Superintendent's Newsletter

Dear Newtown Public Schools Community,

As we roll into March, it brings the anticipation of brighter days ahead. With the changing seasons, we are reminded of the beauty of transformation and the endless possibilities. I am confident that the month ahead will be filled with countless achievements, memorable experiences, and moments of inspiration.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to the success of our students and our schools. Together, let us make March a month to remember. Below please find highlights from February and find out what makes Newtown Public Schools great!

Sincerely,

Chris Melillo

On January 31st, Reed Intermediate School hosted a transformative Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Forum, an event that highlighted the collaborative spirit and commitment to student well-being within Newtown Public Schools. The forum, hosted by dedicated school leaders, including Kathy Gombos, Chris Moretti, Tim Napolitano, Chris Geisler, Matt Correia, Jenna Connors, Jim Ross, Brian Walsh, and Kim Longobucco, served as a platform for knowledge dissemination and community engagement. Their collective efforts significantly enriched the presentation, fostering an environment where attendees could not only learn but also actively participate and contribute. Through interactive discussions and insightful presentations, the forum emphasized the importance of social and emotional well-being in nurturing resilient, empathetic individuals. It underscored Newtown Public Schools' unwavering commitment to holistic education, ensuring that every student feels supported and valued. Please see the presentation below for further insights into this invaluable event.

Be Your Best at SHS! Sandy Hook School continues to focus on the power of personal connections, understanding others, and celebrating how we are all special. This is the foundation of all the work we do. We are excited to highlight our priorities throughout the year in each of our classrooms, through our community building practices and our direct instruction. Currently, we have a few unique activities in the works; we have partnered with a group of high school students to be readers in our classrooms, and their focus will be Women in History. Next month our 2nd grade will be visited by Piglet the Puppy. Piglet is an adorable, determined little puppy who is teaching adults and students about acceptance and the power of positivity. We are excited to be planning our Shares Day for April. This is a day when adults share something that they love to do with students. The projects are often based on tradition and students get to choose what they are interested in. Dr. Gombos has enjoyed working with students in grades 2-4 on “What it means to be respectful?” She has focused on the idea that being a respectful person is not always about how you feel about someone, it is more about who you are and how you represent yourself. The older students will be creating lessons to teach to the younger students, who better to be role models?

During Black History Month, Newtown Middle School's 7-Red students embarked on an exploration of the Harlem Renaissance, a pivotal period in African American history marked by artistic and intellectual flourishing. On February 9th, the culmination of their study took form in a self-guided exhibit, showcasing the vibrant writing, art, music, and culture of this transformative era. Students brought to life the voices and experiences of Harlem Renaissance luminaries such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington. Through engaging displays and interactive presentations, visitors were immersed in the spirit that defined the Harlem Renaissance, gaining a deeper appreciation for its enduring impact on American society.

Congratulations to Emily Metzker, Grace Fischer, Tanner Mapes, and Hope Kenney for their remarkable achievement in being awarded the Newtown Rotary Club Students of the Month Award! This prestigious recognition is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and exemplary character. Their commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and community service shines brightly, inspiring others and making a positive impact in our school and community. We are immensely proud of their efforts and the positive representation they bring to our educational community.