Tootin’ Hills School is celebrated through its mascot, a train engine. Outside the principal’s office, a mural depicts ‘The Little Engine That Could’, from Watty Piper’s 1930 children’s classic of the same name. “I think I can; I think I can” – these are the words that sum up the collective attitude of our school community. Tootin’ Hills Elementary School serves a student population of approximately 375 students, kindergarten through grade six. We embrace a diverse population both culturally and socio-economically. In addition, we have a Ready, Set, Go program for children with autism. There is an incredible amount to accomplish at every grade level in the areas of literacy, mathematics, science, social studies and in the arts. Our rigorous curriculum sets the stage for our success. We highly value collaboration with families– a partnership that promotes year-round learning and nurtures the desire for life-long learning for our students. At Tootin’ Hills School we have well-rounded and highly capable students. They are the foundation of our success and we are very proud of their accomplishments academically, artistically, and athletically. We are continually impressed with their achievements. Every adult in our school recognizes his or her role in promoting and supporting such achievement. Every adult in our school also acts as a role model and as a teacher. Tootin’ Hills School is built on the character ideals of Respect, Responsibility, Caring and Integrity. We believe that developing these character traits, in addition to promoting a positive growth mindset, are as important as academic achievement in developing the whole child. Our parents are a constant, visible presence in our school. They encourage and motivate their children. They are present as volunteers in classrooms, managing projects, working as members of our PTO, or simply lending a hand for an hour or two. They can be counted upon to support the efforts of their children and of our teachers. They are highly educated, understand the value of educational achievement and generally provide rich life experiences for their children outside of the school day. They, too, are the foundation of our success and we who teach are ever so grateful for their continual support and collaboration. Our teachers work extremely hard at the craft of teaching and learning. They are continually working at refining their skills and improving their effectiveness. As members of Professional Learning Communities, they are enthusiastic about their collaborative efforts toward instructional improvement and student achievement. The professional development that results from these relationships is of the highest quality. The development of teacher leadership skills is also a hallmark of our school. Teachers are actively involved on committees and in groups dedicated to continuous improvement across the district. We are proud of our many building-based programs: involvement in Open Choice; art club; student council; book buddies, cultural enrichment, field trips; the multitude of programs sponsored by our Parent-Teacher Organization; and Camp Jewell Outdoor Education program. Tootin’ Hills School’s success continues to depend on collaboration– parents/guardians, children, teachers, and the Simsbury community. We will not be truly successful until 100% of our students reach 100% of our goals every year.
