Superintendent’s Message on Today's Events at Fitch ...

Superintendent’s Message on Today's Events at Fitch High School Hello Groton Public Schools Families and Staff, This morning, Fitch High School hosted an in-house civic town hall bringing together our students, district and school administrators, local and state representatives, and members of the Board of Education to discuss Federal Immigration Enforcement.  I could not be prouder of our Falcons. As a school community, we embrace our vision of the graduate and strive for all our students to RISE; to become Resilient Individuals, Innovative Learners, Socially Aware Citizens, and Engaged Learners. Today, our students embodied those values. Hundreds of students chose to participate in the school forum, with many speaking bravely and passionately about current events, their concerns, and hopes. The conversation was honest and respectful, and it was clear our students are engaged and want to be informed.  I would also like to address reports regarding students who participated in the walkout. Approximately 35 students chose to join the student-organized walkout. We did have an increased staff and police presence at the school to monitor who was leaving the building. Students were not blocked from leaving the building, and those who chose to leave exited the building freely and peacefully. The school did not enter a lockdown at any time; however, this afternoon, Fitch High School entered Classroom Secure for an unrelated event.   We respect the informed decision all students made to exercise their rights – to participate in the school town hall, remain in class, or engage in the walkout – and hope their participation was a meaningful experience for all our students, regardless of the way in which they chose to express themselves.  We remain committed to providing safe, supportive spaces where our students' voices can be expressed and they can engage in positive conversations with our local officials. Sincerely, Susan L. Austin Superintendent Groton Public Schools

Friday, Feb 06 2026

Superintendent’s Message on Student Protests and Fed...

Superintendent’s Message on Student Protests and Federal Immigration Policy in Schools Dear Groton Public Schools Families, I have been made aware that some Fitch High School students may be planning a walkout on Friday, February 6, 2026, in protest of ICE, as Principal Brown shared in his ParentSquare message. We understand that students feel strongly about self-expression and respect their right to Freedom of Speech and peaceful protest. Student voice is important in all our schools; however, it must be exercised without disruption to the school day and while adhering to school policies. To support this, the school administration is offering students time in the schedule on Friday and a space in the school where they may gather and express their views. Any students who participate in a walkout will be subject to consequences, per the Fitch High School student handbook. Please know that the safety of our students is our top priority, and we value the opportunity to work alongside our students to ensure their voices can be heard in a meaningful and respectful manner.  I’m also sharing an ACLU Connecticut Know Your Rights resource related to K-12 public school student protests. While we have not heard of any reports of ICE planning to be in our community, I would like to remind families that there are clear protocols in place regarding ICE access to schools. Please see the January 2025 message I sent to families last year on Federal Immigration Policy, which outlines these protections that apply to students while at school.   Sincerely, Susan L. Austin Superintendent Groton Public Schools

Wednesday, Feb 04 2026

Celebrating Our First 90 Days Together!

Celebrating Our First 90 Days Together! Welcome Back, GPS Students and Staff! After two snow days, it's great to be back together again! Today marks the 90th day of the school year, the halfway point, and a moment to pause and celebrate all that our students and staff have accomplished so far. From classrooms to stages, gyms, and school events, the first half of the year has been filled with learning, creativity, teamwork, and growth. This slideshow captures just a few of those moments that remind us why School Is Better When We’re All Together! We can’t wait to see what the second half of the year brings as we continue learning, growing, and cheering one another on, and as we look ahead to celebrating the Class of 2026! As we reach this milestone, families will also receive a mid-year Student Attendance Report later today. The report includes a customized attendance chart showing how many days your student has been absent and which attendance tier they fall into. Every day in school matters! It helps students stay connected to their learning, teachers, and peers. Our goal is for all students to miss less than 10% of the school year. If you ever have questions or need support, please reach out to your child’s principal. We’re here to help. Keep showing up. Keep shining. The best is yet to come! Sincerely, Susan L. Austin Superintendent, Groton Public Schools

Wednesday, Jan 28 2026

Winter Storm Update and Preparations for GPS Familie...

