NEW Plymouth North High SchoolPlymouth’s own Model High School

Ahead of the Energy Conservation Curve

Our AWARD-WINNING Educational Television Program

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Julia Colby

Are You a Graduate of Plymouth Public Schools?

1313

A P U B L I C A T I O N B Y P L Y M O U T H P U B L I C S C H O O L S

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 32

Publication Staff

Dr. Gary Maestas Chief Program Director

Nicole ManfrediSenior Editor

Julie SchultzAssociate Editor, Writer

Nancy DargieExecutive Director

Jim FedericoLogo and Graphic Design

Publication Design and Production

Standard ModernBrockton, MA Printing

Publication Information

Plymouth Voyager is a semi-annual periodical intended primarily for current faculty, students and community members of Plymouth, MA, as well as alumni. It is also available for anyone interested in the curriculum, instruction, initiatives and leadership of the Plymouth Public Schools. Views expressed in the Voyager publication are not necessarily the official positions of the PPS district.

CONTENTS

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3

1 Superintendent’s Message

3 Student Spotlight Student Writer Casey Campbell:

Plymouth North Enters the Last Leg of the Race to the New School

Recognition of Student Leadership and Compassion Outside of School Walls

5 Faculty Spotlight Julia Colby: Finding Treasure

Melissa Fromm: Grade 2 Teacher at Indian Brook Elementary

7 Curriculum PPS Award-winning

Educational Television Program

10 News & Noteworthy The Plymouth Public School District is

a Leader in Energy Conservation

12 Community Plymouth South High School: Not Forgotten!

DreamRide: A Man and His Dream

16 Alumni Spotlight Michael Maccaferri

Plymouth Public Schools Alumni Association

1S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3

IF you woulD lIke to be ADDeD to the VoyAGer MAIlING lISt

you may do so by registering:

www.plymouthalumni.net

Authorization is required for reproduction of any copy or photographs. Please submit your request in writing to:

Plymouth Public Schools 253 South Meadow Road Plymouth, MA 02360

1

SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE

Dr. Gary MaestasSuperintendent of Plymouth Public Schools

SPONSORS

Members of the Plymouth School Community,

I am proud to introduce the inaugural edition of Plymouth

Voyager – a publication of the Plymouth Public Schools. Voyager

is intended to be a bi-annual periodical focused on offering a

glimpse into the Plymouth Schools. It features highlights and

stories about the people and programs that make the Plymouth

Public Schools a distinctive, preK-12 educational institution.

In this ever-changing educational environment, we must continually

strive for improvement. The Voyager will archive benchmarks that

highlight the improvements experienced by our students and faculty

within our schools. In addition to recording our achievements, a primary

goal is to develop the Voyager into an instrument that encourages

a connection with the alumni of our school system. My intent is to

improve on our past capability of staying in touch with our graduates,

and to bring them closer to the educational system that facilitated

their educational beginnings. Lastly, I envision the Voyager as a vehicle

to inform the general public of the value of their investment in our

school system. I look forward to sharing in the months to come.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Maestas, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

The Voyager is sponsored in part by the following:

the kanter kallman Foundation

TIME TO STEP ON IT!Join the drive to get a commemorative license plate for Plymouth 400™ and show your pride. Our deadline is fast approaching and we need your help.

Sign up online www.PlymouthMA400.org or call: 508-830-1620, ext 112.

“ In this ever-changing educational

environment, we must continually

strive for improvement.”

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 322

With the community’s overwhelming

support and dedication to quality

public education, the new Plymouth

North High School opened its doors

to students for the first time this past

September. The new campus provides

every opportunity for an ideal

learning environment. It is considered

a “model school” according to the

Massachusetts School Building

Authority, and features green design,

energy conservation components,

superior workmanship, and most

importantly, the latest technology.

3S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 3

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Every major event at Plymouth North last year was nostalgic. Everyone felt the emotion as the building prepared to

be knocked down, from teachers packing up classrooms, to seniors leaving the building for the last time. Perhaps the most memorable events were the final basketball games held in the old Hank Rogers Gymnasium. On February 18th, 2012, both the girls and boys PNHS teams played their rival, Plymouth South. “It was really a good feeling knowing that we were the last team that was ever going to play in that old gym,” said Connor Follette, Plymouth North basketball player. “I think it made us play harder, even though we weren’t able to come out with the win.” South came out on top with a final score of 56-44. Even though the score didn’t show a victory, the presence of all the past players and coaches gave everyone a feeling of joy.

