9051_LGP_MechanicFalls_2024AnnualReport_Web

Dear Citizens of Mechanic Falls, At Elm Street School, we are dedicated to fostering a warm, inclusive environment where students, staff, and families feel valued and supported. Our mission is to inspire a love of learning, encourage kindness and compassion, and equip our students with the skills they need to succeed now and in the future. This school year, we’ve focused on improving student outcomes in literacy, mathematics, and attendance. With feedback from our staff, our leadership team set goals that directly reflect the needs of our students. To support this work, our educators have engaged in ongoing professional development, including training in the Science of Reading, LETRS, Orton-Gillingham, and the AIM Literacy Community of Practice. These efforts have deepened our understanding of effective reading instruction and enhanced our teaching practices. In math, our involvement with the Math 4 Maine initiative has helped us strengthen our approach to instruction and refine our curriculum to better support mathematical thinking across all grade levels. We’ve also prioritized student attendance through awareness events, student recognition, and family outreach to stress the importance of being present and engaged each day. Our professional development this year included collaborative study of practical, research-based texts selected by staff, designed to elevate student engagement and classroom learning. Elm Street School currently serves 235 students. Of these, 62.9% qualify for free or reduced lunch, 2.5% are multi-language learners, 21.7% receive special education services, and 6.8% qualify for 504 or health care plans. We are proud of our highly qualified staff, which includes 16 classroom teachers, 6 special education teachers, 5 specialists, 2 interventionists, 15 support staff, and 2 administrators. Many of our educators hold advanced degrees, including 15 with Master’s Degrees and several with additional certifications. As a Whole School Title I school, we provide targeted literacy and math support using a blend of in-class and small group instruction, serving 75 students in literacy and 69 in math. We are especially proud of our free, theme-based summer program, funded through Title I, which has served over 90 students in the past two years. This program blends academic practice with engaging, community-based activities that keep students learning and excited throughout the summer. Throughout the year, we host a variety of events that bring families and the community together. From Fire Safety Day with the Mechanic Falls Fire Department to Career Day featuring over 30 local professionals, our events are designed to connect learning to the real world. Our annual Title Night draws over 300 participants for a night of hands-on learning and fun, and our Wildcat Family Connection helps us host seven after-school events each year that strengthen family partnerships and celebrate our school community. We are grateful for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are building a strong foundation for our students and helping them grow into confident, compassionate learners. Warmly, Jess Madsen Principal, Elm Street School Mechanic Falls, Maine

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