August 19, 2019                          

Dear Sullivan M.S. Families,

I hope you are well and enjoying your summer vacation. Be it beach, lake, travel, or the “staycation,” I hope it was a restful and worthwhile time with friends and family. It was a busy summer at the Sullivan. We began with the 21st Century Summer Programming for many of our kids. That was a big hit and many of our staff participated as well. The school was alive with activity through a good portion of the summer. Many of the staff and I finished up our Turn Around Plan (a plan developed by the school and district to focus our efforts on best ensuring student achievement). We worked through all of the components related to our grade 5 returning (Welcome back grade 5!); We also developed our class lists, schedules, and hired some wonderful candidates for our open positions. Finally, our crack custodial team has been busy at work with a thorough building cleaning which was much needed. Kudos to them! Yes, it was a busy summer at the Sullivan. We should be in great shape for the opening. 

For me, it was not all work however. I was also able to take some important family time with the wife and kids as we went to Orlando for some amusement park time and then took a Carribean cruise with the inlaws. It was hot, but a lot of fun. Since our return, Dad’s Home Summer Uber Service is very much on duty with my three clients: (15 year old Olivia, 13 year old Molly and 11 year old Sean). Add to that some camps, practices, hockey clinics (actually I don’t mind doing on these hot summer days), beach/lake treks, various appointments, sleep over drop offs/pick ups, etc., etc., etc. in the midsts of household chores of cleaning, weeding, etc. It has been very busy…...When are we returning to school again?:)

Last year, as you know we were able to accomplish many things through the hard work and dedication of many in the Sullivan community including staff, parents and students. Those involved last year should be commended. Accomplishments include: 

• Increasing common planning time for teachers.
• Increasing differentiated instruction for all ability levels. 
• Increasing STEM instruction via STEM AA (included projects with drones and spheros).
• Establishing a school climate committee aimed at increasing and enhancing the school climate in the areas of staff morale, family involvement, positive relationship building, physical environment). 
• Reinstating the Grade 8 Washington D.C. School Trip.
• Starting a Peer Mediation Program.
• Engaging better Sullivan parents/guardians utilizing weekly principal messages, regularly updating parent contact information, initiating a Sullivan Facebook page, increasing/enhancing school community events including Holiday & Spring Concerts (with newly formed dance crew and chorus!) and “Suitcase Stories (a community event), .
• Creating a well-represented ILT (Instructional Leadership Team) who spent a significant amount of time during the latter part of the year (and into the summer) creating a “Turn-around Plan” to focus our efforts for the 19-20 school year to increase student learning/achievement. 
• Improving our overall building cleanliness and grounds.
• Continuing our PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention Support) activities as well as Respect and Responsibility Assemblies. 
• And finally, and this is what I am most happy about, initiating a “robust” after school/summer program at the school through the 21st Century Grant. In my estimation, it has reinvigorated students and staff.  This after school/summer programming has allowed for students to connect better with staff and the school in various ways (bake clubs, homework help, dance, student government, Coding, etc.,etc.) and provided students a “place to be” during the critical out of school hours. Now, at all times of the day and year, the halls are alive with kids and staff and it is a great thing. A happy, “connected” student is more likely to be successful academically, socially and emotionally. I hope you give it a try this year if you already haven’t done so. 

We learn from our endeavours. The following are some of the initiatives afoot for this upcoming school year:

• Implementing a newly developed “Turn Around Plan” that will focus our efforts daily to ensure our students achieve success. 
• Returning to a grade 5-8 school model from a grade 6-8 school model.
• Changing to an 8-teacher team (2 ELA, 2 Math, 2 SS, 2 Science) in grades 7 & 8 from a 6-teacher (2 ELA, 2 Math, 1 SS, 1 Science). 
• Reconfiguring our ELL/Newcomer service model to provide services to all ELL students. 
• Moving to a FOUR (4) day rotating master schedule. (To be posted on Sullivan Website) 
• Changing our AA offerings to PE (2), Art, Music, Drama, and Health as well as moving to a 15-day AA rotation for students. (To be posted on Sullivan Website)

Below are a few IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES: 

Finally, please be advised of the following IMPORTANT ITEMS OF NOTE to start off the school year:

