What is the best procedure if I have a concern regarding my child?

If the concern has to do with something in the classroom (homework, problem with another student in class) first, contact the classroom teacher. If you need further information or the concern involves a problem on the bus, playground, or even a home situation contact the principal (Dr. Cormier) or assistant principal (Mrs. Kimble). If your concern is one involving a family situation or the child's emotional well being, call Mr. Nelson the guidance counselor. If you are not sure whom to contact, feel free to ask any one of us and we will be glad to direct your concerns to the correct person.

Is it possible to get a tour of the school?

The school holds an open house one evening in September and on that evening all areas of the school are open for parents and visitors. Orientations for those interested in preschool or kindergarten are held during the school year. For new families moving into town, a tour can be scheduled by calling the school at 978-433-2787.

Are there curriculums and can I view them?

The district has curriculums developed for all academic areas. These curriculums are developed by committees of teachers from each school in the district and are continually updated. All curriculum work is supervised by the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum. The curriculums are available to review by contacting the school. All curriculums are based on the Massachusetts Department of Education Curriculum Frameworks. We suggest logging into the DOE website at www.doe.mass.edu to view the frameworks.

What is the entrance age for kindergarten?

In order to enter kindergarten in our school district, a child must be 5 years old by August 31st of that school year.

Do we have full day kindergarten?

We have both full and half day kindergarten. During March registration parents may enter a lottery to determine if their child will gain one of the slots for the full day program. The remaining names are placed on a waiting list. Once the lottery is held at the end of March a child can only attend the half day program.
Is there a marked difference between the full and the half day kindergarten programs?
No. The basic program is the same and the curriculum content is identical. The basic difference between the two programs is that full day kindergarten children take part in lunch, lunch recess, and a rest time followed by some additional activity time in the classroom.

May I request a teacher for my child?

No. We do not take specific teacher requests. Placement of students for the following school year takes place during April and May of the previous year. A series of meetings including the principal, assistant principal, guidance counselors, and teachers take place during those two months. Careful consideration is given to balancing numbers of students, inclusion of students at all academic levels, and students with specific needs. You may send a letter to the principal or assistant principal stating any concerns you may have and the type of learning environment you feel is most appropriate for your child.

How can I become more involved in my child's education?

The Peter Fitzpatrick School has an active PTA. The PTA newsletter will list dates of meetings and the many activities they sponsor throughout the school year. We also have a large and active group of volunteers. Forms to volunteer at PFS go home on the first day of school. There are a number of areas in which you can volunteer including in classrooms, the library, the copy room, and assisting the nurse. All volunteers and chaperones must fill out a CORI form (criminal offense record investigation) prior to volunteering, including chaperoning field trips. Most importantly, keep in contact with your child's teacher through parent conferences and phone calls. Assist your child with his or her homework on a regular basis, read to him or her daily, and read all notices that come home weekly in the Fitzpackets.