Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates

Below are the latest District updates regarding our actions in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and planning for a Return to School. Individual school updates should be available via email. If you are not receiving emails please reach out to the main office at your student's school to ensure your email information is up to date.

Resources and links with more information are provided in the left hand side menu.
We will communicate updates regarding COVID-19 to this page as they develop.

Definition of Positive Case

Definition of Close Contact

In school settings, close contacts include other students and staff who were within 6 feet of the student or staff for at least 15 minutes in a classroom, in other school spaces, on the bus, or at an extracurricular activity.

In elementary and other school situations where the students are in self-contained classrooms for an extended period, all students/staff within this “cohort” are considered close contacts as they may have been within 6 feet and at least 15 minutes of the person with a positive test result.

The above dashboard reflects self-reported COVID-19 positive cases and cases of active quarantine involving students or employees. Note: Data totals are updated daily with the most accurate figures available. In addition, any positive cases associated with the Town of Norton residents are captured in the Norton Board of Health dashboard.

2020-2021 School Year Email Updates

April 16, 2021

Superintendent's Return to In-Person Learning Update

COVID-19 Dashboard

Starting Friday, April 16 at 3 p.m. and continuing through Monday morning April 26, please utilize the following form for reporting student positive COVID-19 cases or close contact exposure. The NPS Nurses are unavailable during the vacation week. This information will be shared with them upon the return from break.

The district continues to monitor and publish daily COVID-19 data on the district site.

DISTRICT UPDATES

Superintendent’s Message

As we enter the Spring Break this coming week it is time to reflect on the last few weeks of school. Locally we have been one of the first districts in the region to return to in-person learning. This took place because of the work of NPS employees.

Our return has had some issues including cases in some of our schools that have caused numerous students to be quarantined. It is important that families continue to prioritize health and safety every day. Sending a potentially sick child to school could mean the shutting down of a classroom or school. Please continue to be vigilant.

Lastly, upon returning from the Spring Break please consider testing if you traveled.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Grades 6-12 Virtual Parent Coffee Hour
When: May 4, 2021 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Login Details:
https://zoom.us/j/91032716782?pwd=eG9JV2RwNXdQNmkyUGMwQjJhY2FxUT09
Passcode: 952820
Webinar ID: 910 3271 6782

Grades PreK-5 Virtual Parent Coffee Hour
When: May 11, 2021 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Login Details:
https://zoom.us/j/95032471188?pwd=UHJzdGtwNG9LYUYzQUpYVHJkaDM5Zz09
Passcode: 361390
Webinar ID: 950 3247 1188

Spring Craft Fair Sponsored by NHS Class of 2021 | Saturday, May 1 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

April 9, 2021

Superintendent's Return to In-Person Learning Update

COVID-19 Dashboard

The district continues to monitor and publish daily COVID-19 data on the district site.

DISTRICT UPDATES

Superintendent’s Message

This week we became one of the first districts to have fully returned to in-person learning PreK-12. It was an exciting week and we need your attention to detail in order to stay in-person. The CDC has not changed the six-foot contact tracing protocols for Grades 6-12 and the cohort model for the elementary grades. With students in Grades 6-12 at no less than three-feet it is imperative that families check for symptoms daily before coming to school. Just as important is what we do outside of school and with the upcoming April vacation as well. Being cautious continues to be our request.

I also want to mention the school budget request of a 5.5% increase. Currently we will not receive this much needed increase in order to support student priorities. However, I am attending the Finance Committee meeting on Monday, April 12 at 7 p.m. Zoom information is on the town website.

This coming week, on Thursday, April 15, the 6:30 p.m. School Committee meeting will be in-person and available via zoom. The meeting is not open to the public in-person except by invitation for presentations. However, keeping the zoom option allows for your continued involvement.

NOTEWORTHY INFORMATION

ParentSquare Notifications

Are you overwhelmed with the number of emails, texts, and app notifications you are getting from ParentSquare? Set your notifications to Digest and you will receive one email and/or one text and/or one app notification providing access to all ParentSquare information at the end of the day. Learn how to here: https://parentsquare.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360040910132-Notification-Settings-

If you have not registered your ParentSquare account and/or would like the Communications Office to adjust your notification settings for you, please email Karina Sallaway at ksallaway@norton.k12.ma.us.

Champions Before and After School is Now Enrolling for Summer 2021 and School Year 21-22

Enroll Now at www.discoverchampions.com

Questions? Reach out to Site Director Meghan Barishian at 774-331-7450 or at ch004945@discoverchampions.com

April 2, 2021

Superintendent's Return to In-Person Learning Update

NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

Norton Public Schools Earns Top Honor in 2021 Magna Awards Program for Equity Work

Norton Public Schools has been selected as a National School Boards Association (NSBA) 2021 Magna Award winner. NPS was recognized for its commitment to equity as a first place winner in the 27th Annual Magna Awards program. NPS is one of 15 winners--three Grand Prize and 12 first place winners--across the nation receiving this honor.

Sponsored by NSBA's flagship magazine, American School Board Journal, the Magna Awards honor districts across the country for their programs that advance equity and break down barriers for underserved students. NPS was selected as a winner by an independent panel of school board members, administrators, and other educators.

Norton Public Schools is highlighted in the April issue of ASBJ. Read about the Priority One: Social-Emotional Learning award winning program and the other winners at www.nsba.org/ASBJ.

COVID-19 Dashboard

The district continues to monitor and publish daily COVID-19 data on the district site.

DISTRICT UPDATES

Superintendent’s Message

This week we returned in-person at NMS. In general it was a good week at NMS.

Overall, we had a significant number of students quarantined based on individual positives and the potential of our first student transmission. We are awaiting further documentation to make that determination. Regardless, the regulations surrounding quarantining do not go over well with most. Yet, it is the protocol and we communicate with both the Norton Board Of Health and MA Department of Public Health. These decisions are not made in a vacuum.

My expectations during these return days are simple - student, teacher, and staff collaboration. Working as a team and creating positive relationships are key.

Like you, I worry. Like you, I want what is best. I will work daily to eliminate worry and create a positive daily schedule.

Talk soon!

March 26, 2021

Superintendent's Return to In-Person Learning Update

The district continues to monitor and publish daily COVID-19 data on the district site.

DISTRICT UPDATES

Superintendent’s Message

The Commonwealth has changed the Travel Mandate to a Travel Advisory starting on March 22, 2021. This advisory still suggests not traveling to other states or countries, but the once mandatory travel form no longer needs to be completed. It also notes that testing three days prior to returning to Massachusetts is the best way to continue to be vigilant.

The district will be announcing a Student Recovery and Acceleration Learning Plan for this coming fall of 2021. This Learning Plan will prioritize extended day academic support for students in the areas of literacy and mathematics K-12. More information to be published this summer.

The district will also file for a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education early acceleration grant that will provide support the week before the start of school in August of 2021. More information to be published in the coming weeks.

Class of 2021 Graduation information will be provided to families the week after April vacation. We anticipate that the Class of 2021 will graduate on Friday, June 4. The event site is currently the NHS Football Field. Rain dates information to be provided.

On Monday, March 29, 2021 Grades 6-8 will return to in-person learning.

For questions, comments, and constructive feedback please go to the district website at www.norton.k12.ma.us and utilize the “Let’s Talk” option.

Have a great weekend.

Food Service

The breakfast boxes and remote lunch boxes are still available to be picked up at the Norton High School. The pick-up day is Monday from 12:30-2 p.m. If this day or time does not work for you, please email the Food Service director at mvaccaro@norton.k12.ma.us.

Please note that Monday, April 5 will be the last Monday for meal pick up. As of Friday, April 9 the pick-up day will be switched to Fridays 2:30-4 p.m.

Technology Department

Mobile charging carts were received on Wednesday for the JCS and LGN classrooms to house student devices. The technology department unpacked, wired, and distributed all 36 carts before the end of the school day on Thursday. Students will transport devices and chargers to and from school only if directed by their classroom teachers.

Please refer to the communication sent out previously for more information about Chromebook and iPad usage for the remainder of the school year. Visit https://bit.ly/2Pz6xVH for more details.

Transportation

Transportation is $52. If you need to register your student(s) for the bus please do so on our Transportation page.

Parents dropping off and picking up students are reminded that they are not allowed on school grounds until 10 minutes before the school open time. Please see your individual school return plan for the specific times.

March 22, 2021

Message from Dr. Baeta: Updates

Dear Educators, Students, and Families,

I am communicating today to provide a few updates for all involved with NPS.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, March 23, our PreK-5 classrooms will return to in-person learning. We are very excited about the opportunities before us. However, I must ask that we all work together and prioritize health and safety. Each day before your child leaves for school PLEASE check for symptoms. Specifically, look for a cough, fever, body aches, etc. Do NOT just send your child to school as any potential COVID-19 situation will lead to the classroom being sent home, with students having to be tested or staying home until Day 10, etc. This will have a direct impact on teaching and learning.

We are seeing a significant decline in positive cases in the community of Norton. This is wonderful news. We all know, however, that it just takes one case to close an elementary classroom for days. Let's work together to make sure this does not happen.

Lastly, I will communicate every Friday at 6 p.m. to provide you a weekly update. Data and incidents of COVID-19 will drive our daily and weekly decisions.

Welcome back to our elementary students. I am excited to visit with you over the coming days and weeks.

March 19, 2021

School Lunch Program Updates & Reminders

Dear Families,

The Norton Public Schools is sending this email with a couple of updates and reminders about the school lunch program.

We are reminding our families that school breakfast and lunch are being provided at no charge this school year to students. Meals are being provided to any student, and we are no longer requiring a pre-order of the meals. Students will go to the cafeteria daily and will be able to grab the meal of their choice. Students are still allowed to bring their own meal from home.

The weekly food order form is no longer being used. This form was created to support the school bus delivery of food, and with the bus delivery program ending there is no longer a need for the form. We will still be providing a time for families to pick-up meals at the high school if they are remaining in remote learning or if they have non-school age children that need meals.

For students that remain in remote learning, or for families that need meals for non-school age children, we are still providing meal pick up at the high school. Please note that there will be a change in three weeks to the day and time for pick-up. Pick-up of meals will be available the next three Mondays 3/22/2021, 3/29/2021, and 4/5/2021 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Starting on 4/9/2021 the meal pick-up will then switch to Fridays from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The location will still be at the high school, but will be relocated to the auditorium entrance, as sports will make the rear of the building inaccessible.

