Greetings, Lowell Families!

I am truly excited to share that we will welcome our teachers and staff back on Tuesday morning! Our team will spend three days participating in professional development, collaborative planning, and team-building activities as we prepare for a joyful and successful opening of school.

Lowell has long been fortunate to have a dedicated staff and very little turnover. I believe that when people enjoy what they do and feel connected to their work, they do their best—and our students benefit. This year, many of our staffing changes reflect familiar educators taking on new roles, colleagues transferring to Lowell from other Watertown schools, and the addition of the Learning Support Program to our school community.

This newsletter is dedicated to introducing our new staff members. You will find a photograph and a brief message from each of them. We are delighted to welcome them to Lowell, and I know our families will help them feel at home.

Meet Our Family Engagement Facilitator

I am also pleased to introduce our Family Engagement Facilitator, Raquel Mota Hays. Raquel is here to support Lowell families in any way she can. Her role is dedicated to helping families:

Raquel’s contact information is included in this newsletter. Please do not hesitate to reach out to her. She is here to help create a welcoming and accessible bridge between our families and the school.

More Information Is Coming

I know we are sharing a great deal of information as the new school year approaches. This newsletter focuses on our staff and upcoming events. Next week’s newsletter will be dedicated entirely to the first week of school and will include all the important “need-to-know” information about arrival, dismissal, daily routines, and school procedures.

Our Lowell Family Guide also contains helpful information about the many logistical aspects of the school day. We encourage all families to review it before school begins.

Important Reminders

Dear Families and Caregivers,

At Watertown Public Schools, we know that students learn best when they feel safe, connected, supported, and ready to learn. As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the whole child, teachers in grades K–5 will use a brief screening tool called SAEBRS (Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener) during the 2026–2027 school year.

SAEBRS is a brief questionnaire completed by a student’s teacher. Teachers use their knowledge of and experience with each student to reflect on behaviors they observe in the classroom and school setting. The questions focus on three areas that can affect a student’s ability to thrive at school:

SAEBRS is not a test, and it is not intended to diagnose a mental health, behavioral, or learning condition. Instead, it gives us another piece of information to help us understand how students are doing and determine whether additional support may be helpful.

Children communicate how they are doing in many different ways. Sometimes a student may be having a difficult time without asking for help or without adults immediately recognizing that they may need additional support.

SAEBRS helps us identify students who may benefit from additional support and helps us think proactively about how we can support students before concerns become more significant.

The information gathered through SAEBRS can help our schools:

SAEBRS is only one source of information. Results are considered alongside teacher observations, classroom performance, conversations with families and students, and other relevant information. A SAEBRS score does not determine whether a student has a diagnosis or automatically result in a particular intervention or service.

Teachers will complete SAEBRS twice during the school year—once in November and again in May. Using the screener at two points during the year allows us to better understand student needs over time and consider whether students may benefit from additional support.

SAEBRS information is handled confidentially and is shared only with appropriate school personnel in accordance with district policies and applicable privacy requirements. Information may be used to inform individual student support as well as schoolwide programming.

My name is Korinna Zorin Bersin (also known as Ms. Zorin) and I'm excited to be the speech-language pathologist at Lowell this year! I've worked in the Watertown Public Schools since 2016 with students in preschool through fifth grade. I received my MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Boston University and my BS in Speech and Hearing Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. I love helping students develop their communication skills and incorporating their interests into our sessions. Outside of school, I love going on adventures with my husband, 1 year old son, and our dog. I also enjoy crochet, reading, and playing board games. I look forward to being part of the Lowell community!

My name is Lizzy McElroy, and I am so excited to introduce myself! I have been teaching at Watertown Early Steps Preschool for the past 10 years, and this will be my first year at Lowell. I am eager to meet all of my new students and families and begin this exciting new journey together.

My goal is to create a classroom that feels warm, welcoming, safe, and fun, where every child feels comfortable being themselves, learning, exploring, and making new friends.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love going to the beach, reading a good book, and growing my lemon trees. I also enjoy trying new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen.

I am looking forward to getting to know each of you. I can't wait for a fun-filled year of learning, growing, and exploring!

Let's have a great school year!

Hello! My name is Emily Burke and I’m so excited to be part of the Lowell community! This will be my second year as the Learning Support Program (3-5) Teacher. It will be my fourth year working as a special education teacher. 

I’m dedicated to getting to know each student as an individual, celebrating their strengths, and finding ways to make learning accessible and meaningful. I believe strongly in inclusion and in creating meaningful opportunities for students to learn alongside their peers and be active members of their school community. I value working collaboratively with families and teachers to help each student feel successful and supported at school.

