Ryerson Elementary School

Dear Students, Staff, and Parents:

I am thrilled to serve as the Principal of Martin A. Ryerson Elementary School. It is a privilege to lead this learning community during a time of incredible change and tremendous possibilities. Our challenge is to embrace the future of the 21st century and assure that our students are properly prepared to become leaders in this exciting world. In order to accomplish this monumental task we must provide the following: a high level of personalization in every aspect of a student’s elementary school experience, a proud recognition for individual and group accomplishments as well as for diligence and hard work, and, an unwavering commitment to the development of character and civic responsibility in our young people.

To our students, I ask that you reflect on your goals and strive not only to pursue personal excellence but also to demonstrate your perseverance and integrity. Know that I am here to support and encourage you as you explore different possibilities and grow as learners. Remember that with these opportunities, comes both a personal and collective responsibility to be supportive of one another. I will count on you to go beyond tolerance and treat all members of our community with respect. A school that aspires to greatness can expect no less.

To our staff, I pledge my commitment to work together as we strive to full fill our vision, From Good to Great!  In preparing our students for this 21st century world, we must find our strength in a shared determination to inspire students to find their passion and to challenge them to follow their dreams.

To our parents, it is through your support that we make a significant difference in the lives of our students. As we strive to take Ryerson beyond its standing as a Level 1 school to one of national and global recognition, our partnership becomes that much more critical. I understand the importance of this trust and vow to work for the best interests of our students and community.

Serving as principal at Martin A. Ryerson is as great an honor as it is a responsibility. I believe that the foundation of our future accomplishments will be found in the power of our combined efforts and the strength of our synergy. I look forward to meeting and working with you all.

Sincerely,

Conmeka E. Madison, Principal

Click here for the 2011-2012 Student Handbook

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide all students, including those with special needs, with an education in a safe, supportive environment. We will promote excellence in learning for all students by developing a unified approach to improve reading through professional development, while utilizing common reading strategies, and integrating technology across the curriculum.

Vision Statement

The vision of the Martin A. Ryerson Elementary School is to create an environment that will produce literate, socially responsible and respectful citizens. We will establish a safe nurturing, child centered environment based on respect and shared decisions. When students graduate from Ryerson School, they will enjoy and value reading & language. They will be able to understand what is read, as well as speak and write in order to communicate successfully.

THIS IS OUR CHALLENGE AND MISSION. You can help by…    

Attend parent-teacher conferences and other school events.
Build in time to talk and listen to your child every day.
Communicate clearly the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
Don’t let your child settle for doing less than his or her best.
Establish a daily family routine that includes scheduled homework time.
Find out the names of your child’s teachers and principal-and meet with them early in the school year.
Get active in your child’s school. Volunteer to help in the classroom, serve on a committee or go on a field trip.
Help your child stay on track with homework daily.
Involve your child in after-school activities.
Join the LSC or another home/school organization.
Keep good books, magazines and newspapers in your home.
Limit your child’s TV viewing to no more than two hours a day.
Make sure your child goes to school every day.
Notice when your child does something well and praise his or her efforts.
Organize other parents and community members to address problems at your child’s school.
Pay attention to the progress your child is making in school.
Question the learning standards at your child’s school. Every child has a right to a high quality education.
Read to your child every day and let your child read to you, too.
Support school efforts to develop and maintain rules for student discipline.
Tell your child stories about your family and your culture.
Understand what skills your child should be learning at each grade level.
Visit the library regularly.
Write a note or call a teacher when something goes especially well. Don’t forget to encourage your children for their efforts.
eXpect and encourage your child to take tough academic courses.
You are a role model for your child-be sure to set a good example.
Zero in on museums, free concerts and other community events to reinforce your child’s learning.