Greenwich Schools Showcase Strategic Goals with Student Representatives and Success Stories

The May 29, 2025, Board of Education Retreat for the Greenwich School District focused on the progress and achievements of various schools in relation to the district's strategic plan. The meeting began with a presentation from representatives of seven schools, each discussing their specific goals and the positive outcomes achieved over the past year.

The first speaker, Dr. Jen Bentovango from Old Greenwich School, highlighted the emphasis on the science of reading, particularly close reading strategies for grades K-5. She noted the collaborative efforts among teachers to address individual student needs effectively.

Claire Monaco, principal of Glenville School, followed with an update on mathematics, emphasizing the importance of a strong curriculum and timely interventions based on student data. She reported that this approach has helped fill gaps in student understanding early on.

Tom Healy from Central Middle School discussed science education, praising the collaborative efforts among teachers to ensure a solid foundation for students, particularly in preparation for eighth-grade testing.

Christina Shaw from Greenwich High School reported on a significant change in the school's attendance policy, which has led to a 25% decrease in unexcused absences. This stricter policy aims to improve student accountability and support higher graduation rates.

Suzanne Coyne from Western Middle School shared insights on family and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with parents and providing support during the challenging middle school years. She highlighted successful initiatives like career day and a new care closet for students.

Carrie Gavin from Cos Cob School spoke about fostering a positive school environment, focusing on building relationships among staff and students. She mentioned the introduction of mindfulness programs to support student well-being.

Daizy from Hamilton Avenue School reported a remarkable increase in staff positivity ratings, from 44% to 87%. She attributed this improvement to active listening and collaboration among staff, which has positively impacted student experiences.

The meeting concluded with discussions on next steps for the upcoming school year, with a focus on continuing the successful strategies implemented this year. Board members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts across schools and the positive impact on student learning and engagement.

Overall, the retreat showcased the district's commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through strategic planning and community involvement, setting a positive tone for the future of Greenwich schools.