Regional School District 18 serves the communities of Lyme and Old Lyme, Connecticut, providing education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Located at 53 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, this district is home to five schools and approximately 1,288 students, offering a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience.
A Closer Look at the Schools and Programs
The district is organized into two K-5 elementary schools, an early childhood center, a middle school for grades 6-8, and a high school for grades 9-12. This structure ensures that students receive age-appropriate instruction and support at every stage of their academic journey.
Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School, located within the district, was named Middle School of the Year for 2022-2023 by the Connecticut Association of Schools, a testament to its commitment to excellence. The middle school emphasizes continuous improvement through targeted skill-building blocks, supporting students who need extra help while also enhancing learning for all. This includes a strong focus on inclusion, with interventions provided in regular classrooms to support students with disabilities.
At the high school level, Lyme-Old Lyme High School is recognized for its outstanding financial literacy education, having earned this distinction four times by 2024. The school also boasts award-winning art, music, and robotics programs, alongside an exceptional world language curriculum that includes Latin and Chinese. Impressively, 42 students earned the Seal of Biliteracy in 2024, showcasing their proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in multiple languages.
Academic and Extracurricular Excellence
The district prides itself on offering a “private school experience in a public school setting,” with a strong academic program that rivals both public and private schools in Connecticut. Students benefit from a robust athletics program, with 80% participation in sports.
The high school fields 14 boys’ teams and 15 girls’ teams, including cooperative teams in ice hockey, football, swimming, field hockey, and cheerleading. Recent state championships in boys basketball, wrestling, crew, girls tennis, and girls soccer highlight the district’s competitive spirit and dedication to athletics.
Beyond sports, the district fosters creativity and innovation through its arts and robotics programs, ensuring students develop diverse skills and interests. The district also maintains a commitment to equity and inclusion, with only 10% minority enrollment and a relatively low percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals compared to state averages.
Operating Hours and Contact Information
For those interested in visiting or contacting the district offices, Regional School District 18 is located at 53 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT. The district office operates during regular business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Specific school hours may vary, so it’s best to contact the individual schools directly for detailed schedules.
Why Consider Living in Old Lyme?
If you’re considering a move, Old Lyme offers more than just a strong school district. Imagine living in a community where education is a priority, and children are supported to reach their full potential as scholars, artists, and athletes. The town’s commitment to quality education means your child will have access to excellent academic programs, award-winning extracurricular activities, and a nurturing environment that encourages growth and character development.
Old Lyme itself is a place where community matters. With a vibrant local culture, easy access to Connecticut’s shoreline, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a town that balances small-town charm with the resources of a well-established school district. Whether you’re raising a family or seeking a supportive environment for your children’s education, Old Lyme and Regional School District 18 provides a compelling package.
Regional School District 18: A Hub for Educational Success
Regional School District 18 in Old Lyme, Connecticut, stands out as a district dedicated to fostering academic achievement, personal growth, and community involvement. From its well-structured schools and innovative programs to its award-winning athletics and arts, the district offers a rich educational experience.
With a focus on inclusion and continuous improvement, it prepares students not just for college but for life beyond the classroom. Living in Old Lyme means being part of a community that values education and supports its young learners every step of the way.
Source: region18.org
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