• Morning Arrival at school is at 7:20 AM. There is NO STAFF SUPERVISION before 7:20 AM which is a safety issue for any student dropped off before that time. If you will be dropping off your child for school, PLEASE DO NOT DROP HIM/HER OFF BEFORE 7:20 AM. The tardy bell rings at 7:35 AM. All students should be in their homerooms by 7:35 AM. 
•  Arrival and Dismissal. Similar to last year, 
  • student walkers/car drop offs should enter/leave the building using the FRONT DOORS. Cars drop off/pick up using the FRONT Loop. Please be reminded to “PULL UP” your car as far as you can when dropping off or picking up. The first few days it always takes longer as we try to get into our school routine. Patience is a virtue. 
  • student bus takers should enter/leave the building using the BACK DOORS. No cars should be in the back parking lot during arrival and dismissal. 
• Busses. Any questions regarding bus transportation you should contact the Family Resource Center at 978-674-4321. In my experience, busses run late the first day (and the first week) as we begin to settle into a new traffic pattern. Your patience is appreciated.
• Student Supply Lists. Please refer to the “Parents and Students” tab of the Sullivan M.S. Website for details: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Domain/15
• New Master Schedule and AA Arts Schedule. This year we will have a new FOUR (4) day rotating schedule (Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4) and a new AA schedule/rotation. Please seeSullivan M.S. Website for details: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Domain/15
• Communication. I’ll be regularly updating my Principal’s Blog on the website to let the Sullivan Community know the important “goings on” at the Sullivan. Please visit the website regularly for this important information:  https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Domain/15
• Parent and Student Handbook. Please refer to “Parents and Students” tab of the school’s website to view the LPS Elementary and Middle School Parent and Student Handbook for important information related to school in particular behavioral expectations for all: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=147
• Cell phones. A reminder that to maintain an efficient and effective school learning environment and consistent with the Lowell Public Schools Elementary and Middle School Parent and Student Handbook, unauthorized use of student cell phones, i-phones, and other electronic devices is prohibited on school grounds (including bus trips to and from school). Students who bring cell phones/i-phones/etc. onto school grounds need to have them “shut off” and “put away” in a locker or class lock box. Students displaying and/or using these items in an unauthorized way will have them confiscated (to be picked up in the office by parents) and receive administrative consequences. Student and parent attention to and support of this rule is greatly appreciated. 
• Hoods. Pursuant to LPS policy, wearing hoods is not allowed in school. Students wearing hoods in school will receive classroom and administrative consequences. Student and parent attention to and support of this rule is greatly appreciated. 
• Classroom placements. Student classroom placements will be posted on Friday 8/23 after 7:00 PM on the Sullivan back doors (up the ramp in the rear of the building). Placement lists will remain posted over the weekend and up to the opening. When entering the building on the first day of school, grade 5 students should report to the auditorium and grade 6 students should report to the gym. Your teachers will meet you in those locations and walk you to your homerooms. Grade 7 and 8 students should report to their homerooms. Not sure where to go? ALL Sullivan staff will be “out and about” with copies of class lists to ensure students get to their proper locations. No worries, we will make sure your son/daughter gets to the right spots. They are in good hands!
• To raise a child to be successful academically, socially and emotionally, it truly does “Take a Village.” There are lots of ways to get involved in the Sullivan Community. One way is joining the Sullivan PTO. The Sullivan PTO is a wonderful organization who do great things for kids and the school and a great way to support your child and the school. Stay tuned for our first PTO Meeting! Hope to see you there. 

I hope that you have an enjoyable remainder of the summer and look forward to seeing you soon. Keep up that summer reading!!! 

Sincerely,

Ed Foster

Hello Sullivan Community,

What is that I hear…….Seagulls…..waves lapping against the shore….a motorized boat on a New Hampshire lake…..June bugs buzzing…..day trips…..kids laughing and playing…..Summer is coming. Not yet but one more week left, 4.5 days.

THIS PAST WEEK we had a whir of activity with the PTO Spring Scholastic Book Fair; grade 8 STEM AA drone flying; Final Spring Concert, Gr. 6 & 7 Field Days; Gr. 8 Author/Speaker visits; and finally the Grade 8 Trip to Canobie.

THIS WEEK, we do try to stay focus with finishing up our academics and behaving well. End of year activities continue with the future grade 5 & 6 Explore the Sullivan/Scavenger Hunt night; Grade 8 end of year activities including the grade 8 final dance; Grade 7 field trip and activities and Grade 6 field trips. Grade 8 will have their Moving On Ceremony on Thursday 6/13 at 10 AM in the gym. All grade 8 parents are invited to attend. It will be crowded. See below for specific calendar information regarding activities during this busy time of year. Finally, the last day of school is Friday, June 14. It is an early release. ALL STUDENTS WILL BE DISMISSED AT 12:10 PM.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

