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  • You're Invited to a Community Conversation: Groton F...

    Community Conversation: Groton Families with the Board of Education Join Us Monday, September 28 from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. in-person or online The Groton Board of Education invites community members to join us for a Special Meeting to learn more about the Board's goals and share comments and perspectives with Board members. Meeting Details Date: Monday, September 28, 2026 Time: 5:00–6:00 p.m. Location: Groton Public Schools Central Office, Room 11 Address: 1300 Flanders Road, Mystic Online Participation: A link to join online will be posted on or before September 25. Community engagement is an important part of the Board’s work, and we encourage families, staff, and community members to participate either in-person or online as we discuss the following Board of Education Goals: Focus on improving student learning outcomes Continue to align our expenditures with district priorities Review building capacity based on expected demographic trends Improve the flow of the Board's Business Community Engagement About Comments from Citizens - This portion of the agenda is when the Board will welcome comments from citizens regarding the Board of Education goals. Each citizen will be limited to three minutes. Board members will only ask questions in order to clarify the citizen’s comments. Citizens should make their comments from the podium and state their name and address for the record. We hope you’ll join us and take part in this important community conversation. Board of Education Website

    Wednesday, Sep 16 2026

  • Our First Week Together and Reminders for Next Week'...

    A Great First Week Back Together! Reflections and Reminders for Next Week's Schedule September 4, 2026 Dear GPS Families, Students, Teachers, and Staff, It’s been a great first week across Groton Public Schools! We’ve loved seeing our students back in our schools and classrooms, reconnecting with returning families, and welcoming so many new students, teachers, and staff to our district. This week also marked an exciting milestone as we officially welcomed our newest learners, our four-year-old students at the new Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center. From our youngest learners beginning their educational journey to our Falcons Class of 2027 beginning their final year with us, there is so much to celebrate as we start a new school year together. Across Groton Public Schools, our Vision of the Graduate begins with those very first experiences in the classroom, building early literacy and math skills, developing curiosity and confidence, and learning how to be part of a school community. It continues throughout a student’s journey as we prepare every learner for their future, whether that leads to college, a career, the workforce, or another path. We’re also excited to share that our students had a fantastic first week of attendance across our schools. September is Attendance Awareness Month, making this a great time to reinforce a simple but important message: Every day in school matters. Consistent attendance helps students learn, build relationships, and stay connected to their school community. We encourage families to make attendance a priority throughout the year and to reach out to their school when challenges arise. Finally, a reminder that there is no school on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. We hope everyone enjoys the three-day weekend and has a chance to rest and recharge after a busy first week. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday and to all that the 2026–2027 school year will bring! Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend! Susan L. Austin Superintendent Groton Public Schools Anne Marie Mancini, E.d.D. Assistant Superintendent Groton Public Schools

    Friday, Sep 04 2026

  • Groton Public Schools Food Services is Going Cashless

    Important Update Groton Public Schools, including Food Services, is Going Cashless Groton Public Schools is moving to a cashless model across the district. As part of this transition, Food Services will no longer accept cash payments for school meals and a la carte items, including milk. Going forward, families can add funds to their child's meal account in SchoolCafe or by check, as explained below. As a reminder, all Groton Public School students receive free breakfast at all our schools. School menus and individual school lunch prices are listed on the Groton Public Schools Food Services web page at www.grotonschools.org/studentnutrition. We also encourage all families to complete the 2026-2027 USDA Free and Reduced Price Meals Application through SchoolCafe, even if you are unsure whether you qualify. Completing an application can also help our district qualify for additional benefits and resources for students. Paper copies will also be available at your child's school. How to Add Funds to Your Student's Meal Account We understand that families may have different preferences for adding funds to meal accounts and appreciate your cooperation as the district transitions to a cashless model. You can use one of the following options. 1. School Cafe Families can add funds to their child’s account online through SchoolCafe using a debit or credit card. You may need your student’s ID to set up a SchoolCafe account. In ParentSquare, go to Menu (three lines) → Students → Select Student → Dashboard → Overview to find their ID. Please note: SchoolCafe charges a $2.25 processing fee for each debit or credit card transaction. Go to School Cafe 2. Check Payments Families can send a check payment to school with their child. There is no processing fee for check payments. Checks can also be mailed to: Groton Public Schools Food Services Attn: Food Services 1300 Flanders Road Mystic, CT 06355 Please make all checks payable to GPS Food Services and include your student's name and student ID on the check. If you have questions about meal payments or your child’s meal account, please contact Food Services at (860) 449-7208.

