As we head into November, our schools are fully immersed in our core mission, teaching and learning. Over the past five years, we have updated and implemented a number of resources: Fundations (K-2), Bridges Math (K-5), Into Math (6-8), EL Imagine Learning (K-5), Into Literature (6-8), updated textbooks for middle school science and world language, as well as AP Psych and Latin at NHS. During this same period of time, we have revamped curriculum across multiple departments at Newtown Middle and High Schools to ensure the delivery of rigorous and relevant instruction that is inclusive and offers students opportunities to consider multiple perspectives. As educators we believe that our students must have access to the same content and knowledge in order to ensure that all students have the same opportunity to learn. Equally important is that programs and curricula are delivered by our teachers using high-leverage teaching practices that excite and motivate our students to learn. Our principals recently presented their school strategic plans to our Board of Education and those plans contain the specific actions they will be implementing to ensure learning environments are optimized to meet our students’ needs. As we enter into the early stages of the school budget process for 2025-2026, I hope you will continue to read the NPS Weekly Update, engage with the Board of Education, either in person or via videos, as both exemplify all of the amazing work being done in our schools on a daily basis and are indicators of the work that lies ahead.
In the past two weeks, we have experienced issues with phones (potentially impacting 911 calls), internet, and even security cameras at our schools. While all of these instances were beyond our control, I understand how disconcerting this can be to parents and staff alike. However, what I’d like you to know is that in spite of these disruptions, our schools are prepared to keep our students and staff safe. First and foremost, all of our schools have radios that directly communicate with the Newtown Emergency Communications Center (dispatch). Our administrators and dispatch routinely practice communicating to prepare for the possibility of a true emergency. This is critical because it means we have the immediate ability to bypass phones, which can become unreliable for many reasons, and still request emergency assistance. All of our schools also have at least one available landline if needed in the event of an emergency. Finally, every administrator has a district-issued cell phone, including me, that is readily shared with staff and families to access when needed.
Our schools will be closed tomorrow, Election Day, but our teachers will be working, engaged in professional learning designed to elevate student learning. I want to commend our entire school community for keeping personal politics out of our schools throughout the lead-up to the presidential election. As I mentioned in the NPS Weekly Update on October 7th, there will be winners and losers following tomorrow’s election. And, of course recent history has shown that a definitive outcome may not necessarily be known on November 6th. Regardless of the situation we face on Wednesday, it is critical that each of us commit to maintaining the respectful behavior that has been shown in our schools to date. Regardless of differing opinions, our schools must remain focused on providing the best possible education for our youth.
Wishing you a peaceful evening,
Anne
