Thomas Dufort

The Norwich Public Schools District Improvement Plan outlines a roadmap to enable each student to reach their full potential within a rigorous, equitable, and safe teaching and learning environment. The plan emphasizes preparing students for a world of rapid change by developing their skills in inquiry, expression, critical thinking, collaboration, organization, attentiveness, perseverance, and reflection. Key strategic pillars include enhancing curriculum, instruction, and assessment; fostering a positive culture, climate, and family engagement; and optimizing systems, safety, and operations to maximize resources and achieve student and professional learning goals.

The meeting included recognition awards for staff members, including Triny Yang, Chelsea Wilbur, Danielle Stella, and Dominique Ailles, as well as a student recipient, Jennifer Lopez. Student updates covered a successful winter dance, upcoming attendance incentives, the annual food fight challenge benefiting NPS, and preparations for high school transitions for eighth graders. A new principal, Jesse Freeze, was introduced as the principal for Huntington Elementary School, bringing nearly two decades of experience in education, including roles as Dean of Climate and Culture and Acting Principal within the district. The Superintendent provided updates on the midyear audit postponement, the central office audit completion, upcoming budget expenditure committee meetings, and preschool capacity and community partnerships. Staffing updates noted the filling of a PE position at Kelly Middle School and one remaining certified staff vacancy in grade seven math. The board also planned to host a legislative breakfast.

The event was the graduation ceremony for Session 4 of the Eastern Regional Police Academy, held at Kelly Middle School. The presiding officer was Chief Wilfford Blanchett III of the Montville Police Department. Dignitaries from various law enforcement and public safety organizations were welcomed. Key segments included an invocation presented by Reverend Charles Tyrie, remarks by Commissioner Ronell A. Higgins of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, and the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates. Session 4 comprised recruits from eight agencies across Eastern Connecticut, who began training on August 1, 2025. Awards presented included the Samuel J. Luciano Award for the highest academic average, received by Officer Ivory Ramos of the Waterford Police Department (96.58 GPA), and the Trooper First Class Anthony J. Tuscowski Award for Excellence in Training, received by Officer Ryan Cahill of the Planefield Police Department.

The meeting included the commencement of the board meeting and the pledge of allegiance. A presentation was given by the director of Global City Norwich regarding the Project Peace initiative, which included funding an award to Norwich Public School System for programs such as the loft program providing essential items, and funding for two play productions. Recognition awards were presented to Paris Branker, a school counselor for her dedication to attendance, Laura Dietrich, the district nursing supervisor, and Adam Torres Honz, a student recognized for his kindness and growth. Student essays related to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were read by students from Kelly Middle School and Teachers Memorial. Middle school happenings were reported, including updates from Kelly Middle School on a band concert, Google Pride Day, a regal ceremony, a trip to the Slater Museum, and preparation for a sneaker ball, noting a decrease in product absences. Teachers Memorial reported on the annual staff vs. students basketball game, a PJ day fundraiser, and the sixth grade winning the January attendance challenge with a resulting snow day. The meeting then recessed for pictures before reconvening to hear a presentation from representatives of Griswald High School regarding their relationship with Norwich Public Schools, their community focus including Wolverine Induction, campus features, academic programs such as dual enrollment and career preparation (including drone technology and CNA boot camp), and student community service statistics.

The meeting included recognition awards for Michelle Combmes, Renerys, Hayden Garen, Nick Murphy, Laura Tig, Steve, and Katrina. The board welcomed Dennis Slopeac back as a newly elected member. Middle school happenings from Kelly Middle School and teachers were discussed, including the Scholastic Book Fair, a new program called the coolest food group, winter sports, a Thanksgiving food drive, and Cougar pride day. Teachers Bar Middle School discussed family paint night, a PJ fundraiser, decorating giving trees, a blood drive, winter sports, a winter concert, and attendance awards. Carlen was recognized for her six years of service to the board of education. A presentation by Dr. Nate Canel from NFA covered the 2025 through 2030 master agreement and a partnership regarding eighth-grade academic credit.