West School Principal Julie Broton celebrates community and student belonging

Under the warm glow of the Peabody Public Schools auditorium, excitement filled the air as students, families, and educators gathered for the Peabody Regular School Committee Meeting on February 25, 2025. The evening was marked by a heartfelt presentation from the West School, led by Principal Julie Broton and Assistant Principal Harilyn Fusil, who proudly showcased the vibrant community spirit and educational initiatives taking place within their school.

Principal Broton opened the presentation by emphasizing the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging among students. “We want to share some of the wonderful things happening in our school,” she stated, highlighting the goal of deepening bonds within the school community. The theme of belonging resonated throughout the evening, as students shared personal reflections on what makes them feel at home at West School.

Quotes from students illustrated the positive environment cultivated by the staff. Kindergarteners like Krishnada expressed their affection for the school, saying, “I belong at the West School because I love the school and my teachers love me.” Other students echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing kindness, friendship, and support from teachers as key components of their school experience. “All my friends make me feel like I belong,” shared RJ, a third grader, capturing the essence of community that West School strives to create.

In addition to fostering emotional connections, the presentation also highlighted innovative classroom activities. Assistant Principal Fusil introduced an enrichment writing activity that combined creative expression with educational tools like ST Math, showcasing the school’s dedication to engaging learning experiences. Students were invited to share their work, further demonstrating the collaborative spirit that defines West School.

As the meeting progressed, the sense of unity and purpose among the West School community became palpable. The commitment to nurturing not just academic growth but also emotional well-being was evident in every story shared. The evening concluded with a renewed sense of pride among attendees, leaving them inspired by the strong foundation being built at West School—a place where every student is encouraged to shine bright and feel valued.