1. Please see previously sent email for information about a summer reading night hosted at Family Resource.  Children will receive free books, face painting, and snacks. The event is this Monday 6/10 5:30-7:30.
2. Please take a few minutes to complete the online survey found on the LPS website for our school. Your opinions are valued and important to the continued success of our school. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdth027UAicTIG6qKcDzk3v-XpXOZOOlOIV5ZIs7kI_SBurUQ/viewform?usp=sf_link​

Please see calendar below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Ed Foster

Principal, J. F. Sullivan Middle School

6/3/19

Hello Sullivan Community,

Nine and a half days left….. Can you believe it? Where has the year gone? I want to give a special thanks to the wonderful Sullivan PTO. They replaced the flower pots at the front door and they look great! Much needed and appreciated. THIS PAST WEEK WE HAD A GREAT WEEK. Several of our eighth graders went to Washington D.C. on a field trip. It was great fun indeed. Take a look at the Sullivan website and Facebook page for cool pics. Special thanks to staff chaperones Mr. Valliere and Ms. Galipeau. In addition, we had a very successful Move Up Day where our next year’s grade 5 and 6 students came up to the Sullivan for a tour. Thank you student council and student council advisor, Ms. O’Neill, for providing such high quality tours of the Sullivan for the future Sullivanites. Healthy Futures-Elevate New England finished their work for the year in classrooms on important student health related issues including substance abuse prevention, qualities of a friend, goal setting, and refusal skills. Finally, our grade 8 STEM AA classes flew their drones this past week. It was really cool. I’m glad I know how to duck. Please see our website and Facebook page for pics/videos. A special thanks goes out to Ms. Prentice, Mr. Robichaud and Ms. O’Neill for drone coordination.

THIS WEEK we continue the whir of activity with the PTO Spring Scholastic Book Fair; grade 8 STEM AA drone flying; Final Spring Concert, Gr. 6 & 7 Field Days; Gr. 8 Author/Speaker visits; and the Grade 8 Trip to Canobie. Please see calendar below for specific times and dates.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• The 21st Century After School Program is OVER. There are no more 21st Century after school programs for the remainder of the year. Great year all!
• We STILL have Spring School. THIS WEEK IS THE LAST WEEK OF SPRING SCHOOL which officially ends for all grades/students on Thursday, June 6th. FOR THIS LAST WEEK, Spring School will go from 2:15-3:15 PM on the grade assigned days. STUDENTS WILL NEED TO BE PICKED UP AT 3:15 PM. THERE IS NO BUS TRANSPORTATION. Please call the school if you have any questions.
• Just a reminder... the Sullivan Summer program registrations forms are due to Ms. DaSilva by Monday, June 3rd. The summer program will run from June 24th to July 19th.  Program hours are 7:45-11:15. Our summer staff has come up with eight (8) engaging and fun activities. The program is free and breakfast and lunch will be provided. Transportation is available for students' who qualify. Please, complete both sides of the registration form and the transportation forms which can be found on the website and a previously sent email. Completed registration forms should be placed in the mailbox outside of Ms DaSilva's  classroom on Monday morning.
• ATTENTION GRADE 8 STUDENTS/PARENTS:
  • The Lowell High School Athletic Department is having an informational meeting on June 4th. In this meeting we will go over the registration process as it differs from what many middle school students and families are accustomed to. Those attending will get a chance to meet the athletic office staff as well as many of the fall coaches. Please see following attachment:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pfgp6dCaPR6pC12X-3WWT1l6z2KfW7Y8/view?usp=sharing@ Coaches - Family ID is now open for fall 2019 registration! https://www.familyid.com/organizations/lowell-high-school
  • Grade 8 students who are applying to Upward Bound program need to have all forms that parents need to fill out to Mrs. Dandurant by Tuesday.  They will be picked up on Wednesday.

Please see calendar below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

5/27/19

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a great Memorial Day Weekend…..What beautiful weather we had. A great time for family, friends and remembrance. We had a very exciting week LAST WEEK. Some of our female students will be participated in the Color of Justice field trip with Ms. Dandurant. On this field trip they will visit with judges and lawyers in the justice system to discuss the field and possible career paths. And the much anticipated Sullivan’s Evening at the Theater: Suitcase Stories took place. Professional actors and eighth grade students sharing refugee and immigrant stories. It was at once wonderful and inspirational to hear these stories of their plight and coming to America! Kudos to Dr. Lowe, Ms. McCarthy for organizing this fine Sullivan Community event. And also and our brave and inspiring students, parents and staff who presented: Rodrige Kalambye, Mark Anastopoulos, Alison DaSilva, Aja Gallewale, Narsu Jamina, Nick Hoff, Isis Rivera, Ayman Abdu, and Zainab Abdu

