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Jennifer Gonzalez

Dear SPS Community: 

On Tuesday night, Chief Academic Officer Amy Beldotti and Director of Special Education and Related Services Meghan Osowiecki presented to the Board of Education regarding proposed changes to the Special Education and Related Services Program for 2025-26. These proposed changes are designed to ensure that special education teachers have equitable student caseloads and that they receive regular coaching and instructional support to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. These changes do not impact IEPs, class sizes in our specialized programs, or the employment status of current special education teachers. 

Mrs. Beldotti and Mrs. Osowiecki also shared details about the new Bridge K program that will be in five  schools next year as well as an update on our partnership with C.E.S. that will add six special education classrooms at Toquam. The C.E.S. partnership will employ six SPS teachers and 24 SPS paraeducators,  and will enable up to 36 students with severe disabilities to remain in-district. Click here to view the presentation. 

TOR Presents Matilda, Jr. Friday and Saturday

Students at Turn of River Middle School will present Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical Jr. tonight at 6:30 pm and again on Saturday at 12 pm. Tickets are $15 for students and $20 for adults. The musical, which is based on the beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl, features 70 TOR students in the cast and crew. Thank you to TOR staff members Dawn Greco, Lauren Palmer, Lori Ann Garst, and AnnaMaria Gamberdella for dedicating their time and energy to this production. 

Mobile Food Pantry Returns to Stamford on Saturday

The Filling in the Blanks Mobile Food Pantry returns to Stamford tomorrow, Saturday, May 17. The Food Pantry will be set up in the Cloonan Middle School parking lot along Powell Avenue between W. North and Ivy Streets. If you or someone you know could benefit from the food pantry, please plan to attend between 8:30 and 10:30 am. 

SPS Musicians to March in Memorial Day Parade on Sunday

We hope you can join us for the Memorial Day Parade this Sunday, May 18 at 12 pm in downtown Stamford! Student musicians from Cloonan, Davenport, Dolan, Hart, Newfield, Rippowam, Scofield, Stamford High, Stillmeadow, Strawberry Hill, Turn of River, Westhill, and Westover will be marching in the parade, which begins at the Stamford Police Station and ends at Veterans Memorial Park. There will be a ceremony immediately following the parade to honor members of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives in service to our country. 

Stamford Cradle to Career Early Childhood Fair is Saturday 

Join Stamford Cradle to Career (SC2C) and other community partners for the 2025 Early Childhood Fair tomorrow—Saturday, May 17—from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Mill River Park. The Early Childhood Fair is a morning of fun for youngsters with face painting, story time, arts and crafts, games, and more! While the kids play, parents can explore early childhood programs and family resources in our community. In addition, the Stamford Public Education Foundation (SPEF) will be there giving away children’s books as part of their Books Across Stamford program. Thank you SC2C and SPEF for your work supporting our community’s youngest learners! 

Thank you, Speech-Language Pathologists!  

Sunday, May 18 is National Speech Pathologist Day. This is a day to recognize our education professionals who specialize in the treatment of communication, cognitive-communication, voice, and swallowing disorders. On behalf of everyone at Stamford Public Schools, thank you to our 45 dedicated speech–language pathologists who help students communicate more effectively!

Lunch Program Advisory Meetings

Chartwells, which operates the SPS school meals program, is hosting advisory meetings during which families can ask questions and share feedback about the school meals program.  

The meetings are on Thursday, May 22. Families may join the meetings via Zoom (Webinar ID: 83991486277) as follows:  

  • 5:30 pm: Elementary and K-8 
  • 6 pm: Middle Schools 
  • 6:30 pm: High Schools 

We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to share your feedback. 

Stay Safe and Healthy!

 

Dr. Tamu Lucero
Superintendent of Schools

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Creole

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Jennifer Gonzalez

Westhill’s JROTC Participates in the Army JROTC National Fitness Challenge!

The Westhill JROTC fitness team recently showcased their strength, endurance, and teamwork at the prestigious Army JROTC National Fitness Challenge in Daytona Beach, Florida. This highly competitive event brought together 78 elite teams from a pool of 1,700 JROTC programs nationwide, highlighting the best of the best in physical fitness and discipline.

