New Episode Alert! 🎙️📖
Since it’s National Reading Month, we are slowing down to talk about the heartbeat of education: Literacy.
Join Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler on the latest episode of "From Forest to Shore" as we dive into the "Science of Reading" and the pure joy of getting lost in a book.
We’re joined by an incredible panel of experts and students:
🔸 Diana DiIorio (Asst. Superintendent, PK-6)
🔸 Abbey Owen (Dept. Head, PK-6 Humanities)
🔸 Elizabeth Bourjaili & Melissa Bader (Secondary Humanities Dept. Heads)
🔸 Asha (SHS Junior) & Kiara (BHS Senior)
From building foundational skills in kindergarten to analyzing complex narratives in high school, hear how Stratford Public Schools is fostering the next generation of lifelong learners.
Stick around until the end to hear our youngest learners share their favorite books! 🦖🧚♂️✨
🎧 Listen now! https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#StratfordPS #FromForestToShore #NationalReading Month #LiteracyMatters #ScienceOfReading #BridgeToLearning #StratfordCT #PublicEducation #PodcastLaunch
It’s LIVE! 🎧📖
In honor of National Reading Month, our latest episode is officially out! We’re diving deep into the journey of literacy—from those first ABCs to the complex world of information literacy and AI.
Today we’re talking about:
📕 The Science of Reading: How we are shifting the way we teach our K–6 learners to ensure a solid foundation.
🌍 Building Empathy: How literature helps our students understand the world around them.
🌉 The Bridge: How our elementary and secondary teams collaborate so students smoothly transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn."
🧠 Critical Thinking: Preparing our older students to navigate the age of the internet and AI.
🍭 DON’T MISS THE END: We asked our youngest learners about their favorite books, and their answers are the perfect way to start your morning!
🔗 https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#NationalReadingMonth #LiteracyMatters #NewEpisode #PodcastLaunch #ScienceOfReading #Humanities #EducationInnovation #StudentPerspective #ReadingIsJoy
In celebration of National Reading Month, we’re "closing the book" on the mystery of how students become master readers. From the early stages of the "Science of Reading" to navigating AI and information literacy in high school, we’re tracing the entire journey.
What’s inside this episode?
📖 Expert insights from our Humanities Department Heads.
📱 The student perspective on why reading still matters in a world of instant notifications.
🌉 The "Bridge": How we ensure no student gets lost moving from "learning to read" to "reading to learn."
✨ BONUS: Stick around until the very end of the episode for a special treat—interviews with our youngest learners about their favorite books. (Trust us, you don't want to miss their answers! 🍭)
🗓️ Dropping this Thursday! Get your bookshelves ready.
#NationalReadingMonth #LiteracyJourney #ComingSoon #PodcastTeaser #ScienceOfReading #EducationFirst #StudentVoice #ReadingIsPower #SchoolDistrict
The Family Engagement Survey closes TODAY. This is it! 🏁
We need your feedback to help us plan for the upcoming year. If you haven't clicked that link yet, this is your sign.
🔗 https://surveys.panoramaed.com/stratford/2702593263/surveys or Instagram link in bio
#SPSFamilies #ClosingTime #FinalReminder #StratfordPublicSchools
The Board of Education is currently reviewing the proposed school calendar and has asked for additional feedback from families regarding our Data & Collaboration Half Days. The proposed calendar includes seven half days for staff collaboration and data review.
Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey to help inform the Board’s discussion.
https://stratk12.jotform.com/team/superintendents-office/datacollabsurvey
Thank you for sharing your feedback.
Dear Stratford Community,
Over the past several days, I have heard from many members of our community regarding the recent events surrounding our high school rivalry. I want to sincerely thank those who have taken the time to share their perspectives, feedback, and ideas. It is clear how deeply our community cares about our students, our schools, and the traditions that bring us together.
Click on the link to continue reading the letter sent home to the Stratford Community: https://aptg.co/Vt_fmy
🚨 FINAL CALL: SURVEY CLOSES FRIDAY! 🚨
This is your second-to-last chance to let us know how we’re doing. Whether you have praises or suggestions for growth, we want to hear it all.
Don't wake up Monday wishing you’d said something—click the link below or in our bio on Instagram RIGHT NOW to finish the survey! 🖱️✨
https://surveys.panoramaed.com/stratford/2702593263/surveys
#LastChance #SPS #YourVoiceCounts #DeadlineApproaching
EPISODE 2 IS LIVE! 🎙️🚨
“Every day I don’t go to school… I need to be there. There’s stuff I need to do.” — Kanye Tracey, Bunnell High Student.
When was the last time you heard a student say that?! That’s the power of hands-on learning. Today on the pod, we’re joined by Sam Rosenberg and students Kanye, Ryan, Madison, and Eddie. 🌟
We’re diving into:
🩺 Why nursing students are washing feet and brushing teeth to build empathy.
🎮 How video game design feels more like a “club” than a class.
🍳 The high-pressure world of culinary arts.
🎥 Why every modern business needs a video production pro.
