Community Coach Steph Frigon enhances CMS support through MTSS initiatives

The Exeter Region Cooperative School Board convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing student support and community engagement within the district. The meeting highlighted significant progress in curriculum development and social-emotional learning strategies.

The session began with a report on the development of a new curriculum, which involved collaboration among four staff members, including two interventionists. The results of this initiative were met with positive feedback, indicating a successful implementation thus far. A notable achievement discussed was the reduction in student anxiety during the transition from elementary to middle school. The district reported a decrease in student loss during this transition, with only 19 students leaving compared to 60 three years prior, reflecting effective support measures.

Following this, the board addressed the Multi-Tiered System of Supports for Behavior (MTSSB), emphasizing the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) and bullying prevention as priority areas. Steph Frigon, the newly appointed community coach, provided insights into her role and the exploratory work she has undertaken this year. Frigon's focus has been on assessing community needs and fostering strong relationships among students and staff.

Frigon outlined her approach, which includes tiered support systems. Tier 1 involves universal strategies for all students, while Tier 2 focuses on targeted interventions for smaller groups. Tier 3 addresses more severe conflicts, ensuring that students receive the necessary support during challenging situations. Additionally, Frigon has been working to strengthen adult teams within the school, recognizing that effective collaboration among staff ultimately benefits student outcomes.

The meeting concluded with discussions on ongoing initiatives and the importance of maintaining a supportive school environment. The board expressed gratitude for the efforts of staff members and the positive impact these initiatives are having on the school community. Future meetings will continue to monitor progress and address any emerging needs within the district.