School Committee members toured their buildings, reviewed opening day happenings, accepted grants and donations, and more. Below are the nex few meetings available in person and via Zoom. Click here for the complete schedule, meeting resources and minutes.

Thursday, October 5th - Rochester School Committee

Thursday, October 12th - ORR School Committee

Thursday, October 19th - Marion School Committee

Thursday, October 26th - Mattapoisett School Committee