THIS WEEK, we have eighteen of our grade 8 students going on the Washington D.C. field trip chaperoned by Mr. Valliere and Ms. Galipeau. It is sure to be a great time as they explore our nation’s capital. I can’t wait to see the pictures! We will have Move Up Day where our next year’s grade 5 and 6 students will come up to the Sullivan for a tour. Healthy Futures-Elevate New England will finish their work this year in classrooms on important student health related issues including substance abuse prevention, qualities of a friend, goal setting, and refusal skills. And finally, our Sullivan School Council will meet on Thursday after school to review this year and preview next year. A full week planned indeed.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• From Nurse McGrath. A stern reminder. NO MEDICATIONS CAN BE BROUGHT INTO SCHOOL BY STUDENTS. This includes over the counter allergy treatments, aspirin, Tylenol, etc., etc. There are no exceptions to this rule. Please see contact me directly  if you have any questions.
• Dress Code Reminder. Tis the season of short shorts, low cuts, midriffs, etc., etc. There is a lengthy dress code articulated in the LPS Middle School/Elementary School Student Handbook, p. 1-17. Any dress that distracts, disrupts, intimidates, or provokes can be deemed inappropriate by the Principal or his designee. Students are NOT permitted to wear the following to school:

• Transparent or revealing clothing
• Extremely short skirts (including significantly ripped jeans) or shorts.
• Halters, tank tops with narrow straps tube-tops, or excessively low-cut tops or bare midriffs.
• Oversized or sagging clothing (particularly low hanging pants or shorts).
• Any other dress that distracts, disrupts, intimidates or provokes can be deemed inappropriate.

Students violating this policy will be directed to change before being allowed to remain in school. Parents will be called to provide a change of clothing if necessary. Disciplinary measures can result for refusal to change and/or continued dress code violations. (On a side note, I regularly have let us say lively discussions with my own daughters at home before school in the AM on proper dress. Let me know if you need some support in this area. I have no problem with re-affirming this message to the kids……...We must stick together:)

• The Sullivan Spring Concert will take place June 4 from 6-7 PM in the Sullivan School Auditorium. Come one, come all!
• ATTENTION GRADE 8 PARENTS: The Lowell High School Athletic Department is having an informational meeting on June 4th. In this meeting we will go over the registration process as it differs from what many middle school students and families are accustomed to. Those attending will get a chance to meet the athletic office staff as well as many of the fall coaches. Please see following attachment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pfgp6dCaPR6pC12X-3WWT1l6z2KfW7Y8/view?usp=sharing

@ Coaches - Family ID is now open for fall 2019 registration! https://www.familyid.com/organizations/lowell-high-school

• ATTENTION GRADE 4-9 PARENTS---GREAT OPPORTUNITY--IDEA Camp for Summer 2019 is back and better than ever! This year, Lowell's STEM Summer program, IDEA Camp, will be held on the UMASS Lowell Campus. All the popular workshops will be offered and taught by Lowell Public School staff. Students will be working in the college classrooms and laboratories as they create innovative designs and delve into open-ended projects.  We will be holding 11 different, week long, programs that run from 8:30 am-3:00 pm.

Thanks to donations from MA Life Science, Circle Health and Project Learn, we can offer additional scholarships to Lowell students.  The typical cost can be reduced for Lowell residents from 180 dollars for each week to 40 dollars. All camps include lunch and breakfast daily. Workshops include Robotics, Crime Science, Seaperch Underwater Robotics, Video Game Design, Got Dirt -Gardening, Flight, Architecture, You Code Girl -a girls only program-, Carnival Contraptions and Wire Your Bedroom.  

Students currently in grade 4 up to grade 9 are eligible to attend.  Registration can be done online on the Lowell Recreation website or with a paper form from school. For more information such as workshop descriptions and grade level programs, please see the Lowell Public School website.  Link to register IDEA Camp Registration

If you have any questions please email us at IDEACAMP@lowell.k12.ma.us

IDEA Camp Information on the Lowell Website: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/domain/491

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a nice weekend and nice weekend and enjoyed some of the lovely weather. THIS PAST WEEK, formal MCAS testing ended for all students. Great job kids! Grade 6 had their Respect and Responsibility Assembly. Great things happening in the area of academics and behavior. grade 6. And our third quarter High Honors Breakfast took place and we had a wonderful time celebrating these young building leaders.

