The 2025–2026 school year was one of celebration, innovation, and national recognition for Matunuck Elementary School. This spring, Matunuck was recognized as a National Gold Star School by the National Association of Elementary School Principals, honoring schools that create exceptional learning environments where students thrive. This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the unwavering support of our families and community.
While we are incredibly proud of this distinction, it affirmed something our community has always known: exceptional schools are built one relationship at a time. At Matunuck, every child is known, challenged, and supported. Those relationships create the foundation for everything we accomplish.
Learning at Matunuck is centered on helping students think deeply. Throughout the year, teachers strengthened instruction, with a continued emphasis on writing across the grade levels. Students developed their ability to communicate their thinking through response to text, opinion and informational writing, and extended writing opportunities woven throughout the school day. At the same time, they strengthened reading comprehension, deepened mathematical understanding through Eureka Math², and explored science in ways that encourage curiosity and problem-solving.
Our commitment to meaningful learning extends well beyond the classroom. Matunuck's outdoor campus continues to provide unique opportunities for students to explore and connect their learning to the world around them. Outdoor classrooms, garden spaces, and our performance stage serve as extensions of instruction throughout the year. This spring, students and families across the district followed the growth of three osprey hatchlings through our live nest camera, creating authentic opportunities to connect science, nature, and environmental stewardship. Our student led composting program also continued to flourish, giving students ownership in caring for our school while supporting our gardens.
Students were equally engaged through experiences that foster creativity, leadership, and confidence. Our fifth annual STEAM Fair reached record participation, showcasing student innovation across science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The Art Show, musical performances, All-School Talent Show and Field Day highlighted the many talents of our students while strengthening the sense of pride that defines our school community.
Leadership opportunities continued to expand throughout the year. Safety Patrol members welcomed students each morning, assisted younger peers, and modeled responsibility throughout the school day. These experiences reinforce the idea that leadership begins with everyday actions. 4th grade students initiated a Kindness Club in September and it grew into a school movement.
Matunuck's success is strengthened by meaningful partnerships beyond our school walls. This year, we expanded our collaboration with the University of Rhode Island by welcoming teacher candidates into our classrooms, creating valuable learning experiences for both future educators and our students. We were also proud to be recognized as the Attendance Matters Challenge winner by Rhode Island FC and the Rhode Island Department of Education, celebrating our collective commitment to ensuring students are ready to learn every day.
One of Matunuck's greatest strengths is the partnership we share with our families. Our dedicated PTO continued to enrich student experiences by supporting beloved traditions, family events, enrichment opportunities, and countless volunteer efforts throughout the year. Together, our families, staff, and community create a school where students feel connected, supported, and excited to learn.
Supporting the whole child remained at the heart of our work. Through a strong Multi-Tiered System of Supports, inclusive practices, and a shared commitment to meeting students where they are, we continued to ensure every child had access to the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports needed to succeed.
As principal, one of the greatest privileges is watching our students grow from year to year. Seeing kindergarteners become confident fifth graders is a reminder that growth happens one day at a time, and we are grateful to be part of that journey.
The 2025–2026 school year reflected what makes Matunuck such a special place. From earning national recognition to celebrating everyday successes, our students continued to inspire us with their curiosity, resilience, kindness, and determination. We are proud of all we accomplished together and look forward to building on that success in the years ahead.
With gratitude,
Liz McGuire