District News and Announcements
Support the FFA!
Posted April 19, 2021
The plants in our two fundraisers were grown by GHS FFA students. Visit the AgSci Website for more information.
FFA Spring Sale. Bedding plants, herbs and vegetables. Online ordering from April 30–May 13. (Link will be added.) Contactless pick up May 7, 8, 14 & 15.
FFA Mother's Day Plant Sale. May 8 from 9 am to 1 pm. In-person sales at St. Paul's Church, 2577 Main Street. Four inch pots are $5 and six inch pots are $10 or 2 for $15.
Board Votes on Final 2021-22 Budget
Posted April 6, 2021
On April 5, 2021, the Board of Education voted on the final education budget for the 2021-2022 school year. The Board's originally projected budget from January was reduced by the Town Council in March and several accounts were adjusted to reflect updated cost projections. The final budget of $113,549,684 is a 1.61% increase over the current year's education budget.
The Board reduced areas that would not directly impact student instruction. The most significant budget adjustments were made in the areas of the health insurance reserve fund, utilities, and elementary and secondary supplies.
The Board monitors class sizes throughout the spring and summer. They will make any necessary staffing adjustments to accommodate enrollment. More information about the school budget can be found on the BOE Budget page.
Town Council Adopts Final Education Budget
Posted March 24, 2021
On March 23rd the Town Council voted to adopt the final education budget for the coming year. We will need to identify $517,721 in reductions to the Board of Education budget that was approved in January. In addition, the Board will need to cut additional funds to cover $182,279 in revised pension obligations. We will look for areas to reduce that least impact student learning. Reductions to the budget will be on a future Board of Education agenda. The BOE Budget webpage provides budget documents and additional information on the budget process.
Student Travel Protocols
Updated March 23, 2021 Posted November 5, 2020
Our student travel protocols remain in place (this includes all out of state and international travel). Prior notice of student travel is required and proof of a negative test upon return will also be required.
Please refer to the following information regarding Glastonbury Public School protocols for student travel.
Change in GWS, SMS and GHS School Operations
Posted March 10, 2021
We are TENTATIVELY planning to return students in grades 6–12 to full-time in-building learning 5 days a week at Gideon Welles, Smith Middle and Glastonbury High School starting immediately after Spring Recess on Monday, April 19, 2021. Parents will have the option to commit to either in-building learning or all eLearning (Plan A) for their grade 6–12 children. There will no longer be a 2-day in-building option. Parents will commit for the remainder of the school year. There will be no switching between in-building and eLearning for the remainder of the year. Elementary schools will continue operating under Plan A as they have been all school year.
The return to in-building learning is contingent on a continued low rate of infection in our state, town, and schools. We will continue to watch if the new strains of COVID-19 cause an uptick in infections. If necessary, we will change these plans.
GHS Drama Club Presents…a FREE Drive-in Event!
Posted February 19, 2021
March 5 and 6 at 7:00 pm
The GHS Drama Club will present “Thriller on the Air Radio Play” Listen Live programming in the GHS Senior Parking Lot.
On Friday, March 5th you can hear The Hitchhiker and Sorry, Wrong Number both by Lucille Fletcher. On Saturday, March 6th you can hear The 39 Steps by Alfred Hitchcock, adapted by Joe Landry. These shows are FREE and are appropriate for those 13 year old and up. “Doors” open at 6:30 pm both nights. Join us for this drive-in radio experience!
Board of Finance Recommends Education Cut
Posted February 19, 2021
The Board of Finance has recommended a $317,721 cut to the Board of Education approved budget for next school year. This recommendation does not include a recently revised pension increase of approximately $182,279 which will further reduce the Board budget. The Town Council will discuss and vote on the final education budget on March 17 and/or March 23 at 7:00 pm.
To view budget documents and confirm upcoming meetings, please visit the BOE Budget page of our website.
Summer Enrichment Camps
Posted February 19, 2021
School staff members will be offering a variety of summer camp programs for students in June, July and August. Because these camps are tuition based, there is no cost to the Board of Education. Please visit the Summer Camps page of our website to learn about the camps and to register.
Virtual Calendar Art Exhibit
Posted January25, 2021
At their January 25, 2021 meeting, the Board of Education celebrated our student artists who contributed to this year's district art calendar. Click here to enjoy the Virtual Calendar Art Gallery.
Board Approves Next Year's Budget
Posted January 12, 2021
At their January 11, 2021 meeting, the Board of Education voted to adopt a $114,067,405 education budget for the 2021-2022 school year. This is an increase of 2.07% to the current operating budget. It is the lowest percent request in a Board approved budget in 29 years. Board members reduced Superintendent Bookman's proposed budget by $455,225. Reduced areas included athletic uniforms, new and replacement equipment, and fringe benefits.
The Board budget will be presented, along with the Town of Glastonbury budget, during the Annual Town Meeting on January 27 at 7 pm (held via Zoom conference). Next, the Board of Education will meet with the Board of Finance and the Town Council to discuss the education budget. The Town Council will vote on the final budget later in March.
To view budget documents and confirm upcoming meetings, please visit the BOE Budget page of our website.
Registration for Kindergarten
Posted January 4, 2021
The kindergarten registration process is now fully online. Please complete the registration for your child(ren) as soon as possible by visiting our Kindergarten Registration website.
BOE Budget Workshops
Posted January 2, 2021
Glastonbury citizens are encouraged to attend the Board of Education’s upcoming budget workshops and learn about the budget process. Budget workshops will be held on January 4, 5, and 6, 2021 at 6:00 pm via Zoom video conference. Access information will be posted on our BOE Meetings webpage.
The Board plans to vote on the education budget at their January 11, 2021 meeting at 7 pm, which will also be held via Zoom conference. To view budget documents and confirm upcoming budget meetings, please visit the BOE Budget page of our website.
