Principal Lysaght’s Weekly Message

Dear Brown MS Community,

I share these pictures (above) to demonstrate how our Brown MS community came together and created opportunities for students to share the best of themselves. Back in October we had our annual Kindness Week (an event sponsored by the PTO and celebrated by students and teachers). During advisory that week, students were asked to share ideas of what kindness looks like at Brown MS. Based on their statements, PTO leaders Yael Gill and Miriam Blankenship worked to compile the most common themes. These four banners represent those themes, and they are now displayed as a permanent part our cafeteria. Everyday students see them hanging over the tables as they eat lunch. It is a visual reminder to them of our Bear Belief to Be Safe and Kind – something we aspire to as a community. We are so proud of our students for generating these important words of advice and know they will inspire our next batch of middle schoolers in the fall.

This morning we had an excellent turnout of parents for our final PTO-Principal Coffee. I have attached the slides from our discussion here. Much of our discussion was about the NPS math pathways plan, the roll out, the plans for next year and the hope for continued/increased communication. I have included this link to an FAQ from the district and this video created by the district (previously sent out to families). One benefit of the pathways is that we will have two mathematics specialists on staff dedicated to supporting the needs of all learners. Additionally we will teach a more rigorous mathematics curriculum at all three grade levels. Inquiries and feedback are being collected at the district level by Assistant Superintendent Gina Flanagan and Mathematics Director Jennifer Shore.

Speaking of math, this coming Tuesday and Wednesday we have math MCAS for the entire school. Please make sure your child charges their Chromebooks on Monday and Tuesday nights. We suggest they bring in their charger as well just in case. And, of course, please have them get a good night sleep and a healthy breakfast. We ask that you don’t send your child to school with copious amounts of candy/sweets – just an individual snack will suffice. Also, a water bottle will be important as the temperature next week looks to be hot!

For 8th grade parents: There is information regarding end of the year events that are important for you to be aware of below in this newsletter (scroll down until you find it). This includes payments for these events. If you have not yet paid the fee (or requested scholarship) the PTO has extended the deadline to this Monday. Please make a point to take care of this so that all students can enjoy the many events ahead.