The Central cluster of schools gathered with parents, community partners and key stakeholders for a Community CONNECTion event on October 20 at Central Elementary School, showing off a new Early Learning Academy that combines traditional foundational instruction for early learners with an experiential learning adventure including discovery-based learning spaces like the new Activity Room and inquiry-based learning strategies.
After informal networking time, Superintendent Dr. Jessica Ainsworth welcomed guests and unveiled the Carroll County School System's freshly minted 2026 Annual Report. The report which highlights student and employee achievements from last school year was formally introduced at last month's board meeting.
Central High School Principal Kelly Edwards shared some specific connection points and highlights for the Central cluster before dividing the audience into three groups for a feedback activity. Administrators led participants to share both areas where Central schools are thriving and areas where they would like to see enhancements, improvements and further investment.
Finally, Central Elementary School Principal Marla Turpin introduced the Early Learning Academy and toured participants through the newly renovated spaces that received aesthetic and safety upgrades including new flooring and lighting in hallways and classrooms, age-specific branding and signage and enhanced security features to create a modern, secure academy feel.
The academy model is built around the framework of "Wonder. Explore. Create." and guided by feedback from parent focus groups in the community. Foundational learning is enhanced with cross-curricular projects and engaging excursions that demonstrate classroom lessons in the real world.
Each cluster of schools in Carroll County is hosting a community connection this fall as the school district implements its 2026-27 theme: CONNECT.
