The Library Street School and Dr. H.O. Smith School represents two of the four elementary schools in the town of Hudson. We are committed to excellence in all academic areas as we strive to develop a community of lifelong learners. Inherent in this commitment is a belief that all students must be provided with a challenging and meaningful program that has flexibility to meet their varying needs.

Techniques used to stimulate students’ interest in learning are as varied as the personalities of the teachers who teach them. Each teacher has a unique way of making learning come alive. Teachers display high expectations for student performance by diagnosing how best to teach individual students to improve their academic and behavioral outcomes, using a variety of complementary instructional and management strategies, and displaying supportive, effective teaching behaviors. Educators follow continuous school improvement initiatives defined in the District’s Educational Improvement Plan. By linking continuous school improvement to professional development, teachers are continually encouraged to test new ideas, assess the effects of those ideas, adjust their strategies and approaches, and assess again in order to reach all students and make learning meaningful. Differentiated classrooms respond to students’ varying readiness levels, interests, and learning profiles.

Zone A is designed to create a collegial setting that will foster a positive interest in learning, communication, cooperation and team activities among all members of the school community. Administrative policies and practices create a highly supportive school environment in which learning is highly regarded, and teachers and students are highly respected.

Students will be active learners who not only acquire knowledge, but also are able to apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. Intelligence is really the capacity to gain and use knowledge to solve problems and promote well-being. Cognitive is only one dimension of intelligence. To be successful, emotional intelligence is necessary for self-insight and the ability to relate to others. Children learn best if they are immersed in complex experiences and are given the opportunity to actively process what they have learned. Students, parents, staff, School Board members, and the community at large will work cooperatively to foster and maintain this environment.

As our society begins the millennium, our children need to acquire more sophisticated knowledge and skills to be productive citizens. We must also be prepared to continue learning and adapting as society changes. Library Street School and Dr. H.O. Smith School assume a key role in developing students who are lifelong learners and contributing community members. In order to uphold high standards of achievement, it is essential that our community become involved in the schooling of our youth.

From the desk of Scott G. Baker