Lebanon Public Schools

– John F. Kennedy

I had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Connecticut Workforce Summit: Reimagining Career Pathways at the Hartford Convention Center. This experience provided valuable insight into emerging workforce trends and reinforced our commitment to expanding diverse, real-world learning pathways for our students. As we continue to strengthen programs like our Agricultural Science and Technology Education pathway and develop new opportunities such as welding, these conversations are critical to ensuring our students are prepared to be contributing members of an ever-evolving global society.

Here in the district, we were proud to host a regional Building Thinking Classrooms professional learning experience. Bringing educators together to focus on high-impact instructional practices supports our ongoing work to grow self-directed learners and cultivate innovative problem solvers—key elements of our Portrait of a Graduate.

Our district Learning Walks also continued throughout the month. These non-evaluative visits allow us to examine current practices, celebrate the excellent work happening in our classrooms, and reflect on opportunities to further strengthen instruction. This work remains central to our commitment to continuous improvement and instructional coherence across all schools.

Spring athletics are now underway, and it has been great to see our fields, track, and tennis courts come back to life. A sincere thank you to our facilities team for their hard work in preparing our spaces after a challenging winter season. We wish all of our student-athletes the best of luck this spring, your dedication, teamwork, and perseverance truly embody what it means to be an engaged collaborator and responsible citizen.

Students and staff enjoyed a well-deserved Spring Break from April 13–17, providing time to recharge for the final stretch of the school year.

Behind the scenes, our Professional Development and Evaluation Committee will be meeting to reflect on this year’s learning opportunities and begin planning for the 2026–2027 school year. This work ensures that we continue to build professional capacity across the district and align our efforts with our strategic plan.

We will also welcome our partners from Chartwells for a collaborative visit focused on evaluating our current food service program. These conversations help us ensure we are providing high-quality service and meeting the needs of our students and families. Additionally our food service team has special events planned like Mood Boost at LES, Global Eats at LMS and a Cook Off at LMHS.

Looking ahead, we will host our annual Ag Expo, a highlight of the spring season that showcases the incredible work of our students and the strength of our agricultural program. Additionally, students will begin state standardized assessments, an opportunity for them to demonstrate their learning and growth over the course of the year.

Finally, the Public Hearing on the 2026–2027 Budget will be held on April 20th. We encourage all members of our community to attend, learn more about the proposed budget, and participate in this important process.

As always, thank you for your continued partnership and support of Lebanon Public Schools as we work together to grow learners, cultivate leaders, and create legacies.

AI In Action: Supporting Teacher and Student Success

By: Rita Quiles-Glover, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

This month, our staff engaged in additional professional development focused on the thoughtful and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. This work was guided by our district AI Committee, with presentations led by Jen Olsen, John Klosowski, Kate Cofrancesco, Amy Reynolds, Erica Strong, Barbara Archer, Chad Johnson, Joel Kuczynski, Amber Van Dyne, and myself. Together, the team facilitated sessions on key topics including improving work efficiency with AI, utilizing platforms such as Diffit and MagicSchool AI, strengthening assessment and feedback practices, and promoting AI literacy and digital citizenship.

This initiative reflects a strong, collaborative effort to ensure AI is implemented in ways that enhance both teaching and learning. Staff had valuable opportunities to learn from one another and engage with the latest updates in this rapidly evolving field. During the training, educators explored practical strategies to support lesson planning, personalize instruction, and increase student engagement. In addition, the district has established clear AI guidelines for both staff and students to promote ethical use, academic integrity, and responsible digital practices.

Research and case studies continue to show that consistent, intentional use of these tools can positively impact student outcomes. By equipping our educators with both the tools and the framework to use them effectively, we are strengthening instruction, supporting student success, and preparing our learners for an increasingly technology-driven world.

CT-SEDS Parent Portal Update:

Notification emails sent from CT-SEDS have a new domain: noreply.ctseds@ct.gov. Parents/Guardians will receive their notification email to access the Parent Portal from this domain now. The Parent Portal gives parents access to all of their child’s special education documents. It is also an easy way to sign consents electronically. For updated information on how to access the portal, please use this link:

Parent Portal (CT-SEDS Connect)

Paraeducator Appreciation: Lebanon Public Schools celebrated our paraeducators on April 2. There was some confusion as to whether Paraeducator Appreciation Day was April 1 or April 3. However, in reality every day is paraeducator appreciation day. Each building celebrated their paraeducators in their own way. If you have an extra special paraeducator working with your child, please see the information below.