 

Westhill entered the competition with two teams, representing both the male and female divisions. Each team faced rigorous challenges designed to test their agility, strength, and overall fitness. The competition featured a variety of demanding events, including obstacle courses, team runs, pull-ups, and other physically grueling tasks that required exceptional coordination and determination.

 

Despite the intense competition, Westhill’s teams proved to be formidable contenders, demonstrating remarkable athleticism and resilience throughout the event. Their performance reflected the dedication and hard work of the cadets, as well as the strong leadership and training provided by their instructors.

 

Westhill’s cadets left Daytona Beach with valuable experience and a sense of accomplishment, proving that they are among the nation’s top JROTC fitness teams. Their dedication and competitive spirit continue to inspire their peers and set a high standard for future competitions.

Westhill's female division at the JROTC National Fitness Challenge

Westhill's male division at the JROTC National Fitness Challenge

Submitted by Michael Rinaldi

 

A First Grade Celebration Full of Love!

A big shout out to our amazing first grade teachers and students for hosting a beautiful and heartfelt celebration for mothers and female caregivers on Friday, May 9. Families were welcomed into the classrooms and treated to delicious snacks, sweet songs, and thoughtful student-made gifts including flower pots, placemats, and bookmarks. The performance of “Mom” by Meghan Trainor was a definite highlight, bringing smiles (and a few happy tears!) to the room. Some students even read books to their moms, making the event feel extra special. Thank you to our first grade team for creating such a warm and memorable experience that families will cherish!

Mother and child at Roxbury's Mother's Day CelebrationMother and child at Roxbury's Mother's Day CelebrationMother and child at Roxbury's Mother's Day Celebration

 

Celebrating a Young Author’s Success!

Congratulations to Priya Powell, fourth grade student from Roxbury, for her outstanding achievement in the 40th Annual Stamford Literary Competition! We are thrilled to share that Priya won 2nd place in the Fourth Grade Poetry category for her poem Summer and 3rd place in the Fourth Grade Fiction category for her story The Library Dog.

 

What an incredible accomplishment! Priya’s creativity and talent shine brightly, and we are so proud of her success. Way to go, Priya! Keep writing and inspiring others with your words!

Priya of Roxbury at the 40th Annual Stamford Literary Competition Award Ceremony

Submitted by Sandra Ehlers

 

Author’s Visit

Rob Buyea, an American children’s fiction author best known for his Mr. Terupt series of novels, visited our school and engaged our students in a series of writing workshops and meaningful dialogue about the writing process and reading engagement. A big shout out to Abby Curry for organizing the event to enable our students an authentic learning experience. 

Rob Buyea at StarkRob Buyea with students at Stark

 

 

Fifth Grade Student Leadership 

During the month of May, our fifth grade students showed amazing leadership skills in different ways. They welcomed Assistant Principals and other leaders from the district with big smiles and friendly attitudes. Additionally, they took on the job of presenting to the fourth graders about their exciting trips. They shared stories and information, helping their younger friends understand what they could look forward to in the next grade. This experience allowed the fifth graders to practice speaking in front of others and to support their classmates. Overall, May was a great month for our students to shine as leaders, showing that they can inspire and guide those around them. 

Fifth grade student leaders from StarkFifth grade student leaders from StarkFifth grade students presenting to their younger peers

 

Student Celebrations

This week, students had a great time enjoying some of the fun prizes they won during the Stark Sprint Fundraising event, organized by the PFO in partnership with local community organizations. One of the most exciting highlights was when the police and fire departments escorted students to school, accompanied by the cheers and applause from both students and staff. Everyone came together to celebrate our school community, making it a memorable week filled with joy and support from all around us.

