The Seven Schools Honored

Orchard Hills Elementary School: Top 10% Statewide

Level 1 Distinction – Orchard Hills achieved the highest honor, placing in the top 10% of all Connecticut schools with an accountability score of 89.6%.

Recognized for:

• High Performance and High Growth (All Students) in English Language Arts & Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in ELA & Math

John F. Kennedy Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Performance and High Growth (All Students) in English Language Arts & Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in ELA & Math

Meadowside Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Growth (All Students) in ELA & Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in Math

Calf Pen Meadow Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Growth (All Students) in Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in Math

Live Oaks Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Growth (All Students) in Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in Math

Pumpkin Delight Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Growth (All Students) in Math
• High Growth (High Needs Students) in ELA & Math

Mathewson Elementary School

Recognized for:

• High Growth (High Needs Students) in ELA & Math

What Makes a School of Distinction?

To earn the Schools of Distinction designation, schools must demonstrate overall high performance (top 10% of the state's Accountability Index scores) and/or high academic growth (top 10% for academic growth) in a given year.

Beyond Test Scores

The recognition is based on Connecticut's Next Generation Accountability System, which evaluates schools using 12 comprehensive indicators that extend far beyond traditional test scores and graduation rates.

The 12 indicators include:

• Academic achievement
• Academic growth
• Chronic absenteeism
• College and career readiness
• High school graduation rates
• Postsecondary entrance
• Physical fitness
• Arts education

Overall District Performance: Milford Public Schools earned 78.5% of its total possible points on the accountability system, demonstrating strong performance across multiple success measures.

What District Leaders Are Saying

Superintendent Dr. Anna M. Cutaia

Dr. Cutaia represented Milford at an October 30 state press conference alongside Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker, where districts across the state were recognized for significant academic achievements.

"The recognition of the committed work of our staff can be seen in many ways, including the results we see on the state's Next Generation Accountability System. This represents a shared belief in all students and their individual path to success," Dr. Cutaia said. "It celebrates the extraordinary efforts of our educators and the shared commitment of our community to providing high-quality instruction that helps every student achieve their goals."

Board of Education Chair Susan Glennon

"Through its work with the administration, the Board of Education has prioritized investments in coherent high-quality instruction, teacher support, and student resources that have contributed to these outstanding results. This achievement demonstrates the strength of our vision and the dedication of our school communities working together to advance student outcomes."

Milford's Dual Enrollment Success

During the state press conference, Dr. Cutaia highlighted Milford's expanding Dual Enrollment program as a key component of the district's success.

By the numbers: In the 2024–25 school year, 429 Milford Public Schools students participated in Dual Enrollment courses.

Benefits of Dual Enrollment

• College Credits: Students earn college credits while still in high school
• Cost Savings: Families realize substantial savings on higher education
• Higher Success Rates: Students achieve higher rates of degree and certificate completion after graduation
• Academic Advantages: Early college experience prepares students for post-graduation success

Success with High-Needs Students

A particularly notable aspect of Milford's achievement is the consistent success in serving high-needs students. Multiple schools showed exceptional growth in this demographic across both English Language Arts and Mathematics, demonstrating the district's commitment to ensuring all students reach their full potential regardless of background or circumstances.

A Community-Wide Effort

The district's strong performance reflects collaborative efforts across the entire educational community, representing the collective work of:

• Pre-K-12 students and staff
• The Board of Education
• Community partners
• Parents and families

This recognition serves as both a celebration of current accomplishments and a benchmark for continued excellence in education.

What This Means for Milford Families

For parents and community members, the Schools of Distinction designation offers tangible evidence of the quality education being delivered in Milford's elementary schools. The recognition validates the district's comprehensive approach to student success and the dedication of educators working to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

These achievements position Milford Public Schools among Connecticut's educational leaders and demonstrate that the district's investments in instruction, teacher support, and student resources are paying dividends for Milford's children.

Have questions about Milford Public Schools or want to share your own experiences? Visit The Milford Times online for more education news and updates.