NORWOOD — Superintendent David Thomson would like to provide community members with several updates regarding the district’s work toward the implementation of the new start times for the 2022-2023 school year.
The Norwood School Committee voted to approve new start times for the district’s eight schools during the Feb. 9 school committee meeting, with the changes to be implemented in the fall of 2022.
The district website has been updated to reflect the vote to change the times for next year. Additional information from the School Start Time Subcommittee, including presentations, family surveys, FAQs and more can be found here.
Extended Day
Information and documents on the Extended Day webpage have been updated to reflect the time changes and rates for the 2022-2023 school year. Extended Day registration opened on March 28.
The district and Extended Day program have worked in recent years to increase capacity, assist in affordability and keep costs reasonable. In response to parent/guardian feedback, the new Extended Day program now offers prorated fees for families who only desire limited coverage rather than the full afternoon coverage. Included in information shared about the program were details for families looking to apply for a fee voucher.
The Extended Day team is working with the high school administrative team to recruit high school students to work as staff members in the afterschool program. These students will participate in the work-based learning program. The middle school team and the Extended Day program are also planning for before school coverage for any families in need.
Additionally, over 50 external providers for daycare and afterschool care have been notified by the district of the new start times.
School Services and Activities
Food Services and Transportation have been informed of the time changes and are working toward full implementation for the coming school year. Superintendent Thomson has also sent written notice to all other Unions, including Crossing Guards, about the change in school start times.
At the high school level, the Tri-Valley League has been notified of a change in start times and Athletic Director Jonathan Longley is working on the district’s fall athletic schedules.
Communication and Next Steps
School and district administrators are highlighting the new start times in their communications to students, families and staff. Additionally, family liaisons are working with schools by reaching out directly to English Learner families.
The School Committee, Superintendent Thomson and the Union Leadership are also currently meeting to impact bargain around the change in start times.
The district will provide families with another opportunity to give feedback sometime in May or June to identify remaining challenges regarding the implementation. Details regarding this feedback opportunity will be shared as they become available.
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