Oconto Falls Elementary School - Oconto Falls, WI

Oconto Falls Elementary School takes pride in its traditions, programs, and history. Upon entry into our school, the district's motto, "Committed to Excellence", is prominently displayed. It is the first of our school's core beliefs - that "good enough" is "not enough" but rather excellence is the goal of everything we do. We strive to meet this high expectation each day.

The basis of our National Blue Ribbon School award is closing academic achievement gaps, and obviously this is critically important. We spend countless hours working to provide students with relevant and engaging learning opportunities, with the goal being continuous growth for all children. However, we refuse to sacrifice the arts, recreational activities, and community service simply to achieve higher test scores. We remain committed to a balanced program. It's all important.

In recent years, a renewed emphasis on staff collaboration has been essential to student success, as tremendous knowledge, skill, and experience exist within our school. Collaboration honors this. We are regularly engaged in vigorous professional dialogue around ideas for improving teaching and learning.

Perhaps the key to helping our children reach their full potential is our emphasis on building positive relationships. Staff members go the extra mile as a matter of course in order to meet student needs. They are flexible, compassionate, and inclusive. The staff at OFES understands that, if approached with passion, open mindedness, and a little humor, there is no better job than working with children. The result is a great culture for learning.