Abbot-Downing School

Abbot-Downing School, nestled in the south end of Concord, is more than just a school—it’s a vibrant neighborhood community. Built in 2012 by combining the elementary schools of Conant and Rumford, Abbot-Downing carries forward a legacy inspired by the historical Abbot-Downing Transportation Company and its iconic stagecoaches.  

This past year, Abbot-Downing School embraced its core values—the ABCs—through the Choose Love themes of Courage, Gratitude, Forgiveness, and Compassion in Action. 

• Courage: Students worked together with their “buddy” classrooms, encouraging each other to face challenges with bravery.

• Gratitude: Thankful notes, appreciating small moments, and celebrating achievements.

• Forgiveness: Students learned the power of letting go, healing hearts, and choosing love over resentment.

• Compassion in Action: Acts of kindness rippled through our halls, making Abbot-Downing a caring community.

Social Emotional Learning did come under scrutiny in the NH House, but thanks to several people and agencies, we rallied to save SEL in our schools. Highlighting the response was one of our very own 1st-grade students, along with staff, the Concord Police Community Officer, and Choose Love, testified against a proposed ban on social-emotional learning. Her powerful message reached national platforms, and she even spoke to politicians in Washington DC about the importance of SEL.

Our dedicated teachers unpacked core learning standards, ensuring that all students had access to Tier 1 instruction. We increased student achievement while fostering a love for learning. In the arts, we collaborated with the Central New Hampshire Bike Coalition, where they coordinated over $11,000 in donations for our “learn to ride” program. Kindergarten and 1st-grade students now learn how to ride bikes as part of their Physical Education curriculum.

Abbot-Downing students demonstrated leadership and lived our core values. Our ADS Student Union (Student Council) gained national recognition as one of the top 30 Student Councils recognized in the country by the National Association of Elementary School Principals . Their community projects gave back to ADS and the greater Concord area.

ADS proudly holds the Purple Star School designation, honoring our Military families. Throughout the year, we recognize their sacrifices during special events like Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Purple Up Day.

Thanks to our ADS PTO, community events strengthened our bonds: Color Run, Walk-a-thon, Storyteller sessions on Forgiveness, Earth & Arbor Day celebration, Veterans Day Parade, NH Forestry’s School Canopy Project, Concord High School’s Seniors returning for the annual Graduate Walk, Light Up the Night, Girls on the Run, Color Run, and Nature Explorers.

At Abbot-Downing, we are not just a school; we are a family—a Mustang family. Our hearts beat with curiosity, kindness, and the joy of learning. Together, we create a legacy that echoes far beyond our walls.

Should you have any questions or would like more information about Abbot-Downing School, please call (603)-225-0827.

Email Mr. Blinn, Principal

Email Dr. Vose, Assistant Principal