Dear Colleagues,
I’ve thought a great deal on how to frame my thoughts this week after events that have often felt disorienting. On Monday, I joined many members of our community to recognize the life and lessons of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., at a luncheon hosted by the World of Wellesley. The keynote speaker, Dr. Kellie Carter Jackson, both challenged and inspired our thinking as she described her family’s history in the context of our country’s history and treatment of Black Americans. Throughout the conversations in the room, I considered the progress we have made in living up to the ideals framed in our country’s founding documents while also being reminded of the significant work that remains in front of us. Being surrounded by so many thoughtful local leaders and members of our community, I felt a strong sense of hope that our community is committed to this vision.
At the same time as our MLK luncheon was taking place, a transition of power was occurring in Washington and within hours of the inauguration, we learned of an executive order that was signed to eliminate birthright citizenship, a constitutional guarantee outlined in the 14th Amendment. This was followed by a slew of other executive actions this week focused on areas such as immigration, gender identity, and DEI programs. For members of our community, particularly those in groups who have been historically marginalized, I know the impact of these actions has been significant, as it appears that our nation is no longer moving forward, but backward, in our pursuit of civil rights.
Yesterday, I shared a message with our community outlining the protections that remain in place in our district with regard to immigration status and gender identity. Most important, I also affirmed our commitment to ensuring a safe and supporting school environment for our students, staff, and families. At a time when long-established protections suddenly feel vulnerable, I ask for your support in our shared responsibility to ensure that WPS is a place where everyone belongs.
Thanks for what you do each day across our district and have a great weekend.
Best, David
Calendar
January 28 – School Committee Meeting
January 29 – Lunar New Year (Schools Closed)
February 11 – School Committee Meeting
February 17-21 – February Break (Schools Closed)
Apply For a WEF Grant
The deadline for submitting all grant applications is Tuesday, January 21st, 2025. Click here to apply for a grant!
COVID-19 Tests
Order your 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests by clicking this link.
Opportunities from the Town of Wellesley
Get your event featured!: The Town of Wellesley has a new Community Events Calendar on its website. Schools or departments hosting events are welcome to submit an event for inclusion on the town-wide calendar. Send details via the event submission form.
Human Relation Services
The Human Relation Services (HRS) can help. Wellesley Public Schools has contracted with HRS to provide up to ten free counseling visits for you and/or your family members. This program is designed to help you deal with stresses of life and work –including personal and family issues, drug or alcohol problems, and job related tension. It offers prevention and intervention to reduce these stresses and improve coping skills.
HRS is located at 11 Chapel Place in Wellesley and can be reached at 781-235-4950. This is a confidential service. Wellesley Public Schools is not aware of the names of employees or their family members who utilize this service.
Do you have a question for the WPS Human Resources Department?
Email AskHR@Wellesleyps.org. The Human Resources Department is happy to assist you.
WPS Internal Job Postings on District Website
For all Internal Job Postings, please go to “Internal Job Postings” under the Faculty tab of the District’s website. How to Apply for WPS Internal Job Postings as a New Internal Applicant