Outside of school, I love exploring bookstores and libraries, spending time with my family, and listening to music. I’m looking forward to a wonderful year and to working together to make this a positive and successful school year! 

Hello! My name is Gianna Schoenfelder, or Mrs. S for short! I am so excited to begin my role at Lowell as a Reading Specialist. I am looking forward to bringing my experience as a classroom teacher, special educator, and reading specialist, along with my training as an Orton-Gillingham practitioner, to support students in their reading growth. My hope for this year is to foster a love of learning and help make reading a more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable experience for all students. I can’t wait to get started and I am so excited for a wonderful year ahead!

Hello Lowell Community!

My name is Emily Walsh, and after a quick year away from WPS, I am thrilled to be back home at the Lowell! I taught third grade here for 13 years, and I am so excited to return in my new role as a fifth-grade classroom teacher. The Lowell community is such a special place, and I am looking forward to being back among the collaboration, community, and learning that happen here each and every day.

When I am not in the classroom, you can find me spending time with my family and friends, exploring Cape Cod, cheering on the Patriots and Celtics, and snuggling with my cat, Subaru. 

I’m looking forward to a great year!

Hi! My name is Kaitlin Baumann and this school year will be my second year at Lowell.

Before teaching second grade here at Lowell, I taught in Cambridge for 6 years. My time in Cambridge included three years as a First Grade Sheltered English Immersion teacher, general education teacher, and interventionist!

I attended Lesley University in Cambridge and earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Special Education. I am licensed in Early Childhood, Special Education, and English as a Second Language.

When I am not teaching, I love to read, organize, and go to the beach! I am so excited for this school year!

Hi everyone! My name is Emma Campion, and I am so excited to be joining the Lowell school community as the LSP K-2 teacher this year! I am especially excited to begin this new role and continue working with the wonderful students, families, and staff in Watertown. For the past two years I have had the privilege of working at the Hosmer school, where I loved getting to know my students and being part of such a supportive community there. 

I love finding creative ways to help my students build confidence and independence, develop new skills, and celebrate their progress along the way. I am so excited to be working with our younger learners and supporting them as they develop important academic, social, and emotional skills. I cannot wait to meet and get to know each student and learn about their unique strengths, interests, and learning styles. 

I am from Attleboro, MA and I currently live in Somerville with my sister. Outside of school, I love going to the beach, spending time with my friends and family, and doing lots of crafting! I feel so lucky to continue to be a part of the Watertown community and I am looking forward to getting to know all of you, and have an amazing year ahead! 

Hello! My name is Anne Malaquias Sudbay and I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of Math Interventionist at the Lowell. I’m excited to empower students to develop their math skills, build their confidence, and find joy in math. I am passionate about creating welcoming, inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. 

During my 20+ years at the Lowell, I’ve worn a number of hats: technology teacher, math teacher, and classroom teacher in grades 1, 4, and 5. I’ve also served in various leadership roles in our school and district that helped to shape teaching and learning, support teachers and staff, and strengthen our home-school connections.

When not at the Lowell, I love reading, music, soccer, cooking vegetarian dishes, and animals (especially my two tuxedo rescue cats). 

Looking forward to a great year together!

Hi Everyone! My name is Destinee Hunte, and I am excited to continue my work within the district as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the Learning Support Program at Lowell Elementary School. I have been a CNA for the past three years and have previously supported students at the Cunniff Elementary School. I am excited for this new opportunity at the Lowell and look forward to using my experience to support our students, promote their health and well-being, and help create a safe, caring, and inclusive school environment.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and family, traveling, and exploring new places. I also enjoy fashion, shopping, and finding time to relax and enjoy the little moments with the people I love.

I’m looking forward to a great year ahead and meeting everyone! 

Hi Lowell families! My name is Jimmy McQuade and I am so excited to be joining the Lowell Community this year as a fifth grade teacher. This is my first year in Watertown, but will be my fifth year teaching. I have taught both fourth and fifth grade. 

My goal is to create a welcoming classroom environment where all students are able to do their best learning. I am excited to collaborate with families and teachers this year to help all students be successful. 

Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to concerts, and watching and playing sports. 

I’m looking forward to a great school year! 

Hello! My name is Gabbie Chaput, and it is my first year here at Lowell. I am very excited to be a part of this community and to be able to work with new students and staff! 

I have been working at Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown as a Teaching Assistant for the past 3 years, which has furthered my passion for providing inclusive care for people with special needs. I am also starting my master’s program at Salem State University for Occupational Therapy in the fall! I look forward to bringing my experience in order to learn how to best support the students and the Lowell school.