Click Here to listen now ! 🎧✨
#NewEpisode #FromForestToShore #StratfordPublicSchools #CTE #HandsOnLearning #StudentLife #PodcastAlert #StratfordCT
The clock is ticking on our Family Engagement Survey. We’ve already had so many great responses, but we don’t want your seat at the table to be empty.
Help us shape the future of Stratford schools before the window closes!
🔗 Link ed here or in our bio on Instagram:
https://surveys.panoramaed.com/stratford/2702593263/surveys
(It takes less than 10 minutes—shorter than a coffee break! ☕)
#StratfordSchools #OurCommunity #ShapeTheFuture #5DaysLeft
Due to possible icy conditions, Stratford will be observing a 2 hour delay today.
Thank you.
🍎 Do you know an educator who represents the best of Stratford? 🍎
Stratford Public Schools is officially inviting staff, parents, and residents to submit nominations for the 2027 Stratford Teacher of the Year! This program, in conjunction with the Connecticut State Department of Education, honors tenured, full-time educators who are exceptionally skilled and dedicated.
➡️ Who Can Nominate? Any adult who has had contact with the teacher within the past three years. You may nominate one tenured, full-time teacher per year.
Submission Requirements:
➡️ Three Signatures Required: The form must include signatures from two nominators (one must be a certified staff member) and one administrator.
➡️ Format: Nominations must be submitted as a hard copy or a scanned copy with original signatures.
➡️ Where to Send: Submit to Heather Borges, Acting Superintendent, via email at borgesh@stratk12.org or by mail/drop-off at 1000 East Broadway, Stratford, CT 06615.
⏰ DEADLINE: All forms must be received at the BOE Administrative Offices by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026. Late arrivals will not be considered. Let’s celebrate the incredible professionals who inspire our students every day! 🌟
🔗 https://aptg.co/LVF5YB
#StratfordPublicSchools #TeacherOfTheYear #StratfordCT #Education #ThankATeacher #SPS2027 #CTEducation
Due to the potential for afternoon and early evening ice and concerns about safe dismissal and travel home, Stratford Public Schools and the Central Office will be closed today.
We appreciate your understanding.
Please stay safe.
This Thursday on the From Forest to Shore podcast, we’re going behind the scenes of our Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways. We aren't just talking about textbooks—we’re talking about hospital corners, culinary masterpieces, video game design, and live production.
Join hosts Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they sit down with Sam Rosenberg and four incredible students who are already building their careers before they even graduate. 🎓✨
You don’t want to miss this one. Trust us, these students are the real deal.
🎧 Dropping Thursday 3/5!
#StratfordSchools #FromForestToShore #CTE #FutureReady #StudentVoice #CareerPathways #StratfordCT #PortraitOfAGraduate
Have you shared your voice yet? We’re 10 days away from closing our Family Engagement Survey. 🗓️
Your perspective on school safety, academics, and the classroom environment is exactly what we need to make SPS even better. It’s quick, easy, and makes a huge impact!
⏱️ Time: Less than 10 minutes.
🔗 Action: Click here (or in our bio on Instagram): https://surveys.panoramaed.com/stratford/2702593263/surveys
#SPSFamilies #FamilyEngagement #VoiceMatters #PanoramaSurvey
Please join Stratford Public Schools in celebrating Dr. Michelle Eckler's recent recognition as a TOP TEN (10) DIRECTORS OF INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY 2026.
Dr. Eckler joined Stratford Public Schools in 2025 as Director of Instructional Technology, bringing a classroom-informed perspective to system-level leadership. Dr. Eckler oversees professional learning on instructional technology, instructional technology support, digital privacy initiatives, and community outreach.
In Dr. Eckler's words - "Its all about finding the ways to put the technology into the instruction so the technology is not taking over the content".
Due to worsening storm conditions this morning that are more severe than originally anticipated, Stratford Public Schools will be closed today, Wednesday, February 25.
The previously announced two-hour delay is no longer in effect.
Road conditions, continued snowfall, and travel safety concerns require us to make this change to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
All district schools will be closed for the day. Central Office will open on a two- hour delay.
We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we continue to prioritize safety. Please monitor district communications for any additional updates.
Due to the forecasted morning mix of snow and rain, Stratford Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed start tomorrow.
Because of the delayed opening, the previously scheduled early dismissal for Data and Collaboration has been canceled. Students will dismiss at their regular scheduled time.
Please allow additional travel time in the morning and continue to monitor district communications for any updates.
Thank you for your flexibility and partnership.
Heather Borges
Superintendent
Stratford Public Schools
Dear Stratford Public Schools Families and Staff,
Due to the severity of the storm and the continued hazardous conditions, Stratford Public Schools will also be closed on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
The Department of Public Works requires additional time to safely clear roads, parking lots, and walkways. The storm has resulted in heavy, wet snow and significant ice accumulation following plowing, creating unsafe travel and arrival conditions.
All district schools and offices will be closed for the day.
The safety of our students, staff, and families remains our highest priority. We appreciate the tireless efforts of our DPW crews and first responders as they work to ensure our community is safe.
Please continue to monitor district communications for any additional updates, and take necessary precautions as you travel.
Thank you for your continued understanding and partnership.
