Elementary School Home

Message from the Principal

Greetings!

Fort Fairfield Elementary School is located in Aroostook County Maine.  We have a teaching staff that is composed of skilled  educators – ranging from many years of experience to those in the early stages of their careers.  It is this blend that enables us to provide quality instructional support for the 190 children in grades PK through Five.  It also gives us the opportunity to learn as educators by discussing new and traditional methods for engaging children during the early stages of their academic journey.  Teaming is strong at FFES, and is demonstrated through the collaborative efforts between classroom, Title I and special education to help each child in our school make personal gains.  

We have a 5-day per week PreK program that offers morning and afternoon sessions.  This program is committed to making a child’s first formal school experience a positive one.  The curriculum includes academic and social skills that are learned and practiced through play as well as teacher-directed learning.  Class size for the PK sessions on average is between 10 and 12 students.

Grades K through 5 have two homerooms per grade level, and the teachers work cooperatively to maintain their instructional pace and shared planning for whole group activities.  Starting in grade 2 we have teachers identified as the reading or math instruction leaders, but the remainder of their classes, including science and social studies, are held in homeroom groups.  Having teacher leaders affords us the opportunity to help all students form strong foundational skills in reading and math while working at a pace that best suits their ability. All teachers use a variety of instructional practices to maintain interest and to foster a growth mind-set; one that encourages children to understand that learning comes in stages.   The K through 5 classes range in size from 12 to 18 students.

In addition to core instruction, we also provided our Tiger Cubs with gym, art, music, library and STEM classes each week.  These opportunities give all children an opportunity to explore various interests and to grow as learners.  Our school also works closely with the town’s recreation department to support student interest in a variety of team sports.  

But one of the key reasons your child will be successful at Fort Fairfield Elementary rests on this trait ~  Our staff genuinely likes and enjoys working with children.  We understand that elementary school years are a time of great growth in a variety of arenas.  Our staff members will be some of your child’s biggest supporters.   This relationship is enhanced through a strong connection with home and families; one that promotes communication throughout the year regarding both moments of success and challenge.  We don’t give up on any of our children because we understand that by embracing a fresh start while building a solid foundation that each child is able to perform at their personal best. 

Come and visit us!  I think you will be pleased and reassured in seeing how we partner with families to provide a happy and productive elementary learning foundation.

Yours in learning,

the Principal Lady