'I was sent to Fernald School at age 8 in 1954. I had loved my foster home. Fernald School was mostly horrible in those days--mean matrons, punishment by sadistic stuff, and no way to keep any personal belonging--it got stolen. There were, however, a few really nice staff--Mr. Healey, Miss Lynch, Ma Bell, and, my very most favorites, Miss Bagley, LPN, and Dr. Farrell, Superintendent. At some point Fernald School had a terrible shortage of nurses, which they finally remedied by recruiting from the matrons and attendants who showed intelligence and academic skill to attend a year-long class in which they would be trained as practical nurses. Because this training was specific to the needs of Fernald School, certain areas of LPN training were not covered. Therefore, their LPN licenses were marked 'can work only in State Schools.' They were called 'Waivered LPNs' because their licenses were restricted. Miss Bagley was well-loved by almost all of us. I was her 'pet' and people teased me about that. She took me home with her sometimes on her days off (Sunday/Monday). She took me shopping too. I loved her with all my heart. When I finally had help to find her, she was already dead 3 years. I cried and cried at the grave. Dr. Farrell was always good to me. He gave me candy sometimes, and $10.00 at Christmas. Pictured: Grace Estelle Bagley (top row, 2nd from left) and Dr. Malcolm Farrell, superintendent (front row, wearing suit). Location: Walter E. Fernald State School.'
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