A final item we would like to mention is that we encourage families to complete a Free and Reduced Meal application if they feel they may qualify. Although meals are being provided at no charge to families this year, those that qualify for Free or Reduced Meals are eligible for other benefits such as no charge for busing and a reduced charge for athletic fees. The Free and Reduced Meals application can be accessed on the Norton Public Schools webpage using the following link: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Application.

As always, please feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns.

Thanks,

March 17, 2021

NPS Return to In-Person Learning Guide

Dear NPS families,

I have previously announced the return dates for Grades PreK-5 and 6-8. Today, I am announcing the return of Grades 9-12 for in-person learning with a start date of Thursday, April 8.

The Return to In-Person Learning Dates are as follows:

Professional Development Day for all NPS Staff NO SCHOOL: March 22
PreK-5 Return In-Person Learning Day 1: March 23
Grades 6-8 Return In-Person Learning Day 1: March 29
Grades 9-12 Return In-Person Learning Day 1: April 8

Please follow this link to view the current NPS Return to In-Person Learning Guide. It is subject to change and will be noted when it was last updated on the first page. This guide is a general overview, more specific information, by school, will also be shared with families.

Best,

March 9, 2021

NPS Return to In-Person Learning Grades 6-8

Dear NPS Community,

As I noted at the Thursday, March 4 School Committee meeting we are returning to in-person learning for Grades PreK-5 on Tuesday, March 23. March 22 will be a Professional Development Day for All Staff PreK-12 and schools will be closed to students.

I also noted that I was preparing to announce the return of in-person learning for Grades 6-8. Today, I am announcing the return of Grades 6-8 for in-person learning with a start date of Monday, March 29.

The return of Grades 9-12 will be announced upon further review.

Protocols for returning in-person will be made available later this week.

Best,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285-0199

March 12, 2021

Transportation Update

Dear families,

The Norton Public Schools has posted the large yellow bus routes that we expect to use starting with the return of students on March 23, 2021 and extending through the remainder of the school year. There is no change to minibus routes at this time. The updated routes are similar to those that have been in place for past years. Please note that these routes are subject to change.

If you are not currently registered to ride the bus and would like your student to ride the bus, you will need to go to the Transportation page of the Norton Public Schools website and register your student. We ask that you complete this registration no later than Wednesday, March 17, 2021. If you are responsible for payment of a bus fee, the bus fee for the remainder of this year is $52 per student and will need to be paid at the time of registration.

The State has issued new guidelines on school bus transportation. These new guidelines can be viewed on the Transportation page of the Norton Public Schools website. In summary the State guidelines have lifted the capacity restrictions on buses. We intend to monitor our ridership with the goal of maintaining no more than two children per seat in line with the update State guidelines.

Thanks,

March 5, 2021

NPS Return to In-Person Learning Timeline

Dear NPS Families,

At the March 4 School Committee meeting I announced the NPS Return to In-Person Learning timeline and important topics. The information is as follows:

Monday, March 22 is a Full Day PreK-12 Staff Professional Development Day (no school for ALL students PreK-12).
On Tuesday, March 23, Grades PreK-5 will return in person to all of our elementary schools. (Further details to be shared next week.)
On or about March 9 I will announce a return date for Grades 6-8.
Grades 9-12 will be announced later this month.

The issues before us are much more than just opening the doors. We must move classrooms, desks and chairs, plan for lunches, recess and transportation. At each school these are moving parts.

It is also important to keep in mind the classroom or school closure COVID-19 protocols, which have NOT changed. Elementary students are still classroom cohorts. If a classroom has a case then the entire classroom is quarantined as per protocol. At the secondary level it is based on contact tracing protocols.

The educators of NPS are excited and anxious. They are thoughtful, flexible, and kind and can't wait to see their students. We will need your patience and understanding during this transition.

Thank you for your continued support. More information will be forthcoming next week.

Best,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285-0199

Feb. 24, 2021

Return to School

Dear NPS Community,

During a meeting with members of my administration team yesterday, I learned from Channel 5 News about the Commissioner’s proposal to return elementary students fully to school by April 2021.

Since the hybrid opening, NPS has been reviewing key programming for our students on a weekly basis. We adjust our delivery of education for students according to what best suits their needs, while keeping physical and social emotional health in mind. Although some have articulated their desires for a return to school, my staff and I have decided that safety considerations should be first and foremost. That said, we all know that returning to school is in the best interest of our students.

Prior to yesterday’s announcement, our team has been working on a full return to school for ALL students at every grade level. These discussions include mitigation best practices with attention to classroom physical distancing, mask wearing, sanitation, transportation, recess, and lunch. Some guidelines by DESE and CDC have changed or been updated and provide some flexibility.

Unlike other districts, a remote-only return in the Fall of 2020 was NOT an option by our local unions. They wanted to be back within a safe environment educating our students. As a district we spent just under $1 million dollars in federal funds for upgrades to the facilities and technology. We added new cleaning protocols that a 22-member professional custodial staff implemented. Our workforce is concerned for the safety of their students as well as their loved ones and themselves. Educators are also spouses, parents, and may be caring for elderly parents.

It was that commitment by the NPS team that provided our staff and their unions a clear understanding of our trust and commitment to each other, our students and our families. That will NOT change under my leadership. The entire NPS community is wanting and ready to return.

We will provide the community a road map for returning. All communication will be provided via email as well as available on the Coronavirus Updates page on our website.

Sincerely,

Feb. 12, 2021

Updates

Dear NPS Families

I hope you are all doing well!

I wanted to provide a quick update on our attention to matters related to CoVid and fully reopening our schools.

Currently, we continue to work on reopening plans including developing a family survey, communication plan, a plan for the vaccination of school employees, mitigation plans and final implementation. Before any information is finalized we are awaiting information on transportation, lunches and the like from both the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education AND CDC. I received information on transportation yesterday and CDC information is expected any day.

Any plan will require a continuation of safety being our number one priority. Moreover, it is important to note that the next two weeks are very important as we all know some people are traveling during February vacation. Our CoVid positive and quarantine numbers continue to improve every day. However, that can change quickly.

I know that a reopening will require attention to detail and the continuation of health and safety protocols being in place. Unlike districts around us who have closed for up to two weeks, we have not been at that level. I believe it speaks to the pre-planning and implementation that has taken place. I assure you the same is happening as part of this full reopening. Our students and staff deserve our best.

I know frustration levels are high. Some of that frustration is towards me and that is fine. I understand all of the different opinions about reopening. I also know that once we reopen, I don't want to go backwards. Patience will get us to the finish line.

Have a great February Break. Stay healthy and make good decisions.

Best,

Dr. Baeta

Jan. 20, 2021

Important Update RE Influenza Vaccine Requirement

Good morning!

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is removing the requirement for flu vaccination for attendance in childcare/preschool, primary, secondary and postsecondary education. Preliminary data show that this has been a mild flu season to date, presumably as people have received their seasonal flu vaccine and have been adhering to mask-wearing and social distancing due to COVID-19. Given the intensive Commonwealth-wide efforts regarding COVID-19 vaccination, DPH wants to alleviate the burden to obtain flu vaccination and focus on continuing COVID -19 vaccination efforts.

DPH continues to strongly recommend that everyone age six months and older receive their seasonal flu vaccine each year.

The updated schedule can be found here.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Jan. 13, 2020

Hybrid Model Extension

Dear NPS Community,

The current Hybrid Model that we implemented in the fall of 2020 has undergone a review by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), along with all 303 public schools/districts/collaboratives in the Commonwealth. According to DESE we must increase “live-instruction” time to 35 hours over a two week period. Norton Public Schools currently does NOT meet this requirement. In order to be as equitable as possible, while maintaining that all classrooms regardless of title are important for students, we are implementing the following effective on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

Elementary Schedule

There will be no change to students in our Little Lancers preschool program or our Kindergarten students. In grades 1-5, teachers will plan for an hour each day of live instruction when students are required to log into their online classroom. This may look different based on the grade level of your student, but will typically follow a model like below:

15 minute morning meeting, 45 minutes of direct instruction for ELA and Math
or
30 minutes of direct instruction for ELA and 30 minutes for Math

Classroom teachers will be communicating with their students and families directly regarding their schedule by the end of this week.

Secondary Schedule

In grades 6-12, students will have at least 15 minutes of direct instruction during each class period (except for ICE at NMS and LLB at NHS) via a live platform such as Google Classroom or Zoom. These 15 minutes are not intended to be office hours or a Q&A session, but live instruction for all students, both in the classroom and joining in from home. These live sessions will be communicated by the classroom teacher to the students and can occur at any time during the block. Students are required to attend these sessions.

As these live sessions are counted as part of our instructional learning time, students at all grade levels are required to attend and will be marked absent if they are not present. New concepts and skills will be taught during these sessions as teachers will be presenting new material each day in this new model instead of repeating lessons for cohort 1 and 2.

We are also requesting that Monday, February 1, 2021 be a FULL Professional Development Day for all staff (Day 181 of the contract). This will require a make up day for students later in the year (most probably June). I anticipate making a final announcement by January 19 or sooner.

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Jan. 7, 2021

Increase in Live Instruction

Dear Families and Staff:

Recently, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) released the results of a survey in which the Superintendent of every school district in the Commonwealth was asked to provide information about student learning models currently in use. Districts were asked to outline how a typical student’s learning day is structured for the models in use, specifically at grades 1, 4, 7, and 10. The survey also asked districts to report the amount of time students spend in synchronous learning (“live” instruction from a teacher, whether in-person or online) and in asynchronous learning (including independent work, small group work with other students, pre-recorded video lessons, etc.).

In response to these survey results, DESE and the Board of Education have created new time on learning regulations that go into effect on January 19, 2021. These new guidelines impact both hybrid and fully-remote modes of instruction and must be implemented by all districts.

