Bill Sullivan reviews middle school's successful year and future goals at assembly

The Oyster River Coop School District's recent School Board meeting on June 18, 2025, highlighted significant achievements and future goals for the middle school, as presented by Principal Bill Sullivan. The meeting served as a platform to celebrate the successful conclusion of the academic year and to outline the progress made in various educational initiatives.

Principal Sullivan expressed enthusiasm about the year’s accomplishments, particularly noting the positive atmosphere during the eighth-grade celebrations. He emphasized the importance of community and student engagement, stating that the school has fostered a caring environment through its advisory program. This year, the middle school expanded its advisory program to include fifth graders, integrating them into a unified curriculum that promotes collaboration among students and staff.

A key focus of the meeting was the enhancement of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Sullivan reported on the efforts to improve communication regarding student interventions, ensuring that parents and staff are informed about the support provided to students. The school has collaborated with consultant Mary Ann Nysse to strengthen literacy instruction, particularly in writing. This initiative aims to develop a consistent approach across grades, with a focus on creating effective rubrics and assessments to guide student progress.

The New Hampshire Learning Initiative (NHLI) also played a crucial role in professional development for teachers this year. Sullivan highlighted the importance of establishing common assessments and rubrics to ensure consistency in teaching standards across different subjects and grade levels. This collaborative effort is designed to enhance the educational experience for students, making learning more engaging and rigorous.

As the meeting concluded, Sullivan expressed optimism about the upcoming year, indicating that the groundwork laid this year will lead to further improvements in student writing and overall academic performance. The discussions underscored the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment and enhancing educational outcomes for all students. The community can look forward to continued growth and development as the school implements these initiatives in the coming academic year.