THIS WEEK, some of our female students will be participating in the Color of Justice field trip with Ms. Dandurant. On this field trip they will visit with judges and lawyers in the justice system to discuss the field and possible career paths. Healthy Futures-Elevate New England will continue work in classroom on important student health related issues including substance abuse prevention, qualities of a friend, goal setting, and refusal skills. Finally, the much anticipated Sullivan’s Evening at the Theater on May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories will present a live theater showcase of professional actors and eighth grade students sharing refugee and immigrant stories. This event is free. There is no admission charge. You can reserve tickets online, using the link on the Sullivan website. You can also find the link on the NEW Sullivan Facebook page: http://www.facebookcom/lpsdsullivan OR Twitter: http://twitter.com/SullivanLPSD OR you can just show up at the door!!!!! Cheryl Hamilton from the International Institute of New England worked with 8th grade students last week to engage students about their own suitcase stories. Short video clips and photos from these workshops can be seen on the Sullivan Facebook page.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• The Sullivan Spring Concert will take place June 4 from 6-7 PM in the Sullivan School Auditorium. Come one, come all!
• ATTENTION GRADE 8 PARENTS: The Lowell High School Athletic Department is having an informational meeting on June 4th. In this meeting we will go over the registration process as it differs from what many middle school students and families are accustomed to. Those attending will get a chance to meet the athletic office staff as well as many of the fall coaches. Please see following attachment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pfgp6dCaPR6pC12X-3WWT1l6z2KfW7Y8/view?usp=sharing

@ Coaches - Family ID is now open for fall 2019 registration! https://www.familyid.com/organizations/lowell-high-school

• ATTENTION GRADE 4-9 PARENTS---GREAT OPPORTUNITY--IDEA Camp for Summer 2019 is back and better than ever! This year, Lowell's STEM Summer program, IDEA Camp, will be held on the UMASS Lowell Campus. All the popular workshops will be offered and taught by Lowell Public School staff. Students will be working in the college classrooms and laboratories as they create innovative designs and delve into open-ended projects.  We will be holding 11 different, week long, programs that run from 8:30 am-3:00 pm. Thanks to donations from MA Life Science, Circle Health and Project Learn, we can offer additional scholarships to Lowell students.  The typical cost can be reduced for Lowell residents from 180 dollars for each week to 40 dollars. All camps include lunch and breakfast daily. Workshops include Robotics, Crime Science, Seaperch Underwater Robotics, Video Game Design, Got Dirt -Gardening, Flight, Architecture, You Code Girl -a girls only program-, Carnival Contraptions and Wire Your Bedroom. Students currently in grade 4 up to grade 9 are eligible to attend.  Registration can be done online on the Lowell Recreation website or with a paper form from school. For more information such as workshop descriptions and grade level programs, please see the Lowell Public School website.  Link to register IDEA Camp Registration. If you have any questions please email us at IDEACAMP@lowell.k12.ma.us. IDEA Camp Information on the Lowell Website: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/domain/491

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

Thank you.

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a nice weekend and nice weekend. Happy Mom’s Day!!!! THIS PAST WEEK, the Sullivan girls and boys volleyball teams finished their season with spirited efforts. Great season kids and thanks again coach Keefe and Lopes. The effort was there in every match. Our sixth and eighth graders worked very hard on their Math MCAS. And we had our Respect & Responsibility Assemblies for grades 7 and 8 where we were able to review behavioral focus areas and celebrate student excellence in academics and behavior. Finally, the week was capped of with a 14-1 Red Sox victory on Friday during Sullivan-Reilly at Fenway Night. I have to think our attendance was the difference maker as the Sox went above 500 for the first time this year with that victory. Thanks to all the kids, parents and staff who attended. It was definitely a magical night for the Sullivan and Reilly School Communities!

THIS WEEK, MCAS resumes with grade 7 Math on Monday and Tuesday and grade 8 Science and Technology on Wednesday and Thursday. PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Thank you. Grade 6 has their Respect and Responsibility Assembly on Monday where we review behavior focus areas and celebrate academic and behavioral excellence. The Sullivan PTO meets on Tuesday at 6-7 PM and on Friday we have our third quarter High Honors Breakfast taking place, invites have been sent. Yes, a busy week planned this week at the Sullivan.  

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• The Sullivan Spring Concert will take place June 4 from 6-7 PM in the Sullivan School Auditorium. Come one, come all!
• Don’t miss Sullivan Evening at the Theater on May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories will present a live theater showcase of professional actors and eighth grade students sharing refugee and immigrant stories. This event is free. There is no admission charge. You can reserve tickets online, using the link on the Sullivan website. You can also find the link on the NEW Sullivan Facebook page: http://www.facebookcom/lpsdsullivan OR Twitter: http://twitter.com/SullivanLPSD OR you can just show up at the door!!!!! Cheryl Hamilton from the International Institute of New England worked with 8th grade students last week to engage students about their own suitcase stories. Short video clips and photos from these workshops can be seen on the Sullivan Facebook page.