Snow Days will alternate between eLearning days and closing schools
Posted January 2, 2021
We recently surveyed parents and staff to determine their preference for snow days during the 2020-2021 school year. The options were to hold eLearning days with all students learning from home on inclement whether days or to cancel school and add days to the end of the school year (except for grade 12).
There was no clear preference so we have decided to alternate the two options.
If there are widespread power/internet outages impacting teachers and students, we will not have a remote learning day. Instead, we will close school for the day and it will be made up at the end of the school year (except for grade 12). In-person extra-curricular activities will be cancelled, unless road conditions improve enough to hold the activity.
Switch to ALL eLearning for Five Days
Posted December 14. 2020
Due to staffing issues across our district, Glastonbury Public Schools will switch to full eLearning (Plan C) for 5 school days starting Thursday, December 17 through the end of the holiday recess. This applies to all schools, all classes, and all grades.
School offices will remain open during this time. (Because inclement weather is forecast for Thursday, it is possible that school buildings could be closed on this particular day.) After-school activities are canceled during this period, unless they take place virtually.
Important notes:
We intend to reopen our buildings on Monday, January 4, following the holiday recess. We will be closely following student and staff COVID cases, quarantines, and staffing numbers throughout the break to ensure that it is safe to reopen and that we have the necessary staff. We will send further communication about this as the date approaches.
It is critical that parents continue reporting COVID-19 cases and quarantines to their school principals during the coming weeks. We need this information to ensure a safe reopening.
We expect this temporary change in school operations might prompt concern and anxiety for some and, perhaps, relief for others. We understand this may be especially difficult for parents who work outside the home and who have young children in need of supervision. Our decision was made with the health and safety interest of students across the district in mind. We hope that providing a few days notice will help children and parents to plan ahead for the smoothest transition possible
Butterfly Intentions
Posted November 23, 2020
"Renew and Reimagine" is our theme for this school year. We invited art students and staff members in all our buildings to create colorful origami and paper butterflies. The butterflies represent the changes and adaptations of the past year, as well as the resilience we've all needed to help us through.
Participants wrote their positive intentions for the year inside their paper butterflies. Then our art teachers installed the artwork into a stunning display in the breezeway at Glastonbury High School.
The video linked below, created by Director of Art Holly Constantine, highlights the project.
We also invite you to drive under the GHS breezeway (entrance "C") and look up to see the beautiful butterflies inside.
Butterfly Intentions installation at Glastonbury High School
FREE School Meals
Posted November 10, 2020
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended approval for Glastonbury Schools to continue providing FREE meals to all students and residents 18 years or younger through June 30, 2021. We offer these meals in all schools for in-school learners and at the grab-and-go meal sites (Glastonbury High School and Smith Middle School) for remote learners and any other children 18 years or younger. More information is available on our Foods Services website
Districtwide COVID-19 Update
Posted November 9, 2020
At this time we are continuing to operate our schools under the current Hybrid Plan B. There has been a notable uptick in positive COVID-19 cases in our state in the last few weeks. Glastonbury Public Schools also saw an uptick in cases during the last week. Contact tracing continues to indicate that these exposures are occurring outside of our schools. Contact tracing also indicates that these cases are mostly the result of contact with household members as well as extended family members (e.g. uncles, aunts, cousins) and friends visiting the home. A large majority of student quarantines at this time are a result of non-school activities, primarily youth sports groups.
We ask that everyone be prepared in the event we decide to send a school or the entire district home for eLearning. It is possible this decision could be made quickly, with little advance notice. Again, we have no plans to switch to Plan C (all eLearning) at this time. We just wish everyone to be prepared.
We are carefully monitoring the spread of the virus in our state and our community. We remain cautious and urge everyone to please follow state guidelines for health practices including wearing masks, washing hands, keeping socially distant, and limiting gatherings with those outside your household. Student and staff member health and safety remains our priority.
Please visit our COVID-19 Resources/Dashboard page for more information.
Snow Days will be eLearning Days
Posted October 28, 2020
During the 2020-2021 school year, normal "snow days" will now be eLearning days. On inclement weather days, students will connect with their teachers and classes from home, using the internet. We will notify families of an inclement weather eLearning day as soon as possible so that they may be prepared.
If there are widespread power/internet outages impacting teachers and students, we will not have a remote learning day. Instead, we will close school for the day and it will be made up at the end of the school year (except for GHS Seniors). In-person extra-curricular activities will be cancelled, unless road conditions improve enough to hold the activity.
Glastonbury School District Excels in State and National Niche Rankings
Posted October 22, 2020
Once again this year, Niche has ranked Glastonbury Public Schools highly compared to other school districts in the state of Connecticut and the nation. Please click below to learn more. Congratulations to our school staff for earning these impressive distinctions!
#1 Safest School District in CT (#36 in America)
#1 Best School District for Athletes in CT (#3 in America)
No Plan to Change Our Current Learning Model
Posted September 28, 2020
We have begun to receive questions regarding future plans for learning. At this time we have no plans to change our current learning model (Hybrid Plan B). Overall our reopening plan appears to have worked well.
We are watching carefully as some local schools have had to close for a few days or a couple of weeks due to the spread of COVID-19. Meanwhile, some districts are preparing to open secondary schools five days a week in the coming month. We will continue to monitor these communities, especially those with large high schools like ours, as we regularly evaluate our learning plan. We will also be cautious about changing plans as cooler weather and the flu season approach.
While we have no set date to transition to Plan A (full-time in-school classes for all grades), we would provide parents, students, and staff with 1-2 weeks notice before making such a change. A transition to Plan C (eLearning for all grades), on the other hand, could be made quickly if needed to protect the health and safety of our community.
