Shout Outs

Stamford High Celebrates Seniors at Annual Scholarship Award Breakfast

Stamford High honored their seniors at the annual Scholarship Breakfast Ceremony on June 3. This event celebrates the scholarships and awards that students have earned during their time at SHS. Over $291,300 (and still counting) was awarded to our Stamford High School students in scholarship awards. The majority of these scholarships are from within our own community. 

 

Additionally, students who earned the Seal of Biliteracy through the World Language Department were also celebrated, some of which earned the Seal in multiple languages. Congratulations to all our seniors on their hard work and commitment to applying to scholarships and/or their dedication to the Seal of Biliteracy process.

Submitted by Andrena Forlenzo-Legutko

 

AVID Publishing Party Celebrated Our Amazing First Grade Authors!

Shout out to our amazing first grade students for hosting an AVID Publishing Party and sharing their incredible book “When I Grow Up” with families! Through Student Treasures, our young authors and illustrators proudly showcased their hard work and creativity. Ms. Socci, Ms. DiNino, Mrs. Stevens, Miss Carter and Miss Lupinacci threw a VIP Red Carpet event for families to cherish and remember!

 

Throughout this project, students learned the writing process; brainstorming ideas, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. They explored what it means to dream big, imagining their future careers, and expressing their hopes through words and art. We’re so proud of their dedication, growth, and courage to share their dreams with the world!

 

Principal Sibyl Brooks Receives AVID Achievement Award

Toquam Principal Sibyl Brooks has been honored with an AVID Global Achievement Award for her exemplary contribution to education and AVID implementation at Toquam. She will be celebrated at AVID’s 45th Anniversary Reception at AVID’s Summer Institute in Orlando next week. Way to go, Principal Brooks! Your Toquam Family is so proud of you and this amazing accomplishment! 

Submitted by Jenna Cinelli

 

Flag Day Ceremony

The Julia Stark Community had a wonderful celebration for Flag Day with a big school assembly. Many special guests attended, including members of the Knights of Columbus. The second graders sang patriotic songs that reminded everyone about the meaning and importance of the country’s flag. This event helped the students understand why the flag is important and how it brings people together. It was a fantastic way to celebrate Flag Day and learn about the values that the flag stands for. 

 

Many thanks to everyone who helped make this event special. The Knights of Columbus Veterans showed their support, and the music department, including Gregory Herrmann, Brian Ditchella, and Graham Leftwich, provided wonderful song selections interpreted by the second grade students. We appreciate the hard work of the second grade teachers: Betsy DeSantis, Nicole Faubel, Sonia Plummer Brown, and Stacey Flacher. A big thank you to the Stark Administration, Dr. Lisa Armstrong and Iuliana Roata. We also thank the custodial staff and Amaria Armstrong and Monica Fratarolli for the lovely Flag Day decorations.

 

Reading Partners Celebration

Julia Stark celebrated the wonderful Reading Partners who volunteered this year to help students improve their reading skills. They shared stories and taught students how to enjoy books. Thanks to their help, many students learned the joy of reading and became more confident in their abilities. Julia was proud of the support and dedication shown by the volunteers, knowing their efforts would make a big difference in the students’ lives.

 

Many thanks to Sarah Santasiero for coordinating this partnership. 

Submitted by Iuliana Roata

 

Much to Celebrate!

Much to celebrate these past few weeks at Stillmeadow. Thank you to Ms. Serrichio and Mr. DePreta for a successful Field Day for all! Even Storm from the Bridgeport Islanders came to cheer us on!

 

Our Kindergarten students shined during their Moving Up Ceremony!

 

Senator Richard Blumenthal met with and inspired our Student Council as part of Junior Achievement Day!

 

We celebrated Flag Day all together, and thank our art teachers Ms. Dugan and Ms. Jacobson, for the wonderful hats, and our music teachers, Ms. Harris and Mr. Brown for leading our students in singing a variety of patriotic songs! 

 

Our 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony was emotional, and a special way to celebrate and honor our students as they move on to middle school! Way to go Stillmeadow!

Submitted by Kathleen Kelley

 

100 BLK Men Teach Financial Literacy to Roscco Students

The 100 Black Men organization, in partnership with ROSCCO, had another successful school year of mentoring our young men, this year at Dolan and Rippowam, where the focus was on imparting the principles of financial literacy through the stock market game. Congratulations to this year’s winners, each of whom received a prize of $100.00. 

Submitted by Latisha Williams

 

AITE Students Participate in Community Design for Jackie Robinson Park

Seventeen students participated in the Intro to Architecture project, where professional architects served as mentors on a community-wide effort to rebuild Jackie Robinson Park.