    Friday, Aug 28 2026

  • Getting Ready for Back-to-School, First Days, and Sc...

    Getting Ready for Back-to-School A Message from Superintendent Susan Austin Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students, I hope you are enjoying a restful and enjoyable summer filled with time to relax, learn, and make memories with family and friends. Our schools have been busy throughout the summer, as we prepare for another exciting year. Many students participated in summer learning and enrichment programs, while teachers, administrators, and staff have been preparing classrooms and ensuring our schools are ready to provide outstanding learning experiences for every student. On Monday, August 31, we are excited to welcome students in grades K-12 for another year of learning, discovery, and growth. At Groton Public Schools, our Cradle to Career focus remains steadfast. From Early Childhood through college, career, and workforce readiness, we are committed to preparing every student for their very best future. Every decision we make, every lesson we teach, every relationship we build, and every opportunity we create moves us closer to that goal. This year marks an especially exciting milestone as we open the new Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center (MMECC), providing our youngest learners with a nurturing environment designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning, ensuring every child has a strong foundation for future success. We are also expanding opportunities for our students with the opening of our Manufacturing Machine Shop and Robotics Lab at Fitch High School as part of the expansion of the DREAM Career Pathway (Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, Manufacturing, Machining, and Military Science). This innovative program reflects the strength of our community partnerships with Electric Boat, the U.S. Navy, and our local workforce, creating opportunities that prepare students for high-demand careers while expanding their choices after graduation. Across every school, we remain committed to strengthening literacy and mathematics instruction, while providing engaging classroom, enrichment, and extracurricular opportunities where students experience meaningful, joyful learning. Together, we’ll also support students social-emotional well-being, foster a strong sense of belonging, and reconnect every student with the excitement and purpose of school. To help you prepare for the new year, important information is available on our district’s website at www.grotonschools.org/backtoschool. There you’ll find school start and end times, the 2026–2027 school calendar, and other essential back-to-school details we'll be sharing throughout the month. We look forward to partnering with you for another outstanding school year and welcoming our students starting on Monday, August 31. With sincere grace and gratitude, Susan L. Austin Superintendent Groton Public Schools First Days of School and School Times First Days of School: Monday, August 31, 2026 – First day for grades K–12 - All Elementary, Groton Middle School, and Fitch High School students Wednesday, September 2, 2026 – First day for full-day PreK at MMECC and AM/PM Preschool at Thames River School Start and End Times: Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center: 9:00 a.m. - 3:35 p.m. All Elementary: 9:00 a.m. - 3:35 p.m. Groton Middle School: 7:50 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Fitch High School: 7:40 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. AM Preschool: 9:00 a.m. - 11:48 a.m. / PM Preschool: 12:48 p.m. - 3:35 pm. Back-to-School Website

    Friday, Aug 07 2026

  • Thank you Drone and Robotic Campers and Aluminum Fal...

