[PDF] MCAS SCORES ON THE RISE - Free Download PDF (2024)

VOL. 6, NO. 2

WINTER 2016

MCAS SCORES ON THE RISE Schools’ performance marks progress for third year in a row

PHOTO: SEAN BROWNE

SPS gradUATE Justin Haynes : success by design Page 11

PHOTO: GIOVANNIE LOPEZ

INSIDE THIS EDITION

OUTDOOR LEARNING PAGE 4

EARNING A TITLE PAGES 8-9

MUSIC BOOSTERS PAGE 16

Under the leadership of Superintendent Daniel Warwick, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) students have shown steady MCAS improvements in English Language Arts (ELA), math and science for three years in a row. “I am very proud of the outstanding hard work of our students and staff,” said Warwick. “These consistent gains are the result of their commitment and dedication.” Warwick made the remarks following the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) public release of statewide MCAS results for all 10thgraders and for students in grades 3 through 8 who took MCAS. In Springfield, 27 schools took the MCAS test and 31 took PARCC (with four schools taking parts of both). From 2012 to 2015, SPS students’ MCAS Composite Performance Index (CPI), which measures academic progress toward proficiency, has increased by 2.8 points in ELA and a whopping 5.7 points in math, while the state increases were 2.6 and 3.2 points respectively. In science, the CPI increase was 2.4 points for the district, compared to 0.8 for the state. Also since 2012, the percentage of SPS students who are proficient in math spiked 10 percentage points. In ELA the increase in the number of students who are proficient increased by six percentage points. Adding to the overall success of the school district, are the improvement levels achieved by 10th-grade students, the state’s only category of students to have all taken the MCAS. SPS CPI gains in grade 10 include a 1.2 point lift in ELA, 1.6 in math and 1.3 in science. Comparatively, state gains in those areas were 0.9 in ELA and 1.2 in science. The state experienced a decline of 0.1 points in math. The percentage of SPS 10th-graders scoring proficient or above increased six percentage points since 2012 in ELA, compared to an increase of three percentage points for the state. SPS 10th-grade students experienced a one percentage point proficiency increase in math, compared to zero for the state during that same period. The effects of the improvements are significant, Warwick said.

See MCAS page 15

2 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Preparing for MCAS 2.0 and beyond Springfield Public Schools (SPS) works hard to stay tuned to any change the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) mandates, working alongside DESE as early as possible to position ourselves favorably for the implementation of any new process that will impact the DANIEL J. WARWICK district. Our work to prepare for the next generation of standardized testing in Massachusetts has been no exception. Nearly three years ago, the state announced its intent to replace the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). In these early days, the state pointed to the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness of College and Career (PARCC) test, a national model, as the replacement.

CITY OF SPRINGFIELD DOMENIC J. SARNO, MAYOR SCHOOL COMMITTEE MAYOR DOMENIC J. SARNO, CHAIR CHRISTOPHER COLLINS, VICE CHAIR BARBARA GRESHAM DENISE M. HURST REV. DR. CALVIN MCFADDEN ATTY. PETER MURPHY ROSA PEREZ BAO KIM, STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE PUBLISHED BY: SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS DANIEL J. WARWICK, SUPERINTENDENT WWW.SPRINGFIELDPUBLICSCHOOLS.COM SUBMIT STORY IDEAS TO: AZELL CAVAAN CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

1550 MAIN ST. SPRINGFIELD, MA 01103 TEL: 413-787-7575 [emailprotected]

PRODUCED BY: GRANT COMMUNICATIONS

Early on, we learned of the features that distinguished PARRC from MCAS. Most notably, was the fact that PARCC required students to analyze problems in a way that offered greater insight into the child’s readiness for college and career than did MCAS. Secondly, the PARRC scoring system included five levels while MCAS used only four performance levels. Another big difference was that while MCAS was taken on paper with a pencil, PARRC was going to be a computer-based test. Fully understanding that MCAS was already the nation’s toughest assessment test, SPS took every opportunity to learn more about PARRC, educate ourselves and our community about it and begin preparations. Included in those preparations was the voluntary effort last year of about two-thirds of our schools to take the PARCC test as part of a two-year trial. The proactive approach proved valuable. This year, the state announced that the new assessment test will use some of the national PARCC items in combination with

some Massachusetts-specific components. DESE has been clear in explaining that the test will have great similarity to the PARRC test. Dubbed MCAS 2.0, the test will be mandatory for all Massachusetts schools in 2017. In choosing to administer the PARRC last year, I believe our district has an advantage as we head toward MCAS 2.0 in 2017. I am proud that many of the students and staff of Springfield Public Schools have already become familiar with the new testing system that we must all adopt. Every district throughout Massachusetts has a great deal of preparation and adaptation ahead to prepare for the MCAS 2.0, but Springfield Public Schools will once again be leading the way.

Daniel J. Warwick is superintendent of schools.

Leveling the field White Street Elementary School made a dramatic leap earlier this year from Level 4 (in need of improvement) to the pinnacle, Level 1, proving to the state its commitment to school improvement and student achievement gains. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education announced the status change in December. White Street was one of only four schools across the state to exit Level 4 status. It had been designated as a Level 4 school since March 2010. The school’s redesign plan included three priorities: (1) Develop and deliver effective, well structured, Common Core-based lessons, including measurable objectives, explicit instruction, and activation of higher order thinking skills, appropriate student engagement activities and assessments. (2) Solidify and strengthen its system for addressing the social, emotional, and health needs of its students to continue to decrease behaviors that interfere with learning. (3) Develop collaborative and data-driven Professional Learning Communities, with teacher leadership, shared decision-making and clear avenues of support. Principal Kristen Hughes, who serves as principal at both White Street and Milton Bradley schools, said the school turnaround was a team effort, crediting strong collaboration and professional development. A total of 464 schools statewide are currently classified as Level 1 for meeting their performance benchmarks, including gap narrowing goals.

Students at White Street Elementary School celebrated the results of their 2015 MCAS with ice cream. The school was classified as Level 1 in December.

CONSULTING GROUP

ATHLETIC SUCCESS IN THE FALL u 781-598-8200

[emailprotected] WWW.GRANTGROUP.COM

The Putnam and Renaissance boys and girls soccer qualified for the MIAA Western Mass. Tournament u Central football won the AA Conference and MIAA Div. 1 Western Mass. championship u Girls volleyball at Commerce, Central, Putnam, and Renaissance qualified for the MIAA Western Mass. Tournament u Renaissance Girls volleyball won the Metro Division championship

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 3

T N E LE D U OFI T S R P

A leading voice Central’s Bao Kim represents peers on Springfield School Committee

By MEAGHAN CASEy

Bao Kim is the student representative on the School Committee. PHOTO: Sean Browne

As the student representative on the School Committee, Central High School senior Bao Kim has a pretty powerful role—to be the voice of the district’s entire student body. “I was thrilled to take on this position,” said Kim. “It’s been absolutely enlightening. Whenever I attend these meetings, I find out more about every initiative and protocol and the effort behind each decision.” Kim serves alongside seven members of the School Committee, including Mayor Domenic Sarno, who serves as chairman. The committee meets twice a month and is responsible for setting school policy, approving curriculum and discipline policies, passing the annual budget, deciding on textbooks, approving contracts for buses and personnel, and more. Kim had been active as a student leader before, serving as junior class president, but was thrilled to take on more responsibility. “I almost couldn’t believe it when I found out I would be going to meetings with the mayor,” said Kim. Ranked 14th in his class, Kim has been named a Mass Mutual Academic Achiever and is eligible for the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. He

From left, City Councilor Bud Williams and Springfield Superintendent Daniel Warwick, Mayor Domenic Sarno, Joan Kagan, Janis Santos and Dexter Johnson announce the Springfield Cooperative Preschool initiative.

