Lebanon Public Schools
Superintendent Gonzalez's May 2026 Update
Growing Learners, Cultivating Leaders, Creating Legacies!
Leadership and Learning are indispensable to each other
– John F. Kennedy
May in LPS
As we move through the month of May, the Lebanon Public Schools community continues to bring our vision to life, We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies. This is a busy and exciting time across all three schools, filled with opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning, showcase their talents, and engage in meaningful experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
At Lyman Memorial High School, students are actively engaged in a wide range of academic and career-connected experiences. Our Vo-Ag students have designed ornaments that will be displayed at the White House as part of a national holiday celebration. Lebanon Public Schools was nominated by the Connecticut State Department of Education to participate in this prestigious opportunity, recognizing the strength of our agricultural education program and the talent of our students. This project not only highlights student creativity and craftsmanship, but also provides a unique opportunity for our students to represent Lebanon on a national stage, something our entire community can take great pride in.
In addition, our high school students continue to explore future pathways through meaningful, real-world experiences. This month, students attended a manufacturing career fair field trip, providing direct exposure to local industry partners and career opportunities in high-demand fields. This experience, along with our expanding programming such as the development of our welding pathway, reflects our commitment to ensuring students are prepared for learning, life, and work beyond high school. At the same time, students are preparing for and taking exams, demonstrating the knowledge and skills they have built throughout the year.
Across the district, standardized assessments are underway, including Smarter Balanced testing and the state physical fitness assessments. While these assessments provide important data to inform our work, they also reflect the consistent effort our students have put forth throughout the year. At Lebanon Middle School, students continue to grow academically and socially, with highlights including the induction of new members into the Lebanon Junior Honors Society an achievement that recognizes both scholarship and character.
At Lebanon Elementary School, our youngest learners are thriving in a joyful and engaging environment. Events such as Donuts with Grown-Ups and the Spring Book Fair will bring families into our schools, strengthening the home-school connection that is so vital to student success.
May is also a time to celebrate creativity and community across the entire district. Our annual Mayfest is an art collaboration and celebration, showcasing student work from our district and highlighting the importance of the arts in fostering expression, connection, and pride in our learning community. In addition, spring music concerts across all schools are showcasing the hard work and dedication of our student musicians and staff.
And of course, no May would be complete without a little friendly competition. The Chartwells High School Cook-Off Battle brought creativity and excitement to our school, and I had the distinct honor (and responsibility) of serving as a guest judge.
Beyond our schools, we remain actively engaged at the state level. I attended the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Legislative Wrap-Up Conference to stay informed on the latest developments impacting public education. This year, we anticipate updates on several pieces of legislation that will influence the 2026–2027 school year, including new reporting requirements for school districts, continued focus on student mental health supports, and potential adjustments to special education processes and funding. In addition, there is ongoing discussion around accountability measures, early literacy initiatives aligned to the Science of Reading, and workforce development efforts that strengthen connections between high schools and career pathways. Staying informed on these topics allows us to proactively plan and ensure we are meeting both state expectations and the needs of our students.
As we look ahead to the final weeks of the school year, we are proud of all that our students, staff, and families have accomplished together.
Update from Rita Quiles-Glover, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Since 1949, May has been recognized as National Mental Health Awareness Month. As educators, mentors, parents, colleagues, and friends, we must acknowledge an important reality: according to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five Americans lives with a mental health condition.
As part of Connecticut’s continued efforts to support children’s mental health and well-being, Governor Ned Lamont has designated May 26 each year as Get Outside and Play for Children’s Mental Health Day. The purpose of this initiative is to raise awareness of the positive impact outdoor activity can have on children’s emotional wellness, resilience, and overall mental health.
On May 26, Lebanon students will participate in lessons and cooperative activities that incorporate outdoor play and movement shown to support mental well-being. Activities may include a multiplication basketball game, creating nature-inspired poetry outdoors, chalk art, nature observation journaling, rock painting, and other engaging experiences designed to promote creativity, connection, and stress reduction.
Families can continue to support children’s mental health at home by encouraging outdoor play, physical activity, and opportunities to explore and connect with nature.
Update from Dawn DeLia Pupil Services Director
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)
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
Child Find
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.
2025-2026 LPS Calendar
BoE Approved 2026-2027 Calendar
Lebanon Public Schools Spotlight
Breaking News
Lyman Memorial is proud to announce that our new partnership with Electric Boat has resulted in the following 8 students being offered full-time employment at the premier submarine builder in the world!
These 8 students applied and were interviewed and came away with great paying jobs following graduation in June. All of us at Lyman greatly value the relationship established with Electric Boat and look forward to working together with EB as we roll out the new welding program in the Fall of 2026!
Maddie Ayer - Shipfitting
Ethan Apicelli - Design
Ben Christiansen - Pipefitting
Aiden Raulukaitis - Pipefitting
Aaron Rodriguez - Electrical
Kaden Sorits - Electrical
Anthony Mathieu - Welding
Lexie Theriault - Welding
Manufacturing Career Field Trip
Lebanon Public Schools students had an incredible experience at the Manufacturing Career Field Trip!
