Hello Hardy Families:

End of the day car pick up at Hardy can be difficult given all of the challenges we face with a short pick up zone and cars waiting on Weston Road. We continue to try to move the cars along in a safe and quick way. We also need to keep in mind our neighbors who need access to their driveways so please do not block or park in front of driveways. Just a reminder that cars cannot idle as they are parked waiting for pick up.

There is a School Council meeting next Thursday in my office from 7:50 to 8:30 a.m., all are welcome.

As you may be aware, the town approved funding last spring for a critical district-wide initiative centered around school security with the primary objectives being:  first and foremost, providing for the safety and security of our students, staff and community; and secondly, safeguarding the town’s physical assets.  I am pleased to announce that the installation of our school’s security package is nearly complete and our system is expected to go live towards the end of December.

What this means for us at Hardy is that our security infrastructure now includes the following components:

  • Enhanced communications:

  • New P.A./intercom system

  • Portable 2-way radios with direct communication to the WPD

  • Relocation/addition of “panic” (duress) buttons

  • Fortified access controls:

  • Access control system (including exterior doors) – staff will need a proximity card to gain entrance

  • Classroom (interior) security locks/doors

  • “3M Scotchshield” safety and security film for main entrance glass

  • Improved ability to monitor and/or assess:

  • Surveillance system – with cameras mounted near all entryways and outside (but not in any teaching spaces, offices, bathrooms or locker rooms)

  • Motion detector lighting

Just as important as the professional installation of all this equipment has been our ongoing training around safety protocols.  This has included training on the A.L.I.C.E. model (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) with our staff participating in an active shooter simulation facilitated by the Wellesley Police Department (WPD)  earlier this fall.  We are also in the process of developing new evacuation drills for students, in collaboration with the WPD and Wellesley Fire Department, that we plan to practice later this year.

While our facilities improvements and training represent important aspects of our district security strategy, what has not changed is our diligence in knowing our students well, encouraging students to look after each other and ensuring that strong lines of communication remain open between school and home.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Who doesn’t want to yell BINGO?!

Mark your calendars – Hardy Bingo Night is back – Friday, January 26th in the Hardy Gym.

The 5th grade class is busy preparing for Hardy’s annual Bingo Night. There will be games, concessions and prizes!  Bring the whole family and have a great time playing, eating and spending time with our wonderful Hardy community.

We look forward to seeing all our fellow Huskies January 26th!  Doors open at 5:30.

Charlene Cook, Principal

Hello Hardy Families