East Shore Middle School

January 31, 2025  

Dear ESMS Families and Students, 

As I sit down to write this final message, I am filled with mixed emotions. For the past eight years, it has been my greatest honor to serve as the principal of East Shore Middle School. For 26 years, I have had the privilege of being an MPS educator, and every step of this journey has shaped me in profound ways. While this moment is bittersweet, I am also excited and eager to begin a new chapter as I transition into my role in a new district.

Reflecting on my time here, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the memories, growth, and connections we have built together. East Shore Middle School has always been more than just a school; it is a community and to me a second family. It is a place where incredible students, dedicated staff, and supportive families come together to create something truly special. I am confident that the strong foundation we have built will continue to thrive under the leadership of Interim Principal Lisa Swanson and our outstanding Assistant Principal, Mr. James Genova. Together with our talented teachers and staff, they will ensure our high expectations of excellence, care, and innovation remain steadfast.

To our students, you are the heart of this school. Your curiosity, determination, and kindness have inspired me every day. Continue to dream big, work hard, and support one another. You are capable of achieving amazing things, and I cannot wait to hear about all of your future successes.

To our families, thank you for your unwavering support and partnership. Your trust and collaboration have been integral to the success of our school, and I am deeply appreciative of the role you play in fostering a positive and enriching environment for our students. 

While I may be moving on to new opportunities, this is not a goodbye—it is a “see you later.” ESMS will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to staying connected with this incredible community. 

With heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for the future. 

Shannan 

MESSAGES FROM THE ESMS PTA: 

• Click here for this week’s PTA newsletter.

• Click here for the PTA meeting dates and membership form.

BRIDGES AT ESMS: We wanted to remind you of our collaboration with Bridges Healthcare, Inc to enhance the mental health support available to our students. Families are now able to get mental health support for their children through this school-based service. Please click here for additional information about this service along with contact information at ESMS.

YEARBOOKS: We're excited to announce that yearbooks are on sale! Please visit Lifetouch and use code 6667425 to purchase the 2024-2025 East Shore Yearbook. Yearbooks start at $24. Please contact Mrs. Donovan mdonovan@milforded.org or Mrs. Begin pbegin@milforded.org with any questions.

One of the best ways to stay connected and see what is happening in the classroom is through X (formerly Twitter), Instagram or FB. We try our best to capture as much of our kiddos as we can throughout the day. Please follow us! Click on the below icons to access ESMS Instagram (IG), FaceBook (FB), and X accounts:

If you have questions or concerns, please contact your child’s team leader and of course, always feel free to call or email me anytime at scarlson@milforded.org or Mr. Genova at jgenova@milforded.org, or by phone at  203-783-3559.

Thanks so much for your continued support. We want, need, and value your involvement, partnership, and support in your child’s education!  

Important Dates to Remember: 

February 5 - Early Release Day for Students 12:45

February 14 & 17 - No School Winter Break

February 26 - Early Release Day for Students 12:45

SAVE THE DATE: 

April 5- 2 pm and 6 pm - Beetlejuice Jr. The Musical will be performed at Joseph A. Foran High School