Medford Teacher Writes Children’s History Book

Michael Coates, a third grade teacher at the Brooks Elementary School, has written a book entitled Our Medford: An Elementary Guide to the History of Medford. Mr. Coates researched his facts and worked in conjunction with the Medford Historical Society to ensure that the book was accurate.

“I grew up here. Medford's history is important and I did not want it to be ignored or under-appreciated. Our local history should be taught and celebrated. It should be a part of our learning standards,” said Coates.

This year, Coates book will be piloted in all third grade classrooms at the Brooks. With the approval of the administration and School Committee, he hopes all third grades in the Medford Public Schools will use the book as part of the Social Studies curriculum next year.

Once the book was written, Mr. Coates had to figure out how to get it printed. He approached Barry Sloane, President and CEO of Century Bank who graciously agreed to pick up the cost of the printing. In addition, Mr. Sloane offered to also help with the printing costs for next year.

“This book was a collaboration and my dream would not have come to fruition without the generous assistance of not only Century Bank, but also the Medford Historical Society and Museum, Sue Gerould, Allison Andrews, Dee Morris, Michael Bradford, Dr. Philip Amato, Elizabeth Taylor, and Will Tenney. In addition, the Medford Arts Council provided grant funding. I would also like to thank the Medford Public Schools Administration for their support along with the support of the Medford School Committee,” said Coates.

Pictured, left to right: Dr. Nicole Chiesa, Director, English Language Arts & Social Studies, School Committee Member Kathy Kreatz, Tom Coates, Brother of Michael Coates, Author Michael Coates, Maria Coates, wife of Michael Coates, School Committee Member Paulette Van der Kloot, President & CEO of Century Bank Barry Sloane, School Committee Member Robert Emmet Skerry, Jr., Mayor Stephanie Muccini Burke, School Committee Member Erin DiBenedetto, Allison Andrews, Medford Historical Society, School Committee Member Mea Mustone, Assistant Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Dr. Bernadette Ricciardelli, Curriculum Director, School Committee Member Ann Marie Cugno, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson and Superintendent of Schools Roy Belson.

– Submitted by the Medford Public Schools