 Click here to watch Hingham's Weekly Update By Carol Britton Meyer
Even though Hingham Public Schools officials overall wish things were different -- with no need for a face mask policy for the new school year -- the School Committee unanimously approved this week, following an earlier lengthy discussion, a face coverings policy that's effective immediately. That's because sports tryouts and activities related to back to school are already taking place, including at the individual schools. This policy is in line with Commissioner of Education Jeffrey Riley's announcement this week of a statewide public schools indoors face mask mandate for K-12 students over the age of five, teachers, staff, and visitors. Face masks are not required outdoors. The goal is to provide and maintain a safe environment in the town's six schools during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which HPS administrators say is critical to returning students to a continuing "full-time classroom learning experience." There are some exceptions to this policy for those who have medical, behavioral or another challenge that makes it unsafe to wear a face mask or face covering. The HPS policy is based on guidance from public health experts. Committee member Michelle Ayer summed up the overarching goal: "trying to maintain a sense of normalcy while keeping our students safe, with a mask policy in place." The policy will be reviewed on a regular basis as needed.  Click here to watch Hingham's Weekly Update By Carol Britton Meyer
Plymouth River School Principal Melissa Smith recently stepped into the role of assistant principal, replacing Charleen Fabrizio, who recently accepted another position with Hingham Public Schools as elementary administrator of special education. At the same time, Gregory Lamothe -- who has served in a number of different roles as an educator in various communities -- has been named interim principal for the upcoming school year. Smith and Lamothe were the two finalists from among 25 candidates for the assistant principal position. Smith explained her reasons for accepting this new position in an email to PRS families. "After much reflection on my skill set and wanting to continue my loyalty to our excellent school, it was clear to me that this transition is a perfect opportunity for me personally and for the school's future success." Asst. Supt. of Schools Jamie LaBillois said that Lamothe and Smith -- coupled with "the dedicated and talented faculty and staff, wonderful students, and supportive parents that already exist at PRS make for an exciting combination in the year ahead." LaBillois will visit PRS in the fall to meet with faculty, students, and community members to explain the process for a full principal search. By Carol Britton Meyer Dr. Gary Maestas was recently named Hingham Public Schools interim superintendent of schools -- replacing Paul Austin, who resigned effective July 30. But it's not "official" yet, School Committee Chair Kerry Ni explained at a recent School Committee meeting. That's because although the Committee's intent was to enter into contract and salary negotiations with Maestas for a one-year time period, because he is retired and drawing a pension, Maestas was required to apply for a "Critical Shortage Waiver" from the state. Maestas retired after serving as Plymouth Public Schools Supt. of Schools from 2008 to 2020. State law provides for "critical shortage" waivers that permit a school district to employ a retired educator beyond his or her usual earning limits, in certain circumstances. "We're expecting an answer very soon," Ni said. Because there's important business to take care of -- including the eventual hiring of two new elementary principals to replace recently-resigned former Foster School Principal Beth Wilcox and former East School Principal Anthony Keady -- who both accepted positions with the Duxbury Public Schools -- the School Committee named HPS Asst. Supt. of Schools Jamie LaBillois to serve as acting superintendent until the waiver is granted. "This will enable us to move forward as a district," Ni said. By Carol Britton Meyer
There's plenty of summertime left -- until September 22! -- to celebrate all the fun things to do right here in Hingham. How about a stroll around Hingham Square, a visit to the Heritage Museum, lunch or dinner at a downtown restaurant, stopping by some of the shops, and then enjoying an ice cream at Nona's Homemade? Another fun activity is swimming at the Hingham Bathing Beach, followed by an ice cream, lobster roll, or other tasty treat at the Beach House snack shop. There's also sailing and rowing at Hingham Maritime Center, golfing at South Shore Country Club, and enjoying a walk at Wompatuck State Park or World's End for more outdoor fun. And don't forget the Hingham Farmers Market at the Bathing Beach Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring many different offerings. And these are only a few ideas! What's YOUR favorite summertime activity or favorite spot in Hingham?! |
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January 2023
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