For more information, please visit our School Reopening and COVID-19 web pages.
Lieutenant Governor Visits Early Learning Center
Posted September 16, 2020
Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz recently visited the district's Early Learning Center at Eastbury to learn about our successful new program. Our state has lost tens of thousands of childcare slots since the coronavirus pandemic began. The center provides Glastonbury Public Schools teachers and Glastonbury community members with affordable, quality childcare in a safe and engaging center.
The center is self-supporting with no cost to taxpayers. Click here to learn more about the ELC at Eastbury.
Free School Meals for all Glastonbury Children
Effective Monday, September 14, 2020 through December 31, 2020 subject to USDA funding
Posted September 10, 2020
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved an extended waiver making all school meals free for every child that resides in Glastonbury. Glastonbury Public Schools will provide FREE breakfast (at those schools that offer breakfast) and FREE lunch for all children age 18 and under. This includes children who are present in school, children who are eLearning from home, and children not enrolled in our school system but residing in Glastonbury.
For those attending school in-building, there is no action required (no registration) to receive the free meals.
Parents may pick up Grab & Go meals (for children not in-building) on Monday through Friday at Smith Middle School (far left of the building) and Glastonbury High School (entrance D, garage door, far left of the building) between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. Both breakfasts and lunches will be available for pick up, but you may only pick up meals for a single day. To help with planning, please complete our eLearning Grab and Go School Meals form to indicate your expected regular pick up schedule.
Lunch options (including Grab and Go) can be found on our Nutrislice site. The Grab & Go hot option will need to be reheated at home. Breakfast options usually consist of a muffin, cereal or bagel with fruit and milk.
Note: At this time, in-school breakfast is available in all schools except Buttonball Lane, Hebron Avenue and Hopewell.
GHS Agriscience Mum Sale!
Posted September 3, 2020
To order mums: Scan the QR code with a QR reader app or your cell phone and visit our online agriscience order site. Or just click here: order online from GHS Agriscience.
Welcome to the 2020-2021 School Year
Posted August 21, 2020
The beginning of this year will certainly look and feel much different. It is likely we will all face numerous challenges, but Glastonbury Public Schools will continue to provide the best possible education to our students. Below are welcome letters from the Superintendent of Schools and the Board of Education Chair.
New Childcare Program
Posted August 12, 2020
Glastonbury Public Schools has established a new childcare center to support employees in need of quality, affordable care for their young children.
There are a few spots remaining for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and we are now opening up enrollment to the Glastonbury community.
Please visit the center's website to learn about the program, staff members, fees, registration process and more.
New First Days of School
Posted July 28, 2020
The first days of school for 2020-2021 have been changed. This will provide teachers and staff with three additional days for reopening activities, facility and classroom set-up and staff training. Training topics will include new health and safety protocols, classroom teaching strategies, video conferencing, teaching apps, and supporting student social and emotional learning.
2020-2021 First Days of School
Grades 7-12: August 31
Grades preK-6: September 1
Draft School Reopening Plan
Posted July 13, 2020 Updated July 24, 2020
During the summer of 2020 we continue to develop health and safety protocols for the reopening of schools. Our plans remain a work in progress. They are in compliance with the CT State Reopening guidelines. Please click the red button to learn more.
Equity and Social Justice
Posted July 2, 2020
Glastonbury Public Schools is actively working to ensure equity in our schools. Please visit our Equity and Social Justice webpage for more information, including action steps we are taking to promote our district’s anti-bias and anti-racism work.
Food Assistance
Posted June 25, 2020
Glastonbury Public Schools Food Service Department has been approved to continue providing free breakfast and lunch for children in need through August 17. Food assistance is available to all children 18 years old and younger.
Please visit the Food Services website for important information and details about the program.
Summer 2020 and School Reopening
Posted June 15, 2020
Schools and offices are open this summer by appointment only. If you need to visit, please call the office first to schedule an appointment. In addition, all visitors must wear a facemask to protect the health of all. There is much to do to prepare for the 2020-2021 school year. All reopening decisions will be made in compliance with the Governor’s orders. Decisions will also be made in collaboration with local and state health officials. We will reach out over the summer to parents with our plans. Whatever it looks like—whether all students return to school buildings with health and safety protocols, all students continue with a new and improved e-Learning experience, or some combination of the two, Glastonbury Public Schools will be ready.
Joint Statement
Posted June 4, 2020
On June 4, 2020, the Glastonbury Board of Education and the Glastonbury Town Council released this joint statement on racism, injustice, and discrimination.
Summer Learning
Posted May 26, 2020
We encourage students to continue learning and growing during the summer months. We are fortunate that this summer current students advancing into grades 1–12 will have a school iPad at home. We have developed a Summer Learning website (click on button) to provide a range of suggested summer learning activities.
We believe that summer learning comes in many forms. The site includes optional online activities as well as suggested activities that are decidedly “off-line.”
Thank You Retiring Educators!
Posted May 19, 2020
This video pays tribute to our 17 retiring educators for 2020. Best wishes to each of these dedicated professionals!
New Curriculum Directors
Posted May 19, 2020
We welcome three new curriculum directors who will replace retiring directors on July 1. Pictured left to right:
Holly Constantine will begin as Director of Art, replacing Cindy Parsons. Mrs. Constantinte has taught art for 18 years at all levels in Glastonbury. Her intelligence, creativity, and listening and problem-solving skills make her a perfect fit for this position.
Elizabeth Cole will replace Dr. Jill Carey as the Director of Career Technical Education. Ms. Cole has served many roles in other districts including Science Department Coordinator, STEM Supervisor, and Assistant Principal. Her work has been described as "transformational."