Following the boys’ game, the girls’ team pulled out a 61-48 victory over South. They fought hard throughout the entire game, and it paid off. “I was really happy that we were able to get the win,” said Robin DuRoss, player for the PNHS girls’ basketball team. “We have been working hard all season, and that win felt good. As for it being the last game in this gym, it’s even more special for me and the other seniors because we won’t get the chance to play at the new school.”

The ceremony between games reminded those in the stands of the most memorable moments that took place in the Hank Rogers Gymnasium. Decades of basketball games were played there – many of them featured North and South rivals, after the split of the two schools. Players who have not been to the Hank Rogers Gymnasium in years were given the opportunity to return, and to recall what it was like when they played in high school. The speeches made by alumni and former coaches will always be remembered by the players and community of Plymouth North. Old memories were conjured – victories, as well as tough losses. Plymouth North pride was present in the Hank Rogers Gymnasium that night.

It is clear that the Plymouth North community continues to show its pride in the new school. Every game played there will create a new legacy; our teams will continue to work just as hard.

Plymouth North Enters the Last Leg of the Race to the New School by Casey Campbell, student writer

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Photos courtesy of the Old Colony Memorial

last high School basketball games in the hank rogers Gymnasium

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 344

Katelin Gellar may only be a sophomore at

Plymouth South High School, but her maturity, vision and accomplishments tell a different story. In 2011, this dedicated Girl Scout and lifelong Manomet resident was faced with a challenge – earning the Girl Scout Silver Award. This award, promoting community service, is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. The criteria for the award are to identify a community problem and implement a solution. Each candidate is required to submit their concept via a two-page application, accompanied by photos documenting the problem and journey towards resolution.

At the time, Katelin’s mother, Brenda, was Director of Marketing and Admissions at Plymouth Rehabilitation and Health Care Center

(Formerly Radius Healthcare Center at Plymouth). Katelin spent countless hours volunteering at the facility’s Pediatric Day School, which educates students with medically complex needs. She quickly became aware of one tremendous difference between the opportunities provided to public school students versus these special care students – these students did not have a library. Katelin recognized that the children at the Athena Day School (formerly Radius) shared her love of reading, even those who could not read independently. “The children at this school love books. When they pick up a book, you can see it in their faces”, she said. Given her lifelong love of reading, the Silver Award challenge suddenly seemed blaringly obvious. She had identified the problem:

the children of Athena Day School needed a library.

Her first step was to approach facility management regarding available space. They were more than receptive and accommodating, and for the next year and a half, Katelin spent the majority of her free time “building” a library. She prepped the space with fresh, brightly painted walls, and decorated the room. She independently executed three Scholastic book fairs, generating revenue and books for the library. When Katelin heard the Borders chain was going out of business, she approached management at the Kingston location. Due to federal bankruptcy laws, the company was not permitted to donate anything. However, they allowed her to purchase their bookshelves and other fixtures at a very reasonable price. The Plymouth Moose

Club donated the money for the book shelves, and, touched by Katelin’s motivation, Plymouth Rehabilitation and Health Care Center purchased beanbags and a “reading rug” to make the space more welcoming and inviting. Students, teachers, families, and faculty now use the library enthusiastically and regularly. Katelin’s future plans for the library are to expand the book selection, and she will continue to gratefully accept book donations.

Katelin’s project is a testament to her compassion and leadership skills. Her example of practicing good citizenship is worthy of recognition and praise, and should be a model to all.

And yes, Katelin earned her Silver Award.

Recognition of Student Leadership and Compassion Outside of School Walls

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Proud and accomplished Plymouth South hS student katelin Gellar

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

5S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 5

Julia demonstrates some of the technology at the new North High School

T here is a treasure that has been taken from

the old Plymouth North High School to the new PNHS, and her name is Julia Colby. Julia is a Technology Integration Specialist for the district, and during the past five years, she has worked tirelessly with teachers and students to weave new technology into the Plymouth Public School District.

Julia has introduced many initiatives to the Plymouth schools, bringing new technology to the teachers and students in a variety of ways. One of Julia’s key goals was to make the Plymouth School District a Google district. This means that each teacher in the district, and every student in grades 6-12, now

has a Google Apps account. Google Apps allows users to access an interactive calendar and documents that work collaboratively with other users. Teachers can give quizzes and tests through Google Apps, and automatically generate spreadsheets to show the results of those assessments. They can also create sites that will enable students to view demonstrations, and get help with class work or homework. Julia earned Plymouth the honor of becoming a Google district, and then went on to collaborate with Plymouth Schools and Endicott College to teach a course educating other teachers about how to integrate Google Apps into the classroom.