    THANK YOU CAMPERS AND ALUMINUM FALCONS! Groton Middle School students had an amazing week at Drone and Robotics Mini Camp, where they built robots, coded with LEGO® Spike Prime, tackled FIRST LEGO League missions, and raced drones through an obstacle course. We want to extend a huge thank you to our incredible student volunteers from the  Fitch High School Aluminum Falcons Robotics Team for sharing their time, talents, and passion for STEM, and inspiring the next generation of Falcon innovators! Families interested in learning more about the Aluminum Falcons can visit their  Facebook page to learn about the team, explore upcoming competitions and community fundraisers, and discover ways to support their mission. The team also accepts donations through PayPal @AluminumFalcons2168 which help provide tools, materials, competition registration, travel, and hands-on STEM experiences.   ST

    Friday, Jul 31 2026

  • End of Year Message and Video

    A Year to Remember End-of-Year Video and Reflection Video Dear Groton Public Schools Community, As we look back on the 2025–2026 school year, we celebrate the many accomplishments, milestones, and memorable moments that defined another exceptional year in Groton Public Schools. From academic achievements and artistic performances to athletic successes, community partnerships, and student celebrations, it was a year filled with countless moments of learning, growth, and Falcon pride that made us proud to be part of the Groton Public Schools community. Hats off to our Class of 2026 Graduates! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what you do in the next chapter of your life. And Best Wishes to our Eighth graders promoted to High School, Future Class of 2030, and to our Fifth graders ready to move up to Groton Middle. School. Life is about transitions, and we are grateful to watch our students grow and flourish along the way. Throughout the graduation and promotion ceremonies, one message stood above all others: success is not measured solely by grades, awards, or accomplishments. True wisdom is reflected in how we treat one another. Over the last twelve years, I have watched our students learn to read, solve problems, perform on stages, compete on fields and courts, explore science and technology, create art, build friendships, and discover who they are becoming. My most valuable lesson in life that I learned from my parents was simply Work Hard and Be Kind; As important as hard work is, kindness matters just as much. One of the greatest lessons I have learned throughout my career is this: The wisest person in the room is often the kindest person in the room. I am proud to see these attributes in our students PK-12. As I reflect on the school year, I am grateful to our students, families, staff, Board of Education members, community partners, and volunteers who work together every day to support student success. Whether in classrooms, on stages, athletic fields, robotics competitions, community service projects, or countless other activities, our students have continued to inspire us with their talents, determination, and resilience. Looking back on the challenges, losses, and victories of these past nearly 11 months, I am reminded that our school district is so much more than just a collection of buildings; we are a community, we are a family. Thank you for a wonderful school year. We wish you a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable summer filled with opportunities to learn, explore, and create lasting memories. I look forward to the bright future we will continue to build together when our doors open again at the end of summer. Remember - Falcons RISE, Falcons SOAR. And remember, no matter where life takes you, you can always come home to the Nest. With grace and gratitude, Susan Austin Superintendent of Schools Groton Public Schools

    Friday, Jun 26 2026

  • Free Summer Meals for Anyone 18 and Under Begin Monday!

    Free Summer Meals Start Monday, June 29! Free Summer Meals Start Monday! 🍎☀️ School may be out, but nutritious meals are still on the menu! Beginning Monday, June 29, Groton Public Schools Food Services & Farm to School will provide FREE summer meals for all children and teens 18 years and younger at locations throughout Groton. View all the sites and menus at www.grotonschools.org/summermeals. ✅ Free for anyone 18 & under ✅ No registration or ID required ✅ Meals must be eaten on site Please note: No meals will be served on Thursday, July 2 or Friday, July 3 due to the holiday. Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy meals all summer long! View Summer Meal Sites and Menus [Friday, Jun 26 at 12:42 PM] Correction: Summer Meals Information 🍎☀️ We wanted to share a quick update! The link in our original Summer Meals post wasn't working correctly, but it has now been fixed. You can find all the information about free summer meals, including locations throughout Groton and weekly menus, at www.grotonschools.org/summermeals. You can also follow Groton Public Schools Food Services and Farm to School page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Groton.Student.Nutrition. We want to make sure every family has access to this important information so children and teens can enjoy free, nutritious meals at our meal sites all summer long. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

    Thursday, Jun 25 2026

  • Summer Reading Programs Start June 22nd at Our Local...

