Dear Families, 

Happy Friday everyone. It feels amazing to know it’s over 60 degrees outside.  I won’t go so far as to say “real spring” is here, but I do like what the weather is doing for the next few days. 

Believe it or not, this week marked the beginning of Quarter 4 here at the high school.  This likely means different things to different grades – hang in there seniors.  For me this week meant the earnest kickoff of hiring season.  Today and Monday Mark Ito and I are hosting finalist days for the World Language Department Head position (grades 6-12).  I’d love to have some of you come by to ask questions of our finalist candidate on Monday from 10:30 to 11:00 in the FDR. In the week following April Break we plan on having finalists to host for our Athletic Director candidates.  I will let you know the times you can drop in to those sessions in next week’s note.  

I’ve always felt that every hire we do is an opportunity. Our new staff members bring new ideas, new energy, and become a new resource to help our students become the best versions of themselves. The newness of spring is not only about hiring of course.  It is also about saying goodbye to members of our community.   It is incredibly important that schools rightsize to fit enrollment trends in town and it is also important that as we do that we do it with a human lens that is sensitive to the people who have to move on. That can be hard on the students too of course and if you hear your children talking about this happening, please take the opportunity to check in with them.  As always, we are here to support you if you may need it. 

This past weekend, our instrumental ensembles participated in the Massachusetts Instrumental & Choral Conductor’s Association’s (MICCA) Concert Festival – an annual event that promotes high musical standards for Massachusetts student ensembles by providing them with professional adjudication, clinical workshops, and the opportunity to perform for and listen to their peers. 

I am thrilled to share that all three of our instrumental ensembles—Honors Chamber Orchestra, Sinfonia, and Wind Ensemble—earned Gold Medals at the MICCA festival. This is the highest possible distinction awarded at the event, and it is a testament to the hours of dedication and artistry these students have poured into their music this year, as well as the unwavering commitment and talent of Steve Scott and Sergey Khanukaev.

Additionally, the Wellesley High School Drama Society (WHSDAC) represented our school with pride as they presented their production of “Fire in the Hole” at the Massachusetts Educational Theatre Guild (METG) State Finals. Their performance was exceptional, and the production earned special awards for Acting (Oscar Allan, Natalia Medina) and Props (Addison Kinney, LInda Zhang). This is a testament to the countless hours of artistry these students have poured into their craft this year, as well as the visionary leadership and tireless dedication of Skylar Grossman, Jonah LeDoux, and their entire production team.

Our students represented Wellesley Public Schools with class and excellence at every turn. Please take a moment to congratulate these performers if you see them in the halls today!

Here are some photos!

Hi students and families,

We hope you all are doing well. On Friday, May 1st from 7-9 pm, the class of 2029 will be hosting the 9th grade semi-formal in the high school cafeteria. The theme of the dance will be A Night in Miami. We are excited to host our first class dance and this will be a fun night for 9th graders where they can spend time with their friends with music. There will also be a photobooth, a DJ, and snacks. Early Bird tickets will be on sale until April 17th for $25 through RecTrac. Students and caregivers who would like more information on how to receive financial assistance should reach out to their school counselor or Mr. Shattuck.

We hope to see you there!

Best,

2029 class officers  

Join The Class of 2027 students for an unforgettable experience on the water! The junior year tradition of embarking on a beautiful sunset cruise with delicious food, music, and dancing will take place on Friday, May 15th from 6:00-9:00 PM! Tickets for the cruise are $95 until April 17th. After this date, the price will increase to $115. Please purchase your tickets soon from the fee payment page on the WHS website so you don’t miss this exciting highlight of junior year! 

Ever wonder about the books teens are reading?

Ever read a popular YA book and wished you had someone to discuss it with?

The librarians at Wellesley High School host a monthly Book Club for parents where we read YA books and discuss. If you are interested in participating please email us at whslibrary-group@wellesleyps.org

at the Wellesley Free Library (in the first floor cafe/commons)

at 7:30pm

to discuss Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt (middle grade novel)

June 9 – The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (realistic fiction)

Summer read – TBD

Tuesday, September 15, 2026 – TBD

The Wellesley Free Library will have copies available for check out.

Any question can be emailed to whslibrary-group@wellesleyps.org

The School Nurses in conjunction with the Fitness and Health Department will be conducting hearing, vision, height and weight screenings for 10th grade students during Health classes on April 28th and 29th.   Please encourage your child to have their glasses/contacts with them if used routinely during the school day.  

If you wish to opt-out of this screening please fill out this google form.  To read the full informational letter click here.

Please see the recently updated School Counseling Page for Spring events and information.

3/31/26 – Jumpstart to Junior Year (7pm over Zoom)

Slides, Recording (passcode: w^73ar1U)

WHS counselors will present a framework and timeline for the post-secondary process with a focus on the milestones that are particularly relevant to students looking ahead to their junior year. 

Our list of clubs and enrichment programs for 2025-2026 has recently been updated.

To print your own copy or access the list, see Complete List of 2025-2026 Clubs on the WHS website. 

Next week we will say bon voyage to our Art Trip that is headed to Japan (I’m so jealous) and to our Swiss exchange as well (also jealous).  These trips abroad can be some of the most meaningful moments in our students’ education experience.  I wish that for all of them. 

Have a great weekend everyone. 

Best, 

Jamie