Hybrid Instruction is instruction that takes place both in-person and at home on a scheduled basis. All students have the opportunity to attend school in this model. Requirements of this model include:

35 hours of live instruction over a 10-school day period
Daily live check-in between students and educators

Remote Instruction is when the district is not open to in-person instruction. The majority of students would be solely learning from home with the exception of some specialized special education programs. Requirements of this model include:

40 hours of live instruction over a 10-school day period
Opportunity for synchronous instruction each school day

It’s important to note that every district’s reopening plan was presented to the community, negotiated with the local teachers’ union, approved by the School Committee, and validated by DESE officials, and ours is no exception. We are proud of the intensive process of deliberation and revision that ultimately led to our reopening plan. While DESE notes that Norton Public Schools must increase the amount of live instruction that our students in the hybrid model receive, we will continue this collaboration through this process to identify the most appropriate ways to increase high quality synchronous instruction for all students. Additionally, we want to clarify that this applies to our general education structured learning time; students who are involved in our special education programs are meeting the number of hours that are required by their individualized education plans (IEP).

During these times of change, we have relied heavily on feedback from parents, students, and staff as the most important indicator of what is working and where we need to do better. As your Superintendent, I am committed to continue listening to our stakeholders and working with families and educators to make adjustments and improvements along the way. I am incredibly proud of the entire Norton Public Schools community for the outstanding work to provide great teaching and learning to every student every day, and I remain deeply grateful for your patience, persistence, and resilience.

Sincerely,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Jan. 4, 2021

P-EBT Funds for the 2020-2021 school year

Good morning!

Students who are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals will get Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) funds through the 2020-2021 school year. P-EBT funds can be used to help you buy healthy food for your student and family. It’s important to stay healthy, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you think you are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals and have not applied you may still apply here.

How much will I get?

Eligible students in a fully remote learning situation will get $117.20 per month.
Eligible students in a hybrid learning situation will get $58.60 per month.
Students attending school either half-day or fully in person are not eligible for P-EBT.

How will I get P-EBT for October and November?

Funds for October and November will be issued in ONE issuance.
I got P-EBT in the past: You will get funds on your EBT or P-EBT card in late December.
I am new to P-EBT: If you get SNAP and/or TAFDC, look for funds to be added to the DTA EBT card you already have. If you do not get SNAP and/or TAFDC, look for a DTA letter and card in the mail in mid January.

How will I get P-EBT funds in 2021?

I got P-EBT in the past on a P-EBT card: Starting in January, check your P-EBT card for funds on the 25th of each month for the rest of the school year.
I got P-EBT in the past on my DTA EBT card: Starting in January, check your EBT card for funds on the 25th of each month for the rest of the school year.
If you are new to P-EBT:
- If you get SNAP and/or TAFDC, check your DTA EBT card for funds.
- If you do NOT get SNAP and/or TAFDC, you will get a letter in the mail from the DTA. You will also get a P-EBT card in the mail in a different envelope. KEEP THE LETTER UNTIL YOU HAVE GOTTEN AND PINNED THE CARD. The letter has your students’ case number that you need to PIN the card.

Each month, funds will be added to your card on the 25th of each month for the month before. Example: your February P-EBT funds will be based on your students’ learning situation in January.

No longer have your P-EBT card?

Request a replacement card at DTAconnect.com/pebt. If you need help getting a new card, contact School Business Administrator Matthew Wells at mwells@norton.k12.ma.us. If you need a new EBT card, call DTA at 1-877-382-2363.

IMPORTANT: Using P-EBT does not impact you or your student’s immigration status. The public charge rule does not apply to this program.

Need more food help?

If you are eligible for P-EBT you are likely eligible for SNAP, ongoing monthly food funds. Check your eligibility and apply at DTAConnect.com.
You can also get FREE grab and go school meals at any school. Find a site near you atwww.meals4kids.org/find-meal-site.

Get help: visit MAp-EBT.org

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Influenza Vaccine Requirement for School Attendance: K-Grade 12 - EXTENDED

Good afternoon!

Please review the updated information below regarding the Influenza Vaccine Requirement for School Attendance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education:

Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, the influenza vaccine will be required for all students. Students must receive the influenza vaccine for the current season (i.e., school year 2020-2021) by February 28, 2021 . This is an extension from the original 12/31/20 deadline. New students entering school before March 31, 2021 must have received a dose of vaccine for the current flu season for entry. Influenza vaccine is always important to receive to reduce the risk of getting sick with influenza, reduce the severity of disease if one does get sick (including the risk of hospitalization) due to influenza, as well as preventing the spread of influenza to others.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza vaccine will be especially critical to reduce the overall impact of respiratory illness on the population, protect vulnerable populations from severe illness, and decrease the overall burden on the healthcare system.

Which students need to receive the influenza vaccine?

Students in Kindergarten – Grade 12 will be required to receive influenza vaccine for the current influenza season for school attendance unless they have a medical or religious exemption.

When do students need to receive the influenza vaccine?

Students must receive influenza vaccine for the current season (i.e., school year 2020-2021) by February 28, 2021. New students entering school before March 31, 2021 must have received a dose of vaccine for the current flu season for entry.

Are there any exemptions to receiving the influenza vaccine?

Medical and religious exemptions are allowable in the state of Massachusetts. Medical exemptions must be renewed annually and include a statement form a physician stating that the vaccine is medically contraindicated for the student.

What type of influenza vaccine can students receive?

Any age-appropriate licensed influenza vaccine for the current season fulfills the requirement. This includes injectable and nasal spray vaccine types.

What about students who enroll later in the spring?

Students enrolling after March 31 are not required to have a dose of influenza vaccine for the current school year.

Will influenza vaccine be required every year or just for the 2020-2021 school year?

Influenza vaccine is now a required vaccine for school attendance and will be required as of December 31 for all students in Kindergarten through Grade 12 each school year. For school year 2020-2021 only, seasonal influenza vaccine must be received by February 28, 2021.

Do younger students require 2 doses according to ACIP guidelines?

Children younger than 9 may need two doses of influenza vaccine depending on the number of influenza vaccines they have received in the past. Children should be vaccinated according to ACIP recommendations, but only one dose of influenza vaccine is required for school attendance.

If my school will be providing instruction remotely, will students still need to meet immunization requirements?

The school immunization requirements, including the requirement for seasonal influenza vaccine, apply to all Massachusetts students enrolled in Kindergarten through Grade 12, regardless of whether the district is providing instruction in-person, or using a hybrid or remote learning model.

Do the flu immunization requirements apply to students that are home schooled?

Immunization requirements, including the flu immunization requirement, do not apply to home schooled students unless the student will ever need to access the school building for sports, after school activities or any other reason.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Dec. 30, 2020

Return to School on Monday, January 4 - HYBRID MODEL

Dear NPS Families:

I hope you are enjoying the holiday break.

Earlier today I informed all employees that NPS will return to school on Monday, January 4, 2021 in the HYBRID MODEL. This means that we will continue with the same schedule we were following prior to the break.

Please continue to be vigilant in your response to the current COVID-19 pandemic. It is important for us to continue to utilize masks, wash hands frequently, and keep 6 feet apart.

Best wishes for a wonderful 2021!

Regards,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Dec. 22, 2020

Norton Public School Student Meal Program Still Active

Dear families,

The Norton Adult Meals program that has been offered through the high school is coming to an end on December 23, 2020. The program was implemented as an emergency response during the COVID-19 crisis, and at this time the town is transitioning from the adult emergency response to more sustainable long term food assistance programs. We are proud of the hard work and dedication our food service team at Chartwells has displayed through this crisis and are happy to have them on our team. If you are an adult in Norton that is struggling with food insecurity, or if you know of an adult that is struggling, please reach out to Beth Rossi at the Council on Aging & Human Services at the Norton Senior Center.

The Norton Public School Student Meals program, currently operating under the USDA Seamless Summer Option (SSO), has been authorised through June 30, 2021 and is still active. There is no change in that program.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Thanks,

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Dec. 16, 2020

12/17 & 12/18

Good evening,

With the current weather details noting a significant snow storm for the region I am closing NPS for Thursday, December 17. This means it is a traditional SNOW DAY. No Remote Learning and No Digital Learning Academy or specialized programs.

Also, we will be FULL REMOTE LEARNING on Friday, December 18. The buildings will be closed and all students are remote learning or Digital Academy learning (also known as parent choice remote since September). Students are expected online as per the schedule and staff will be teaching students.

Again, we are CLOSED for a traditional SNOW DAY on Thursday, December 17 and we are FULL REMOTE LEARNING on Friday, December 18.

Why go Full Remote on Friday, December 18, 2020?

The simple reason for going Full Remote on Friday, December 18 is because of the over 130 students and staff we have under quarantine. This includes 16 employees and impacts all schools. If you look at our Dashboard on www.norton.k12.ma.us, you will see the increases we are reporting. Also, please know that this may not include information not provided by families to the schools. Lastly, the district will be asking for feedback about the Friday, December 18 remote day ASAP.

I have stated over and over again that my major concern was personnel and C-19. In other words how do we open our buildings with 16 people required to be at home under quarantine not including any other sick calls and personal days. This decision is grounded on safety and allows for us to get immediate feedback about Full Remote Learning.

Lastly, during Full Remote Learning BOTH Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 are together as a class. All schools and specialized programs are on REMOTE LEARNING for Friday, December 18.

I will communicating next steps on Friday, December 18.

Be well and stay safe,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Dec. 14, 2020

New website helps families navigate the mental health system in Massachusetts

Good morning,

COVID-19 is putting incredible pressure on families. Many of you are worried about your child’s mental health, but aren’t sure where to turn or how to get started. HandholdMA.org, a new family friendly website, can help.

The website, created by a team of mental health and child development experts in partnership with parents who have “been there,” was designed for parents of school-aged children in Massachusetts.

Handhold has three main sections:

Should I worry? Helps parents explore if their kid is just being a kid, or if their behavior is something to worry about. Parents can learn about signs to look for and get suggestions on what to do next.
What can I do? Tips, tools, and strategies that have worked for other families, sorted by topic, and picked by Handhold. These are things parents can learn about or do from home.
Who can help? Carefully selected community organizations and government resources to help families find the right mental health services.

Whatever steps you decide to take, HandholdMA.org offers a variety of tips, tools, and resources to help you take them with confidence.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Nov. 24, 2020

Thanksgiving Break Message

Dear NPS Families and Staff:

As we enter the Thanksgiving break I am reaching out to ask for your continued support in utilizing the three key ways to keep our schools open after Thanksgiving:

Wear a mask
Abide by 6 feet social distancing guidelines
Wash / sanitize hands frequently

Nothing is more important to each and every one of us than being with family and friends during Thanksgiving. However, the daily increase in Norton and surrounding communities of positive cases of COVID-19 is a significant issue for all of us to consider prior to making final decisions about where to go or who to have over for Thanksgiving. I know this is not the message you want from your school department. I am also struggling with making these decisions.