Grant helps early childhood students get the SCOOP In keeping with a shared commitment ensuring that Springfield's children receive all the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has partnered with three highly regarded regional early educators to provide free preschool for qualifying families.

The initiative, known as SCOOP (Springfield Cooperative Preschool), is a collaborative of SPS, HCS Head Start, Square One and the YMCA of Greater Springfield. The program became available this school year to the city's 4-year-old children. Enrollments are still being accepted.

was also one of two in his class to earn the Key Award from Elmira College, qualifying him for a higher scholarship to the college, should he choose to attend there. He plans to study pre-med next year and is considering a career in sports medicine. “I definitely feel prepared for the years ahead,” said Kim, who is currently taking Advanced Placement Biology. He has also studied anatomy and physiology through Pioneer Valley Area Health Education Center’s REACH (Recruitment and Educational Assistance for Careers in Health) program for youth. The son of Vietnam immigrants, Kim will be the first in his family to earn a college degree. He has two younger brothers in grades 3 and 7 in the district. Kim also competes on the winter and spring varsity track teams. He ran cross country last year, but opted to perform in last fall’s play, “Antony and Cleopatra.” He serves as vice president of the National Honor Society and is involved in National History Day. “I like the challenge of keeping busy,” said Kim. “In the end, all that matters is what you get out of each experience. I wouldn’t be where I am today without all of them.”

“Springfield Public Schools is simply thrilled about this initiative, especially as a partnership model,” said Superintendent of Schools Daniel Warwick. “We know that our schools and educators cannot and must not perform in a vacuum. When we are able to combine our resources with like-minded, established organizations with track records of success, then our students are the greatest benefactors, and I am so pleased that this partnership serves our youngest children, giving them a stronger start from the beginning.” To qualify for the program, children must be 4 years old and cannot have previously attended preschool or formal childcare. Their family income must be at or below 200 percent of the federal guidelines. For a family of four, that amounts to $48,500 annually, for example. Interested families should contact any of the initiative's partners for more information. “High-quality early education is a vital part of every child's future achievements,” says Joan Kagan, President & CEO of Square One. “When children and their families are engaged at an early age, they are far more likely to succeed academically and socially. Studies have shown that children who attend highquality preschool programs are not only better prepared for kindergarten and beyond, but are also less likely to commit crimes and abuse drugs. The SCOOP initiative reinforces our shared commitment to ensuring that every family has the opportunity to provide their children with a quality education.” “It is wonderful opportunity for the children and families of Springfield as well as for the

partners involved,” said Dexter Johnson, Interim President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield. “Collaboration and cooperation are the most effective ways to ensure that the youth of our community have the best chance for success. Children need the opportunity to grow academically, physically and emotionally. The SCOOP initiative will definitely assist families in making that a reality.” “It is a great time to be a 4-year-old in the city of Springfield and HCS Head Start is pleased to join Springfield Public Schools, Square One and the YMCA of Greater Springfield in partnership to create additional high quality preschool opportunities for young children in Springfield,” said Janis Santos, Executive Director of HCS Head Start. “I know firsthand that providing children with a high quality early learning experience is vital to the child, the family and to our community. Study after study show that children benefit tremendously by participating in a high quality preschool program. HCS Head Start is excited to be an early learning provider here in Springfield and we are looking forward to the upcoming school year.” More details on the qualifications, as well as registration information can be found at springfieldpublicschools.com; or by contacting any of the initiative's partners: * Square One: 413-858-3165 * HCS Head Start Inc: 413-788-6522 * YMCA: 413-206-5698 * Springfield Public Schools Parent and Community Engagement Center: 413-787-6959.

4 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

The age of the outdoor Renaissance Renaissance School juniors Anissa Nieves, Abel Togba and Alice Swan, environmental science teacher Casey Hale and sophom*ore Lea Estien explore Abbey Brook.

Students, environmental groups and $40,000 grant benefit Abbey Brook By Cy RUS MOULTON

Brook is a part of this watershed; flowing into the Chicopee River, which then flows into the A few years ago, Abbey Brook contained Connecticut River. many of the species common to an urban Abbey Brook is also about 80 feet from the waterway: old tires, shopping carts, and beer Renaissance School, and students in the bottles. But thanks to some Springfield ninth-grade environmental science class now students and help from local and federal taught by Hale have been measuring the water environmental groups and a $40,000 grant, quality in the brook for about a decade, Abbey Brook is undergoing a revival. recording information including the water’s “It’s a critical waterway and ties into pH, temperature, and levels of chlorine and Connecticut River…and it’s our back yard,” dissolved oxygen. said Casey Hale, an environmental science Hale said that three years ago, she was teacher at the Springfield Renaissance School. taking a group of her students walking around “Now what we’re doing is taking the brook as part of the class’ unit on the responsibility for the local environment to a Connecticut River watershed. The students whole other level, and we’re attacking idea of were so horrified with the condition of the education as a theory, and making it brook– not just the trash, but also areas of education as a community activity.” erosion, algae blooms and iron oxidation Abbey Brook flows for about 1 ½ miles, that the class organized a cleanup day where with half of the waters in Springfield and half about 70 of the 90 students taking the class in Chicopee, said Mark Maghini, manager of gathered on a Saturday to remove trash and the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and debris from the brook. Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses the land “There was a much, much larger response and waterways in Massachusetts, to that than I had ever anticipated,” said Hale, Connecticut, Vermont and New Hampshire who challenged the students who didn’t show that drain into the Connecticut River. Abbey up to do another type of community project

(they ended up organizing a coat and blanket drive for the homeless). “It definitely brought to mind the idea that teaching was so much easier when it was something that was relevant to them, part of their community.” The next semester, the class studied global climate change and, again, looked for a local connection to the unit. They found David Bloniarz of Regreen Springfield, a local group that plants and advocates for trees in the city. Students worked with Bloniarz and members of the United States Forest Service on projects including an electronic tree database to record information about each tree in the Springfield urban forest. The students learned about the economic, aesthetic and environmental values of trees, and looked at the change in the amount of trees over time. When the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Forest Service decided to apply for a grant to help restore Abbey Brook, the ninth graders were a natural choice to be one of many organizations with which to collaborate on the project, Hale said. On September 14, the collaborating

organizations held a ceremony to designate a Springfield Urban Wildlife Partnership and celebrate the awarding of the grant. Maghini and Hale said the exact details of the partnership still have to be worked out but both she and Maghini said that students will be getting their hands dirty…or perhaps wet. “The first thing we’re hoping to get into is collecting baseline data with a more intense effort from the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife, and area universities,” Hale said. “Beyond that, my hope is that my students will be able to actually be part of the physical restoration - get their hands in there.” Maghini said that he viewed the partnership as a great way to get students to understand the larger impacts of local efforts. “I would like them to have a greater appreciation for nature in their own backyards, to know what natural areas exist and to have a greater understanding of them,” said Maghini. “I’d also like them to recognize that everybody lives in a smaller or sub watershed that connects with a larger one, and that the actions and concern they show locally contribute to the larger outcomes.”

