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Walpole Middle School's Grade 8 Volunteer Leaders were honored for their dedication, leadership, and role in guiding Middle School student tours. In their final summer days, these students generously volunteered their time to help incoming classes adjust to the new school environment. They warmly welcomed the new students and provided informative tours of the school. We deeply appreciate their commitment, effort, and enthusiasm.

James P., Walpole High School representative to the School Committee was present. James provided the following report:

• The school year has officially begun and we are into the first full week of school. Walpole High School welcomes the class of 2028 containing 230 students.
• Students in 9th grade attended an assembly yesterday to introduce them to Critical Incident Response, more commonly referred to as the A.L.I.C.E. program (alert -lockdown -inform- counter-evacuate). The Walpole Police Department has worked with Walpole Public Schools for several years to prepare students and staff for critical incidents. Training and drills will take place throughout the school year for all students.
• Walpole Public Schools offers optional Chromebook insurance for students grades 6-12. The $30 fee will cover any accidental damage to Chromebooks through September of 2025.
• All High school students will complete a short confidential survey on Wednesday, October 2 during interventions. The survey is from Massachusetts General Hospital regarding mental health and substance abuse. Opt out letters have been made available to families.
• During Wednesday interventions, colleges will visit WHS to provide knowledge and handouts. Some of the colleges that have already visited include UMass Amherst, Merrimack, Tufts, and the University of Alabama.
• Walpole Public Schools Music Department is offering private lessons for students in grade 4-12. Lessons are taught by accomplished performers for many instruments such as guitar, piano, trombone, and many more. Registration Closes Monday, September 16th. https://sites.google.com/walpole.k12.ma.us/wpsmusic/private-lesson-program/overview
• WHS Clubs are back up and running!
• Fall sports have been back in action for a few weeks and students are looking forward to an exciting fall season. The Field Hockey team is off to a great start and is currently undefeated at 4-0. The Football Team plays Foxboro in Foxboro tomorrow night at 7 p.m. The Volleyball Team as well as the Boys and Girls Soccer Teams are playing today against Needham. Cross Country’s next meet is Wednesday, September 18th at home against Braintree.
• Class of 2025 Yearbook planning is underway. Senior Portraits must be submitted by October 4th. There is a Google Classroom students, parents and guardians can join (code csz7gix) which will provide all announcements about important dates throughout the year. There is also an Instagram page @walpole-yearbook.
• PAC will hold their first meeting of the year on Wednesday, October 23rd. Principal Imbusch will provide an overview of the WHS Addition/Renovation Project.

1. Opening of School Reports - Each building Principal gave a brief presentation to the School Committee relative to the successful opening of schools and planned upcoming school events. Each Principal indicated their gratitude to all staff, teachers, nurses, custodians, Department of Public Works, the Transportation Coordinator and secretaries.

2. Student Activity Fund Update - Mr. Friscia gave the School Committee details regarding the Student Activity Fund and Club balances.

3. First Reading of Policies: The School Committee had a first reading of Policy AC (Nondiscrimination and Harassment) and Policy JIE (Pregnant Students).

4. Fales, Leach, Rogers & Kunde Scholarship - The Fales, Leach, Rogers & Kunde Scholarship application will be available on October 1, 2024 through Thursday, October 31, 2024. To be eligible, candidates must be a graduate from Walpole High School and currently attending a college or university. This application will be found on the District website beginning on October 1st or will be available at the Superintendent’s Office.

• Dr. Gough welcomed our students back into classrooms and thanked the incredible staff for their hard work preparing for a successful opening. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Gough enjoyed their early visits to schools to connect with our students, families, and staff.
• Please make sure to check your individual school site for upcoming events. As a reminder, September 20th is an early release day.
• In terms of safety and security, Central Administration continues to meet and communicate with Chief Kelleher and the WPD. Officer Hart is currently in the process of conducting ALICE training for our schools. Both Officer Hart and Chief Kelleher will attend an upcoming School Committee meeting. Dr. Gough also shared important safety procedures and protocols that are currently in place.
  
• Walk with the Supers is scheduled Sept. 20th from 8:30-9:45 a.m. at the WHS Track. This is designed to promote community engagement and wellness. Feel free to come for a portion or stay the entire time to walk and talk with Dr. Gough and Dr. Hahn This is open to all community members.
• Dr. Gough provided information regarding the WHS Superintendent's Student Cabinet, which is a unique opportunity for Walpole High School students to share feedback, experiences, and perspectives on a variety of issues affecting students, schools, and the Walpole community, with Superintendent Gough. Application information was emailed to all WHS students.

Middle School Building Project: The community is encouraged to visit the webpage and reach out to the Middle School Project team with any questions or comments via email at middleschoolproject@walpole.k12.ma.us.