OHS Weekly Wag 🐾

As we come to the end of the school year at Old Hammondtown, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude. Our incredible teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where students can thrive. Their dedication, creativity, and care are what make this school so special.

I’m also deeply thankful to our families and the Mattapoisett PTA for the partnership, encouragement, and generosity you’ve shown throughout the year. Whether volunteering your time, attending events, or supporting classrooms behind the scenes, your involvement has made a meaningful difference.

In my first year at OHS, I’ve felt truly welcomed and supported—not only by students and families, but also by district leaders, the School Committee, and the broader Mattapoisett community. I’m so grateful to be part of a district that values collaboration, care, and high-quality education.

It’s been a joy to watch our students learn and grow this year. I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished together and excited for what’s to come.

Best Regards,

Principal Wells

On Wednesday, the halls of OHS were filled with music as our students performed in both a 1:30 p.m. school concert and a 5:00 p.m. evening performance for families. The event kicked off with our Chorus, who brought the stage to life with an energetic set of Broadway favorites.

Next, 4th grade instrumentalists proudly took the stage by section, each group performing a short piece to showcase the skills they’ve developed since beginning their instruments in October.

The Concert Band followed, opening with the playful and imaginative “Return of the Dust Bunnies,” which featured some truly unique percussion—including a solo on an actual vacuum cleaner! They wrapped up with a crowd-pleasing performance of the hit song Shut Up and Dance.

The evening ended on a high note with our Jazz Band, whose final piece brought the house down with a surprise jazz arrangement of Ozzy Osbourne’s Crazy Train.

It was a joyful celebration of musical growth, creativity, and collaboration. A special thanks to General and Vocal Music teacher Dr. Sarah Leahy and Instrumental Music teacher Mr. Alan Sweet for their hard work, dedication, and the many opportunities they provide for our students to shine!

As part of a fairytale unit in Library, fourth and fifth grade students worked with Mrs. Mirabito to perform short readers’ theater scripts for each other and for students in the SMEC program. These informal performances helped bring students together, creating opportunities for connection while building reading fluency and confidence in a fun, engaging way.

Barbie took on some serious thrills this week in 5th grade science with Mrs. Casi! Students worked in teams to engineer zip lines and custom holders to help Barbie glide safely through the air. They also designed and tested bungee jumps in the courtyard as part of their exploration of force and motion.

To wrap up the week, students created parachutes to ensure Barbie had a soft landing. Custodian Mr. Casi brought each group’s Barbie to the school roof to launch their designs and put their engineering skills to the test.

Rumor has it that Barbie’s next mission might involve designing boats for daring water rescues—because when it comes to science at OHS, the adventures never stop!

Fifth graders took a walking field trip to the Mattapoisett River on Friday to release about 75 brook trout raised through a program with MassWildlife. The trip marked the culmination of months of learning with Mr. Squire and Mrs. Casi about local ecosystems, conservation, and the life cycle of trout—right in their own community.

Check out this creative project from Dr. Leahy’s 6th grade general music class, where students explored the role of sound in video games. Scan the QR code to hear their original work and see how music brings digital worlds to life!

Monday, June 9th:

6th grade Canal Boat Trip

Wednesday, June 11th:

Last Day-Breakfast will be served!

6th Grade Awards Ceremony 10:30, all grades attend, 6th grade families are welcome too!

Dismissal 12:20, No lunches served

Thursday, June 12th:

-Summer vacation begins, enjoy!

August 27- 1st Day of 25-26 School Year!

September 3- OHS Open House 5:30-7:00

See link below...

Phone: 508-758-6241

Main Office / Principal's Secretary: Mrs. Jennifer Janicki

School Nurse: Mrs. Amy Ripley

School Adjustment Counselor: Mrs. Bethanie Grant

In addition to this newsletter, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OHSmattapoisett

You can also download the ORR Connect App to get the latest updates.

See the Mobile App Info Sheet for details on the information within our app. If you have questions, please email weareor@oldrochester.org.

Search ORRconnect in the app store or use the following links from your mobile device.

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Finally, most communications to families will be emailed this year, as this is the most efficient and timely method. Please let us know if you would prefer to receive communication regarding your student via first-class mail.

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me directly.

Think, Learn, Care

Email: stephaniewells@oldrochester.org

Website: https://ohs.oldrochester.org/

Location: 20 Shaw St.

Phone: 508-758-6241

Facebook: www.facebook.com/OHSmattapoisett