Hampton Elementary School organizes its improvement efforts around ACE—Academic achievement, Climate and community, and Enrichment and engagement; these goals are explained below.
Academic Achievement
• Early Literacy: We will strengthen oral language and knowledge building in PreK, continue high-quality foundational skills in K–2, and expand evidence-based writing instruction (ThinkSRSD) in upper elementary.
• Targeted Interventions: With our full-time interventionist, we will provide short, focused cycles of support in reading and math, with progress checks every 6–8 weeks to monitor growth and adjust instruction.
• Clear Communication: We’ll continue to refine our standards-based reporting so families understand what students know and can do—and how to help at home.
Climate & Community
• Restorative Practices: HES staff will be diving in feet first into restorative practice work. This will do more than address conflict or behavior. It’s about building a strong, connected community. Through regular circles, conversations, and shared problem-solving, students learn to listen, express themselves respectfully, and take responsibility for their choices. This approach helps repair harm when it occurs, but just as importantly, it strengthens relationships, creating a school culture where every student feels valued and supported.
• Assemplays and Spirit Days: We will continue hosting monthly assemplays, where our students are able to develop a school wide community through celebrating accomplishments, shared music, and play. Please be on the lookout for more information before assemplays and special spirit events.
• Let Grow: Let Grow is a national nonprofit (co-founded by Lenore Skenazy) that helps families and schools rebuild kids’ independence, resilience, and free play. The core idea: when children get age-appropriate freedom to try things on their own — for example, walk to a friend’s house, make a simple purchase, or organize a game — they grow more confident, responsible, and socially skilled. Please watch for more information shared by your child’s classroom teachers.
Enrichment & Engagement
• Arts Access for All: Our art, music, and PE/health specialists are collaborating to increase access to the arts across all grades. This year, every student in grades 3–6 will participate in our drama program, giving them the opportunity to build confidence, creativity, and teamwork.
• Intergenerational and Community Connections: We’ll deepen partnerships with Hampton’s seniors and community organizations, including the fire department, historical society, and conservation commission, through shared events and student service projects.
• Library Partnership: Our monthly Second Wednesday Story & Craft at Fletcher Memorial Library (4–5 p.m.) welcomes children ages 3–5 and their adult helpers for read-alouds and hands-on fun.
How You Can Get Involved
• Volunteer or Share a Skill: From reading with students to guest-speaking about local history, we love welcoming community expertise into our school. Please call the office for volunteer opportunities and guidelines.
• Donate Supplies or Materials: Please contact the office or your child’s teacher if you have materials or donations for our school.
• Join Us at Events: Look for concerts, exhibitions, and service event dates from the school and on the Fletcher Memorial Library calendar. We are looking forward to sharing our amazing students with our community.
If you have questions or would like to get involved, please contact the Hampton Elementary School office. Here’s to a year of learning, connection, and community pride!
Victoria Smith, Principal, Hampton Elementary School