Haggerty Holler: May 23, 2025

Posted on 05/23/2025

STEAM Night

On Thursday, May 15th the Haggerty Community gathered together for the 10th annual STEAM night! It has become a crowd favorite and this year we had 15 engaging stations for students/families to participate. We are so grateful to our community partners, caregivers and staff members who organized and supported one of the stations. Activities included a bionic dog, rocket building, light diffraction, buoyancy experiments, two wind tunnels, Lego robotics, coding with bee bots, math games, origami, orienteering, the basics of theatrical lighting, pattern and measurement making, seed planting, and fiber lamp making. Big thanks to Robohub, Math Circle, Lesley STEAM Learning Lab, Margaret from the Collins Library, Darl Packard (caregiver), Amanda Prince and Levi Watkin (caregivers), Carroll Magill (former caregiver), Lucy and Imogen Wu (former Haggerty students), Jenny Talbot (former caregiver) and Toby Webster (former Haggerty student), Karen and Fik Brushett (caregivers), Kevin McGonegal (staff), Brianna Mency (staff), Anthony Reynolds (staff), and Margie Singer (staff). As well as many caregiver volunteers! This was a real team effort - and everyone’s efforts were so appreciated. We’d also like to thank Friends of Haggerty and Title I for supporting this event!

5th Grade’s adventures at Outdoor Classroom

Hi, we are Josh and Roy and we’re both fifth graders at Haggerty. Our Haggerty 5th grade recently went to Outdoor Classroom in Great Barrington, MA April 3th through May 2nd. While there, we had an amazing time. From getting lost in the woods, to the dorms themselves, it was truly an experience!

While hiking for hours was lots of fun, we needed to get our energy.

The meals at the Outdoor Classroom were exquisite. These meals included a healthy mix of things, such as: apples, milk, cereal, french toast, and so much more. Each meal was different and they put so much effort into preparing every aspect. If there was a way to rate them, I’d definitely give them 5 stars.

\Most of the daylight was spent doing fun outdoor activities like roasting marshmallows and getting lost in the woods. Of course there were some obstacles while hiking. Field groups were led by two awesome group leaders, who took us around the grounds and we learned about teamwork and other important life skills while helping each other. We also had classes that we could choose from, like wood carving and building a ten foot geo-dome. Later at night we had quiet singing, which is really fun for those who like singing but feel embarrassed, because you’re singing with a group. After this we would head back to our dorms.

We were so glad to be in such comfortable dorms. We were out in the middle of nature and they had sparkling clean bathrooms and a fan! This was truly an experience. The beds were comfortable and even though we weren’t allowed to have any form of a clock, we could depend on the light outside. We would then set up our sleeping bags/sheets, and end our day So despite all the nature made death traps while hiking, we had tremendous fun.

This all wouldn’t be possible without fundraising and our parents. Thank you Friends of Haggerty, thank you to our parents, teachers, and Lissa and Ms Campbell.

By: Josh C. and Roy P.

Arbor Day at Haggerty

On Monday, May 12th, the City of Cambridge celebrated Arbor Day at the Haggerty School by planting a new tree with the help of our 5th graders. Mayor Denise Simmons and members of Cambridge’s Urban Forest staff, including City Arborist Dan Lefcourt, were in attendance. The ceremony began on the front steps with the Haggerty chorus singing the song “Grow, Little Tree” by Andrea Ramsey. After the performance, the fifth graders joined the Arborist to learn more about trees, the Serviceberry tree they were planting, and the urban forest initiative in the city - each year, Cambridge adds more than 1200 trees to its streets and public spaces! Serviceberries (Amelanchier, part of the rose family) are native flowering trees that provide much-needed food for pollinators in the spring with their delicate white blooms, as well as a welcome treat for birds and wildlife when they produce their fruit in June. (Their pink-to-purple berries are also edible for humans, and are said to taste like a cross between a blueberry and a blackberry.) Once the Arborist had the tree in position, the 5th graders, their teachers and other members of the staff helped to shovel soil to cover the roots. The tree planting is the first step in a complete landscaping redesign of the entrance along Cushing Street, and will have at least 3 more new trees planted by the start of summer.