Students had the opportunity to connect directly with local manufacturing employers, learning about career pathways, workplace opportunities, and the many benefits these companies offer their employees. We are especially excited to share that two of our students earned interviews with potential employers as a result of the event!
Beyond networking, students participated in a variety of engaging, hands-on learning experiences including:
🔹 Mock interviews with personalized feedback to strengthen interview skills
🔹 A LEGO blueprint and assembly competition to test teamwork and problem-solving
🔹 A financial literacy presentation focused on real-world readiness
🔹 Nine different VR career exploration activities
🔹 Hands-on experiences inside a mobile manufacturing lab
This event provided students with meaningful exposure to high-demand career opportunities while helping them build important workforce readiness skills. Experiences like this continue to support our mission to prepare every student for learning, life, and work beyond school.
Thank you to the organizers, presenters, and local industry partners who made this amazing experience possible for our students!
#LebanonPublicSchools #WeGrowLearners #WorkforceDevelopment #ManufacturingCareers #CollegeAndCareerReady #FutureReady
🌎✨ Happy Earth Day from our youngest learners! ✨🌎
Our preschool friends have been hard at work helping sort materials and create a special Earth Day bulletin board! Along the way, they explored how we can turn everyday items into meaningful art by reusing and recycling materials.
It’s never too early to learn that even small actions can make a big difference. We’re proud of our students for taking care of our planet and showing what it means to be responsible citizens in our community.
🎶✨ What an unforgettable musical experience! ✨🎶
Our students had an incredible time visiting the Garde Arts Center for the Link Up concert with the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra!
After weeks of preparation, our students didn’t just sit and listen—they became part of the performance, singing and playing along on their recorders right from their seats.
This marks our third year participating in this amazing opportunity, and it continues to be a highlight for our students—blending preparation, performance, and joy in a truly memorable way.
We’re so proud of our young musicians for their enthusiasm and engagement!
#LPSPride #GrowingLearners #MusicEducation #LearningInAction
Record Broken
And just like that 42 years of History erased. Luke DePiano broke a 42 year old School record in men's discus during the Lyman versus Putnam track meet. He threw an impressive 136 ft 2 in. He's only a sophomore with more big throws to come. Congratulations Luke on this milestone accomplishment.
Portrait of an Educator
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.
Kate Cofrancesco
At Lebanon Middle School, Kate Cofrancesco brings the district’s mission—Growing Learners, Cultivating Leaders, and Creating Legacies—to life each day through her work in the library and exploratory classrooms. By empowering students to take ownership of their learning, Kate encourages them to pursue research topics that genuinely interest them while developing essential information literacy skills. From critically evaluating sources to navigating digital and print resources, her work ensures that students are not only successful learners today, but also confident, lifelong users of libraries and information.
Kate’s impact is most evident in the meaningful connections she builds with students. She finds great pride in helping each learner discover the “right” book—whether that means engaging a reluctant reader or guiding an avid one toward their next favorite author or series. She understands that small successes matter, often highlighting incremental progress to help students see their own potential. Through this approach, she fosters confidence and reminds students that growth happens step by step.
Her practice is deeply student-centered and adaptable. In her classes, students choose their own research paths, and Kate meets them where they are—even when it means learning alongside them. This flexibility not only personalizes learning but also models curiosity and openness. Beyond her classroom, Kate is a valued collaborator, supporting colleagues by curating resources, creating tools to help students access high-quality information, and maintaining the library as a welcoming, flexible space for both independent and collaborative work.
Kate also embraces innovation as a means to enhance learning. She has explored and integrated emerging AI tools, such as NotebookLM, to help students engage with complex information in accessible and creative ways, including podcasts, videos, and differentiated reading formats. She extends this learning to colleagues by sharing new tools, resources, and strategies—modeling the mindset of a lifelong learner.
When reflecting on her impact, Kate describes herself as a “connector.” This is evident in every aspect of her work—connecting students to books, to information, to new skills, and to opportunities for creativity through expanded makerspace offerings. Under her leadership, the library has evolved into a dynamic learning hub, offering not only a rich collection of texts but also access to databases, technology, and hands-on learning experiences.
Kate Kate Cofrancesco ’s work exemplifies what it means to cultivate a culture of curiosity, inclusion, and growth. Her dedication ensures that every student and staff member who walks into the library feels welcomed, supported, and inspired—leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the walls of Lebanon Middle School.
Erin Pistel
At Lebanon Public Schools, we are fortunate to have educators whose impact extends far beyond the classroom—and Erin Pistel is a shining example of that lasting influence.
For Erin, the “why” behind her work is found in both the small, everyday breakthroughs and the moments that come full circle years later. Whether it’s a student grasping a concept for the first time or receiving a heartfelt letter from a former student reflecting on their time in her classroom, these experiences serve as powerful reminders of the lasting difference educators make. One such letter, filled with vivid memories and appreciation, brought Erin to tears—an affirmation of the deep connections she builds with her students.
