Hello North Hampton Parents, guardians and community,
I'm pleased to report that we’ve had a positive and energetic start to the school year. Thankfully, the “heat wave” was temporary, but our students and staff persevered. As a community, we banded together and problem-solved to make the most of it and beat the heat.
Curriculum Night- The date for Curriculum Night has been set for Thursday, October 11th. This is a change, from what was sent previously. The format will consist of teachers presenting twice, at 5pm and 6:15. Unified Arts teachers will present in between sessions, from 5:45-6:15. The administration will make a large group presentation for each session, first at 4:45 and again at 7pm. More information and a schedule flyer will be sent home in the coming weeks.
Our 6th grade students spent last week at Merrowvista (American Youth Foundation) Camp and had an immersive environmental education, team and community-building learning experience. The kids were outstanding and had a great time!
Earlier this month, the 8th grade went to the fish house of Mr. Rob Southworth, local historian, who welcomed our students and provided a rich history of the fishing industry in North Hampton and throughout the region. Our students were also given free admission to Fuller Gardens, to which they walked via the Kingshighway. They learned about the gardens and their place in our local history.
I hope you've enjoyed our new website, which we're very proud of. Again, I want to thank School Board Vice Chair Cindy Burke for coordinating this transition. We'll work hard to keep the website user friendly and informative. If you have feedback, ideas or suggestions, please don't hesitate, as they are always welcome.
Each of our middle school students has been issued a Macbook Air that will provide a platform for creativity, collaboration and innovation beyond walls and barriers for the time they are students at NHS. Responsible and resourceful use of technology will be appropriately ingrained as part of the development of work study habits and habits of mind for our middle school learners. Dr. Lupini, our new Superintendent, and I were with the 6th grade and their teachers when the 6th graders were issued their laptops during the second week of school. They were very enthusiastic! I know this investment in our 21st century learners will pay great dividends.
Also, as previously mentioned, we've implemented the Open Circle social and emotional learning program in grades K-5. A number of our teachers have begun to incorporate Open Circle lessons and our students are doing a great job with it. Open Circle is helping NHS build a community where students feel safe, cared for, and highly engaged in learning. You may find more information about Open Circle on their website at: www.open-circle.org.
Thank you parents and guardians for helping us to make the home-school/school-home partnership strong and supportive. Thank you, as well to the families and community for your essential work with the school and our teachers. It is an essential part of what makes NHS a special place for kids to learn and grow.
With appreciation and gratitude,
Erik M. Anderson
Principal