Horace Mann Elementary lauded for relationships-first approach and strong early-grade survey results

Peter Stewart, principal at Horace Mann Elementary, told the Binghamton City School District Board on Sept. 17 that the school’s 2024–25 strategy centers on “relationships first” and a renewed emphasis on Professional Learning Communities.

Stewart described a yearlong plan of weekly classroom circles, schoolwide morning meetings and scripted restorative practices intended to strengthen student–teacher relationships and classroom culture. He said those practices underpin academic goals and teacher collaboration.

Stewart presented end‑of‑year survey data he said came “directly from students” and parents: “I feel successful when I come to school,” he said, was answered affirmatively by about 97% of kindergarten and first‑grade students; 93% said they felt prepared to move to the next grade level. Stewart said parent responses included 100% answering “yes” to whether their child matters at Horace Mann and 99% reporting a positive relationship with at least one adult in the school.

The principal listed family engagement events planned for fall — a reading night in October and a math night in November — and described in‑school practices intended to boost engagement, including a “book of the month” character focus and in‑class incentives tied to academic performance.

Board members thanked Stewart and his staff for the presentation and the apparent rise in parent engagement. The board’s recognition segment closed with appreciation for staff work that supported the survey results.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 15, when the board will continue regular agenda business.