During a recent government meeting, Jefferson Elementary School was celebrated for receiving the prestigious Blue Ribbon School Award, a recognition of excellence in education. Principal Lori Sweeney led the presentation, highlighting the collaborative efforts of staff, parents, and students that contributed to this achievement.
Sweeney showcased innovative teaching practices at Jefferson, particularly the implementation of the Enquire Ed curriculum in social studies. This program encourages active learning through student engagement, allowing kindergarteners to interview school helpers and explore their environment. A video featuring a kindergarten class demonstrated how students learn to navigate their school while developing essential questioning skills.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) at Jefferson, where educators collaborate to enhance teaching practices and improve student outcomes. These weekly meetings allow teachers to analyze student work, share insights, and refine instructional strategies. Sweeney noted that the support from PLCs has been invaluable, especially for teachers transitioning to new grade levels.
The Board of Education expressed gratitude to the entire Jefferson community for their dedication to educational excellence, underscoring that the Blue Ribbon Award is a collective achievement. The meeting concluded with a group photo to commemorate the occasion, celebrating the hard work and commitment of everyone involved in making Jefferson Elementary a standout institution.