Paraeducator of the Year Nominations: The nominations for the 2027 Paraeducator of the Year opened on March 24 and will be accepted through April 24. The following document was shared with staff, parents, and is available on our website: 2027 Paraeducator of the Year Nomination Form

Questions: Please contact Dawn DeLia, Director of Pupil Services, with any questions or concerns regarding Special Education, 504s, Child Find, Title IX, or homelessness at 860-642-5734 or dawn.delia@lebanonct.org

Lebanon Public Schools actively seeks to assist children and families by locating, identifying, and referring children from birth to age 22 who require special education and related services. If you are concerned about a child's development, you are encouraged to contact Lebanon Elementary School to receive information about Early Childhood Screenings.

If the child is younger than 3 years of age, you may choose instead to contact the Connecticut Birth to Three System at 1-800-505-7000.

If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact 860-642-5636.

Families, we are sharing this flyer with you again to encourage you to create a FREE MyPaymentsPlus account to make payments, view balances and better understand the purchases your child is making in the cafeteria.

In following our Board of Education Meal Charging Policy (5004) the district will contact the parents/guardians of students who charge meals to their meal accounts in order for the District to collect the delinquent debt. The first such communication will be a written communication, by mail or e-mail. Subsequent written and verbal communications with parents/guardians concerning delinquent debt will be made by the building administrator or designee, as may be necessary and appropriate.

Why Mood Boost?

Emerging research has shown that the foods we eat most often may have an effect on how we

feel, not just physically, but mentally. When a person eats Mood Boost foods regularly,

especially nutrient-rich fruit and vegetables, it can help to elevate his or her mood and enhance

their sense of well-being. Mood Boost foods contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that

communicate with our brain to support personal characteristics such as happy, alert, strong,

calm and confident.

Elementary and middle school students are the ideal groups for the Mood Boost program. This

group of students, known as Generation Z, enjoy the fun and social elements of eating which

Mood Boost delivers. Our aim is to create a fun food environment where students leave the

cafeteria happier and healthier than when they came in.

Mood Boost encourages students to select and eat fruits and vegetables made according to

recipes developed by our chefs that are colorful, delicious and enticing. When you combine the

recipes with fun giveaways for students to enjoy, collect and take home, it creates a perfect

opportunity to encourage students to eat more fruits and vegetables that can improve their

health and mood.

Earlier this month, Lebanon Public Schools proudly recognized Paraeducator Appreciation Day, taking time to celebrate the incredible contributions of our paraeducators across the district.

Our paraeducators play a vital role in bringing our mission to life growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies. Each day, they provide critical support to students and staff, helping to deliver high-quality instruction, foster inclusive learning environments, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Whether working one-on-one with students, supporting small groups, assisting with classroom instruction, or helping students navigate social and emotional challenges, our paraeducators demonstrate patience, compassion, and professionalism in all that they do. Their work is essential to the success of our schools and the well-being of our students.

We are grateful for their dedication, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to the Lebanon Public Schools community. Their impact is felt in every classroom, every day.

Thank you to our paraeducators for the difference you make in the lives of our students.

Sam Barnes was proudly recognized as a Good Citizen Award recipient by the Daughters of the American Revolution. This honor reflects Sam’s strong character, leadership, and commitment to serving others, qualities that embody the very best of our Lebanon community.

Our students had an incredible opportunity to visit Collins & Jewell for a firsthand look at careers in manufacturing and skilled trades.

During the visit, students met with the company’s owner, engaged in meaningful conversations, and asked thoughtful questions about the industry and career pathways. They represented Lebanon Public Schools exceptionally well, demonstrating professionalism, curiosity, and respect throughout the experience.

The tour of the facility provided valuable insight into day-to-day operations, helping students connect classroom learning to real-world applications.

Experiences like this are essential as we continue to expand career pathways and prepare our students to be innovative problem solvers and engaged collaborators.

Thank you to Collins & Jewell for their partnership and for inspiring the next generation!

#LPSPride #CareerPathways #FutureReady #PortraitOfAGraduate

At Lebanon Public Schools, we know that developing graduates who are responsible citizens, effective communicators, critical thinkers, innovative problem solvers, lifelong learners, and engaged collaborators begins with exceptional educators. The Portrait of an Educator recognition celebrates staff members who model these very qualities in their daily practice—empowering students, inspiring colleagues, and advancing our mission of growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies. During the 25-26 school year please be on the lookout for write ups celebrating our teaching team.

At Lebanon Elementary School, Carolyn Provost embodies the heart of the LPS mission growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies through the relationships she builds and the environment she creates for every child. In her classroom, students are not only learners, but valued members of a community where they feel safe, respected, and deeply connected.

