Weekly Message from the Superintendent

Superintendent's Weekly Message - May 12, 2023

Dear Staff and Families,

As Teacher and Staff Appreciation draws to a close, I want to extend a special thanks to our talented and dedicated teachers for all they do every day to support our students and families. Please know that your hard work and commitment is noticed and appreciated not just during this week, but all year.

Thank you to everyone who joined us last night to celebrate Turn of River New Arrivals Teacher Elba Simms, who was recently named SPS Teacher of the Year. Elba was honored last night along with the Teacher of the Year finalists and the Spotlight award winners. It was a wonderful evening for all who were recognized. Congratulations again to Hart Elementary School First Grade Teacher Wendy Tang, who was named SPEF Teacher of the Year in a ceremony on Thursday, April 27.

Strawberry Hill Players

Last Friday, my husband John and I attended a performance of The Prom, a musical production staged by Stamford High School’s drama club, the Strawberry Hill Players. It was truly a display of the musical talent we have here in Stamford. Kudos to the student performers as well as the members of the backstage crew responsible for the amazing sets, costumes, lighting, and sound.

A special thank you to the music teachers at Stamford High School and throughout the district who help our students explore their interest in the performing arts!

Youth Enrichment Program: Reaching Our Communities (R.O.C.)

Thank you to the Ferguson Library for inviting me to the 6-week Youth Enrichment Program funded by the State of Connecticut Judicial Branch. As part of this program, students receive training and support in areas including financial literacy, mental health, public speaking, workforce development, and more.

Mental Health Resources

The end of the school year is exciting, but it can also create stress for some students and families. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to remind everyone that the following community partners have resources available to help those struggling with mental health challenges:

In addition, you can reach out to your child’s school counselor, social worker or psychologist for guidance and referrals. For more information, please click on this link.

Amistad Event at Harbor Point

This is the second year that all Stamford Public Schools eighth grade students are participating in the Discovering Amistad program. The Amistad is currently docked in Stamford Harbor, and students will visit the schooner throughout the month. Tomorrow, representatives from the City of Stamford, Stamford Public Schools, and Discovering Amistad will host a Community Welcome Event from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Harbor Point. Tours of the Amistad will be available until 6 pm. Please join us for this event if your schedule allows.

BOE Teaching and Learning Committee

On Tuesday night, during the Teaching and Learning committee meeting, Associate Superintendent Lori Rhodes led a discussion about various new options that will be available beginning in the 2023-2024 school year. The presentation illustrates the district's commitment to developing programs that ensure each student has access to, and is engaged in, rigorous and relevant learning opportunities that prepare them to become productive contributing members of society. We are very excited about the additional programs and support that will be available for our students in the near future. If you missed the presentation, please click the following link to view.

SoundWaters Panel Discussion

Please join our community partner, SoundWaters, on Monday, May 15 at 6:00 p.m. for “Building a Resilient Community through Climate Science Education.” During this panel discussion, hosted by NPR’s Ira Flatow, panelists will discuss Connecticut’s new state law requiring climate science be taught in all public schools beginning in 2023-24. This free event will take place at the Cohen SoundWaters Harbor Center, 200 Southfield Avenue. Advanced registration is required. For more information, and to register, visit SoundWaters.org/May15.

Reminder – Community Conversation

● Gifted and Talented Program: Virtual – Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Stay safe and healthy!

Dr. Tamu Lucero

Superintendent

Espanol

Creole