Salem Public Schools
SPS community,
Beyond just the month of Halloween, October is also National Principals Month. We are so fortunate to have eleven talented school leaders – Glenn Burns, Jamaal Camah, Susan Carmona, Bethann Jellison, Lisa O'Neill, Elizabeth Rogers, Leanne Smith, Susan Smith, Gavin Softic, Jill Tully and Lauren Weaver – in our schools that have multiple years of experience in education and in the Salem Public Schools.
All 11 returned to their school communities this year and consistently lead with integrity as well as a student centered approach. They are passionate, empathetic and are focused on the success of every student under their care. Each day they model our core values of belonging, equity and opportunity, fiercely committed to providing each student with a first class experience. The role of school principal is one of the most challenging in the system requiring around the clock engagement, strategic planning and operational preparation. Please join me in thanking our outstanding school leaders for their investment in our community.
As a reminder, next Thursday is an early release day across the Salem Public Schools so that we can ensure that every child gets home safely on Halloween Day. Given the many early road closures and the number of tourists who descend on the city, we want to be sure that we have a smooth school day. Thank you for your continued flexibility as we navigate the busy season in Salem!
Enjoy the weekend,
Steve
Ms. Ramsden supports students in social skills groups, one-on-one, as needed, and empowers them to advocate for themselves once they've acquired the necessary skills. Ms. Ramsden provides guidance on social-emotional practices, strategies, and accommodations that help all teachers set high expectations and create a safe, effective classroom environment for students with disabilities.
Ms. Ramsden is a leader among her colleagues, consistently coordinating and strategizing to ensure that students are supported. She has spearheaded the start of an inclusive afterschool social club, Witch Mix, a grief group for students, implemented various mental health screenings, and more. She is a Safety Care trainer, providing staff across the district with proper training and ensuring that all staff are fully supported at Salem High. SHS is truly fortunate to have such a dedicated professional working on behalf of our students.
From Clockers to Blue Bombardiers to Red Rocketeers, meet the best high school mascots in Massachusetts.
Over the next couple of months, SBLive/SI will be featuring the best high school mascots in every state, giving readers a chance to vote for No. 1 in all 50. The winners and highest vote-getters will make up the field for our NCAA Tournament-style March Mascot Madness bracket in 2025. The Coalinga Horned Toads (California) are the defending national champions.
Two other U.S. high schools use the Witches as their mascot, but no one can pull it off with such historical authenticity like Salem, Massachusetts.
Salem Public Schools is pleased to announce the availability of COVID Test Kits at all our schools' main and health offices. If you require a test kit, kindly contact your school nurse or main office to pick one up. It is important to note that we do not have an in-school testing program. In the event of illness, we remind you to follow sick-day guidelines on the district website. Please contact your school nurse with any questions.
National School Lunch Week was a remarkable celebration across the district last week from Oct. 15-18. Our cafeterias buzzed with excitement and activity as students and staff joined in the festivities. The week was packed with special events, drawing attention to the vital role of nutritious school lunches in our students' lives.
On Wednesday Oct. 16, our cafeterias saw some very special Salem celebrity lunch servers: The Salem Police, Salem Firefighters, Salem Mayor Dominic Pangallo, Superintendent Dr. Stephen Zrike, and school committee members, took turns in the kitchens handing out pirate booty and gold necklaces to students. Embracing the National School Lunch Week “School Lunch Pirate Theme”, they donned pirate hats and fully immersed themselves in their roles, interacting with students in character and making the lunchtime experience an unforgettable adventure for all. Their presence brought joy and enthusiasm, making lunchtime a memorable experience for all. The highlight for many students was the appearance of Derby, the SPD Community Resource Dog, who stole hearts and added an extra dose of fun to the day.
Discriminatory harassment and bullying are prohibited in Massachusetts schools. We must all work together to stand up against all forms of hate, bias, and prejudice. Below are links to guides for families:
Combatting Hate in Our Schools: English | Spanish
Q&A: Addressing Hate and Bias in Our Schools: English | Spanish
ParentSquare is the communication platform for Salem Public Schools. Families receive communication from the district, school, and their student's classroom all in one space. Families can communicate 1-to-1 with teachers, register for parent-teacher conferences, and more.
If you are not receiving messages from ParentSquare or if you are having trouble, contact your school's front office. You can visit www.parentsquare.com for more information.