Region In Review

Unity Day is a special occasion in our elementary schools dedicated to fostering kindness, inclusion, and the power of unity. It’s a day when students, staff, and community members come together to promote anti-bullying efforts and celebrate a sense of belonging for everyone. Dressed in orange, the color symbolizing unity, our school community stands as one to send a strong message against bullying.

Activities throughout the day focus on building empathy, understanding, and respect for others. Through classroom discussions, collaborative projects, and assemblies, students learn about the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. These efforts help create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and understood.

Unity Day serves as an essential reminder that together, we can make a difference in the lives of each student by building a compassionate and united school community.

Shepaug College and Career Center has been busy with college visits and student engagement. So far this year, we’ve had representatives here from the following institutions:

University of Hartford, Pace University, Merrimack College, Bryant University, Mass College of Pharmacy, Salve Regina University, WCSU, ECSU, Iona University, Quinnipiac University, University of New England, Champlain University, University of Rhode Island, Worcester Polytechnic, University of Scranton, Wake Forest, Johnson and Wales, Endicott College, Massachusetts Maritime, University of Maine, College of Holy Cross, Dickinson College, St. Lawrence, University of New Haven, Roger Williams and Lafayette College.

The number of Shepaug students participating in these visits has been tremendous, and during the next four weeks, the following institutions will be here:

CCSU, Princeton University, University of Chicago, Savannah College of Art and Design, Lincoln Technical Institute, Hobart and William Smith, Lasell University, Towson University, UMass Dartmouth, Washington University St. Louis, Landmark College, Trinity of Dublin (virtual), Keene State College , Stony Brook University, Manhattan University, Springfield College, Seton Hall University, Bentley University, Saint Anselm College , Sacred Heart University, Plymouth State University, Fairfield University.

Additionally, seniors who are planning to enter the workforce are encouraged to visit the center to begin working on their resumes, cover letters and job applications. Connecticut manufacturing companies are increasing due to state incentives and state infrastructure support. Currently, Integrity Manufacturing (in Farmington) and Electric Boat (in Mystic) are hiring entry level production personnel. Both of these companies offer Insurance Benefits, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, 401K and Profit Sharing.

Shepaug is proud to announce that Rocco Smith has officially broken the Berkshire League Career Scoring record during the Spartan's recent match against Gilbert. In a thrilling moment captured in the accompanying photo, Rocco scored his remarkable 93rd career goal early in the first half, marking a significant milestone in his soccer career.

The Shepaug Astronomy Club will be hosting an Introduction to Telescope Making demonstration on Friday, November 8th, 7:00-8:00 p.m., at Shepaug Valley School, room E1. This event will feature presentations by guests from the Springfield Telescope Makers and the John J. McCarthy Observatory, who will demonstrate the techniques that are used to build a telescope and to hand-make a telescope mirror; they will also discuss the designs of modern space telescopes and mirrors.

The workshop will include a demonstration of the process of fabricating a telescope mirror by hand to obtain a very high degree of precision. The steps include grinding, polishing, and figuring the mirror surface to create an optically smooth concave parabolic surface. Through these techniques, which do not require the use of precision tools, it is possible to get a mirror whose focus is accurate to within ¼ of a wavelength (about 0.1 micrometers). It is a fascinating process, and worth learning about for students, parents, or anyone else interested in handcrafts, precision instruments, engineering or scientific measurement.

The Springfield Telescope Makers, from Springfield, VT, have been meeting for over 100 years, with a mission to stimulate interest in astronomy and other sciences by teaching the skill of amateur telescope making. They have been called ‘the birthplace of amateur astronomy.’ The Springfield Telescope Makers offers a Telescope Making Workshop each year which is open to the public; more information will be available at the event on November 8th.

Dick Parker will be demonstrating the mirror making process. He made his first telescope mirror in 1962, and started a mirror making workshop which has run continuously for 25 years. Hundreds of mirrors have been completed in this workshop. Dick has mentored in the making of Newtonian, Cassegrain and Gregorian reflecting telescopes, and refracting telescope lenses.