 

Two of the My Architecture Workshops students — AITE sophomores Sophia Sperraza and Angela Chavez — presented their data on Friday at the first annual Fairfield County Community Foundation Upside Leadership Forum at Sacred Heart University. The students described the community’s objective, the youth involvement in surveying, design, and storytelling with a focus on community connection and design for residents, and what they learned from connecting directly with residents and hearing their ideas about how the park should be used. They also reflected on how their understanding of design changed as the project progressed.

 

The students were well received by the crowd of over 200 attendees, with the event coordinator praising them directly during the closing remarks. We look forward to seeing the new Jackie Robinson Park!

 

Submitted by Tina Rivera

 

Westover Thanks JCC Reading Partners

JCC Reading Partners wrapped up another successful year at Westover. The tutors volunteered their time to read with our young readers and help boost their reading skills. Our students looked forward to their reading partner visiting each week.Thank you to The Stamford JCC for their ongoing partnership with SPS!

 

Westover Hallway to Transform with Student Art!

Westover is thrilled when teachers unleash their creativity and think outside the box, and Art Teacher Brooke DiCapua has done just that! Brooke recently approached administration with a brilliant plan: to frame a student-designed poster for every 4th and 5th-grade showcase.

 

These stunning framed artworks will soon adorn our hallways, creating a vibrant, lasting tribute to the incredible culminating performances of our students year after year. It's a wonderful way to both remember and celebrate their talent and hard work!

 

We’re incredibly excited to kick off this new tradition with the first posters from this year’s fantastic shows: “The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White” and “Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.”

 

A huge thank you to Brooke for this truly fantastic and imaginative project!

 

Proud Moment: Westover Alumni Visit Before Graduation

Westover received a heartwarming visit on Thursday, June 12, as four alumni stopped by before their high school graduation! It was a truly special moment as they walked familiar hallways, catching up with former teachers and fondly recalling their Westover days. We couldn't be prouder to see these bright young minds heading to the University of Michigan, MIT, and two to Boston College this fall. Congratulations!

Submitted by Larissa Weir

 

 

Flag Day Celebration

Today, the entire KT Murphy Elementary School community gathered to celebrate Flag Day during our final all-school morning meeting of the year. This cherished tradition brings students, staff, and families together in a spirit of unity and community and school spirit.

 

We extend our sincere thanks to our dedicated specialists who plan and organize this meaningful celebration each year.

 

We are incredibly proud of all our student presenters and the various grade levels who have performed throughout the year at our morning meetings, showcasing their talents and leadership. Their contributions have helped build a strong, connected school community.

Submitted by Jaimie Fisco

 

What is an SPS Shout Out?

An SPS Shout Out is a special recognition that acknowledges school communities, staff members or students who have inspired us with a unique project, an outstanding job or a special effort that had a positive impact on our students or community.  Each week we will celebrate a few by sharing with all SPS staff and posting on the district website. Please share any or all of these with your friends and families.   

SPS Administrators can submit Shout Outs for consideration through the link available in the Administrator Weekly. Please note the deadline, word limit, and photo limit. We look forward to seeing your submissions!

STS Celebrates Hard Work

We are so proud of all the students in Transition Services who worked hard at all their job and community sites across Stamford this year! The teachers and job coaches celebrated them with a picnic at Salzi Park and a luncheon at Zody’s. We are so proud of them as they learn skills to become independent adults! Way to go STS students! 

Submitted by Steven Angelo

 

Parent Facilitators Rocked This Year!

Parent Facilitators were incredibly instrumental in the success of our School Climate survey, surpassing last year’s completion rates. They connected families with needed resources in such a personalized way that parents expressed deep gratitude for having such support at their schools. Parent Facilitators also organized family engagement events and held ongoing parent meetings throughout the school year. They consistently went above and beyond to make families feel welcome and, without a doubt, provided immense peace and support during the most challenging times.

 

Submitted by Juan Pazmino

 

Paraprofessionals Learn Spanish and Haitian-Creole!

Congratulations to our Paraprofessionals that completed an online course in either Spanish or Haitian-Creole! 

 

Stamford received a grant to provide professional development for paraprofessionals this school year, which included learning Spanish and Haitian Creole in a virtual classroom in the evening each week. The CT State Education Grants Dept applauded our efforts to help our paraprofessionals learn a foreign language. 

 

We would like to recognize the paraprofessionals that successfully completed their Spanish or Haitian Creole virtual course. The following paraprofessionals met the attendance and participation requirements for successful completion of the language course. 

