NEWS
Holden Thanksgiving Celebration
November 25, 2008Thanksgiving was celebrated at the Holden School on Tuesday, November 25th with students, staff, family, friends and advisory committee members. Turkey, vegetables and dessert were donated by Johnnie's Foodmaster, to whom we are very thankful. A wonderful meal was prepared and cooked by students and staff, and enjoyed by all in attendance. A Gratitude Tree that decorated the corridor was filled with leaves that expressed the things students and staff are grateful for.
Jordan Brand Awards $1 Million to America's Unsung Educational Heroes
November 14, 2008
COMPASS-Administered Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program gives annual grants to teachers nationwide.
Jordan Brand, a division of Nike, Inc., today announced that through its Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program it is recognizing close to 300 educators nationwide for their outstanding achievements and contributions in the classroom. This year, the Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program will award $1 million in total grants for the 2008-2009 school year to aid teachers working in grades K-12 in underserved communities. These grants provide the resources necessary for instructional creativity and enhance curriculum development.
"Jordan Fundamentals was designed to honor educators across America by providing financial support to their schools," says Keith Houlemard, Jordan Brand President. &uqot;Our committed educators pave the way for the future of this country due to their unwavering commitment to their students and their communities by providing the best education possible to every student that enters their classrooms."
The Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program acknowledges and provides financial support to teachers who endeavor to overcome challenges and limited resources in order to achieve excellence through instructional creativity, innovative teaching and high learning expectations for students. Since 1999, the Jordan Fundamentals program has presented more than $9 million in financial aid to public secondary school teachers where at least 50 percent of the student body population is eligible for the free or reduced lunch program.
"Jordan Fundamentals allows teachers the opportunity to bring fresh ideas and innovative programs into the classrooms," said Tim Anderson of Chicago's May Community Academy and 2008-2009 Jordan Fundamentals grant recipient. "It is through these grants that we can inspire children to awaken their appetite for learning by gaining access to books, supplies and resources that have previously been out of reach to these deserving children."
For the list of grant recipients and more information about the Jordan Fundamentals program, please visit www.jordanfundamentals.com.
Jordan Fundamentals is a grant program managed by COMPASS Consulting Services. The program was established by Michael Jordan and Nike, Inc. to recognize outstanding teaching and instructional creativity in public schools that serve economically disadvantaged students.
Jordan Brand, a division of Nike, Inc., today announced that through its Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program it is recognizing close to 300 educators nationwide for their outstanding achievements and contributions in the classroom. This year, the Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program will award $1 million in total grants for the 2008-2009 school year to aid teachers working in grades K-12 in underserved communities. These grants provide the resources necessary for instructional creativity and enhance curriculum development.
"Jordan Fundamentals was designed to honor educators across America by providing financial support to their schools," says Keith Houlemard, Jordan Brand President. &uqot;Our committed educators pave the way for the future of this country due to their unwavering commitment to their students and their communities by providing the best education possible to every student that enters their classrooms."
The Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program acknowledges and provides financial support to teachers who endeavor to overcome challenges and limited resources in order to achieve excellence through instructional creativity, innovative teaching and high learning expectations for students. Since 1999, the Jordan Fundamentals program has presented more than $9 million in financial aid to public secondary school teachers where at least 50 percent of the student body population is eligible for the free or reduced lunch program.
"Jordan Fundamentals allows teachers the opportunity to bring fresh ideas and innovative programs into the classrooms," said Tim Anderson of Chicago's May Community Academy and 2008-2009 Jordan Fundamentals grant recipient. "It is through these grants that we can inspire children to awaken their appetite for learning by gaining access to books, supplies and resources that have previously been out of reach to these deserving children."
For the list of grant recipients and more information about the Jordan Fundamentals program, please visit www.jordanfundamentals.com.
Jordan Fundamentals is a grant program managed by COMPASS Consulting Services. The program was established by Michael Jordan and Nike, Inc. to recognize outstanding teaching and instructional creativity in public schools that serve economically disadvantaged students.
Holden Haunted Hallway Tricks and Treats Warren-Prescott School Kids
October 31, 2008
Holden School's annual Haunted Hallway event for Halloween was better than ever this year! Thanks to donations from CVS,
Johnnie's Foodmaster, Hood Ice Cream and Necco Candy there were plenty of treats to go around. Thanks to the great work
of the school's students and staff there were plenty of tricks also. The hallway was wonderfully scary and the games
and treats were great fun. As part of Holden's Halloween tradition, Holden School invited or neighbors, students
in grades K through 5 at the Warren-Prescott School in Charlestown, who came, class by class, to enjoy the festivities.
To quote the Kindergarten teacher: "I just wanted to share with you and your staff what a GREAT Halloween Haunted House you put on for all the students at the Warren-Prescott School. The Kindergardners were talking about it the whole week leading up to it and really enjoyed the Haunted House plus the ice cream, candy and other treats you provided for them."
