It’s time to look back to see how far we’ve come. In today’s episode of From Forest to Shore, we are bidding a fond farewell to two dedicated public servants who have spent years shaping the future of Stratford Public Schools.
Matt and Michelle ask the outgoing Board Chair and Board Member the hard-hitting questions about their tenure. We’ve edited their answers side-by-side so you can hear their unique perspectives on the work that goes on behind the scenes! 🏫
In this episode, we discuss:
📈 The Science of Reading & rising test scores
🤖 Implementing our new AI Policy
📱 The reality of the Cell Phone Policy
💼 Fiscal responsibility & "running it like a business"
❤️ The personal "Why" that drives public service
Whether you are a parent, staff member, or community member, this is a fascinating look at the decisions that impact our classrooms every day.
👉 Listen at the link in our bio.
#StratfordCT #StratfordPublicSchools #NewEpisode #Podcast #EdLeadership #StudentSuccess #CommunityUpdate #StratfordBoardOfEd #EducationMatters #ListenNow
🍎 Attention 5th & 6th Grade Families!
We are excited to announce a new, convenient way for our upper elementary students to start their day fueled and ready to learn.
New Breakfast Cart Service
Starting today, we are launching a pilot program for our 5th and 6th grade students to streamline their morning routine.
Location: The Sodexo Breakfast Cart located in the hall near the Gym.
Who: All 5th and 6th grade bus riders, car loop drop-offs, and walkers.
The Process: Students will pick up their breakfast at the cart and proceed directly to their classrooms to eat.
Please Note: All students in Grades K–4 will continue to receive and eat their breakfast in the cafeteria as usual.
Healthy & Delicious Options
The Sodexo Breakfast Cart offers the same or similar healthy, nutritious, and delicious options served in the main cafeteria. We are committed to providing the high-quality nutrition your child needs to succeed in the classroom! As always, breakfast is always free for all of our students!
Pilot Program Information
This new system is currently a pilot run. Second Hill Lane Elementary School and Sodexo may make changes to the location or logistics as we deem necessary to ensure the best experience for our students and staff. We appreciate your flexibility and support!
Second Hill Lane Elementary School Building a brighter future, one breakfast at a time.
🎉 Fundraiser Kickoff in school – 02/18/2026
👟 Event Day – 02/27/2026
🎉¡GRAN NOTICIA! 🎉 ¡Las inscripciones para la SHL Glow Run se abren HOY! Estamos intentando recaudar 15 000 dólares para excursiones, asambleas y eventos comunitarios, y necesitamos tu ayuda. Reserva la fecha y permanece atento para obtener más detalles sobre cómo puedes apoyar nuestra causa
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
We’re thrilled for this year’s main fundraiser — SHL Glow Run! Our goal is to raise $15,000 for field trips, assemblies, and community events to benefit our students at Second Hill Lane School.
Why are we excited?
✅ Easy-to-use fundraising platform
✅ Character-building program
✅ Fitness celebration event for every student!
Families will gather donations through MyBooster.com by simply sharing your student’s page with friends and family. Every share makes a difference!
Students will also enjoy 'Star Quest 5,' an exciting character-building adventure where they'll learn important values through space-themed figures and activities.
⭐ Key Dates:
💻 Sign up opens at MyBooster.com – 02/04/2026
🎉 Kickoff in school – 02/18/2026
👟 Event Day – 02/27/2026
Stay tuned for more details and follow us on social media for updates!
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Asunto: ¡Prepárense para nuestra carrera benéfica SHL Glow Run!
Estamos muy emocionados por la principal recaudación de fondos de este año: ¡la SHL Glow Run! Nuestro objetivo es recaudar 15 000 dólares para excursiones, asambleas y eventos comunitarios en beneficio de nuestros alumnos de la escuela Second Hill Lane.
¿Por qué estamos tan emocionados?
✅ Plataforma de recaudación de fondos fácil de usar
✅ Programa de formación del carácter
✅ ¡Evento de celebración del fitness para todos los alumnos!
Las familias recaudarán donaciones a través de MyBooster.com simplemente compartiendo la página de su hijo con amigos y familiares. ¡Cada vez que se comparte, se marca la diferencia!
Los alumnos también disfrutarán de «Star Quest 5», una emocionante aventura de formación del carácter en la que aprenderán valores importantes a través de figuras y actividades relacionadas con el espacio.
⭐ Fechas clave:
💻 Inscripciones abiertas en MyBooster.com: 02/04/2026
🎉 Inicio en la escuela: 02/18/2026
👟 Día del evento: 02/27/2026
¡Estén atentos para más detalles y sígannos en las redes sociales para estar al día!
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
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
🗓️ 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
🎉 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!
🥳 IT'S LIVE! 🎧 Tech Integration in the Classroom!
The brand-new episode of "From Forest to Shore" is officially out! 🚀
Join Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they sit down with our amazing Technology Integration Specialists to talk about how we're building better learners by seamlessly weaving technology into every part of the curriculum. 🧑💻📚
Learn how they are helping teachers and students use tools purposefully to boost creativity and problem-solving!
Hit the link here to listen now and get inspired by the innovation happening across Stratford Public Schools! 👇
#SPSPodcast #FromForestToShore #EdTech #TechIntegration #StratfordPS #PodcastLaunch #InnovationInEducation #StudentSuccess #K12 #NewEpisode
🎙️ New Podcast Alert! 💻 Tech Integration in the Classroom!
The latest episode of "From Forest to Shore" is airing soon! Join Matt Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they chat with our amazing Technology Integration Specialists about the crucial shift to seamlessly integrating tech into the curriculum. 🌲🌊
📅 Airs: Thursday, December 4th at 8:00 AM!
Hear directly from our team on: ➡️ The transition from Library Media Specialist to Tech Integration Specialist. 💡 Why integration is key to student engagement and deeper learning. 🎨 Exciting tech tools like Google Drawing, Google Sites, and the future impact of Generative AI!
Learn how this dedicated team is empowering both students and staff to become solution-driven problem solvers and lifelong learners, fulfilling our Portrait of a Graduate!
Set a reminder! Listen in to get informed, feel connected, and be inspired by the power of education in Stratford! 🔗 Access the Podcast here!
#SPSPodcast #FromForestToShore #EdTech #TechIntegration #StratfordPS #PortraitOfAGraduate #TechSpecialist #FutureOfLearning #K12Education #TechnologyInTheClassroom #LifelongLearning #CTSchools #NewEpisode
🎨 NEW EPISODE IS LIVE! 🎶
The latest "From Forest to Shore" podcast is here, and it's all about the beating heart of our schools: the Fine Arts Department! 🎭
Join us as we sit down with Brian Crook, Department Head of Fine Arts, to explore the vast and vibrant world of Music and Visual Arts in Stratford Public Schools! In this creative conversation, you'll learn about:
🎨The Arts Ecosystem: From K-12 Visual Arts, painting, and graphic design to performing ensembles (choir, band, orchestra), music technology, and theater!
🎨Skills for Life: How the arts are the proving ground for our Portrait of a Graduate competencies—building communicators, collaborators, and problem-solvers daily.
🎨Innovation Ahead: Getting excited about Modern Band (rock, pop, hip hop) being piloted at the middle school and the vision for music industry career connections!
Brian reminds us: "The arts, they're not a luxury. They are a necessity." Find out why!
Listen to the full episode now! https://stratfordpsct.sites.thrillshare.com/o/tech/page/podcast-links
#FromForestToShore #SPSCT #StratfordPublicSchools #FineArts #MusicEducation #VisualArts #PortraitOfAGraduate #CreativeLearning #ModernBand #ArtsAreEssential #Podcast
