February 13, 2022

Happy Super Sunday Quashnet Community! 

I wish it was a Patriot's Super Sunday, but...we can't have everything! 

Wishing you all a happy Valentine's Day on Monday, February 14. Please keep in mind the School Committee's Wellness Policy, students should not bring candy and/or treats to school.  If there is a Valentine exchange with candy or treats, students will be asked to bring these items home and not eat them in school. Thank you for your cooperation. 

Certainly, the biggest news of the week is the school mask policy. 

As I am sure you are aware, Massachusetts is lifting its state-mandated mask policy for schools, effective on February 28, 2022.  What this means is that the decision requiring masks to be worn in schools shifts to the school committee in each district. Mashpee has a mask policy that remains in effect.  The Mashpee School Committee has scheduled a meeting on March 2, 2022, at 6:00 PM in the Quashnet Library to review the policy and make any edits thereto.   There will be NO CHANGE in the masking requirement in Mashpee Public Schools until the School Committee changes the policy. Students should be prepared to wear masks when returning from February vacation. 

At this time, masks are required on all school buses.  This is a federal requirement and there has been NO CHANGE to this guideline.

Navigating these constant changes has been a challenge for ALL of us. Thank you for your support as we work through these transitions and potential policy changes TOGETHER. 

Vacation week is coming up the week of February 21-25.  If you are staying local, a visit to the Mashpee Public Library is well worth it. 

Did you know they have STEM Backpack Kits available?  How fun! Check out this link  https://mashpeepubliclibrary.org. 

The library also has multiple resources for Black History Month, books at every level, movies, mobile hot spots, and more. It is a fabulous resource right here in Mashpee! 

 

SOCIAL MEDIA EDUCATION 

Beginning this week, Grade 5 will be engaging in social media education with our director of instruction technology, our school resource officer, and guidance counselors within homeroom classes. We are hopeful that this smaller group setting, versus a grade-level assembly, will allow students to feel comfortable asking questions. The purpose of this training is to provide students with the knowledge of the potential implications of hitting "SEND" on any device. Grade 6 students will receive the same training right after February break.  

Social Media is a responsibility that many students are not handling well or do not understand how to get help when they need it. Devices need to be monitored and controlled by parents/guardians. To help support this task, a virtual parent training is coming soon. 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me directly at mobrien@mpspk12.org. 

NOW, THIS IS IMPRESSIVE!  WAY TO GO QUASHNET! 

Congratulations to the QS Robotics Team - they worked very hard in last Monday's competition and most of the team will be heading to Burlington, MA for their next competition. It was so impressive to see their perseverance. Great Job and thank you, Coach Whiddon! 

Last week, Deputy Cahill brought his beautiful new puppy, Mya, to meet his friends at Quashnet School.  Check out the photos on the tab above. We are all missing our friend Keiki and this was such a nice treat! Thanks for sharing Deputy Cahill! 

FYI- There will not be a QS Blog post next Sunday, the next posting will be on Sunday, February 27, 2022, @ 5:00 PM.  

This week will be a full week of academics! Have a safe and healthy February vacation.   

With gratitude, 

Principal O'Brien