Welcome Back

August 27, 2024

Dear MRE Families,

Welcome back to an exciting new school year! I hope you've had a restful and enjoyable summer break. As we make our final preparations for the upcoming academic year, I am very excited to share important updates and changes that will support our ongoing commitment to student success.

I’d like to begin by sharing with you our newly drafted school mission and vision statements. These statements were written collaboratively by members of our school leadership team over the second half of last school year and ratified by our staff in the spring. They reflect our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.

Mary Rowlandson Elementary School Mission

We empower all students by recognizing and celebrating their unique talents, perspectives, and identities. Together, we nurture a joy of learning and discovery, giving students opportunities to acquire knowledge, skills, and experiences. By doing so, we open their hearts and minds to a world of possibilities.

Mary Rowlandson Elementary School Vision

To inspire lifelong learners and leaders who positively impact the world

These statements articulate both the purpose for our work each and every day, and what we aspire to achieve as educators for the benefit of our students.

I am also excited to let you know that we have two new staff members joining the MRE team this fall. Amy Melanson will be joining our preschool team this year as a long-term substitute teacher for Amy DeCiero, who will be out for the school year. Mrs. Melanson comes to us with a wealth of preschool experience and enthusiasm for her new role. Also joining our team is Sarah Wrathall, who will be working at MRE two days a week supporting our music program. She will teach four sessions of general music each cycle which will allow Mr. Rossley the time to teach instrument lessons as part of our award-winning band program. Mrs. Wrathall comes to us from Center School in Stow where she has been teaching music since last year. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to our newest staff members. Their unique talents, perspectives, and expertise will contribute greatly to the ongoing success of our school.

I am also pleased to announce that we have MRE staff taking on new roles this year. Tracey Rutherford will be joining the FRIENDS 1 team as an instructional assistant. Ms. Rutherford has many years experience working at MRE and has wide ranging experience and expertise that she brings to the FRIENDS 1 team. Similarly, Emily MacMunn will be transitioning to the K-2 special education team. Emily joined MRE last year and quickly demonstrated her strong work ethic and dedication to the students of MRE.

As we embark on the new school year, I am filled with anticipation and excitement. The collective efforts of our dedicated staff, engaged parents, and eager students promise to make this school year a remarkable one. As always, we are committed to fostering a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

Thank you for entrusting us with the education and development of your children. Together, we will continue to create a learning community that values curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

We look forward to the incredible year ahead and can't wait to see the growth and achievements that await each and every student. Here's to a successful, enriching, and joyful school year at Mary Rowlandson Elementary!

Warmest regards,

Scott Blanchard

Principal