The Southwest School is the smallest elementary school in the Torrington School District. However, it is housed in one of the newest buildings, renovated in 2001. The school is a combination of architectural elegance from the early 1900s and modern, state of the art additions.

Southwest school has a warm, family atmosphere that is supported by the staff , students and their families. Over the years, teachers as well as the administration have focused their goals on improving parental involvement in school. We want parents involved in their student's education.

Objectives:

1. To promote a secure atmosphere, where students may understand themselves and realize both the privileges and obligations of an education.
2. To create a stimulating learning environment that meets the individual needs of students by incorporating varied experiences that address many learning styles and levels.
3. To provide students with basic skills, opportunities, and incentives to apply this accumulated knowledge to their lives.
4. To assist students in practicing effective communication, cooperative learning, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
5. To help students become well-rounded citizens by developing a positive self-concept, responsible behavior and respect for the family and society.
6. To develop the creative abilities and talents of students in the areas of the arts and physical fitness.
7. To provide for and encourage the continuing professional development of teachers as essential to their personal career growth.
8. To promote leadership and decision-making skills of teachers through the team management approach to the total operation of the school.
9. To promote learning as a life-long continuing process of self-development.

Philosophy:

We believe that all children have the right to a sound education. It is the mission of the Southwest School community to provide children with materials and experiences essential for learning and for growth as citizens of democracy.

We believe that students learn best in an atmosphere that is comfortable and secure, yet stimulating and rich in opportunities. We recognize the student as a unique individual, living, working and communicating in a school environment and in a complex society.

We believe that teachers must be professionals with highly trained understanding of the needs, interests and potential of young people. We believe that teachers model attitudes and values that children will find useful in their work and family life.

We believe that teachers must share with students both tried and innovative curricula and develop skills needed by responsible and fulfilled individuals.