Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice and restful long weekend. LAST WEEK we had our monthly grade level Respect and Responsibility Assemblies where we acknowledged the fine work behaviorally and academically by our students. Nice work kids. Also, our Sullivan X-Country kids did a great job again leading the way at the LPS Middle School Cross Country Meet. Nice work kids. Please see 

For THIS WEEK AND BEYOND…. 

• Monthly Sullivan PTO Meeting, Wednesday 10/16 @ 6 PM in the Sullivan Library. In this meeting the PTO will be reviewing/planning the many things they do to support the Sullivan kids and mission. In addition, there will be a discussion related to last week’s behavioral incident and safety measures implemented at the Sullivan School to ensure the safety of our students. All Sullivan parents are welcome to attend.
• Sullivan X-Country next meet is after school on Thursday, 10/17 at Shedd Park. Runners should report to coaches at Shedd Park at 3:45 PM. Race beings around 4:15 PM. Go Huskies!
• Student picture day is Friday, October 18th. 
• 21st Century After School Program Update. Students who have been selected to attend the after school program will receive letters this week. Students who submitted forms and did not get selected will be placed on a waitlist and will be notified when spots open up Program starts on 10/21/19. 
• Attention Hispanic Parents: FYI. From the Lowell Public Schools regarding Hispanic Heritage Month: We will be  celebrating Hispanic Heritage month in October.  We have planned a great parent conference that will be held on Saturday, October 19th, 9:30 AM - 2 PM. LHS Cafeteria.  This is our third one. Last year’s conference was a great success. We hope that this year,  it will be even better. The conference will be in English and Spanish. Here is the rsvp/registration for the Latino parents conference: https://conta.cc/2kS7Tfl. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/506862273220609. Please see attached flier as well.
• Attention Grade 8 Parents: Attached/On the website is a fliers which contains information regarding Lowell High School upcoming LHS Open House for Lowell eighth graders on Sunday, October 27, 2019, 11:30-2 PM. Irish Auditorium. Lowell, H.S. This is a great event to get you and your eighth grader to begin to think about next year. 
• Book Nook Birthday Party Event November 5, 5:30-7:30 PM, The Family Resource Center, 151 Merrimack St. The Family Resource Center will be hosting its annual Book Nook event. Free books and fun!  

 

 

IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/16	Sullivan PTO Meeting	6:00 PM / Library
10/17	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close
11/1	Grade 8 Voke Field Trip	8:45-11 AM / Voke
11/4	Grade level Respect & Responsibility Assemblies
11/5	NO SCHOOL. (Election Day)
11/6	School Portrait Make Ups
11/7	Sullivan School Council Meeting	2:30 PM / Sullivan Library

 

 

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend and enjoyed some of this fabulous weather again. Great Fun Run today at the Reilly/Sullivan and surrounding neighborhood. A great time had by all….parents…..staffs….administrators…..and mostly the kids. Super job and super job by the Sullivan and Reilly PTO’s. It takes a village….

LAST WEEK, our Sullivan X-Country kids did a great job. We had high placements for both girls and boys and also had a #1 and #3 in the girls. Some great bragging material for me to my fellow Lowell administrators. Yes!

For THIS WEEK AND BEYOND…. 

• Early Release this week on Wednesday 10/9. ALL SULLIVAN STUDENT WILL BE DISMISSED AT 12:10 PM.
• Sullivan X-Country next meet is after school on Thursday, 10/10 at Shedd Park. Runners should report to coaches at Shedd Park at 3:45 PM. Race beings around 4:15 PM. Go Huskies!
• Attention Hispanic Parents: FYI. From the Lowell Public Schools regarding Hispanic Heritage Month: We will be  celebrating Hispanic Heritage month in October.  We have planned a great parent conference that will be held on Saturday, October 19th, 9:30 AM - 2 PM. LHS Cafeteria.  This is our third one. Last year’s conference was a great success. We hope that this year,  it will be even better. The conference will be in English and Spanish. Here is the rsvp/registration for the Latino parents conference: https://conta.cc/2kS7Tfl. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/506862273220609. Please see attached flier as well.
• Attention Grade 8 Parents: Attached/On the website is a fliers which contains information regarding Lowell High School upcoming LHS Open House for Lowell eighth graders on Sunday, October 27, 2019, 11:30-2 PM. Irish Auditorium. Lowell, H.S. This is a great event to get you and your eighth grader to begin to think about next year. 

IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
10/9	Early Release/PD	12:15-3:15 PM / Library
10/10	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/14	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/16	Sullivan PTO Meeting	6:00 PM / Library
10/17	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

 

Have a great day!

Ed Foster

Sullivan M.S. Principal

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend and enjoyed some of this fabulous weather again. 

THIS PAST WEEK, the Sullivan go some great pub in the Lowell Sun for the students in Ms. Kinney’s and Ms. Broadhurst’s rooms. Organized by Mr. Thompson, the kids sent letters to the student victims of the fires this past year in Paradise, CA. Take a peek at the article link:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.lowellsun.com/2019/09/20/lowell-middle-school-students-send-cards-to-paradise-ca/amp/

For THIS WEEK AND BEYOND…. 

• Sullivan X-Country next meet is after school on Thursday, 10/3 at Shedd Park. Runners should report to coaches at Shedd Park at 3:45 PM. Race beings around 4:15 PM. Go Huskies!
• Don’t forget that this upcoming Sunday (10/6) is the Sullivan/Reilly Fun Run from 8:30 AM-12 noon. Whether you participate in one of the races/runs, help out on the course or just enjoy cheering on our runners, it is a GREAT community event for the Sullivan/Reilly Campus. Hope to see you there. I’ll have my running shoes on. See Sullivan website below for details:

https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=15&ModuleInstanceID=818&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=7006&PageID=23

• 21st Century After School Program. Fliers went out this past Friday with students to bring home to parents. Please return ASAP if you want your child to be considered for this wonderful program. First come, First serve. 
• Attention Hispanic Parents: FYI. From the Lowell Public Schools regarding Hispanic Heritage Month: We will be  celebrating Hispanic Heritage month in October.  We have planned a great parent conference that will be held on Saturday, October 19th, 9:30 AM - 2 PM. LHS Cafeteria.  This is our third one. Last year’s conference was a great success. We hope that this year,  it will be even better. The conference will be in English and Spanish. Here is the rsvp/registration for the Latino parents conference: https://conta.cc/2kS7Tfl. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/506862273220609. Please see attached flier as well.
• Attention Grade 8 Parents: Attached/On the website is a fliers which contains information regarding Lowell High School upcoming LHS Open House for Lowell eighth graders on Sunday, October 27, 2019, 11:30-2 PM. Irish Auditorium. Lowell, H.S. This is a great event to get you and your eighth grader to begin to think about next year. 

IMPORTANT HEALTH INFORMATION: VAPING AND VAPING PRODUCTS. 

You may have seen in recent months in society an increased usage of “vaping” products by citizens but especially young teens. Like most middle and high schools, we have seen an increasing number of students found with these items in school. Last week, Governor Baker declared a public health emergency and ordered a four month ban on the sale of all vaping products in Massachusetts due in part to a significant health risk found occurring in young teens who use the product. It now is absolutely at the forefront of societal discussion which is a good thing. Through this discussion, I am sure we will be learning about the risks and will be responding accordingly as a community, school system and school. That said, for the Sullivan currently, it is important to know the following information:

• Student possession and/or usage of vaping products is an expressed VIOLATION OF SCHOOL RULES (See handbook for details.). If a student is found to possess and/or use vaping products in school, on school grounds or at school functions, such actions can RESULT IN A STUDENT BEING BARRED FROM SCHOOL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS TEAMS) AND EVENTS AND/OR CAN ALSO RESULT IN FURTHER DISCIPLINARY ACTION INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SUSPENSION. 
• We have already had one monthly grade level assembly in September where we began the discussion of the dangers of vaping and the related school rules (and consequences). We will be continuing this discussion with students in future monthly assemblies. 
• I have instructed our new Allied Arts Health teacher (Ms. Farley) to have a running theme of vaping products and their dangers throughout the year as part of her set Health curriculum. By the end of the year, ALL Sullivan students will have had discussion in their Health classes regarding this topic.
• Our Social Worker (Mr. Thompson) is organizing professional speakers to come to the Sullivan to talk in depth with kids and parents regarding this topic. Stay tuned. 

Be assured, we at the Sullivan are taking this topic very seriously as not only an infraction of school rules but as a significant health concern to our kids. More information will be forthcoming. Please contact me if you have any questions. 

IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
10/3	First Quarter Progress Reports
10/3	Sullivan X-Country	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/6	Reilly/Sullivan 5K Fun Run	8:30-12 / Sullivan and Reilly Grounds
10/9	Early Release/PD	12:15-3:15 PM / Library
10/10	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/14	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/16	Sullivan PTO Meeting	6:00 PM / Library
10/17	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

Sincerely,

Ed Foster, J. F. Sullivan Middle School Principal

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend and enjoyed some of this fabulous weather. Outstanding showing LAST WEEK at the Open House. We high number (compared to year’s past) of parents and kids come, enjoy the pizza at the “Back to School” picnic and visit the teachers and classrooms. We appreciate it as it truly “takes a village.” A special thanks to the PTO for funding much of and organizing the picnic and to Roma’s for giving us a great deal. In addition, our Girls and Boys Cross Country Team faired extremely well at their first meet last week. Go Sullivan Huskies!!!!

THIS WEEK, a few reminders:  

• NO SCHOOL ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH.
• Sullivan X-Country next meet is after school on Thursday, 9/26 at Shedd Park. Runners should report to coaches at Shedd Park at 3:45 PM. Race beings around 4:15 PM. Go Huskies!
• From the “Band Guy” (Mr. Buckley): The Umass Lowell String Project provides string orchestra classes to students grade 3 through grade 12 in the Lowell and Greater Lowell areas. All students are eligible to participate! Click this link to learn more about the program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDrPUFxCtU0&feature =youtu.be or contact Allyn McCourt, Executive Director, for more information: allyn_mccourt@uml.edu.​
• 21st Century After School Program. We started a “robust” after school program last year as part of the 21st Century Grant and will continue this year. Sullivan students who participate will have an opportunity to enroll for the entire school year and attend 2 days after school per week with a snack; homework time; and participate in activities like art, drama, fitness, chess club, theater, STEM, Robotics….  We are also excited to kick off our NASA Project! We were one of 20 schools in Massachusetts selected to participate in the NASA project. Students will be given the opportunity to solve a real world NASA design challenge and interact with NASA engineers..we are super excited to begin our project!!! Finally, there is even bus transportation home. We’ll likely be starting after school programming in mid-October. Fliers are being sent out  this week. Be on the look out. 

 IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
9/24	NO SCHOOL. Municipal Election
9/26	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/3	First Quarter Progress Reports
10/3	Sullivan X-Country	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/6	Reilly/Sullivan 5K Fun Run	8:30-12 / Sullivan and Reilly Grounds
10/9	Early Release/PD (paras included)	12:15-3:15 PM / Library
10/10	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/14	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/17	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

 

 

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend. Great first full week this past week! We are getting back into the school groove. A couple of important events for this week and beyond:

• Wednesday 9/18 is an EARLY RELEASE. ALL STUDENTS WILL BE DISMISSED AT 12:10 PM.
• The Sullivan OPEN HOUSE/BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY PICNIC will take place on Thursday 9/19 from 6-7:30 PM. This will be a great event where parents and students (and family members) are encouraged to attend. From 6-6:30 PM our fabulous PTO will be serving pizza (first slice free; $1 per slice thereafter) and water. After, from 6:30-7:30 parents will be able to visit their student’s classroom and teachers for an overview. Please see flier sent home (and posted on the Sullivan Website) for details. 
• Sullivan X-Country first meet is after school on Thursday, 9/19 at Shedd Park. Runners should report to coaches at Shedd Park at 3:45 PM Go Huskies!
• NO SCHOOL ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH.