Carolyn’s approach is grounded in the belief that every child can grow. By fostering a culture of belonging and emphasizing both high expectations and individualized support, she helps students recognize their own potential, even when they may not yet see it themselves. Through the power of a growth mindset and her consistent message of “yet,” students learn to embrace challenges, persevere through productive struggle, and celebrate their progress. Whether mastering new math concepts or finding the confidence to speak up in class, her students begin to understand that their possibilities are limitless.

What stands out most in Carolyn’s work is her appreciation for the everyday moments. While she celebrates major academic breakthroughs, she finds equal joy in the small but powerful milestones; students resolving conflicts with their own voices, taking risks after overcoming shyness, or achieving personal goals for the first time. These moments, she believes, are where lasting impact lives, and she approaches each one with intention, care, and reflection.

A lifelong learner herself, Carolyn models curiosity and growth for both her students and colleagues. From returning to school to pursue advanced certification later in her career, to engaging in professional learning and bringing new ideas back to her classroom, she demonstrates that learning never stops. Her embrace of research-based practices, including the Science of Reading and project-based learning, reflects her commitment to continually refining her craft to better meet the needs of all learners.

Carolyn’s leadership extends beyond her classroom. As a team leader and collaborative partner, she plays an integral role in strengthening instructional practices and fostering a positive, supportive culture among staff. Her willingness to share ideas, mentor colleagues, and create meaningful experiences, such as STEAM Night, highlights her belief that strong schools are built through collective effort and shared purpose.

When asked what she hopes students remember, Carolyn’s answer is simple yet profound: that she helped them learn how to think and that she cared about them. This philosophy captures the essence of her impact. Her work creates a ripple effect, one where small, intentional actions grow into lasting influences on students, colleagues, and the broader school community.

For Carolyn, teaching is more than a profession—it is "heartwork". And through that "heartwork", she continues to shape not only strong learners, but compassionate, confident individuals ready to make their own mark on the world.

At Lebanon Public Schools, our mission—We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies comes to life each day through the passion and dedication of our educators. Few embody this more authentically than Megan, whose work in agricultural education and FFA creates transformative experiences for our students.

For Megan, the words grow and cultivate are more than just part of our mission they are the foundation of her practice. Through her work with students from freshman year through graduation, she has the unique opportunity to witness, and actively shape, their growth over time. She intentionally pushes students beyond their comfort zones, encouraging them to take risks and pursue opportunities such as Career Development Events (CDEs), leadership conferences, and internships. Through these experiences, students build confidence, discover their strengths, and emerge as capable leaders.

What makes Megan’s impact truly special is the legacy she helps create. Many of her former students return to the program as coaches, judges, and mentors, giving back to the very experiences that shaped them. In doing so, they reinforce a powerful sense of belonging and community that extends far beyond graduation.

Megan models lifelong learning not just through professional development, but by learning alongside her students. Whether hosting guest speakers or engaging in field-based learning, she embraces her role as a co-learner. She demonstrates curiosity, asks questions, and explores new ideas with her students bringing to life the FFA motto: Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.

When reflecting on how she hopes to be remembered, Megan shares that she strives to be “kind but tough.” She sets high expectations because she deeply believes in her students’ potential, while also offering honesty, guidance, and unwavering support. Her impact is evident in the lasting relationships she builds, whether it’s graduates returning to share updates from college and careers, or former students inviting her program to play a role in life milestones like designing flowers for their weddings. These moments speak volumes about the sense of connection and pride she fosters.

Megan is especially proud of the ways she connects her classroom to the broader community. Initiatives such as the Memorial Day geranium planting in partnership with the American Legion and the Sunflower Growing Challenge supported by local businesses provide authentic, hands-on learning while strengthening community ties. These experiences help students understand the real-world importance of agriculture and its impact on everyday life.

Inspired by her own high school agriculture teacher, Megan has worked to recreate that same high-energy, hands-on environment that first sparked her passion. Her classroom is a place where students are actively engaged, learning by doing, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Through her work, Megan is not only teaching agriculture, she is growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating lasting legacies within our school community and beyond.

The Heart of the Harvest recognition honors an individual whose extraordinary commitment, selfless volunteerism, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on Lebanon Public Schools. Like the hands that tend and nurture a thriving harvest, this individual has given generously of their time, talents, and heart—helping to grow learners, cultivate leaders, and create legacies that will benefit generations to come.

