Lea DiStefano - Eli Whitney's 2026 CAS Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year -- I am deeply grateful to be selected as the CAS Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year and feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a supportive school community. The students, staff, families, partners, and district colleagues in Stratford make this work meaningful, and I am proud to share this recognition with them.
On the next episode of From Forest to Shore, hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler are sitting down for a candid "Exit Interview" edition. We’re joined by outgoing Board of Education Chair Mike Henrick and Board Member Lisa Carroll-Fabian as they reflect on their years of service to Stratford Public Schools.
We tried something a little different this time: Two separate sit-downs. The exact same questions. One side-by-side perspective. 🤝
From the tough decisions (like cell phone policies and budgets) to the moments that made it all worth it (graduation day! 🎓), you won’t want to miss their insights on how far our district has come.
🎧 Drop date: Thursday, Feb 5th. Turn on your post notifications so you don’t miss it! 🔔
#StratfordPublicSchools #FromForestToShore #StratfordCT #PublicEducation #BoardOfEd #PodcastTeaser #Community #StratfordPride #EdTech
Tuesdays starting Feb 3
Pre-K 4:15-5:00 PM
Kindergarten–2nd Grade 5:00-5:45 PM
$45
Second Hill Lane School Gymnasium
Stratford, CT — Stratford Public Schools proudly recognized the Bunnell High School Special Olympics Unified team with the official unveiling and raising of the Unified Champion School banner in the Bunnell High School gymnasium. The recognition celebrates Bunnell High School’s leadership in fostering inclusive school communities through the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® program.
The Unified program at Bunnell High School brings together students from both Bunnell High School and Stratford High School, uniting students with and without disabilities through inclusive athletics, student leadership, and school-wide engagement activities. This collaborative approach reflects Stratford Public Schools’ commitment to belonging, equity, and access for all students.
The honored Unified team exemplifies the district’s Portrait of a Graduate, demonstrating collaboration, empathy, leadership, perseverance, and respect. Through Unified programming, students develop meaningful relationships, strengthen school culture, and model inclusive practices that extend beyond athletics and into everyday school life.
“This recognition affirms the power of inclusion and the impact of Unified programming,” said Superintendent Heather Borges. “Our students from both high schools come together as teammates, leaders, and champions. Their commitment to one another represents the very best of Stratford Public Schools.”
District offices will open on a three-hour delay, but will be open.
Please note that the Board of Education Meeting and Finance Committee Meeting will be held as scheduled on Tuesday evening.
Thank you for your continued partnership and cooperation. Please continue to monitor district communication channels for any updates.
Due to inclement weather, all schools and the District Office will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026. Stay safe and warm!
#SnowDay #SchoolClosed
💡That is the powerful advice Bunnell High School Junior Anthony Darbilli shares in our latest episode regarding how adults should talk to students about their digital habits.
Episode 9 of From Forest to Shore is LIVE TODAY! 🎧
Join hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they chat with Anthony and digital expert Dr. Rachelle Dene Poth (@rdene915) about:
✨ The pressure of the "highlight reel" culture.
✨ Why we need a "shared language" for tech at home and school.
✨ How to use technology without letting it use you.
This isn't just for students—it's a must-listen for staff and families, too.
This week on From Forest to Shore, we are tackling the massive topic of Digital Wellness.
We’re sitting down with renowned author and AI expert @rdene915, along with Bunnell High School junior Anthony Darbilli, to talk about the pressure to be "always on".
They are helping our district redefine our Acceptable Use Policy—moving from a list of "don'ts" to a guidebook on how to find balance in a digital world.
🎧 New episode drops this Thursday, January 22nd!
#StratfordPublicSchools #DigitalWellness #EdTech #StudentVoice #FromForestToShore #StratfordCT #DigitalCitizenship
🍳 vs 🏗️
Today on Tech “Twos” Day, we are shifting gears to dive deep into Standard 1.4: The Innovative Designer. It’s not just about using tech; it’s about a deliberate design process that challenges students to solve authentic problems.
In this session, we’re moving beyond simple checklists to explore how we can help students: 🔹 Empathize with users before they build 🔹 Iterate through the "messy middle" 🔹 Treat failure as just "data collection"
Join us today as we discuss moving students from "What do I do next?" to "How can I solve this?".
#TechTwosDay #InnovativeDesigner #EdTech #DesignThinking #StratfordPublicSchools #DigitalLiteracy #StudentAgency #GrowthMindset
Today, we take you inside our secondary schools with the incredible Humanities and STEM Department Heads! Learn how they are working together to shape the future of learning in Stratford.
🔥 In this episode, you’ll discover:
The magic of interdisciplinary connection—bridging Math/Science and English/Social Studies.
How we are intentionally building Portrait of a Graduate skills (like collaboration and problem-solving) into every lesson.
Inspiring ways we are lifting student voice and choice, from book clubs to high-level inquiries.
Ready to hear the stories that connect our community?
Listen Now! https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#FromForestToShore #SPSCT #StratfordPublicSchools #NewEpisode #PodcastLaunch #PortraitOfAGraduate #StudentVoice #STEMeducation #Humanities #CTschools #EducationLeaders
Stratford Public Schools and the Early Childhood Collaborative of Stratford is hosting Early Childhood & Kindergarten Discovery Night on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 (Snow Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026), 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Stratford High School Auditorium.
Come enjoy this free event open to all Stratford families with young children ages 0-5 and those entering Kindergarten in September 2026. Attendees will have the chance to learn about Early Childhood Resources and Stratford Public Schools Kindergarten Information.
Click on the flyer link below for additional information and the agenda.
