Weekly Message from the Superintendent

Dear Staff and Families,

On Tuesday, we welcomed our new teachers at our annual new teacher orientation.  The theme for orientation was Pride, Passion and Promise: Reclaiming Your "Why".  Several veteran teachers and administrators shared insights and offered guidance and support to our new colleagues.

Later in the week our current staff returned and enjoyed a warm welcome from building leaders and me during our annual convocation event.  The virtual keynote speaker, Dr. Manny Scott, was recommended to us by members of the Westhill High School staff.  I know that staff in each building were excited to reconnect with colleagues and friends after a well-earned summer break.

I would be remiss if I did not mention that our building leaders and central office administration came together last week for a 3-day retreat.  The administrators had the opportunity to discuss the role of the instructional leader and learn more about the new curriculum that will be rolled out this year.  Thanks to all that engaged in this important work on behalf of our students and staff.

Back to School

I want to take a moment to thank our community partners for hosting so many back to school events to ensure as many students as possible have new school supplies, backpacks, clothes, and in some cases technology to begin the school year.  Providing the resources needed for students to enter school on the first day with true confidence is an important step to a positive start to the school year for our students.

Kindergarten Start Age for 2024-2025

A quick reminder for families with preschool age students. Earlier this week the first of two information sessions about the kindergarten age requirements effective with the 2024-25 school year was held.  Please click here to view a recording of the session if you were unable to attend.  The second session is scheduled for Monday, September 11 at 7 p.m. via zoom. 

Reminder – Physicals Required for Grades K, 6, and 9

Students entering kindergarten and Grades 6 and 9 in Fall 2023 are required to have a recent physical on file with Stamford Public Schools.  We always recommend that you schedule your child’s physical annually around their birthday, as it can be difficult to book appointments right before school opens.

Please bring this form with you to your appointment.  Your doctor will need to fill it out for the school nurse.  If your child does not have a healthcare provider they see regularly, click here for a list of providers in Stamford that offer school entry physicals.

Bus Routes and First View App

Please be advised that school bus assignments are now available in PowerSchool.  Please log into your account to view your child’s bus assignment.

All parents are encouraged to download the First View mobile app for real-time information and updates about your child’s bus. Please be aware that tracking may be unavailable or unreliable at the beginning of the school year or at other times when routes are being adjusted. You will be notified via the app when this occurs.

For more information, please visit the Stamford Public Schools Transportation Page.

Free Meals for All Students!

Stamford Public Schools has been approved to provide all students with free healthy meals (breakfast and lunch) during the 2023-24 school year!  Please note:

●         Students will need to enter their pin number so we can track meals served.

●         Families do not have to pay any money or fill out any forms.

●         Students do not need to arrive early for breakfast.  Breakfast will be part of the school day.

Orientation and First Day of School

Finally, we are looking forward to welcoming our kindergarten, 6th and 9th grade students to school on Tuesday, August 29 for orientation.  Wednesday, August 30 is the first day of school for all students.  Stamford Public Schools will be closed on Monday, September 4 in observance of Labor Day.

Stay safe and healthy!

Dr. Tamu Lucero

Superintendent

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