MSAD #4

August 2009
Julie Orton, K-8 Principal

We want to welcome you and your child to a new and exciting year in MSAD #4. We have two elementary schools within the district. The Carroll McKusick School, which is located in Parkman, houses kindergarten and first grade. Second and third grade students attend Guilford Primary School. 

Although teaching and learning take up the majority of our time, there is so much more to our days at school. We are fortunate to have a staff of people who work tirelessly to provide children with positive experiences both within and outside of individual classrooms. 

We are in our fifth year of the Reading First Grant and our teaching staff members have put great effort into staying current with the research on effective teaching. As participants in Reading First/Maine Literacy Partnership, we have been able to offer a wealth of professional development for teachers and support staff. This often includes attendance at high-quality workshops throughout the state in addition to the professional development offered on-site.

Technology is a strong component of our curriculum at the elementary level.  Laptop computers are available in all classrooms, in addition to other technology resources.

In the present climate, where accountability and attainment of learning standards are stressed, we try to maintain a healthy balance between academics and the social and emotional needs of children. We believe in the importance of knowing our students and we realize that all students come to us with individual strengths and needs. It is our mission to accept children as they are and help move them forward to become engaged learners who take pride in their own accomplishments. 

Our local parent-teacher organization, HUGS, continues to support us in a variety of ways. Several enrichment activities have been planned for the upcoming year. These enrichment opportunities add so much to our curriculum. 

Volunteers in our schools provide services that also enhance the curriculum. Activities that range from reading to children, listening to children read, presentations on specific educational topics, and preparation of materials for teachers are greatly appreciated by both staff and students. 

Our schools are very much a part of the community and we welcome visitors. There are wonderful things happening at McKusick Elementary School and Guilford Primary School, and we would love to share the good news!

Sincerely,

Julie Orton