Stark community with the Stamford Fire DeptStark community with the Stamford Police DeptStark community with the Stamford Fire Dept

 

Literacy Night  

Stark Literacy Night was a big success! Students and families came together for a fun evening filled with exciting literacy activities. Many families enjoyed reading books together. There were also fun word search games that challenged everyone to find hidden words. Parents appreciated the chance to bond with their kids over reading and literacy activities. Thank you to our dedicated staff that organized and coordinated this event, Sarah Santasiero, Courtney Simon, Sue Connor, Maritza Nunez, Michael Macchio, and our security guard William Smith. 

Literacy Night at StarkFamily engaged in Literacy Night

Submitted by Iuliana Roata

 

AITE Arbor Students Hold Another Successful Succulent Sale

Students in AITE’s Arbor program raised over $400 for Project Pisces by selling succulents during their 3rd Annual Mother’s Day Succulent Sale. What they did not sell at AITE, they were able to at Just a Peace Gift Shop over the weekend. Through this event, the students learned about good business practices, including teamwork, customer relations, and value pricing. 

AITE Arbor students at Just a Peace selling succulents

Submitted by Tina Rivera


Toquam Spelling Bee Had Our Scholars “Buzzing!” 

Toquam’s second Annual Spelling Bee was a fantastic opportunity for our scholars in second through fifth grade to practice their spelling and public speaking skills, and gain confidence! Our 3 winners showed great sportsmanship and incredible spelling skills! We are proud of all our spelling bee finalists! Way to go! 

Toquam Spelling BeeToquam Spelling BeeToquam Spelling Bee

Submitted by Jenna Cinelli

 

From Prickly to Powerful!

“Trying new things can be uncomfortable and ‘prickly’ but there is a certain beauty in pushing through that discomfort.”

 

Students at Springdale Elementary School took part in the “Let Grow” program, a program that empowers schools and families to foster independence in children by encouraging age-appropriate freedom, responsibility, and problem-solving through unstructured play and real-world experiences. 

 

Students were challenged to try something new on their own (anything from trying to ride their bike without training wheels to making a meal or dessert for their family) and reflect on the impact that this experience had on them. Parents were encouraged to share how it made them feel to watch their children becoming more independent right before their eyes. One parent shared, “Watching him “Let Grow” made me anxious but also proud of him and excited for him.” The entire Springdale community shares in this sentiment and celebrates the JOY of independence that this program has brought to our students.

A "Let Grow" display of prickly cacti in a desert at Springdale

 

Celebrating JOY

At Springdale School, JOY is more than just a word...it’s our guiding principle, and we seize every opportunity to celebrate it! Thanks to our incredible PTO, students were treated to a “JOYful Monday,” a day dedicated to honoring our community, our connections, and most importantly, the JOY of being together.

 

Our blacktop was transformed into a vibrant carnival midway, where students could play to their hearts’ content...knocking down clowns, kicking bullseyes on a towering 15-foot soccer target, shooting baskets, and even aiming rings at a unicorn’s horn! The laughter, energy, and smiles were infectious.

 

To top off this unforgettable day, students also enjoyed special time with their book buddies, enjoyed a sweet ice cream treat, and were introduced to our brand new school mascot (who the students will get to name in the next few weeks). It was a true celebration of everything that brings us joy at Springdale!  Special thanks to the PTO for providing this opportunity and to all of the teachers who helped to make sure that the students not only had fun, but were safe throughout the day.

Springdale's new mascot with a studentInflatable Carnival Games at SpringdaleSpringdale students in front of the 15-foot soccer target

Submitted by Becky Chuhta

 

Planting Flowers at the Firehouse

Students from Stamford Transition Services did a community trip to the firehouse to help plant flowers! The students did a great job working with the firefighters to help spread spring cheer to the community! Thank you to Laura Marino for getting this community experience organized and thank you to Mr. Jon Panzer for stopping by to help! 

STS students with the Stamford Fire DeptSTS students planting flowersPlanted flowers at the Stamford Firehouse

Submitted by Steven Angelo

Westover Finds A Golden Ticket to Wonka’s Chocolate Factory

Westover families packed the auditorium on Thursday, May 15 for the Fifth Grade’s rendition of “Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.” The show tells the story of five golden ticket winners who earn a tour of Wonka’s Chocolate Factory and endless candy. Charlie, who finds the last golden ticket, embarks on an adventure inside the wondrous factory, filled with fantastical treats and singing Oompa Loompas. While the other winners face comical consequences for their greed, Charlie’s genuine kindness shines through earning him an even sweeter reward.

