Wilmot Elementary School first opened its doors in 1847, after Clarissa Wilmot deeded a portion of land from her family farm to create the first Wilmot School. Wilmot has seen a great many changes during the past 160 years, but the spirit of Wilmot has remained strong throughout the past century and a half. During the sesquicentennial celebration, the Wilmot family created two time capsules: one to be opened after five years and the other after fifty years. Unfortunately, nearly eight years passed before the five-year time capsule was opened. Last June, at an all school assembly, our fifth grade students opened the time capsule and revealed its contents. Prior to this big event students submitted guesses as to what they thought the time capsule might contain. Many of these were read aloud as items were removed and shared with the full student body. Some of the items removed included an old yearbook, a Wilmot directory, Giga Pets, Bulls tickets, information about Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, as well as a Wilmot t-shirt and many items used in conjunction with the 150th anniversary celebration. These items are all on display in the Wilmot showcase. The culminating activity of our end-of-the-year assembly was the creation of a new six year time capsule, created by our fifth grade students. In 2011, we will disclose the contents of this time capsule representing the school year 2004-2005.

Wilmot Elementary is home to approximately 570 students in grades K-5. Our staff promotes a nurturing environment that supports students academically and emotionally. Students are encouraged to be self-directed, responsible, curious, open-minded, and hard working. We empower students through excellence in education. By differentiating curriculum, materials, and instructional strategies, we are able to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

I am proud to say that we have set high standards for our students and that every person in the Wilmot community is accountable for the success of each child. Students are exposed to a wide variety of learning opportunities that provide a strong foundation in reading, writing, math, science, social studies, technology, and fine arts. By personalizing the learning process, our staff continuously monitors each student’s growth accommodating to meet individual needs as necessary.

Wilmot School was named as a U.S. Department of Education 2008 Blue Ribbon School. This is an honor for the entire Wilmot community.

The spirit of collaboration is evident in the high level of participation by our Wilmot families and members of the local community. Parent volunteers and our very active PTO have helped make Wilmot the dynamic learning environment that it is today. On any given day, parent volunteers can be found reading to children, making copies for teachers, decorating our walls, or fundraising to support programs and activities.

Through the ongoing assistance of our families, students receive additional supports in all academic areas, exposure to many cultural events and activities, and opportunities to experience lessons and programs to make them socially responsible members of our community.

I am very proud of the achievements of the Wilmot Family. As you visit our school website and learn more about the students, staff, and parents of Wilmot school, I am sure you will join me in applauding their efforts and accomplishments. Through continued collaboration, this will be an outstanding year for every Wilmot student. Let the journey begin!