Walpole schools 2010

[Tom]

Walpole High School has been placed on warning by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges in one of the seven categories for reaccreditation.

In an interim report, NEASC says WHS has work to do on its "assessments on student learning," the process for judging schoolwide and individual progress. (This NEASC page (http://cpss.neasc.org/downloads/2011_Standards/2011_Standards.pdf) provides a general description of accreditation standards for 2011.)

Warnings in that category do not affect college applications and are not published by NEASC, according to Superintendent Lincoln Lynch.

Under the accreditation timetable, WHS has a year to implement a remedy.

A committee has been formed at the high school, and interim Principal Frank Sambuceti and Asst. Superintendent Jean Kenney will present an update at the next school committee meeting, March 15.

"We expect to be out of warning status shortly," Lynch said. He noted that the NEASC report commends Walpole High in the other six teaching, learning and support categories.

[Tom]

Here is Superintendent Lincoln Lynch's letter announcing his appointment of Stephen Imbusch as principal of Walpole High School:

Dear Students, Parents and Staff:

As Superintendent of Schools, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Stephen Imbusch as the new Principal for Walpole High School. Mr. Imbusch demonstrates the leadership characteristics needed to move the school forward. Mr. Imbusch began his career at Walpole High School thirteen years ago as a Technology Teacher and has served the past eight years a Assistant Principal.

Throughout the exhaustive four month selection process, Mr. Imbusch exhibited an authentic desire to advocate for the success of every student. He expressed his belief that students and faculty deserve an atmosphere of mutual respect. He openly identified weaknesses that need immediate attention, such as removing the school from accreditation warning status; improving two-way communication with students, faculty and parents; establishing a team-building model for inclusive decision making; and strengthening mid-level courses. He understands the history and culture of Walpole and will ensure stability in the position.

My sincere thanks to the scores of students, parents and staff who participated in the selection process. Several common themes surfaced from a thorough review of the feedback submitted. Mr. Imbusch’s skill set best aligned with the framework of skills and characteristics necessary for the leader of a 21st century high school.

Both finalists earned our sincere appreciation by preparing for and participating in the process. Mr. Imbusch will fully assume the duties of Walpole High School principal on March 15, 2010. The District will be posting the (now vacant) Assistant Principal position for a start date prior to the next school year. In the meantime, an Interim Assistant Principal will be announced shortly.

Sincerely,
Lincoln Lynch

[Tom]

The Walpole Teachers Association have voted to accept changes in health insurance and a reduction in a cost of living increase for 2010-11. Here's the report and reaction from Superintendent Lincoln Lynch.

"Today, March 19, the Walpole Public Schools teachers’ union overwhelming voted (78% to 22%) in favor of wage and health care premium concessions.

"The employees have voluntarily made these sacrifices to save jobs and maintain reasonable class sizes. The concessions reduce the projected budget gap from $2.1M to $1.4M. Specific positions saved will be determined at a future School Committee *public budget deliberation.

"The package includes a decrease to the cost of living adjustment, employees moving to higher co-pay Rate Saver insurance plan or paying a higher percentage of traditional plan, and a reduction of tuition reimbursement.

"The non-union employees and administration will follow suit.

"We are hopeful that state, local and federal elected officials will further support our students by working collaboratively to mitigate the remaining budget gap.

"Today is a proud day for the Walpole Public School community."