Winter Storm Update: Staying Safe & Informed Hello GPS Families and School Staff, We know there is a lot of anticipation around the winter storm expected from Sunday into Monday. Earlier today, I participated in a call with local officials, and there is strong confidence in the forecast and that this will be a significant weather event. We will continue to closely monitor the timing and location of the system. At this time, we anticipate all schools will be closed on Monday and plan to make an official announcement by early Sunday. Once an official decision is made, we will share an update via ParentSquare and post the information on the Groton Public Schools website, Facebook page, and through local news outlets. As you prepare for the storm, you’ll find links to town and city Facebook pages and websites where announcements and emergency preparedness information will be posted. I wish everyone a safe weekend. Sincerely, Susan L. Austin Superintendent of School Groton Public Schools   Town and City Online Resources Town of Groton Facebook Page Town of Groton Police Department Town of Groton Website Town of Groton Human Resources City of Groton Facebook Page City of Groton Police Department City of Groton Website

Friday, Jan 23 2026

Early Childhood Program Expansion and Parent Survey

Early Childhood Program Expansion Survey Parents of 3-5 year old children: We want to hear from you! Big News for Our Littlest Learners Groton Public Schools is taking an exciting step toward expanding high-quality early childhood education in our community! A proposed Early Childhood Center at the former Mary Morrisson School site would offer full-day preschool opportunities for four-year-olds, helping children build the academic and social skills they need for kindergarten and beyond. Funded through Connecticut’s Smart Start Program, this investment brings our vision closer to reality, and we want to hear from you! Parents and guardians of children ages 3–5: Your feedback matters. Please take a few minutes to complete our Early Childhood Parent Survey and share your interest and needs as we plan for the future of early learning in Groton. Learn more about the proposed early childhood center in the latest issue of School Matters, our district newsletter. Go to the Parent Survey

Wednesday, Jan 14 2026

In This Issue of GPS School Matters: K Registration,...