Erin is deeply committed to helping every student recognize their unique strengths and potential. In her classroom, students learn that intelligence comes in many forms—whether it’s “art smarts,” “music smarts,” or “math smarts.” She fosters a culture grounded in perseverance and growth, often reminding students that they may not understand something yet, but with grit and determination, they will. Her students echo this message in their own words: “Keep working on it,” “Do your best,” and “Even if you don’t get the best grade, I’m proud of you.” With messages like “Mistakes are proof that you are trying” displayed in her classroom, Erin creates a safe and encouraging environment where students feel empowered to take risks and grow.
Collaboration is another cornerstone of Erin’s practice. She works closely with her colleagues in weekly team meetings, sharing ideas, refining lessons, and aligning supports to ensure all students succeed. She speaks with gratitude about her team, noting how their shared commitment and collective expertise inspire her daily and elevate outcomes for every learner.
Over her 24 years in Lebanon, Erin has built not only a career, but a legacy rooted in relationships. She treasures the opportunity to work with generations of families, often welcoming siblings of former students into her classroom—a full-circle moment that reflects the strong connections she has cultivated within the community. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Once you’re my kiddo, you’re always my kiddo.” It’s a message that resonates deeply with students and families alike and speaks to the enduring care she provides.
Erin’s journey into education was inspired by her own sixth-grade teacher, Miss Cleary, whose passion and creativity left a lasting impression. From engaging read-alouds to memorable classroom experiences, those early influences helped shape Erin into the educator she is today—one who brings joy, warmth, and purpose to her classroom each day.
Through her unwavering dedication, compassionate approach, and belief in every child’s potential, Erin Pistel truly embodies our mission of growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies.
Heart of the Harvest
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.
Steve Wrona
In Lebanon Public Schools, we are fortunate to have individuals whose commitment to our students and staff goes far beyond their role—and Armed Security Officer Steve Wrona exemplifies that spirit of service.
After a distinguished career in law enforcement, Steve was drawn to Lebanon Public Schools by a deep understanding of the importance of school safety and the role trusted adults play in creating secure, supportive environments for students. His experience, combined with his passion for protecting and mentoring young people, made this role a natural fit.
What stands out most about Steve is not only his vigilance, but his presence. Whether greeting families in the morning, connecting with students in the hallway, or checking in with staff throughout the day, he is a consistent and reassuring figure across all three of our schools. He intentionally makes time to be visible and approachable—visiting classrooms, building relationships, and ensuring that every member of our community feels seen, supported, and safe.
Steve often reflects that the most meaningful feedback comes in the simple “thank you” he receives from students, staff, and families. Those daily interactions serve as a powerful reminder that his work matters and that his presence contributes to a sense of security that allows teaching and learning to flourish.
Since joining LPS in April 2025, Steve has embraced our community with gratitude, noting how welcoming and appreciative our staff and students have been from day one. He has also been struck by the strong sense of community that defines Lebanon—the willingness to support one another, the pride in our schools, and the turnout at events that celebrate our students’ achievements.
At his core, Steve is driven by a simple but powerful goal: that every student, staff member, and family member feels safe when they walk through our doors. He understands that safety is not just about preparedness—it is about relationships, trust, and presence.
We are grateful for Steve’s dedication, his professionalism, and the care he brings to our district each and every day. He truly represents the Heart of the Harvest in Lebanon Public Schools.
District Family Care Coordinator
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.
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
May Update
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.
May is Mental Health Awareness month. This year’s theme is "More Good Days, Together”- At LPS, we continue to support our students and have open conversations about mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Please reach out to support staff at your children’s school at any time. No matter how you are feeling right now, remember: more good days are possible, help is available, and you are not alone.
Resources are always available:
Crisis text line: Text 741741 - Free, 24/7, confidential text-based mental health support
Call/Text 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7
The Trevor Project The world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people aged 13 to 24 Online chat Text "START" to 678-678
Urgent Crisis Center Urgent response for children's mental health crises.
Mental Health First Aid Certification: MHFA
Education Series: Supporting a Loved One with Mental Health- NAMI
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention AFSP
211: a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24/7 hours CT Resources
Additional Resources/Trainings for Mental Health Month
Kids Health-Nemour A comprehensive website with information for parents, children
and teens on health, mental health, social issues, and more.
Healthy Children- American Academy of Pediatrics
This parenting website features information on physical and emotional health of children ages 0 to young adults.
AIM Tool The AIM Tool helps match services to a
young person’s mental health or
substance use problem.
Carelon Connects families to community programs and services for mental health, substance use, and more. Call 1-877-381-4193.
More Good Days Together Virtual Wellness
Lebanon Social Services
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
The CT Foodshare Mobile Distribution
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.*
Need Help? In a Crisis? Want to Talk to Somebody?
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.orgTrevor Project (crisis intervention & suicide prevention for the LGBTQ community): 1-866-488-7386 or Text 678678
Crisis Text Line: text CTL to 741741
Housing and Homeless Services Unit
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.
Lebanon Public Schools App
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Mission Statement
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.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement of the Lebanon Public Schools:
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.
Nondiscrimination Statement of the Lebanon Public Schools:
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
Lebanon Public Schools
Email: andrew.gonzalez@lebanonct.org
Website: https://www.lebanonct.org/
Location: 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT, USA
Phone: 860-642-5637