The John J. McCarthy Observatory is a world-class astronomical observatory located on the grounds of New Milford High School. The McCarthy Observatory is open to all: students, community groups, the general public, educators, and researchers on a volunteer basis with no charge for its use.

This event is open to students, parents, residents and families in Region 12, and surrounding communities. Recommended ages: 9 and up. This event is suitable for students and adults. If you are interested in attending, please respond to the google form by clicking this link. You can also email Friso Hermans at hermansf@region-12.org.

Shepaug alumni Katie Shusdock (Class of 2014) and John Shusdock (Class of 2010) were recently captured working on a telescope mirror in Springfield, Vermont. Katie is the instructor for the Springfield Telescope Makers' mirror-making class, a program that attracts astronomy enthusiasts from across the region.

The photo shows Katie and John working alongside George Springston, a fellow participant. The class offers hands-on experience in crafting telescope mirrors, an essential part of any stargazing setup.

Katie and John’s involvement illustrates their continued dedication to the field of astronomy. Their contributions reflect an advanced application of technical skills, facilitating knowledge exchange and hands-on learning within a specialized community. The intricate process of crafting telescope mirrors highlights the awe-inspiring nature of their work, opening new doors to explore the universe.

Shepaug Transitions students and SVP students took a lovely trip to Averill Farm this week. The Transitions students made some delicious apple crisp and loved sharing it with friends during lunch.

Shepaug Agriscience extends heartfelt thanks to Matt and Stacie Hoyt from Versatile K9, along with Brooke Dougan from Manchester, CT, for their engaging demonstration of K9 training in our Canine Grooming & Basics elective. Their presentation offered students invaluable insights into the world of canine training, showcasing the bond between handler and dog. Students not only learned about various training techniques but also experienced firsthand how these well-trained canines respond to commands and perform specific tasks.

The interactive session allowed students to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the different aspects of K9 training, including obedience, personal protection, and police dog training. Witnessing the dogs in action, students were inspired by the professionalism and expertise of the trainers. This hands-on experience not only enhanced their learning but also emphasized the vital role that well-trained dogs play in our communities. We are grateful for the continued support from our community, both near and far!

The Class of 2025 came together to paint The Rock, adding our colors and names to this cherished tradition. It’s a celebration of friendships and the exciting journey ahead as we make unforgettable memories this year!

Oct. 16-18 - Scholastic Book Fair, WPS, 12pm

Oct. 18 - Shepaug Homecoming Bonfire, SVS, 7pm

Oct. 19 - Shepaug Homecoming Games

Oct. 21 - BOE Agriscience Committee Meeting, SVS, 5pm

Oct. 23-25 - Parent/Teacher Conferences - Early Dismissal

Oct. 25 - Grades 7/8 Halloween Dance, SVS, 7pm

Oct. 26 - PTO's Halloween Spooky Trail, WPS, 4:30pm

Oct. 26 - Shepaug High School Homecoming Dance, 7pm

Oct. 28 - BOE Curriculum/Education Committee Meeting, SVS, 6pm

Oct. 28 - Board of Education Meeting, SVS, 7pm

Nov. 1 - No School - Professional Development Day

Nov. 4 - Shepaug PTO Meeting, SVS, 6pm

Nov. 4 - BOE Long Range Planning Committee Meeting, SVS, 6pm

Nov. 4 - Board of Education Meeting, SVS, 7pm

Nov. 5 - Election Day

Nov. 8 - Telescope Making Demonstration, SVS, 7pm

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day - No School

The Region 12 community educates, challenges, and inspires all learners to become compassionate, creative, and courageous individuals who are empowered by the knowledge, character, and perseverance to achieve their greatest potential within the global society.

Email: rir@region-12.org
Website: www.region-12.org
Location: 11A School Street, PO Box 386 Washington Depot, CT 06794
Phone: 860-868-6100
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Region12Schools

Instagram: www.instagram.com/region12schools