Barrington School officials are considering a construction plan that would reduce the number of elementary schools in the district — moving from four schools to three. 

The plan — titled “Option 5” — would close Hampden Meadows School and turn Primrose Hill, Sowams and Nayatt schools into PreK to 5 schools. 

Officials said that shift would reduce the number of building transitions for Barrington students, which offers plenty of benefits, said Barrington Superintendent of Schools Michael Messore. 

“Fewer transitions allow for a more consistent learning and social environment,” Messore said. “We have found for some students that multiple school transitions are socially challenging and stressful, as students may need to continuously establish new friends and adult connections.

“A consistent school environment can provide a sense of security and predictability for a number of years, which can be particularly important for students with anxiety or other emotional needs.”

Messore said that staying in school from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade could allow students to build stronger relationships with teachers, counselors or other support staff who would better understand their needs and can provide more consistent assistance and support. 

“Students also receive a more consistent curriculum from year to year which provides for more constant learning through a more collaborative teaching and learning environment,” Messore said. 

“Also, at the elementary level, parents can become more engaged in their child's education and be more consistently involved in one building for a longer period of time.”

Currently, Barrington its entire prekindergarten program located at Primrose Hill School. But “Option 5” calls for the pre-kindergarten program top be featured at three elementary schools — Primrose Hill, Nayatt and Sowams. 

Messore was asked if spreading out the PreK program at three schools would result in hiring additional staff. The Superintendent said it would be better to wait and see what the future holds before commenting on staffing. 

Messore said it was also important to remember that Barrington students at every grade level already receive high-quality instruction. 

He added: “We have to look at additional space as a way to further enhance the learning opportunities that can take place in the classroom. New classrooms would be equipped with up-to-date technology that will support innovative teaching methods. More space allows for flexible learning spaces and furniture that allows teachers to incorporate various teaching methods and strategies, including collaborative grouping, hands-on creative activities, and space for independent work. In a comfortable work environment.”