Principal News

February 2026 Principal Message

Dear Families,

February has been a busy and exciting month here at school, and I’m grateful for the many ways our community continues to support our students.

We are wrapping up Racial Justice Action Week and it has been inspiring to see the meaningful connections students have made-- Students engaged in project-based learning with true voice and choice in shaping the direction of their work. Their thinking, background knowledge, creativity, and collaboration were exciting to see. We look forward to showcasing student work here at school as well as at the district celebration later this month.

Winter has certainly made itself known—this has been a true New England start to 2026! As a reminder, I am not able to announce the last day of school just yet, as it depends on the total number of snow days. At this point, we have had three snow days, which are added to the originally scheduled last day of June 12. Once snow season is behind us and the district finalizes the calendar, I will share an official update (including gr 5 graduation details).
 

Our Book Club and Garden Club are off to a wonderful start. Thank you to the students who are participating and to the families who make after-school pick-up accommodations possible—we truly appreciate your support. As a magnet school, we value offering a variety of opportunities for involvement and connection, which is why our PTO events are such a great part of our community. Please see below for upcoming fun dates and details.

 

A reminder that there will be no school on Monday 2/16 Tuesday 2/17 and Wednesday 2/18 for Presidents’ Day break. Students will return on, February 19.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, we know this can be a fun and exciting time for students. To help ensure that everyone can participate, please keep the following in mind:

Please defer to your child's teacher for details about their classroom specifically- there is no schoolwide event happening.

• FYI Homemade cards are great!
• Candy is not permitted and any snacks must be approved by the school nurse—please refrain from sending food
• Please avoid gifts or trinkets, as these can become distractions to learning
• At school, we will be focusing on kindness and inclusion, especially as we recognize Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17.

Thank you, as always, for your partnership and continued support. We are proud of the learning, growth, and sense of community we see every day. Stay warm!

Kristi Hummel
Principal