To quote the Kindergarten teacher: "I just wanted to share with you and your staff what a GREAT Halloween Haunted House you put on for all the students at the Warren-Prescott School. The Kindergardners were talking about it the whole week leading up to it and really enjoyed the Haunted House plus the ice cream, candy and other treats you provided for them."
COMPASS School Trip to Philadelphia
October 27, 2008Four students and two staff went on the second annual trip to historic Philadelphia. Students earned their place on the trip by achieving Steps in the BEAMS behavioural management system and by maintaining passing grades during the quarter. During the trip students visited the African American History Museum, the Mutter Medical Museum, the Franklin Institute of Science, and the University of Pennsylvania (UPENN). Students got really excited visiting the Haunted House at Eastern State Penitentiary. While in Philadelphia students enjoyed cheese steaks, saw the Liberty Bell and visited Independence Hall. It was a fun and exciting trtip for staff and students alike.
September was a busy and happy month at the Holden School! The month started with the second annual Scavenger Hunt which
took students and staff all over the neighborhood in their effort to find clues such as historical monuments,
smiling elderly people, and extremely small cars. This event helps students and staff, especially new staff members,
get to know one another and the area surrounding the school.
The trip to Connor Farm for apple picking gave everyone a full day in the sunshine. In addition to picking apples, students and staff members learned about the workings of the farm and its farm stand. Everyone came back with bags of apples and other fruit to bring home. The pies prepared at school were excellent too!
Students and staff are all so pleased with the school's new lavatories, which include up-to-date facilities for males and females and a unisex facility for physically handicapped individuals. COMPASS' hiring of Sid Kumins, Inc. for construction and Studio G for designs made for a smooth process and an outstanding result!
Everyone is looking forward to the annual Halloween Party, hosted for the young children at the Warren Prescott Elementary School across the street. Committees have been formed to decorate, seek donations and implement activities on Halloween. As usual, the children will be treated to a scary story and the Haunted Hallway followed by fun games and goodie bags. In celebration of the spirit of the month, a school wide field trip to Salem, Mass. is being planned, where students and staff will learn about the witch trials as well as the history of that maritime city.
The trip to Connor Farm for apple picking gave everyone a full day in the sunshine. In addition to picking apples, students and staff members learned about the workings of the farm and its farm stand. Everyone came back with bags of apples and other fruit to bring home. The pies prepared at school were excellent too!
Students and staff are all so pleased with the school's new lavatories, which include up-to-date facilities for males and females and a unisex facility for physically handicapped individuals. COMPASS' hiring of Sid Kumins, Inc. for construction and Studio G for designs made for a smooth process and an outstanding result!
Everyone is looking forward to the annual Halloween Party, hosted for the young children at the Warren Prescott Elementary School across the street. Committees have been formed to decorate, seek donations and implement activities on Halloween. As usual, the children will be treated to a scary story and the Haunted Hallway followed by fun games and goodie bags. In celebration of the spirit of the month, a school wide field trip to Salem, Mass. is being planned, where students and staff will learn about the witch trials as well as the history of that maritime city.
COMPASS' Violence Prevention Day Celebration
June 13th, 2008
Violence Prevention Day is an annual year end celebration with students and staff, featuring student speakers, student recognitions and awards, and demonstrations of musical and dance performances. This year's Violence Prevention Day Ceremony included the following events and recognitions:
This year's T-Shirt design contest was open to students in all COMPASS programs. The winning design was done by a student at COMPASS' Jamaica Plain School, who won a $50 gift certificate and his design on 500 T-Shirts. The winning design and message, "Make Peace In The Streets" was in evidence on all in attendance, staff, students and visitors alike, a visible reminder of the theme of the day's events.
This year's Violence Prevention Day T-Shirts were purchased with a grant awarded to COMPASS from the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) through the MCCA's Community Partnership & Hospitality Scholarship Fund.
Following the ceremony a delicious lunch, prepared by COMPASS Cafe, was enjoyed by all. Our special thanks to Chris Rocher and his Culinary Arts students for preparing and serving lunch.
Violence Prevention Day is an annual year end celebration with students and staff, featuring student speakers, student recognitions and awards, and demonstrations of musical and dance performances. This year's Violence Prevention Day Ceremony included the following events and recognitions:
- Welcome from John Lydon, COMPASS Executive Director
- A Drumming Selection from Nuradafina Abena
- Dedication by Beth Labbe and Terry Belli
- Announcement of Awards in memory of Kip Sowpel and Jason Mitchell, and Remembrances by Middle School Students
- Dance Presentation and Poetry under the direction of Necole Mance:
Poem read by Chantel Wade
Dance Troupe Akela Jackson, Jannie Johnson, Sade Ridley, Vanessa Rivera,Chantel Wade, Jamal Williams, and Melanie Williams
Elementary Class Summer Poetry - Basketball/Track Awards by Coaches Brent and Chris
- Student Poetry Presentation by Staya Daily
- Student Speaker Shenika Nicole Street
- Track and Field Awards presented by Daniela Fairchild and Pam Stich
- Outdoor Education Awards presented by Daniela Fairchild and BenMcCormick to: Corallis Delgado, Ayana Driggs, Miguel Hidalgo, MichaelShepard
- Congratulations were extended to graduating seniors Jeffrey Anitus,Corey Eaton, Jessica Firicano, Carlos Fuentes, Deoman Hamilton, Jeff Jones, and T.J. Rodriguez
This year's T-Shirt design contest was open to students in all COMPASS programs. The winning design was done by a student at COMPASS' Jamaica Plain School, who won a $50 gift certificate and his design on 500 T-Shirts. The winning design and message, "Make Peace In The Streets" was in evidence on all in attendance, staff, students and visitors alike, a visible reminder of the theme of the day's events.