Other than work and school, I love spending time outside in nature, painting, traveling, and more recently, pickleball. I can’t wait to start the year and to meet everybody!

Hello everyone! My name is Yaxeny Colón-Rivera (pronounced Ja-sen-ee), I’m happy to be called Ms.Yaxeny, Ms.Xeny, or Ms.Rivera, whichever you’re able to remember is okay with me! 

I’m currently a Lead Teacher for the Extended Day Program here at Lowell, where I grew a tremendous love for the staff, system, and children this past year.

I’ve been working closely with children of all ages since 2020, when I      started working at a daycare, and before that when I became an aunt to my  oldest nephew when I was only 8 years old. 

I now have 6 nephews with an age range from 6 to 18 years old, and have enjoyed every milestone, challenge, and accomplishment along the     way. 

Being an aunt and coming from a big family has shown me how to be both caring and direct at the same time, as well as using creative methods as tools for learning. 

I’m excited to step into this new role  as a long term sub for ISP, to implement constructive, mindful               guidance, and I look forward to meeting you all! 

Hello everyone! My name is Peter Lorensian, but students call me Mr. L.

After many years as a substitute teacher I was hired as an IA at Cunniff in 2018. While the new Cunniff building was being built, I briefly spent a year at the Lowell where the LSP was briefly stationed.

Now, after a number of years at Cunniff, both the LSP and I are returning to the Lowell. (I guess this leopard is changing its spots again.)

Outside of school I’m an active member of my church and the Pokémon community. As a certified Pokémon Professor I assist judging local TCG tournaments (when I’m not competing) and helping teach new players the card game.

May we all grow to our greatest potential!

Heather MacMunn, Occupational Therapist

Hello Lowell Community!

My name is Heather MacMunn, and this is my ninth year in Watertown!  I love finding creative ways to have fun during therapy sessions that are geared towards student interests and an increase in their independence. 

Outside of school, I love to be with my family and friends, enjoying new baked goods, reading books, or exploring different places!

I’m excited to meet everyone and have a great year!

Greetings Lowell Community! My name is Zack Tretheway (Mr. T) and I’m thrilled to be joining Lowell Elementary full-time as a Substitute Teacher. I’ve spent the past year working as a substitute around the Watertown School District and am very grateful to have found a home here at Lowell. 

Prior to here, I spent time tutoring SAT prep in Lawrence, MA, teaching after school writing programs in Lowell, MA, and tutoring students of all ages at Sylvan Learning Center. During my downtime you can find me engaging in any number of hobbies or spending time outside with my dog.

Looking forward to having a great year and meeting you all!

Hello! My name is Marisa Jones. This will be my fifth school year working with Watertown public schools. I spent the past four years working as an IA at the Cunniff. This will be my first year at the Lowell and I can’t wait! 

Outside of school I love spending time with my family. We love to go for drives and finding new places to explore. Earlier this year my husband and I welcomed our baby girl Sarah. 

I can’t wait to see what this school year brings! 

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD POLICE DEPARTMENT

The City of Watertown seeks to hire School Crossing Guards to work under the supervision of the Watertown Police Department.

Responsibilities include monitoring vehicles and pedestrian traffic at assigned crossings to assist school children crossing the streets, while providing for the orderly movement of traffic. Crossing guards must be able to communicate effectively with school children, parents, and drivers, ensure that children cross the street properly and safely. Must be able to stand for the entire shift and tolerate exposure to all types of weather conditions, maintain a high level of awareness, be reliable and can use judgement and work independently. This is an excellent position for recent retirees or those with morning and afternoon availability to want to contribute to their community in a meaningful way. All training and direction for these positions are provided by the Police Department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: High School diploma (or GED).

Must be available to work Monday through Friday, during the school year. Must be able to pass a CORI/SORI background check and preemployment physical. Crossing Guards must have excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to exercise sound judgement in the protection of our school children and their parents.

TERMS/HOURS: Approximately 10 hours per week. Shifts are approximately one hour each at the beginning and end of each school day. There are no shifts during the summer months or school vacations.

SALARY: $24.50 per hour to start with periodic increases. This position is not eligible for benefits or paid time off.

TO APPLY: Candidates must submit a City Application, along with a cover letter and resume, to recruiting@watertown-ma.gov.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JRLowellElementary

Principal: Stacy Phelan

Assistant Principal: Tara Rufo

Administrative Assistant: Kara Flynn

Receptionist: Jim Swift

Nurse: Kristen Thibodeau

Guidance Pre-K - 2: Melina Jacovides

Guidance 3-5: Brian Connors

School Psychologist: Kelley Starrett

Special Education Team Chair: Greg Roberts

LEDP Site Coordinator: Adam Vachon

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