The most significant decision to make is for those considering leaving MA and traveling to one of the 48 “red states” or internationally. In Massachusetts the Governor has initiated an Executive Order on travel that I have previously shared with you. Please comply with the requirements of this order.

The idea of having to go to full Remote Learning because of individual choices is both uncomfortable for those of us complying with the rules and for those with significant health issues, such as we have with students and staff. Yet, it is your choice.

Please also know that students who are in the Hybrid Model who must quarantine because of the noted Executive Order will have to make up their work upon returning to school. Our Student Handbooks clearly articulate the different scenarios.

We are all making choices daily. If we haven’t gotten COVID-19 we may be just plain lucky. Yet, as a community of educators and learners we must be the role models. I hope you agree.

May you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving break.

Regards,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Nov. 20, 2020

Superintendent's Update

Dear NPS Families

I hope you are well!

As I write this communication we continue to have NO IN-SCHOOL cases of COVID-19. However, we have seen an increase in contact tracing which has caused students and staff to be sent home for up to 14 days. This increase aligns with the issues you are reading about and hearing on the news.

Our constant attention to social distancing, wearing masks and sanitizing/washing hands is working. Yet, the Town of Norton is seeing increases in clusters (mostly families) of positive cases. I am urging you to keep your children home when there is a POTENTIAL for a case. It is best to be safe for all involved.

Starting the week of November 30th we will be hosting on the district website (www.norton.k12.ma.us) a COVID-19 NPS DASHBOARD. This DASHBOARD will be updated regularly and clearly articulate IN-SCHOOL data. Please know that IN-SCHOOL data is different from Town wide data as reported by the MA DPH and the local Board of Health. This information is our attempt to provide you data about the five schools.

Lastly, Thanksgiving Recess begins at the close of school on Wednesday of this upcoming week. We are gettng a lot of information from students about how they are traveling. We urge you to reconsider traveling to any of the "red labeled states" and/or having large social gatherings with families. I know this is problematic for all parties. However, going full remote as a district is also something we do not want to do. This is going to be a long road and the more time we see students in school the better.

Have a great weekend. A final message is coming your way on Monday.

#WeGotThis #SupportEachOther #DoItforUS

Regards,

Dr. Baeta
Supt of Schools

Please excuse any typos etc.

Nov. 17, 2020

Teacher Office Hours Change

Dear NPS Families,

Beginning this week, the office hours hosted by teachers will be changing to opportunities for teachers to design curriculum and collaborate. This change was made based on the lack of utilization of this time by students. However, if you have a concern or your child needs support, please do not hesitate to contact their teacher.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we continue to work to make the hybrid learning model a positive experience for all.

Nov. 3, 2020

NPS Employee Personal Travel Policy

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As part of our support to continue to keep our schools safe for students and staff, especially during the holiday season, I am providing you with this information. The Norton School Committee has implemented a Personal Travel Policy for employees as per the recommendation of the Governor of MA. The contents of this policy is noted below.

The Governor of MA has implemented a Travel Order for ALL visitors entering Massachusetts, including returning residents. The requirements are as follows:

Complete the Massachusetts Travel Form prior to arrival, unless you are visiting from a lower-risk state designated by the Department of Public Health.
Quarantine for 14 days or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72-hours prior to your arrival in Massachusetts.

If your COVID-19 test result has not been received prior to arrival, visitors, and residents must quarantine until they receive a negative test result. Failure to comply may result in a $500 fine per day by the Commonwealth.

Please find more information below, including the list of lower-risk states, exemptions, business guidance and other details.

Lower-risk State: This includes individuals coming from a COVID-19 lower-risk state within the United States, as detailed below.
Transitory travel: This includes people who are passing through Massachusetts and permits travelers to drive through the State or to connect to their airplane, bus or train, or to stop at a highway rest stop, but this exception extends only so long as is reasonably required for the traveler to complete their transit, make any necessary airplane, bus, or train connection, or make use of travel services such as at a highway rest stop.
Persons Commuting for Work or School: People who regularly commute, at least weekly, outside of Massachusetts to a fixed place to attend school or work or any person who regularly commutes, at least weekly into Massachusetts to a fixed place to attend school or work; provided that in either case, this exception applies only to and from the person’s residence and place of work or school. Workers or students who travel to any place that is not their home state for personal or leisure reasons cannot rely on this exemption.
Patients Seeking or Receiving Medical Treatment: Patients who are traveling to Massachusetts to seek or receive specialized medical care from a physician located in the Commonwealth and persons accompanying and providing needed support to the patient.
Military Personnel: Any person who is required to travel to Massachusetts at the order or directive of a Federal or State military authority.
Workers Providing Critical Infrastructure Services: Workers who enter Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions as specified in Version 3.1 of the listing published by the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency are exempt from quarantine while they are commuting to or from or while at work. For the first 14-days after arrival, when the worker is not at work or commuting to work they must quarantine.
Workers who travel to or from Massachusetts for personal or leisure reasons cannot rely on this exemption.

If you do not meet one of the exemptions above, you must complete and submit the online Massachusetts Travel Form.

Thank you for considering this process as part of our overall attempt to keep our schools safe for all parties.

Regards,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Oct. 28, 2020

Social Gatherings

Dear Families, Students and Staff,

I hope you are doing well!

I am reaching out based on information I am receiving about large social gatherings this coming weekend. I know that Halloween is an opportunity to get together. I know this has been a long few months. I know the level of frustration is high. However, I am seeking your support and asking that large social gatherings not take place.

We know from scientific research that large social gatherings and not wearing masks has the potential to create increased rates of positive COVID-19 cases. A cluster of positive cases with students could require the shut down of a classroom, school, or the entire district. Furthermore, it will cause student activities and athletics to be shut down. Most importantly, it may cause one or more people serious health issues.

Halloween parties with large social gatherings could very well require that we close the district and go to full remote learning. We aren't really ready to do so for one reason- we want students and staff to be in school because being in school utilizing safe protocols IS working.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D. | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285-0199

Oct. 21, 2020

Panorama SEL Survey Notice

Dear Families,

As you may already be aware, Norton Public School has made a commitment to focusing on the social and emotional learning (SEL) of all students. We believe that in order for students to be available for learning, they must first have core competencies in place, such as self-management and awareness. We believe that a focus on SEL is even more important in these new and challenging times for our students.

As part of this important work, later this month, students in grades 3-12 will be asked to complete an online questionnaire that encourages them to reflect on their own mindsets and approaches to learning. This survey will focus on five key areas of SEL:

Grit: How well students are able to persevere through setbacks to achieve important long term goals
Growth Mindset: Students perceptions of whether they have the potential to change those factors that are central to their performance in school
Self-Management: How well students manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in certain situations
Social Awareness: How well students consider the perspectives of others and sympathize with them
Self-Efficacy: How much students believe they can succeed in achieving academic outcomes

It is our goal to help better understand our students and provide our staff with information that allows a focused effort on enhancing the integration of SEL supports into all classrooms. The survey will collect information on all students as an aggregate, and at the individual student level. The information that is collected in the questionnaires will be shared with your child’s teacher for instructional purposes and planning.

If you have questions about this process or if you do not want your child to participate in this important survey, please contact your child’s principal. Thank you for your ongoing support of your student(s) and of our schools.

Sincerely,

Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Jennifer O'Neill
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning

Oct. 19, 2020

Virtual Town Halls for Families

Good morning!

There will be two Virtual Town Halls for families this week. The first is for Hybrid Families on Tuesday, October 20 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the second is for Special Education Families on Thursday, October 22 from 6-7 p.m. If you cannot attend they will be recorded and available on the website as well. Please see the login details below:

Hybrid Families Virtual Town Hall
When: Oct 20, 2020 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://zoom.us/j/92724173629?pwd=Nkt6eEJacHlKdm8vRVFuTjhtZXFGZz09
Webinar ID: 927 2417 3629
Passcode: 713898

Special Education Families Virtual Town Hall
When: Oct 22, 2020 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://zoom.us/j/95565674895?pwd=OHc5djdYNU9GU25odmpKbklOamV6Zz09
Webinar ID: 955 6567 4895
Passcode: 773849

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Oct. 13, 2020

2020-2021 Free & Reduced Meal Information

Dear Families,

Children need healthy meals to learn, and Norton Public Schools offers healthy meals every school day. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved the State waiver request to allow the continuation of the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) feeding program through June 2021. The translation of this waiver is that for families there will be no charge for breakfast or lunch during the remainder of school year 2020-2021.

For reference purposes only for this school year, under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), Norton High School Breakfast costs $1.75; lunch costs $3.25. Norton Elementary/Middle School Breakfast cost $1.75; lunch costs $3.00. Reduced price is $.30 for breakfast and $.40 for lunch. Your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced price meals, and if you have not received a notice of this status from the Norton Public Schools this year we urge you to apply through the online application. Qualifying for free or reduced meals is also used by the Norton Public Schools to provide reduced fees on Athletics and Transportation. The Norton Public Schools uses an online application system for families to apply for free and reduced meals. For the first 30 days of the 2020-2021 school year the free and reduced status of families will carry over from where it was at the end of the 2019-2020 school year. If you are new to the Norton Public Schools or did not have a free or reduced meal status at the end of last year please contact me, Matthew Wells, School Business Administrator, as soon as possible at mwells@norton.k12.ma.us.

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Free & Reduced Info 2020-2021

Oct. 7, 2020

Virtual Town Halls for Families

Good afternoon!

There will be two Virtual Town Hall Forums for families in the next two weeks. The first is for Distance Learning Academy Families on Tuesday, October 13 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the second is for Hybrid Families on Tuesday, October 20 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. If you cannot attend they will be recorded and available on the website as well. Please see the login details below:

Digital Learning Academy Families Virtual Town Hall
When: Oct 13, 2020 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://zoom.us/j/93302020877?pwd=czg1bVgxTHFENSttYVVJZENxc3M3Zz09
Webinar ID: 933 0202 0877
Passcode: 892982

Topic: Hybrid Families Virtual Town Hall
When: Oct 20, 2020 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
https://zoom.us/j/92724173629?pwd=Nkt6eEJacHlKdm8vRVFuTjhtZXFGZz09
Webinar ID: 927 2417 3629
Passcode: 713898

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Oct. 6, 2020

Norton Food Service Updates

Dear families,

I want to again thank all of our families for the valuable feedback we have been receiving on our food service program. The process we have in place is new to the Norton Public Schools, and the feedback from the end users is helping us to improve the program.

