Superintendent Update: October

Good morning Lebanon School District Community,
October has arrived, and with it a new rhythm to our school days. The excitement of the first weeks has settled into the routines of learning, and our classrooms and athletic fields are alive with spirit, collaboration, and growth.
October is a chance to see our Strategic Plan in action. Whether it’s students exploring new ideas in the classroom, teachers using innovative approaches to deepen learning, or families partnering with schools to strengthen community connections, the goals we’ve set together are coming to life each day. Our focus on academic excellence, student well-being, and strong community partnerships is shaping not just what we do, but how we do it.
As fall concerts, theater productions, and family-teacher conferences approach, I am reminded that the heart of our plan is simple: Every student should feel challenged, supported, and inspired. These moments—both in and beyond the classroom—are where that vision shines through.
Here’s to a month of learning, connection, and the beauty of fall in the Upper Valley.
In partnership,
Amy Allen
Superintendent
Staff Shoutout: Postmarked with Positivity
Lebanon Educators: Growing, Leading, and Inspiring
A parent recently shared how much a simple act of kindness meant to their family. On the eve of starting high school, a former LMS student received a postcard from Mrs. Armstrong wishing him luck. That small gesture gave him a big boost of confidence—and reminded his family of the lasting impact a caring teacher can have. Thank you, Mrs. Armstrong, for going above and beyond for your students!
Know a staff member who deserves a shoutout? Email Amy Allen (aallen@sau88.net) to let her know!
STUDENT SHOUTOUT: Champion of Cheer
Celebrating critical & creative thinkers, local and global citizens, and demonstrated empathy & resilience
Three cheers for senior Khyla Avery who has spent the past four years recruiting coaches and teammates to keep Lebanon High School cheerleading going. Despite having three different coaches in four years, she’s never stopped showing up, stepping up, and cheering on the Raiders!
Her commitment embodies the perseverance and determination we hope to see in every Lebanon graduate—proving that true school spirit means never giving up on something you're passionate about.
Know a student who embodies the spirit of a Lebanon graduate/learner? Email Amy Allen (aallen@sau88.net) to let her know!
Lebanon's Strategic Plan: Our Vision On the Walls
You may have noticed new posters in classrooms and hallways during back-to-school events or open houses these past few weeks. These graphic renderings highlight the Strategic Plan and our vision for Lebanon learners and graduates. The posters are more than decoration—they’re reminders of the skills and qualities we want every student to develop, like curiosity, empathy, and resilience.
2025–26 Budget Planning Has Begun
Recently, the Superintendent sent a community-wide email outlining the start of the budget planning process. If you missed the email, you can read it here.
2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR
IMPORTANT DATES📆
- Wednesday, October 8: Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day at Hanover Street School
- Wednesday, October 8: School Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the LMS Cafeteria
- Friday, October 10: No School Professional Development
- Monday, October 13: No School Columbus/Indigenous Peoples' Day
- Thursday, October 16: LMS Open House 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 22: School Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the LMS Cafeteria
- Wednesday, October 23: Picture Retake Day
- Thursday, October 30: PK-8th Conferences, Early Release PK-8 (LHS regular day)
- Friday, October 31: PK-8th Conferences, No School PK-8th (LHS regular day)
Family & Community Partnerships & Programs
Friday, October 3: Magic Rocks! With Illusionist Leon Etienne at LOH 6:30 pm. More information and tickets here.
Friday, October 10 and Monday, October 13: No School Fun with Lebanon Rec! Lebanon Rec is offering no-school activities for students in grades 5-8. On Friday students will go to Altitude Trampoline park and Friendly's. On Monday, they will play outdoor laser tag at Strategy Zone. Register online.
Saturday, October 11: Cardboard Costumes for All Ages at the Montshire Museum 10:30 am - 3:30 pm Try kid-safe tabletop cardboard cutting machines and other tools to create a cardboard costume. More info here.
Saturday, October 18: Free CCBA Annual Fall Festival & Open House 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuesday, October 21: Free Backyard Composting Workshop sponsored by Sustainable Lebanon at the Kilton Library, 6:00 - 7:30 pm. Contact Lorraine Kelly with questions. Ltompkinskelly@gmail.com
Friday, October 24 Spooky Science for K-6 at the Montshire Museum 5:30 - 8:00 pm
This (not so scary) event is designed especially for families with children through age 12. Enjoy a night at the Montshire, in costume, with exhibits, Halloween demos, spooky stations, and more! More information here.
Friday, October 31: Free Halloween FunFest Colburn Park 4:00 - 6:00 pm
(Official trick-or-treating hours in Lebanon are 6:00 - 8:00 pm)
Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9: PTO Craft Fair at Lebanon High School 9:00 am - 4:00pm (Sat) 9:00am - 1:00 pm (Sun). Local artists will sell handmade artwork and crafts to benefit the elementary and middle school PTOs.
Rec Basketball Signups for students K-6 are now open. More information here.
Looking for a flexible way to support our students? Join our team of bus drivers and help get students to games, field trips, and special events — see all open SAU88 positions here.