Jennifer Spring has been appointed Director of Health & Physical Education. She replaces Ann Marie Colebrook. Mrs. Spring taught for 13 years before serving 8 years as a Health & P.E. administrator. She is described as genuine and supportive and as a highly effective communicator.
CANCELED Summer Enrichment Camps
Posted May 6, 2020
2020 Summer Enrichment Camps have been canceled in order to protect the health and safety of students and teachers. Those who had registered will be contacted regarding reimbursement of fees.
Kindergarten Orientation
Posted April 23, 2020
Please visit our district's Kindergarten Orientation webpage to learn all about the Kindergarten year!
Note: Kindergarten Visitation Days for the Spring of 2020 are currently postponed. We hope that there may be an opportunity to reschedule these important school events later in the spring or summer. We will reach out to parents of incoming kindergarten students when, and if, kindergarten visitation is rescheduled.
Board Votes on Final 2019-2020 Budget
Posted April 7, 2020
On April 6, 2020 the Board of Education voted on the final education budget for the 2020-2021 school year. Accounts from the Board's originally projected budget from January needed to be reduced by $290,000. This was to accommodate projections that have increased since January (special education and classified staff retirement obligations). In addition, the Town Council reduced the education budget by $559,043 for a total of nearly $850,000 in reductions.
The Board targeted reductions in areas they felt would have the least impact on student instruction. The following budget lines were impacted: operations and maintenance, utilities, fuel, transportation, athletics technology, classroom equipment, technology printers, substitute teachers, and special education tuition.
In addition, the Board made the difficult decision not to hire two elementary library media specialists to fill the positions of two librarians who are retiring in June. Next school year, each elementary school library will remain open five days a week. However, two of those days the library will be staffed by a full-time paraprofessional. Our elementary library media specialists will each be covering more than one elementary school.
The Board monitors class sizes throughout the spring and summer. They will make any necessary staffing adjustments to accommodate enrollment. More information about the school budget can be found on the BOE Budget page.
School Closing
Posted March 12, 2020
Updated March 24, 2020 and April 23, 2020
In order to protect the health of our students, staff, parents, and community from the coronavirus pandemic all Glastonbury Public Schools are closed through at least April 20. This includes all school related events including athletics. During this time, buildings will be locked and inaccessible to the public. Students will be engaged in e-Learning during the school closure. We will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and will keep you informed. Please click below for more information.
Town Council Votes on Final Budget
Posted March 9, 2020
Updated March 13, 2020
On March 5th the Town Council voted to adopt the final education budget for the coming year. We will need to identify $559,043 in reductions to the budget we approved in January. In addition, the Board will need to cut additional funds to cover over $200,000 of recently revised pension obligations.
We will look for areas to reduce that least impact student learning. Reductions to the budget will be on a future Board of Education agenda.
The BOE Budget webpage provides budget documents and additional information on the budget process and upcoming meetings.
Coronavirus Information
Posted March 4, 2020
We have received a number of inquiries about our school system's preparation in the event that the coronavirus affects our community. The health and well-being of our students and staff are of utmost importance to us. Please click our new webpage below for information about our preparations and a variety of resources we hope you find helpful.
Board of Finance Recommends Education Cut
Posted February 14, 2020
Updated March 2, 2020
The Board of Finance has recommended an $884,043 cut to the Board of Education approved budget for next school year. This recommendation does not include a recently revised pension budget increase of approximately $263,000. The Town Council will discuss and vote on the final education budget on March 5 at 7:00 pm in Town Hall Town Council Chambers.
The Board of Education encourages citizens to review the education budget and the challenges our schools face. The BOE Budget webpage provides budget documents and additional information on the budget process and upcoming meetings.
Girls Indoor Track & Field 2020 State LL and State Open Champions!
Posted February 14, 2020
Updated February 24, 2020
Congratulations to the Girls Indoor Track & Field Team for winning the 2020 Connecticut State Class LL Championship AND the 2020 Connecticut State Open! This is their 4th Class LL title in the last decade and their first State Open title since 2011.
Summer Enrichment Camps
Posted February 13, 2020
School staff members will be offering a variety of summer camp programs for students in June, July and August. Because these camps are tuition based, there is no cost to the Board of Education. Please visit the Summer Camps page of our website to learn about the camps and to register. A limited number of program brochures are also available in school offices and the district's central office.
GHS Musical
Posted February 10, 2020
Updated March 11, 2020
NOTE: The March 13 and 14 show dates have been postponed in order to protect our community from the spread of coronavirus. It is possible they may be rescheduled later this year.
The Glastonbury High School Drama Club and Music Departments invite you to their production of Mamma Mia! this March. This long-running Broadway musical features the music of Swedish pop/dance group ABBA. Show dates are March 6, 7, and 8 (Sunday matinee), 13, and 14. Evening performances start at 7:00 pm. The Sunday matinee is at 2:00 pm. Doors open a half hour before each performance. Tickets are available for purchase online. Just click here to purchase. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. For more information, please call 860-652-7200 x11032.
Student Calendar Artists
Posted January 31, 2020
Our student calendar artists were recently recognized at a Board of Education meeting and reception. The calendars hang in thousands of homes across Glastonbury. The students' artwork is also on display at the Glastonbury Town Hall Gallery through April.
Introducing Nutrislice!
Posted January 27, 2020
Glastonbury Public Schools is pleased to introduce Nutrislice, an interactive school lunch menu program. Nutrislice offers parents, students, and staff easy-to-use features for reviewing nutrition and allergen information for the foods we serve at lunch. Visit our school menus webpage to learn more. Or, click here to go directly to the Glastonbury Public Schools Nutrislice website.
Kindergarten Registration
Posted January 3, 2020
Any child who will be five years of age on or before January 1, 2021 and meets all residency requirements is eligible to begin kindergarten at the start of the 2020-2021 school year.
