The Taunton School Committee meeting on May 21, 2025, showcased a comprehensive school improvement plan presented by Principal Dakota for Mulcahy Elementary School, aimed at enhancing student outcomes from 2024 to 2026. The plan emphasizes five key areas of focus, each designed to address specific educational needs and foster a supportive learning environment.

The first area targets writing proficiency for students in grades 2 to 4. By implementing the McGraw Hill's Wonders literacy curriculum, educators will provide targeted support for diverse learners, including students with disabilities and those who are multilingual. The goal is to improve writing skills in alignment with state standards, particularly for the MCAS assessments.

The second focus area is on math proficiency, where the school plans to accelerate growth through collaborative lesson preparation. This initiative will engage students actively in their learning and include family nights to help parents support their children’s math skills at home.

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the third area of focus, with plans to strengthen tier 1 instruction through programs like MindUP and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Professional development for educators will ensure effective implementation of these programs, which aim to support students' emotional well-being.

The fourth focus is on improving transitions for students, ensuring they feel safe and connected within the school community. Events such as Kindergarten Transition Nights and summer meet-ups are planned to foster relationships among students and families.

Lastly, the plan addresses chronic absenteeism, aiming to reduce it by 15.5% and improve daily attendance to 95.9%. The administration will collaborate with teachers, community facilitators, and health staff to track attendance patterns and engage families in the importance of consistent school attendance.

Principal Dakota's presentation was met with enthusiasm, highlighting her commitment to creating a more effective learning environment. The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the implementation of these initiatives, which are expected to significantly benefit the students and the broader school community.