August 25: Meet and Greet for Students: 10:00 - 11:00 AM 

August 26:  1st Day of School for all Students

August 29: No School - Labor Day Weekend

September 1:  Labor Day / No School

September 9:  PTO Meeting - KRES- NL Library (2nd Tuesdays)

September  11: School Picture Day, SMILE! (retakes are October 29)

September 11: Grade 4/5 Patriot Day Commemoration 

October 10:  No School Teacher Professional Development

October 13:  No School:  Columbus Day

Welcome to the 2025-2026 School Year!

I’m honored to begin the 2025–2026 school year as the interim principal of New London Elementary School. It is a true privilege to work with the students, families, faculty, and staff of this exceptional community. I firmly believe that the Kearsarge School District is one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.

While change, big or small, can be challenging, I understand that this shift brings with it a wide range of emotions. I want to acknowledge that, and assure you that I approach this role with both humility and enthusiasm. My time as assistant principal in the district has taught me that the strength of a school lies in its people, and in our ability to learn from and lift one another up. I’m excited to work alongside you and share in the dedication, care, and joy that define this school community as we embrace what lies ahead this school year.

I have been grateful to work in this district since 2014. This district and community are built on a foundation of collaboration and care. Our teachers and staff support one another and work tirelessly to create the best possible experience for our students. As Simon Sinek put it: “It is better to have a great team than a team of greats.” 

Before joining Kearsarge, I worked professionally in Boston and taught mathematics for twelve years in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. I earned my Master of Education in Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, in 2006.

I’m also a parent of two high schoolers, and their elementary experiences helped shape their love of learning and understanding of what it means to be a student. These early years are critical; this is when children begin to form their mindset about school, themselves, and their potential. When we embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, we help children understand the importance of a growth mindset, which will pave the way for lifelong learning and success.

Though my most recent experience has been at the high school level, I know that fostering curiosity, independence, and compassion is important across all levels. The needs may look different at each stage, but the goal remains the same, and we will scaffold supports to meet students where they are.

Over the past eleven years, I’ve built strong relationships with students and staff at the high school, and I’ll deeply miss those connections.  I am passionate about high-quality, student-centered education at every level, and I’m eager to form new partnerships in New London.  I feel thankful that I have ties within the community and a deep understanding of the district.  I strongly believe in shared, collective leadership, and I look forward to partnering with faculty and the community for that purpose.

I look forward to a wonderful year ahead. 

Warmly,
Laura Newman

New Report Card and Trimesters: 

After many years of working on learning targets and grading practices, all students in the Kearsarge district elementary schools will receive an updated report card this year. This will also include a shift to trimesters, or three (3) marking periods. This will allow teachers a longer window to assess students, to more accurately reflect their progress. We believe the new report will provide greater clarity regarding student progress. We ask for your patience as this new report card is rolled out as we continue to try to create uniformity between all the elementary schools.  Our first trimester will close on December 5th.   

Facilities Updates: 

Our facilities teams worked hard this summer to prepare, clean, and renovate learning spaces through KRES New London, including an updated sprinkler system installed in the main building.   Most classrooms will have a ViewSonic viewboard this year, with teacher training on their use happening this week.  ViewSonic viewboards are large, high-resolution touchscreens with annotation tools for teachers to write or draw directly on the screen. Additionally, a few additional chain-link climbing elements and lily pod steppers have been added to the playground for students to enjoy this year.  The ramp to the gym and music room is in the process of being repaired.  Lastly, the SAU offices have relocated closer to the main entrance of the Professional Development Center (PDC), freeing up space on the other end for KRES New London.  As a result, KRES NL now has a dedicated conference room for IEP or meetings and space for ESOL and social work services.

Health Reminders

• Families are encouraged to communicate directly with our school nurse regarding any health concerns, so appropriate actions can be taken to support the wellness of each student and our school community. Please reach out to our School Nurse, Margaux Nichols, at mnichols@kearsarge.org if you have any questions.

• Please make sure all health records, including required medical examinations, are on file.

• Additional information can be found on the district website at this link: https://www.kearsarge.org/district/krsd-health-and-wellness-information

Cafe Services

• Breakfast $2.25/Lunch $3.50/Milk $.65

• There are Free and Reduced rates for those who qualify. Please reach out if you need assistance with this process. The Free and Reduced lunch application can be accessed at the following link: Free & Reduced Lunch. 

• Link to Fresh Picks Cafe Services information: https://www.kearsarge.org/district/fresh-picks-lunch-program/links/fresh-picks-lunch-menu

• You can also contact Melina Cochran at fsd@kearsarge.org.

Annual Online Student Forms 

Forms are required and must be reviewed and submitted yearly, even if there are no changes. We appreciate your assistance in completing this process as soon as possible.

How to Access the Forms:

1) Log into your PowerSchool Parent/Guardian Portal Account: PS Portal Link

2) Click Forms in the menu to the left

3) Begin the first form

1P: KRSD Appendix D for Parents

Required forms include:

• Appendix D - Chromebook & Digital Device Use Agreement

• Demographics for Students and Contacts

• Permissions and Additional Info.

• Student Health Forms

• Any additional forms required for your student will be listed under the Parent/Guardian section

*If you do not remember your username and/or password, please email forms.help@kearsarge.org or contact Jen Nurme for assistance.