The Pelham School District is 230 years old. It originally was comprised of five schools, one for each segment of town, which were built and maintained by residents in each section. A wonderful history of the Pelham schools is contained in Reflections- A Pictorial History of Pelham, New Hampshire, 1746-1996.Today, Pelham schools look quite different. There are currently three schools in Pelham. With nearly 2100 students, Pelham is a school district that continues to grow each year, as families are attracted to beautiful southern New Hampshire and its sense of community.

Pelham Elementary School was opened in 2002 replacing Sherburne Elementary School. This school is home to more than 900 students in grades one through five and it is the showplace of the Pelham schools. It is light, airy and well designed for community use. Together with supportive parents and community leaders, elementary students enjoy a wonderful arts, music and physical education curriculum in addition to an outstanding academic program.

Pelham Memorial School, currently the oldest school, was built in 1965 and provides educational services to over 500 children in grades 6-8. It is at Pelham Memorial School that students become more involved in music programs and well-developed athletic programs. Students are introduced to foreign language, and other academic opportunities. Pelham High School, built in 1974, serves more than 650 students in grades 9-12. Pelham High School is home to the award winning Pythons and Pelham Pride. A visit to the school’s gymnasium and the main hallway reflects more than 100 banners and awards that have been awarded to this fine school. Students who are interested in vocational programs have the opportunity to take some of their coursework at Salem High School, Pinkerton Academy and Alvirne High School beginning in the junior year. Over the past few years, more than 82% of Pelham High students chose to enter an institution of higher learning. The drop out rate remains one of the lowest in the state of New Hampshire. The community is proud of the accomplishments of our students.

The Pelham District Schools are an integral part of the community of Pelham. The schools host town elections, Community Night, dinners for senior citizens, Bicycle Safety Day as well as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Little League and Pelham Recreation leagues and activities.

The mission of the Pelham School District is clearly stated: Our mission is a commitment in concert with the entire Pelham community, to provide quality services to each student, parent and resident through planned, focused and continuous improvement of our education programs and practices. To this end, the school board has two major goals for 2005-06: (1) To complete a Master Facilities Plan by January 2006 and (2) To prepare a solution to the high school facility for the March 2006 warrant.

The Pelham School Board welcomes your comments and opinions. Contact information is available at www.pelhamweb.com or the SAU #28 office at 425-1976.