School Matters January 2026 Pictured: Groton Middle School students helped kick off the Lt. Governor’s Computing Challenge by participating in a statewide webinar livestreamed from the Groton Middle School media center. Read more about it in this issue of School Matters! A Message from Superintendent Austin Dear Groton Public Schools Community, As we begin the new year and approach the halfway mark of the school year, I want to share my sincere gratitude for your partnership and support. It is a privilege to lead and serve Groton Public Schools, and I could not be prouder of the work we are doing together for our students. Across Groton Public Schools, our collective Cradle to Career efforts continue to strengthen learning at every stage. We are supporting our youngest learners by bridging birth-to-three services with preschool and pre-kindergarten opportunities for families, while also enhancing instruction throughout our K-12 system. I am pleased to share that we have been awarded a SMART START grant from the Office of Early Childhood, with capital funding beginning this year and operational funding the following year. This important investment will allow us to expand our preschool and preK programs and further support early learning across the district. In our classrooms, we remain focused on building strong foundations in English, math, science, and social studies, while continuing to expand opportunities in STEM, the arts, world languages, humanities, and career pathways. Another exciting development this year is that we have brought our Aluminum Falcon’s Robotics team back to the NEST, home to Fitch High School. At the same time, we are preparing to launch the Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing/Machining (D.R.E.A.M.) pathway at Fitch High School. This innovative work, supported by Electric Boat, reflects our commitment to preparing students for meaningful, high-demand careers.  None of this work would be possible without the strength of our district-wide magnet programs, including our elementary magnet schools and Groton Middle School’s IB Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) STEAM model. Together, these programs create a rich, connected, and engaging learning pathway for all Groton students. Most importantly, I want to acknowledge the compassion, unity, and care our community has shown during moments of loss. We have come together to support one another, with grace, empathy, and resilience, and that is what truly defines Groton Public Schools. Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and the many ways you support our students each day. I look forward to the months ahead and all we will continue to accomplish together. With Grace and Gratitude, Susan L. Austin Superintendent Welcome New and Re-Elected Board of Education Members Congratulations to our newly sworn-in Board member, Mitch Shinbrot, and our re-elected Board Members, Chair Beverly Washington, Sean Corcoran, Dr. Andrea Ackerman, and to our returning members Jay Weitlauf, Vice Chair Adrian Johnson, Jen White, Dr. Mike Whitney, and Ian Thomas. We also extend our sincere gratitude to Dean Antipas for his five years of dedicated service to the Board. View Board Meeting agendas, minutes, and more on the Board of Education webpage.     Teaching and Learning News The former Fitch High School Auto Shop has recently been transformed into a D.R.E.A.M. (Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing). It is also the new home to the Aluminum Falcons 2168 Robotics Team, which recently hosted an open house for families and students. Fitch High School expanding pathways to build Groton’s future workforce D.R.E.A.M. - Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing Groton Public Schools is expanding opportunities for students to explore and pursue high-demand careers in robotics, engineering, architecture, and manufacturing through the D.R.E.A.M. Career Pathway at Fitch High School. The pathway, which now includes opportunities in robotics and advanced manufacturing, is designed to prepare the next generation of highly skilled machinists and technical professionals to support our region's growing workforce needs, where manufacturing accounts for nearly half of all jobs across Southeastern Connecticut. Grounded in a mission to prepare students for high-wage, high-demand careers, students will be empowered with the technical expertise, confidence, and purpose needed to thrive in modern manufacturing fields. They’ll engage in hands-on learning experiences that build real-world skills, earn college credits, and open doors to strong career opportunities with major employers such as General Dynamics Electric Boat, the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, and regional manufacturing partners. Fitch students will be able to advance from courses such as Introduction to Manufacturing, Engineering Design & Development, Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, and AP Computer Science into more advanced coursework. such as Precision Machining and Robotics Systems. These high school experiences build upon Groton’s K–8 STEAM continuum. Elementary students begin developing curiosity and problem-solving skills through robotics, coding, engineering, and architecture activities, enriched by partnerships such as Boat for Next Gen and Summer STEAM