Their efforts reflect the very essence of our district’s vision. Whether through steadfast support, behind-the-scenes contributions, or visible acts of service, the recipient of this award embodies the spirit of community and the belief that our schools flourish when we all come together in service of our students. We are proud to recognize their enduring influence and heartfelt commitment to our shared mission.

In this month’s Heart of the Harvest, we are proud to recognize Sarah Haynes for her unwavering commitment to the students, families, and broader community of Lebanon.

Sarah’s journey of service began with a deep appreciation for the close-knit, small-town feel of Lebanon Public Schools. Inspired by the sense of community and connection, she stepped forward to serve on the Board of Education, driven by a desire to give back and support not only her own children, but all students across the district. Like many in our town, Sarah found her “village” here, building lasting relationships with families and raising children together in a supportive and caring environment.

During her time on the Board of Education, Sarah exemplified what it means to lead with purpose. She consistently prioritized the needs of students, contributing to meaningful decisions that helped guide the district forward. From playing a role in the hiring of the superintendent, to helping navigate the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah’s leadership was grounded in thoughtful collaboration and a steadfast focus on student success. Beyond her Board service, she has also dedicated her time to the Lebanon Soccer Board, coached recreational basketball, and actively supported the LES PTA, demonstrating her commitment across multiple facets of our community.

Sarah reflects that her service has reinforced the power of collaboration, how shared ideas, grounded in community input and data, can lead to real progress. Her work has not only impacted Lebanon Public Schools, but has also shaped her personally, allowing her to model the values of leadership, service, and community involvement for her own children.

What makes Lebanon special, Sarah notes, is the strength of its relationships. The genuine care and support that exists among students, staff, and families. It is this spirit that creates opportunities for all students to thrive, both academically and through extracurricular experiences.

Looking ahead, Sarah hopes to see Lebanon Public Schools continue to grow and shine. While she recognizes the importance of maintaining and improving our facilities, she emphasizes that our greatest investment must remain in the development of our students. Through strong partnerships between families and schools, we can continue to cultivate character, integrity, and a strong work ethic in every learner.

Sarah Haynes truly embodies the spirit of Heart of the Harvest—a dedicated community member whose service has helped strengthen Lebanon Public Schools for today and for the future.

For more than two decades, Alexis Margerelli-Hussey has embodied what it means to give back to the Lebanon community. After moving to Lebanon with her family over 20 years ago, she quickly became involved, driven by a deep sense of pride in her town and a belief that everyone has a role to play in strengthening their community.

Alexis began her service through an appointment to the Recreation Commission by the First Selectman—work that continues to this day. Her dedication to creating opportunities for children and families has helped shape meaningful programs and foster strong connections across our town.

Her commitment to Lebanon expanded through eight years of service on the Board of Education. During that time, Alexis played an important role in supporting the district and contributing to key decisions, including the selection of a superintendent. She was a consistent presence at student milestone events—from Moving Up ceremonies to graduation—celebrating the achievements of our students and reinforcing her unwavering belief in their success. Alexis brought a thoughtful focus on student voice to her work, ensuring that decisions remained centered on what is best for learners.

Alexis reflects on her time in service as both challenging and deeply rewarding. Through her experiences, she gained a profound appreciation for the dedication of educators, staff, and fellow board members, and a strengthened belief in the importance of lifelong learning.

Her message to others is simple yet powerful: get involved. Whether big or small, every contribution matters and helps build the strong sense of pride and connection that defines Lebanon. Alexis has not only modeled this belief for her own children but for our entire community.

We are grateful for Alexis Margerelli-Hussey’s continued commitment to Lebanon and the lasting impact she has made—and will continue to make—in supporting our students, schools, and community.

Sabena Escott, MSW sabena.escott@lebanonct.org

Lyman Memorial High School Social Worker and District Family Care Coordinator

LPS Educational, Safety, Mental Health & Food Security Resources & Programs

Mental Health, Town & Community Resources: LPS

Providing students with access to mental health resources within the community and bringing mental health services to students inside of the school has always been a priority in our district. Please reach out if there are any specific mental health topics, community programs, therapeutic referrals or town programs and resources that you would like to know more about. Each month we will share a few programs and resources for students and families.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 25, 2026, from 10am-2pm at locations nationwide. This event, which happens twice a year, is a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs. Find a location near you.

DEA has drug fact sheets, detailing the history, use, street names, scheduling status, and more of various drugs of abuse. Fact sheets- English and Spanish

Resources

• 211: a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week online and over the phone.CT Resources

• Crisis text line: Text 741741 - Free- 24/7- confidential text-based mental health support

• Dial 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline- 24/7

• The Trevor Project The world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ+ young people aged 13 to 24 Online chat Text "START" to 678-678

• Urgent Crisis Center Urgent response for children's mental health crises.