This week we have changed the meal order form window to Tuesday at 10:00 am to Thursday at 10:00 am, which will be the new days and times moving forward. The time that the order form is open needed to be moved back a day as our food service team did not have sufficient time to produce all the orders in the time frame we had initially established. We will continue to send text message reminders to help families remember to place their orders.

Please also note that Monday October 12, 2020 is a holiday. The Norton Public Schools will be closed on this day and will not be delivering food. We have alternatively set up a meal pick up window for this Friday October 9, 2020 from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm for families to pick up breakfast meal packs and lunch meal packs for the following week. The pick up location is at the back of the high school building near the football field. Please drive around to the back of the school building and follow the directions of the food service workers.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Thanks,

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Oct. 1, 2020

Norton Board of Health Flu Immunizations Reminder

Good morning!

Please see the following information from Doreen Browne, NPS Lead Nurse:

The Norton Board of Health and the Norton Public Schools are partnering again this year to make seasonal flu immunizations available to children. In order to adhere to social distancing rules, the clinics will take place during the school day. Permission forms are attached below. Please fill one out and send it to your building nurse. Make sure to also let them know which cohort your student is in.

If you know your child has difficulty receiving a vaccine, arrangements can be made with Donna Palmer, R.N., Public Health Nurse, for your child to receive the vaccine at another time when a parent can be present.

Clinics will be held one school at a time on Thursday and Friday mornings to accommodate both cohorts beginning the first week of October and continuing until the first week of November, as follows:

Norton High School	October 8 and 9
L.G. Nourse Elementary School	October 15 and 16
J. C. Solmonese Elementary School	October 22 and 23
Norton Middle School	October 29 and 30
H. A. Yelle Elementary School	November 5 and 6

If your child is immunized for seasonal flu elsewhere please submit the documentation to the school nurse.

We are grateful to the school nurses and administration for helping to make our goal of vaccinating all children achievable.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

2020-2021 Flu Insurance Form

Hybrid Learning Survey

Good afternoon!

Please take a few minutes to complete this brief survey regarding the initial Hybrid Learning Experience, specifically the days in which your students are learning from home. Survey responses are requested by Tuesday, October 6.

We invite you to complete a survey for each child that attends NPS in the Hybrid Model: https://forms.gle/MCRF3cajmHa2YfC98

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Sept. 25, 2020

Norton Public Schools Food Delivery Process Monday 09/28/2020

Dear families,

Thank you all for the feedback you provided this past Monday regarding the food delivery process. As this is a process that Norton has never done before it is important for us to hear from you on what worked and what did not.

For this Monday the process will be changing to one delivery route for the day that starts at noon. We will not be sending out the buses at 8:00 am, as this time proved difficult for families to arrive at the bus stop. The noon bus route will deliver both the breakfast meal packs and the lunch meal packs in one delivery. We ask that families begin watching for the bus at the bus stop at noon, however please note that it could take an hour or longer for the bus to reach your stop.

We will be open at the back of the high school from 12:30pm to 3:00pm on Monday as well for parents to drive up and pick up meals. Meals can be picked up at that time if you prefer or if you are unavailable at home during the delivery time.

Thanks,

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Weekly Update

Dear NPS Families

I hope you are well!

This is a very fluid situation and I want to reach out and thank you for your attention to this pandemic by doing your part. It is imperative for us to continue this high level of involvement between the district and families. We are in this together.

This week was a good week in general. We are dealing with communication and technology issues in both models. Please continue to communicate directly with teachers or principals as needed. It is important to get this right.

I will be publishing a Parent Virtual Meeting in early October. Please look out for the dates and times. One meeting will be for Hybrid families and the other for the Parent Choice Digital Learning Program families. More info to come.

Please continue to help us in moving forward.

Stay safe and healthy....social distance, wear your mask and wash your hands.

Best,

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Sept. 21, 2020

Confirmed COVID-19 Case

Norton Public Schools has been notified that a student at the L.G. Nourse Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, September 20.

Per our established protocol, we have temporarily closed off all areas of the building that the individual used in the past several days so that we can thoroughly clean and disinfect the spaces. We are also in contact with the Norton Board of Health and will take the steps necessary to protect the health of our staff and students. There is also a connection between this positive case and information released by Norton Youth Soccer from participation by Norton students on Saturday, September 19.

The individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 will not be allowed to return to school for at least 10 days. Close Contacts have also been notified and will not return to school until they have been tested (as recommend) and quarantined for 14 days. Students and staff involved will be completing Remote Learning until returning on Monday, October 5.

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the regular seasonal influenza and include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Some have reported additional symptoms, such as a new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, muscle or body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache, fatigue, and runny nose when in combination with other symptoms.

Individuals who need medical care should call their medical provider to report their illness prior to seeking care at a clinic, physician’s office, or hospital. Parents of students exhibiting flu-like symptoms or staff exhibiting flu-like symptoms are asked to contact a school nurse, local health authorities or the MA Department of Health.

We are closely monitoring this situation and will provide you with updates as we know more. If you have questions, please contact us through our Let’s Talk platform.

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Sept. 20, 2020

Reminders

Good evening,

Just a couple of reminders:

Remote Mondays

This Monday, September 21 will be our very first remote Monday of the year! As a reminder to all families, students will be learning online with their teachers through a synchronous or live model in the morning. In grades 6-12, this means that students will be following a half-day routine and seeing all of their teachers for shortened periods. On Monday afternoon, students will continue to be engaged in learning through an asynchronous model, which means it will be more independent. All teachers will have given students assignments to be completed during this time. Mondays are not an optional day for students and attendance will be taken.

Attendance

It is important for families to know that attendance is taken daily, regardless if your student is attending school in person or learning from home. It is imperative that students are attending their classroom meetings and completing the work that is assigned on days in which they are learning from home. If your child is sick and not able to attend school on either an in-person or remote day, you must report their absence to the school nurse.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Sept. 17, 2020

SY 2020-2021 Food Service Update, Meal Deliveries

Dear families,

The meal order form for next week was made active at 4:00 pm today, and it will remain open until noon on Friday September 18, 2020. Please go to the Norton Public Schools website to complete the form. For your convenience you can use the following link: https://www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus/norton-meals-program The order form can be found at the bottom of the page. Menus can be located on the Norton Public Schools website by mousing over "Quicklinks" in the top right corner, then clicking on "Menus" in the drop list.

New for next week is the meal delivery on Monday. The current meal delivery bus route is posted on the Transportation page of the Norton Public Schools website, and can be accessed through this link: https://www.norton.k12.ma.us/district/transportation We are continuing to update this route multiple times daily as we identify areas that will need meal stops added. If you review this meal delivery route and you do not see a stop near you, please email both Matt Wells (mwells@norton.k12.ma.us) AND Samantha Stone (sstone@norton.k12.ma.us) with the requested stop. Please be out at your stop at 8:00 am, and again at 11:00 am. We will instruct the buses to stop and deliver a meal.

Please note that the district will be open at the back of the high school from noon to 3:00 pm on Monday for meal pack pickup if you miss the delivery. This is open for all students in the Norton Public Schools, including school choice students.

Families that order food will need to go to the bus stop closest to them to pick up the meals twice on Monday (once for breakfast and a second time for lunch). The buses will load up breakfast meal packs and depart the school at approximately 8:00 am on Monday, then will deliver breakfast meal packs to the bus stops. The buses will then return to the school to load up lunch meal packs and will depart the school at approximately 11:00 am. Please note these times are estimates, and the actual arrival time at stops is unknown at this time as the process has never been attempted in the district previously.

The breakfast meals provided on Monday will be five days of breakfast for each student. The lunch meals provided on Monday will be as follows: One meal will be delivered for Cohort one students (the Monday meal), two meals will be delivered for Cohort two students (the Monday meal and the Tuesday meal), and five meals will be delivered for students that are full remote.

As a reminder, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved the State waiver request to allow the continuation of the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) feeding program through December 2020 or as long as funding is available. The translation of this waiver is that for families there will be no charge for breakfast or lunch during the remainder of calendar year 2020 as long as the SSO program holds out. We are happy that this program extension can benefit all of our Norton Public Schools students.

Please reach out to me with any questions or concerns.

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Sept. 16, 2020

Mask Policy Reminder

Dear Families,

We cannot stress enough the importance of following the safety protocols we have established to help minimize risks for our students, staff, families, and community members. While we recognize that these measures are inconvenient, they are also quite necessary if we are to continue offering hybrid learning.

Overall, our students have done an outstanding job with physical distancing, hygiene, and acting in a responsible manner. However, we all must do our part to be extra vigilant while the COVID-19 virus remains a factor. Please keep in mind our District Mask Policy and note that ONLY cloth face masks are approved to be worn in schools. Face masks with ventilation valves, bandanas, neck gaiters, and scarves are NOT approved. See the visual below for more mask do's and don'ts.

More information on the health and safety protocols may be found here: www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus/resources. We ask that all students carefully follow these procedures during the school day and when riding the bus to and from school.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your building principal. Thank you for your attention to this important communication.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | www.norton.k12.ma.us

Sept. 14, 2020

SY 2020-2021 Food Service Order Form

Dear families,

The Norton Public Schools has created a school meals order form for families to place their breakfast and lunch orders for each week during the upcoming school year. This order form replaces lunch lines and student ordering during the school day. Families will complete one order form per week for each student.

The food service order form for this week is now active, and is available on the Norton Public Schools Meals Program page at the following link: https://www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus/norton-meals-program. This order form will cover the days of September 16, 17, and 18 of 2020. Families will need to complete one order form per student by noon tomorrow, Tuesday September 15, 2020, to allow our food service team time to set up the meal packs.

There will not be a meals delivery to bus stops this week- this service starts next week. If you have elected for full remote this year, or you are a cohort 1 starting Thursday and need meals for the current week, or if you are feeling any food insecurity at all, we are providing a meal pick up at the back of the high school. On Tuesday September 15, 2020 the meal pick up will be operating from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, and you will be able to pick up the full week's worth of meals- please let the food service employees at the site know you need multiple days meals. On Wednesday September 16, 2020 the meal pick up changes hours to 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the same location.