 

Westover students enjoyed watching the dress rehearsal performances this week. The students worked for months with their respective Arts & Problem Solving (APS) teachers putting together the show: art backdrops/props (Cathy McElroy), theater technology (Sean Hutchinson), dancers and gymnasts (Amy Neer), singers (Jennifer Macklin), and actors (Cienna Johnson). A huge thank you to Jennifer Macklin and Cienna Johnson, the Directors, for all of their time perfecting the showcase. Special shout out to the fifth grade teachers (Adriana DeCarlo, Stephanie Borgella, Jacqueline Sanchez, Gabrielle Rago, Heather Stramandinoli, and Amanda Bogdanowicz) and paraeducators (Anu Sharma, Rebeka Shohon, and Kayla Burgos) who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. We appreciate the time our costume parent volunteers put in to make the production possible.

Westover's fifth grade production of Wonka's Chocolate FactoryWestover's fifth grade production of Wonka's Chocolate FactoryWestover's fifth grade production of Wonka's Chocolate Factory

Submitted by Larissa Weir

 

What is an SPS Shout Out?

An SPS Shout Out is a special recognition that acknowledges school communities, staff members or students who have inspired us with a unique project, an outstanding job or a special effort that had a positive impact on our students or community.  Each week we will celebrate a few by sharing with all SPS staff and posting on the district website. Please share any or all of these with your friends and families.   

SPS Administrators can submit Shout Outs for consideration through the link available in the Administrator Weekly. Please note the deadline, word limit, and photo limit. We look forward to seeing your submissions!

 

matildathemusical
Kim Kempton

Stamford’s streets will be filled by the smell of rebellion when Turn of River Middle School presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. Based on the beloved book “Matilda” by Roald Dahl and adapted from the award-winning full-length musical, Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Turn of River presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. on Friday, May 16 at 6:30 and Saturday, May 17 at noon.

Tickets are $15.00 for students and $20.OO for adults.

For more information: Toronline.org.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR. is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International.

matildathemusical

 

AITEStudentDarwinAnariba
Kim Kempton


Earlier today student's at Stamford's Academy of Information Technology & Engineering attended a meet and greet and award ceremony, featuring Norm Goldstein, CEO of EduNetwork Partners, representing HIT Promotional Products. AITE Senior, Darwin Anariba, innovative design "The Table Bag" was selected as a finalist in the National School Gear Swag Design Challenge sponsored by Hit Promotional Products/EduNetwork Partners.

In December, AITE entrepreneur teacher, Florina Merturi, used the Swag Gear Design Challenge as a real-world design challenge -- to create a better backpack, multi-purpose lunchbox, or cross-body bag. Students conducted market research, made detailed changes to their ideas, and designed the prototype of their creation. Following the award, Darwin will participate in an upcoming Hit Promotional Products Think Tank with the other finalists.

School Gear Swag Design Challenge1


Norm Goldstein, CEO of EduNetwork Partners poses with AITE entrepreneur teacher, Florina Merturi
 

AITEStudentDarwinAnariba


Norm Goldstein, CEO of EduNetwork Partners poses with design finalist, Darwin Anariba, AITE Senior

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Jennifer Gonzalez

Roxbury Students Enjoy Final ECHO of the Year

On Friday, May 2, Roxbury celebrated the final ECHO of the school year—and what a fantastic way to wrap up this enriching experience for our students! From Roxbury Restorations, RoxTV, Kindness Kids and beyond, our students were engaged in meaningful, hands-on learning driven by their curiosity and passions. A huge thank you to all of the staff who made this possible. Their creativity, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond provided our students with unique opportunities to explore, create, and collaborate. The success of ECHO is a direct result of their commitment, and we are so grateful for the impact they have made!

Roxbury students engaged in their last ECHO activity of the yearRocks painted by students

Muffins with Mom – A Heartwarming Kindergarten Celebration!

