Swallow Union Elementary School has earned the prestigious 2024 Schools of Recognition award from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), placing it among an elite group of just over 50 schools across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to receive this distinction. This accolade highlights Swallow Union's outstanding progress in meeting annual accountability targets, mainly through the success of all students and significant improvements among its lowest-performing students.
Entering her third year as principal, Mrs. Jill Jarvis expressed immense pride in these achievements, sharing, "These recognitions and high achievements are the direct result of dedicated and reflective practitioners, both past and present, who care deeply about students in and out of the classroom." Mrs. Jarvis continued, "We foster students' development of problem-solving minds, accepting productive struggles as part of the journey, how to overcome them, and ensuring they know just how much they belong in their classroom, school, and community."
Adding to its accolades, Swallow Union Elementary was ranked as the #3 elementary school in Massachusetts in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Based on public data from the U.S. Department of Education, this prestigious recognition further underscores the school's outstanding commitment to academic excellence and its success in fostering an environment where all students can thrive.
Second-grade teacher Mrs. Julie Bushnell shared her pride in the school's achievements, saying, "Being ranked third in the state is such an honor for Swallow Union and reflects the commitment of our amazing school community. The kids bring energy and excitement for learning every day, our families are incredibly supportive, and the staff is fully dedicated to helping every student succeed. I feel so lucky to be part of such a special place!"
With 210 students spanning kindergarten through fourth grade, Swallow Union's close-knit environment fosters staff collaboration and innovative teaching practices. The award reflects the tireless dedication of Swallow Union teachers and staff, whose passion for education creates a dynamic learning atmosphere.
"The DESE Award of recognition Swallow Union received is a testament to our entire staff's incredible collaboration and unwavering dedication," shared third-grade teacher Mrs. Nancy Keegan. "As a teacher here for the last 24 years, Swallow Union is where we have high expectations for all our students. Our students' physical, behavioral, social, and emotional development is as important as their academics."
Mrs. Genervre Jankowski, who teaches fourth grade at Swallow Union, echoed this sentiment: "Being recognized by the state is an amazing achievement. Anyone who is or has been a part of Swallow Union knows what a special place it is, and it is wonderful to see the hard work of our students, teachers, staff, and families translated into student growth and achievement."
The Massachusetts Schools of Recognition program emphasizes the importance of equity and achievement for all students. Swallow Union's success is a testament to the school and the district's unwavering commitment to these values.
This achievement reflects Swallow Union's deep commitment to growth and achievement, making it a model for excellence in education across the state. The entire school community should feel proud of this well-deserved recognition!
Here's a glimpse into a typical Swallow Union Elementary School day, where learning, creativity, and joy fill the halls.