Another major initiative that Julia pushed for in the district was the integration of iPads into classrooms. Plymouth North High School was the first school in Plymouth to purchase

a set of iPads. Soon after the purchase, Julia visited an English classroom and worked with a teacher and her students on one of the devices, creating

Julia ColbyFinding Treasureby Julie Schultz

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

New technology at North During the 2011-2012 school year, Julia’s role was exclusively at the old North High School. Under Julia’s guidance, the entire campus faculty was instructed on the technology in the new North High School prior to September. The faculty was eager to put it to use purposefully when the doors opened to students for the first time. Every teacher at the new school has their own classroom, each with a new laptop outfitted with Windows 7 and Office 2010. This alone thrills teachers, but there is so much more! Each classroom has a multimedia station, including a short throw projector, live broadcast television, and an on-demand system. Administrators have the ability to remotely tune-in on important television or media events in every classroom in the school. If history is in the making, the entire school population can watch in real-time.

Each classroom at the new PNHS also has an ENO interactive whiteboard. Teachers and students can project lessons and presentations from the computer onto the whiteboard, equipped with a pen incorporated with Bluetooth technology. Lessons can be saved and printed for students who need review, extra support, or have an upcoming assessment. Digital presenters are also accessible, which enable users to write on paper and then display that writing on the ENO whiteboard. Teachers have

the option to activate a video camera button so that sound and voice can be recorded, and the display can be captured at the same time.

Also featured at PNHS are dynamic voice distribution and sound systems. Each classroom is outfitted with an amplifier, Bose speakers, and two microphones – one for the teacher, one for a student. Teachers no longer have to strain to be heard, and students in every part of the classroom are able to hear clearly. All students benefit from this system, and feel more comfortable in their classrooms with improved listening and learning, and increased productivity.

The new technology in the district, particularly at the new Plymouth North High School, enables teachers to educate more effectively by providing unlimited access and opportunity for learning. Julia Colby continues to play a critical role in guiding the district through the technology learning curve. She is an outstanding educator, continuing to open up new worlds to both teachers and their students.

continued on page 6

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 366

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

a book about positive changes that the students wanted to see at PNHS. It was a very successful and exciting project for Julia, the teacher, and the students. The school now has four iPad mobile carts that hold, charge and sync 30 iPads simultaneously. Julia spent a great deal of time implementing a system for the teachers to “check out” and utilize the equipment. She continues to oversee this, and assist the teachers with any questions or projects they want to introduce. She is currently teaching an additional graduate class through Plymouth Schools and Endicott College to further educate teachers about integrating iPads into their classrooms.

Julia has also instructed teachers and students on progressive ways to present lessons, class work, and projects. Through multimedia, she has demonstrated ways to work collaboratively on solutions to challenges, and how to document students’ own learning. For example, math teachers were taught how to display entire lessons via YouTube, posting videos featuring students demonstrating a variety different ways to complete calculus concepts. When students are absent or need extra help, they can simply watch a complete lesson on a computer. Julia has also worked with faculty to enable them to use a variety of presentation tools such as Prezi – an application that uses a single canvas to present a topic rather than traditional slides, and Museum Box – a way to display information about any topic in a virtual box that looks as if it belongs in a museum (complete with sound, images, and video). In addition, teachers were taught how to assist students in making movies and trailers for books they have read. These methods of presenting are invaluable to students who are receiving their education in the current technology age.

Melissa FrommGrade 2 Teacher at Indian Brook Elementary

Melissa graduated from Salve Regina University in the spring of 2010,

and was hired as a second grade teacher at Indian Brook Elementary the following September. Melissa has “a passion for children,” and values “work that makes you feel like you’re making a difference.” She acknowledges that many segments of our community need support, but fell into teaching because “children need advocates.”

This is currently Melissa’s third year as a second grade teacher at Indian Brook. In her inclusion classroom of 20 students, she encourages kindness at all times. She focuses on helping her students gain independence, build stamina and strengthen problem solving skills. Most recently, Melissa has been collaborating with Literacy Specialist Jennifer Yaeger on implementation of a new reading and writing program. She believes in the effectiveness of author Lucy Calkins’ Units

of Study for Teaching Reading, which teaches rigorous and responsive reading and writing workshops. Melissa uses workshop models for a great deal of her classroom instruction.

