Superintendent Update: January 2026

Happy New Year, Lebanon School District Community,

As we return from the break, students will spend the next few days settling back into routines, with teachers and staff supporting them as they transition into the second half of the year. Winter can feel long in New Hampshire, but inside our schools, there's a sense of renewal—new year, new goals, new classes, and new opportunities.

This is also a time to reflect on the progress we are making toward our Strategic Plan and Vision of a Learner/Graduate. Across the district, students continue to build the foundations of collaboration, curiosity, and responsibility as they deepen their understanding of what it means to contribute to a classroom and a community. For our seniors, this vision comes into focus as they explore post-graduation plans, careers, and ways they can contribute to civic life beyond Lebanon. They are learning not only what comes next, but how to engage thoughtfully, ethically, and purposefully in their communities. Whether we are strengthening academic supports, expanding enrichment opportunities, or continuing to build positive school cultures both in and out of the classroom, our focus remains ensuring every student in Lebanon is known, challenged, supported, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

In partnership,

Amy Allen
Superintendent

Celebrating critical & creative thinkers, local and global citizens, and demonstrated empathy & resilience

A Hanover Street School staff member sent in this shoutout: "I want to recognize Tristan Bagley in 3rd grade. Tristan is a hard worker and a kind friend. He has learned many ways to manage frustrations and persevere through tough situations. He brings a positive mindset to his class community. I have been lucky to watch him progress from his Kindergarten days to the 3rd grader he is today. Keep up the great work Tristan!" Good job Tristan --- Principal Wheelan adds that Tristan "has come so far this year that seeing him makes the whole staff happy. Melanie Deroehn works with him and deserves a ton of credit."

A staff member at MLS sent in the following shoutout: "Isabella Kairys is a 4th grader at Mt. Leb who is genuinely a good kid! You’ll never meet a student more willing to help others. She actively looks for ways to take care of things in the classroom, or whatever space she’s in! She’s a kind friend to all. She also works hard at her classwork. She continually helps her family understand what is going on in the school community, by double-checking dates and events and advocating for translated notes (when needed) to Portuguese that she then brings home to her parents."

Know a special student who deserves a shoutout? Email Amy Allen (aallen@sau88.net) to let her know!

Lebanon Teachers: Growing, Leading, and Inspiring

A Lebanon Middle School staff member sent in the following about math teacher Mrs. Jones: "Elizabeth Jones is in her 22nd year teaching math at Lebanon Middle School. She is kind and firm with her students, and they respond extremely well to her and they appreciate her! She's also a friendly colleague - professional and collaborative at every turn. Thank you, Mrs. Jones!"

Know a staff member who deserves a shoutout? Email Amy Allen (aallen@sau88.net) to let her know!

The District's Deliberative Session is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, at LMS at 9:00 a.m. (The snow date is Monday, February 2 at 6:00 pm also at LMS) The administrative team works hard to present a budget proposal that reflect our district’s priorities: safe and well-maintained schools, competitive staffing to retain excellent educators, and programs that support the diverse needs of our students. At the same time, we are deeply mindful of the cost of education and the importance of being responsible stewards of public funds. Your involvement and feedback help us make thoughtful, informed decisions that balance educational excellence with fiscal responsibility. All budget documents are here for your review.

Please be sure students are dressed warmly for cold mornings, bus stops, and recess. Students generally go outside for recess unless it's below 10 degrees. For additional winter gear, reach out to your students' specific school administrator. Our schools often have a supply of extra winter apparel. Additionally, LISTEN can provide vouchers for clothing. Reach out to a service coordinator at 603-448-4553.

For snow day and delay calls, check WMUR’s School Closings, WCAX, and the SAU 88 website for updates. You will also get school communications via Schoolmessenger.

• Wednesday, January 14: School Board Meeting/Budget Public Hearing, 6:30 p.m. in the LMS Cafeteria
• Monday, January 19: MLK Jr. Day NO SCHOOL
• Wednesday, January 28: School Board Meeting, 6:30 pm in the LMS Cafeteria
• Saturday, January 31: Deliberative Session 9:00 am at LMS
• Monday, February Deliberative Session Snow Date 6:00 pm at LMS (this will only happen if 1/31 is postponed)

• Mondays beginning January 12 - Monday, February 2 Focus & Flow Children's Yoga for kids ages 5 -10 at the CCBA. 4:15 - 4:45 PM ($40/members/$50 non-members). Call 603-448-6477 for more information.
  
• Monday, January 19 Raider Winter Classic 10:00 am - 3:30, Campion Rink, 394 N Main St. West Lebanon. Watch girls and boys hockey games (LMK at 10am; LSM at 1:30 pm) with a public skate with the hockey players beginning at 12:10pm. Concessions, raffles, prizes, and more! $5.00 suggested donation for public skate
• Friday, January 23: S'more Ice Skating Party, Ice Rinks at Pat Walsh Park, Bank St. Extension, Lebanon, NH 6:00 - 8:00 pm (free)
• Saturday, January 24: The Gruffalo and Stop-Motion Animation Creation HopStop and Junction Arts & Media, Loew Auditorium, Hanover, NH 11:00 am, free ( Registration is encouraged but not required. This workshop is best suited for youth ages 6 and up. More information here )
• Saturday, January 31: Full Moon Fiesta, Storrs Hill Ski Lodge 6:00 - 8:00 pm

  The family can enjoy snowshoeing, skiing, or snowboarding at Storrs Hill Ski Lodge. Local restaurants will offer light food and hot beverages. All proceeds benefit Lebanon Recreation, Arts and Parks/Lebanon Outing Club. This is an eco-friendly event - please bring your own mug, spoon, and bowl. (Ages 5 & Under: Free; Ages 6-12 $5; 13+ $10; Family Pass $30)

Open SAU88 positions here.