FROM SUPERINTENDENT DAVID FLEISHMAN 

Change in Arrival Procedures for Newton Elementary Schools

June 1, 2017

Dear Elementary Families,

As this school year winds to a close, we begin planning and preparation for the next school year. Part of this preparation includes an evaluation of current practice and areas for improvement. As discussed at our School Committee meeting last night, we would like to share with you our new drop-off procedures for elementary schools.

In Newton, some of our elementary schools give families the option to walk their children into the building for morning drop-off. When we opened the new Angier and relocated Zervas students to Carr, we determined it was safer and more efficient for families to drop students outside the school. This has worked very well at these two schools and we will now expand this procedure to all Newton elementary schools.

The rationale for the change is three-fold:

Maintain school security – Conducting drop-off outside the school allows us to more carefully monitor adults going in and out of the building. It is our number one goal to keep our students safe. Establishing this new practice provides increased security for all.

Foster student independence – School is an opportunity for elementary students to learn the skills they need to be successful and independent learners. Entering the school on their own and preparing for their day is an important skill to master at the elementary school level.  

Start instruction on-time – We view every minute of our school day as precious time for learning and instruction. When students arrive at the classroom on their own, the teachers can move them more seamlessly into the rhythm of the day. Both Angier and Zervas have found this to be the case.

These changes will go into effect for the 2017-18 school year.

We know this is a change for our families, many of whom have enjoyed bringing their children into the building, helping them to begin their day, and saying hello to teachers and staff. We hope that you will understand that we believe this shift in procedure is best for both the security of our buildings and the academic and social/emotional growth of our students.

Your school principals will provide specific details for the new drop-off procedures over the summer. Staff will be on hand at all schools to assist students and to ensure they reach their classrooms safely.

Thank you for your understanding and I hope your family has an excellent finish to the school year.

Sincerely,

David Fleishman