During the summer of 2011, Melissa spent 3 weeks volunteering in an orphanage in the Dominican Republic. She taught English to children ages 4-18, and found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of her life this far.

As an educator, Melissa’s future goals are to incorporate technology into her classroom, and focus more on reading instruction. This fall she will begin coursework for her M.Ed. in Specialist Teacher of Reading at Lesley University. She is eager to become more experienced with reading and writing workshops, guided reading and assessment, and targeting skills that fill in gaps in differentiated instruction.

Melissa values “work that makes you feel like you’re

making a difference”.

Julia Colbycontinued from page 5

7S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 7

PPS Award-winning Educational Television Program

W ith comprehensive production and

curriculum programs at all levels, the Plymouth Public School District is home to the most award-winning Educational Television Program in New England, led by EDTV Director Dan Riley. With John Rezendes as Educational TV Assistant and Kristen DiGravio as Producer/Reporter, this past fall the program settled into its new, state-of-the-art home upon completion of the new Plymouth North High School.

CurriculumWithin the school district, the Educational Television program has a presence at the elementary, middle and high school levels, where students are offered an introduction to video production at the discretion of building administration. For example, Cold Spring

Elementary School provides students the opportunity to participate in Video Club, under the direction of grade 5 teacher Ali Shaughnessy. Once accepted into this 6-week afterschool program, Ms. Shaughnessy facilitates weekly meetings where students write, present, film, and edit using iMovie, ultimately creating a short video as a final project. Hedge Elementary offers a morning video program featuring students presenting weather and around-the-school news. Hedge principal Adam Blaisdell emails the video to each classroom teacher, who then plays the video in the morning when their class is ready. “It’s better than live TV because they can manage the classroom and play it at the best possible time,” said Mr. Riley.

SuperTeach is a dynamic live reality–style show that is incorporated into all grade

levels, beginning at the elementary level. During SuperTeach, the students teach Superintendent Maestas a lesson they have recently learned – the students become the educators. According to Mr. Riley, “There are no cuts during the filming. As soon as Gary walks into the building we hit record and do not stop until he leaves.” This school year alone, Dr. Maestas has participated in lessons from Culinary Arts, Chinese Culture, Electrical, Drawing, Engineering and Mathematics Department students.

At the Middle School level, students are encouraged to participate in after school video production. Programs are held weekly at both PCIS (FalconTV, facilitated by Mr. Rezendes and Mrs. DiGravio), and PSMS (JagTV, run by Media Specialist Alexandra Grundt). Students participating in the program

produce a 20-minute news show every 6 weeks. The show format is identical to the high school program, but is scaled down appropriately. It gives the middle school students the chance to test the waters, and determine if they want to pursue video production in high school. The equipment at both middle schools is identical with respect to the number of computers and cameras, and the program is open to students in grades 6-8.

The high school program is the most comprehensive. Students accepted into the TV Journalism course are exposed to the complete television production experience. The PSHS program is run by Adam Smith and Eric Walker, and the PNHS program is facilitated by Michelle Terry. All levels of production are done by the students, including writing, off-camera research, on-camera reporting, on-camera Interviews, editing, news hosting, news graphic design, camera operation, audio engineering, studio set-up, and technical (lighting and sound). A typical news program mimics the format of national news broadcasts, and usually consists of the following components: Top Story, School Event, Outside the Walls (events off campus, including Red Sox Spring Training, Water Fires in Providence, America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade), Sports, Student Opinions, and News & Notes (announcements). Beginning in September, a separate program called RoundTable will take

CURRICULUM

the new Plymouth North eDtV studio

Photo courtesy Dan Riley

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 388

COMMUNITY CURRICULUM

shape; featuring group-style discussions about hot topics in the district, similar in format to the NBC program Meet the Press.

In addition to the journalism production, both North and South High schools offer a film production class. Facilitated by Sherie Harkins at North and Adam Smith at South, the format is completely different than the TV Journalism program. While many students are interested in TV News, others just want to be movie-makers, so this class allows students to participate in video creation and not be in front of a camera. This class is ideal for any student interested in a career in video production or film.

New Studio technologyThose involved in the EDTV program were excited about the studio’s move into the new Plymouth North HS. The technology-rich and energy efficient facility includes a high definition television studio featuring professional quality cameras and equipment, and a live production control room. The control room is connected to 8 key areas of the school, enabling students to produce live shows, and features a video switcher, which allows cameras throughout the school to be viewed at any time. There is also a fully equipped news and talk show set. The new audio engineering room is where students can create music

compositions and voice over for shows. The athletic field house is connected to the control room via high definition and fiber cables. When filming and broadcasting sporting events, the crew controls camera shot switches back at the control room, and audio feeds directly from the field.