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 5

College matters for U UMass program helps students prepare for the future By RICH FAHEy

Engineering Arts and Mathematics). “One of the programs we work closely with is A program conducted during October with nine the nursing program at UMass-Amherst,” said Springfield public schools as part of College and Scippio- McFadden. “Students visited health Career Awareness Month aims to educate students classrooms doctor's office and met with nursing about possible careers and opportunities to attend students and faculty.” college. Another program saw students interact with The nine schools were selected via a lottery professors of landscape architecture—the men drawing on Sept. 30 to participate in the College and women who plan what communities will look Matters for U Program, sponsored by the UMass like—and each day, on the way to their school, Center at Springfield. Forest Park Middle School students pass a The schools that weren’t picked to be part of section of Forest Park whose design was done by the October sessions will all be given an one of those professors, a living example of what opportunity to attend programs sometime between can be accomplished. January and June, according to Jamina ScippioStudents also learn about the skills it takes to McFadden, director of marketing and public run a business or be an entrepreneur. relations for the UMass Center. Scippio-McFadden said after the October McFadden said the UMass Center is part of the programs, the decision was made to offer it to all University of Massachusetts system and provides schools that wanted to participate. “We decided to information on the system, including the flagship bring in the other nine schools in the spring with Amherst campus, but also provides information the long-term goal of making this a year-round on careers and colleges outside of UMass, program.” including the two area community colleges it At the elementary and middle school levels, the partners with: Springfield Technical Community seed is planted that secondary school education is College and Holyoke Community College. both possible and affordable. At all there levels, a The programs the center conducts are at the presentation on “Education Within Reach” elementary, middle school and high school levels, emphasizes the opportunities available. tailoring each program to the ages and needs of For the high schools, the focus is more on the students involved. college readiness, with admission process, college Schools participating in the October programs and career fairs, and information on the were Chestnut South, Balliet, Kiley and Forest application process and financial aid. Park middle schools; Liberty, Glenwood, and High school students conduct a question and Springfield Public Day elementary schools; and answer session with a college student in “What I the High School of Science and Technology as didn’t Know: A College Student’s Perspective,” well as the Springfield Conservatory of the Arts. attend an Exploring Careers College Fair and Scippio-McFadden said the mission of the listen to a presentation from an admissions College Matters for U is to create a pipeline of counselor. students to higher education, and to alert students “This is very important because many students of the existence of affordable secondary school have parents who haven't gone to college and they options in the Greater Pioneer Valley, including might not have seen it as a life option,” said its community college partners. Scippio-McFadden. “The workshops we offer The program not only alerts students to high schoolers have more of a sense of urgency secondary school options but also allows them to because the clock is ticking on their readiness for explore possible college majors, especially in the college.” so-called STEAM areas (Science, Technology,

Springfield students participated in the College Matters for U, sponsored by the UMass Center at Springfield.

6 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Scholar Athletes Executive Director Rebekah Salwasser, center, joined (from left) student Tara Murphy, zone facilitator Katie Shea, students Gary Parenteau, Stacey Fogle, Crystal Carmenatty, Lauryn Peguero, Dinasty Velazquez, Deonte Daniels, Jayden Morgan and Alejandro Cabrera, zone facilitator Lauren Stock and Principal Sara Pragluski-Walsh to celebrate the opening of the Springfield Scholar Athletes Zone at the High School of Science and Technology. support and resources for all students at a school. The athletic component—which also includes intramural sports and a health/wellness component as well as varsity sports —is based on the already-proven link between athletic participation and positive academic performance. The Zones provide all students with a safe, quiet academic environment. During the day and after school, students have access to computers, school supplies, college applications, and trained Scholar Athletes staff to help them complete their homework, get ahead on their studies, and learn about options for higher education. College readiness programming includes SAT prep courses, access to resume building workshops, college fairs, college campus visits, and summer job placements. The SSA Zones at Putnam and the High School of Science By RICH FAHEy and Technology are managed by full- time, fully-trained zone More and more Springfield Public School students are facilitators who provide academic coaching and mentoring. getting into “The Zone”— and finding it the place to be. High School of Science and Technology Principal Sara The Springfield Scholar Athletes (SSA) Zone at Roger L. Pragluski-Walsh said she has found the SSA Zone to be a Putnam Vocational-Technical Academy debuted in August 2014 “multi-faceted program for both athletes and non-athletes and a and quickly became a success, with some 250 students getting place where they can get one on one support.” involved. One facet is as a sports-specific study hall with wraparound That made it easy to expand the program to another school. services. The Scholar Athletes Zone at the High School of Science and “Monday, members of the cross-country team might stay Technology launched at the beginning of this school year and after school and study as a group,” she said. was formally recognized with a ceremony in November where She said the center serves as a resource for academic Mayor Domenic Sarno, Superintendent Daniel Warwick and intervention and provides a home base where athletes and teams Executive Director of Scholar Athletes Rebekah Salwasser were can check in. joined by students, staff and local business partners. “It also provides a venue and a platform where coaches can A third zone is expected to open next September. stress academics first,” Pragluski-Walsh said. “A coach can The Springfield programs are based on the Scholar Athletes check in on a student's academics and get the needed support Zones Suffolk Construction CEO John Fish founded in Boston services right there.” six years ago to great success, and are now in 24 Boston She praised the SSA staff for working closely in public high schools, serving 4,200 students. collaboration with classroom teachers when students are The centers allow student-athletes to reach their full potential assigned to the SSA zone for specific intervention in a subject by supporting academic achievement through athletics via the matter. Zones—school-based learning centers that provide academic Katie Shea, the SSA zone facilitator at the High School of

Scholar athletes are in the zone

Student Stacey Fogle showed off the college banners in the new Scholar Athletes Zone.

Science and Technology, said the number of students visiting the center has been building steadily, with 200 students participating in all and about 40 each day. The zone is open for two class periods during the school day when students who are assigned to the center or students who get passes from teachers can visit, and then is open after school. Shea said the staff tries to make things “fun and exciting” for students while providing a safe academic space. Students have already had the opportunity to talk to Putnam students who were in that SSA center last school year and are now in college and are mentoring High School of Science and Technology students by describing their experiences. Shea reminds students that the SSA Zone is open to all students, and that intramurals and health and wellness programs are also part of the program. Daphne Griffin, deputy executive director for the program, said the Putnam program quickly expanded to about 250 members in its first year, and that the hope is that another 250 students will eventually find their way into the High School of Science and Technology. Participants in the Boston SSA program, by the end of the 2013-14 school year, had a graduation rate of 95 percent, were provided with more than $835,000 in college scholarships, saw 85 percent of participants go on to college and 99 percent of seniors in the Zones graduating with a postsecondary plan. Griffin said the program will be closely tracking the alumni of the Springfield centers, keeping in touch with them and following up to see what effect the program is having on their academic progress. “We see athletes coaching each other when it comes to learning,” she said. “They lift each other up. It becomes a community of learners They are taking it and owning it.” Griffin said the Springfield programs have benefitted from both he schools and the district being on board. “They've been two great supportive schools with great support from the district,” she said. “That's an important component in any partnership.”

