Dear Wilkinson team members & families,

I wanted to share an exciting update in the life of our school community. For those who may not have heard, the Sarasota County School Board voted last week to approve the Future Focused Strategic Initiative. For more information about the Future Focused Strategic Initiative, please visit: www.sarasotacountyschools.net/page/futurefocused.

The Future Focused Strategic Initiative is a districtwide plan designed to update school programs and better utilize district campuses and facilities. Thank you to those who participated in the school district’s Parent & Family Interest Survey, as well as the recent community meetings. Your insights were a key factor throughout the planning process. As a result, we are one of several schools that will see changes soon in anticipation of the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.

Wilkinson Elementary will be reimagined as a K–8 school through a phased roll-up over the next three years. We will be welcoming 6th grade students next school year (2026-2027); 7th grade students the following year (2027-2028); and 8th grade students in the final expansion year (2028-2029). The K–8 model offers students, families, and communities a continuous and stable learning environment from early childhood through adolescence. Due to fewer points of transition, students experience stronger relationships with teachers, greater academic consistency, and improved development. Research shows that K–8 students often maintain higher academic achievement and engagement through the continuity of instruction and expectations.

Wilkinson will maintain its emphasis on rigorous and relevant STEAM learning opportunities, equipping our children with the creative and analytical skills we know they will need for future academic and career success. We will continue to have many opportunities for student and family engagement both during and after the school day, including our STEAM Family Nights and our Saturday Fun Days in collaboration with community partners. We are excited to welcome more students & families into our extended Wilkinson family in the coming years.

Please remember that YOU are a vital part of your child's learning journey! If you have not done so already, I encourage you to get involved by being at school regularly and on time, talk about work habits with your child, attend meetings at school, and check grades on the Focus Parent Portal regularly. These are important aspects of a successful education. If you ever need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out and let us know. We are honored to be your partner in learning and thank you for your continued support!

Sincerely,

Principal Susan Nations

Wilkinson Elementary School

Phone: (941) 361-6477

Wilkinson Elementary School

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