RPS Update

Time is a funny thing—it moves both slowly and all at once. There are moments over the past six years that feel like they just happened, and others that feel like a lifetime ago. This week marks six years since I began as Superintendent, on a day none of us will ever forget as schools closed indefinitely due to a global pandemic. It was an unusual beginning.

Looking back, it has been both an incredibly rewarding and, at times, a very complex journey. Through uncertainty, change, and moments that required us to stretch in ways we hadn’t anticipated, this community has shown resilience and care.

I remember when I was being interviewed for the position of Superintendent, I was asked what word I would use to best describe myself that couldn’t be found in my application. My answer was “brave.” At the time, it felt like the right word—it spoke to how I tend to approach difficult situations. I’ve always believed in facing things directly, even when the path forward is unclear or a little uncomfortable.

Six years later, I see that word differently. Leadership has a way of refining your understanding of yourself, especially in moments of difficulty or when the path forward isn’t obvious.

I’ve learned that bravery isn’t about having the answers. It’s about being willing to move forward without them. It’s about listening deeply to students, staff, and families, and making decisions that reflect both care and responsibility. It’s about being honest when things are complex, and steady when things feel uncertain.

Some of the most meaningful moments for me have come from listening to students. Hearing what school feels like from their lens: their pressures, questions, and thoughts on the decisions adults are making for them. They are navigating so much, often quietly, and with far more awareness than we realize. They remind me that courage isn’t something reserved for adults in leadership roles; it’s something our young people practice every day.

A few years ago, my daughter Gabriela would quite literally hide behind my legs in new situations. Recently (like this past week) she traveled to Nicaragua alone—an unfamiliar place, surrounded by people she didn’t know. Gabriela opened herself to learning, experiencing, and seeing the world through a completely different lens. Gabby’s shift didn’t happen overnight, and it didn’t happen without belief, encouragement, and opportunities to take risks supported by the adults and peers around her. And, a very nervous mom.

That’s the work we do. We create spaces where students feel safe enough to take those steps, supported enough to try, and challenged enough to grow into versions of themselves they (and we) may not yet fully see. And in many ways, that same expectation exists for all of us. Six years in, I’m still learning what it means to lead with bravery. And maybe that’s the point. Bravery isn’t something you arrive at, but something you continue to practice with those who expect the best of you, challenge you, and support you along the way.

We are facing challenges. We have the team—my leadership colleagues, our great RPS faculty and staff, caring town Boards, and families—to face them. Over the past six years, it has truly been a gift to build this district alongside such an extraordinary group of people.

Have a great break, Passover, Easter. My next communication will be on Friday, April 17.

Warmly,

Susie

Susie Da Silva, Ed.D

“All the teachers are so nice and funny.”

—2025 participant in Jumpstart Kindergarten, as told by her parent

RPS PTA Council Co-Presidents Lorraine Catalano and Mary Jo Salgado reached out last night to report that Superintendent Dr. Susie Da Silva is the recipient of the 2026 Connecticut PTA Outstanding Educator Award. This news came on Dr. Da Silva's sixth anniversary at RPS and marks the invaluable collaboration between PTAs and the District. The award will be celebrated at a banquet in May.

The Connecticut PTA Outstanding Educator Award is a statewide recognition program honoring educators who go above and beyond to support students, partner with families, and strengthen the school community.

In their letter of nomination, the PTA Council cites Dr. Da Silva's commitment to students, her collaborative style, and skillful communication. They write, "What stands out most is her unwavering focus on students—every decision, every initiative, and every conversation ultimately returns to what is best for children. Her ability to lead with clarity, compassion, and purpose has had a lasting and meaningful influence on the Ridgefield community."

Supporting this nomination was a community effort. Letters of recommendation were gathered from parents, teachers, a principal, a fellow administrator, and a representative of the town.

Congratulations, Susie! Thank you to Lorraine, Mary, and all our PTA partners. We are absolutely Better Together!

Last week, Director of Educational Technology Dr. Wes DeSantis and RHS Assistant Principal Michael Yagid sat down for a casual conversation aimed at demystifying the world of Artificial Intelligence. Their presentation, "Parent Guide to Generative AI," offers an overview of the RPS approach to this evolving technology, covering everything from basic definitions and district policy to the art of effective prompt design. Beyond the technical side, they shared practical ways parents can use AI to assist their children with learning and organization. You can access the full recording and supplemental resources on the RPS Curriculum site.