2026-2027 Early Childhood & Kindergarten Discovery Night Flyer (English ) - (Spanish )
Kindergarten registration for September 2026 will begin in February. If you have a child who will turn five (5) years of age on or before September 1, 2026, you will be able to access the registration process starting Thursday, February 19, 2026.
🗓️ Mark Your Calendars! New Podcast Episode Drops January 8th! 🌲➡️🌊
Get ready for an insightful conversation on the next episode of "From Forest to Shore," the official podcast of Stratford Public Schools!
We're diving deep into the secondary school experience with the amazing Department Heads for Humanities and STEM. They share how they're bringing the Portrait of a Graduate to life in every classroom. 🎓
What you'll learn:
➡️How we're empowering student voice through book clubs, authentic inquiry, and projects (like a cardboard boat race! 🛶).
➡️The exciting interdisciplinary collaboration between departments, ensuring students develop critical skills that last long after graduation.
➡️The intentional design of new curriculum focusing on communication, problem-solving, and lifelong learning.
➡️ This is a must-listen for families, staff, and community members who want to know what's happening at the forefront of education in Stratford.
Tune in on January 8, 2026!
Tune in: https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#FromForestToShore #SPSCT #StratfordPublicSchools #NewEpisode #January8th #EducationInnovation #PortraitOfAGraduate #StudentVoice #STEMandHumanities #CTschools
A Special Message from Heather Borges, Acting Superintendent of Schools
Dear Stratford Public Schools Community,
As we head into the holiday break, I want to take a moment to wish each of you a joyful, restful, and meaningful holiday season. I hope you have the opportunity to watch our Stratford Public Schools holiday video and feel the warmth, pride, and gratitude that reflects our incredible community.
🔗https://youtu.be/LVs7kLMSwQY
Thank you to our students, families, teachers, staff, and administrators for a wonderful start to the school year. Your dedication, partnership, and care for one another continue to make Stratford a special place to learn, grow, and thrive.
As we look ahead to our return from break, I want to gently remind our community that attendance matters. Being present in school every day plays a critical role in student learning and success. Let’s continue working together to ensure our students are engaged, supported, and present each day.
Wishing you peace, health, and happiness during the holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back soon.
🎉 NEW PODCAST IS LIVE! 🎉
Dive deep into the essential work supporting every student in Stratford Public Schools with the latest episode of "From Forest to Shore"! 🎧🌲➡️🌊
We're joined by Kate Ceriello (Director) and the amazing team from Student and Staff Services to unpack the vital support they provide across our district.
What you'll hear about:
➡️ The A to Z of Support: Discover the huge scope of the department, from IEPs and 504s to the incredible work of our paraprofessionals and specialists (over 1,200 students served! 🤯).
➡️Demystifying the Process: The difference between a 504 plan and an IEP, and how families can initiate an evaluation.
➡️Innovative Programs: Learn about our specialized in-district programs like Strive (Transition Services) and the vital partnerships we maintain with community organizations (like Sterling House and the Rotary Club!). 🤝
➡️Families, your voice is an integral part of the team! Hear the most important message this team wants to share with you.
Listen here: https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#FromForestToShore #SPSCT #StratfordPublicSchools #StudentServices #SpecialEducation #IEP #504Plan #StriveProgram #CommunityPartnerships #EducationSupport #CTschools #Teamwork
Our New Family AI Webinar airs tonight, December 16th @7pm. The topic? Can AI Help Parents? Ways to Make Life Easier 🎥! Discover practical, ethical ways to use AI to support your family and help your child thrive in a tech-rich world 🚀.
✔️ Learn simple life hacks using AI.
✔️Get tips on navigating technology with your kids.
✔️Take part in this month's Family AI Challenge!
Watch the webinar and start your journey toward a more balanced, tech-savvy family life! 💻👨👩👧👦
#FamilyAI #ParentingHacks #TechSavvyKids #AIforParents #NewWebinar #DigitalFamily #ParentingInTheDigitalAge #FamilyChallenge
Mark your calendars for December 18, 2025! Hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler sit down with the amazing leaders of our Student and Staff Services Department for a deep dive you won't want to miss.
Director Kate Ceriello and her team clarify some of the most-asked questions about support in our schools, including:
✔️ What is the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan? 🤔
✔️ How does SPS ensure a Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for students?
✔️ Learn about our fantastic programs like Strive and Bridges!
Get ready to feel informed and inspired! Episode airs 12/18/25! 🔔
https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#SPSCT #FromForestToShore #ComingSoon #PodcastTeaser #SpecialEducation #StudentSupport #StratfordCT #EducationMatters
There will be no half-day morning preschool.
Please travel safely!
Are your students ready to be the architects of their own knowledge? This essential virtual session dives deep into CT Digital Learning Standard 1.3: Knowledge Constructor, giving K-12 educators the toolkit to turn research reports into real-world solutions.
We break down the skills required to navigate the digital age: evaluating sources, synthesizing data, and creating meaningful artifacts.
✨ Modeled Strategies & Tools:
🔍 1.3.a Intentional Search: Using Google Docs to master Boolean logic and precision searching.
✅1.3.b Critical Evaluation: Applying the CRAAP Test visually with the Kami Annotation Tool to spot bias and verify authority.
🧠1.3.c Synthesis: Leveraging Google Sheets as a Synthesis Organizer to curate data and construct new conclusions.
💡1.3.d Real-World Impact: Generating authentic, local projects using MagicSchool AI.
SPS Educators: Access all templates and guides in our Google Classroom today! 🔗
#KnowledgeConstructor #ISTEStandards #ISTE1_3 #TeacherPD #EdTech #DigitalLearning #SPSLearns #ResearchSkills #SourceEvaluation #KamiApp #GoogleForEducation #TechTwosDay #StratfordCT
