College Downs

As we wrap up our final year at Newell Elementary, I want to sincerely thank the entire staff for all that you do. From one parent to another, especially one who deeply values her child, their well being, and the environment they are in, I believe it is so important to build real relationships with teachers. Not to hand over the responsibility of raising our children, but to partner with the people who spend so much time shaping their daily experience.With that said, Newell is truly a 10 out of 10. From one worry wart parent to another, if you are zoned for this area, you can have peace of mind. While it may be labeled a low income school, the staff genuinely does their very best to provide equity, care, and opportunity for every child.Of course, like anywhere, there may be challenges along the way. But it is our role and our children’s role to speak up, report concerns when they arise, and follow up with administration to ensure accountability and growth. That is how positive change happens, and Newell takes that responsibility seriously.These early years come with a lot. Big emotions, growing independence, and the reality that kids are maturing faster than ever. While we cannot control everything, we can stay engaged by teaching morals and values at home, having open conversations about peer pressure, and staying connected with teachers to make sure our children are thriving both academically and behaviorally.We are incredibly grateful for our time here, and we will truly miss Newell Elementary. Thank you for being such an important part of our journey.

United Community School is a wonderful learning community. My son is currently a third grader and has been attending since kindergarten. He feels known and loved by faculty and staff and I enjoy volunteering and seeing first hand what a wonderful school it is. He is performing on or above grade level across subjects and enjoys going to school and is excited to learn. Every week he has special area classes that foster his creativity and health in music, art, physical education, social-emotional learning, health and maker's space. The the school is small and feels very safe. In addition to having a security guard and other additional security precautions, I feel safest knowing that the adults know and engage with all the of the students each and every day. My son is learning compassion and how to embrace differences and recognize his own learning differences because the school is so inclusive of neurodivergent learners. Administration and support staff jump in all the time to support teachers and students who need additional resources , attention or time.The head of the school sends out weekly newsletters and every classroom teacher sends out weekly newsletters about learning goals and highlights from the week. There is also a daily communication folder that includes how my child's day went and a weekly homework assignment in literacy and math go home in the folder as well. The school engages in fundraising like Scholastic Book Fairs and special events like concerts, academic presentations, and dances. UCS also offers athletic programs for students in 4th through 8th grade and is growing that program to include more sports. I am incredibly happy with the experience my child is having at UCS and I'm impressed with not only his academic success but his healthy attitude toward learning. Call and take a tour and see for yourself.

Teachers truly care for their students. It feels like an extended family, as everyone participates in the success of the students.