In addition to all previously mentioned school video programs, sporting events and news programs, EDTV faculty and students are also responsible for filming and broadcasting district special events, including school events (concerts, plays, award nights, pep rallies), School Committee meetings, training videos, PSA’s, assemblies, and school promos.

Awards and AchievementsTo the department’s credit, under the direction of Mr. Riley, PPS EDTV has won an impressive and incomparable number of awards over the past several years. In the last 3 years alone, students in the program have earned an impressive 19 New England Emmy Awards in the categories of Best Writing, Best Sports Story, Best Short Story, Best News Story, Best Photography, and Best Arts & Entertainment. Fourteen Northeast Scholastic Press Awards have been won in the categories of Best Videography, Best TV News Package, Best TV Sports Package, and Best TV Feature Package. Twelve New England Scholastic Press Awards have been won in

Photo courtesy Dan Riley

9S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 9

A few of Plymouth North’s 19 New england emmy Awards

Photo courtesy Dan Riley

Best Newscast, Best PSA, Best Feature Story and Best News Story. This long list of impressive achievements makes the PPS EDTV program the most decorated educational television production program in New England.

beyond hSMost importantly, the opportunities the program provides to the students give them inarguable skills and advantages to further their education in production after graduation. Meet a few of those motivated and talented young adults:

Shawn Flanagan, PNN Class of 2012, is currently enrolled in the Television/Film Program at

NYU, which is viewed by many in the industry as one of the 5 top TV/Film programs in the entire country. Recently, Shawn was a Salem Student Film Festival Finalist (2nd Place) with his Short Film called “The Lingering.” Quoted at the film festival, “The dream is to be a director,” Flanagan said. “I love movies, I love film, I love storytelling so much that, if there’s any way I can be involved, whether it’s editing or any position on the set, I’ll be very happy.” Shawn also recently won a “New England Emmy Award” for “Best Student Editor in New England.”

Frank Livera, Panther TV Class of 2011, will be a sophomore at Bryant University this fall. He has hosted a radio show

on a Providence area radio station, and has been named Co-Producer of his school’s sports broadcast, Bryant Sportscenter. Frank expressed his appreciation to the program: “The experience I gained from Panther TV has been priceless in my transition to college, and that gives me even more reason to be thankful to the program.”

TV Class of 2010 student Diane Coon, a Panther TV alumna, is currently entering her junior year at Lasell College, where she is majoring in Sports Communication and Radio/Video Production. She started her own TV Club at the school last year and is currently applying for an internship at the Boston (TD) Garden.

Lauren Foley, PNN Class of 2009, is currently enrolled in the Television/Film Program at Emerson College, also considered one of the 5 top TV/Film programs in the country. Lauren’s films were recently viewed at the “LA Showcase, A Student Film Festival.” She is also a songwriter, singer, and music video creator.

Mr. Riley and the entire EDTV faculty have settled into their new space at PNHS, and they look forward all the opportunities the move will bring to this award-winning program.

CURRICULUM“ The experience I gained from Panther TV has been priceless in my transition to college, and that gives me even more reason to be thankful to the program”.

-Frank Livera, Panther TV class of 2011, current Bryant University Student.

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3101010

NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

Chris has a strong engineering background in

mechanical systems operation and maintenance. He graduated from Massachusetts Maritime Academy in 1996 with a degree in Marine Engineering, and sailed as a Merchant Marine Engineer Officer for 10 years (earning his license as Chief Engineer). Leaving his career at sea behind, Chris was hired by the district in 2006 as an HVAC technician. In this role, he concentrated on building and improving the district’s preventative maintenance program, and working to find efficiencies and operational opportunities targeted towards saving energy. In 2010, Chris was promoted to Energy Conservation Coordinator. He continues to promote the PPS district’s conservation initiatives,

and expand efforts to increase mechanical efficiencies. Chris is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) through the Association of Energy Engineers, and has LEED AP credentials through the US Green Building Council.

