Hello JGW Families,

For those of you who celebrate Easter, I hope that you had a joyous holiday today. I have a few updates for a very busy week ahead:

MCAS

MCAS season officially starts this week with English Language Arts. Results from this testing are essential as we work to make our teaching and learning as strong as they can be. They help us identify and continue with our strengths as well as brainstorm solutions for areas in which to improve. The importance of these results cannot be overstated.

The testing schedule for all grades is below:

• Monday 4/6 and Tuesday 4/7: Grade 7 & 8 ELA

• Thursday 4/9 and Friday 4/10: Grades 5 & 6 ELA

Assemblies were held last Thursday for students in all grades. Students and teachers have done the work all year long and students were encouraged to do their best. They are ready, and now they just have to SHOW WHAT THEY KNOW! Expectations for testing were reviewed. Students were reminded that the use of electronic devices, other than chromebooks, are prohibited during testing. Students must charge their chromebooks and have a full battery for testing. Finally, please have students arrive at school on time. If your child requires breakfast, please drop them off at 8:05AM. Testing will begin directly after homeroom ends at 8:40AM.

WALKING/ BIKING/ SCOOTERING (is that a word??) TO SCHOOL SAFELY

With springtime in full swing, we're seeing more and more students riding their bikes and scooters to school, which is great! It's an excellent way to get exercise and be more independent. We want to share a few important reminders about bicycle safety to ensure that all our students have a safe and enjoyable journey. 

Here are the key things your child should know and do to stay safe on the road:

• Wear a Helmet: A properly fitted helmet is the most critical safety gear. It can significantly reduce the risk of a serious head injury by up to 85%. Helmets should sit level on the head and be able to strap snugly under the chin. Please ensure your child wears their helmet on every ride, no matter how short.

• Obey Traffic Laws: Bicyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as drivers. This means students must stop at all stop signs and red lights, ride on the right side of the road with traffic, and use hand signals for turns and stops.

• Be Visible: With the days getting shorter, visibility is crucial. Encourage your child to wear bright clothing, preferably with reflective gear. Use lights and reflectors (white on front/red on back) on the bike, especially during early morning or late afternoon rides.

• Check the Bike/ Scooter: A quick check of bike maintenance before each ride can prevent accidents. Ensure the brakes are working, the tires are properly inflated, and the chain is in good condition.

• Ride Safely: Remind your child to stay alert and avoid distractions like using headphones or a phone while riding. They should ride single file with friends and be predictable in their movements.

HHS FALL ATHLETICS

HHS Athletics Coaches have been contacting our administration to arrange lunchtime informational sessions for current 8th graders/ rising 9th graders. 

• HHS Cheer team - April 27 (Will discuss the tryout process scheduled for this Spring.)

• Football - TBD

• Rowing - TBD

Another word on HHS Athletics: The HHS Boys Tennis team has recently received a waiver that allows 8th graders at district middle schools to participate this season.  The team meets Monday - Friday for practices and matches at 3:15.  The practices are currently at HHS but will shift to the Winnekenni tennis courts once the weather improves.  This will also be the site of most of our home matches.  Athletes are responsible for their own transportation to and from HHS/Winnekenni.  If you are interested in joining or have any questions, please reach out to the head boys tennis coach, Zach Eldridge at zeldridge@haverhill-ps.org .  

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

• April 8: Early Release Day - Dismissal at 11:05AM

• April 8: JGW PTO meeting at 6:00PM in the JGW Library

• April 20: No School - Patriots Day (School is closed to all staff and visitors)

• April 21- 24: NO School - Spring Recess

Thank you, and let’s have a great week.

Kevin Higginbottom, Principal