Dear Needham Families:

Allow me to share the following updates:

•  Needham High School Expansion Project   Later this fall we will break ground on the new Sunita L. Williams Elementary School, a construction project that will replace Hillside.  Before then, on October 2nd, the School Committee will ask Town Meeting to support a $14.2 million expansion and renovation project at Needham High School to provide new and renovated classroom and gym space for the growing enrollment at there.  If approved, construction would begin next February and be completed in time for the beginning of the 2018-19 school year.  The growing student population in the District has required projects like the Sunita L. Williams School and high school expansion to be considered.  To learn more about the project, you may read my latest blog post:  Superintendent's Blog: Needham High School Expansion Project

•  Equity in the Needham Public Schools  We have hired a consultant to assist us to better understand the racial equity issues and challenges we may have as a district around supporting all student learners in the Needham Public Schools. Last year, several parents raised a concern about how students were assigned to middle school classes. More information about the parent concern and the District's response can be found here:  Placement Practices in the Needham Schools and here: Supporting All Students in the Needham Schools: Report to the School Committee

Part of the consultant's work is to interview groups of staff, students, and parents to learn what these groups think about the work we are doing in the Needham Schools to assist all learners and to help us identify areas for growth and improvement.  Parents who are interested in participating in a focus group should contact Diane Simmons at diane_simmons@needham.k12.ma.us for more information.  We anticipate sharing the consultant's report to the School Committee in December or January.

 •  Job Opportunities in the NPS  We have job opportunities for interested folks.  Cafeteria Substitute and Teacher Assistant positions are available now and being advertised on the District's website: Needham Public Schools Job Postings  Please pass on!

Finally, to those observing the High Holy Days, please accept my best wishes to you and your families!