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HES says writing and classroom discussion improved after new ELA curriculum; teachers plan SEL focus
Summary
HES Principal Dr. Rebecca Katsh‑Singer reported the school implemented three ELA modules this year (exceeding a two‑module goal), teachers said student writing and discussion improved, and staff plan to add social‑emotional learning and consider a fourth module next year while addressing redundancy.
Dr. Rebecca Katsh‑Singer, principal of Hildreth Elementary School, presented the HES School Improvement Plan end‑of‑year report to the Harvard School Committee on May 18, detailing curriculum and school climate developments.
Katsh‑Singer said HES implemented three English Language Arts modules this year, exceeding the school’s goal of two, and is considering a fourth module next year while working to reduce redundancy across standards. She described the district’s approach to the new curriculum as “implementing with integrity” rather than pursuing strict fidelity.
Fourth grade teacher Michelle Keane and first grade teacher Kyrstin Favreau described classroom improvements: higher‑quality student writing, stronger discussion skills and a deeper classroom community. Teachers said the primary challenges were the density of materials and adapting to new protocols; they described strategies such as unpacking lessons with an instructional coach and adjusting instruction to meet students’ needs.
Committee members praised the staff for their work. Ms. Joyce commended teachers for their hard work, and Mr. Killeen praised the elementary team for embedding varied activities into the student experience. The principal also highlighted other school initiatives this year, including restorative practices, a new student council, a Husky Heroes recognition program, after‑school workshops with community partners, and multiple extracurricular activities.
Next steps include monitoring the potential addition of a fourth module, continuing restorative practices and further integrating explicit social‑emotional learning into classroom instruction.