ConservationIn the words of Thomas A. Edison, “It’s better to enlighten a child than to light a school room.” Of course, it would not be reasonable to expect students to learn in dark classrooms. However, an important part of a successful energy conservation program is behavior modification, which includes training and commitment of faculty and students. All users must know their responsibilities, which include powering down all

machines and utilities at the end of the school day, being vigilant about thermostat settings, keeping vents clear, closing doors, and more. Each school as a unit can have a tremendous impact on the district’s energy costs.

efficiencyA successful energy program is only as good as the efficiency of its equipment. “District savings are based on what we can do with controls,” says Hastings. PPS has taken full advantage of upgrade projects sponsored by NSTAR. All interior lighting was upgraded for efficiency – over seven hundred fixtures within the district have been changed out from 400w to 100w. Exterior lighting at the buildings has been replaced

with LED. The web-based control system – timing and photo cells for the schools – is located at Oak Street. Controls have been upgraded for better management of HVAC equipment. On snow or storm days, Chris is able to access and control the entire system from home via computer. In addition, most of the “oil buildings” have been converted to natural gas, which costs less than half the price of oil.

Maintenance is also critical to efficiency. Regular, preventative maintenance, such as filter and belt changes and greasing, is now automated. The district uses School Dude – an online, facility operations management program. When a maintenance task is due, School Dude automatically generates a work

The Plymouth Public School District is a Leader in Energy Conservation

We are far ahead of the curve, with Energy Conservation Coordinator Chris Hastings leading the way.

11S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 11WINTER | SPRING 2012

NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

order, and sends the order to the appropriate technician. This ensures all necessary maintenance is done, and streamlines efficiency.

renewable energyUnder Chris’ leadership, the district currently has two significant, renewable energy projects in the works. The first is a large, offsite, net-metered project. Through a partnership with Borrego Solar, two solar arrays totaling eight megawatts are split between Plympton and Plymouth sites. The generated energy goes directly to a

grid, and the district is then credited the amount of energy produced.

The second renewable energy project is Plymouth North’s “behind the meter” (BTM) project. This is a renewable energy system designed for a single building. The electric meter slows down, compensating for the amount of solar energy that is generated; therefore, reducing or eliminating the amount of purchased energy. A private company maintains this project, and there are provisions in the contract that dictate a

minimum guarantee. Currently, the new North is the only building in the district that can physically support solar panels because of new load designs.

“Our total energy cost avoidance as compared to our baseline year of 2003-2004 now exceeds over 30% annually,” Chris said. As a result, the Plymouth Public School District has been publicly recognized

for its tremendously successful Energy Conservation program. The district was awarded the Energy Excellence award in 2010 from Energy Education Inc. and in 2011 the district was nominated by Enernoc to be recognized for achievement by the New England Clean Energy Council at their Annual Green Tie Gala held at the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston.

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 312

Plymouth South High School: Not Forgotten!An interview with Plymouth South High School’s Principal Patricia Fry

V: What is the history of Plymouth South High School?

PF: Plymouth South High School was built in 1987, when more space was needed to accommodate Plymouth students. It was not occupied until 1988, due to lack of operational funds.

V: What makes PS unique?

PF: Contrary to what many believe, PSHS is not a vocational school. We are one of only 9 comprehensive high schools in the state. Comprehensive schools provide technical and vocational training, but are different from vocational high schools. Our students are given the identical academic experience as traditional high school students – the vocational training is in addition to their rigorous course of study. We do great things at this school, despite the significant structural limitations and deficits, and as a result, PSHS has won numerous awards. We were selected as a Compass School

by the DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) due to great improvement on MCAS Scores, from a longitudinal perspective. Following the CPR Audit (Coordinated Program Review) by the DESE, we were labeled a “Model Comprehensive High School.” In addition, PSHS was selected to present our “successes” at two national principal conferences through the Center for Secondary School Redesign – in Tampa (March 2012) and San Francisco (February 2011). We have also presented in New Hampshire and Las Vegas at Regional workshops, mainly about our personalization efforts.

V: What are the challenges the campus is facing?

PF: The facility is very “80’s” in design. It features a dated geothermal heating system – of the 86 classrooms, only 12 have natural light. The air conditioning system is so weak that it hardly keeps mold at bay.

The metal-seamed roof leaks significantly. The building is struck by lightning regularly, causing power and system outages. The current vocational departments were designed for trades of the 80’s. Technical studies are moving ahead; therefore, current tools and shops in the building are outdated and obsolete. The science labs are non-functioning, with no working gas lines, making AP Chemistry and Human Anatomy classes deficient. Due to lack of space, the library was modified and currently houses two classrooms, and a number of closets have been converted to classroom space. In addition to structural failures, the design of the building does not lend to a cohesive school culture – the poorly designed “cafetorium” was built to accommodate lunches and small assemblies in one space, and the gymnasium is only equipped with bleachers on one side. The building cannot accommodate a school-wide assembly. Quite simply, PSHS is a lemon, as noted by the head architect of the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority).