Food delivery to bus stops will begin on Monday September 21, 2020. The order form for next week will be made available at 4:00 pm on Thursday September 17, 2020 with a completion due date and time of noon on Friday September 18, 2020.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Digital Learning Academy Overview

Good evening,

Thank you to all our families that have been so patient and understanding as we have attempted to finalize the details of our remote learning platform over these last few weeks. Our parent choice remote model, also know as the Digital Learning Academy (DLA) has been designed to support students and families that have chosen to learn from home this year with a high quality curriculum program while also providing support from our NPS educators.

We know that you have many questions about our Digital Learning Academy and have scheduled a parent information session for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15 at 6:00 p.m. The details on how to join our meeting are below. In the meantime, please take a few minutes to review this overview that we have put together for you. This document shares the staff that are involved in the DLA, resources for families on our two online curriculum platforms, information on logging in, and sample schedules. Tomorrow, your child will receive communication from our DLA staff outlining their schedule for the first day on Wednesday and other items of importance.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DHh68w-pocdCNqhdY5xrUSE4i_iD97OOiLnPtODA9oA/edit?usp=sharing

Thank you again for your patience as we navigate these new ways of teaching and learning. We look forward to partnering with you this year.

Jennifer O'Neill Martin Geoghegan
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning DLA Principal (PreK-12)

Invitation to Digital Learning Academy PreK-12 Q&A
Tuesday, September 15th at 6 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/95273739307?pwd=Z2N2ZEhjc3Y0T3k5bFl1cGpZaGI5QT09
Webinar ID: 952 7373 9307
Passcode: 945574

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Sept. 11, 2020

Norton Board of Health Flu Immunizations

Good morning!

Please see the following information from Doreen Browne, NPS Lead Nurse:

The Norton Board of Health and the Norton Public Schools are partnering again this year to make seasonal flu immunizations available to children. In order to adhere to social distancing rules, the clinics will take place during the school day. Permission forms will be made available prior to the clinics.

Clinics will be held one school at a time on Thursday and Friday mornings to accommodate both cohorts beginning the first week of October and continuing until the first week of November, as follows:

Norton High School	October 8 and 9
L.G. Nourse Elementary School	October 15 and 16
J. C. Solmonese Elementary School	October 22 and 23
Norton Middle School	October 29 and 30
H. A. Yelle Elementary School	November 5 and 6

If your child is immunized for seasonal flu elsewhere please submit the documentation to the school nurse.

We are grateful to the school nurses and administration for helping to make our goal of vaccinating all children achievable.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199
www.norton.k12.ma.us

SY 2020-2021 School Lunch and Breakfast Process

Dear families,

This communication is being sent to provide families with the general process the Norton Public Schools will be using to serve meals this school year safely and with a focus on social distancing. The attached Food Service Process is subject to change as conditions warrant, but serves as a start point for how we plan to feed students this year.

NPS has provided in previous emails that the district will be starting the year with free breakfast and free lunch for all students. The USDA has approved a waiver request from the State to allow for free meals through the end of December 2020 or as long as the funding lasts. We are pleased that this benefit is available to all students in the district, and encourage students to participate. The district will be opening up the Free and Reduced application process next week as this process does feed into other programs, and we will provide more information on this in another communication.

We will be sending follow up communications next week with additional food service information. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me directly through the email below.

Thanks,

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Sept. 10, 2020

Return to School Virtual Town Hall Follow-up

Good afternoon,

Below please find follow-up information from last night’s Return to School Town Hall. If you still have specific questions please reach out to your building principal or utilize our Let’s Talk communication platform.

Virtual Open Houses

All School Virtual Open Houses will be recorded and available on the website the next day. All recorded Virtual Parent meetings, presentations, and other resources can be found here: www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus/resources

Thursday, Sept. 10

Little Lancers Open House | 5:00-5:45 p.m.
J.C. Solmonese Open House | 5:45-6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/98779132807?pwd=UUJVa1c0ckE4djdXb1dwL3EzTHhNdz09
Webinar ID: 987 7913 2807
Passcode: 560537

Norton High School Open House | 7:00 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/91387985089?pwd=RCt6cFJMVi9kYk0wWmt1QVlPdFo2dz09
Webinar ID: 913 8798 5089
Passcode: 768927

Friday, Sept. 11

L.G. Nourse Open House | 5:00 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/96994264580?pwd=ZkMzbC9nMWgycXAyeDR6R21pR09iZz09
Webinar ID: 969 9426 4580
Passcode: 512871

Norton Middle School Open House | 6:00 - 6:45 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/98994286842?pwd=c01QQW9jRnJ3TkVKK0xkbEZsZjk3Zz09
Webinar ID: 989 9428 6842
Passcode: 546544

Monday, Sept. 14

Henri A. Yelle Open House | 5 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/91795272573?pwd=ZU9tSlhLRmFmV2U3aEM4c1N0UVFPZz09
Webinar ID: 917 9527 2573
Passcode: 510345

Tech Q&A Session | 6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/93702355788?pwd=ZmMxZVNzUlh2ZnhyZGNqMXBaa2hNZz09
Webinar ID: 937 0235 5788
Passcode: 309980

Tuesday, Sept. 15

Remote Learning Academy PreK-12 Q&A | 6 p.m.
(This is only for students who are participating in the Parent Choice Remote Learning cohort)
https://zoom.us/j/95273739307?pwd=Z2N2ZEhjc3Y0T3k5bFl1cGpZaGI5QT09
Webinar ID: 952 7373 9307
Passcode: 945574

Chromebook Distribution

Please note that the NMS and NHS Chromebook pick-up has changed. The Technology Department will be available for families to pick-up devices on the following dates:

NMS - Monday, September 14 (incoming 6th graders and new students)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.
NHS - Tuesday, September 15 (incoming 9th graders and new students)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.

Distribution will be a drive through pick-up at the front of each school. If you are unable to attend the dates scheduled for your child's school, devices will be handed out in classrooms on the first face-to-face day your child attends school.

Food Service

Separate Food Service communications will be sent out in the coming days that will highlight the process and provide details.

To check the remaining funds of your MySchoolsBucks account please visit: www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/getmain.action?clientKey=&requestAction=home

Special Education

Over the next few weeks each special education liaison will be contacting each of the families on their caseload to discuss the student’s service delivery grid, areas of concern and individual schedule. If you have not heard from anyone regarding your student’s special education plan please email Coordinator of Special Education K-12 Cassandra Russo at crusso@norton.k12.ma.us.

Will there be a police detail at NHS?

No, but we are working to address the concerns regarding the Route 123 sewer project.

Again, if you still have specific questions please reach out to your building principal or utilize our Let’s Talk communication platform.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

Sept. 8, 2020

Virtual Return to School/Open House Q&As

Good morning!

Please see the login details below for upcoming Virtual Return to School and School Open House Q&As:

Wednesday, Sept. 9

Return to School Town Hall | 6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/92118946796?pwd=ZzROeFoycjhQdk5lbXQ4anh3TTA2QT09
Webinar ID: 921 1894 6796
Passcode: 372004

Thursday, Sept. 10

Little Lancers Open House | 5:00-5:45 p.m.
J.C. Solmonese Open House | 5:45-6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/98779132807?pwd=UUJVa1c0ckE4djdXb1dwL3EzTHhNdz09
Webinar ID: 987 7913 2807
Passcode: 560537

Norton High School Open House | 7:00 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/91387985089?pwd=RCt6cFJMVi9kYk0wWmt1QVlPdFo2dz09
Webinar ID: 913 8798 5089
Passcode: 768927

Friday, Sept. 11

L.G. Nourse Open House | 5:00 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/96994264580?pwd=ZkMzbC9nMWgycXAyeDR6R21pR09iZz09
Webinar ID: 969 9426 4580
Passcode: 512871

Norton Middle School Open House | 6:00 - 6:45 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/98994286842?pwd=c01QQW9jRnJ3TkVKK0xkbEZsZjk3Zz09
Webinar ID: 989 9428 6842
Passcode: 546544

Monday, Sept. 14

Henri A. Yelle Open House | 5 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/91795272573?pwd=ZU9tSlhLRmFmV2U3aEM4c1N0UVFPZz09
Webinar ID: 917 9527 2573
Passcode: 510345

Tech Q&A Session | 6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/93702355788?pwd=ZmMxZVNzUlh2ZnhyZGNqMXBaa2hNZz09
Webinar ID: 937 0235 5788
Passcode: 309980

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

SY 2020-2021 School Bus Transportation Information

Dear Families,

We have some updates to provide families on school bus transportation for the upcoming school year.

The District is able to accommodate all students that have registered for transportation at this time. School year 2020-2021 bus passes will start mailing out Wednesday September 9, 2020 and should be arriving to families toward the end of this week and into the weekend. The school year 2020-2021 bus pass is required to be displayed by the student in order to ride the bus. If you do not receive a bus pass by Monday September 14, 2020 and you believe you should have received one, please contact the district as soon as possible and we will issue a paper pass to be used on the first day.

The bus fee has been reduced this year from $350 per student to $133 per student. This reduction is proportionate to the time students will actually be transported this year on the bus. We ask that this fee be paid by October 15, 2020. The district is willing to set up payment plans for families if needed. Please reach out to Matt Wells through the email address at the end of this communication if you would like to find out about a payment plan.

The bus routes for the year are still being developed based on the cohort lists that were finalized late last week. Once the routes are complete we will send a follow-up communication to families with that information. We are anticipating receiving the routes this Friday September 11, 2020.

For more information on the changes to transportation for this school year, please see the Norton Public Schools Return To School Planning Overview presentation (the transportation section starts on slide number 31). The presentation can be accessed by clicking the August 3, 2020 tab in the middle of the Coronavirus Updates webpage on the NPS website; the presentation will open up at the bottom of the webpage. The page can be accessed with the following link https://www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus

Please feel free to contact me directly with any questions or concerns.

Thank you,

Matthew Wells | School Business Administrator
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
mwells@norton.k12.ma.us

Sept. 3, 2020

Return to School Update

Dear Families,

Some updates for your information.