Camps. At Groton Middle School, Project Lead the Way courses, including Computer Science for Innovators and Makers, Design and Modeling, Green Architecture, and Robotics, lay the academic and technical foundation that feeds directly into high school opportunities. The link between the Fitch pathway and career-readiness is already evident. In 2024, two Fitch High School graduates participating in the Next Gen Partnership celebrated “Signing Day” with Electric Boat and are now employed full-time. Supported by a dedicated steering committee of district leaders, industry partners, higher education collaborators, and state representatives, the D.R.E.A.M. Pathway represents Groton’s commitment to building economic resilience, strengthening family-supporting career options, and ensuring students are prepared for success in the industries shaping our region’s future. As Seen In The Day newspaper The Day: Proposed manufacturing center at Fitch to build skills fill jobs   Early Childhood Center proposed at former Mary Morrisson school site Groton Public Schools' vision to offer pre-kindergarten and integrated preschool to all four-year-old children in Groton is moving closer to becoming a reality. A proposed Early Childhood Center, funded through Connecticut's Office of Early Childhood Smart Start program, will allow the district to expand and enhance its early childhood programs.   The new center would offer full-day opportunities for four-year-olds, who will be eligible for Kindergarten the following school year, giving children the academic and social readiness skills they need for kindergarten and beyond. The Groton Public Schools Board of Education voted to accept $600K in state funding at its December 15 meeting toward the construction of the former Mary Morrisson Elementary School on Toll Gate Road, the proposed site of the planned NAEYC-accredited center. Read More Early Childhood Parent Survey   Groton Middle School student Amelia Hershel and GMS teacher and Challenge Champion Evan Rubin share their story in this video about the Lieutenant Governor’s Computing Challenge, which kicked off last week at Groton Middle School. Amelia’s project was recognized in the 2024–2025 competition, and together they’re inspiring the next generation of “Coding for Good” creators. Groton Middle School hosts Lt. Governor’s statewide computing challenge kick off Groton Public Schools had the honor of hosting Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, along with educators, students, and distinguished guests from across Connecticut, for the Lieutenant Governor’s Computing Challenge Kick off Event at Groton Middle School. The event celebrated the launch of this year’s statewide “Coding for Good” challenge, inspiring students in grades 3–12 to design computing solutions that promote health, wellness, and positive change. Superintendent Susan Austin was joined by Groton Middle School Principal Peter Bass, Town of Groton Mayor Juliette Parker, City of Groton Mayor Jill Rusk, State Representative Dan Gaiewski, and many event sponsors. Read More   K-5 Magnet School Highlights Catherine Kolnaski Magnet School hosted its first of three STEAM Days earlier this year, sparking curiosity, creativity, and collaboration from kindergarten through fifth grade! Students rotated through exciting, hands-on explorations in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics, building sail cars, creating pumpkin art, hiking the Sassacus Trail, exploring the EB Mobile Lab, and experimenting with sound, rhythm, and design. Community partners, including the Connecticut Science Center, Mystic Museum of Art, General Dynamics Electric Boat, and EASTCONN helped make this inspiring day possible. As Seen in The Day newspaper: STEAM Day takes learning outside the classroom in Groton Charles Barnum Discovery Magnet School students showcased the projects they created in their Trimester 1 Discovery Clusters during a recent Discovery Expo. These hands-on, interest-based learning experiences allow students to explore new ideas, build skills, and follow their curiosity. Each trimester, students choose a Discovery Cluster that inspires them, with offerings spanning a wide range of creative and project-based opportunities. Adding to the excitement, the district’s Food Services Farm to School team hosted a tasting table where students sampled freshly made smoothies as they toured the expo. As Seen in The Day newspaper: Celebrating Discovery Mystic River Active Play and Exploration Magnet School was buzzing with excitement as students took part in the second annual Day of Play, a full day dedicated to creativity, movement, curiosity, and learning. Throughout the day, students rotated through a variety of hands-on stations designed to highlight the power of play. From science exploration centers to an obstacle course, students experimented, built, collaborated, and discovered new ways to learn through play. They enjoyed games from around the world, construction and design challenges, and even a station where they could invent their own games. The celebration wrapped up with a staff inflatable costume race, which brought lots of laughter. Third- and fourth-grade students at Northeast Academy Arts Magnet School enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes introduction to The Nutcracker ahead of their trip to The