The Manchester Township Elementary School, Home of the Dragons, is a community of caring individuals dedicated to meeting the needs of all students. It is the mission of MTES to “cultivate a strong partnership between the school and community” and to foster responsibility, integrity, excellence, and academic achievement in all areas.

MTES continues to provide its students with a variety of programs designed to address their academic, social, and emotional skills. In addition to reading/language arts, mathematics, social studies and science, our students have the opportunity to participate in vocal and instrumental music, art, physical education activities, and world language instruction. MTES has a computer lab, along with computers in the Media Center and the children also have computers in their classrooms with internet access. Additionally, MTES offers full-day kindergarten. This full-day program allows children and teachers time to explore topics in-depth, provides for greater continuity of day-to-day activities, and provides an environment that favors a child-centered, developmentally appropriate approach. We do promote academic rigor with collaboration from the student’s home. With this combination, the children will be successful in the 21st century. The services of a Guidance Counselor are also offered to all students for additional emotional support.

MTES utilizes a variety of resources to ensure an excellent education for all our students. In addition to our regular staff members, classroom volunteers are used extensively throughout the school. These volunteers are comprised of parents, local senior citizens, and community members. A before and after care program is offered at the school through the YMCA to accommodate working parents.

Numerous additional programs are also in place during school hours and before or after school. NJ ASK 3, 4, & 5 test preparation programs provide test taking strategies and problem solving techniques that assist the students in meeting the challenges of the state’s testing requirements. Our Junior Impact Club promotes student learning, civic responsibility and service to others. This club provides elements of community service with activities sponsored by the local Rotary Club. Our “Values of the Month” help promote a positive school climate, tolerance and respect for one another. MTES also offers a SHAPE program that is geared toward both academic and social support. At the end of the program, there is a project presentation in which the parents participate with their children.

CORE CURRICULUM

The staff at MTES has continued to review, update and revise curriculum, programs and methods of assessment as part of a district-wide initiative. There is an ongoing process that ensures that all the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards are being addressed within our curriculum. Staff development is provided at building and district levels with the primary focus on differentiating instruction for our students and enhancing reading and writing skills. All staff at MTES are Highly Qualified Professionals and believe in our motto “Excellence by Example.” Our goal is to prepare students for the future and to enable them to become productive and caring citizens.