Return to School Q&A:

Please join me for a Return to School Virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, September 9 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. regarding our Return to School. https://zoom.us/j/92118946796?pwd=ZzROeFoycjhQdk5lbXQ4anh3TTA2QT09
Or Telephone: US: +1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 921 1894 6796
Passcode: 372004

Hybrid Model:

The school year for our faculty and staff that started on Monday, August 31 went very well. Thank you to the Norton Teachers Association for their positive vote to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding that provides for the Hybrid Model. The Model will provide for Remote Learning on Mondays for Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 together as a class and then T/Th or W/F on campus. Students will be provided specific and detailed video for their Remote Days in the Hybrid Model. This is REQUIRED student work for Monday afternoons and on Remote Days. As a reminder we start on September 16 with Cohort 2 on campus and Cohort 1 Remote.

Remote Parent Choice:

The Remote Parent Choice schedule is being finalized and will look something like the Hybrid Model except with the utilization of online portals and staff support. I am in the process of hiring licensed educators. We will also be utilizing staff that is on a leave of absence. Specific information will be forwarded at the end of next week.

Mr. Martin Geoghegan, Principal of the Yelle Elementary School has graciously agreed to be the Parent Choice Remote Learning Administrator PreK-12.

Special Education:

Over the next few weeks each special education liaison will be contacting each of the families on their caseload to discuss the student’s service delivery grid, areas of concern and individual schedule.
DESE Back to School Letter for Families of Children with Disabilities

Mask Policy:

Please click here to view our Mask Policy approved by the Norton School Committee.

Facilities:

We have published recent air quality reports and air exchange reports from our third party reference on our HVAC systems. They can be found on our Facilities and Grounds page under the Health & Safety tab.

Transportation:

The School Committee voted to reduce the SY 2020-2021 transportation fee from $350 per student to $133 per student in light of the limited amount of days each student would actually be riding the bus. We have opened the payment portal on the Transportation page of the Norton Public Schools website for payment, and ask that all families submit payment no later than October 15, 2020. The district is willing to discuss payment plans with any family in need.

We are currently reconciling the cohort lists with our bus registrations and have started the routing process for each cohort. At this time we will be accommodating all students that have registered to ride the bus in spite of the reduced capacity requirements. Students will be assigned a seat on the bus, and bus passes will be printed and mailed to students beginning early the week of Labor Day weekend.

Food Service:

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved the State waiver request to allow the continuation of the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) feeding program through December 2020 for as long as funding is available. The expected translation of this waiver is that for families there will be no charge for breakfast or lunch during the remainder of calendar year 2020 (through the end of December 2020) as long as the SSO program holds out. We are happy that this program extension can benefit all of our Norton Public Schools students, and we will provide further information on this as it becomes available. We are also pleased to share that the School Committee has voted to keep meal prices this year the same as last year for when the SSO program does end.

School meals will run differently this year in compliance with guidelines issued by the State. The District will communicate food service in follow up emails. Please note that the protocols may change as conditions warrant.

Technology:

GREAT NEWS! The chromebooks for sixth grade and ninth grade students arrived today! To be able to configure and distribute these new devices, we will need to postpone the NMS and NHS device pick-up scheduled for next week. We will now be handing out 6th grade devices on Monday, September 14 from 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m. and 9th grade devices on Tuesday, September 15 from 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.

iPads and chromebooks were distributed to LGN students on Wednesday, September 2 and to JCS students on Thursday, September 3. If you were unable to pick up your child’s device, they will be distributed on your child’s first day of face-to-face classes. If your child is participating in parent choice remote learning, contact your child’s school or the technology department to make arrangements for pick up.

Parents and students may now submit their own technology support requests. Students can use their Norton Google login at https://norton.incidentiq.com/login and parents can visit https://norton.incidentiq.com/guest/RHXJGD3V/parent-submission-form to register and submit on their child’s behalf. Tech support requests can include a password reset, troubleshooting a device or application, repair request, or anything needed to support your child’s use of the school issued device.

On Monday, September, 14 from 6:30-7:30, the Technology Department will be hosting a Tech Q&A session for parents/guardians. This session is to help answer questions about the district provided technology, logging into devices, basic troubleshooting, ideas to help improve internet signals, and more. If you have specific questions you want answered, please submit via this form https://forms.gle/VmBZztBG8d2mEM2f7 . Please join us on 9/14 at: https://zoom.us/j/93702355788?pwd=ZmMxZVNzUlh2ZnhyZGNqMXBaa2hNZz09
Webinar ID: 937 0235 5788
Passcode: 309980

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. Have a great Labor Day weekend.

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Aug. 28, 2020

Return to School Update

Dear NPS Families:

I hope you are well. This communication is to provide you with some information about a few key topics.

First Week of School

The first day of school for students in PreK-12 is Wednesday, September 16. The schedule is as follows:

Date	IN SCHOOL	LEARNING FROM HOME
Wednesday, September 16	Cohort 2	Cohort 1
Thursday, September 17	Cohort 1	Cohort 2
Friday, September 18	Cohort 2	Cohort 1

Students attending as part of a specialized program, otherwise referred to as cohort 3, will attend school all days that week.

Cohorts & Teacher Placements

Cohort information has been mailed and by now you should have them. We are working on issues that have been provided to us; however, please note that specific requests may not happen. Our plan is to respond no later than next week.

I also want you to know that actual teacher/classroom schedules will not be provided at this time. This is such a fluid situation and it requires that we work to address equity as much as possible. I anticipate releasing schedules no later than Friday, September 11.

Transportation

Bus transportation information is being completed in the coming days based on requests. At the Thursday, August 27 Norton School Committee Meeting the SC voted 5-0 to reduce transportation costs to $133 per student and NHS Student Parking to $0.00 for this year. All requirements for student parking are still in play.

Athletics and Activities

At this time the MIAA has made some significant changes to the athletic schedule. This will be shared with Norton High School student-athletes in the coming days. Furthermore, all Norton Middle School athletics for the Fall have been cancelled and a later date will be considered by the League. Lastly, all after school activities PreK-12 are postponed until further notice. I anticipate reviewing after school activities later in September or early October.

Masks

Masks must be worn by all adults and students PreK-12+ except as medically documented. Medical documentation must be provided to the school nurse prior to September 16. Also, face coverings are NOT approved. Lastly, the new policy as voted by the Norton School Committee will be emailed in the coming days.

Technology

Student Device Pick Up

All students in grades PK-12 will have 1:1 devices for the upcoming school year. Students in grades 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12 have chromebooks from last year and will not receive a new device. Students in grade PK, K, and 1 will receive an iPad, case, and charger. Students in grades 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9 will be issued a chromebook and charger. A loan of technology agreement form must be signed prior to your child receiving a device. These will be available on the day of device pick-up or you can read and acknowledge by signing an electronic version by visiting this form. https://forms.gle/PpkbnqZMYLh3ipN17

The technology department will be available for families to pick-up devices on the following dates. Distribution will be a drive through pick-up at the front of each school. If you are unable to attend the dates scheduled for your child's school, devices will be handed out in classrooms on the first face-to-face day your child attends school.

LGN - Wednesday, September 2 (all students, K-3)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.
JCS - Thursday, September 3 (all students, PK-3)
9 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 pm
HAY - Tuesday, September 8 (all 4th and 5th graders)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.
NMS - Monday, September 14 (incoming 6th graders and new students)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.
NHS - Tuesday, September 15 (incoming 9th graders and new students)
9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.

If your child was in the extended school year program (ESY), they can continue to use the chromebook issued to them. If your child received an iPad mini for ESY, please plan to exchange that for a new device.

Families who noted they are in need of internet assistance will be contacted directly. If you have any questions, please email Karen Winsper at kwinsper@norton.k12.ma.us.

Internet Essentials Comcast Program - Important Changes!

Comcast recently announced changes to it’s Internet Essentials program that offers households low-cost, broadband Internet service for $9.95/month, the option to purchase a heavily subsidized computer, and multiple options for digital literacy training.

Comcast is giving all Internet Essentials customers its innovative xFi platform, which enables parents to control and manage their children’s WiFi connected devices. The initiative builds on Comcast’s recent announcement that it will continue to offer, through the end of 2020, all new Internet Essentials customers two months of free Internet service and it will forgive back debt due so more families can apply. This was a stumbling block for many families that has now been removed.

To learn more about the program, visit https://www.internetessentials.com/

Our next update from my office will be next week. Have a wonderful weekend.

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Aug. 24, 2020

NPS Special Education FAQ

Good afternoon,

Please see the attached letter from the Office of Pupil Personnel Services regarding Norton Public Schools Special Education FAQs.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 21, 2020

Return to School Update

Dear NPS Families,

We continue to work daily on student schedules, transportation, specialized services, and teaching and learning. We will communicate with families over the next week the cohort model for Hybrid Teaching and Learning so that you can begin finalizing your fall schedules. It is important to note that we are attempting to manage all requests to the best of our ability; however, not all requests will be met.

I also wanted to communicate about health and safety topics that have been in the news and social media. Attention to the health and safety of the children and staff of NPS has always been and continues to be my number one responsibility. Yet, there is a clear undermining within the public about the safety and health of our public buildings. NPS has five buildings with four of the five having new windows (JCS, HAY, LGN and NHS), and all five schools having appropriate HVAC systems that have been under the review, inspection, and work of Mechanical Air Controls, the District's specialized partner. Mechanical Air Controls has routinely serviced and maintained the HVAC Units on both a Protective Maintenance basis and a Corrective Maintenance basis during my tenure. This includes the exhaust fans, roof top units, air handler units, gas heaters, and cabinet unit heaters. All of this was completed in the summer of 2020 as per routine. The filters utilized within our univents are per recommendation and industry standards for the different univents within our schools.

Air quality tests are being completed in two cycles by Environmental Remediation Consultants. This information will be published once it is received. Air exchange calculations are being completed this coming week by Mechanical Air Controls. We will also publish these results.

The collective work of our highly trained custodial professionals and consultants under the direction of Wade Lizotte, Director of Facilities, the Norton School Committee, and my office will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our students and our staff. Nothing is more important during a time of crisis like we are dealing with.

The Offices for Teaching and Learning, Instructional Technology, and Business Services are working daily to advance a constantly fluid situation. In communication with our local Board of Health, we are reviewing data and continuously looking for any information that will require further changes.

Early next week we will publish and provide directly to you our "Reopening Facilities and Operations Plan" and "Responses to COVID-19 Scenarios Plan.” All information mentioned and other resources regarding COVID-19 and Returning to School can always be found on our website: www.norton.k12.ma.us/families/coronavirus.

