The Thetford Town School District Annual Report for the 2024-2025 academic year highlights the collaborative efforts between Thetford Elementary School and Thetford Academy, showcasing their dedication to student growth, academic excellence, and community involvement.
This comprehensive report offers insights into the district’s achievements, plans for the future, and the ongoing commitment to providing quality education to the students in Thetford, Vermont.
OESU Superintendent’s Welcome
The report opens with a message from Randy Gawel, the OESU Superintendent, who emphasizes the deep connection between Thetford Elementary School and Thetford Academy.
Despite their differences in governance, the two schools share a common goal: supporting the academic and personal growth of their students. The superintendent expresses gratitude for the community’s support and highlights the importance of education as a unifying force in Thetford.
School Board Update
Nicholas Cook, the Chair of the Thetford School District Board, reflects on the district’s accomplishments and challenges over the year.
He notes the successful implementation of the district’s strategic plan, which focuses on cost efficiency, maintaining school facilities, and enhancing educational programs.
Additionally, he highlights the importance of collaboration between the elementary school and the academy to ensure a smooth transition for students as they move from one school to the other.
Thetford Elementary School Highlights
Principal Caitlin Toleno shares her excitement about the positive developments at Thetford Elementary School.
The school has made significant strides in implementing its strategic plan, focusing on place-based education, data-driven decision-making, literacy (aligned with Vermont Act 139), and diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.
The report highlights the school’s partnerships with the community, including a new collaboration with Latham Library and a Rural Libraries Grant from the Children’s Literacy Foundation.
Academic and Student Support Initiatives
The report also outlines new initiatives designed to improve student outcomes. These include the introduction of the EduCLIMBER data management system, which will help track student progress in academics, behavior, and social development.
The school’s new Dean of Students, Tori Benson, plays a pivotal role in supporting students’ emotional and social well-being.
Facilities and Infrastructure Updates
The district has also worked to improve its facilities, with Bob Ratel serving as the new Building and Grounds Supervisor.
The report notes that the district has taken a more hands-on approach to maintaining its facilities, ensuring better management of capital projects and building improvements.
Thetford Academy Highlights
The report also provides updates from Thetford Academy, where Carrie Brennan, the Head of School, reflects on a successful year. Highlights include record student enrollment, the success of various sports teams, and academic achievements.
The school also introduced initiatives to support student well-being, such as going “phone-free” during school hours to foster academic focus and belonging.
Financial Overview
A section of the report is dedicated to the district’s financial health, with detailed insights into the budget, revenues, and expenses. The district’s fiscal strategies aim to balance cost efficiency with high-quality education.
The projected revenue and expense breakdown offers transparency to the community, with a focus on keeping property tax rates stable.
