Our School

Small but powerful, Otto-Eldred Elementary School is a place where your child will gain a strong academic foundation and build good character along the way. With approximately 360 students from kindergarten through 6th grade and only 20 students in our average classroom, we take pride in the fact that students can receive the one-on-one attention each needs from his or her teacher.

If you ever have questions for us or would like to tour our campus, don’t hesitate to contact us or pay us a visit.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Here at Otto-Eldred, technology is integrated into every classroom. Kindergarteners regularly use iPads to develop literacy skills. Our district was a finalist for a KTO Innovation Award. We are continuously updating our curriculum to meet the quickly advancing needs of today’s students.

A Message from Our Principal

Welcome to Otto-Eldred Elementary School!

It is my privilege to serve as the elementary principal and to be part of a school community that cares deeply about children and their success. At Otto-Eldred Elementary School (OEES), we believe that every student has unique strengths, talents, and potential, and our responsibility is to help each child discover those strengths and grow into a confident, capable learner.

We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where students feel valued, respected, and encouraged to take risks in their learning. Our dedicated staff works together to provide engaging, meaningful learning experiences while helping students develop not only academically, but also socially, emotionally, and as individuals of good character.

We also believe that strong schools are built on strong partnerships. Our families are an important part of the OEES community, and we value open communication, collaboration, and shared commitment to our students. When schools and families work together, children are given the support they need to thrive.

Most importantly, we want our students to come to school each day knowing that they belong, that their voices matter, and that there are adults who believe in them. We want them to leave our school with a strong foundation for learning, a sense of confidence in who they are, and the skills and character needed to navigate the world around them.

We are proud of our students, grateful for our families, and fortunate to have such a dedicated staff working together to make OEES a wonderful place for children to learn and grow.

Warmly,

Nichole M. Garthwaite

Mrs. Nichole Garthwaite
Elementary Principal
Otto-Eldred Elementary School

A Message from Our Administration

August 17, 2026

Welcome Back to School!

Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,

On behalf of the board of education and our entire school staff, I am delighted to welcome you back for another exciting school year. As summer comes to a close, we look forward to opening our doors and partnering with families to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment for every student.

The start of a new school year brings fresh opportunities for learning, growth, and achievement. It also brings several important updates that I would like to share with our school community.

Cell Phone/Electronic Device Update

This year, we will implement updated cell phone restrictions for students during the school day. Research and experience show that reducing distractions helps students remain engaged in their learning, build stronger relationships with peers and teachers, and improve academic outcomes. Similarly, ear-pod devices will not be permitted during the school day.

Our goal is not to eliminate technology but to ensure that personal devices do not interfere with instruction. We appreciate families working with us to support this effort as we create classrooms focused on learning and achievement.

Parents may call either building office 814-817-1380 to leave a message for their students or email students directly during the day. We also ask that parents update contact information regularly so that our School Messenger system calls and texts updated phone numbers.

Backpack Use Update

To enhance safety and improve movement throughout our buildings, the district has adopted new backpack restrictions. Students will be required to store backpacks or any bookbags in lockers during the day.

These measures are intended to create a safer and more secure learning environment while minimizing disruptions during the school day.

Student Independence and Resiliency

One of our district-wide priorities this year is helping students develop greater independence and stronger problem-solving skills.

While we will continue to support students every step of the way, we also want to encourage them to advocate for themselves, persevere through challenges, and take ownership of their learning. These life skills are essential not only for academic success but also for future careers and personal growth.

We encourage parents and guardians to partner with us by allowing students opportunities to solve age-appropriate problems, communicate directly with teachers when needed, and develop resilience when faced with challenges.

E-Bike Safety Reminder

As electric bicycles (e-bikes) become increasingly popular among students and families, we ask everyone to prioritize safety. Additionally, please be sure your family us current with state law regarding e-bike use, especially for students under 16 years of age.

E-bikes can travel at speeds much higher than traditional bicycles, creating additional concerns for riders, pedestrians, and motorists. Families should ensure that students understand traffic laws, wear appropriate safety gear, and operate e-bikes responsibly.

We also ask parents to review district transportation and parking expectations with their children before school begins. Student safety remains our highest priority. As always, student parking spaces at the high school are a privilege, we will continue to monitor student driving habits around the school and buses to ensure safe habits are developed.

Student Health Screening Updates

Parents should also be aware of a recent change in state law regarding student health information.

Under the new law, schools are restricted from collecting and maintaining student height and weight information for body mass index (BMI) reporting purposes as previously required. As a result, parents and guardians will only receive BMI information upon request.

Additional information regarding student health screenings will be provided by our school nurses and health services staff throughout the school year.

Looking Ahead

Our faculty and staff have spent the summer preparing for a successful school year, and we are eager to welcome students back into our classrooms. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Thank you for your continued support of our schools. We value the strong partnership between our families, staff, and community, and we look forward to a wonderful year ahead.

Best wishes for a successful school year,

Matthew D. Splain

Superintendent
Otto-Eldred School District