Welcome Message from Principal Geraldine Petrizzi
It is with pleasure that I welcome you to Holmes School and the start of the 2009-10 school year. It has been a busy and exciting time for staff and our 483 students in kindergarten through fifth grade as we settle in for a new year of academic challenge, enrichment, and social experiences.
The staff at Holmes School brings a wide-variety of experience and differing expertise to educate each child. Classroom teachers work collaboratively with reading specialists, special education teachers, and many support staff to ensure that each child will achieve his or her full potential while developing a strong academic foundation and a love of learning. Together, we are dedicated to providing an academically challenging and motivating program for all students.
A rigorous academic curricula continues to address the needs and levels of all students. A balanced literacy program employing Reader’s Workshop and Writer’s Workshop, and an inquiry-based mathematics program are among the instructional models used. Instruction is enhanced by the integration of varied technology, Smartboards in all classrooms, a computer lab, and a mobile laptop lab.
This year’s instructional initiatives will continue to expand the use of tri-annual assessments in literacy and math to guide instruction and student learning. We will continue to implement a systematic plan for using formative and summative assessment data to tailor instruction to the learning abilities of students to maximize their academic growth; and we will extend and provide scientific research-based intervention (SRBI) to those who need additional support in literacy, math, and student behavior to help meet benchmarks. The design and implementation of a revised Social Studies curriculum will also be introduced.
The school’s program is greatly enhanced by an active and supportive Parent-Teacher Organization. Throughout the year, the PTO offers a variety of programs which enhance the curricula, and various cultural events and informative topics for both students. Several fun family activities are also held.
The staff at Holmes School works in partnership with our children, their families, and the community to provide a quality education that has high expectations for student success and excellence. We look forward to making this a year of continued opportunities to grow and learn together.
Geraldine A. Petrizzi
Principal
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