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Opening the Past: The Pam Oliver Time Capsule Celebration

Opening the Past: The Pam Oliver Time Capsule Celebration On the morning of February 12, the J. Turner Hood Elementary School community gathered for a truly special moment: the opening of a time capsule created in 1989 by beloved educator Mrs. Pam Oliver and her class. The event served as both a celebration of history and a tribute to Mrs. Oliver’s lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues. Although Mrs. Oliver could not be present in person, she was foremost in our thoughts on this day. As the audience gathered, we paused to recognize her legacy as a teacher who inspired curiosity, built confidence, and created a classroom where students felt encouraged to dream, question, and grow. While the capsule was originally intended to be opened at a later date, the moment felt right to honor Mrs. Oliver and the remarkable community she helped build. The celebration also included recognition of many current and former colleagues of Mrs. Oliver, whose presence reflected the deep ...
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School-Based Morale Team Events

School-Based Morale Team Events  Glen McKay, Hood School Principal Did you know that teacher morale has emerged as a critical factor influencing both staff retention and student outcomes? Research consistently shows that supportive school environments—characterized by strong collegial relationships and recognition of staff efforts—contribute to higher levels of job satisfaction and professional engagement (Dinham & Scott, 2000; Johnson, Kraft, & Papay, 2012). One strategy noted in the literature for fostering such environments is the implementation of school-based morale teams. School-based morale teams are small, collaborative groups within a school, typically composed of teachers, administrators, and support staff, whose primary purpose is to promote positive school culture and enhance staff wellbeing. Evidence suggests that such teams have tangible benefits: schools that implement structured staff support initiatives, including morale-focused teams, report higher levels ...
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Gratitude on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (L.E.A.D.) is observed annually on January 9th and serves as an important opportunity to pause and recognize the service, dedication, and sacrifices of law enforcement officers.  I feel especially grateful to work in a school community that has such a strong, positive, and authentic connection with our local police department. Their presence in our building is not just about safety—it is about relationships. Seeing officers walking the halls, greeting students and staff, and engaging in meaningful, positive interactions is something I truly cherish. These moments matter. They help build trust, model respect, and reinforce the idea that school is a shared community responsibility. On a personal level, this day holds special significance for me as the son of a retired Massachusetts State Police officer. I grew up with a firsthand understanding of the commitment, sacrifice, and quiet strength required to serve in law enforcement. That perspective has s...
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Walking the Halls, Grateful for Our Community

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December 16, 2025 Walking the Halls, Grateful for Our Community As December unfolds and winter break approaches, I find myself especially reflective as I walk the halls of the J. Turner Hood School. There is a distinct feeling you get in a school when things are going well—not because everything is perfect, but because the people inside the building are deeply committed to one another and to the work of teaching and learning. That feeling is present every day at Hood, and it is something I do not take for granted. In classrooms across the building, I continue to see thoughtful, engaging instruction paired with strong relationships. Our students are curious, kind, and eager to learn. Our teachers and staff consistently go above and beyond to meet students where they are—academically, socially, and emotionally—while holding high expectations rooted in our shared mission: helping everyone grow into safe, responsible, and respectful members of our community. This season has offered many mo...
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Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day at the J. Turner Hood Elementary School

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  Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day at the J. Turner Hood Elementary School November 13, 2025 By Dr. Glen McKay, Principal On Thursday, November 13, the J. Turner Hood Elementary School community came together for one of our most meaningful annual traditions — our Veterans Day Ceremony and Concert. This year’s event, held on Cavalieri Field, was a beautiful celebration of gratitude, patriotism, and community. From the moment our students arrived dressed proudly in red, white, and blue, the spirit of appreciation filled the air. Our third graders led the ceremony with poise and heart, sharing songs, reflections, and readings that reminded us all of the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. I opened the ceremony by welcoming our students, staff, families, and honored guests — and by thanking our school community for showing such heartfelt patriotism. A special round of applause went to our third graders, who worked tirelessly to prepar...
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We Take Science and Traditions Seriously at J. Turner Hood Elementary

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We Take Science and Traditions Seriously at J. Turner Hood Elementary Dr. Glen McKay, Hood School Principal For eight years, the J. Turner Hood Elementary School community has come together each fall to celebrate creativity, curiosity, and collaboration through its beloved STEAM Night. This year’s event was held on November 5, 2025. What began as a professional practice and school community-building goal has grown into one of the school’s most exciting annual traditions — a hands-on celebration of science, technology, engineering, art, and math that unites students, staff, families, and even alumni. Who would have thought that eight years ago, we would continue Mrs. Cleary’s passion project with such success? Mrs. Cleary, a beloved fifth-grade teacher, our science leader, and resident scientist, has dedicated countless hours to organizing and running this time-honored event. Her efforts truly make STEAM Night possible. This year’s event was one of the most dynamic yet. Hallways were b...
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Sunshine Traditions

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One of our favorite things to do here is carry on a fun tradition — Sunshine Sponsored Activities ! Our Sunshine Group is made up of dedicated staff who work together to create a positive, inclusive school culture. Through thoughtful gestures and joyful events, they recognize, celebrate, and support one another all year long. Today’s Celtics Day is just one example of how we bring a little fun into our days. I couldn’t even name a single player, but I love being participatory and look forward to many more Sunshine moments ahead! We are also thrilled to share that our Student Council has been formed, and we are looking forward to a host of exciting community-building activities this year. Here is the link:  https://sites.google.com/nrpsk12.org/hoodhappenings25-26/home
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