Family Newsletter | August 6, 2026
Dr. Jennifer O'Neill
joneill@norton.k12.ma.us
@joneill727
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A Summer Update from the Superintendent
Dear Norton Families,
I hope you and your family are having a wonderful summer! I know August often feels like a mix of enjoying the last few weeks of vacation while also beginning to prepare for the excitement of a new school year.
While our buildings may be quieter during the summer months, they certainly haven't been empty. Behind the scenes, our administrators, teachers, and support staff have been working hard to ensure we're ready to welcome students back in just a few weeks.
Last week, our administrative team gathered at Norton High School for our annual leadership retreat. Over three days, we reflected on the successes and lessons from last year while planning for the year ahead. Together, we spent time strengthening the work around our district's mission, vision, and core values, and identifying ways to continue bringing the Lancer Way to life in every school, every classroom, and every interaction. These conversations help ensure that our work remains focused on what matters most—providing every student with an exceptional educational experience while fostering a strong sense of belonging and community.
At the same time, teams across the district have been busy preparing for opening day. Throughout the summer we have:
Welcomed and hired outstanding new teachers and staff members to join the Norton Public Schools team. Finalized student schedules and classroom placements. Planned professional learning for our educators. Prepared classrooms and school buildings for students' return. Continued curriculum work and planning to support engaging, high-quality learning experiences. Worked through the countless details that help ensure a smooth opening to the school year.
Although much of this work happens behind the scenes, it reflects the tremendous dedication of our staff and their commitment to our students and families.
Over the coming weeks, you'll receive additional back-to-school information from your child's school, including important dates, transportation information, schedules, and opportunities to meet teachers and staff.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Norton Public Schools. We are excited to welcome our students back soon and look forward to another year of learning, growth, and celebrating what it means to be a Lancer.
Enjoy these final weeks of summer!
Warmly,
Dr. Jennifer O'Neill
Superintendent of Schools
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E-Bike Safety Reminder for Families
As summer continues, we've seen more students and families enjoying e-bikes throughout our community. E-bikes can be a fun and convenient way to get around, but they also come with important safety responsibilities.
We encourage all families to take a few minutes to review safe riding practices with their children before they head out. A few important reminders:
Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries. Follow all traffic laws. E-bike riders should obey stop signs, traffic signals, speed limits, and ride in the direction of traffic. Ride responsibly. Avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones, and always stay alert to vehicles, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Ride one person per seat. Most e-bikes are designed for a single rider unless specifically manufactured for passengers. Be visible. Wear bright clothing and use lights or reflectors if riding in the early morning, evening, or low-light conditions. Know your e-bike. Families should make sure riders understand how to safely operate their specific e-bike, including braking, acceleration, and battery charging.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to review Massachusetts laws regarding bicycles and e-bikes with their children and ensure they are riding safely and responsibly.
Our goal is for every student to enjoy a safe and active summer. Thank you for partnering with us to help keep our children—and everyone in our community—safe.
We hope you continue to have a wonderful summer, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back soon!
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Open House & Back-to-School Information
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We look forward to welcoming students and families back for another year of learning, growth, and success. Please review the list of important back-to-school dates below to help your family prepare for the new school year. |
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L. G. Nourse Grades 1-3 Open House: August 31 - 4:00-5:00 p.m.
J. C. Solmonese Grades 1-3 Open House: August 31 - 4:00-5:00 p.m.
H. A. Yelle Grade 4: August 31 - 5:30-6:00 p.m.
H. A. Yelle Grade 5: August 31 - 5:00 -5:30 p.m.
Norton Middle School Grade 6 Welcome Social: August 31, 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Norton High School Freshman/Transfer Orientation: August 26, 5:00-6:00 p.m.
First Day Grades 1-12: September 2
Schools Closed: September 4 and 7
First Day Kindergarten and Little Lancers: September 8
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Norton Overdose Awareness Vigil
The Norton Board of Health and N.O.P.E. (Norton Opioid Prevention & Education), in partnership with Bristol-Norfolk Public Health Partners, invite community members to attend the Norton Overdose Awareness Vigil on Monday, August 31, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in the Crane Meeting Room at Norton Town Hall.
This meaningful gathering provides an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose, support individuals and families impacted by substance use, and reaffirm our community's commitment to prevention, education, and hope.
Battery-operated candles will be provided at the door. Community members are encouraged to RSVP for this event.
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August 26th
Norton High School Freshman/Transfer Orientation
School Committee Meeting
August 31st
Elementary Open Houses
Norton Middle School Grade 6 Welcome Social
September 2nd
First Day Grades 1-12
September 4th and 7th
Schools Closed
September 8th
First Day Kindergarten and Little Lancers
September 9th
School Committee Meeting
September 23rd
School Committee Meeting
September 30th
Districtwide Early Release/Professional Development
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Virtual Backpack
Explore here to find e-flyers on events, offerings and more in our community.
To submit a flyer to the Virtual Backpack, please contact Pam Anderson at pamelaanderson@norton.k12.ma.us.
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