Fifth Grade Visit Northeastern’s Marine Science Center in Nahant

On Thursday, May 15th the fifth graders visited the Northeastern’s Marine Science Center in Nahant, MA. The students spent time on the rocky foreshore testing tide pools for temperature and salinity, then collecting specimens like different types of crabs, mollusks, and seaweed. Later they were able to tour some of the campus there and meet scientists who are working in the Ocean Genome Legacy Center, on marine plant propagation initiatives and in studies of Sea Star Wasting Disease. One of the highlights of the day was the time they spent in the seawater touch tanks and were able to hold, interact with, and see up close critters from the low, mid, and high intertidal zones and habitats: American lobsters, hermit crabs, flounder, sea urchins, rock gunnels, Northern moon snails, spider crabs, etc. Thanks to the CPS Science Department and the Friends of Haggerty for this amazing experience!

Helping Your Child to Become an Independent Learner

Monday, June 9 | 6-7PM | Zoom
Workshop presented by Principal Intern Shelley Irvin and Tufts Professor Dr. Noelle Roop. 3 $25 gift cards raffled off. Register here >>

Library Corner

Upcoming Author Visit with Colleen AF Venable

We are excited to share that on May 29, 2025, we will host the talented author and graphic novel creator, Colleen AF Venable, for students in grades 4-5. Renowned for her captivating storytelling and colorful illustrations, Colleen will engage with students to foster their creativity and imagination while also discussing her series, "Katie the Catsitter."

CAAC

The generosity of the Chinese American Association of Cambridge has enabled CPS Libraries to enhance our AAPI collections. Thanks to their support, we can now acquire more books that not only reflect our student population but also provide valuable insights into various cultures and histories.This provides students with the chance to engage with literature that serves as a window, mirror, or sliding glass door.

Math Coach’s Corner

One important part of math is Geometry - the study of shapes and how they relate to each other. At STEAM night, attendees explored the geometric concept of symmetry with regular and special pattern blocks. They figured out how many lines of symmetry were in their creations. Check out these examples - then look for symmetry in the world as you are out and about with your child. Symmetry is all around us - in nature, in art, in buildings - everywhere!

One line of symmetry:

Two lines of symmetry:

These creations have three or more lines of symmetry. Can you find the lines?

Literacy Corner by Suzanne Russell

All That Jazz
In Grade 3, as part of our All That Jazz Research Unit, all students learned about some of the greatest Jazz Musicians and singers of all time: Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Bessie Smith - just to name a few. Students learned how to design research questions, collect information, recognize primary and secondary sources and yes, our 3rd graders are learning to paraphrase and cite their sources. Each student completed a research essay on a jazz artist of their choice from a selected group of artists. As a final celebration, students were partnered with classmates across the 3rd grade homerooms. It was a special unit for students and educators, we were inspired and wowed by the talent and grit demonstrated by so many of these early Jazz musicians. Please be sure to ask your child about their presentation. If you play a Jazz instrument, and would like to schedule a classroom concert--please get in touch with us. We’d love to hear some Jazz from local artists!

Please reach out to [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] if you’re interested in playing Jazz for our classrooms.

Art Corner by Anthony Reynolds

The Whole School Haggerty Art Show on May 20th was a smashing success! Lots of family and friends came, and the work looked wonderful! Below is a photo of students reading a young artist's artist statement and examples of the artwork. Thank you to the caregiver volunteers who were able to help!

Music Corner

Haggerty’s Annual Spring Concert
Friday, June 6 | 8 - 9:15AM (approx)
CPP - Grade 4 and the Haggerty Chorus! Students please dress your best. Caregiver Coffee will be 7:35 - 8AM in cafeteria.

5th Grade Instrumental Music Spring Concert
Tuesday, June 3 | 5PM | Fitzgerald Theatre @ CRLS 459 Broadway Street, Cambridge
Musical performances by students from Cambridgeport, Haggerty, Morse, and Tobin. Parents, please note the following:

Please make sure that your child attends the correct performance. Students need to arrive 30 minutes before the concert begins.
Please make sure that your child brings their instrument home from school to use for the concert!
NOTE: THE CONCERT IS NOT AT YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL
What to Wear? Black pants and white dress shirt/blouse or Nice dress/skirt Dress pants and dress shirt Wear something to help celebrate the occasion that makes you comfortable!

