1 LT Charles W. Whitcomb School

Serving the vibrant city of Marlborough, Massachusetts, the 1 LT Charles W. Whitcomb School provides a dynamic and supportive learning environment for students in grades 6 through 8. As the sole public middle school within the Marlborough Public Schools district, Whitcomb School plays a pivotal role in guiding students through the critical and transformative adolescent years. The school is named in honor of 1st Lieutenant Charles W. Whitcomb, a local war hero, instilling a sense of pride, sacrifice, and civic responsibility in the school community. This guide explores the academic programs, supportive systems, and unique character that define the Whitcomb Middle School experience.

A Name Honoring Service and Sacrifice

The school's name pays tribute to 1st Lieutenant Charles W. Whitcomb, a Marlborough native who was killed in action during the Vietnam War and posthumously awarded the Silver Star for gallantry. This namesake provides a powerful foundation for the school's culture, emphasizing values of courage, integrity, and service to the community—themes that are often integrated into the school's ethos and character education programs.

Academic Programs and Curriculum

The academic program at Whitcomb School is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and is designed to challenge students academically while supporting their social and emotional growth.

• Departmentalized Instruction: Students transition between subject-specific teachers for core academic areas, including English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. This structure helps prepare them for the organizational demands of high school.
• Rigorous Coursework: The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and engaging, with opportunities for students to take advanced or honors-level classes in core subjects, setting a strong foundation for Advanced Placement (AP) and other challenging courses in high school.
• Exploratory and Elective Courses: A key feature of the middle school model is the chance for students to explore various interests. Whitcomb offers elective courses in areas such as World Languages (like Spanish), Technology, Art, Music (Band/Chorus), and Family & Consumer Sciences.
• STEM Integration: Science and Math curricula incorporate hands-on, project-based learning to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to the 21st century.
• Literacy Across the Curriculum: A school-wide focus on literacy ensures that students continue to develop their reading comprehension, writing, and analytical skills in all subject areas.

The School Culture and Community

Navigating the middle school years can be challenging, and Whitcomb School is committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and safe environment for all students.

• "Whitcomb Wildcats" Spirit: The school mascot, the Wildcat, helps build a strong, unified school identity. Spirit days, team-based activities, and school-wide events foster a sense of belonging.
• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS): The school likely implements PBIS to proactively establish and reinforce positive behavioral expectations, creating a respectful and productive climate for learning.
• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Recognizing the importance of this developmental stage, the school integrates SEL into the curriculum and advisory programs, helping students develop self-awareness, manage emotions, and build healthy relationships.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Marlborough is a diverse community, and Whitcomb School reflects that diversity. The school celebrates different cultures and promotes an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels valued.

Student Support Services

A comprehensive support system is essential for middle school students, and Whitcomb provides multiple layers of assistance.

• Advisory Program: Students typically belong to a small advisory group led by a staff member. This provides a "home base" for students, offering academic check-ins, social-emotional support, and community building.
• School Counseling Department: A team of school counselors is available to support students with academic planning, personal issues, and the transition to high school. They play a crucial role in helping students navigate the challenges of adolescence.
• Academic Support Teams: For students who need extra help, the school offers additional academic support, such as tutoring, study skills workshops, and targeted interventions in literacy and math.
• Special Education Services: The school provides a full continuum of services for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring they receive the specialized instruction and support they need to succeed.

Extracurricular Activities and Athletics

Whitcomb School offers a rich array of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore interests, develop talents, and connect with peers outside the classroom.

• Athletics: The school fields competitive sports teams that compete in the Middle School Athletic Conference. Sports may include soccer, basketball, track and field, and more, promoting teamwork and school spirit.
• Clubs and Organizations: Students can participate in various clubs based on their interests, such as Student Council, Drama Club, Art Club, Robotics, or Yearbook. These groups are vital for social development and leadership.

Admissions and Enrollment

As the public middle school for the city of Marlborough, enrollment is based on residency within the city limits.

1. Verify Marlborough Residency: Families must provide proof of residence within the city of Marlborough.
2. Complete Registration: Registration for new students is managed by the Marlborough Public Schools district. This typically involves submitting an online application along with required documents (proof of residency, birth certificate, immunization records).
3. Transition from Elementary: For students moving up from Marlborough's elementary schools, the transition to Whitcomb is a coordinated process involving visits and orientation events.
4. School Tours: Prospective families can contact the school office at (508) 460-3502 to inquire about scheduling a tour or attending an open house.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What grades does 1 LT Charles W. Whitcomb School serve?

The Whitcomb School serves students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.

What is the school's address and phone number?

The school is located at 25 Union Street, Marlborough, MA 01752. The main phone number is (508) 460-3502.

Is Whitcomb School a public school?

Yes, it is the public middle school for the city of Marlborough, part of Marlborough Public Schools (MPS).

Who was Charles W. Whitcomb?

The school is named in honor of 1st Lieutenant Charles W. Whitcomb, a Marlborough native and Silver Star recipient who died serving in the Vietnam War.

What is the school mascot?

The school mascot is the Wildcat.

What supports are available for students transitioning from elementary school?

The school offers orientation programs, an advisory system, and a supportive counseling department to help 6th graders adjust to the middle school environment.

Does the school offer sports and clubs?

Yes, Whitcomb School offers a variety of athletic teams and extracurricular clubs to engage students beyond the academic curriculum.

How are honors/advanced classes handled?

The school typically offers advanced or honors-level coursework in core subjects for eligible students. Specific placement criteria can be obtained from the school counseling department.

Conclusion

The 1 LT Charles W. Whitcomb School is more than just a middle school; it is a community dedicated to nurturing adolescents during a pivotal time in their lives. With a strong academic program, a focus on character development, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, Whitcomb prepares students not only for the academic rigors of high school but also to become responsible, resilient, and engaged young adults. For families in Marlborough, Whitcomb School provides a supportive and challenging bridge from childhood to adolescence.