Friday, May 27, 2022
Dear Watertown Public Schools Faculty and Families,
Rising Up for Those Who Matter
After a week of feeling a full range of emotions, I am so proud to share what I’ve been seeing and hearing has happened this week in the Watertown Public Schools. Superintendents have a running joke that when they’re having a bad day, they go visit Kindergarten classes. Well, there’s a whole lot of truth in that little joke. Today’s visit to hear about designing cupcakes at JTPS certainly transformed my morning!
The day after the devastating news of our colleagues in education in Texas, teachers, administrators, and staff alike rose to every occasion. As parents dropped off some of our youngest learners with hesitant feelings after such a tragedy, they were met with smiling faces and reassurance from morning arrival teachers and counselors who were prepared to run a smooth and engaging day.
Our building and central office administrators made rounds from class to class and building to building to check in. Our WPD were vigilantly stationed at each of our schools and even Lola, our WPD comfort dog roamed the hallways - her presence a soothing reassurance for students and faculty.
Our WPS team of educators displayed professionalism, care, and thoughtfulness as they always do, but it meant a little extra this week to many of us. As you know, children of all ages are sponges. They are always watching and our district should be so proud that our WPS team rose to the occasion this week.
Remembering Those Who Serve Our Country
Memorial Day is an opportunity for all of us to honor the people who serve our country in duty and life. As you see our flags this weekend, they represent our friends, neighbors, brothers, sisters, parents, extended family and colleagues who have fallen while serving in all branches of the military.
These very people may have been on their very first tour early in life or on their last tour about to come home who never made it back. It is on this very day that we honor their devotion and their love of country. Whether you’re starting up the grill, marching in the parade, or relaxing at home, take a few moments to honor the memories of these very special people. Happy Memorial Day everyone.
Budget Referendum #2
On Monday, at a special Town Council meeting, the Watertown Town Council set a new referendum number for both the Town budget and School budget.
- Town of Watertown Budget will be required to cut their budget by an additional -$200,000.00
- Board of Education will be required to cut the budget by an additional -$500,000.00
- Referendum #2 will take place on Tuesday, June 21, 2022
The district administration has begun working with key stakeholders to determine steps forward in response to this required cut. The Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, May 31 at 6PM in the Watertown Lecture Hall to discuss the new budget number.
I encourage all of our families to consider how this additional half a million dollar reduction will impact the Watertown Public Schools by asking questions or reaching out directly for more information.
Have a lovely weekend,
Dr. V
Click here to see pictures from the Junior and Senior Prom
Click here to see pictures from the Manufacturing Program Celebration
Click here to see pictures from the BOE Student Recognitions and Awards
Important Dates
May 30 Memorial Day Parade, 10AM on Main Street
May 31 Special Board Meeting, 6PM
May 31 Grade 8 Dinner Dance
June 1 Full school Quassy trip
June 2 Parent Orientation for incoming Grade 6 students
June 7 Watertown Transition Academy (WTA) Graduation, 10AM
June 9 Grade 5 students visit Swift
June 12 Senior Car Parade
June 13 Swift Graduation, 10:30AM | WHS Graduation 6:30PM
June 14 Last Day of School!