For three years in a row, the Mattapoisett School District – Center School and Old Hammondtown School – has been recognized as a commendation school by the Massachusetts Department of Education, one of 42 schools receiving commendation status, and one of only five schools in the state to receive the status three years in a row.
Commendation school status is given to schools for MCAS scores reflecting the closing of achievement gaps in English and Math.
On January 12, school administrative staff celebrated this achievement during an assembly at Old Hammondtown School, when students and staff were congratulated for their exceptional work, treated to a special dessert, and commemorated with a banner to be hung at the school.
“I couldn’t be prouder,” said Superintendent of Schools Doug White to a cafetorium of students seated on the floor. “I’m proud of each and every one of you.”
White led the students in a round of applause for each of the three grades at Old Hammondtown and then presented the official DOE certificate to Center School and Old Hammondtown School Principal Rose Bowman.
“It is a gift to be here with you every single day,” Bowman told the students. “And when you go home … please say ‘thank you’ to your parents because they helped you…. Your family has stood behind you.”
Assistant Superintendent Elise Frangos asked each student to turn to their right and tell the person seated next to them, “Thank you for being exceptional.”
“Because that’s what you are,” said Frangos. “Exceptional.”
Vice Principal Kevin Tavares unveiled the new banner on the stage and raised his arms in the air victoriously.
“You like it?” White shouted to the students. “Yeah!” they shouted back. “You gonna go for four?” said White. “Yeah!” the students roared.
“We may be here next year,” said White.
After school, staff members and several town officials gathered at Old Hammondtown for their own celebration, when teachers were given a small gift of appreciation and recognized for their performance.
By Jean Perry
