Pelham School District celebrates academic achievements and addresses testing issues

The Pelham Union Free School District held a meeting on April 10, 2025, where several key updates and celebrations highlighted the district's commitment to student engagement and achievement.

One of the most notable discussions centered around recent educational events aimed at enhancing student learning and community involvement. The district celebrated the successful "Elementary Curriculum Family Night," which attracted numerous K-5 families to Hutchinson School for hands-on activities that showcased the curriculum. This event was organized by a dedicated team, including Kate Alex and Alicia Del Mastro, and aimed to foster a sense of community and support for students' educational journeys.

In addition, the district reported on the positive impact of Veolia Water's outreach program, which engaged elementary students in learning about the importance of water through interactive experiences. This initiative aligns with the Science 21 curriculum and emphasizes the district's focus on practical, real-world applications of science education.

The meeting also recognized the achievements of Pelham Memorial High School students in various competitions. The school's Math Team earned third place in the New York State Mathematics League championships, showcasing the students' skills and teamwork. Furthermore, the inaugural FIRST Robotics team, FLUX, received the Rookie All-Star Award at their first competition, highlighting the growing interest in STEM activities among students.

Another significant achievement was that senior Kira Findikian advanced to the International Science and Engineering Fair after winning her category at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair. This accomplishment reflects the hard work of students and their teachers, with special recognition given to those who supported the participants.

However, the meeting also addressed challenges faced during the recent computer-based testing for English Language Arts in grades 3 through 5. Technical difficulties with the external vendor's platform affected students' ability to log on, prompting discussions on how to resolve these issues moving forward.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's dedication to fostering a supportive educational environment while celebrating student successes and addressing challenges. As Pelham continues to adapt to new educational standards and practices, the community remains engaged and invested in the growth and development of its students.