Congratulations to Ivy Drive School- Named a Connecticut School of Distinction

Dear BPS Community,

I am incredibly proud to share that Ivy Drive School has been named a 2026 Connecticut School of Distinction for High Growth for High Needs Students in Mathematics by the Connecticut State Department of Education!

This well-deserved recognition is a testament to the strong instructional leadership of Principal Erika Coleman and the extraordinary dedication of the teachers, staff, students, and families who make up the Ivy Drive school community.
When Erika became Interim Principal and later Principal, she prioritized building a positive school culture and climate where students and staff feel supported, valued, and connected. With that foundation established, she worked alongside her teachers and staff to strengthen the school's focus on data-driven instruction, meeting the diverse needs of students, and improving academic outcomes for all learners.

I want to especially recognize Ivy Drive's teachers, whose hard work, expertise, and unwavering commitment to their students are at the heart of this achievement. Every day, our teachers work tirelessly to provide meaningful instruction, identify learning needs, adjust their teaching, and ensure that every student has opportunities to grow and succeed. Their dedication, along with the support of the entire school staff, makes a tremendous difference in the lives of our students.

What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is that it celebrates the academic growth of students with the greatest needs. Ivy Drive has demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that all learners, including those who need the most support, receive the instruction, encouragement, and opportunities they deserve. This recognition reflects the school's belief that every child is capable of growth and that our responsibility as educators is to help every student reach their fullest potential.
I always enjoy visiting Ivy Drive because of its genuine sense of family. Ivy Drive was living our Better Together theme long before it became our districtwide focus!

This achievement demonstrates what is possible when a supportive school culture, strong instructional leadership, dedicated teachers and staff, and a shared commitment to the success of every student come together.
Congratulations to Principal Coleman, our outstanding Ivy Drive teachers and staff, students, and families! Your collective efforts are making a measurable difference in student learning, and this recognition is something the entire school community should celebrate.

We are so proud of you!
Better Together!
Iris White
Superintendent of Schools