I also want to communicate with you about the irresponsibility of some adults via social media about our Hybrid and Remote Models. We are currently, under Chapter 150E, bargaining in good faith with the Norton Teachers Association. Both parties are looking at various approaches by grade level, needs of student populations, and backfilling leaves of absence as per the Family Medical Leave Act and the American with Disabilities Act. We are looking at utilizing teachers on leaves to support and provide direct services to students via the hybrid remote days and the parent choice remote. Until you hear from me directly please consider not reading the false narratives. These individuals are not in the room and I can assure you that the dialogue about what is good for students is continuing. When we settle the final agreement I will share with you how we will attempt to meet the demands of our current situation.

I know that there are many opinions, but the Town of Norton continues to be a low incident COVID-19 community for numerous reasons. Under the direction of the Norton Board of Health, we have utilized local and state professionals to prioritize our needs, listened to the experts, reviewed the science, and most importantly, continue to review the data daily, weekly, bi-weekly and monthly. I can't guarantee you anything, but what I can say is that I am requiring everything to be considered and appropriately reviewed and implemented to the best of our ability.

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

Aug. 19, 2020

Norton SEPAC Q&A with Director of Pupil Personnel Services

Good morning,

Join the Norton SEPAC Tuesday, August 25 at 6 p.m. for a Q&A session for parents and caregivers of children receiving special education services with Vincent Cerce, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, and Cassandra Russo, Coordinator of Special Education K-12.

Please see below for the login info:

https://zoom.us/j/97033491949?pwd=Tk5QRzJkUG5La1JJYitNcVJHWlg2UT09
Passcode: 851334
US: +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 970 3349 1949

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 14, 2020

NPS Reopening of School Report

Dear families:

The Norton Public Schools remains dedicated to providing students with the best possible learning experience during these challenging and uncertain times. Please click here to view our NPS Reopening of School Report for the 2020-2021 school year. Thank you to all of the teachers, staff, parents, students, and community members that served on committees. While we are proud of the work that has gone into the process thus far, we understand that there are still decisions that need to be made and additional guidance will follow.

Reminder that the Back to School survey will remain open through the end of today, Friday, August 14, and must be completed for every student. Data from this survey will be used to form cohorts, inform decisions about transportation and help us understand technology needs. If you are unable to locate the survey, please contact Pam Anderson, pamelaanderson@norton.k12.ma.us.

If you have specific concerns about your child, please reach out to your building principal or use the Let's Talk feature on our district website.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 11, 2020

Back to School Survey Information

Dear families:

Thank you to everyone who has already submitted responses to our Back to School Survey. Each family should have received a survey asking you to indicate whether you intend to send your child to school in the hybrid model or participate in a fully remote program. The survey emails will come from our vendor administering the survey, Panorama Education, with the email address: support+norton@panoramaed.com. Families with multiple children will see a unique survey for each child after clicking on the emailed link. All surveys were sent to the primary email contact for each student. It is possible that within a family, students were listed with different primary email addresses based on how families complete the annual student emergency contact form each fall. If you have not received the survey, please do the following:

Check all known email addresses for your family, including both parents/guardians and work/personal emails.
Check your spam/junk folders. The email will not be from NPS, but instead from Panorama Education, our survey partner. The email address will be: support+norton@panoramaed.com
Check your email filters to be sure that you are not blocking spam or third party emails. Consider adding the email above to your contact list.
If you are unable to locate the survey, please contact Pam Anderson, pamelaanderson@norton.k12.ma.us.

The survey will remain open through Friday, August 14 and must be completed for every student. Data from this survey will be used to form cohorts, inform decisions about transportation and help us understand technology needs.

If you have specific concerns about your child, please reach out to your building principal or use the Let's Talk feature on our district website.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 10, 2020

Virtual Parent Q&A with Dr. Baeta

Good afternoon!

There will be a virtual Q&A for families with the Superintendent regarding the reopening of school. For a list of questions that have already been answered, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions document.

All families are invited to attend this Wednesday, August 12 at 11 a.m. or 6 p.m. Please find the login information below:

Virtual Q&A for Families August 12 at 11 a.m.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://zoom.us/j/92596554326?pwd=OHpIamdKKzFKRXBPT1djU2FER1VSZz09
Passcode: 125001
Or Telephone:
Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782
Webinar ID: 925 9655 4326
Passcode: 125001

Virtual Q&A for Families August 12 at 6 p.m.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://zoom.us/j/93210348145?pwd=dEIwWm5NK0piT2RaYm5adCt6N0Qwdz09
Passcode: 797083
Or Telephone:
Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 932 1034 8145
Passcode: 797083

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 7, 2020

Hybrid Learning Survey- MANDATORY

Dear families:

Last night, the Norton School Committee voted to return to school in a hybrid model, with the first day of school for students being Wednesday, September 16. In a hybrid model, students would alternate between in-person and remote learning. Each cohort would consist of approximately 50% of our student population. More information on the hybrid learning model, including draft schedules and frequently asked questions can be found here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TK3mEU7rkOkB8wEn2x2c5HhT0YRchO7MoNsSVcQTAIs/edit?usp=sharing

Later today, each family will receive a survey which will ask you to indicate whether you intend to send your child to school in this hybrid model or participate in a fully remote program. Families with multiple children will receive a separate email with a unique link for each child. Please follow the link included in the email to indicate your responses for that specific child and do not combine responses for multiple children using one link. The survey emails will come from our vendor administering the survey, Panorama Education, with the email address: support+norton@panoramaed.com.

The survey will remain open through Friday, August 14 and must be completed for every student. Data from this survey will be used to form cohorts, inform decisions about transportation and help us understand technology needs.

If you have specific concerns about your child, please reach out to your building principal or use the Let's Talk feature on our district website.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 5, 2020

NPS Return to School FAQ Document

Good afternoon,

Thanks to all of you that were able to join us for the Norton School Committee meeting last evening. During the meeting, the NPS administrative team shared plans for returning to school, a hybrid model, and full remote learning. As a result of this presentation, many questions have come forward from the community about these plans and what each will mean to your families as we prepare for the fall.

We have created a document of Frequently Asked Questions for your review. This will be a living document and updated daily as new questions or issues arise. Please take some time to review these initial questions. If you have other questions that you would like answered, please use the form linked here to submit them. Please be aware that all questions must have a name and email address connected to them- anonymous questions will not be answered.

We also welcome you to join us at tonight's School Committee meeting, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The link for joining us via zoom is below:

You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Aug 5, 2020 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Topic: NPS School Committee Meeting 8.5.2020

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://zoom.us/j/92383567799?pwd=dmx5NWxsd3VRZjBsZktOMWgvQ1MvQT09
Passcode: 848800
Or Telephone: Dial: +1 312 626 6799

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | www.norton.k12.ma.us

Aug. 3, 2020

NPS Return to School Overview Presentation

Good afternoon!

Attached below please find the agenda for tomorrow night's School Committee meeting. Please click here for the Return to School Overview being presented tomorrow as well.

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199 | www.norton.k12.ma.us

AUGUST 4, 2020 NORTON SCHOOL COMMITTEE AGENDA

July, 30 2020

Bus Payments

Good afternoon,

Please be advised that we will be postponing any bus payments until after the School Committee has voted and agreed on a model for teaching and learning for the fall. Please do not make any payments until further notice. Please reach out to Samantha Stone, sstone@norton.k12.ma.us, 508-285-0100 ext 3 opt 2 with any questions.

Thank you,

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

July 15, 2020

Virtual Town Hall Forum for Families

Good afternoon!

There will be a virtual Town Hall forum for families to discuss the three models of learning plans for the fall: In-person Learning with new safety requirements, Hybrid Learning, and Remote Learning. Click here to view the Reopening of School Task Force.

All families are invited to attend on either Wednesday, July 22 or Thursday, July 30 at 6:30 p.m. Please find the login information below:

Virtual Town Hall for Families July 22 at 6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/94204548537?pwd=Mys4NlJ1RExHdVB1Q0RKWUVrY2RFdz09
Meeting ID: 942 0454 8537
Password: 2bYz5f
Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US
Meeting ID: 942 0454 8537
Password: 487562

Virtual Town Hall for Families July 30 at 6:30 p.m.
https://zoom.us/j/92342476330?pwd=dmVYZ2UzM1pMOGRpVWM5THNJa3pzQT09
Passcode: 762117

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

July 13, 2020

Survey to Families Regarding Fall 2020

Good afternoon,

Each School District has been tasked by the Commissioner of Education to plan for a return to school this fall in three possible scenarios: 1) in person learning; 2) a hybrid model where cohorts of students are assigned specific days to attend in person while learning remotely on the other days; or 3) a remote model in which students are learning from home. Each of these models will need to be fully developed and is currently under review by a task force that consists of teachers, administrators, and parents. As educators, we know that the emergency teaching that took place during remote learning this year will not be sufficient and it is our goal to create rigorous and comprehensive plans for all three scenarios that will support the needs of all learners.

As we prepare for the fall, we are reaching out to our families to get a sense of your perspective on returning to school, models of learning, and transportation. This information is essential to helping us make plans for returning to school, while making sure that we are keeping the needs of our students and families in mind.

Please take a few moments to complete this brief survey for your family. All responses are due by Monday, July 20 at 11:59 p.m.

https://forms.gle/UyavrioG1gzYXoJa9

Norton Public Schools Central Office
64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100 | Fax: (508) 285- 0199

June 25, 2020

DESE Initial Fall School Reopening Guidance

Dear NPS Community:

The announcement later today by Governor Baker is the first step in looking carefully at what options and/or requirements will be in place for the 2020-2021 school year. The approach announced today is the “initial” document and many changes could be made in the coming weeks.

There is much to consider, and today’s announcement is the beginning of a very long summer. Utilizing our internal process we have a Reopening Task Force consisting of parents, teachers, students, school committee, administrators, and many others. We will also announce the three working committees that will address the three models we must prepare for September. Lastly, we have our School Nurses and local Board of Health who will make final recommendations on health and safety issues.

Our priority will be student and staff safety, using local data via the Norton Board of Health, communication and input from families, and collaboration with our local unions. The work begins today and it will take most of the summer to complete. My office will communicate updates via email regularly.

Please see attached the full document as released.

Further announcements to families and staff will be forthcoming the week of July 6th.

Happy 4th of July to all.

Joseph F. Baeta | Superintendent of Schools
Norton Public Schools | 64 West Main Street | Norton, MA 02766
Office: (508) 285-0100

DESE Initial Fall Reopening Guidance