This year's Violence Prevention Day T-Shirts were purchased with a grant awarded to COMPASS from the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) through the MCCA's Community Partnership & Hospitality Scholarship Fund.
Following the ceremony a delicious lunch, prepared by COMPASS Cafe, was enjoyed by all. Our special thanks to Chris Rocher and his Culinary Arts students for preparing and serving lunch.
COMPASS Graduation Day 2008
June 6th, 2008
This year students from both COMPASS schools, our Jamaica Plain school and the Holden School in Charlestown
celebrated their graduation together. The ceremonies were well attended by staff, family members, service providers and
members of the Board of Directors and Advisory Committees. Following opening remarks by John Lydon, Executive Director and
Janice Brenner, Director of the Holden School, the group enjoyed a Keynote Speech by Ms. Joan Landers, Superintendent of Public Schools in
Wakefield. Ms. Landers supported the students' perseverance to earn their diplomas and celebrated their success.
In addition to diplomas, traditional Holden School awards were given. Awards include a check and the placement of the winning students' names on plaques posted at the school. This year's winners were:
Jeefery Anitus, Corey Eaton, Jessica Firicano, Carlos Fuentes, Deoman Hamilton, Jeffery Jones, Tony (TJ) Rodriguez
Following the ceremonies, everyone enjoyed a lavish buffet at the Holden School. Congratulations and thanks to all who made the day possible!
In addition to diplomas, traditional Holden School awards were given. Awards include a check and the placement of the winning students' names on plaques posted at the school. This year's winners were:
- Nicholas Brown for the Bob Heard Community Award
- Gevens Mayala for the Dr. Tom Frank Personal Growth Award
- Anastashia Daily for the John P. Santry Sportsmanship Award
Jeefery Anitus, Corey Eaton, Jessica Firicano, Carlos Fuentes, Deoman Hamilton, Jeffery Jones, Tony (TJ) Rodriguez
Following the ceremonies, everyone enjoyed a lavish buffet at the Holden School. Congratulations and thanks to all who made the day possible!
In Memory of Jason Mitchell, 1970 - 2008
June 2008COMPASS' Jamaica Plain School students and staff, and the whole COMPASS community, were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of a much loved, respected and longtime COMPASS case worker, Jason Mitchell, on May 6th. Jason's contributions during his seven years of working for COMPASS were immense. His loss continues to be felt throughout the COMPASS community of staff, students and families.
Click to read more about Jason, along with remembrances from friends and family.
COMPASS Receives Clowes Fund Award
June 2008
COMPASS' efforts to help students transition to post-secondary educationand jobs got a big boost this month when we
received word that our application to The Clowes Fund was successful and we will be awarded $20,000
for stipend-supported job apprenticeships for COMPASS students at both the Holden School in Charlestown and our
Jamaica Plain School. This means that we can place students in jobs where they can "try on" careers in which they
are interested, while developing job experience and references, along with some regular income.
Staff at both schools will be seeking apprenticeship sites and monitoring placements for students. We are very excited about this opportunity and very grateful to The Clowes Fund.
The Clowes Fund, a family foundation, seeks to enhance the common good by encouraging organizations and projects that help to build a just and equitable society, create opportunities for initiatives, foster creativity and the growth of knowledge, and promote appreciation of the natural environment.
Staff at both schools will be seeking apprenticeship sites and monitoring placements for students. We are very excited about this opportunity and very grateful to The Clowes Fund.
The Clowes Fund, a family foundation, seeks to enhance the common good by encouraging organizations and projects that help to build a just and equitable society, create opportunities for initiatives, foster creativity and the growth of knowledge, and promote appreciation of the natural environment.
COMPASS Jamaica Plain School Trip to New York City
May 2008Students had a good time on the 2008 New York City trip. They attended an exciting Yankees game, where Erin got featured on a Q & A session on the CW11 local news, and students got their first NYC subway experience. They saw the filming of the Today show, where Jonathan and Miguel got to meet Al Roker and actually got filmed in the show. Everyone enjoyed climbing the Empire State Building and seeing how small the city looks from above. A favorite was eating a late lunch at the Jekyll and Hyde Club where students interacted with the waitstaff as well as the fixtures on the wall. Some other things the students saw were Ground Zero, the NBA store, 5th Ave, Central Park, and relaxing by the pool.