Dear Parent/Guardian:

Massachusetts General Law requires that student’s height and weight be measured in grades, 1, 4, 7 and 10.  The results of the height and weight will be used to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI).  BMI is a screening tool that provides a guideline for determining whether a child is underweight, over weight, at risk of overweight or at a healthy weight.  The purpose of the screening is to identify possible health risks that might prevent students from obtaining the maximum benefit from their educational opportunities. Continue reading →

Who:      Everyone should bring in food to help.
What:     Non-perishable food items — Examples:  Canned Soup, Tuna, Canned Vegetables, Pasta, Canned Fruit, Cereal
Where:   Bring food items into homebase or donation box in the main office )Donation is given to the Hellenic Gospel Church in Newton)
When:     First donation will be made Monday, November 21
Why:       Everyone deserves to have food for the holidays.

“The federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act requires states and school districts to give parents/guardians report cards on the district and schools.  Included in the report cards are student achievement data, information about the professional qualifications of teachers, testing and accountability.  The report card helps to ensure that parents/guardians have  important information about the schools their children attend.  Involving families as full partners in the education of their children is a cornerstone of NCLB.  We encourage you to become involved.  Please connect through this link for the district and individual school report cards (http://www3.newton.k12.ma.us/curriculum/newton-annual-nclb-reports).  A copy of the report card is also available in your school office.”

Creative Arts and Science Committee Update (CASC) 2011-2012

Since 1960, each Newton Public School PTO has had a Creative Arts & Sciences Committee that sponsors visiting programs to enhance students’ education. Presenters typically include award-winning authors, accomplished musicians, artists, scientists, Museum of Science, etc. Programs can be an adjunct to art, English, library, mathematics, music, physical education, science, or social studies curricula. Bigelow’s Creative Arts & Sciences Committee brings about eight programs to the school each year.  Many of them are teacher favorites that are requested every year, others are new and different.

These programs, funded solely by the PTO, are made possible through PTO fundraising. The following have been scheduled for the 2011-2012 year. Continue reading →