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Elliott Elementary reports improved attendance and test growth; district introduces certified facility dog Madden

Wayne-Westland Community School District Board of Education · November 18, 2025
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Summary

Elliott Elementary told the board chronic absenteeism has fallen (from about 50.56% to 39.9%); reading and math NWEA proficiency rose year over year. The district also introduced Madden, a certified facility dog sponsored to support student mental‑health and school climate.

Elliott Elementary staff presented data to the Wayne‑Westland Board showing gains in attendance and academic measures and outlined social‑emotional and community supports.

Mister Lane told the board the school’s chronic absenteeism rate dropped from 50.56% last school year to 39.9% so far this year. He said the school has an attendance monitor on staff this year, regular PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) assemblies and student recognition systems (monthly and quarterly), and targeted outreach (bus eligibility checks and home‑visit teams when needed) to help families improve attendance.

Lane also highlighted academic growth: NWEA reading scores at or above grade level increased from about 40.96% to 46.27%, while math rose from 28.97% to 39.47% year over year. He described phonics cycles, oral reading fluency monitoring, monthly MTSS (Multi‑Tiered System of Supports) meetings and newly formed school committees (multicultural, parental involvement, staff wellness and student recognition) that drive school improvement.

During board questions, Lane said the district team performs home visits when staff identify students with prolonged absences, though the private vendor previously used for home visits no longer serves the district. Board members praised the growth and encouraged continued outreach to families.

Separately, Amanda Fonin, supervisor of mental health and support services, introduced Madden, a certified facility dog placed in the district through Canines for Change. Fonin described a multi‑month training and team‑certification process, thanked sponsors including Priority Health and CoreWell school‑based health partners, and said Priority Health covered approximately $13,000 in initial training and veterinary expenses. Fonin said Madden will be recertified annually with the same handler team and will support students and staff across Hamilton Elementary and other sites as appropriate.