A letter will be sent in January to parents/guardians of all potential students of whom our district is aware. The letter includes instructions for our registration process. After pre-registering students online, parents/guardians will be prompted to schedule a brief session with our registrar at the central office. Families will need to bring the necessary documents for the registrar to scan. This will complete the registration process.
Please complete the online pre-registration for your kindergarten student as soon as possible. Appointments with the registrar are available on days school is in session. Visit the Kindergarten Registration website for more information.
State Champs Again!
Posted November 25, 2019
Congratulations to the Glastonbury High School Girls Soccer Team on winning the Connecticut State Class LL State Championship. This is the team's 4th state championship in the last 6 years!
Thanksgiving Recess Dismissal
Posted November 25, 2019
Please click here for Wednesday, November 27th dismissal times by school.
BOE Budget Workshops
Posted November 18, 2019, Updated January 7, 2020
UPDATE: The January 8, 2020 Budget Workshop has been cancelled.
Glastonbury citizens are encouraged to attend the Board of Education’s upcoming budget workshops and learn about the budget process. Budget workshops will be held on January 6, 7, and 8, 2020 at 6:00 pm in the Town Hall Town Council Chambers. The Board plans to vote on the education budget at their January 9, 2020 meeting at 7:30 pm in Town Hall Town Council Chambers. To view budget documents and confirm upcoming budget meetings, please visit the BOE Budget page of our website.
District Receives Awards
Updated November 18, 2019
Board of Distinction
Congratulations to the members of the Glastonbury Board of Education who were recognized with a 2019 Board of Distinction Award by the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE). This award is based on several criteria that include: supporting the appropriate use of technology in education, incorporating professional development into policy, and working closely with local legislators to improve schools. Our volunteer Board members dedicate countless hours to lead our school system. This award is well deserved.
Communications
The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) recently honored Glastonbury Public Schools with several Bonnie B. Carney Awards of Excellence for Educational Communications. We were recognized for the district’s Art School Calendar, the district’s Website, and the Glastonbury High School Morning Show. We also received an honorable mention for the district’s 2019-2020 Budget Document.
Athletics
The Glastonbury Schools Athletic Department has been recognized with a Quality Program Award—Exemplary Level by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). This award recognizes the outstanding quality of our athletic policies, practices, and procedures and our commitment to continuous improvement.
Veterans Day at Glastonbury Schools
Updated November 13, 2019
We are grateful for the dedicated efforts of staff and volunteers in providing meaningful learning experiences for students on Veterans Day. We appreciate all those who joined us in celebrating those who served our country.
The GHS Drama Club Presents...
Posted October 28, 2019
The Glastonbury High School Drama Club will present Almost Maine in the GHS auditorium on November 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 7:00 pm. Open to the public! Almost Maine is a comedy comprised of a dozen mini-plays exploring themes of love and joy and loss and pain. Just click here to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. Doors open at 6:30 pm. For more information, please call 860-652-7200 x11032.
International Night—Open to the Public!
Posted October 24, 2019
Please join us November 7, 2019 at Smith Middle School from 6 to 8 pm for an evening of student work samples, cultural performances, food tasting and other language learning activities. This event is hosted by the Foreign Language and English Language Learners Department.
I Night Poster.pdf
Technology Staff Honored
Posted October 24, 2019
The Board of Education honored Coordinator of Multimedia Services Chris Merisotis and Multi-Media Support Specialist Tony Woods at a recent meeting. Chris and Tony have had a lasting impact on the Glastonbury High School culture and on the entire district. The Board recognizes their talent, knowledge, leadership, commitment, and, perhaps most importantly, their mentorship of students interested in media.
Teacher of the Year Receives National Recognition
Posted October 16, 2019
Ms. Diane Pintavalle has been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This is the nation's highest honor for teachers in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and/or computer science fields. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education. Ms. Pintavalle is our third recipient of the PAEMST award in the last five years. Click here for her PAEMST award biography. Ms. Pintavalle is also this year's Teacher of the Year for Glastonbury Public Schools and she was selected as a CT State Teacher of the Year Semifinalist.
Thank You, Greg Foran!
Posted October 11, 2019
Greg Foran, Glastonbury Park Superintendent and Tree Warden, was recently honored by the Board of Education. The Board recognized him for his partnership with our school system and for always going above and beyond in maintaining and improving our grounds and playing fields.
Graduation Date Set for June 10, 2020
Posted September 26, 2019
The State of Connecticut has passed a new law regarding school attendance. Boards of Education can now allow high school seniors to graduate on a set date without needing to make-up inclement weather days (or other unforeseen school closings). The Glastonbury Board of Education has set the Class of 2020 Graduation date for June 10, 2020. The graduation date will not be adjusted based on "snow" days. We hope this helps our families with travel and celebration planning.
Note: The last day of school for other grade levels will continue to be extended due to school closings for weather and other emergencies.
GEF Fundraising Gala
Posted September 25, 2019
The Glastonbury Education Foundation (GEF) has contributed over $800,000 to Glastonbury schools and the local community in the past 15 years.
The GEF's annual fundraising gala will be held on Friday, November 22, 2019 at the Glastonbury Hills Country Club. The evening features a social hour, dinner, dancing and a silent auction featuring mobile bidding.
For information about tickets and donating items for the silent auction, please visit the GEF Gala website. More information about the foundation can also be found here: GEF website.
Language Teacher Honored
Posted September 25, 2019
Glastonbury Public Schools Chinese Teacher Meiching Chang has been selected as the Connecticut Council of Language Teachers (COLT) 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year. COLT recognizes best practices and excellence in foreign language teaching across the state.