A big shout out to our incredible Kindergarten team for organizing a truly lovely Muffins with Mom event! The room was filled with smiles, laughter, and a few happy tears as students shared muffins with their special guests and proudly gifted framed pictures of themselves. The highlight of the morning was a touching video featuring each student sharing why they love their mom—an unforgettable tribute that warmed every heart in the room. Thank you for creating such a meaningful and memorable experience for our students and their families!

Muffins with Mom Event at RoxburyRoxbury community enjoying Muffins with Mom

Muffins with Mom Event at Roxbury

Honoring the Earth Through Song

Our second graders truly shined during their Earth Day Concert! Their performance was both entertaining and educational, as they shared important messages about taking care of our planet through music and song. Their energy, enthusiasm, and hard work were evident in every moment on stage!

A huge thank you to our incredible music department, Paul Riccio and Sara Defilippo, for preparing our students so beautifully, and to our amazing second grade team — Jen Bruno, Kristyn O’Brien, Christina Parra, Consuelo Nieves, Julie Rizzi, and Kris Bastias — for their support and collaboration.

We also want to give a special shoutout to Dania Corsello for the beautiful artwork that helped transform our auditorium into a true celebration of Earth Day. We are so proud of our students and grateful to everyone who made this event such a success!

Roxbury second graders performing in their Earth Day concertRoxbury second graders performing in their Earth Day concert

“Hands-On Learning in Full Bloom!”

As part of Roxbury’s commitment to the Higher Order Thinking Schools, each teacher is in charge of a monthly “Echo” program. Roxbury teacher Morgan Walton partnered with Emily Picard at the 4-H Extension at UConn to give the students in the “Spice of Life Echos” program hand-on activities. This week they studied pollinators and made seed balls to take home.

Roxbury students engaged in an ECHO activityRoxbury students engaged in an ECHO activity

Submitted by Sandra Ehlers

Planting the Future: A Blooming Thanks to Our PTO Volunteers!

Thanks to the helping hands and generous hearts of our amazing PTO volunteers, Davenport Ridge Elementary students rolled up their sleeves and planted tulip and daffodil bulbs around the school grounds. These vibrant blooms will return each spring—reminding us all of the beauty that grows when our community comes together. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make our campus a little brighter, year after year!

Davenport students with flower bulbsPatch of flowers on Davenport school grounds Davenport student planting tulip bulbs

Pitch Perfect at the Ballpark!

Davenport Ridge Chorus Hits a Home Run at Citi Field!

On May 1, our talented fourth and fifth grade chorus took the big stage—well, the big field—at Citi Field, proudly singing the National Anthem before the New York Mets game! With voices strong and spirits high, they represented Davenport Ridge with pride, filling the stadium with patriotism and joy. What an unforgettable experience for our young stars—way to go, chorus! Thank you to Mr. Frank Merendino and Mr. Brandon Oberkrieser for your musical direction.

Davenport students at the Mets GameDavenport students on the Jumbotron at Citi Field

Submitted by Sandra Carlton

Fifth Grader Represents Region at National Kendo Championship 

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Toquam fifth grader, Luan Rrustemi, who recently participated in the 2025 All U.S. Kendo Federation Junior Open National Championships held in Seattle, WA!

Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art rooted in traditional swordsmanship, and demands discipline, focus, and spirit. Luan has been training with unwavering intensity, honing his skills with the bamboo sword (shinai) and protective armor (bōgu)—a dedication that earned him the honor of representing the All Eastern U.S. Kendo Federation at the national championships.

Even in the face of fierce competition, Luan walked away not only with rewarding experience but with the wisdom that there is always more to learn and more to strive for—not just as a “kenshi,” but as a driven and resilient individual. 

We are so proud of Luan for showing us what it means to believe in yourself and to never let anything stand in the way of achieving your goals. Keep pushing, Luan—the best is yet to come! Believe-Achieve-Succeed!

