Welcome
Thank you for visiting our website. I am honored to serve as the new principal of Memorial-Spaulding and to join you in continuing the strong tradition of excellence and care that defines our school community.
Memorial-Spaulding is situated in Newton’s Oak Hill Village. Our building, originally constructed in 1954 in the classic mid-century modern style, has grown alongside our community. It was expanded in the early 1960s and again in 2001. Today, we enjoy a campus with unique spaces that support creativity and connection: an auditorium with new seating and a reconditioned Steinert grand piano, a bright and airy art room, a large library with a constantly evolving children’s collection, and two outdoor learning spaces—Kayla’s Garden and the Library Courtyard.
Our name reflects a rich history as well. The school was first established as the Francis T. Spaulding School, honoring the late Dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. In the mid-1970s, when Newton’s Memorial School closed due to declining enrollment, our community came together, and Spaulding was renamed Memorial-Spaulding School, expanding to welcome students from Oak Hill Park.
Today, Memorial-Spaulding is home to approximately 360 students across 19 classrooms. Our students come from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds—nearly half speak a language other than English at home—and we are deeply proud of our diversity. Our staff is committed to ensuring that every child is known, loved, and supported so that they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We continue to emphasize learning through the arts, seeking creative ways to connect curriculum and foster curiosity, independence, and empathy in all of our learners.
I step into this role following Tom Morris, who first served here as a beloved music teacher and then as a dedicated principal. His care for students and families has left a lasting impact, and I know his presence will be missed. At the same time, I am confident our community is ready for this next chapter, and I look forward to leading with both continuity and fresh energy.
As your principal, my leadership is grounded in collaboration and service. I see my role as ensuring safety and creating the conditions for excellent teaching and joyful learning. I believe in leading from an asset-based perspective—honoring the strengths of our staff, students, and families—and in building a community where all members feel seen, valued, and connected. Above all, families can trust that our children will be cared for, challenged, and inspired to thrive every day at Memorial-Spaulding.
I look forward to partnering with you in the important work of nurturing, supporting, and empowering every student, every day.
With warmth and gratitude,
Jamie Yadoff
Principal, Memorial-Spaulding School
