Dear Parents and Community Members of Cummings Elementary School,

I hope that this letter finds you safe with many memories of a relaxing, yet exciting summer. We are looking forward to seeing you all very soon.

It is with great excitement that I begin my second year as your principal. The greater Cummings community is truly a large family with everyone looking out for each other. Our staff is among the finest in this state, from office staff to custodial, instructional assistants and teachers.

We have very few new staff members whom you will be able to meet during our open house. The only classroom teacher new to our building is Ryan English, who will be teaching 5th grade. He comes to us with many years of experience as an elementary classroom teacher and as a mentor for beginning teachers. He is looking forward to being back in the classroom.

Our academic goal for this coming year is to get all students to grade level in reading and math. It is of utmost importance that all students read at home every day. Our youngest students should read or be read to by a family member on a daily basis. One of my favorite anonymous quotes is; “You only have to read on days you want to eat.” Read anything and everything: books, magazines, street signs, recipes, instructions to board games, whatever comes your way! Reading is as important as nourishment.

Our part time reading specialist will work with small groups of students who may need some catching up. SMART (Start Making A Reader Today) volunteers will continue to work with individual students grades K-3, chosen by the classroom teachers.

Some improvements to our school include a new walking path on the inside of the fence north of our school along Delight Street. We will be training students to use this path, as they are walking home to avoid cars that may be backing out after parking alongside our fence.

New bark dust was added to our track, which will make for a nice soft surface for our walkers and runners.

I am looking forward to another great year at Cummings Elementary School.

We will be hosting an OPEN HOUSE on September 5th, 2017, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for all Cummings students and families. I hope to meet you then, if not sooner.

Grades 1 – 5 class lists will be posted in the lobby of the school office at Open House. Kindergarten students will be assigned to classes by September 8th, 2017. Office staff will notify parents by phone. Please see below for more kindergarten information.

Sincerely,

Martina Mangan
Principal