 Other important school notes:

• 21st Century After School Program. We started a “robust” after school program last year as part of the 21st Century Grant and will continue this year. Sullivan students who participate will have an opportunity to enroll for the entire school year and attend 2 days after school per week with a snack; homework time; and participate in activities like art, drama, fitness, chess club, theater, STEM, Robotics….  We are also excited to kick off our NASA Project! We were one of 20 schools in Massachusetts selected to participate in the NASA project. Students will be given the opportunity to solve a real world NASA design challenge and interact with NASA engineers..we are super excited to begin our project!!! Finally, there is even bus transportation home. We’ll likely be starting after school programming in mid-October. Stay tuned for sign up fliers!
• From Mr. Buckley (“The Band Guy”). Instrument Rental Night is Thursday, September 19 from 6-8pm at the Butler School? It's a good place to rent an instrument if kids need an instrument to join Band.
• From our fabulous PTO. Thanks to all who attended our first PTO Meeting this past week. We had a great showing! Some things to keep in mind:
• Register for the Reilly/Sullivan 5K & Fun Run online or turn in your paper registration by this Wednesday, Sept 18, in order to get your free race t-shirt.
• Yankee Candle Fundraiser order forms are due this Friday, September 20.

IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
9/18	Early Release/PD	12:15-2:15 PM / Library
9/19	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
9/19	Sullivan Open House / Back to School Picnic	6-7:30 PM / Sullivan
9/24	NO SCHOOL. Municipal Election
9/26	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/3	First Quarter Progress Reports
10/3	Sullivan X-Country	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/6	Reilly/Sullivan 5K Fun Run	8:30-12 / Sullivan and Reilly Grounds
10/9	Early Release/PD (paras included)	12:15-3:15 PM / Library
10/10	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/14	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/17	Sullivan X-Country Meet	(3:45) 4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

 

 

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a nice weekend. Nice week last week as we start this first full week. Kids (and adults) are settling in nicely. 

A couple of important events on the horizon. Our FIRST PTO MEETING is this Wednesday, 9/11 from 6-7 in the Sullivan library. All Sullivan parents are welcome to attend as we discuss and plan ways to enrich the Sullivan School experience for our kids. Come one, come all. In addition, The Sullivan OPEN HOUSE/BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY PICNIC will take place on Thursday 9/19 from 6-7:30 PM. This will be a great event where parents and students (and family members) are encouraged to attend. From 6-6:30 PM our fabulous PTO will be serving pizza (first slice free; $1 per slice thereafter) and water. After, from 6:30-7:30 parents will be able to visit their student’s classroom and teachers for an overview. Please see flier sent home (and posted on the Sullivan Website) for details. 

Other important school notes:

• The Sullivan X-Country sign up sheets went out last week. The X-Country seasons starts next week. Please return forms to Mr. Sheehan in order to participate.
• 21st Century After School Program. We started a “robust” after school program last year as part of the 21st Century Grant and will continue this year. Sullivan students who participate will have an opportunity to enroll for the entire school year and attend 2 days after school per week with a snack; homework time; and participate in activities like art, drama, fitness, chess club, theater, STEM, Robotics….  We are also excited to kick off our NASA Project! We were one of 20 schools in Massachusetts selected to participate in the NASA project. Students will be given the opportunity to solve a real world NASA design challenge and interact with NASA engineers..we are super excited to begin our project!!! Finally, there is even bus transportation home. We’ll likely be starting after school programming in mid-October. Stay tuned for sign up fliers!
• We are looking for a Sullivan Parent Liaison. Please go onto the district site (Human Resources) to apply. Some information below:
• Responsibilities include working with Sullivan staff and PTO to better the school experience for students and families; record keeping, organizing school events; dissemination of parent information; parent outreach; Etc. See application on website for details.   
• 15-18 hours per week (flexible)
• $15 per hour
• Spanish speaking preferred

IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
9/9-12	Hearing and Vision Screenings	All day / Nurses Office
9/11	PTO Meeting	6-7 PM / Library
9/18	Early Release/PD	12:15-2:15 PM / Library
9/19	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
9/19	Sullivan Open House / Back to School Picnic	6-7:30 PM / Sullivan
9/24	NO SCHOOL. Municipal Election
9/26	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/3	First Quarter Progress Reports
10/3	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/6	Reilly/Sullivan 5K Fun Run	8:30-12 / Sullivan and Reilly Grounds
10/9	Early Release/PD (paras included)	12:15-3:15 PM / Library
10/10	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/14	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/17	Sullivan X-Country	4:15-5:15/Shedd Park
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

 

Hello Sullivan Community,

I hope you had a restful Labor Day weekend. What a wonderful opening week we had last week. The school looks great, the staff ready and the kids have been wonderful. The Sullivan was a great place to be last week. Expecting the same for week two. 

A few points of note, I will be posting my Principal’s Blog weekly to let you know the Sullivan “goings on.” Please visit the Sullivan Website (https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Domain/15) regularly for details. I will also be sending an email weekly and calling in a voice message at times, usually on Sunday afternoons to get the Sullivan word out. 

It has been wonderful to be your school leader over the last two years. I know there have been a lot of changes, with staff, room configurations, AA adds of Health and Drama, grade 5 returning (Yay!), etc., etc. We are all working together to provide an optimum learning experience for our students. They deserve it. 

In my time at the Sullivan I’ve learned it to be a diverse and exciting community of caring, smart and energetic students, staff students. I have also learned, above everything, from working with all of you that we need to continue to improve/enhance the school climate at the Sullivan as well as increase the “rigor and relevance” of our academic studies for ALL. Our instructional Leadership Team (ILT) is working with various Sullivan groups (staff, parents, school council, students) and developed over the past several months developed a Turn-Around Plan for the Sullivan to focus our efforts on improvement. More information on this topic will be forthcoming. 

I appreciate in advance your support in helping to fulfill these important goals for our students. It truly does “Take a Village.” WE do it TOGETHER! And SAVE THE DATE: The Sullivan OPEN HOUSE/BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY PICNIC will take place on Thursday 9/19 from 6-7:30 PM. More information to follow. 

Below are a few IMPORTANT UPCOMING SCHOOL DATES. Please check the website regularly for ADDS/SUBTRACTIONS/CHANGES. 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
9/9-10, 12	Hearing and Vision Screenings	All day / Nurses Office
9/11	FIRST PTO Meeting	6-7 PM / Library
9/18	Early Release	12:10 PM
9/19	Sullivan Open House / Back to School Family Picnic	6-7:30 PM / Sullivan
10/3	First Quarter Progress Reports
10/6	Reilly/Sullivan 5K Fun Run	8:30-12 / Sullivan and Reilly Grounds
10/9	Early Release	12:10 PM
10/8	NO SCHOOL: Columbus Day
10/15, 16, 17	Gr. 5 Field Trip	All day x 2 classes each day / Concord Museum
10/18	Student Portraits	TBA / Auditorium
10/31	Quarter 1 Marks Close

 

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

• Student/Family Documents: ALL Sullivan Parents should have received four documents to fill out and sign: 
  • James F. Sullivan School Emergency Forms
  • Emergency Form (Medical, Nurse)
  • Parent/Guardian Student Handbook Signature
  • FILLING THESE FORMS OUT AND RETURNING THEM ASAP IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION.