Cutting the ribbon were zone facilitators Lauren Stock and Katie Shea, Principal Sara Pragluski-Walsh, Superintendent Daniel Warwick, Executive Director Rebekah Salwasser, Mayor Domenic Sarno and student Alejandro Cabrera.

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 7

Specialized learning Putnam students build rooms for life-skills education By Cy RUS MOULTON A galley kitchen with new appliances and a bedroom set aren’t typical furnishings for a classroom. But a program where students with disabilities and vocational students collaborate to learn practical life skills isn’t that typical either. “To see them get an opportunity to learn skills and get an opportunity to learn things that are going to help them in life really is heartwarming and encouraging,” said Nancy Retchin, a longtime specialeducation supervisor at Springfield Public Schools, in describing the special-education students. Then she switched to discussing students at the Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical Academy. “But I can’t say enough about Putnam: How much of their heart, soul, and sweat they put into this… It was Putnam students who helped put [the classroom] together. That’s what makes it even more huge.” The alternative program, which is housed at Putnam, serves about 100 students ages 18 to 22 with special-education needs. With topics ranging from the soft skills of how to get along with peers and interact with coworkers to unique learning challenges such as filling out a job application, using a bank, or cooking a healthy meal, the program provides life skills training as well as work opportunities for students who typically have one or more cognitive disabilities, Retchin said. But such skills aren’t best learned in a lecture hall. So when the program expanded to the Putnam school this year, Retchin said she and other special-education leaders wanted to provide an environment with as much practical training as possible. “We wanted the concept of what you would do if you were in an apartment and, since we were adding a classroom at Putnam, we

thought ‘what a great place to start this,’” Retchin said. She was given a small budget for a few appliances and mentioned the idea to Putnam officials. But she was surprised with their reaction. “They were so onboard, and I started to hear everybody in the building was becoming involved,” Retchin recalled. “They found us a refrigerator, found us the appliances, and said don’t worry about it, we’ll configure the setup.” One of those people involved was Joao Alves, a manager at the vocational school. Alves recruited students who were working in a schoolaffiliated summer work program to take on the apartment classroom as a project. Carpentry students hung cabinets. Students studying electrical and heating, ventilation and cooling helped install the stove and hood and wire the apartment. “From the kids who are going to use it to the kids who are going to build it, they got some handson work that now they can see the fruits of their labor,” Alves said. “It creates a family atmosphere and gives kids chance to practice their skills.” Retchin agreed. Especially when those students do really good work. “I have to say I thought, wow, I wouldn’t mind having that kitchen; they paid attention to the aesthetics to it as well as the functionality,” Retchin said. “Everything you do for students is a partnership, there’s no one person who can deliver everything. So when you go into a school, a department, and find that people are willing to work together for the betterment of our students it can only make things improve.”

Electrical students Tyler Rainville and Julio "Ricky" Negron and carpentry students Mike Montanez and Tiequaon Bloodworth were four of the students who helped build the kitchen.

The apartment is helping special-education students learn life skills.

PHOTOS: SEAN BROWNE

Putnam electrical student Julio "Ricky" Negron explains where they ran wire to install electrical outlets in the kitchen.

Th e s PRIn g FIe LD e DUCa TOR Winter 2016 - 9

8 - Th e s PRIn g FIe LD e DUCa TOR Winter 2016

5

Magnet school distinguishes itself with National Title 1 recognition

2

4

By Me a g h a n Ca s e y

3

1

1. La’Niya Mullen, left, and Adriana Burgos Sanchez use their artistic skills. 2. Kate Clark and Lauren Carrasquillo play the violin. 3. Khaji Charles, center, and Tessa Ruel, right, work in the classroom. 4. Angelo Rentas demonstates a tune on the violin. 5. Classmates perform at the Zanetti Montessori Magnet School.

“This is an amazing accomplishment and Principal Tara Clark and the Zanetti staff, students and school community It was a banner year for the Alfred G. Zanetti Montessori should be very proud of all that they’ve accomplished to Magnet School, which was named a 2015 National Title I dramatically improve the educational outcomes and futures Distinguished School. for every student,” said Joan Tuttle, Director of the Office of The National Title I Association has been selecting District and School Turnaround for the Department of examples of superior Title I school programs for national Elementary & Secondary Education. recognition through the National Title I Distinguished An emphasis on data analysis to determine student growth Schools program since 1996. Zanetti was one of only about and intervention needs is one of the reasons the school 100 schools across the country to earn the coveted exited Level 4 and has continued to show signs of recognition this year. Only one other Massachusetts school improvement. Clark also credits the exceptional professional was honored— Community Day Charter Public School in development opportunities for teachers, as well as the Lawrence. school’s strong family network. Community partners such as Zanetti qualified for the award because of its continued Reader to Reader, Springfield College, Americorp, Sisters of success in closing the achievement gap between student St. Joseph and Community Music School of Springfield groups. have also stepped up to support literacy and enrichment “This was a huge award for us and for the City of programs at the school. Because of those partnerships, Springfield,” said Principal Tara Clark, who took leadership students are more engaged in the arts, enjoying activities of the school in 2010. “Over the past five years, we’ve such as violin and ballroom dancing lessons. closed the achievement gap and moved from a Level 4 As part of the recognition, Clark and a team from Zanetti school to a Level 1, and we’ve stayed at Level 1. We’ve will attend the National Title I Conference, which will be built a true culture of excellence. The teachers believe in this held in Houston, Texas, this winter. school and what we’re doing. We’re all excited, but aware that we need to do a lot more work to stay on top.”

10 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Training for 106-mile bike ride helps Commerce counselor shed 80 pounds

