Message from the Principal’s Office
MJ,
This week, our school community gathered for an energizing All-School Meeting focused on one of our most important core values: Responsibility. It was wonderful to see our students and staff together, reflecting on how our individual actions contribute to the success of our entire school community.
During our time together, we focused on two specific ways we are practicing responsibility right now:
Stewardship of Our Spaces
We challenged students to take greater responsibility for their personal belongings. By keeping track of coats, water bottles, and backpacks, and ensuring they are stored properly, our students play a vital role in keeping our hallways and classrooms safe and orderly. When we all do our part to manage our "gear," it shows respect for our school environment and the people who share it.
A Legacy Decision: Our New School Mascot
I am also thrilled to announce that we are officially beginning the process to determine our school mascot! We discussed with the students that choosing a mascot is a great responsibility—not just to ourselves, but to all the students who will walk these halls in the future. We want a symbol that represents our spirit and values for years to come. Over the next few weeks, students will have the opportunity to participate in a thoughtful selection process, practicing the responsibility of having a voice in their community.
How you can help at home:
Ask your child what they think makes a great school mascot.
Help them label their belongings to make "taking responsibility" for them a little easier!
We are so proud of the leadership our students are showing. Thank you for partnering with us to raise responsible, thoughtful citizens.
Matt
updated 1-15-2026
We are trying not to get ahead of ourselves but it’s already half way through January! Lots of things coming like the Valentine’s Dance and STEAM Fair Registration. A friendly reminder, it’s also never too late for MJ Gear. Perfect for birthdays, there’s always an opportunity to represent MJ spirit. It’s also never too late to contribute to our annual campaign and get that corporate match. Every little bit counts and helps fund all the great enrichments (and fun) that make MJ what it is. Enjoy the long weekend!
Bundled up by the fire,
Your PTO
SAVE THE DATES
Dine Out Jake n Joes - January 21st
Valentine’s Dance - February 6th
SEPAC Coffee Meet Up - February 11th (details)
PTO Meeting - March 3rd
DINE OUT
Gather your friends and family and head to Jake n Joes (Norwood, rt 1) on Wednesday, January 21st, lunch, dinner or take out to support Martha Jones. Make sure to mention “Fundraiser” if you are dining in person. If you order online, select “Fundraiser” from the menu to add to your cart. 20% of sales will go directly to MJ.
VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE
The Martha Jones PTO is excited to welcome our school community to the Martha Jones Valentine’s Dance on Friday, February 6th. This special evening will be a fun celebration of friendship and school spirit, featuring a DJ, photobooth, crafts, snacks, and sweet treats.
This event is designed for MJS students and their caregivers to enjoy time together in a festive, welcoming space. Please note that this is not a drop-off event, and attendance is limited to students who attend MJS and their caregivers. We kindly ask that siblings who do not attend MJS not attend.
This year, families are also invited to spread a little extra love through an optional donation to the Westwood Youth & Family Services Birthday Giving Program. Donations may be made by bringing an item from the Amazon Wishlist or purchasing directly from the list and having it sent to WYFS.
Amazon Wishlist: http://bit.ly/3LvJzw4
We look forward to celebrating with you! ♥️
Join the PTO!
We are actively looking to fill board positions for next year. A board seat is a two year commitment, with a “shadow year” to learn the ropes. Questions? Reach out to Ally or Lisa to learn more!
ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION DRIVE
We are sooooo close!! We aim to raise $7,500 from our annual PTO drive. Every donation, no matter the amount, is appreciated and important in helping us continue to fund enrichment and community activities. Please consider making a contribution today! We recommend a contribution of $50 for families with one student and $100 for families with two or more students.
Donate based on what feels comfortable for your family and your financial situation. Every amount, big or small, is greatly appreciated.
As a reminder, we also have a Corporate Match option. Many employers offer matching donations because MJS PTO is a qualified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
BIRTHDAY BOOKS
Participate in the PTO Birthday Book Program! Ms. Swinning has selected some fantastic books that students have requested, but the Martha Jones library does not currently have. During their birthday month, participating children are invited to the library to pick a brand new book from this collection. A bookplate commemorating your child’s birthday will be placed inside the front cover and they will be the very first student to borrow this book! Once they’ve finished reading it, the book will be returned to the library’s collection, where it can be enjoyed for years to come. The cost of this program is $15 per student.
Martha Jones PTO Meeting Dates 2025-2026
March 3, 2026, 7pm
May 5, 2026, 7pm
PTO CONTACT FOR EVENTS, NOTICES:
If you have an event or notice for our PTO update, please email it to:
PTO Co-Secretary - Jenn Katsilieris, Erika Gauthier
Martha Jones PTO Board 2025-2026
Ally Pavlic, Co-President
Lisa Lennon, Co-President
Abbe Lynch, Co-Treasurer
Monisha Dabek, Co-Treasurer
Jenn Katsilieris, Co-Secretary
Erika Gauthier, Co-Secretary
Priya Sharma, Co-Social Media
Gina Ciampolillo, Co-Social Media
Lauren Fortin, SEPAC
