About Us
Meet Our Administration Team
Principal
Dr. Marguerite Simpson-Lackard, Principal
My background is in pediatric medicine, and I later transitioned to education. For 19 years, I served as a middle school algebra teacher, Math Department Head, Vice Principal at Walsh Middle School. I hold a Doctorate in Medicine from the State University of New York School of Medicine, a Master’s degree in Administrative Leadership from Endicott College in partnership with the Massachusetts School Administrators Association, and a Master’s degree in Education from Cambridge College.
My educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that all students can learn. I strongly embrace a growth mindset and am committed to supporting students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative, positive school culture where every child thrives.
I am honored to serve as Principal of Hemenway Elementary School. Now in my third year, I look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the Hemenway community to ensure the best possible learning experience for every student!
Matthew McDowell
Vice Principal
Office Support Staff
School Information
Contact Information
Phone Number: 508-626-9149
Fax: 508-877-2262
School Hours
Breakfast: 9:00am – 9:15am
Full Day: 9:15am – 3:30pm
Early Release: 9:15am – 1:05pm (Lunch is served)
Half Day: 9:15am – 12:30pm (Lunch is not served)
Nurse Information
Mary Zentis
Direct Line: 508-782-6302
About Hemenway
Hemenway is a school where student instruction is based upon the belief that all students can learn and achieve at high levels. Hemenway teachers work collaboratively to design lessons to ensure that all students, who possess a wide variety of learning styles and challenges, can access and master the curriculum standards. We are committed to the belief that all students can learn with high levels of achievement. We provide clearly defined, high expectations for student learning across all curriculum areas.
This year as a staff, we will continue to focus and to work together to develop teaching moves, routines and strategies that promote “making student thinking visible,” which will ensure that all students are engaged in meaningful learning across the curriculum. In addition to high academic standards, we have high standards for student behavior.
At Hemenway, we use Second Step, Code of Character and Conducts, and PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Supports) , which focuses on social-emotional learning [SEL] in grades kindergarten through grade five. Social and emotional learning is the process of developing essential social emotional skills, knowledge, and attitudes related to five key areas: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Hemenway School’s PBIS team, in collaboration with staff and administration, has developed the HemenWAY Positive Behavior Matrix and implemented the Hemenway PAWsitive Behavioral Intervention Program. The PAWSitive Behavior Program is based upon a systemic approach to proactive, explicitly taught and practiced behavioral expectations for school-wide behavior and the Response to Intervention model. As a school we are continuing to focus on further developing our positive behavioral interventions and supports. Our goal is for all students to increase their academic performance, to improve school safety and to continue to build upon our positive school culture.
We strive to create a learning environment where students learn through real-life experiences. Students learn by integrating and connecting math concepts into their daily lives, experiencing hands-on science, and viewing themselves as life-long readers and writers. Our goal is to provide students with the necessary skills to be true world citizens, as well as to acquire twenty-first century skills to succeed in college and the workplace.
Hemenway Vision Statement
Our vision is to cultivate a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that prioritizes excellence in instruction and fosters a culture of collaboration among educators. We are committed to ensuring that every student feels a strong sense of belonging and is empowered to reach their fullest potential. Together, we strive to nurture a growth mindset in all members of our school community, embracing diversity and promoting mutual respect and understanding. Through our collective efforts, we aim to inspire lifelong learners who are prepared to contribute positively to the world.