The halls of East School in New Canaan echoed with excitement as students and staff returned for the start of the 2023 academic year. East School Principal, Dr. Kristine Woleck, speaking at a Board of Education meeting, painted a vivid picture of the school’s enthusiastic beginning, highlighting new faces and initiatives that promise an exceptional year ahead.
Dr. Woleck began by introducing the remarkable additions to the East School family. “We had 15 new East certified staff members join us, including seven classroom teachers, two special area teachers, two special education teachers, one speech-language pathologist, and a new school psychologist,” Dr. Woleck proudly exclaimed. The school also welcomed a new nurse and custodian, not to mention a special education administrative assistant, setting the stage for a year of positivity, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas.
The eagerness to embrace new beginnings didn’t stop there. East School welcomed 28 new students in grades one through four with a wonderful orientation session. Under the expert guidance of East Assistant Principal, Ms. Maura Fruin, the students toured the building and heard from fourth-grade student ambassadors who shared insights about what makes East School so special.
The Parent-Teacher Council (PTC) hosted a lively back-to-school social event on August 27th, complete with flavored ice cups and music, signaling a fun start to the year. Dr. Woleck praised the successful meet-and-greet held on August 28th that allowed students and parents to visit their classroom and meet their teacher in anticipation of the first day.
East School has expanded to include 30 classroom sections this year, with exciting improvements in its facilities. A new science area, set to be equipped with cabinets and countertops later in the year, promises exciting educational opportunities for students. A subdivided music suite accommodates general music classes and small-group lessons for strings students, with plans for student performances in the school’s cafeteria. Also this summer, new flooring was installed in the special area clasrooms as well as in the classroom hallways. Dr. Woleck expressed gratitude to the dedicated custodial staff and facilities team for their tireless efforts in preparing the school for the new academic year.
Looking forward, East School’s motto “Work Hard, Be Kind” continues to drive its mission. This year, a new theme, “Together, We SOAR,” complements the school’s motto. Dr. Woleck explained this year’s theme emphasizes collaboration among teachers, specialists, and students, ensuring that instruction is tailored to the needs of every learner.
“Together” means working collaboratively across various domains, such as literacy and mathematics specialists coaching and planning with classroom teachers. It also means the classroom coach partnering with teachers to support learning communities and the development of social skills among students for effective teamwork.
Moreover, the school emphasizes the importance of collaborating with families to strengthen the connection between home and school. Upcoming open houses are expected to play a vital role in building these relationships.
Dr. Woleck concluded her remarks by sharing an inspiring story. The necessary replacement of playground equipment is coupled with a third-grader’s heartfelt letter last year advocating for greater accessibility. In response, students undertook a study of the playground last spring, exploring ways to meet the diverse needs of all students, particularly those with impairments or disabilities. Those third graders engaged in design-thinking projects to produce prototypes of new playground equipment to consider. This project has positioned the school to revamp the playground with inclusivity embedded into their plans.
East School is set to embark on an exciting journey of growth and learning, thanks to the collective efforts of teachers, staff, and the New Canaan community. Principal Woleck’s remarks set the stage for a promising academic year filled with collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
