New Staff, Progams, Services at Reading Public Schools

Not only did Wednesday mark the first day of school for kids in the Reading Public School district, it also represented the beginning of 30 new teachers' careers at the schools, and the launch of a variety of new programs.

Alison Elmer, the new Director of Student Services, has joined Reading from Boston Public Schools and will be making herself at home in the upcoming days.

Students at encountered a new face in their hallways on Wednesday; her name is Beth Beaulieu, and she will be joining Parker's staff as the new assistant principal. Beaulieu formally held the position of curriculum coordinator at Salem Public Schools.

New faces aren't the only change students can expect this year, while new programs and groups will begin to make their mark.

Students have the chance to participate in the "A World of Difference Program." This anti-bullying program was started by the Anti-Defamation League, and teaches participants to prevent incidents of bullying while creating a more friendly classroom environment. 

Similarly, along with additional anti-bullying training, members of Reading Public Schools' students and staff will be exposed to the "Open Circle Program," a program that focuses on ethics and good decision making.

The local middle schools have additionally embraced the "Second Step" program, a program focused on gearing students away from risky behaviors and promoting success.

"The 'Second Step' Program involves helping Middle School aged kids make good decisions and deal with conflicts," said Superintendent John Doherty.

Some other changes include the Special Education Department at .

There is now an "Office of Learning and Teaching" that merges functions of the assistant superintendent and director of student services. Assistant Superintendent Patty de Garavilla and Alison Elmer, the new director fo student services, will endeavor to generate more communication between students and staff, as well as promote an improved teaching environment.

"We wanted to provide a seamless, integrated service for all kids [to take advantage of]," said Doherty.The new learning office will ultimately aim to eliminate any divide felt between special education students and the rest of their classmates.

As far as physical changes that will be seen to Reading Schools in the upcoming months, and new roof for  is nearly complete, and can look forward to new windows as early as October.