riding for her life

Ride to Remember. About a week before the ride, students made ribbons to sell, and helped Coleman sell t-shirts downtown to raise money for the event. The day before the ride, colleagues decorated Coleman’s office with messages of support, including many pictures of Wonder Woman in reference to Coleman’s nickname at the gym. And the pipe dream became reality. “It was really a proud moment to finish it and do it, and do it with my husband and show the support for the police department and the fallen By Cy RUS MOULTON officers,” Coleman said. “I was blessed by the outpouring of the love I got.” She initially thought completing a 100Plus, the reality wasn’t that scary. “It mile plus bike ride was “a pipe dream.” But wasn’t too hard for me because I had two years later, 80 pounds lighter and with done so much training,” Coleman support from students and staff at admitted. Springfield’s High School of Commerce, So now it’s on to the next challenge: Tracey Coleman not only cycled 100-plus maintaining her weight and fitness miles, but chronicled on a blog how she (Coleman currently weighs 145 pounds) Tracey Coleman, before and after training made that pipe dream come true in hopes of and inspiring and helping others by sharing inspiring others. her story through her blog “Tracey’s Getting “The biggest thing preventing people from with pain and prevented her from repetitive, “I was devastated,” Coleman said. “He Fit.” exercising, the thing that probably deters high intensity activity, Coleman recalled. was 24 when he died, and I was 45 and just “We’ve all been trying to become them the most, is they don’t see progress But in September 2013, Coleman’s wasn’t taking my life and health seriously.” healthier,” said Erica Lebel, a fellow right away so they give up, or they have an husband Brian participated in the Springfield So she kicked her training into high gear, guidance counselor at Commerce who obstacle that comes up, that prevents them Police Department’s first Ride to Remember, working out six days a week with a new credited Coleman with helped tone up her with sticking to it, and give up,” said a 106-mile bike trek from Springfield to trainer and focusing on flexibility. It helped arms for her wedding. “We would make Coleman, a guidance counselor at Boston in memory of officers killed in the her deal with both the emotional pain from lunches for each other sometimes, we would Commerce. “So I write a lot about that— line of duty. the loss and the physical pain of her arthritis. go out to eat and make sure there were about nutrition and fitness, but mostly about That January, Coleman decided that this Her surgeon canceled an operation to help healthy things for her and us to eat.” motivation and sticking with your goals.” time—the heaviest she had ever been at 238 her arthritis and Coleman got a bike, joined Coleman said her fitness journey has also But it took awhile for Coleman to see the pounds—she was going to stick with her training rides with a group from the local helped her be a better guidance counselor. rewards of sticking with her fitness goals. regular New Year’s Resolution of losing bike shop, and started pedaling to get ready She said she is able to relate better with A self-professed bookworm growing up, weight and eating healthier. So she began for this September’s Ride To Remember. students who worry about body image, she is Coleman “didn’t do sports in high school; I working out with a trainer. She did a Rugged “It was threateningly scary to think ‘how more empathetic, and she is more willing to wasn’t good at them, didn’t like them, and as Maniac obstacle course in September 2014 am I going to do this, it’s going to be 100 open up and share her feelings with students. an adult I didn’t do them either.” with her husband, and then thought that she miles, and really hilly,’” Coleman recalled. “I can tell them at the least that I am She became heavy as an adult—or, as a might want to do the Ride to Remember. But she had support not just at the gym human and that I have been through my own student who recently saw an older picture of But that November, her trainer—a 24and bike shop, but at Commerce. things,” said Coleman. “That I am a human, Coleman called it, “‘mad chubby”—and was year-old, healthy young man—suddenly got Many kids participating in a dress-down and I can persevere.” bothered by arthritis that often crippled her sick and died. day wore blue to support a fundraiser for the

Tracey Coleman cycled in the Springfield Police Department’s Ride to Remember, a 106-mile bike trek from Springfield to Boston in memory of officers killed in the line of duty.

Tracey Coleman was encouraged and given support from the students and teachers at Springfield’s High School of Commerce.

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 11

Fashioning a career in style PHOTOS: HARRIS DAVEY JR. AND DARRIUS JOHNSON

By MEAGHAN CASEy Fashion designer and Springfield native Justin Haynes finds inspiration in the everyday scenery and patterns around him. “I can spend hours in a fabric store or walking the streets, just envisioning designs,” he said. “Textiles and textures inspire me. I don’t use patterns. As I sew, I begin to create.” Haynes, who graduated from the Springfield High School of Science and Technology in 1999, knew he wanted a career in fashion when he first started sketching in ninth grade. He began making prom gowns and styling for classmates and also started working as a sales associate at Gap. He worked his way up the industry ladder at Gap over the next 13 years, being promoted to sales supervisor to assistant manager to store manager to visual director, and finally to district visual director. Next, Haynes was hired as regional director for ALDO Shoes. Following that, he worked for five years on the marketing team at Brooks Brothers. “Those experiences in retail taught me everything,” said Haynes. “I learned about every aspect, from marketing and sales to window displays. It also fueled the desire I had since age 16: to have my own label.” Six years ago, that dream came true when Haynes launched his very own brand, JUS10H. “It was a big step, but I knew it was something I had to do,” he said. Focusing on color and structure to create his unique, oneof-a-kind pieces, Haynes can create a full collection in three to four weeks. A single dress or blazer will typically take him a week to produce. “It was reality check for me starting out because I’m not selling as fast as the big retailers,” he said. “It’s a oneperson job, producing items piece by piece and by custom order, so that’s been a shift.” He designs for men, women and children. His client base is primarily in Boston, but also New York City, Philadelphia, Ohio and Montreal. Haynes has been inspired by designer Ben Sherman because “he’s so consistent in his brand,” as well as his grandmother, who was a talented sewer. Haynes still has many of her original patterns. Haynes’ styles have been featured in magazines such as

Paragon Styles and Chic Republic. He has produced a number of runway shows on his own and his clothing has been featured in 15 fashion shows within the last year. On Dec. 12, he headlined the 5th Annual I Am Me Kid’s Fashion Show at the MassMutual Center. Haynes has also started teaching an enrichment class at Duggan Academy called Style Prep. In the fall, students learned how to thread a needle, sew and iron, as well as how to dress for an interview. “Presentation is everything,” said Haynes, who also encouraged the students to discover their own personal style. For a final project, students had to recreate new fashion pieces from items that they had in their closets. “Working with the kids was such a great experience,” said Haynes. To learn more or to browse Haynes’ lookbooks, visit www.jus10h.org.

12 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Helping teachers feel right at home By MEAGHAN CASEy For many young professionals new to a city or job, the prospect of living amongst co-workers in an affordable, luxury property is probably an appealing one. That’s the hope at SilverBrick Lofts—a newly renovated apartment complex at 15 Taylor St. in Springfield’s downtown business and entertainment district. Springfield Public Schools teachers are being offered special discounts on studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Standard rental rates start at $899. The SilverBrick Group, the Manhattan-based developer, partnered with Springfield Public Schools and DevelopSpringfield to offer this affordable luxury housing incentive. “SilverBrick believes that providing affordable luxury housing is critical to a thriving downtown because it attracts young professionals such as teachers, education administrators and their families,” said Aaron Papowitz of The SilverBrick Group. “Our strong partnership with Develop Springfield and Springfield Public Schools connects the teaching community to our incredibly dedicated on-site staff. We are thrilled that the teaching community feels at

home at SilverBrick Lofts.” Approximately 20 SPS teachers have taken advantage of the opportunity and are living in the loft apartments, which feature exposed bricks, reclaimed wood beams, arched windows and high ceilings. Residents also have access to a fitness center, game room and lounge and outdoor space. Covered parking is available to SPS teachers at a discounted rate as well. “It’s definitely an advantage for recruiting,” said Bonnie Roy, the district’s human resource manager. “We’ve had a hard time attracting new talent in the past. For new teachers moving to a brand new city, we want them to be part of a community and not feel isolated. Living in the same complex, they can help each other out and hopefully mentor new tenants in the future.” California natives Sandra Sanchez-Saavedra and Joseph Kim are two teachers who are enjoying the experience. Sanchez-Saavedra, who grew up in Los Angeles and graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara last spring, is in her first year teaching sixth-grade math at Van Sickle Academy. She moved into her loft apartment in August and has committed to teaching in Springfield for at

least two years through Teach for America. “Because other teachers are living here, I’ve built relationships with them,” said Sanchez-Saavedra. “I love the building. Everyone’s so friendly and welcoming, and we have everything we need right here—from shopping to bus routes.” Kim, who is also in Springfield through Teach for America, is originally from Orange County. He is a recent graduate of Amherst College and is teaching sixth-grade English Language Arts at Kennedy Middle School. “I was familiar with this area from going to school in Massachusetts, so Springfield was one of my top choices,” he said. Having never lived on his own before, Kim is finding SilverBrick a perfect fit. “After four years of dorm life in college, I was new to the process of searching for an apartment,” said Kim. “To be set up with a tour right away and have a place readily available in downtown Springfield was a plus for me. I’ve been loving it. It’s fully stocked with everything we could need and many weekends I’ll spend time with other teachers, catching up and talking about our weeks. It’s a great environment.”

