Superintendent's Newsletter
December 2024
Dear School Community,
As we say goodbye to 2024 - I want to recognize and celebrate the academic successes and extra-curricular achievements that have occurred.
During the past 12 months our students have thrived in our classrooms, played in our music rooms, created in our art centers, performed on our stages, explored their local communities, pursued their interests in our clubs, and competed athletically on our fields and courts.
We have much to be proud of in our Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester schools.
Although uncertainties come with the future - I know that the focus of our school system will be inspiring all students to think, to learn, and to care.
I'm looking forward to 2025 and all that it will bring our school community.
Happy New Year,
Michael S. Nelson
Superintendent of Schools
Bullying and Harassment Prevention and Intervention Plan
The Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 is working to update their Bullying and Harassment Prevention and Intervention Plan. Each school district, charter school, non-public school, Department-approved private special education school, and collaborative school must create a Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan (Plan) that prohibits bullying, cyberbullying, and retaliation. The Plan is to include information on reporting, notice to parents and guardians, notice to law enforcement as necessary, and counseling strategies and procedures for creating safety plans for victims. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plans must be updated every other year. (See M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O, added by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010.) When developing the Plan, school districts, charter schools, Department-approved private special education schools, and collaborative schools must give notice and provide for a public comment period.
The Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 is seeking the public's feedback on the draft, proposed Bullying and Harassment Prevention and Intervention Plan. Please provide any feedback on this Google Form here by January 6, 2025.
New IEP
As we continue to roll out the new IEP this year, please use the link provided in the meeting invitation you receive to view the new document. If you have any questions, please contact Jaime Curley at jaimecurley@oldrochester.org or 508-758-2772, ext 1942.
Gratitude for our Outstanding Musicians
This holiday season, our talented students had outstanding performances in all four districts giving us the joy of music through chorus and band ensembles. Each concert was attributed to the hard work and dedication of our students and music teachers. Families, friends, and community members filled the auditoriums and gyms, creating an atmosphere of celebration and community connection. The hours of rehearsal and preparation paid off, showcasing the creativity and teamwork of our young musicians. These concerts not only highlighted the power of music education but also brought us together to share in the sense of community it creates. Thank you to all the music teachers, staff, and volunteers who made these magical evenings possible. Your efforts continue to inspire pride in our schools.
Sincerely,
Shari Fedorowicz
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning
ORRHS teachers Liz Kennedy, Kathleen Brunelle, Mattapoisett teachers Lisa Lourenco and Greta Anderson and Sippican Librarian Jessica Barrett and Enrichment Teacher Chelsey Lawrence have been awarded Cape Cod 5 Education Mini-Grants! We thank our educators for taking the time to apply to outside grants for the benefit of our students. Read more.
The Tri-Town Education Foundation Board of Directors is excited to welcome its newest members:
- Stephanie A. S. Silveira from Marion
- Katelyn White from Rochester
- Mimi Wicker from Marion
- Andrea Osborne from Mattapoisett
We look forward to working together with you to advance the mission of the Tri-Town Education Foundation.
The Board would also like to express sincere gratitude to the following past members for their years of dedication, service, and support:
- Kathy Eklund
- Paula Meere
Thank you for your invaluable contributions to the Foundation!
The mission of the Tri-Town Education Foundation is to enhance public education in the communities of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester. The Foundation’s Lighthouse Fund is a growing endowment fund under the SouthCoast Community Foundation, with funding generated by private philanthropic donations. Read more.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is providing a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document relating to Competency Determination awards to offer guidance to districts and families at this time. Click here to review the guidance from DESE.
Although all students will receive free school meals, if you believe your family meets the federal income guidelines, we encourage you to complete the free and reduced application online here to be considered for free or reduced fees for school and district activities. Only one application is necessary per family. A new application is required each school year.
“Holiday Time in Rochester” Art Contest is an opportunity for RMS 5th graders to showcase their artwork for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Congratulations to first place winner Georgia Duggan! Read more.
Project 351 has grown this year. Two workshops are completed, along with a training in Boston. Two more workshops are planned after the new year. Read more.
Long-standing community partnerships enable our students to experience great field trips and assemblies. Recently, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra visited Center School and Sippican.
The 31st annual Tri-Town Thanksgiving Banquet was a big success at ORR JHS! Read more.
ORRHS Drama Club performed "Noises Off!" in late November. It was a great show! Congratulations to Mr. Fanti and the entire cast and crew! Read more.
Did you know that our districts are served by five regular school committees? Recently, our school committees reviewed and approved donations and grants, approved travel and upcoming trips and advertising for the athletic department. Click here for the complete schedule, meeting resources and minutes. Upcoming meetings:
January 16th - Rochester School Committee
Jnauary 23rd - Joint School Committee
January 30th - Marion School Committee
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