    Discover Summer Reading Adventures at Our Local Libraries Dig into reading this summer at our Groton and Mystic libraries. Summer reading programs kick off June 22 at our three local community libraries including the Mystic and Noank Library, Bill Memorial Library, and Groton Public Library. From reading challenges and special events to hands-on activities for children, teens, and adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out what’s happening at each of our local libraries and make reading part of your summer adventure. Plant a Seed, Read at the Mystic and Noank Library Stop by the library to sign up and pick up your Summer Reading Packet. Throughout the summer, you'll earn a prize each time you visit the library, and every completed prize drawing entry returned by noon on August 1 will be entered into the Grand Prize Drawing. There’s even more fun to discover all summer long! Enjoy drop-in crafts, available anytime the library is open, and pick up a new grab-and-go activity bag each week while supplies last. All programs take place at the library. Some events have limited space, so be sure to register early online, call the library, or stop by in person to reserve your spot. Mystic and Noank Library Website Unearth a Story This Summer at the Bill Memorial and Groton Public Libraries Stop by your library today to pick up your reading tracker and get ready for a summer of adventure, imagination, and discovery. The 2026 Summer Reading Program is open to readers of all ages. Simply track your reading throughout the summer to earn exciting prizes and participate in special events designed to spark curiosity and fun. Summer Reading at the Groton Public Library Sign up online or visit the library to pick up your reading log. Don't miss out on a summer packed with curiosity, community, and great books! Groton Public Library Website Summer Reading at the Bill Memorial Library Bill Memorial Library Website

    Thursday, Jun 18 2026

  • School Matters Newsletter - Career Pathways News, St...

