Submitted by Emily Judd and Dr. Emily Rhew

“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW.” - Chinese Proverb

To celebrate Arbor and Earth Day, elementary students engaged in a variety of learning experiences discovering the relationship between living things and the environment, as well as ways to protect and responsibly use our earth’s precious resources.

At Washington Primary School, students studied trees in our environment. During our annual Green Week activities, students learned how trees are the lungs of our world providing oxygen for living things in our environment. Students were surprised at all the products trees provide for us such as wood, paper and food as well as some unusual items like chewing gum, paint and cosmetics. Students learned about the effects of deforestation and how engaging in responsible practices can preserve our forests. Students read books, viewed videos, created artwork, learned how to measure the carbon stored in a tree, and figured out the age of a tree by counting tree rings and measuring the circumference of a tree. Some groups made paper, learned about forest fires, created a terrarium and learned how to be a responsible visitor in the forest with park rangers and an experienced hiker. Students were also intrigued as they learned how trees communicate with one another by sharing nutrients and danger messages through their root systems! To culminate, WPS participated in Team Trees through the Arbor Day Foundation and raised money to purchase 414 trees to be planted all around the world! We thank our staff, families and community members for sharing their talents, skills and knowledge with our students.

At Burnham School students were filled with excitement and enthusiasm to celebrate and honor Earth Day. Among the various activities and events organized, one standout highlight was the performance of "Marvelous Metamorphosis" by the Sova Theater group, thanks to the Bridgewater Land Trust and Julie Stuart.

The play, a mesmerizing tale of transformation and interacting with our environment. With its interactive elements, the performance not only entertained but also educated the audience about the importance of protecting our environment and fostering sustainability. Through colorful characters and engaging storytelling, the message of conservation and ecological harmony was conveyed.

Following the performance, the students participated in workshops conducted by members of the Sova theater group. These workshops offered hands-on activities and discussions aimed at deepening the understanding of environmental issues addressed in the play. From crafting pieces to exploring the wonders of nature through creative expression, the workshops provided valuable insights and practical skills for students to become proactive in taking care of the Earth.

At Booth Free School, students welcomed representatives from the Human Recycling Awareness Association (HRAA) and the Audubon Society for a day of environmental education. The event centered around the themes of reducing, reusing, and appreciating the ecosystems that surround us.

The HRAA kicked off the day with an engaging presentation on the importance of reducing consumption and waste. Through interactive activities and thought-provoking discussions, students learned about the environmental impact of their everyday choices and discovered practical ways to minimize their ecological footprint.

Following the HRAA's presentation, representatives from the Audubon Society captivated students with an exploration of local ecosystems. Through hands-on demonstrations and multimedia presentations, they learned about the delicate balance of these ecosystems and the threats they face from human activity.

But the day didn't end there - students put their newfound understanding into action by participating in a hands-on gardening activity. With guidance from staff, students planted seedlings in the school's tower garden, symbolizing their commitment to nurturing and preserving the natural world around them.

Providing on-going learning opportunities for our students to explore and learn about the synergy that exists between all living things and our environment, helps grow a greater awareness and commitment to responsible stewardship.

Shepaug Valley School's Natural Resources classes have embarked on an enriching new venture – beekeeping. With support from Ed Bahr of Mike’s Bees and assistance from George Lyman, our apiary welcomed three packs of bees into their new double-wide hive.

Students engaged in hive maintenance and explored pollination, learning how important a factor the process can be for environmental stewardship.

As we anticipate the forthcoming spring beekeeping unit, students continue to build a connection with nature. Our apiary symbolizes our commitment to the exploration and nurturing of our ecosystem.

On March 27th, the students and staff from Shepaug Valley Partnership volunteered their time and shared their floral decorating skills at Chestnut Grove, a retirement and senior housing facility in New Milford.

The seniors loved having the students and enjoyed interacting with them. Everyone had a great time and they are looking forward to our students returning. Volunteering is such a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Research shows that such community service cultivates a sense of civic responsibility. These experiences broaden perspectives and nurture a lifelong commitment to service and social responsibility among students.

Shepaug Valley School's Class of 2024 recently embarked on a memorable journey, exploring destinations filled with adventure. From the exhilarating rides at Six Flags to the historic charm of Medieval Times, students enjoyed each moment with their friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Shepaug Valley School's agriscience students recently demonstrated their culinary skills and community engagement by hosting a Senior Citizen Luncheon. From farm-to-table salads to homemade lasagna, the students meticulously prepared a variety of dishes for the event.

In addition to enjoying the delicious food, attendees had the opportunity to tour our agriscience program facilities. This allowed them to gain insight into the farm-to-table process and witness firsthand the students' culinary proficiency. Moreover, the talented Shepaug Jazz band performed at the luncheon, adding a musical ambiance to the event. We extend our sincere appreciation to all of the students involved for their hard work in making this luncheon a success.

