During the MSAD 51 School Board meeting on March 18, 2024, a significant concern was raised regarding the academic support system at Mabelle Eye Wilson Elementary School. Parent Nick Dambry, a resident of Cumberland, shared a personal account highlighting the need for improved communication and proactive measures to support students' academic performance.

Dambry recounted a recent dinner conversation with his son about the I Ready standardized test, which is administered multiple times a year. He expressed his surprise upon learning that parents typically receive test results only in the spring or upon request. This lack of timely information left him questioning how many other parents might be unaware of their children's academic struggles.

Upon reviewing his son's scores, which he found unsatisfactory, Dambry sought additional support from the school. However, he was informed that his son did not qualify for extra help due to an arbitrary proficiency threshold. This experience prompted Dambry to advocate for a fundamental shift in how the school approaches academic support, emphasizing the importance of keeping parents informed about their children's performance.

Dambry pointed out that while Mabelle Eye Wilson ranks 90th out of 219 schools in the state, the community must not overlook the challenges faced by the elementary school. He stressed that the success of the district's top-ranked high school, Greeley High School, relies on a strong foundation at the elementary level.

To address these issues, Dambry proposed a proactive approach that prioritizes parent involvement and timely communication from the school. He suggested that the district provide resources and recommendations for tutoring and study materials, enabling families to support their children's education effectively.

The meeting underscored the need for collaboration between parents and educators to ensure that every child at Mabelle Eye Wilson has the opportunity to thrive academically. As the school board considers these concerns, the community looks forward to actionable steps that will enhance student support and engagement.