August, 2024

Dear Downes Family,

After a year with this incredible community, I am more energized and committed than ever to the success of our students and the continued growth of our school.

Reflecting on last year, I am filled with gratitude for the warm welcome I received and the strong partnerships we’ve built. Over the past year, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with our dedicated Parent Teacher Association, Building Leadership Team, and, of course, our remarkable staff and students. Together, we have celebrated many successes, including an impressive 5% growth in iReady Reading proficiency and a 4% growth in iReady Math proficiency. These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire school community, and I am excited to continue this journey with all of you.

This year, our Building Leadership Team and Parent Teacher Association have focused on setting more targeted goals based on an extensive review of our data. These goals are designed to further enhance our students' academic progress and overall school experience. We will continue this important work when the rest of the staff returns, ensuring that everyone is aligned and equipped to support our students in reaching their full potential.

As a leader, my focus remains on fostering connections and deepening our collaborative efforts. I believe in the power of teamwork, and I am committed to ensuring that each of us can leverage our strengths to achieve great things together. Our collective success is my priority, and I am dedicated to creating an environment where every day brings us closer to our goals.

I am also thrilled to welcome new members to our Downes community this year. Let’s greet them with the enthusiasm and support that make our school such a special place to be. Together, we will continue to build on our traditions and create new ones that reflect the spirit and diversity of our community.

Truly,

Dr. Michelle Shelton Principal