Zanetti Principal Tara Christian Clark, Alternative Schools Principal Rhonda Jacobs, STEM Principal Kevin Lalime, Mayor Domenic Sarno, Renaissance Principal Arria Coburn, Commerce Principal Diane Bauer, Asst. Supt. Lydia Martinez, Warner Principal Ann Stennett, United Way Executive Director Dora Robinson and Glenwood Principal Martha Cahillane.

Nine schools recognized for good attendance For the first time since the Stay in School Attendance Cup Trophy initiative began, nine Springfield Public Schools were amongst the fourth round of recipients. While eight schools are normally awarded the prize, the initiative’s first tie has resulted in the awarding of an additional trophy. Mayor Domenic Sarno and Assistant Superintendent Lydia Martinez presented the winning schools trophies at an assembly at Glenwood Elementary School. In addition, the Stay In School initiative will present an SPS premiere of several short videos

aimed at helping families understand the importance of good attendance. The "Attendance Cup" celebrates schools which have earned the distinction of having either the highest attendance rate or the most improved attendance rate of a marking period. The awards ceremony, an initiative of the community-wide Stay in School campaign, a partnership between the United Way of Pioneer Valley and SPS was launched last year to help increase student attendance throughout the school district.

Fall 2015 Attendance Cup Winners* HIGHEST/MOST IMPROVED: Alternative Public Day Elementary - 94% Liberty Prep - up 4.8% Elementary Glenwood - 96.3% Zanetti - 96.3% Warner- up 1.2%

Middle STEM - 96.5% STEM - up 2.5% High Renaissance High (9-12) - 94.5% Commerce - up 4.0%

*Winners based on school attendance data for the 2014-15 school year.

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 13

Jim Provost, manager of Gerry's Music Shop in South Hadley

Gerry’s helps students strike a high note By RICH FAHEy Jim Provost has a saying when urging students to get involved in music programs in their schools. “Be in the band,” he says. “No one is sitting on the bench.” When it comes time to getting students involved in music and giving them the means to do so, Provost, the manager of Gerry’s Music Shop in South Hadley, gets off the bench and into the game. He talked the talk and he walked the walk when he made it possible for six Springfield middle schools to each get 20 instruments—120 in all—as part of the Sonido Musica program, which provides free lessons to students in the six middle schools. The first year of the program saw students learning on stringed instruments. Other instruments were added in the second year with Provost's help, and now the award-winning program is in its third year. Last June, the Community Music School of Springfield and Springfield Public Schools were presented with a Yale Distinguished Music Education Partnership Award—one of 38 given nationally—for their collaborative efforts in creating Sonido Musica. Middle school principals choose the composition of the 20 eligible students in each school on whatever criteria best suits the goals of each school, and in most cases students have had no prior musical training and are representative of the school's broad demographics. Each partner school has lessons either during the school day or after school, depending on their individual schedules. Performances are built into the program as well. Provost said he has worked closely with both Julie Jaron, director of the Visual & Performing Arts Department of Springfield Public Schools, and Eileen McCaffrey, executive director of the Community Music School of Springfield, and that their work and the work of others has not gone unnoticed.

Musician Jeremy Turgeon shows students how to play their brass instruments, donated by Gerry’s Music Shop. “There's been a renaissance in the city in terms of its support for the arts and music and it's come from the top down,” he said. “I think the city has seen the intrinsic value of music and in a way sees it as part of a back to basics movement.” Provost believes the data is in and the results tabulated when it comes to the benefits students get from music and becoming part of a larger initiative such as a school band. Jaron said the district has been able to quantify some of the benefits from music programs by seeing fewer disciplinary issues and declining rates in suspensions with students who are part of the music program, but a study being conducted by UMass professor Dr. Sara Jones may more closely chart the benefits to those students involved in the program. When Jaron contacted Provost, who has had a relationship with the district in maintenance and repair of school instruments, about helping out getting in instruments for the Sonido Musica program, he responded in a big way. He contacted vendor KHS Musical Instruments of Nashville, Tenn., and the company offered “a tremendous discount” on 120 new or “gently used” instruments, which Provost and Gerry's Music donated to be used during the program. Gerry’s Music Shop first opened in Holyoke in 1948. Norm and Ann Provost purchased it in 1974 and moved it to South Hadley in 1994, and are still listed as co-owners along with son Jim Provost, 45,who grew up in South Hadley with his four older siblings and graduated from South Hadley High and Stonehill College. After a brief career in politics as an aide to a state representative, he began working at Gerry's in April of 1992 as a sales and educational representative, serving more than 40 school districts in Massachusetts and Connecticut. He now wears a large collection of hats as store manager— he still enjoys spending time in the repair shop working on instruments—and he and his wife of 20 years, Mandy, the business's office manager, live in South Hadley with their four children. Since his business works with so many school districts in Massachusetts and Connecticut, Provost sees part of his role as an advocate for school music programs, a role his parents helped steer him towards. “When music programs are in danger of being cut or reduced, we provide educators with the information on the benefits of music programs so districts can make informed decisions,” he said. Provost said he is also involved in setting up a 501-3 nonprofit group called A Symphony for Saints to serve as a clearing house where instruments can be donated and music teachers can find instruments. “Music can serve as a gateway to other things,” he said. “Dedication, cooperation, being part of a team, these can all be ingrained in students at a young age through a music program.” “I don't have enough good things to say about him,” said Jaron about Provost. “He's always been there when we've needed him.”

Melitza Martinez, top, plays a scale of notes on a clarinet. Jangabriel Figueroa Guzman, middle, performs on the trombone and Suleymarie Rivera Ramos, bottom, performs on the trumpet. All are Chestnut Middle School North students. PHOTOS: SEAN BROWNE

14 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Kennedy students enjoy the fruits and vegetables of their labor On Nov. 19, students at Kennedy Middle School were treated to kale and 100 pounds of sweet potatoes, harvested from their own school garden. The vegetables were part of a Thanksgiving lunch that also included turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and locally grown apples. This is the third time the Kennedy School kitchen has benefitted from the garden—which consists of four beds behind the school, where a tennis court was once located, as well as a hoop house. Students work to plant, cover crops and spread compost throughout the year. The gardening project is made possible through a collaboration involving Springfield Growing the

Community (GTC), the district’s garden coordinator John Alphin, Kennedy Middle School teacher Lisa Cupillo and Sodexo, which is the school district’s food service provider. Last year, students enjoyed collard greens, kale and multi-colored carrots that were served both steamed with lunch and raw in the salad bar. “Obviously the nutritional value outweighs that of canned vegetables, but for many students, the highlight is getting to try something they had a hand in creating,” said Michael Wolcott, Executive Chef for Sodexo Food Services. “That’s the biggest step in promoting healthy eating. Once they try it, often times they like it.”