Glastonbury Public Schools Announces Teacher of the Year 2019-2020!
Posted August 27, 2019
Congratulations to Ms. Diane Pintavalle, the Glastonbury Public Schools 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year! Ms. Pintavalle began her teaching career 30 years ago as a science teacher at Glastonbury High School. She has had a measurable and profound impact on biology and advanced research mentorship students every year since. Ms. Pintavalle was also selected as a CT State Teacher of the year Semifinalist!
Welcome to the 2019-2020 School Year
Posted August 23, 2019
Glastonbury Public Schools is excited to welcome everyone to the new school year. We have been working hard preparing an exciting year of learning for your children. Below are welcome letters from the Superintendent of Schools and the Board of Education Chairman.
Glastonbury School District Excels in Area, State, and National Niche Rankings
Posted August 7, 2019
Niche has ranked Glastonbury Public Schools highly compared to other school districts in the Hartford area, the state of Connecticut, and the nation. Please click below to learn more. Congratulations to all our school staff for earning these impressive distinctions!
Best School Districts in the Hartford Area (#1)
Best School Districts in Connecticut (#3)
New Administrators
Posted August 5, 2019
Mrs. Kimberly Brown started her new position as Director of Special Education on July 1. Last school year she served as the Assistant Principal/Special Education Supervisor at Hebron Avenue Elementary School. Prior to that, Mrs. Brown worked in Clinton for fourteen years as an elementary school psychologist and early childhood program director.
Mrs. Andrea Kirby is the new Assistant Principal/Special Education Supervisor for Nayaug Elementary School. She replaces John Szalkiewicz, who now serves the same role at Hebron Avenue Elementary School. Mrs. Kirby has worked as a special education teacher in both Weston and Regional District 15. She also served as Supervisor of Special Services in Redding.
Mrs. Kerin Heemsoth joins the leadership team at LINKS Academy and the special education preschool program. Her role will be split as she serves as a part-time administrator and part-time school psychologist. Previously, Mrs. Heemsoth worked in Glastonbury as a school psychologist at Naubuc Elementary School. More recently, she worked as a Pupil Personnel Supervisor at multiple schools in Manchester.
SOS—Signs of Suicide
Posted July 15, 2019
Our schools use Signs of Suicide (SOS) to teach suicide prevention to students. This portal is designed to provide parents with information about our suicide prevention efforts and helpful tools for supporting your child’s mental health. Click the button to learn more. There is a link for parents.
Summer Reading and Summer Math
Posted June 11, 2019
Glastonbury Public Schools asks all students in grades 1-12 to participate in our summer reading program. We have also developed math activities to help students maintain and strengthen their mathematics skills over the summer months. Please visit our Summer and Independent Reading and Summer Math websites to help guide and inform students at each grade level.
Glastonbury Public Schools Receives Red, White, And Blue Schools Award!
Posted June 7, 2019
Glastonbury Public Schools was one of only five districts in the state to be honored this year by the Red, White & Blue Schools program.
This program promotes the importance of student civic involvement. The theme for 2018 was “Exploring our Historical Roots” and Glastonbury's application focused on our tremendous partnership with the Glastonbury Historical Society.
Secretary Merrill presented the award to Ilene Viner, the Director of History and Social Sciences. This is the second year in a row that Glastonbury has received this special recognition.
Summer Meals
Posted May 24, 2019
Childhood food insecurity remains at unacceptable levels across the country. Children are most acutely at risk in the summer when they do not have access to school meals. Children ages 18 and younger may visit Open Summer Meals sites anywhere in the state to receive a meal. There is no application, identification or commitment to participate in Summer Meals.
End of the Year Dismissal
Posted May 17, 2019
Please click here for the end of the year dismissal schedule by school.
GHS Stemposium
Posted May 6, 2019
All students in grades 6-12 are invited to attend Glastonbury High School’s 6th annual STEMposium scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, 2019 from 3:30–6:00 pm at GHS. The program is designed and presented by GHS's Advanced Research Mentorship students to inspire interest in and awareness of opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
GHS Art Show
Posted April 30, 2019
Wednesday May 29, 2019
Open to the Public from 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm.
Animation, ceramics, computer art, crafts, film and video, digital artwork, design, drawing, painting, and sculpture.
Please join us! For more information call 860-652-7954.
GHS Plant Sale
Posted April 30, 2019
We are a the one-stop-shop of locally produced hardened-off plants you’ll need for the year! Heirloom Tomatoes, new varieties of Eastern European berries, and many varieties of vegetable starts, seeds and and bedding plants are all available for purchase. This sale benefits the Glastonbury FFA. Please stop by the greenhouse in the back of Glastonbury High School Monday to Friday 8:30 am–3:00 pm, May 1 to May 17. If you have any questions, please call (860) 652-7200 x 11011 or email Lucien Bouffard at bouffardl@glastonburyus.org.
Board Votes on Final 2019-2020 Budget
Posted April 9, 2019
On April 8, 2019 the Board of Education voted on the final education budget for next school year. Accounts from the Board's originally projected budget from January needed to be reduced by $570,000. This was to accommodate projections that have increased since January (e.g., increases to electricity, natural gas, and special education). In addition, the Town Council reduced the budget by $459,052, for a total of nearly $1.3 million in reductions.
The Board chose to reduce areas they felt would impact student instruction the least. The following budget lines were chiefly impacted: transportation (one fewer bus), operations and maintenance, education and technology supplies, paraprofessional staff, and two high school teachers.
The Board monitors class sizes throughout the spring and summer. They will make any necessary adjustments to accommodate enrollment. More information about the school budget can be found on the BOE Budget page.