RPS has put a lot of thought into our Summer Programs to offer appealing, affordable options for every interest and age. From courses for high school credit to help juniors and seniors fill graduation requirements to Jumpstart Kindergarten and Summer Bridge, summer programs are taught by RPS teachers. Please scroll through to see new additions and perennial favorites. Deadlines are approaching fast. Student volunteers needed!

Students of any grade level K-12 may apply for this free opportunity to be a Best Buddy. In past years, parents have reported that this has been an extremely valuable experience for their child. Also, RHS students can volunteer to help at Summer Bridge to gain valuable work experience and have fun; Visit the Volunteer page to learn more.

Summer Bridge programs are open to all Ridgefield residents and staff children.

Watch the PROMO Video to learn more about new, fun Art, Theater, and Sports programs for rising fourth and fifth graders. Filling fast, so register your students here ASAP.

Many of us are parents and know how hard it can be to keep middle and early high school students engaged in the summer. That's why we've created an amazing summer bridge experience with something for everyone. Pickleball, robotics, sewing, acting, baking, jamming with RHS Band Director George Beratis, chess, designing your own Food Truck—these are just some of the amazing offerings this summer for rising 6-9th-grade students. All classes are taught by RPS teachers.

See the Visual and Performing Arts opportunities in this graphic.

Both East Ridge and Scotts Ridge host Jump Start to Middle School, a free program that smooths the transition from Elementary to Middle School. Students meet teachers, open lockers, and meet friends in this low-stakes, high-reward two-day program. Note: The deadline for this program is April 30; late registration is not possible. Register ASAP!

The first session of Jump Start High School is full, so please register your rising ninth grader for session two July 14th-15th, from 9 am-12 pm. This course, taught by RHS teachers Liz Karlan and Jennifer DeJulio, is designed to support incoming ninth graders as they prepare for the exciting transition to high school. The two-day program will provide students with opportunities to connect with peers, tour the school, and gain familiarity with the staff, course offerings, and extracurriculars. Students will also develop valuable tools and skills to excel in their high school coursework from the “jump.”

Rising Grade 9 parents, also check out High School Foundations and Crime Scene Investigations under Course Offerings.

Find more information about cost, content, and how these courses fill graduation requirements here. Deadline, May 1

TIPS for April Break:

The Scotts Ridge Counseling Department sent out its quarterly newsletter this week. We wanted to share their advice for an April Break Reset, which might help families connect. The advice is geared toward middle school, but might have information applicable to all ages. Here is a link to the Counseling Chronicles to see all their advice for connection.

Please check your school calendar for early dismissal and school events.

All registration information, including eligibility, can be found here.

Please help RPS go green by checking your students' e-Backpack weekly for important information.

There is a college for every student, but with thousands of schools across the country, how do you know which one to choose? On Tuesday evening, Rob Franek, Editor-in-Chief of the Princeton Review, joined the RHS Counseling Department for a lively discussion on how to find your best-fit college. Mr. Franek spoke to students and parents about building their college list and what admission officers care about the most. This timely presentation followed our Junior Counseling Seminars, which focused on the college admissions process. Mr. Franek is a nationally recognized college admissions expert and bestselling author who has guided millions of students and families through the college admissions process. He has appeared on major news outlets like Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, and FOX News.

The RHS English Department reports having great success in the Letters about Literature competition. Congratulations to Sandhya Narasimha, who was a finalist for her letter to Sally Rooney about the novel Normal People. Semifinalists include sophomores Daniel Tiktin and Eleanor Idone, and first-years Ciara Cortina, Raina Choi, Beatrice Madeira, Sloane Keane, Evan Hyla, Stella Joynt, Owen Edson, Pia Rafoss, Katie Block, Charlotte Sprecht, and Thomas Casey. Letters make us think of the novel, The Correspondent.

It takes more than just a passing interest to master a second language; it takes years of dedication, curiosity, and practice. Senior Martim Dias Pinto (left) and Junior Samuel Turok are the nominees for the American Association of Teachers of French CT Tom Betts Senior and Alberta Conte Junior Prizes. These students have not only excelled in the classroom, but they also took the initiative to complete the application process for this statewide honor. To be considered, they submitted graded writing samples, provided academic transcripts, crafted thoughtful essays on their dedication to future French studies, and had a live interview. Congratulations, Martin and Samuel, for your academic perseverance and for representing our French program with such distinction. Bravo!