Luan Rrustemi in his Kendo protective armorLuan engaged in the martial art Kendo at Nationals

Submitted by Jenna Cinelli

Scofield Student Places Second at Scrabble Championship

On April 26-27, Scofield eighth grader Theodore Diamond and his teammate Tobey Lieberman of Ridgefield competed in the 34th Annual North American School Scrabble Championship (NASSC) at Planet Word Museum in Washington D.C. NASSC has nearly 100 students from across the USA & Canada. Theo and Tobey made it to finals with a 7-1 record, finishing second in the Elementary/Middle School Division. Congratulations, Theo!

Scofield Magnet Middle School Hosts Multicultural Day

Last week, our sixth grade Turquoise Team students and their families hosted a “Multicultural Day” event in the school cafeteria with their team teachers Mr. Forde, Mr. Fallon, Mrs. Schlosser, Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. Gordon. Students made presentation boards about their heritage and culture and shared over 100 authentic foods from these countries. There were many countries represented including Italy, Ireland, Greece, Peru, Ukraine, Guatemala, India, Bangladesh, Brazil, Albania, the Dominican Republic, and more! Excellent job, Turquoise Team!

Italian family at Scofield's Multicultural DayIndian and Brazilian students at Scofield's Multicultural DayPeruvian family at Scofield's Multicultural Day

Submitted by Julie Moyer

Luck Mom” and “In A HeartBeat” CPR Training

 We would like to thank Melissa Faye (Lucky Mom) and Mike Papale (In A HeartBeat) for providing CPR training to the Northeast Staff. They also organized a family/community evening event which allowed adults and students to receive CPR training. This CPR training for school staff, families, and students was crucial for enhancing school safety and empowered staff and families to respond effectively to emergencies, especially cardiac arrest.

Northeast students practicing CPRNortheast students practicing CPRNortheast community practicing CPR

Second Grade Plant Show

Mrs. Yantorno, Ms. Inzitari, Mrs. Sargent and Mrs. Kopec’s second grade classes learned about Cycles in Nature in their CKLA Unit. Students were introduced to natural cycles that make life on Earth possible, such as seasonal cycles, life cycles, and the water cycle. Students under the musical direction of Mr. Stec and Mr. Barbour showcased their learning with a Plant Show Performance dedicated to Earth Day.

Earth Day concert at NortheastEarth Day concert at Northeast

Submitted by Angela Plateroti

Newfield Students Honored at Literary Competition 

We are excited to celebrate two of our students who were honored on Sunday afternoon at the 40th Annual Literary Competition sponsored by the Friends of the Ferguson Library. Third grader, Charlotte Paone, placed 1st in the Fiction category. Fourth grader, Reilly Turano, placed 2nd in the Fiction category. They participated in the awards ceremony held at the Ferguson Library where they received recognition for their incredible work. We are so proud of these two students and their accomplishments!

Newfield student at Literary competition award ceremonyNewfield student at Literary competition award ceremony

Submitted by Mandi Leale

Westover Holds Choose Love Poster Contest and Celebrates SPS Teacher of the Year

Westover held its second annual Choose Love Poster contest to showcase the impact the SEL program has had on our school community this year. Students were given the opportunity to participate in the contest in class and also encouraged to work on it at home with their families during Spring Break. This year’s prompt was: What is your favorite Choose Love pillar and why? Submissions included drawings, posters, Google Slide Presentations, and even videos. Winners from each grade level were announced at the final Choose Love Assembly of the year on Wednesday, April 30. The winners loved being able to share their project with the school and take a special picture with mascot, Lizzy Love. 

Another highlight was the Westover Cheer Team who made their debut performance with a frogs chant and a special cheer about the Choose Love pillars. The assembly was the perfect time to honor SPS Teacher of the Year, George Rigakos, with a dance party. Mr. Rigakos (Westover SPED Teacher) lives out the Choose Love mission each day with his positive attitude and compassion for others. Westover is so lucky to have such an outstanding educator who builds genuine connections with students, staff, and families alike.

