J. T. Hood School News

November News

Dear Hood School Families,

It’s hard to believe we are already well into the school year! 

Throughout October and early November, I’ve had the opportunity to observe a multitude of amazing classroom lessons and schoolwide events. It continues to be an absolute joy to see our students learning, our teachers innovating, and our families supporting every step of the way.

As we move into this season of gratitude—and just one day after World Kindness Day—I want to take a moment to express how thankful I am for every member of our Hood School community. Our students, staff, and families are working together at a high level, and it shows in every area of growth, kindness, and collaboration.

In our classrooms, students are highly engaged and eager to learn. The dedication of our teachers and support staff shines through daily, and I encourage everyone to pause this month and reflect on the great things happening at the Hood School. Every day, someone goes above and beyond to make this a truly special place to learn and grow.

I’m also thrilled to share that our latest state accountability report places the Hood School in the 95th percentile statewide—a remarkable reflection of our collective efforts and commitment to excellence.

Be sure to check out the newest post on my blog, Inside the Hood, where I’ve highlighted some recent events, including our incredibly successful STEAM Night. You can read it here: Welcome to Inside the Hood. A special shoutout to Mrs. Cleary and the amazing Hood staff volunteers who made it possible.

A heartfelt thank-you also goes to our Parent Association (PA) for their outstanding efforts this fall—from sponsoring enrichment programs and organizing the Fun Run to supporting field trips and classroom initiatives. The Boo Bash was another huge success and continues to be a beloved, time-honored tradition thanks to them. If you see a PA member, please take a moment to thank them for their hard work and dedication.

We are also proud of our third graders who were the stars of the Veterans Day celebration, coordinated by Ms. Comeau. Thanks to our third-grade team, and of course, the veterans who joined us. It’s a meaningful tradition we are honored to continue.

Parent-Teacher Conferences are coming soon—please be on the lookout for more information, which will be shared on November 14, 2025.

 

---

Reminders and Updates

School Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:15 PM

Tardiness and Attendance:
Student attendance is taken in the classroom promptly at 8:00 AM. Students arriving after that time are considered tardy.

Arriving on time helps children begin their day calmly and confidently, ensuring they don’t miss important morning routines, directions, or social interactions that set the tone for learning. Research shows that frequent tardiness in elementary school can negatively affect academic achievement, disrupt classroom instruction, and contribute to increased anxiety or disengagement over time. Establishing strong attendance habits early is one of the best predictors of future school success.

We understand mornings can be busy, and we appreciate your ongoing efforts to get students to school on time—it truly makes a difference!

 

---

Morning Drop-Off Reminders

• Please pull forward as far as possible before stopping. (New signage has been added to improve efficiency as colder weather approaches.)
   
• Remain in your vehicle—please do not open or close the driver’s side doors.
   
• Students should enter and exit only from the passenger side.
   
• If you need an alternative drop-off or pick-up arrangement, please contact the office—we’re happy to help.
   

 

---

Our students have been amazing, our routines are in full swing, and the year is off to a fantastic start. Thank you to our dedicated teachers, staff, and families for making the Hood School such a vibrant and caring community.

Here’s to another great month ahead!

Warm regards,
Mr. Glen McKay
Principal, J. Turner Hood Elementary School

Click on the link below for all North Reading Public School News.

All School News