The Peak - October 2023

Monthly News from the Wachusett Regional School District

In October, we celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month, during which we work to raise public awareness about Down syndrome. Down Syndrome is an intellectual disability, however having Down Syndrome is only one part of the student and it does not define or limit their abilities. It is important for us all to recognize that students with Down syndrome have dreams, goals, talents, and ambitions. They want to have successful careers and contribute to society just like anyone else.

The WRSD leadership team, including all school principals, recently visited Naquag Elementary School and were greeted by students who introduced themselves and discussed what they love about their school. This was certainly a joyful experience for all involved!

Down Syndrome Awareness Month assists us in remembering to spread the message of acceptance, inclusion, and support, not only during October but every day of the year.

This year, Down Syndrome International established the global campaign theme of “With Us Not For Us,” which supports the National Down Syndrome Society’s vision of “a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities.”

"Down syndrome does not define us as people. It is a condition that makes it harder for us to

learn, but with patience and persistence, we are able to contribute to our society."

-David Egan, Special Olympics athlete and International Global Messenger

Wachusett Regional High School held its annual Homecoming Pep Rally on Friday, October 20th. WRHS students and staff gathered in the gym to celebrate the culmination of Spirit Week with games, music, and a fair bit of noise. Go Mountaineers!

The Dawson Elementary School PTA recently hosted Glow Night, a glow-in-the-dark dance party. Students had a blast at the event which included dancing, games, face painting, and student artwork displays! Thank you, Dawson PTA!

We are so excited to welcome both returning students and new students to our English Learner Education program. Our dedicated ESL teachers are here to support your child’s language learning goals. We are fortunate to have 8 full-time ESL teachers and 1 ESL tutor in the district.

During the school year our department will be offering many opportunities to increase language development for both EL students and their families outside of the regular school day. Several of our schools will be offering ESL after-school programs. For parents of ELs who want to continue to develop their English language skills, there will be a free ESL for Adults course offered. Our Department of English Learners values parental involvement so stay tuned for more information on our upcoming ELPAC meetings (English Learner Parent Advisory Council). Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to myself or any of our ESL staff for more information.

Jodi Brunelle, M.Ed.

English Learner Education Specialist

Wachusett Regional School District

Davis Hill held its Annual 'Dragon Dash' 5K on October 1st! Once again, the event was an enormous success with approximately 400 participants ranging from preschool age to grandparents! The event is PTA sponsored and supports our fundraising efforts to benefit our students and staff members. It is truly a DH Community event, and we appreciate the help that we receive from Holden Police Department and all of our volunteers, sponsors and our Davis Hill neighbors.

Thank you! Looking forward to next year!

Glenwood Elementary School and Cornerstone Bank have developed a partnership to help students get a head start on financial literacy. Glenwood students were recently treated to a presentation by Nicole DeGregorio with help from Moola the Cash Cow.

Thank you, Nicole and Moola!

Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students in the TLC program at Dawson are using new technology and the Eureka Squared math program to pair visuals with learning. While kindergarteners are learning the idea of "one more" by building a staircase, first graders are learning to solve word problems, and second graders are demonstrating an understanding of place value. The additional technology allows for multiple grade levels at once to benefit from the online platform.

Students and staff at Mayo Elementary School held a Choose to be Nice event celebrating the word of the month, RESPECT. They were also celebrating a successful fundraiser which brought in almost $600 for new library books. As a reward for their work on the fundraiser, students got to choose school Principal Carolan Kasper's costume for the day. Nice job, Mayo students!