School Notes: At Pepin, author makes writing lessons fun

EASTHAMPTON

Schoolchildren today have multiple platforms in which to write: text messages, instant messages, email, online forums, and, yes, traditional pen and paper.

In other words, writing - whether in or out of the classroom - is routine.

"We're writing every day," said Robert Orlando, principal for Pepin and Center elementary schools.

PVPA mediation entering 5th month

SOUTH HADLEY - Mediation between Bob Brick, co-founder and executive director of the Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School, and its board of trustees is continuing, but little other information about the process is being provided.

At a trustees meeting Tuesday night at the school on Mulligan Drive, that raised concerns.

Unopposed candidates to join Northampton school boards

NORTHAMPTON - At least four newcomers will join the city's nine-member School Committee in January, while one write-in candidate hopes to join two uncontested incumbents on the Smith Vocational and Agricultural School's three-member trustees board.

Wright finalist for Ware job

NORTHAMPTON - Susan L. Wright, Northampton schools business manager for five years, is a finalist for the town manager opening in Ware, a job, if selected, she could start as early as January.

A former town administrator in Longmeadow and Whately, Wright said she applied for the post because she misses the variety of working in town government with multiple departments.

School Lunch Menu

Amherst-Pelham (Elementary)

MONDAY: Whole wheat pasta w/meat sauce, cheese stick, green beans, chilled fruit cup

TUESDAY: Whole wheat french toast sticks, sausage, potato puffs, applesauce

WEDNESDAY: Baked chicken, steamed brown rice, green peas, whole wheat roll, fruit cup

No contests, but new faces on Easthampton school board

EASTHAMPTON - An estimated $43 million new high school project, three new school administrators and the search for a new superintendent will greet the new School Committee next year. Tuesday's election will mean the board loses two veterans, keeps four members for a second term and takes on two newcomers in January.

Hadley students excel at MCAS

HADLEY - Students in grades three through eight and 10 performed at levels well above the state average in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System tests administered last spring.

By one measure, Hadley's performance in the MCAS tests equaled Amherst's.