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Pittaway preschool outlines parent‑engagement plan, language access and playground improvements
Summary
Pittaway (Pidaway) preschool leaders told the Ashland School Committee about expanded parent coffees, a community resource fair, language access for events and plans to make the playground surface more accessible; the presentation is part of the school improvement plan that runs through 2026.
Pittaway preschool leaders presented their family and community engagement work and a one‑year update to the school improvement plan at the Ashland School Committee meeting on May 14.
Sarah Davidson, the preschool director and special education coordinator, described parent coffees held in September and January, a Winter Wonderland family event, transition sessions for families moving to kindergarten, and plans for a community resource fair that would include library signups, car-seat safety checks and outreach from Ashland Recreation and public safety. The site council and PTO supported the events, and staff used surveys to target topics families want.
Davidson said staff provided takeaways and online resources (a “s'mores” newsletter) for families who could not attend in person. She said the RSVP form on event notices asks whether interpretation or language support is needed and the district has used ASL and other language interpreters when families request them.
The preschool is aligning its work with the district strategic plan. Davidson described data‑team work using Teaching Strategies GOLD (TSG) assessments to track child development and said the school will review assessment tools for future use. She said the program remains play‑based and that staff collaborated with district SEL staff to promote social‑emotional learning and emergency routines adapted for preschoolers.
Davidson noted a facilities priority: the playground surface currently uses mulch, which can limit access for mobility‑challenged children. She said John Murray in facilities has provided quotes and that the PTO and a BAA grant have supplied additional funds for inclusive play equipment; the school hopes to launch a longer‑term surface improvement or playground campaign.
Parent Jess (last name not specified in the presentation) told the committee the preschool’s outreach exceeded her expectations and praised staff for creating a strong community connection. Committee members asked about outreach to diverse families, the number and timing of events, childcare for evening events and use of high‑school volunteers to provide childcare.
Davidson said the preschool will continue to evaluate attendance and topic needs and try varied scheduling (morning and evening coffees, video resources, livestream options) to maximize accessibility. She also said kindergarten transition activities will continue and that the school improvement plan runs through 2026.
The committee thanked Davidson and noted her upcoming transition back to the special education coordinator role; members praised the program’s gains and community focus.