COMMUNITY

PShS principal Patrica Fry

13S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3

V: In 2006, the citizens of Plymouth approved an override to address both high schools. Plymouth North High School opened its doors last September. Where is PSHS in this process?

PF: Correct. The override was for a two-school solution, and Plymouth South was incorporated in the proposal. At that time, the state requested that we (community) prioritize projects by need. Given the age, significant disrepair and safety concerns of the old PNHS facility, it was obvious that it needed to take first priority. The new PNHS opened to students last September, and now the state is ready to focus on the critical needs of Plymouth South High School. We are currently in the beginning phase of a Feasibility Study, which will determine how to make best use of the taxpayers’ money. The results of this comprehensive study will help the town develop the most cost-effective and educationally appropriate solution. Owners Project Manager (OPM) Ted Gentry Associates has been hired. This is the same firm that managed the PNHS project. Ultimately, when the study is complete, the Massachusetts School Building Authority will weigh all factors, and make a determination between a renovation solution, or a rebuild solution. Once the decision has been made, MSBA will present to the Board of Selectmen for approval.

V: How will the town ensure that the PSHS project will not result in poor quality again?

PF: This most recent process has ensured financial responsibility, thorough planning, rigorous maintenance programs, and a trusted and reputable OPM. The PNHS rebuild is a perfect example of project responsibility. At some point, you need to trust the people who know what they are doing.

V: What would you like to see PS look like after the project is complete?

PF: My hope is for Plymouth South High School to become a true Model Comprehensive School, with a modern learning environment. I want to provide enhanced educational experiences to the students by meeting all academic, intellectual, cultural, and recreational needs. I look forward to providing solutions to the

shortage of skilled workers and inadequate education through STEM education initiatives (focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) by giving students the environment, skills and experiences necessary to excel in these fields in the global market. We are committed to green principles and the incorporation of technology in every classroom. In addition, I would like the facility to be a flagship to the community, open to residents for a variety of educational and recreational uses. I am cautiously optimistic – this is an exciting time for the community.

“ This is an exciting time for the community.”

COMMUNITY

All photos courtesy Caitlin Hynes, senior at PSHS

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 314

COMMUNITY

15S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 1515

Throughout the United States and right here in Plymouth, Mass., budget

cuts to public education have taken a toll on programs and services available to schoolchildren and citizens. Seeing a need to personally address this issue head-on, Plymouth Schools Superintendent Gary Maestas, Ed.D. embarked on a 600-mile “DreamRide” bike ride from Washington, DC, to America’s Hometown of Plymouth, Massachusetts. The primary goal of the DreamRide was to raise funds for the Plymouth Education Foundation – the premier, non-profit organization established to support and enhance the education of the students and citizens of the Town of Plymouth. The DreamRide had significant momentum and support from sponsors, local citizens, and businesses.

“The DreamRide presented a unique opportunity to partner awareness of health issues with educational advancement, as well as providing a fundraising vehicle for the Plymouth Education Foundation,” said Robert C. Betters, president of the Plymouth Education Foundation. “It is a testament to the innovative spirit of Dr. Gary Maestas, the Superintendent of Plymouth Public Schools, to make a dream become a reality.”

Dr. Maestas was joined on the DreamRide by Jordan Hospital President and CEO Peter Holden, who rode in support of Maestas’ education and health awareness message. Jordan Hospital was the main event sponsor. The two trained 50-75 miles per day as they prepared for a biking journey that took them from the nation’s capital to Massachusetts. On the final day of the journey, they departed from the Massachusetts State House and biked to Plymouth, Massachusetts, with a police escort the entire way. The ride concluded at Jordan Hospital in Plymouth, where a delegation of Massachusetts elected

officials and thousands of supporters greeted them at the DreamRide Health Fair, open to the entire community.

As the team traveled up the Northeast corridor, it stopped at schools along the way to emphasize the importance of funding for public education and the need to minimize cuts to important services and programs. These talks emphasized a health and wellness message and the need for the nation’s youth to step away from the computer, get up, get out, and get in shape. Dr. Maestas spoke at schools in Aberdeen, Maryland; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Newark, New Jersey; and Bridgeport and Mystic, Connecticut.

Dr. Maestas and Holden were accompanied by a DreamRide Team comprised of Plymouth School students, teachers, and a nurse. Daily video reports/blogs were recorded from the road. In addition, his progress was recorded via GPS online, as well as his heart rate and other vitals. The video/media element of the DreamRide provided a number of

educational and curriculum opportunities, both for the crew working the ride and students back home in Plymouth.