Garde Arts Center to see a live performance by Eastern Connecticut Ballet, featuring guest artists from the Boston Ballet. During an interactive assembly with Eastern Connecticut Ballet, students learned the story of the ballet, explored proper theater etiquette, and practiced a variety of ballet movements with professional instructors. The experience sparked excitement as students prepared for their visit to The Garde to enjoy the nautical-themed production of The Nutcracker, accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s celebrated music. Fifth-grade students at Thames River Environmental and Marine Science Magnet School participated in an interactive Zoom session with Megan Granto, Supervising Environmental Analyst at CT DEEP, during their “Nature Time” class with Ms. Rotner. As “City Planners” for their sustainable city project, students posed thoughtful questions about sustainable food sources, transportation systems, and ways to reduce tree removal. Ms. Granto offered expert guidance and suggested real-world cities for further research. Students are excited to begin planning!   Give the gift of time to a Groton student in 2026 Become a student mentor for just a half-hour a week. Groton Public Schools is seeking caring adults interested in joining our Mentor Program, and the program will host information sessions in January during National Mentor Month. The Groton Public Schools Mentor Program provides a powerful connection between adults and students in our community. Mentors meet once per week with their students for 30 minutes, playing board games or card games, crafting, learning new hobbies, sharing snacks, or simply chatting. For students in grades K–12, the gains are immediate: Encouragement that strengthens academic confidence Social-emotional skills for navigating school and life A deeper sense of belonging and worth, knowing someone is in their corner Mentors benefit as well, experiencing a renewed sense of community impact and gaining the joy and perspective that comes from nurturing a young person’s potential. Interested adults can learn more and submit an interest form on the Groton Public Schools website: www.grotonschools.org/mentor. Mentor Info Session Sign-up   Kindergarten Registration and K-5 Magnet Lottery Welcome, Class of 2039! Kindergarten Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is now open. If your child will turn five years old on or before September 1, 2026, they are eligible to begin their exciting journey in Groton Public Schools this fall. Get started completing the online registration form today! Intra-District Magnet Lottery Groton Public Schools' Intra-District magnet lottery application for students entering grades K-5 next school year will also open in late January/early February and is expected to close on March 31, 2026. More details and application links will be available soon at www.grotonschools.org/magnet. Check the Groton Public Schools website and follow us on Facebook for upcoming announcements and important dates.  In the Spotlight: GPS Staff Making An Impact In Our Community Adella Haggarty, Transition Academy Teacher, publishes first book Adella Haggerty, a special education teacher at Groton Public Schools’ Transition Academy, a program that supports young adults with disabilities as they transition into adulthood, has published her first book. Railings and Ramps follows a young boy named Jonathan as he helps his father at the family’s country store over the summer. Through his experiences, Jonathan discovers how compassion and community can make a space more welcoming for everyone.   The book is illustrated by Caitlin Shaffer, who grew up in Mystic and attended Butler Elementary School and Cutler Middle School. A lifelong writer, Adella has kept a daily journal for more than 50 years and has also written the words and music for two original songs. Railings and Ramps is her first published children’s book, inspired by her passion for creativity, inclusion, and community, and is available for purchase online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, and other bookshops. Gina McGrade, Transition Academy Paraeducator and Groton Park & Recreation instructor, honored Congratulations to Gina McGrade, paraeducator at the Transition Academy, who received the Inclusive or Adaptive Program of Merit Award from the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association. She was honored for leading the Adaptive Cooking for Fun program at Fitch High School, where she creates an inclusive, supportive space for young adults to build confidence and independent living skills. SNACT Director of the Year: Ernie Koschmieder Ernie Koschmieder, Groton Public Schools Food Services Director, was selected by his peers as the 2024–2025 School Nutrition Association of Connecticut (SNACT) Director of the Year. Ernie celebrated this well-earned honor with family, district leaders, and members of the Food Services team. Thank you for your year-round dedication to serving nutritious meals and for championing innovative efforts like our Farm to School to Home initiatives and our Summer Meals program.   Stay Connected Don't Miss A Message Learn how to customize your ParentSquare notification settings so you receive only the messages you want, when you want them and never miss a message. Join Us on ParentSquare