• ATTENTION GRADE 4-9 PARENTS---GREAT OPPORTUNITY--IDEA Camp for Summer 2019 is back and better than ever! This year, Lowell STEM Summer program, IDEA Camp, will be held on the UMASS Lowell Campus. All the popular workshops will be offered and taught by Lowell Public School staff. Students will be working in the college classrooms and laboratories as they create innovative designs and delve into open-ended projects.  We will be holding 11 different, week long, programs that run from 8:30 am-3:00 pm. Thanks to donations from MA Life Science, Circle Health and Project Learn, we can offer additional scholarships to Lowell students.  The typical cost can be reduced for Lowell residents from $180 for each week to $40. All camps include lunch and breakfast daily. Workshops include Robotics, Crime Science, Seaperch Underwater Robotics, Video Game Design, Got Dirt -Gardening, Flight, Architecture, You Code Girl -a girls only program-, Carnival Contraptions and Wire Your Bedroom.  Students currently in grade 4 up to grade 9 are eligible to attend.  Registration can be done online on the Lowell Recreation website or with a paper form from school.  For more information such as workshop descriptions and grade level programs, please see the Lowell Public School website.  Link to register IDEA Camp Registration If you have any questions please email us at IDEACAMP@lowell.k12.ma.us IDEA Camp Information on the Lowell Website: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/domain/491

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Ed Foster

Principal, J. F. Sullivan Middle School

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a nice weekend and nice weekend. Thank you so much Sullivan PTO for a wonderful staff appreciation luncheon put on this PAST WEEK …..We feel much appreciated! In addition this past week, our girls and boys volleyball teams kept up their efforts. Super work. Grade 6 did a marvelous job on the MCAS this past week. Super effort kids. Also, to highlight some of the neat things happening, we had some poetry reading take place with Ms. Rothschild’s kids in grade seven….(“snap, snap”). And a kudos goes out to Ms. Mitrano. She set up and coordinated two lawyers and judge to come and talk to our eighth graders about Constitutional Law. As everyone know the one thing that eighth graders can do is argue! We absolutely have some budding lawyers in our midst so be careful what you say……...From what I understand from the discussions with them, I should be expecting to getting a grade 8 subpoena shortly on some grievances on my cell phone policy:) I’m in trouble I think. Stay tuned:) Great things happening!

THIS WEEK, the girls and boys volleyball teams have their final matches away on Tuesday at the Stoklosa and Thursday at the Butler. Both begin with the boys at 4:00 PM and then the girls at 5:00 PM. Go Sullivan! Student spectators are welcome to cheer on the home team but must have a parent for entrance. Our sixth and eighth graders will be doing their Math MCAS on Tuesday (8), Wednesday (8), Thursday (6) and Friday (6). Good luck kids. Do your best. PARENTS, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. And Friday this week culminates with our Respect & Responsibility Assemblies as well as Sullivan at the Red Sox game on Friday night.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• MCAS is here. Testing will occur on various days for various grades between 4-10 to 5-24. Please see website for specific dates/details and PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Thank you.
• The Sullivan community will be collecting money during homeroom for Pennies for Patients for the next two weeks. All money raised through the Pennies for Patients program is donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association.  
• The third quarter Sullivan High Honor Breakfast will take place May 17th from 8-8:30 AM. Invitations will be forthcoming.
• The Sullivan Spring Concert will take place June 4 from 6-7 PM in the Sullivan School Auditorium. Come one, come all!
• Don’t miss Sullivan’s Evening at the Theater on May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories will present a live theater showcase of professional actors and eighth grade students sharing refugee and immigrant stories. This event is free. There is no admission charge.

You can reserve tickets online, using the link on the Sullivan website. You can also find the link on the NEW Sullivan Facebook page: http://www.facebookcom/lpsdsullivan OR Twitter: http://twitter.com/SullivanLPSD OR you can just show up at the door!!!!! Cheryl Hamilton from the International Institute of New England worked with 8th grade students last week to engage students about their own suitcase stories. Short video clips and photos from these workshops can be seen on the Sullivan Facebook page.

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Thank you. 

4/28/19

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a nice weekend and stayed dry with the April showers…..This week we are celebrating Sullivan Staff Appreciation. Our wonderful Sullivan PTO is putting on a staff luncheon this week as a gesture of appreciation. On behalf of the Sullivan Community, THANK YOU SULLIVAN STAFF. You make a difference to the Sullivan kids every day!!!!!!

