The Arlington School Committee meeting on December 19, 2024, highlighted significant developments in school improvement plans, particularly focusing on Dalen Elementary School. Principal Thad Damien presented an overview of the school's initiatives aimed at enhancing academic performance and fostering a supportive environment for students.

Dalen Elementary, which serves 390 students, has made strides in its commitment to core values of respect, responsibility, and courage. The school has focused on improving reading and writing skills, particularly for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Last year, 75-80% of students met early reading benchmarks, with kindergarten and first-grade students achieving a remarkable 90% success rate by year-end.

Despite these successes, challenges remain, particularly in math performance among students with disabilities and declining science outcomes. To address these issues, Dalen has implemented pre-teaching strategies and adjusted instructional methods to better prepare students for assessments. The school is also transitioning to an integrated instructional model, keeping core subjects within homerooms to enhance learning experiences.

A key focus of the meeting was the introduction of the EL Education Curriculum, which aims to strengthen literacy skills and promote student engagement through project-based learning. Additionally, the PlayWorks Junior Coaches program empowers fifth graders to lead recess activities, fostering inclusion and leadership among students.

The school is also prioritizing student voice through initiatives like empathy interviews, which gather insights from students and families to improve the educational environment. These efforts reflect Dalen's commitment to creating a sense of belonging and ensuring that every student feels valued.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Dalen Elementary's proactive approach to education, emphasizing academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and community involvement. The school is seeking additional resources to sustain these initiatives and continue fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.