Clay Elementary School is beginning the new school year with renewed energy, expanded opportunities and a strong focus on helping every student succeed. Under the leadership of Principal Jacee Huffman and Assistant Principal Mistie Legg, the school is building on meaningful academic progress while creating an engaging, safe and supportive environment for students and families. From leadership programs and reading initiatives to strengthened family partnerships and improved learning spaces, Clay Elementary is moving forward with a clear commitment to excellence.
One of the school’s most encouraging accomplishments is its growth in reading proficiency. Clay Elementary increased its reading proficiency rate by 16 percentage points during the past year, rising from 18 percent at the beginning of the year to 34 percent at the beginning of this year. To continue that momentum, the school has added two academic coaches who are working alongside teachers to strengthen instruction and support student learning. Students also have a new and exciting incentive to read: a book vending machine provided by Save the Children. The vending machine gives students a fun, memorable way to celebrate positive reading habits and take pride in becoming lifelong readers.
Clay Elementary is also expanding opportunities for student voice, leadership and exploration. This year, the school is launching a Technology Student Association, or TSA, chapter for fifth and sixth grade students. The new chapter will give students opportunities to explore technology, problem-solving, teamwork and career-connected learning. In addition, a new student council will provide fifth and sixth graders with a meaningful role in school leadership. These programs will help students develop confidence, responsibility and the communication skills needed to make a positive difference in their school and community.
The school has also taken important steps to strengthen family engagement, attendance and student support. A new family engagement coordinator is working closely with parents and guardians to promote consistent attendance and reinforce the connection between home and school. Clay Elementary has updated its attendance and behavior incentives to recognize students for making positive choices and coming to school ready to learn. The school has also implemented a new behavior policy, supported by larger, easier-to-read and more durable behavior-expectation posters throughout high-traffic areas. These improvements provide clear, consistent expectations while helping students understand the importance of respect, responsibility and readiness to learn.
Clay Elementary has made a number of facility and safety improvements designed to benefit students, staff and visitors. Additional safety measures have been added to the prekindergarten patio, including window clings that enhance security. TVs have been installed in high-traffic areas to highlight upcoming events, student accomplishments and school successes.
The school has also efficiently incorporated sixth grade into the building, ensuring students are academically challenged while continuing to have opportunities to participate in middle school extracurricular sports. Enhanced spaces for Communities In Schools, the school nurse, occupational and physical therapy services, academic coaches and other support staff have made important services more accessible to students and employees. With Principal Huffman and Assistant Principal Legg guiding these efforts, Clay Elementary School is creating a school community where students are encouraged to learn, lead and thrive.
