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Efforts to Reduce Racial, Ethnic, and Economic Isolation
Oliver
Ellsworth School continues to support the district’s
efforts to break down racial, ethnic and economic
isolation within the town of Windsor. With approximately
41% White, 42% African American, 12% Hispanic
and 5 % Asian, our school reflects our students’
similarities and celebrates their differences. We strive
to
foster in our students an understanding,
acceptance and appreciation of diversity through
partnerships and school
wide initiatives that teach and promote acceptance and
tolerance and to shape the ideals and beliefs of an
Oliver
Ellsworth student. The Ellsworth Code is
recited at the beginning of each school day. The Code
states that each citizen of the school should “show
respect, be responsible and to do the best you can”. By
doing so, students learn to coexist cooperatively and
collaboratively as they increase their academic
knowledge. “Words of Wisdom” are read to the students
daily. These short missives contain positive ideals,
actions and thoughts that relate closely to experiences
and dilemmas that elementary students typically
encounter. Instruction at Oliver Ellsworth School
utilizes cooperative learning as its hallmark. Success
For All, a nationally recognized model of reading
instruction, and Trailblazers, a mathematics program,
utilize group work, student discourse and
cooperation. Writing is taught using a workshop model
during which students and teachers discuss, model,
conference and share. A professional library of related
instructional materials has been developed. Book clubs
have been conducted that focus on the achievement
gap. School-wide projects and events celebrate
diversity. Cultural assemblies have been held throughout
the school year. A two-week program called The Kindness
and Justice Challenge has been implemented in connection
with Martin Luther King Day. The Family Resource Center
and the Parent Teacher Organization continue to provide
programs aimed at bringing Ellsworth families together
in support of student learning and the reduction of the
achievement gap. Parent training, a parent-to-parent
network, parent book clubs and family fun activities are
some of the ongoing efforts.
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