Dear UES Families!
Welcome to a new school year at University Elementary School!
It is with tremendous enthusiasm and appreciation that I write to welcome you to the 2026–2027 school year! As your new principal, I am genuinely honored to join this incredible community of dedicated educators, engaged parents and guardians, supportive community partners, and most importantly our amazing scholars.Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of meeting many members of our community, and one thing is abundantly clear: University Elementary School is a place where diversity, progress, and unwavering essence of community spirit flourish. My goal as we step into this new academic year is to build upon that strong foundation while continuing to foster an inclusive, supportive, nurturing and high-achieving environment for every scholar. Additionally, one of high expectations whereby students see themselves as active participants in the teaching-learning process.Here is what we are focusing on as we embark on this journey together:
- Academic Excellence & Innovation: Ensuring our students are challenged, curious, and prepared for the future through rigorous and engaging instruction. This is implemented by providing students with opportunities to foster critical thinking by setting high expectations, encouraging self-directed inquiry, and introducing real-world problem-solving. As it states in the Mission Statement of the Irvington Public Schools: Irvington Public Schools inspires and instructs all students to think critically, creatively, and responsibly, to embrace diversity, and to pursue their dreams with purpose. At UES, we are working assiduously to change the narrative and are focused on Building Our Community, One Student at a Time!
- A Culture of Belonging: Creating a safe, inclusive, welcoming school environment whereby students see themselves as essential members of the school community. When children are placed in a well-structured, secure, and nurturing environment, surrounded by responsible and enthusiastic adults, they are able to thrive and surpass expectations.
- Strong Community Partnerships: Working hand-in-hand with families and local stakeholders to support our students’ holistic development. These partnerships are driven by a common purpose: shared goals, mutual trust, deference and a genuine commitment to improving student educational outcomes. Additionally, they create a more supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment by connecting with diverse community resources.
- Reducing the level of student chronic absenteeism. Diminishing the factors and variables that often lead to School Avoidance. One of the most important factors in student success is consistent school attendance. Every school day provides valuable learning opportunities that cannot be fully replicated when students are absent. We ask families to make daily attendance a priority and ensure that students arrive to school on time, prepared to learn, and ready to be energetic and engaged participants.
A Quick Reminder for Families: Please ensure your updated contact information and required back-to-school forms are completed and returned in a timely manner.
Education is a shared responsibility, and I firmly believe that open communication and strong partnerships are instrumental to student success. My door is always open, and I welcome your thoughts, questions, respectful communication and collaboration throughout the year.
Whether you are joining our school community for the first time or returning for another exciting year, I am honored to meet and greet you. I look forward to partnering with our students, families, staff, and community as we work together to make this school year one of growth, triumphs, and wonderful memories.
Thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I cannot wait to see our halls filled with energy and hear the sounds of the lovely voices of our incredible scholars.
Please remember that ATTENDANCE COUNTS! To miss a day is to miss a lot!
Dr. Deniese Cooper, Principal