Utica Community Schools, in partnership with our community, will empower students to positively transform their future and the world.

Utica Community Schools ignites a passion for learning in all students. We strengthen our community by welcoming all learners, honoring culture, and inspiring remarkable growth and achievement.

We accomplish this by:

• Ensuring students are at the heart of all decisions
• Collaborating with all stakeholders
• Providing a safe and supportive environment
• Encouraging mindsets that are open to innovation
• Reimagining what school can be
• Promoting high expectations throughout Utica Community Schools
• Committing to multiple pathways toward excellence and achievement for all

We believe...

• All students can learn and achieve.
• All students can teach and learn from each other.
• All parents are partners in their children’s education.
• We will value individuality and diversity.
• We will maintain high expectations for all children to be responsible and caring students.
• All children need a safe and secure learning environment - both physical and emotional.
• We will help students become lifelong learners so they can adapt to a changing world.

The Community at Richard J. Duncan Elementary School is devoted to academic excellence. Sound instructional strategies will provide our students with a foundation of skills that will prepare them for lifelong achievement in a global society.