Friday, Jan 09 2026

December 19 Schedule Update

Update Regarding Friday, December 19 School Schedule Dear Groton Public Schools Families and Staff, We have an important update regarding tomorrow's school schedule for Friday, December 19, 2025. After thoughtful consideration, we have made the decision to shift to an early dismissal at all schools, except Mystic River Magnet School, which will remain closed for the day. As we shared earlier today, our GPS family has been devastated by the sudden loss of Mrs. Kerry Nystrom, our teacher, colleague, and friend. This schedule adjustment will allow staff across the district time to gather, support one another, and grieve this profound loss. We will follow the district Early Dismissal schedule.  Please note the following: There will be no afternoon Tree House childcare. There will be no afternoon Preschool classes. High school athletic practices and contests will continue as scheduled, with late buses running normally for the high school only. Thank you for your understanding and support. Susan L. Austin Superintendent of School Groton Public Schools

Thursday, Dec 18 2025

Community Food Resources Available to Groton Families

Community Food Resources Available for Groton Families Dear Groton Public Schools Families, We know that the ongoing federal government shutdown is creating increasing challenges for many families in our community, including financial hardship and food insecurity. Earlier this week, we shared information about the Free and Reduced-Price Meal Program, and we want to ensure you are aware of other available supports throughout the community. We’ve gathered a list of resources and meal sites below and will continue to share any information that is passed along to our schools. Please feel free to reach out to your child’s principal, assistant principal, or school counselor if your family needs assistance. Our staff can help connect you with local programs and services. We are here to help — and together, we can support one another through challenging times. With care, Susan L. Austin Superintendent of School Groton Public Schools   Community Resources SNAP Benefits The Connecticut Department of Social Services has announced that SNAP benefits issued before October 31 can still be used throughout November. To check your SNAP balance: Visit MyDSS Call 1-888-328-2666 Town of Groton Human Services The Town of Groton Human Services Department offers many resources and supports for families experiencing food insecurity or other hardships. Address: 2 Fort Hill Road, Groton Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM Food Distribution: 10:00–11:50 AM and 2:00–4:00 PM Requirements: Groton residents; must call ahead for an appointment; available once per month Phone: 860-441-6750  Website: https://www.groton-ct.gov/departments/humanservices/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrotonHumanServices/ Groton Community Meals Everyone is welcome. All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Monday: 6–7 PM at Thrive 55+ (Groton Senior Center), 120 Newtown Road Wednesday: 6–7 PM at Thames River Magnet School, 250 Brandegee Avenue Learn More: 860-389-3904 or www.grotonmeals.org/calendar Pop-Up Mobile Food Pantry Walk-up only, no registration required. Bring your own bags. Location: Thrive 55+ Active Living Center, 102 Newtown Road, Groton Date: Monday, November 10 Time: 4:30–5:30 PM Phone: United Way at 860-464-7281 Malta Pantry No residency or income restrictions. Location: 20 Grove Avenue, Groton Hours: Wednesdays, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM Phone: 860-373-3975 United Way Mobile Food Pantry Drive-through and walk-up service. Location: St. John’s Christian Church Pantry, 346 Shennecossett Road, Groton Schedule: 4th Friday of each month, 12:30–2:00 PM Phone: 860-464-3327 Website: www.uwsect.org/calendar

Friday, Oct 31 2025

An Update Regarding Free and Reduced School Meals

An Update Regarding Free and Reduced School Meals Dear Groton Public Schools Families, We want to reassure you that the federal government shutdown and its effect on SNAP benefits does not impact our School Breakfast or Lunch Program, or your student’s current meal status. Families who have already qualified will continue to receive free or reduced-price school meals, and our Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) schools will maintain their free meal status. However, if your family has been affected by the shutdown or experiences a change in income, now or at any time during the school year, we strongly encourage you to complete a new Free and Reduced-Price Meal application. Paper applications are always available at your child’s school, or you can apply online at School Cafe. If approved, your benefits will remain in effect for the rest of the school year. Even families at CEP schools should complete an application. In addition to determining your student’s meal benefits, they help our schools secure valuable funding that supports students and programs. Please contact our Food Services Department at 860-449-7208 if you have any questions or require assistance with the application process. Sincerely, Susan L. Austin Superintendent of Schools Groton Public Schools Apply Now For Free/Reduced Meals

Thursday, Oct 30 2025

Did you move this summer? Be sure to let us know.

📦 Did you move this summer? Be sure to let us know! If your family has a new address, please contact your child’s school to request a Change of Address form. Updating your info helps us make sure transportation and school records are accurate for a smooth start to the year! 🚌🏡 Catherlne Kolnaski - 860-449-5608 Charles Barnum - 860-449-5640 Mystic River - 860-980-8300 Northeast Academy - 860-572-5852 Thames River - 860-980-8230 Groton Middle School - 860-446-4200 Fitch High School - 860-449-7200 Parents, when leaving a message or updating your contact information, please be sure to include a phone number we can reach you during the day so we can return or your call (or reach you during an emergency during the school year). If this is not your mobile phone number, be sure to add a number for your work place or employer.

Thursday, Aug 14 2025