    School Matters June 2026 The Robert E. Fitch High School Class of 2026 (pictured) will graduate on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Fitch High School. A Message from Superintendent Austin Dear Groton Public Schools Community, As another school year comes to a close, our schools are filled with celebration, excitement, reflection, and preparation for what comes next. In just a few weeks, we will proudly celebrate the Fitch High School Class of 2026 as they cross the stage to graduate on Thursday, June 18, and begin the next chapter of their lives. Their accomplishments, perseverance, and growth represent the very best of Groton Public Schools, and we look forward to all they will achieve in the future. Our Falcons RISE! At the same time, we are preparing to welcome our newest learners - the Class of 2039 - as they begin their educational journey in kindergarten. We are also excited to welcome the inaugural class of full-day PreK students to the renewed Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center, an important milestone that reflects our commitment to providing a strong foundation for our students. Across the district, students, teachers, and staff are making the most of these final days together. While classrooms remain busy with learning and celebrations, teams throughout the district are wrapping up the school year, organizing summer learning opportunities, and preparing for a strong start to the 2026–2027 school year. Important operational, maintenance, and facilities projects are already underway and will continue throughout the summer months. As I reflect on this year, I am filled with appreciation for our dedicated staff and tremendous pride in all that our students have accomplished. I would like to recognize our Teacher of the Year, Laurel Donovan from Fitch High School, our Outstanding Educators and Paraeducators of the Year, as well as all students, staff, and friends of education recognized this month. We also bid fair winds and following seas to 23 retiring colleagues whose service has helped shape generations of learners. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on our schools and community, and they will be greatly missed. I am truly grateful to all of our teachers, support staff, administrators, and employees whose commitment, professionalism, and care make a difference in the lives of students every day. Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our parents, families, community members, and Board members. Your partnership, support, and engagement throughout the year strengthen our schools and contribute to the success of every student. Together, we continue to build a community where students can learn, grow, and thrive. Please enjoy this edition of School Matters, which highlights the many accomplishments, celebrations, and stories that make Groton Public Schools such a special place. With Grace and Gratitude, Susan L. Austin Superintendent of Schools Teaching and Learning News From Early Learning to Career Pathways: Board of Education Approves Investments Supporting Students Funding will support the expansion of the district's Early Childhood Program and Fitch High School D.R.E.A.M. - Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing Fitch High School Class of 2026 graduates John (JT) Lambert, Logan Marshall-Taylor, and Marlye Ortiz were among more than 300 students recognized at General Dynamics Electric Boat's 5th Annual Signing Day for committing to careers in the shipbuilding industry. This spring, the Groton Board of Education approved two exciting projects that will create new opportunities for students and families for years to come. Together, these investments reflect Groton Public Schools' commitment to supporting Groton students at every stage of their educational journey, from their earliest educational experiences through career preparation and beyond. The Board accepted $600,000 in state funding to support the development of the new Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center. It also approved plans that support growing student interest in the D.R.E.A.M. (Department of Robotics, Engineering, Architecture, and Manufacturing) Career Pathway at Fitch High School. The Mary Morrisson Early Childhood Center will open for the 2026-2027 school year, welcoming children who are four by September 1 to the district's newly expanded full-day PreK program. The new program meets a critical need for high-quality, full-day, early childhood education in Southeastern Connecticut to give our youngest learners a strong start. Research shows that children who attend high-quality early learning programs are more likely to succeed in school, graduate from high school, four times more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree, and likely to earn up to 25% higher wages as adults. The new Advanced Manufacturing Center at Fitch High School will help prepare our Falcons for rewarding careers in one of Connecticut's fastest-growing industries. The project will transform a former autobody shop into a modern learning space equipped with industry-standard technology, equipment, and instruction. Developed in partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat, the Eastern Workforce Investment Board, and the University of Connecticut, the program will connect classroom learning directly to local workforce opportunities, providing students with valuable pathways to college, technical training, apprenticeships, and careers. In addition, as part of the D.R.E.A.M., we are expanding our Robotics program and supporting the Alumninum Falcons Robotics Team at Fitch High School. From helping our prek students build foundational literacy, communication, and social-emotional skills to developing advanced technical and career-ready skills in high school, these investments reflect the district's commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve. Association of Defense Communities (ADC) Highlights Groton and School Career Pathways National video series episode puts spotlight on Groton; Fitch High School students, Principal Matt Brown, and Superintendent Austin highlight link between career pathways and workforce opportunities Budget Update for the 2026–2027 School Year In May, the RTM approved the Town Council-supported budget for Groton Public Schools. The approved FY27 school budget is $97,025,941, which is $800,000 less than the budget originally proposed by the Board of Education. We are grateful that the Town Council for allocating $500,000 from the additional state education funding of a $1M. This will help us continue supporting our highest priority, accelerating learning and providing students with the programs, services, and opportunities they need to succeed. Thank you to everyone who participated in the budget process, attended meetings, shared feedback, and advocated for our students. We are especially grateful to Board of Education