Submitted by Mary Enright

 

Kindergarten Celebrated their Moving up Day

On June 6, Hart Magnet Elementary School Kindergarteners celebrated their moving up day singing a variety of songs, such as: “It’s a Beautiful Day,” “ABC Blues,” “Three Little Birds,” and “Can’t Stop the Kindergarten” that enamoured our families. A very special song titled: “From Our Hearts to Your Heart” was sung to Mrs. Darling by our talented Kindergarteners. There was not a dry eye in the audience. 

 

We thank our Kindergarteners teachers: Stacy Spezzano (GLL), Maureen Concha, Jodi Fogelman, Linda Kuehn, Corinne Remondino, staff, families, and all those who helped put together this beautiful celebration. We wish our Kindergarteners a wonderful summer and we are looking forward to seeing them in First Grade! 

 

Students Celebrate “Strive For Five”

Congratulations to Hart Magnet Elementary School and all SPS students with five or less absences this year. SPS district initiative “Strive for Five” is designed to promote attendance in our schools. We are thrilled to announce 205 Hart students were recognized over the announcements, received a certificate and a photo op as they received this special award. What an accomplishment!

 

Third Graders Receive a Visit from a “Real Life” Paleontologist!

Hart Magnet’s third grade students had a wonderful opportunity traveling back in time with Dr. Chris Gilbert, Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Hunter College. Our students became paleontologists for the day, exploring fossil casts and discovering fascinating details about the teeth, claws, and even skin of various dinosaurs from three different geologic time periods: Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous. Each child went home with a copy of the book A Day in the Badlands, co-authored by Dr. Gilbert. We thank Dr. Gilbert for encouraging future paleontologists. Thank you to all who planned and organized this event for our students. 

 

Hart Magnet Honors Linda Darling with a SURPRISE Retirement Assembly

On Monday, June 9 Hart Magnet Elementary School teachers, staff, students and PTO gathered in the gymnasium to honor Linda Darling for her 49 years of service to Stamford Public Schools. Mrs. Darling has been a dedicated, hard working and respected principal of Hart Magnet Elementary School for 18 years. Each grade level came up with their very own personalized ideas to share with Mrs. Darling on her special day. She was relished with original songs, poetry, chants, interviews, and a proclamation why we love Mrs. Darling! The overall colorscape was a shade of Mrs. Darling’s favorite color: Pink! This was a beautiful event shared with the Hart Magnet Elementary School Community! We wish Mrs. Darling all the best in her Retirement.

 

Fifth Grade Moving Up Celebration

On June 10, Hart Magnet Elementary School fifth grade students celebrated their moving up day. We thank our fifth grade teachers, PTO, and all those who put together this memorable celebration. We wish our Fifth Graders a wonderful summer and all the best in middle school.

Submitted by Maria Guzda

 

 

Strawberry Hill’s Odyssey of the Mind Team Heads to World Finals!

After winning first place at the Connecticut Odyssey of the Mind competition, a team of seven sixth graders from Strawberry Hill qualified for the Odyssey of the Minds World Finals at Michigan State University. There, they performed their creative, original skit as well as used their problem solving and critical thinking skills to solve spontaneous problems. From pin trading with students from all over the world to trying different cuisines in a college dining hall, this was an experience that they’ll never forget!

Submitted by Tressa Kinahan

 

Fifth Grade Dance

KT Murphy’s Fifth Grade End-of-Year Dance was a joyful celebration marking the end of an important chapter for students. The school gym was transformed into a festive, themed dance hall complete with colorful decorations and a popular photo booth that students loved. With music filling the air, students danced, laughed, and enjoyed delicious food with their classmates. It was a fun-filled evening where friendships were celebrated. A big shout out to the KT Murphy staff, PTO, and Ms. O’Hagan for organizing another unforgettable event and keeping the cherished KT Murphy end-of-year tradition alive!

Submitted by Brendan Fox

 

Toquam’s Annual Fifth Grade vs. Staff Kickball Game Kicks Off!

Team TOQUAM! What an epic all school kickball game! Our fifth graders and staff played hard for 4 innings of kickball….but the winners…and STILL reigning defending champions Toquam FIFTH GRADE! Thank you to all who joined in the fun and a special thanks to our fourth graders in Ms. Leggiadro’s class for leading our all school 3rd inning dance stretch -the Macarena! Amazing day for all!

Submitted by Jenna Cinelli

 

Principal Lisa Saba-Price Honored as Local Empowerer!

On Saturday, May 31, Principal Lisa Saba-Price of Westover Magnet School received a well-deserved honor as the Local Empowerers Honoree at “Keys to Empowerment - A Dueling Piano Charity Night.” Held at the scenic Ponus Yacht Club in Stamford, this event celebrates educators who profoundly impact their students and champion mental health in their communities.