Several local and national organizations helped to make the DreamRide and related Health Fair a reality. Serious Cycles of Manomet donated a SPECIALIZED bike for the event. In addition, Serious Cycles owner Seth Lawrence trained two students as repair technicians for the ride. Other major sponsors included the YMCA, Studio22Web.com, AT&T, Marty’s GMAC, First Student Bus Company, Plymouth and Brockton Street Railway Company, Architecture Involution, LLC, Freeman Company, Radius Healthcare, Prime Time Sports, PR Works, Cabby Shack Restaurant, Powderhorn Press, and SYSCO.

Proceeds from the DreamRide went directly to the Plymouth Education Foundation (www.plymoutheducationfoundation.org), a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that solicits, manages, and distributes funds for educational purposes and activities that may not otherwise be funded.

DreamRide: A Man and His Dream600 mile bike ride to raise funds for education

Dr. Maestas and Jordan Hospital CEO Peter Holden at the beginning of DreamRide

COMMUNITY

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 31616

Michael MaccaferriClarinetist Michael J. Maccaferri is a

proud Plymouth native. He moved to Plymouth from Kingston in 1980, attending grades 1-6 at Plymouth South Elementary, where his first clarinet instructor (the late John Pacheco) and music instructor Susan Dolan made a tremendous impact on his interest in music. Michael spent grade seven at NMES, taking lessons with band director and clarinetist Robert Arsenault. In eighth grade, Michael moved with the rest of his class to PCIS, continuing his clarinet instruction under band director Paul Howard. Michael attended PSHS through grades 9, 10, and 11, during which time he performed under high school band director Jonathan Porter, and began studying privately at the New England Conservatory of Music. With aspirations of a career in music, Michael chose to spend his senior high school year at the Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick, MA.

Following Walnut Hill, Michael enrolled at the Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio, where he actively participated in many ensembles, including the Oberlin Chamber Orchestra and Contemporary Music Ensemble. At Oberlin, his love for new music led him to meet members of his current ensemble, eighth blackbird.

After his time at Oberlin, he moved with eighth blackbird to Cincinnati to study at the University of Cincinnati College – Conservatory of Music, then to his current home in Chicago to attend Northwestern University.

Now in its sixteenth year touring as a sextet, eighth blackbird serves as Ensemble-in-Residence at the University of Chicago, University of Richmond, as well as the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where they spend several weeks per year at each performing and teaching in addition to their global concert schedule. The ensemble has

won three GRAMMY Awards, for Strange Imaginary Animals (Best Chamber Music Performance, 2008); Lonely Motel: Music from Slide (Best Small Ensemble Performance, 2012); and most recently for their album Meanwhile (Best Small Ensemble Performance, 2013). The group has produced ten albums, to date.

This fall, Michael will return to Plymouth to collaborate and perform with select music students from the Plymouth high schools at Opening Day, scheduled for August 29th.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Photo courtesy Luke Ratray Photography

17S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 17

Are you A GrADuAte or PASt StuDeNt oF the PlyMouth PublIC SChoolS?

Currently in the works, is the Plymouth Public School’s Alumni Association, a committee of the Plymouth Education Foundation. The intent of the Association is to promote fellowship and a mutually beneficial relationship between the district, its alumni, and the community. As a member, you will have access to news, upcoming events, activities and benefits. If you would like to join the association, please register online at: www.plymouthalumni.net

Are you interested in becoming actively involved in the organization? Please let us know! Inquiries may be sent to: mbadger@plymouth.k12.ma.us

The Plymouth Education Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors representing a cross-section of citizens who are dedicated to education and share a vision for excellence in our schools. The Foundation was created primarily to support and enhance the education of all students in the Plymouth School District.

we Need your help

Become a Donor to the Foundation and you will become part of a local organization committed to supporting educational success.

Supporting lifelong learning Programs

Foundation Programs support the Plymouth School District’s mission and align with the District’s Strategic Plan to promote educational excellence to enhance lifelong learning. Programs are implemented as funds are available or as they are endowed. The Foundation may also work with other organizations and individuals to promote education in the Town of Plymouth.

www.plymoutheducationfoundation.org

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 31818

Plymouth Public Schools 253 South Meadow Road Plymouth, MA 02360

standard presort

U.s. postaGe

PAID perMIt no. 96 plyMoUth, Ma

02360