Dear Needham Public Schools Families:
As we prepare for the holiday break, allow me to share the following updates:
• School Emergencies/Weather-related Information Many families complained that they had not received a phone call alerting them to the 12/18 "shelter in place" notification. I apologize for any oversight or miscommunication at my end! I will take this opportunity to ask parents to update contact information in PowerSchool:
Instructions to update parent/emergency contacts
• Apple Distinguished Award Congratulations to High Rock and Pollard for being recognized by Apple for a
commitment to continuous innovation using technology in the classroom! You can read more about the award here:
Apple Distinguished Award
• Grades 6-12 Science and the Portrait of a Needham Graduate At a recent School Committee meeting school staff, including Mark Healey (6-8 Science Dept. Chair) and Jen Regrut (NHS Science Dept. Chair) accompanied by several students shared how
their work in science is aligned to the competencies in the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. I appreciate their thoughtful work and the conversation with the School Committee! Additional presentations in the spring, including in English and English Language Arts and Math, will be shared.
• 2024-25 School Calendar The School Committee voted to approve a calendar for the 2024-25 school year. You may view it here:
2024-25 NPS Calendar (Please note that the 2nd page of the document lists the holidays, cultural celebrations, and other religious events marked by families in the community.)
• FY25 Proposed Budget Last week I presented my proposed FY25 (2024-25 School Year) Budget to the School Committee for their consideration. You may view my presentation here:
FY25 Budget Presentation and view all budget documents here:
NPS Budget Documents The School Committee will hold a Public Hearing on the budget on Tuesday evening, January 16, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Broadmeadow, and families, staff, and students are welcome to share comments or feedback on the proposal.
For those of you celebrating the peace and joy of the holiday, Merry Christmas!
Respectfully,