THIS PAST WEEK, grade seven did a GREAT JOB with MCAS! They took it seriously and worked hard. Now it is grade six’s turn on Monday and Tuesday this week for MCAS ELA. Good luck. I know they will do a great job! Healthy Futures-Elevate New England began working with our students. They met and talked with our kids about substance abuse prevention, qualities of a friend, goals setting and refusal skills. They’ll be continuing class discussions this week. Our girls and boys volleyball team played home matches and did very well. Keep up the good work!!!

THIS WEEK, the girls and boys volleyball teams have matches on Tuesday at the Pyne Arts and Thursday at home versus the Daley. Both begin with the boys at 4:00 PM and then the girls at 5:00 PM. Go Sullivan! For home matches, spectating students need a note for permission to attend from parents with contact number and how the student will be getting home. For away matches, student spectators are welcome to cheer on the home team but must have a parent for entrance. Our sixth graders will be doing their ELA MCAS on Monday and Tuesday. Good luck grade 6. Do your best. PARENTS, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Finally, ON WEDNESDAY, 5/1 WE HAVE AN EARLY RELEASE. ALL STUDENTS WILL BE DISMISSED AT 12:10 PM.

 OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• MCAS is here. Testing will occur on various days for various grades between 4-10 to 5-24. Please see website for specific dates/details and PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Thank you.
• This is from Mr. Matt Stahl, principal of the Wang M.S. Attention Lowell parents. On May 1st at 6 PM in the Wang M.S. auditorium there will be a FREE original documentary screening for parents entitled: ANGST, RAISING AWARENESS AROUND ANXIETY. PLEASE SEE FLIER ON WEBSITE for details.
• The Sullivan Community will be collecting money during homeroom for Pennies for Patients for the next two weeks. All money raised through the Pennies for Patients program is donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association.  
• This is from one of our grade 8 students. Please see attached document on my email for Steps for a Cure awareness walk on 6/1.
• COMING SOON…..A LIVE THEATER EVENT IS COMING TO THE SULLIVAN SCHOOL!!!!! Suitcase Stories, a COMMUNITY SHOWCASE featuring foreign and US-born residents sharing refugee and immigrant stories, will be at the Sullivan School on Thursday, May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories has been featured on PBS television and in live theater throughout the Boston area. This program is free. THERE IS NO ADMISSION CHARGE. Tickets are being offered to Sullivan School students and their families before being offered to the general public. You will be able to RESERVE TICKETS ONLINE or with a registration form. The online link will be posted on the Sullivan Website beginning Tuesday, April 9. A flyer and registration form will be sent home with your student on Tuesday, April 9. Students attending this program must be accompanied by an adult. Cool Stuff!!!!!!!

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Ed Foster

Principal, J. F. Sullivan Middle School

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you all had a nice break. Hard to believe that it will be May after next week. As of this writing, there are only 39 days of school left with the last day being Friday, 6-14-19. Please know two things. First, the end of the year is FILLED with events and activities as we try to jam everything in and plan neat end-of-year activities-events for the kids. Please check this space and the school calendar regularly. Also, this time is sure to fly by so buckle up!

THIS WEEK, Healthy Futures-Elevate New England begins working with our students. They will be meeting and talking with our kids about substance abuse prevention, qualities of a friend, goals setting and refusal skills. Our girls and boys volleyball team will be playing home matches at the Sullivan vs Bartlett on Tuesday and the Robinson on Thursday. Both begin with the boys at 4:00 PM and then the girls at 5:00 PM. Go Sullivan! For home matches, spectating students need a note for permission to attend from parents with contact number and how the student will be getting home. Finally, our seventh graders will be doing their ELA MCAS on Thursday and Friday. Good luck grade 7. Do your best. PARENTS, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS.

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN-DISTRICT:

• MCAS is here. Testing will occur on various days for various grades between 4-10 to 5-24. Please see website for specific dates/details and PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Thank you.
• This is from Mr. Matt Stahl, principal of the Wang M.S. Attention Lowell parents. On May 2nd at 6 PM in the Wang M.S. auditorium there will be a FREE original documentary screening for parents entitled: ANGST, RAISING AWARENESS AROUND ANXIETY. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED FLIER-FLIER ON WEBSITE for details
• Grade 8 students brought home a letter-signature page the Friday before break regarding the annual grade 8 end-of-year activities as Sullivan eighth graders close out their time at the Sullivan before going off to high school. It is an exciting and fun-filled time of year for grade 8 students and staff. Be advised that these activities are an honor-privilege that must be earned. Grade 8 students are expected to finish off the year strong both academically AND behaviorally to participate in end of year activities including the final moving on ceremony. Failure to do so will result in students not participating in these events. I know you will do a great job. Grade 8 parents, please review this letter with your child and thank you for your support.  
• COMING SOON. A LIVE THEATER EVENT IS COMING TO THE SULLIVAN SCHOOL! Suitcase Stories, a COMMUNITY SHOWCASE featuring foreign and US-born residents sharing refugee and immigrant stories, will be at the Sullivan School on Thursday, May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories has been featured on PBS television and in live theater throughout the Boston area. This program is free. THERE IS NO ADMISSION CHARGE. Tickets are being offered to Sullivan School students and their families before being offered to the general public. You will be able to RESERVE TICKETS ONLINE or with a registration form. The online link will be posted on the Sullivan Website beginning Tuesday, April 9. A flyer and registration form will be sent home with your student on Tuesday, April 9. Students attending this program must be accompanied by an adult. Cool Stuff!