Please let us know if you have any questions and we hope to see you on Tuesday, June 3rd!
Tony Babecka - Woodwinds

Haggerty School Advisory Council Ballot (2025)

What is a School Advisory Council? A school-based group responsible for assisting and advising the Principal in setting educational goals, identifying educational needs, reviewing the school budget, and implementing a School Improvement Plan.

A ballot has been shared on Parent Square, that includes information about the caregivers (listed alphabetically) who have been nominated to the Haggerty School Council this year. We need 3 new representatives to join our current 1 remaining caregiver representative (Chris Cullen).

Please read the short descriptions of each candidate, and vote for 3 caregivers.

Voting will be open from May 14 - May 28th.

Each Haggerty caregiver is asked to complete only one ballot. Need a paper version? Please ask Lissa.

Ballots are in Parent Square, and a flyer with QR code came home in backpack express.

Questions, please ask Lissa or Borjan Gagoski (FOH)

Thanks for your help, Lissa

Haggerty Day is Coming Thursday, June 12th (Rain Date: June 13th)

Save the Date for this fun school-wide block party! Parents/Caregivers are invited to join the fun! You can help with a station or join your child’s classroom during their time block.

Times for Specific Grades at Haggerty Day
Preschool & Kindergarten - 9:15 - 10:30AM
1st & 2nd Grade - 10:35 - 11:50AM
3rd & 4th & 5th Grade - 11:55AM - 1:40PM

Resources

Food, Nutrition, & Gardening

For Harvest of the Month this May, we have - Seafood!
- Norah’s Nutrition Nook:
  - Seafood encompasses both fish and shellfish, but different species provide different benefits to health. Fish and shellfish are excellent heart healthy protein options due to the low saturated fat content. Fattier fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and trout, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are a type of unsaturated fat that have been shown to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve lipid levels and prevent heart disease.
  - Shellfish are rich in some micronutrients, especially zinc. Zinc plays a crucial role in immune health and wound healing! An important note to make for shellfish - some naturally run higher in sodium content. This is important to consider for some heart and blood pressure conditions.
  - There are some concerns around mercury levels in seafood. See the chart below for guidance from the EPA and FDA on which seafood options are lower in mercury
  - See some seafood recipe options below!
Farmers Market season is here! Central Square’s market is now open. To celebrate, HEAL joined to discuss growing and utilizing herbs in place of salt for flavor in cooking. Today, Davis Square’s market opens, and on May 29th, the Kendall Square market will open as well! Stay tuned for future collaborations and community events.
In honor of National Mental Health Awareness Month, HEAL held an activity on mindful eating this week with our colleagues at the CPHD while enjoying a “Make Your Own Personalized Charcuterie Board” snack time! Here are some helpful ways to integrate mindful eating:
- Create intentionality with your food
- Minimize distractions while eating
- Engage all your senses with breath and time as you eat
- Listen to the cues your body sends as you are eating

Mind, Movement, & More

Storywalk Cambridge | Wednesday, May 28 | 5:30-7PM
Join the Center for Families and Agenda for Children for Storywalk Cambridge at Donnelly Field!
Registration for different sports leagues are open for the summer! Please note, registration is required. See below for more information on specific leagues:
- Basketball Leagues
- Youth Street Hockey League

Please reach out if there are any food, nutrition, or physical activity projects/ ideas you think the Cambridge in Motion team could help with and don't forget to follow our team on Instagram @CambMotion.

Share Your Feedback…Take the District and School Culture Survey Today

The District and School Culture Survey (formerly known as the District and School Climate Survey) is now open.

We are eager to continue to from you as we strive to continue to provide high quality learning experiences that meet the needs of all of our scholars. As we have shared, we have partnered with Panorama Education for the survey. Panorama safeguards your privacy, keeping your responses confidential.

You may complete the survey online through next Friday, May 30. Take the survey here.