 

Hosted by Ready to Empower (RTE), the evening highlighted the essential role educators play in shaping not just minds, but also the well-being of their students. Principal Saba-Price truly embodies this, going above and beyond in education, while serving as a passionate advocate for mental health. Westover Magnet recently became a Choose Love certified school, a testament to her dedication, and Principal Saba-Price herself was named Connecticut’s Choose Love Ambassador.

 

Surrounded by loving family, friends, and colleagues—including Superintendent Dr. Lucero and Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Asaro—Principal Saba-Price delivered an inspiring and touching speech. She humbly shared that this accomplishment was a collective achievement for Westover, acknowledging everyone who has supported the Choose Love initiative.

 

Congratulations, Principal Saba-Price, and thank you for all you do to uplift and empower the Westover school community!

 

Westover Celebrates “Have A Lot of Fun Day”

Westover’s third annual “Have A Lot of Fun Day” on Friday, May 30, brought the entire school community together for a day of joy and connection, all while celebrating Choosing Love.

 

The morning was packed with traditional field day activities. Students gave their all in tug-of-war, showcased their speed in the 50-yard dash, and navigated a variety of other activities. It was wonderful to see dozens of parents cheering on our students!

 

The afternoon transitioned into a culmination of a year of social-emotional learning. Students participated in meaningful “Choose Love” activities in their classrooms, solidifying the lessons learned throughout the year.

 

This incredible day wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of many. A huge shout-out to the entire Choose Love Committee for their planning, especially Jessica Bucket, the Committee Chair, for her exceptional leadership. We’re also grateful to James Hart and Brian Halibozek for their help with organizing, setting up, and taking down the field day activities. A sincere thanks to all our APS teachers, support staff, and additional staff who ran stations, making the day so engaging for everyone. Finally, we appreciate our PTO volunteers and parents who generously supported the event and participated in the fun!

 

A Night of Music at Westover!

Westover’s auditorium was buzzing with excitement on Wednesday, June 4, as students, staff, and families gathered for a spectacular spring concert. The air was filled with music performed by our impressive fourth-grade chorus and the talented fourth, fifth, and sixth-grade band and orchestra.

 

During the day, all Westover students and staff were treated to a special preview, and in the evening, the auditorium filled with proud families eager to cheer on their young musicians. The audience was captivated by the band’s rendition of the iconic Star Wars “Imperial March.” Many sang along as the orchestra played classics like “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The choir brought the house down with their energetic performance of Walk off the Earth’s “Bet on Me” and the inspiring hit “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman.

 

A huge thank you to Westover’s dedicated music teachers—Jennifer Macklin (Chorus Director), Brian Ditchella (Band Director), and David Jones (Orchestra Director)—for their passion and commitment to nurturing our students’ musical talents and enriching the arts at Westover!

Submitted by Larissa Weir

 

The Anchor Post Newsletter

Shoutout to Ms. Nowlin and her students for publishing Anchor’s first-ever Community Newsletter – The Anchor Post. Students in her Multicultural Voices, Journalism, and Web Newspaper classes showcased their creativity and perspectives through original poetry, prose, and feature writing. They also conducted interviews with staff to highlight the individuals who shape our school community. The Newsletter not only promotes student voices but also strengthens connections within our Anchor family. Well done to everyone involved!

 

2024 - 2025 Anchor Yearbook

A shout-out to ELA teacher Ashley Johnson and art teacher Melissa Nesbitt for creating Anchor's 2024-2025 yearbook. What a fantastic job! Thank you for capturing and memorializing the wonderful experiences we provided for our students and transforming them into a book they can cherish. To the entire Anchor community, thank you for your participation in this project. 

Submitted by Sid Watson

 

After School Titans Celebrate!

The After-School Titans program ended the year with its annual Luau Family Night. We had over 150 students and families who attended the event; they didn’t let the rain stop the AST annual tradition. We celebrated the end of the year with the Reddi Rooster Food Truck and the Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck. The night was filled with games and prizes and then performances from AST Hip Hop, Drill, and Poetry Slam. Families enjoyed the night and look forward to upcoming family events. We even had parents of graduating students ask if they can still come to Family Night after they leave Turn of River!

Submitted by Patty Woods & Mark Bonasera

 

What is an SPS Shout Out?

An SPS Shout Out is a special recognition that acknowledges school communities, staff members or students who have inspired us with a unique project, an outstanding job or a special effort that had a positive impact on our students or community.  Each week we will celebrate a few by sharing with all SPS staff and posting on the district website. Please share any or all of these with your friends and families.   

SPS Administrators can submit Shout Outs for consideration through the link available in the Administrator Weekly. Please note the deadline, word limit, and photo limit. We look forward to seeing your submissions!