Chair Beverly Washington, the Board of Education, district administrators, faculty, staff, families, and community members whose dedication and support helped ensure a positive outcome for Groton's students. We look forward to continuing our work together to support every learner and prepare students for a successful future. Career Pathway Program Highlights NJROTC Change of Command Ceremony The Fitch High School NJROTC program held its third annual Change of Command Ceremony. Cadets delivered heartfelt tributes and high honors to retiring Commander and teacher LCDR Terry Henkle, recognizing his extraordinary leadership and impact on students. “This is a program we envisioned 12 years ago, and with the hard work and dedication of LCDR Henkle, it came to fruition. He has done a remarkable job, and it couldn’t have happened without him. He will be missed, but is always welcome home to the nest," Superintendent Austin shared. Principal Brown stated, “I am so proud of our NJROTC members and the bond that they have created over the last three years; they are truly a family. We will forever be grateful for LCDR Henkle’s vision, innovation, and leadership in creating and building our NJROTC Program. He will be missed greatly once he retires, but we will forever be linked as the leader of our Fitch NJROTC Program.” We are deeply grateful to LCDR Henkle for his years of service, dedication to our students, and commitment to building a program that develops leadership, character, and pride within our school community. International Baccalaureate Students Complete the Perfect Pitch Fitch High School IB Business Management students Jeremiah Baig, Mallory Bogle, Gabe De Dios, Kai Gordon, and Luca Jump earned First Place at Waterford High School’s “Perfect Pitch Challenge,” a regional competition where students developed and presented marketing strategies for a local business. Students prepared for the event by refining their presentation skills and applying key business concepts to a real-world challenge. Competing against teams from Waterford, Colchester, Stonington, and North Stonington, Fitch students impressed judges with a strong and creative proposal. Their presentation stood out for its use of SWOT analysis, a clear vision of the business as a lifestyle brand, and innovative ideas such as a subscription-based revenue stream and targeting new customer markets, including Electric Boat employees. Judges also praised the team’s ability to think strategically while considering real-world factors such as zoning constraints and community engagement. Nursing Students Bring Hands-On Learning to Elementary Schools Fitch High School Nursing Program students recently visited several of the district’s elementary schools to introduce fifth-grade students to careers in healthcare, lead hands-on activities, and talk about the courses and career pathway opportunities available at Fitch High School. Educators Rising Students Earn Top Honors at State Conference Earlier this spring, Fitch High School students in the Educators Rising program showcased their talents at the Educators Rising Conference and Competition at Southern Connecticut State University. Kiely Voland and Natalie Newbury earned first and second place honors for their interactive bulletin board projects, while Hannah Mathison received first place for her STEM lesson plan. Kiely's first-place finish qualified her to compete at the Educators Rising National Conference in Portland, Oregon. Groton Middle School Students Explore Career Pathways More than 160 Groton Middle School students recently explored careers in advanced manufacturing through a visit from the EASTCONN Mobile Manufacturing Lab. Students gained hands-on experiences with industry-standard equipment, including 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters, while learning about the skills, tools, and career opportunities available in Connecticut’s growing manufacturing sector. Earlier this spring, Groton Middle School also hosted its 2nd Annual Career Exploration Expo, which introduced students to Fitch High School's Career Pathways program and connected them with local businesses, organizations, and career-focused student groups. Community partners included Electric Boat, Pfizer, Hartford Healthcare, Mystic Museum of Art, the Eugene O’Neill Theater, the Groton Police Department, the Groton Fire Department, and many others. Student groups from the high school included Marketing, Culinary, NJROTC, Ed Rising, Project Lead the Way, and Nursing. K-5 Magnet School Highlights Thames River Students Turn Learning Into Action with Long Island Sound Project Thames River Environmental and Marine Science School's Grade 4 team partnered with Project Oceanology this year on a Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund project focused on protecting the environment and the health of the sound. Through the project, students learned about their local watershed and ways to be environmental stewards. One idea they developed was creating clean-up stations with signs and supplies to encourage visitors to help keep local parks clean. Keep an eye out for stations located at: Thames River Magnet School near the basketball courts Birch Plain Creek Wildlife Area Ocean Beach Park in New London Cheering on Success: Charles Barnum Hosts First-Ever “Rock the Test” Parade This spring, students across Groton Public Schools participated in Connecticut's statewide SBAC and NGSS assessments. At Charles Barnum Discovery Magnet School, students and staff came together to encourage Grade 3-5 students with their first-ever “Rock the Test” Parade. Students dressed in their best rock-and- roll attire, filled the hallways with cheers, signs, and excitement, and created an uplifting atmosphere focused on confidence, community, and school pride. It was a fun and memorable way to remind our students that we believe in them and are ready to cheer them on every step of the way! Catherine Kolnaski STEAM Night Brings Together Community Partners Catherine Kolnaski hosted its annual STEAM Night, welcoming more than 400 students and family members for an evening of hands-on learning and exploration. The event featured community partners, including Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum, Connecticut Science Center, Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, Pfizer, Electric Boat, UConn Avery Point, Fitch High School Robotics Team, Groton Schools Farm to School, Project Oceanology, Thames Amateur Astronomical Society, and the US Navy Dive Team. Interactive stations highlighting robotics, virtual reality, drones, music, math, and art brought STEAM learning to life, inspiring curiosity, creativity, and innovation among our students. Game On! Mystic River Students Design, Build, and Play Mystic River students in the fourth- and fifth-grade Playmakers play block recently put their creativity, problem-solving, and design skills on display by