Arnice Luckey, left, and Kenney Menendez Jr., were served some of their school-grown sweet potatoes. PHOTOS: Sean Browne

Head Cook Mary Sienkiewicz and teacher Lisa Cupillo gathered with students, from left, Yamali Cruz, Arnice Luckey, Yandel Batista, Xavier Hernandez, Omar Torres and Kenney Menendez. The group helped grow sweet potatoes from the Kennedy School garden that were served as part of a Thanksgiving lunch.

Sweet potatoes that were grown in the Kennedy School garden were served as part of a Thanksgiving lunch.

AROUND SPRINGFIELD public SCHOOLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

High-performing Dryden

The Collaborative for High Performance Schools has recognized Mary A. Dryden Veterans Memorial School as a high performance school that has earned CHPS Verified status. CHPS Verified is a green school building rating program that combines a rigorous state-specific standard for the design and construction of healthy, high performance school.

Special gifts at Gerena

Several families from Gerena Elementary School received special presents over the holiday season. Patricia Arocho, parent facilitator at the school, coordinated a Giving Tree for the first time at the school. Staff and local community partners "adopted" one family per class and every member from the household received a special gift.

school connections and whole-child development, the Springfield Education Association and Springfield Public Schools implemented programming that contributed to academic improvements at Boland, Bowles, Dorman, Sumner, and Walsh elementary schools. Called the Springfield Collaboration for Change, the grant-supported initiative provided funding for educators’ professional learning and development, parent-teacher home visits, and services for students’ social-emotional development. Results of the collaboration include improved student attendance, fewer disciplinary issues, increased parent involvement, and improved student learning at the schools.

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Successful collaboration

The National Education Association (NEA) President Lily Eskelsen García toured several schools this fall as part of NEA's celebration of student success. Supported by a five year grant from The NEA Foundation that focused on home-

Tagged as the “American Blade Runner,” Blake Leeper took a break from intensive training for the 2016 Paralympic and Olympic Games for Team USA to pay a visit to students at Kennedy Middle School. Born with a birth defect that led to a lifetime of prosthetic legs, Blake has earned several national medals for track and field. Middle School families are invited to attend one of two Project Safe Childhood Presentations on internet safety presented by the US Attorney’s Office, the FBI, Homeland Security and Project Safe Childhood. The presentations will take place Jan. 14 at Chestnut and Jan. 28 at Kiley. All sessions will be held 5:30-7:30 p.m. The first session was held Dec. 17 at Duggan.

Hoop legends at Commerce Governor visits Duggan

Students at John J. Duggan Academy received a special visit from Gov. Charlie Baker, who learned about the improvements the schools has made as part of the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership. Currently, Duggan is transitioning from a middle school to a grade 612 social justice theme Expeditionary Learning Magnet School under the leadership of Principal Michael Calvanese.

Healy was joined by Andre Tippett, Executive Director of Community Relations for the New England Patriots, Mayor Domenic Sarno, Superintendent Daniel Warwick, District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, among other guests.

Internet safety stressed

HIGH SCHOOLS

Reading ‘heroes’

The 2015 Summer Reading Club had a superhero theme and Springfield’s own superhero, Menzuo, delivered a trophy to the schools with the highest percentage of readers. An assembly was held at winning schools Mary M. Walsh School and Alfred G. Zanetti Montessori Magnet School to celebrate their achievement.

Paralympian inspires students

Enshrinement Weekend included a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students at the High School of Commerce. Basketball legends Spencer Haywood, Teresa Edwards and Katrina McClain spoke to students about the importance of believing in yourself, working towards goals and making healthy choices.

Game change at Central

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey spoke to students at Central High School announcing the school’s involvement with the new initiative Game Change: The Patriots Anti-Violence Partnership.

DISTRICTWIDE

Cradle to Crayons to coats Putnam prepares for college

Applying for college can be a daunting task, but thanks to special partners from the region, students from the Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy received guidance at their school’s library. Putnam opened its doors to more than 15 colleges and universities during a two-day event that was part of the Massachusetts College Application Celebration (MCAC) with GEAR UP. Several institutions even reviewed applications and handed acceptance letters and scholarships on the spot to qualified students.

Renaissance march

The entire Springfield Renaissance School Class of 2016 marched to a mailbox with their college applications, counting the support of their school community who lined in the route to cheer them on. This celebration, known as #CollegeMarch, originated in New York City across NYC Outward Bound Schools and has become an annual ritual nationwide.

Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts joined Springfield Public Schools at the Parent and Community Engagement Center to deliver a coat donation for students in need. Cradles to Crayon has supplied 2,000 winter coats to be distributed this winter season to prepare children for frigid conditions as part of the organization’s Gear Up for Winter program. The organization also donated 6,400 backpacks last summer.

Book donation a big success

The Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals extends a sincere thank you to everyone who helped to make the Truck of Books for Springfield initiative a success. Because of community support, the organization was able to bring more than 47,000 books into Springfield homes.

Reading volunteers wanted

Many elementary schools are still looking for Read Aloud volunteers. Can you help? Call Springfield School Volunteers at 413-787-7015.

THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016 - 15

Springfield

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Gerena

Jennifer Montano, Principal 52 Rosewell St., 01109 413-787-7446

Glenwood

Balliet Beal

Deborah Beglane, Principal 285 Tiffany St., 01108 413-787-7544

Boland

Lisa Bakowski, Principal 426 Armory St., 01104 413-750-2511

Bowles

Mark McCann, Principal 24 Bowles Park, 01104 413-787-7334

Bradley

Kristen M. Hughes, Principal 22 Mulberry St., 01105 413-787-7475

Brightwood

John Doty, Principal 471 Plainfield St., 01107 413-787-7238

Brookings

Terry Powe, Principal 433 Walnut St., 01105 413-787-7200

Brunton

Martha Stetkiewicz, Principal 1801 Parker St., 01128 413-787-7444

DeBerry

Stefania Raschilla, Principal 670 Union St., 01109 413-787-7582

Dorman

Rhonda Stowell-Lewis, Principal 20 Lydia St., 01109 413-787-7554

Dryden Memorial

Sheila Hoffman, Principal 190 Surrey Rd., 01118 413-787-7248

Ells

Janet Perez Vergne, Principal 319 Cortland St., 01109 413-787-7345

Freedman

Medina Ali, Principal 90 Cherokee Dr., 01109 413-787-7443

D IRECTORY Schools

Cynthia Escribano, Principal 200 Birnie Ave., 01107 413-787-7320

Deanna Suomala, Principal 141 Washington St., 01108 413-787-7551

Homer

White Street

Kathleen Sullivan, Principal 43 Homer St., 01109 413-787-7526

Kristen Hughes, Principal 300 White St., 01108 413-787-7543

Indian Orchard

K-8 SCHOOL

Lynda Bianchi, Principal 95 Milton St., 01151 413-787-7255

Zanetti

Tara Christian Clark, Principal 474 Armory St., 01104 413-787-7400

Johnson

Darcia Milner, Principal 55 Catharine St., 01109 413-787-6687

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Kensington International

Margaret Thompson, Principal 31 Kensington Ave., 01108 413-787-7522

Liberty

Robin Bailey-Sanchez, Principal 962 Carew St., 01104 413-787-7299

Lincoln

Sharon Ralls, Principal 732 Chestnut St., 01107 413-787-7314

MCAS: from Page 1 “We know these gains will be reflected in our graduation rate and will help to ensure that all of our students graduate ready to go on to college or begin a successful career,” he said. While these gains represent academic growth over a three year period, the chart below shows the district’s MCAS CPI improvements from 2014 to 2015 as reported by DESE.