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Ed Foster

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend and enjoyed some of this fantastic weather. It appears spring has sprung which is wonderful as we edge ever so closer to April Break. THIS PAST WEEK, our very own Sullivan March Madness 3 on 3 basketball tourney culminated on Thursday. It was a great time had by all. Students, players and spectators, were very well behaved. Thank you grade 8 teachers for organizing and supervising the event. Grade 8 went to Lowell Mills on a field trip. The school committee also decided that next year we are returning to a gr. 5-8 middle school model (as opposed to a 6-8 which we were this year). Looking forward to planning some transition activities this spring for next year’s fifth grades. Stay tuned. 

THIS WEEK is a busy week at the Sullivan. Our grade 8 students who are going on a field trip to Washington D.C. this May will have their final mandatory meeting @ 6:30 PM at the Wang. The excitement is building. What a great opportunity. Grade 7 will be going on their field trip to Lowell Mills this week. Good luck grade 7. The Red Sox home opener is Tuesday. The Sullivan School Council has deemed Tuesday Red Sox Day at the Sullivan. All Sullivan students and staff are encouraged to wear their Red Sox garb or colors-red, white and blue. Go Sox! We have TWO volleyball games this week….Tuesday at the Sullivan v. Wang M.S. and Thursday at the Rogers. Both begin with the boys at 4:00 PM and then the girls at 5:00 PM. Go Sullivan! For home matches, spectating students need a note for permission to attend from parents with contact number and how the student will be getting home. For away matches, students can only attend with a parent. The Sullivan PTO will have its monthly meeting on Tuesday in the library at 6:00 PM. Grade 8 ELA MCAS will take place Wednesday and Thursday this week. Please see MCAS information below. Finally, on Friday we will have our Respect and Responsibility Assemblies. Yes, a busy week at the Sullivan this week as we hurtle towards April Break. .

OTHER IMPORTANT MESSAGES FROM THE SULLIVAN/DISTRICT:

• MCAS is here. Testing will occur on various days for various grades between 4/10-5/24. Please see website for specific dates/details and PLEASE REFRAIN FROM TAKING YOUR CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL ON TESTING DAYS. Thank you.
• COMING SOON…..A LIVE THEATER EVENT IS COMING TO THE SULLIVAN SCHOOL!!!!! Suitcase Stories, a COMMUNITY SHOWCASE featuring foreign and US-born residents sharing refugee and immigrant stories, will be at the Sullivan School on Thursday, May 23 from 6-8 pm. Suitcase Stories has been featured on PBS television and in live theater throughout the Boston area. This program is free. THERE IS NO ADMISSION CHARGE. Tickets are being offered to Sullivan School students and their families before being offered to the general public. You will be able to RESERVE TICKETS ONLINE or with a registration form. The online link will be posted on the Sullivan Website beginning Tuesday, April 9. A flyer and registration form will be sent home with your student on Tuesday, April 9. Students attending this program must be accompanied by an adult. Cool Stuff!!!!!!!
• From the LPS Family Resource Center. Attention parents with a pre-Kindergartener who will be a Kindergartner next year. You must come to Family Resource and enroll your child for kindergarten as soon as possible. Enrollment ends on April 30th.
• School Environment/Climate: As we continue to strive to create a welcoming, warm, academic and distraction-free Sullivan School environment/climate, we continue to work with the kids on the following: In classrooms and the halls, there are NO CELL PHONES ON STUDENTS, HOODS ON and COATS ON. These are similar rules to other middle schools in Lowell and across the Commonwealth. Specific reasons for these rules vary, but basically they are in place again to create a welcoming, warm, academic and distraction-free Sullivan School environment/climate. Parents are asked to discuss this with their children and support the school in their child’s compliance with these directives. Student disciplinary measures can/will be initiated for non compliance with these rules. Please contact me if  you have any questions. Thank you for your support.

Please see below for IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Thank you. Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Ed Foster