Vaping 101: Parents We Have a Problem
Posted April 5, 2019
On April 3, 2019 the Glastonbury PTSO hosted a Citizen's Academy Forum "Vaping 101: Parents We Have a Problem." The event was videotaped and can be found on the PTSO website. The video includes a discussion on vaping by three Connecticut doctors, two GHS students, a local police officer, the school superintendent, three school principals, a school social worker, and a state congresswoman. There was also a question and answer session with the audience. We encourage you to watch and learn.
Dr. Bookman to be Inducted into Hall of Honor
Posted April 2, 2019
This April, Glastonbury Public Schools Superintendent Alan B. Bookman will be inducted into the Hall of Honor of the Connecticut Association of Schools-Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CAS-CIAC). Recipients of this award are chosen for their significant and outstanding contributions to the CAS-CIAC organization over the course of their careers. Click here for more information about the 2019 Hall of Honor Honorees.
GHS Agriscience Spring Fair
Posted March 29, 2019
The Glastonbury Regional Agriscience & Technology Program is hosting the annual Spring Fair. This is a FREE event that is open to the public and appropriate for children of all ages. A variety of companion and farm animals, plants, tractors, and exciting activities will be available. Please review the schedule and RSVP accordingly by April 23rd to Patti Callahan, (860) 652-7200 x11101, CallahanP@Glastonburyus.org.
Thursday, May 2: Program for elementary/nursery/pre-school students. Various tours scheduled from 8:30 am –12:00 pm. Please call to reserve a tour.
Friday, May 3: Program for seventh graders and GHS classes during school hours. Please call to reserve a tour.
Friday, May 3: Community members and program families are welcome to join us after-school from 2:30–6pm!
Town Council Adopts Final Education Budget
Posted March 22, 2019
On March 21, 2019 the Town Council voted to adopt the final education budget for the coming year (2019-2020). The Board of Education will need to identify $459,052 in reductions to the budget they approved in January. These reductions will be on the agenda of the Board of Education meeting on April 8, 2019 at 7:30 pm.
To view budget documents and learn more, please visit the BOE Budget page.
New Administrators
Posted March 12, 2019
Mary Poisson, Director of Elementary Language Arts
In July, Mrs. Mary Poisson will begin work as our Director of Elementary Language Arts, replacing Dr. Joanne St. Peter, who is retiring. Mrs. Poisson served as an elementary principal in Wallingford for three years. Prior to that, she was the assistant principal at Naubuc School for two years. We are confident Mrs. Poisson’s skills will help us continue developing our outstanding elementary language arts curriculum. Welcome back to Glastonbury, Mrs. Poisson!
Brenda Gregorski, Director of Mathematics K-12
Mrs. Brenda Gregorski will serve as our new Director of Mathematics, replacing Caroline Quinn-Alger who is retiring this July. Mrs. Gregorski began her career teaching math at Glastonbury High School. She has served as the head math teacher for the past 11 years. Mrs. Gregorski is highly respected by students, staff, and parents alike. We are so fortunate to have one talented leader following another.
Board of Finance Recommends Education Cut
Posted February 26, 2019
The Board of Finance has recommended a $1.15 million cut to the Board of Education budget for next school year. The Town Council will vote on the final education budget on March 21 at 7 pm. The Board of Education encourages citizens to review the education budget and the challenges our schools face. To view budget documents, learn about the school budget process, and confirm upcoming budget meetings, please visit the BOE Budget page.
Summer Camps 2019
Posted February 26, 2019
School staff members will be offering a variety of summer camp programs for students. Because these camps are tuition based, there is no cost to the Board of Education.
For a complete listing of summer enrichment opportunities, please visit our Summer Camps website. Program brochures are also available at the Glastonbury Public Schools Central Operations office, 628 Hebron Avenue.
New Administrator
Posted February 14, 2019
Mrs. Emily Muro-Trexler has been appointed Assistant Principal/Special Education Supervisor at Hopewell Elementary School. She replaces Karen Brown who has retired. Mrs. Muro-Trexler has served since 2016 as a PACE Teacher at Naubuc School. She also has experience as an instructional coach at EASTCONN and as a special education teacher in Windsor and Vernon. Mrs. Muro-Trexler is highly regarded for her passion for education and her expertise in curriculum and learning strategies.
Tickets on Sale Now for GHS Musical: Guys & Dolls
Posted February 11, 2019
The Glastonbury High School Drama Club and Music Department invite you to their production of Guys & Dolls this March! This classic Tony-Award-winning Broadway romantic comedy will take the audience from New York’s Time Square to Havana, Cuba and back. Show dates are March 1, 2, and 3 (Sunday matinee), 8, and 9. Evening performances start at 7:00 pm. The Sunday matinee is at 2:00 pm. Doors open a half hour before each performance. Tickets will be available for purchase online starting early February. Just click here to purchase. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
For more information, please call 860-652-7200 x11032.
Kindergarten Registration
Posted January 8, 2019
Any child who will be five years of age on or before January 1, 2020 and meets all residency requirements is eligible to begin kindergarten at the start of the 2019-2020 school year. A letter will be mailed in January to all potential students of whom our district is aware. The letter includes instructions for our registration process.
After pre-registering students online, parents/guardians will be prompted to schedule a brief session with our registrar at the central office. Families will need to bring the necessary documents for the registrar to scan. This will complete the registration process. Please complete the online pre-registration for your kindergarten student as soon as possible. Appointments with the registrar are available starting January 2nd. Visit the Kindergarten Registration website for more information.
Board Approves Next Year's Budget
Posted January 8, 2019 Updated February 14, 2019
At their January 7th meeting, the Board of Education voted to adopt a $109,158,898 education budget for the 2019-2020 school year. This is an increase of 3.6% to the current operating budget.