creating their own games and toys from start to finish. After weeks of planning and building, the students invited kindergarten classes to the cafeteria for a special game day where they could test out the creations. The student-designed attractions included a dart board, basketball game, skee ball, Plinko board, puppet theater, and marble maze. The event gave younger students a chance to play while allowing the Playmakers to showcase their hard work, creativity, and engineering skills. Northeast Academy Celebrates the Arts The arts were on full display at Northeast Academy Arts Magnet School during its annual two-day Celebrate the Arts Festival. The event brought the school to life with performances by dancers, musicians, and artists from across the district and community, while also providing students with opportunities to explore a variety of art forms through workshops, hands-on activities, and creative experiences. From visual arts and music to movement and performance, students were immersed in a celebration of creativity, self-expression, and the arts throughout the school day. You can view many of the performances on demand on Groton Public Schools YouTube Channel. In the Spotlight: Celebrating Teachers, Staff, and Friends of Education Pictured: Groton Public Schools Teacher of the Year is honored by school and district staff. Pictured L to R: Principal Matt Brown, Assistant Principal Amy McKenna, Groton Public Schools Teacher of the Year Laurel Donovan, Assistant Principal Carmita Hodge, Assistant Principal Adam Diskin, Superintendent of Schools Susan Austin Laurel Donovan of Fitch High School has been named Groton Public Schools' 2027 Teacher of the Year. Groton's Outstanding Educators for 2027 include Lauren Schwab (Catherine Kolnaski), Patricia Wicklund (Charles Barnum), Elizabeth Kulich (Mystic River), Kimberly Menacho (Northeast Academy), Jane Potts (Thames River), and Chad Fleming (Groton Middle School), who was selected by his peers to receive the award posthumously. Mystic River first-grade teacher Kerry Nystrom was also honored for her 40 years of service posthumously. Paula Thibodeau of Mystic River Magnet School has been named Groton’s 2027 Paraeducator of the Year. Groton’s Outstanding Paraeducators include Ana Ruiz (Catherine Kolnaski), Michael Gore (Charles Barnum), Cesar Dume Perez (Northeast Academy), Melanie Shutt (Thames River), Ciara Gordon-Sirois (Groton Middle School), and Amber Cool (Fitch High School). Additional Honorees: Substitute Teachers of the Year: Greg Lamanna (Fitch), Taylor Craig (GMS), Carole Bishop (Catherine Kolnaski), Mackenzie Bentley (Charles Barnum), Ava Crispino (Mystic River), Sara King (Northeast Academy), and Diane McCarthey (Thames River). Support Personnel of the Year: Ryan Miller (Fitch), Christine Greeley (Groton Middle School), Sarah Beebe (Catherine Kolnaski), Dina Tipton (Charles Barnum), Ronda Dutra (Mystic River), Justin Brinner (Northeast Academy), and Victoria Thomas (Thames River). Friends of Education: Chris Hugo (Fitch), John Silsby (Groton Middle School), Carissa Gullickson (Catherine Kolnaski), Jessica Carter (Charles Barnum), Lynn Belanger (Mystic River), Christina Coon (Northeast Academy), and Shanon Haney (Thames River). Students Honorees: CABE Leadership Award: Lauren Bullock and Nicholas Donaldson (Fitch High School), and Bodie White and Madison Woodhall (Groton Middle School) Young Playwrights Festival Award: Vera Ross (Fitch High School), Caitlin Gilmore and Piper Harnois of Groton Middle School re Poet Laureate: Noah Mensi (Fitch High School) On Monday, June 8, all of this year's honorees were recognized by the Board of Education and celebrated alongside their families, friends, colleagues, and members of the Groton Public Schools community. As Groton Public Schools' District honorees, Laurel Donovan and Paula Thibodeau will also be recognized at statewide events alongside outstanding educators and staff from across Connecticut, proudly representing Groton Public Schools. With Gratitude: Recognizing Our 2026 Retirees With gratitude and appreciation, Groton Public Schools is recognizing our 23 retirees from across our district, who combined have 620 years of service to our district. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the children of Groton and for the lasting impact you have had on students, families, staff, and our entire community. Congratulations! We wish you happiness, good health, and many wonderful experiences in your retirement. 2026 Retirees: Catherine Antezzo, Laurel Berns, Susan Bracbec, William Costello, Christine Dauphinais, Elizabeth Demauro, Peter Diette, Glen Graham, Frances Grigg, Adella Haggerty, Beth Horler, Lisa Lambert, Amy Marcotte, Stephanie Marshall, Debora Maurice, Patricia Montgomery, Jennifer Nowak, Jane Potts, Scott Reed, Shawn Towne, Sandra Walton, Cecily Westervlet, Clare Wurm We're Hiring! Join Our Team Looking for your next opportunity? Whether you're an experienced educator, a recent graduate, or considering a career change, explore what makes Groton Public Schools a great place to work. Visit the Groton Public Schools Careers Page to view current openings and find out where our hiring team will be out in the community this summer. We look forward to meeting you! Current Openings Summertime News Free Summer Meals Return to Groton This Summer Groton Public Schools Student Nutrition Services will offer free summer meals for children throughout our community. All children and teens aged 18 and under are eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch at designated meal sites. Meals will be available Monday through Friday during the summer months. A complete schedule of dates, times, and locations will be announced soon. Visit www.grotonschools.org/summermeals for the latest updates and program information. School-Based Health Centers Open This Summer Groton families can continue to access School-Based Health Center services throughout the summer through our partnership with Child & Family Agency. Available services include mental health counseling, as well as medical appointments for physical exams, immunizations and vaccines, and sick visits. To learn more or register for services, visit the Child & Family Agency website or call (860) 437-4550. Check It Out! Summer Reading Programs Offer Fun and Activities Summer reading programs kick off this month at our three local libraries! From reading challenges and special events to hands-on activities for children, teens, and adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out what’s happening at each of our local libraries and make reading part of your summer adventure. Mystic Noank Library Groton Public Library Bill Memorial Library Save-the-Date for Back to School Events Check our website and ParentSquare calendar throughout the summer at www.grotonschools.org for important back-to-school information. 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