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention AFSP

Resources/Trainings
Mental Health First Aid Certification: MHFA

Education Series: Supporting a Loved One with Mental Health- NAMI

Opioid Overdose Narcan Clinic CT Mental Health & Addiction

Husky Health Benefit Medicaid & Health Insurance Eligibility for Children & Families & Behavioral Health Eligibility & Virtual Eligibility Meetings

Mental health, substance abuse and gambling supports Southeastern Regional Action Council A Community Event for the Whole Family Middletown's Mental Health Fair May 2026

Lebanon public school district values our students and families and supports them by placing an emphasis on their mental health. Please take some time to access the LPS website and review the current LPS Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention policy and protocols. Teacher and student instruction, parent outreach and support along with in house and district crisis teams continue to emphasize the importance of prevention and early intervention.

Additional parent resources can be found at the link for the CT Suicide Advisory Board: Prevent Suicide.

Support staff in your child’s school are available should you have questions or need additional resources.

Resources

• 211: a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week online and over the phone.CT Resources

• Crisis text line: Text 741741 - Free- 24/7- confidential text-based mental health support

• Dial 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline- 24/7

• The Trevor Project The world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ+ young people aged 13 to 24 Online chat Text "START" to 678-678

• Urgent Crisis Center Urgent response for children's mental health crises.

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention AFSP

Resources/Trainings
Mental Health First Aid Certification: MHFA

Education Series: Supporting a Loved One with Mental Health- NAMI

Opioid Overdose Narcan Clinic CT Mental Health & Addiction

Free Dental Clinic CFDO

Cell Phone Technology & Dangerous Apps Registration

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence -local resources and supports

CTCADV.org

Lebanon Social Services Office offers a variety of services to Lebanon children, adults, and seniors. Social Services Administrator Shelly Ashcom works with federal, state, and local organizations to provide assistance to Lebanon residents in need. Town of Lebanon Social Services

Every other Tuesday from 11:15am to 11:45am at the Church of Hope/Red Barn – 26 Pendleton Drive, Hebron, CT. Everyone is welcome and please be sure to bring your own shopping bags. There are no forms to fill out for the mobile distribution.

*The use of the resources/programs in this section are not required by LPS to be used by parents/guardians. They are recommendations only.*

Call or text a trained crisis counselor to talk:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. They’re free and available 24/7:
  Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

• Trevor Project (crisis intervention & suicide prevention for the LGBTQ community): 1-866-488-7386 or Text 678678

• Crisis Text Line: text CTL to 741741

NIMH offers brochures and fact sheets on mental health disorders and related topics for children, adolescents and their families. Printed materials can be ordered free of charge. Brochures and fact sheets in English and Spanish.

Housing and Homeless Services can be accessed through Coordinated Access Networks (CAN). Persons are prioritized for housing services based on an assessment to be completed after calling 211.

Housing and Homeless Services

Lebanon Public Schools is now in the App Store. On your phones, in the "app store" you can search Lebanon Public Schools and you should see our logo. Please install as another way to get notifications and news from our school district.

Scan these QR Codes and be brought to our Lebanon Public Schools webpage or the Superintendent Instagram page!

The Lebanon Public Schools, in partnership with families and the community, will prepare students to be contributing members of a diverse global society. We will provide a safe, nurturing, rigorous, and student-centered learning environment.

The school community of Lebanon is committed to the mission of honoring and celebrating the diversity of our students, our community, and our nation. We strive to guide our students to conscious, deliberate, individual and collective actions that cultivate the respect of all races, religions, and social backgrounds. Our school community endeavors to produce graduates who are equipped with a greater understanding of the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Lebanon Board of Education, in compliance with federal and state law, affirms its policy of equal educational opportunity for all students and equal employment opportunity for all persons. It is the policy of the District to promote nondiscrimination and an environment free of harassment and the District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, alienage, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other category protected under state or federal law in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its program or activities. The District also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups and is specifically required by Title IX not to discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs and activities. The District shall make reasonable accommodations for individuals with identified physical and mental impairments that constitute disabilities, consistent with federal and state statutes and regulations.

The following person has been designated to handle inquires regarding Title IX sex discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, Title IX Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding other non-discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, 504/ADA Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764

Email: andrew.gonzalez@lebanonct.org
Website: https://www.lebanonct.org/
Location: 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT, USA
Phone: 860-642-5637