Upcoming Community Events

Cambridge Asian Festival
Saturday, May 24 | 11AM - 3PM | Cambridge Street Upper School (850 Cambridge Street)
Enjoy an improv workshop, Asian American Experiences class civic projects, food, art activities and more! The Cambridge-Somerville Asian Festival is free fun for the whole family!

FREE Family Music Festival
Sunday, June 1 | 12-3PM | Lowell School Park
Join the New School of Music and transform Lowell School Park into the ultimate hub of community, fun, music, and art. From toe-tapping performances to epic lawn games, crafty creations, and an “instrument petting zoo” — we’ve got it all, even an ice cream truck! (Ice cream available for purchase.)

Performances include an NSM student recital kicking off at 12:15PM, followed by faculty recital at 1:15PM. We'll be jamming rain or shine, so mark your calendars and get ready to connect with Cambridge neighbors and have some fantastic musical fun with NSM.

View flyer for more information.

Cambridge Welcomes!
Friday May 31 | 5 - 8PM | Cambridge Main Library Front Lawn 449 Broadway Cambridge, MA 02138
Join the Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship (CIRC) for a celebration to welcome and appreciate Cambridge’s Immigrant communities. All are welcome! This event will feature music, performances, facepainting, refreshments, community resources, and activities for families. Free entry. No registration required. Rain location: Cambridge Rindge and Latin School Cafeteria (459 Broadway Ct, Cambridge, MA 02138)

For more details, please view the online event page here.

VPA Awards Night
Wednesday, May 28 | 5:30-7PM | Media Cafe
This event is a potluck, please bring food/or beverages to share! Join us for an evening of celebration. All CRLS Visual & Performing Arts students, current and past, and their families/caregivers are invited! View flyer for more information.

Chinese Immersion Summer Camp @ Harvard Brillante Academy
June 23 - August 29 | 8:30AM - 5:30PM | 90 Hamilton St. Cambridge, MA 02139
This summer, Harvard Brillante Academy is offering a two Chinese immersion summer camp for children ages 0-5 and 6-12. Youth can also apply to be camp councilors. Apply online today. For more information, please view our website or flyer here.

Nory Summer STEM Programs for Children ages 3 - 12
June 23 - August 14 | Greater Cambridge Area (Multiple Locations)
Explore scholarship opportunities for Nory summer programs focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Programs serve children ages 3 - 12. Half day and full day programs are available. Learn more and explore Nory STEM summer programs here.

Cambridge Community Pride Day
Friday, June 6 | 3:30 - 6PM | Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, Arts Building (459 Broadway Ct.)
LGBTQ+ identifying individuals and allies are invited to attend Cambridge Community Pride Day! Enjoy family-friendly student performances, a student art show, face paint, food, and more!

Need Free Social Studies Activities this Summer?
Check out upcoming free Social Studies activities over the summer here.

Dance for World Community Festival
Saturday, June 7 | 12-6PM | Harvard Square
On June 7, we will be having our 15th annual Dance for World Community Festival in Harvard Square. The festival is a free, public, all-day event featuring performances and classes from over 60 local dance companies, as well as over 20 social justice organizations and non-profits designed to raise awareness about dance and its potential to address social and environmental issues. Performances and classes will be held across outdoor stages along Mass Ave and inside JMBT studios. Advocacy organization partners will also be set up along Mass Ave in addition to local artists, businesses, and food vendors.

Cambridge Mini Maker’s Market Youth Craft Fair
Sunday, June 1 | 2-4PM | King Open School, Cambridge, MA
Register your young creative child as a vendor or save-the-date to shop. This craft market sells handmade goods created by kids. Learn more about the Mini Maker’s Market here.

Middlesex County 4-H Fifes & Drums
The Middlesex County 4-H Fifes and Drums is actively recruiting new members who want to learn how to play the fife, snare drum, or bass drum. Composed of youth aged 8 to 18, the corps has performed at Boston's First Night festivities, Drummer's Call in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, and Concord's Patriots' Day ceremonies. The corps is led by its members, who elect their leaders and determine their events and repertoire each season. We offer music instruction in the fife and drum at weekly practices in Lincoln on Sunday afternoons. For more information, reach out at [email protected] or mc4hfd.org.

Snack of the Week