Superintendent's Corner

Dear Stratford Community Members:

It is my honor to accept the position of Interim Superintendent of Schools in Stratford. I believe that  my 40  years of experience as an educator  in Stratford  at the  elementary, middle, and  high school levels will be most assistive in moving our district  toward  our joint  mission  to develop  a community  of learners  in which ALL students acquire  the knowledge, skills and confidence to meet the challenges of a changing  and increasingly diverse 21st century society.

As a nation, community,  and school district, we mourn for the families of Newtown, CT. who have been affected by the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary  School.   I realize this tragedy  has  raised  questions  about  our  own  safety  procedures here  in  the  Stratford Public Schools. We hold the safety and security of our students and staff the number  one priority in  our   district.    Collaboration between   the   Board  of  Education,   Mayor, Superintendent, Police Department, Fire Department, EMS and  all emergency  officials and  agencies to evaluate,  update,  and  practice safety plans and  procedures for each of our buildings to insure we are as prepared  for a crisis as possible is ongoing.  In addition to the current  meetings scheduled  in each building to address  safety, I plan to visit each school on a regular  basis to meet with administration, staff, and students to encourage and maintain  an open, personal dialogue on issues and concerns pertinent to individuals and buildings on all topics.

As  we return  from  the holiday  recess,  I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone in our  community  that  communication is vital to safety.  I encourage  anyone who suspects  suspicious  behavior  toward  our  schools or  community  to contact  me at 203-385-4210, your school principal, or emergency officials directly at 911.

I value  your  feedback  in  helping  keep Stratford  Schools  a safe learning  environment where students can learn and become productive 21st Century citizens.

  Sincerely,

 Margaret M. Lasek

 Interim Superintendent of Schools