    Wednesday, Jun 10 2026

  • Join the Robotics and Drone Mini-Camp at Groton Midd...

    🚁 Join the Robotics & Drone Mini-Camp at Groton Middle School! Have you ever wondered what it's like to be part of a competitive robotics or drone team? This exciting summer camp gives students the opportunity to experience both! Hosted in partnership with the Fitch High School Aluminum Falcons , campers will explore the world of robotics, coding,  and drone piloting through hands-on activities and challenges. Camp Activities Include: 🤖 Building a FIRST LEGO League field setup 💻 Building and coding competition-ready robots 🎯 Developing mission strategy and problem-solving skills 🚁 Learning drone piloting techniques 🏁 Navigating drone obstacle courses and flight challenges Camp Details Who: Groton Middle School students currently in grades 6–8 Where: Groton Middle School When: Monday, July 27 – Thursday, July 30 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Space is limited! Complete the registration form attached to this post by June 16, 2026, to reserve your child's spot today.  Form may close sooner if camp registration reachs capacity. 💳  Registration Fee:  $50 (non-refundable) NEW: Payments can now be made easily and securely through ParentSquare Pay , powered by Stripe.   Click on Items for Purchase in the Mobile App Reach out to Ben Moon at bmoon@groton.k12.ct.us with questions.

    Monday, Jun 01 2026