Recently, East Ridge Middle School held a History Day Fair, which was an opportunity for eighth graders to share their original research projects as part of CT History Day. Working individually or in teams, students chose a wide variety of topics from the Lakota Ghost Dance, The Miracle on Ice, The Library of Alexandria, Shay’s Rebellion, to Artist and Holocaust Survivor Edith Birkin. The theme this year was Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History, related to the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The majority of ERMS students opted to present their theses and supporting material in trifold exhibits, but students also built websites, edited videos, and wrote papers. Sixth and seventh-grade students and teachers visited the fair to talk to ERMS historians. This project also opened up the opportunity for RPS students to compete in CT History Day regional competitions. Students Noah Cullen, Shreya Majalatti, Kathryn Purdue, and Suchetha Rao elected to attend the regional competition. Suchetha’s project, Hedy Lamarr: Stardom, Stereotypes, and Securing Wireless Communications, earned first place in the Junior Individual Exhibit category and the opportunity to continue in the CT competition. Best of luck in the next round, Suchetha!

Last week's RPS Update had an incorrect result posted for East Ridge rankings. The corrected graphic is below.

RHS seniors Marc Cabán and Leigh Kovalsky were honored at the 2026 Connecticut Association of Schools High School Outstanding Arts Award Banquet on Tuesday. The banquet, which took place at the Aqua Turf Country Club in Plantsville, CT, celebrated the achievements and talent of Connecticut's top high school visual and performing arts students. RHS art teacher Dana Phelan and music teacher Lauren Verney Fink accompanied the students and their families to this wonderful celebration.

Last weekend, Ridgefield students and music teachers showcased their talents at the annual Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) Educators Conference and All-State Festival.

On Friday, the combined East Ridge and Scotts Ridge Chamber Orchestra performed at the CMEA Educators Conference as the "Showcase Ensemble." Earning this prestigious title for the annual event was no small feat. The Middle School Chamber Orchestra was selected through a rigorous, extensive application process that required the submission of performance videos, director biographies, and detailed information about our music program.

Under the direction of Shane Peters and Juliana Chetcuti, our talented students rose to the occasion. They captivated an audience of distinguished music educators and peers from other showcase ensembles with a challenging and ambitious program. Their impressive performance pushed well beyond typical middle school boundaries, featuring high school-level repertoire with complex works by Tchaikovsky, Atwell, John Williams, and Holst.

The ensemble was honored to have Assistant Superintendent Cory Gillette make the trip to Hartford to accompany them and show her support. Beyond the excitement of the performance itself, the students enjoyed a full, rewarding day of rehearsal, camaraderie, and bonding as they celebrated this outstanding musical achievement together.

Congratulations to our outstanding students: Lucas Aguilar, Claire Campbell, Nora Carcelen Cole, Sarah Chaikivsky, Victoria Cheng, Arpad Darvas Hagen, Eleora Ebenezer, Chance Griffin, Nathan Kim, Yeseul Lee, Lauren Lila, Emma Lin, James McNamara, Lena Park, Jane Park, Ian Perry, Vivienne Rhodebeck, Mia Steixner, April Steixner, Yutang Su, Lucas Tejada, Peyton Weber, Evelyn Young, and Catherine Zhuang.

Nine RHS students represented RPS at the CMEA All-State Festival in Hartford. Earning a spot in an All-State ensemble is a major accomplishment and recognition of countless hours of practice and rehearsal. The process begins in the late summer/fall with students preparing to audition for Western Regionals. Those who qualify then audition for the All-State ensemble, competing against the state's most talented musicians. The festival itself is an intense two-and-a-half-day experience, involving rehearsals of challenging seminal repertoire under the guidance of leading conductors in music education and musicianship. The festival culminates in a final concert that consistently amazes the audience.

Congratulations to orchestra members (photo above): Julie McNamara, Ryan Zhou, Claudia Padilla, Hencheng Peng, and Ethan Dawson, and to choir members (photo below) Leigh Kovalsky, Jonathan Waymire, Olivia Hsiung, and Isabella Lodato, for earning All-State invites.

Branchville Principal Keith Margolus and Assistant Principal Keri Tighe dressed like Gerald and Piggy for Mo Willems ' Day in BES kindergarten classrooms.

Ridgebury Elementary put on the enchanting musical Finding Nemo, JR Beyond the lessons learned from this classic coming-of-age story, students learned about teamwork, practice, perseverance, and the joy of performance. Please view the Playbill for all staff, students, and families involved in bringing this great show to life. Watch the Ridgebury TV promo video to learn what some of the students liked best about the play.

Last week, Scotland Elementary put on the musical The Lion King Kids. Students learned more than that "Hakuna Matata" means "No Worries", as they worked together to pull off a great show. Please see the show's Playbill to see the cast, crew, staff, and families involved.

Photo credit: Jessica Brown of JW Brown Photography

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