Tariffville Elementary School


Emergency information

42 Winthrop Street
Tariffville, CT 06081
Phone: (860) 658-5825
Fax: (860) 658-3626

Principal: Kristine L. Murdick-Coles

Tariffville School Annual Report & Continuous Improvement Plan  

Principal's Message

Welcome to Tariffville School, National School of Character. Over the past year, Tariffville School has undergone a six-million-dollar addition and renovation project resulting in interior and exterior building improvements, additional classrooms, and a new wing. Tariffville School is listed on the National Historic Register, and the project has successfully maintained the appearance of the structure since it was established in 1925. Adding a distinctive element to the historic architecture is the original owl, which is the school mascot, and the school motto, Knowledge Is Power, both of which are engraved on the facade of the building. With the project complete, the entire community is elated to welcome back the return of Kindergarten, which had been relocated to Central School for the past seven years as a result of redistricting.

Tariffville School prides itself on the high academic achievement of our students, an exemplary character education program that has received national recognition, and strong parent and community involvement. The school mission statement supports our belief that all children will learn and reach their fullest potential.

"The Tariffville School community provides a safe and nurturing environment where mutual respect among adults and students is practiced, diversity is celebrated, and where parents and families are seen as valued partners in layering the foundation of life-long learning.

Our school implements a rigorous curriculum with high academic expectations and cultivates the character development of each student. We prepare our students to be successful learners and responsible citizens in today's world." 

The faculty and administration engage in a continuous improvement process within a professional learning community that focuses on improving student learning and instruction. The annual report, published in the fall, summarizes the results of student improvement in relation to the identified school goal and priority areas for the previous school year.

This year, one of our faculty members received the American Heroes in Education Award, sponsored by Ronald McDonald House Charities. Last year, Tariffville School was recognized as one of ten of the highest ranking elementary schools in Connecticut for raising student performance and helping to close the achievement gap on the 2007 CMT.  

In the spring of 2005, Tariffville School was one of ten schools in the United States to earn the distinction of "National School of Character." The CLIMB (Character Lives In My Behavior) program incorporates four character ideals–Caring, Respect, Responsibility and Citizenship–which form the foundation of the school culture. Students are recognized and accomplishments are celebrated, including numerous service and community projects that are ongoing throughout the school year.

Activities offered beyond the school day include intramural sports, skiing, art and music programs, and a variety of clubs organized by the school staff and parents.

Parent volunteers are welcomed and encouraged to assist in classrooms and at special events. The PTO works in partnership with the faculty and staff. This dedicated group of parents provides support for curriculum resources, equipment, enrichment programs, and sponsor numerous events and activities for our students throughout the year.

As a result of the cooperative efforts and collective talents of a dedicated faculty and staff, parents, and students, Tariffville School provides an enriching and challenging environment that fosters success for all learners.

Regards,

Kristine L. Murdick-Coles, Principal