Westover Cheer Team performing for the first time at this Choose Love AssemblyStudent presenting their Choose Love Poster

George Rigakos with Choose Love mascot and other Westover faculty

Westover PTO Rocks Staff Appreciation Week

Westover’s Staff were treated to a rocking week by Westover’s amazing PTO. Monday began with a concert concession stand lunch, which included nachos, popcorn, hot dogs, and brownie sundaes. A rockstar worthy lunch catered by Avellino Family Barbecue and Westover Pizza was held on Tuesday. On Wednesday, staff received swag gift bags. Staff listened for their name on Thursday as incredible raffle prizes were announced throughout the day. Prizes included gift cards and many donations from local Stamford businesses. And the week ended on a high note with a delicious jam session on Friday morning complete with bagels, donuts, and an assortment of jams. Westover appreciates the time, creativity, and dedication of the PTO and all of the parent volunteers who made this week so special for the staff.

Westover PTO in charge of Teacher/Staff Appreciation WeekFood being served to Westover Staff and FacultyWestover PTO in charge of Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week

Submitted by Larissa Weir

TOR Celebrates Achievement 

Last Friday, our community came together to celebrate students for academic achievement, improvement, and citizenship. Family members, guests, students, and staff cheered as students received honor roll, high honor roll, BUG (Bringing Up Grades), and Titan awards. We also gave special recognition to two eighth graders:

Julia Claps: TOR Yearbook Editor-in-Chief (with Ms. Olivia Hagopian, Grade 7 Teacher)

Rudrh Nair: Ferguson Library Literary Competition winner (First place, Grade 7-8 Fiction, with Julia Sciarretta, Grade 8 Teacher)

We also honored human rights activist Judith Altmann, who spoke at TOR about her experiences as a Holocaust survivor for over ten years. Ms. Altmann passed away last week at the age of 100.

Eighth grade honor roll students at TORSeventh grade honor roll students at TORSixth grade honor roll students at TOR

Submitted by Mark Bonasera

Music Extravaganza at Stark Elementary 

The Stark Music Department, led by Gregory Herrmann, Graham Leftwich, and Brian Ditchella, along with their wonderful support staff, truly deserves a big round of applause for their hard work in preparing students in grades three through five for their Spring Concert and Sizzlin' Summer Sounds Performance. The teachers spend a lot of time helping the students learn new songs and play different instruments. During the performances, the audience could feel the joy and effort the students put into their music. The students not only learn about music, but they also learn how to work as a team and share their talents with others. The teachers spend a lot of time helping the students learn new songs and play different instruments.

Stark students performing for their community Stark students performing for their community

Stark students performing for their community

Submitted by Iuliana Roata

A Buddy Bench is Coming to RIS!

A Buddy Bench is coming to Rogers! It will officially be unveiled at the Shellebration on May 15. This special project, a symbol of friendship and inclusivity, was brought to life through a collaboration between Ms. Lacerenza’s second grade students and Mr. Foley’s MakerSpace students. Ms. Lacerenza was inspired to bring a Buddy Bench to Rogers after reading The Buddy Bench by Patty Brozo. To support this endeavor, Principal Cummings generously provided The Buddy Bench for each grade level to help students understand the bench’s purpose. 

The Buddy Bench represents our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all at Rogers. Students can sit on the bench to signal they need a friend. This bench promotes kindness and empathy on the playground and helps students problem-solve in social situations. Everyone in our school community was able to contribute to the project and leave their mark on the Buddy Bench by adding their fingerprint to the turtle collage on the bench’s seat. We could not be more excited for the Buddy Bench to enhance our schoolyard as a symbol of IB action!

New Buddy Bench at RogersArtists painting the Buddy Bench for Rogers

Submitted by Samantha Spielman

What is an SPS Shout Out?

An SPS Shout Out is a special recognition that acknowledges school communities, staff members or students who have inspired us with a unique project, an outstanding job or a special effort that had a positive impact on our students or community.  Each week we will celebrate a few by sharing with all SPS staff and posting on the district website. Please share any or all of these with your friends and families.   

SPS Administrators can submit Shout Outs for consideration through the link available in the Administrator Weekly. Please note the deadline, word limit, and photo limit. We look forward to seeing your submissions!

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