Dear Community Members,

You're invited to Shepaug's Senior Project Showcase! Come witness the incredible work of our graduating seniors. For dates and times, please see below. We look forward to seeing you there!

During 2023, students from Shepaug’s Graphic Design and Computer Illustration classes were invited to work with Minor Memorial Library in Roxbury to design a logo for their new Walk of Celebration at the library. Projects like this provide design students with a ‘real world’ design experience, and can be used in their portfolios for both college / continuing education as well as future artistic and design efforts.

Final student designs were submitted to the library who then had them on public display, allowing the public to vote on their preferred logo. The chosen design, created by student Karmen Vance, is now the official logo of the Minor Memorial Library’s Walk of Celebration.

Logos were designed and created in industry standard software (Adobe Illustrator and / or Photoshop) and students took the time to understand the goals and focus of the Walk before creating their final designs.

by Diane Decker, College & Career Center Coordinator

The College and Career Center has been bustling with activity this spring semester, providing support to students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. As the Class of 2024 prepares to graduate, the center has been particularly focused on guiding seniors as they finalize their post-graduate plans, such as applying to Connecticut State Community College and crafting job resumes.

The semester kicked off with virtual college visits from the University of South Wales and the University of Glasgow, along with a field trip to Connecticut State Community College in Waterbury. During this trip, students had the opportunity to explore various programs offered by CSCC, including Nursing, Art, Business, Wedding Planning, Auto Mechanics, and Criminology. They also toured the Theater and Music Department and received a tutorial on Connecticut's PACT Funding Program (Pledge to Advance Connecticut), which offers free tuition to students taking two or more classes per semester.

In April, seniors and juniors were invited to an in-house presentation titled "Job Interview and Professionalism" by George Frantz of Quassy Amusement Park. Here, they learned about the P.A.I.D. concept for enhancing their job prospects: Purpose, Appearance, Introductions, and Demeanor.

Off-campus opportunities for the center's coordinator have also been fruitful in discovering additional resources for Shepaug students. For instance, attending the CT Learns and Works Breakfast Symposium provided insights such as Connecticut's unique initiative to bring more manufacturing companies to the state and achieve full employment in the manufacturing sector by 2030 through the Make It Here 2030 plan. The meeting also highlighted the significant presence of manufacturing firms in CT, with Electric Boat being the largest employer.

Another notable event was the REP (Regional Education Partnership) meeting at EdAdvance in Goshen, focusing on dual enrollment, career pathways, and work-based learning opportunities. Beth Dupont, O & G Industries HR Officer, provided insights into the construction industry and O&G’s Construction Academy. Additionally, EdAdvance will be piloting a program called LRON (Live Remote Instruction), where students may earn college credit for certain courses taken remotely at Shepaug.

Lastly, a select group of students will have the opportunity to join the 2024 Ct Manufacturing Careers Roadshow in Waterbury. This event aims to introduce students to the innovative and progressive manufacturing world of Connecticut, providing insights into cutting-edge technologies such as robotics, 3D printing, and AI integration.

Overall, the efforts of the Center continue to ensure that Shepaug students are well-equipped with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their academic futures.

Watch SVS High School Band, Jazz Band, and Chorus team up for an amazing performance from May 7.

May 16 - Band/Chorus Spring Concert, SVS, 6:30pm

May 20 - BOE Policy Committee Meeting, SVS, 6:30pm

May 20 - Board of Education Meeting (Student Recognitions), SVS, 7pm

May 21 - PTO Meeting WPS, 6:30

May 23 - Reich Award Assembly, SVS, 10:25am

May 23 - FFA Awards Banquet, SVS, 6pm

May 25 - Junior Prom - Amber Room, Danbury, 6pm

May 27 - Memorial Day - No School

May 29 - 8th Grade Academic Awards, SVS, 6pm

May 29 - High School Academic Awards, SVS, 7pm

May 30 - Middle School Play - The Hobbit, SVS, 7pm

May 31 - Athletic Awards Night, SVS, 7pm

June 3 - BOE Finance/Operations Committee Meeting, SVS, 4-630pm

June 3 - BOE Meeting, SVS, 7pm

June 4 - Keri Parent Meeting, WPS/Zoom, 6:30-7:30

June 5 - Aloha, Burnham School, 12pm

June 5 - Senior Scholarship Night, SVS, 7pm

June 8 - Shepaug Graduation, SVS. 10am

June 10 - Aloha, BFS, 12pm

June 10 - BOE Curriculum & Educational Programming Committee Meeting, SVS, 6pm

June 10 - SVS PTO Meeting, SVS, 6:30pm

June 10 - 8th Grade Dance, SVS, 7pm

June 12 - Aloha, WPS, 11am

June 13 - Early dismissal for students only

June 14 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal

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
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