Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School Named 2022-23 CT Middle School of the Year

OLD LYME — The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) has announced that Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School (LOLMS) has been selected as the Middle School of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year. This recognition highlights the exceptional commitment of the school, its staff, and the entire community to providing an outstanding middle school education that fosters academic growth and social-emotional development.

In its announcement of the award, Tiffany Caouette, CAS Assistant Executive Director states, “One of the remarkable aspects of LOLMS is its strong emphasis on involving parents and the community to support student learning and healthy development. Throughout the school year, LOLMS hosts multiple events where community members can participate and engage with the school and its students. Events such as the National History Day Showcase, Career Day, Wellness Day, and Spring into the Arts provide opportunities for families and community members to contribute and support student learning.”

She continues, “Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School also offers exceptional academic support to students. The Learning Labs program provides tiered intervention support, including Academic Lab and Math Connections, to help students develop essential executive functioning skills and address math skill gaps. Regular updates and additional support from teachers ensure that students receive the personalized attention they need to succeed.”

The announcement notes that a key characteristic of LOLMS is its continuous effort to review and improve educational programming. Through Learning Walks and classroom observations, teachers have the opportunity to learn from their colleagues and enhance their instructional practices. The school has also conducted a comprehensive review of its SRBI (Scientific Research-Based Interventions) program, incorporating best practices and refining intervention strategies to ensure all students receive an appropriately challenging education.

Caouette says, “Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School prioritizes the significance of fostering healthy relationships and emotional support for students.” She elaborates by explaining, “Through counseling services, daily recess, and initiatives such as Pursuits, the advisory program where students are assigned to multi-age groups by interest in order to participate in shared activities such as wood-burning and reading books to preschool students, students are encouraged to connect with trusted adults, develop friendships, and maintain a healthy balance in their lives.”

Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School Principal Mark Ambruso was thrilled to receive the award. He commented, “The Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School faculty, staff, students, and communities are honored to receive this recognition. We work diligently so that our students receive the highest quality education and are provided with the experiences and skills necessary to achieve their academic and career potential. We strive to provide a middle school experience that meets the needs of the whole child in an environment that emphasizes kindness and hard work.”

Caouette concludes, “The School of the Year recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire LOLMS staff, students, families, and the community. Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School’s commitment to educational excellence, community engagement, and creating a safe and supportive environment sets an exceptional standard for schools across Connecticut and nationwide.”