Laurel Literacy Academy was officially christened today, with students, staff and town education leaders in attendance, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the gym.
The former Laurel Elementary School’s new name is reflective of the intensive work being done over the past couple of years in reading, writing, comprehension, speaking and problem-solving for Laurel’s Pre-K through Grade 2 students.
“The Laurel Literacy Academy supports the development of foundational literacy skills our Bloomfield students need to prepare them for future academic success,’’ said Laurel Principal Jennifer Dwyer. “Research supports that early literacy experiences are fundamental components of a child’s development. Our goal in developing a literacy academy is that all students will be reading on grade level by third grade”
Dwyer said the school has intensified its focus on the “science of reading” and integrated literacy throughout all content areas.
Bloomfield Public Schools Superintendent Dr. James Thompson Jr. said the Academy will be a
“key lever in driving school improvement and putting our children on a more coherent and productive path to reading on grade level by Grade 3.”
A steering committee last year was formed to study the viability of a Literacy Academy and set timelines, in phases, for implementation. The discussion this year has been on the types of professional development, partnerships and new events needed to enhance the learning experience at Laurel. The goal is to have the academy fully implemented in the 2024-25 school year. The Connecticut State Department of Education this summer approved our proposed name-change for Laurel Elementary School.
In 2022, the district launched its first pre-school class for Bloomfield families at Laurel. Also, in partnership with the Laurel PTO and Bloomfield Public Library, a new Free Library book-drop was opened on campus. It provides 24-hour access to children’s books, donated by the library.