During the coming weeks the Board of Education will meet with the Board of Finance and the Town Council to discuss the education budget. The Town Council will vote on the final budget later in March. The BOE Budget page of our website provides more information on the budget process and upcoming meetings.
Board Approves School Calendars
Posted December 11, 2018
The Board of Education recently approved calendars for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school years. Please visit the District Calendars page of our website to review the calendars.
Glastonbury Citizens Invited to Budget Workshops
Posted November 27, 2018
The Board of Education welcomes citizen input as it prepares next year's education budget. The Board invites all citizens to its budget workshops. Workshops will be held on January 2nd, 3rd, and 4th at 6:00 pm in Town Council Chambers. At the January 7th Board of Education meeting, the Board will vote to adopt its budget for 2019-20. Please visit the BOE Budget page for information, documents, and to confirm meetings.
New Bus/Van Tracking App
Posted November 26, 2018
We recently launched the Versatrans My Stop App for parents and guardians. This program helps our transportation department in several ways. In addition, it allows parents, guardians, and students to track their buses and vans in a secure, web-based application. Please click here to learn more about the Versatrans My Stop App.
GHS Boys Soccer Wins Yet Another State Title!!
Posted November 20, 2018
Congratulations to Coach Landers and the 2018 Glastonbury High School Boys Soccer Team!
Kindess Garden
Posted November 1, 2018
Leaders of the Hopewell Kindness Rocks Garden were recently honored at a Board of Education meeting. The project was also spotlighted on the Better CT television program. See the segment below. In February, Hopewell School will host the Kindness Rocks Project founder, Megan Murphy. We are proud of the Hopewell community and how they are working to cultivate kindness!
GHS Drama Production
Posted October 23, 2018
The Glastonbury High School Drama Club will present Twelve Angry Jurors in the GHS auditorium on November 9th, 10th, 16th and 17th at 7:00 pm. Come and enjoy this updated version of the classic courtroom drama Twelve Angry Men. Watch and listen as GHS’s talented drama club “jurors” grapple with questions of morals, values, reasonable doubt, and consensus building. Tickets are $6 for students and GHS teachers, $10 for seniors, and $13 for adults. Just click here to purchase. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. Doors open at 6:30 pm. For more information, please call 860-652-7200 x11032.
District Receives Communications Awards
Posted October 17, 2018
The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) recently recognized Glastonbury Public Schools with several Bonnie B. Carney Awards of Excellence for Educational Communications. The award categories are "District Budget" (for our Board of Education's 2018-2019 Budget document), "School Calendar" (for the district's 2017-2018 Art School Calendar), and "Special Audio-Visual Project" (for the district's 2017 Veterans Day slideshow). Our district also received an Honorable Mention for our community newsletter, School Report.
Parent Night (Open House) Schedule
Posted September 4, 2018
Please see the school Parent Night schedule for the 2018-2019 school year.
Air Conditioning
Posted September 1, 2018
Air conditioning all of our schools has been a top priority for Glastonbury Public Schools for many years. We are pleased to report that all our school classroom and libraries, with the exception of Gideon Welles School, are now air conditioned. We look forward to completing the air conditioning of Gideon Welles School in the spring or summer of 2019.
Teacher of the Year 2018-2019!!
Posted August 28, 2018
Congratulations to Mr. Robert Rose, Glastonbury Public Schools's 2018 Teacher of the Year! Mr. Rose has taught English at Smith Middle School for 15 years. His passion and dedication to the profession and to his students is unparalleled. He is beloved by students and staff alike. And he is always at the forefront of developments in teaching and technology, sharing his time and creativity generously. We are delighted to have Mr. Rose join the ranks of our esteemed Teachers of the Year. Mr. Rose was also recently selected as a CT State Teacher of the Year semifinalist!!
Looking Forward to a Great Year!
Posted August 23, 2018
Welcome to the 2018-2019 school year. We are so excited to welcome back our students, teachers, and staff. Please click here for a a welcome letter from Superintendent of Schools Alan B. Bookman and a letter from Board of Education Chairman Susan Karp.
Best School District in Hartford Area
Posted August 15, 2018
Niche has ranked Glastonbury Public Schools the number one school district in the Hartford Area for 2019.
Please click here for the Niche rankings.
Two New Administrators
Posted July 25, 2018
New Assistant Principal/Special Education Supervisor
Mrs. Kimberly Herwerth has been appointed Assistant Principal/Special Education Supervisor at Gideon Welles School. Mrs. Herwerth has served as a School Counselor at Glastonbury High School for nearly 20 years. Prior to that, she worked in both special education and crisis counseling. Gideon Welles is fortunate to welcome such a knowledgeable, experienced, and conscientious educator.
New Assistant Principal
Mrs. Leslie Lopez has been appointed Assistant Principal at Smith Middle School. Mrs. Lopez has worked at Glastonbury Schools for the past 13 years as a band teacher in grades four to six. Before coming to Glastonbury, she taught band in East Hartford for six years. Mrs. Lopez is highly regarded by her students, their families, and her colleagues. Her listening and leadership skills will be a great asset to Smith Middle School.
Districts Adopts New Strategic Plan
Posted July 2, 2018
In June the Board of Education adopted a new five-year strategic plan for the district. The revised plan is the work of a committee of dedicated educators, parents and community members. It articulates Glastonbury Public Schools' values, vision, mission and goals.The plan will prepare our students to succeed in this dynamic world. Click here for more information about the new strategic plan. The Board also adopted a new tagline for the district: Bright Futures Begin Here.
Change in Inclement Weather School Delay Times
Posted July 2, 2018
The district has changed its standard school delay time from 90 minutes to 2 (two) hours. This additional time will provide a better opportunity for roads to be cleared for the safety of buses traveling in inclement weather. Click here for more information on school closings and delays.