• 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. 
• 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.
• Please visit our website for more information about arrival and dismissal. 

 

• 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. 

 

I hope that you had an enjoyable long weekend. I’ll see you around the Sullivan campus! 

 

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: 

DAY/DATE	EVENT	TIME/LOCATION
Thursday, August 22nd	Lowell Public Schools “Back to School” Block Party	3:30-6:30 PM / JFK Plaza @ City Hall, 50 Arcand Drive
Friday, August 23rd	Sullivan M.S. 2019-2020 HOMEROOMS POSTED	7PM / Sullivan School (back door windows). The lists will remain for viewing over the weekend and into the following week.
Tuesday, August 27th	FIRST DAY BACK FOR STUDENTS. YAHOO!!!!	7:20AM / Sullivan
Friday, August 30th	NO SCHOOL-Start of Labor Day Recess
Monday, September 2nd	NO SCHOOL-Labor Day

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:

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
6/10	R&R Assemblies
6/10	Explore the Sullivan Night/Scavenger Hunt for incoming gr. 5 and 6 families	5:30-6:30 PM / Sullivan
6/10	Gr. 8 Final Dance	6-9 PM / Mount Pleasant Golf Club
6/11	Gr. 6 JayGees Field Trip	9:30-1:30 PM / JayGees
6/11	Gr. 8 Movie Field Trip	9:30-12:30 PM / Movies
6/11	Gr. 8 Cook Out	12:30-1:30 PM / Outside
6/12	Gr. 7 Kimball’s Field Trip	9-1:30 PM / Kimballs
6/12	Gr. 8 Bowling Field Trip	10:30-12:00 / Brunswick Lanes
6/13	Gr. 8 Moving On Ceremony	10-11 AM / Gym
6/13	Gr. 6 Field Trip to Shedd Park	9-1 PM / Shedd Park
6/13	Gr. 7 Koana Truck	12:30-1:30 PM / Outside
6/14	ER / Last Day of School	Student Dismissal-12:10 PM

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:

 

DATE	ACTIVITY	TIME / LOCATION
6/3-6/10	Scholastic Book Fair	All week / Library
6/4	Sullivan Spring Concert	6 PM / Auditorium
6/5	Gr. 6 Field Day	7:45-10:45 AM/Outside/Gym
6/6	Gr. 6 Field Day -Rain date-	7:45-10:45 AM/Outside/Gym
6/7	Gr. 7 Field Day -Rain or Shine-	7:50-10:59 AM/Outside/Gym
6/7	Gr. 8 Canobie Lake Field Trip	7:45 AM-3:30 PM / Canobie
6/10	R&R Assemblies
6/10	Explore the Sullivan Night/Scavenger Hunt for incoming gr. 5 and 6 families	5:30-6:30 PM / Sullivan
6/10	Gr. 8 Final Dance	6-9 PM / Mount Pleasant Golf Club
6/11	Gr. 6 JayGees Field Trip	9:30-1:30 PM / JayGees
6/11	Gr. 8 Movie Field Trip	9:30-12:30 PM / Movies
6/11	Gr. 8 Cook Out	12:30-1:30 PM / Outside
6/12	Gr. 7 Kimball’s Field Trip	9-1:30 PM / Kimballs
6/12	Gr. 8 Bowling Field Trip	10:30-12:00 / Brunswick Lanes
6/13	Gr. 8 Moving On Ceremony	10-11 AM / Gym
6/13	Gr. 6 Field Trip to Shedd Park	9-1 PM / Shedd Park
6/13	Gr. 7 Koana Truck	12:30-1:30 PM / Outside
6/14	ER / Last Day of School	Student Dismissal-12:10 PM

Thank you. Have a nice evening.