Chestnut Accelerated

355 Plainfield St., 01107 413-750-2333 North: Jason Hynek, Principal South: Daniel Sullivan, Principal TAG: Colleen O’Connor, Principal

Forest Park

Thomas Mazza, Principal 46 Oakland St., 01108 413-787-7420

Kennedy

Linda Wilson, Principal 315 No. Branch Pwky., 01119 413-787-7250

MCAS scores on the rise for third straight year

ALTERNATIVE SAFE SCHOOLS

Washington

Shannon Collins, Principal 58 Hartford Terrace, 01118 413-787-7254

James McCann, Principal 45 Sumner Ave., 01108 413-787-7430

Van Sickle Academy

Ann Stennett, Principal 493 Parker St., 01129 413-787-7258

Harris

Sumner Avenue

Walsh

Warner

Elizabeth Bienia, Principal 120 Ashland Ave., 01119 413-750-2756

Valerie Williams, Principal 1435 Carew St., 01104 413-787-7266

Putnam

Vinnie Anthony Regan, Principal 50 Empress Ct., 01129 413-787-7448

Glickman

Pottenger

STEM

Carla Lussier, Principal 1395 Allen St., 01118 413-787-7249

Martha Cahillane, Principal 50 Morison Terr., 01104 413-787-7527

Lynch

Talmadge

Ryan Kelly, Principal 1385 Berkshire Ave., 01151 413-787-7510

Kiley

Christopher Sutton, Principal 180 Cooley St., 01128 413-787-7240

South End

Cheryl DeSpirt, Principal 36 Margaret St.,01105 413-750-2442

ALL STUDENT ELA Math Science

CPI Increase 6.0 2.6 0.6

GRADE 10 ELA Math Science

CPI Increase 2.0 2.3 0.9

Kevin Lalime, Principal 60 Alton St., 01109 413-787-6750 Matthew Kuzmeskas, Principal 1170 Carew St., 01104 413-750-2887

Van Sickle International Baccalaureate

Daisy Roman-Davis, Principal 1170 Carew St., 01104 413-750-2887

6-9 SCHOOL Duggan

Michael Calvanese, Principal 1015 Wilbraham Rd., 01109 413-787-7410

6-12 SCHOOLS

Springfield Conservatory of the Arts David Brewster, Principal High School: 334 Franklin St., 01104 413-732-1301 Middle School: 34 Kopernick St., 01105 413-787-6914

Renaissance

Arria Coburn, Principal 1170 Carew St., 01104 413-750-2929

George Johnson, Principal 1300 State St., 01109 413-787-7424

Rhonda Y. Jacobs, Principal 413-335-5127 Dr. Mary Anne Morris, Chief of Pupil Services 413-787-7176

Springfield Public Day Elementary Lisa Pereira, Assistant Principal 34 Nye St., 01104 413-886-5100

Springfield Public Day Middle Linda Singer, Assistant Principal 118 Alden St., 01109 413-787-7261

Springfield Public Day High Breon Parker, Principal 90 Berkshire St., 01151 413-787-7036

Liberty Prep. Acad.

Dwight Hall, Assistant Principal 37 Alderman St., 01108 413-750-2484

Early College High School

Dwight Hall, Assistant Principal Holyoke Community College 413-552-2176

Gateway to College at HCC Vivian Ostrowski, Director Holyoke Community College 413-552-2013

Gateway to College at STCC

Central

Jennifer Sanchez, Acting Director Springfield Technical Community College 413-755-4581

High School of Commerce

Sarita Graveline, Asst. Principal 111 Seymour Ave., 01109 413-787-7284

HIGH SCHOOLS

Thaddeus Tokarz, Principal 1840 Roosevelt Ave., 01109 413-787-7085 Diane Bauer, Principal 415 State St., 01105 413-787-7220

High School of Science and Technology

Sara Pragluski-Walsh, Principal 1250 State St., 01109 413-750-2000

Warwick added that the state’s accountability initiative has had noteworthy success throughout the district, with many of the district’s Level 4 schools experiencing double digit MCAS gains. Some of those highlights include: • The High School of Commerce, where the percent of 10th-graders achieving proficiency in ELA rose from 51

Balliet Middle School

Springfield High School

Matthew Bean, Asst. Principal 37 Alderman St., 01108 413-787-7285

Student Attendance Resource Center Michael Ellis, Asst. Principal 37 Alderman St., 01108 413-552-6495

percent in 2012 to 67 percent in 2015. • The High School of Science and Technology, where the percent of 10th-grade students achieving math proficiency rose 12 percentage points between 2014 and 2015. • White Street Elementary School, where the percent of students achieving proficiency in ELA rose from 19 percent in 2012 to 55 percent in 2015; and 75 percent of those students achieved math proficiency, up from 27 percent in 2012. • DeBerry Elementary School, where the percentage of students achieving math proficiency has tripled since 2012. “As an urban district, our goal is to narrow the performance gap that exists between us and the state and we’ve been able to progress towards that goal over the past three years,” said Warwick. “We laid a good foundation and we keep building upon it.”

16 - THE SPRINGFIELD EDUCATOR Winter 2016

Grant is music to students’ ears By MEAGHAN CASEy When the GRAMMY Foundation presented Central High School with its Signature Schools Community Award and a grant of $2,000, it was music to band members’ ears. Band Director Ray Dandurand, who has twice been nominated for the Grammy Music Educator Award, said Central was one of about 80 schools to earn the award this year. Since 1989, approximately $800,000 in grants has been distributed to approximately 421 schools in almost all 50 states. The money is earmarked to help further music education and bring the joy of music to the next generation. Funding for the award was made possible by a generous donation from the Hot Topic Foundation. Dandurand received the grant money on Dec. 10. “We were in complete shock, because I got the call out of the blue,” said Dandurand. “They saw we were doing a lot and fit the criteria. I told the students, ‘this is what happens when you’re doing the right thing when you think no one’s watching. Sometimes you can reap the rewards.’” Central’s band program, which was nonexistent 11 years ago, has grown to include more than 200 students who make up the Screamin’ Eagle Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz

Alisha LopezMarrero plays the trumpet at Central. PHOTO: SEAN BROWNE

Band, Intro Band, Percussion Ensemble and Colorguard. The Marching Band, which performs at all home football games, also performs at numerous parades and events throughout the year including the Big E, Gillette Stadium and Stone Soul Festival. For the first time this year, the group competed in regional marching band competitions—earning

the state and Division IV championship titles. The band was also asked to march in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., and has twice sent trumpeter Alisha Lopez-Marrero to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as part of the Great American Marching Band. The Jazz Band has also performed in regional competitions such as the Clark Terry Jazz Festival at the University of Massachusetts and the Holyoke Community College Jazz Festival. “Kids are starting to come to Central now for the band,” said Dandurand. “That’s exciting. In the last five years, the program has skyrocketed and we’re finally at cruising altitude. It’s not about growing in numbers at this point, but improving. We can start looking for other opportunities to perform or to send students off to college with music scholarships.” The Central music department also has a strong choral program directed by Jeanne Parks. Dandurand said that while the grant from the GRAMMY Foundation will benefit the department as a whole, the funds will be primarily used to purchase new band instruments.