The Gilbert School E-News

Students, Families, Faculty, and Staff,

As we enter the month of December and prepare for the close of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished and the exciting opportunities still ahead. The winter season brings a unique sense of reflection and renewal—an opportunity to look back with gratitude and forward with optimism.

This past fall was filled with meaningful moments at Gilbert. From strong academic progress across grade levels to memorable athletic performances and community events, our students continue to show tremendous determination, creativity, and pride. Our newly refreshed gymnasium has already become a hub of activity and celebration, and the energy within our classrooms remains focused and inspiring as students prepare for midterms and final projects before the holiday break.

As we move into December, our school community turns its attention toward service, reflection, and togetherness. Our winter concerts, seasonal drives, and community outreach efforts remind us of the compassion and generosity that define the Gilbert spirit. Whether students are performing on stage, competing on the court, volunteering in the community, or striving toward academic goals, their commitment continues to make us proud.

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to:

Our Students:
Thank you for your hard work, your enthusiasm, and your willingness to grow. Your efforts make Gilbert a vibrant place every single day.

Our Faculty and Staff:
Your dedication to excellence and your care for each student remain the backbone of our success. Thank you for everything you do.

Our Parents and Guardians:
We are grateful for your partnership and continued support. Your involvement—both big and small—helps our students thrive.

As we approach the winter break, I encourage each of you to take time to rest, celebrate, and enjoy meaningful moments with those closest to you. May this season bring warmth, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose for the year ahead.

Wishing you a peaceful and inspiring December.

With deepest appreciation,
Michael Susi, Head of School

Last month, The Gilbert School proudly held our annual Veterans Day Ceremony, a meaningful tradition that brings our school community together to honor the brave men and women who have served our country.

Students, staff, families, and local veterans gathered in the auditorium for a heartfelt program recognizing the service, sacrifice, and courage of those who have defended our freedoms. The event included student speakers, musical performances, and thoughtful tributes that reflected deep gratitude and respect.

Veterans in attendance were individually recognized, and our students had the opportunity to learn directly from their experiences, an invaluable reminder of the importance of service, community, and patriotism. The ceremony not only honored our guests but also helped students understand the true impact of Veterans Day and why it continues to hold such significance.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the veterans who joined us, the students and staff who helped organize the program, and the families and community members who supported this special event. The Gilbert School is grateful to carry on this tradition of remembrance and respect.

The Gilbert School is more than just a place of learning—it is a community built on meaningful traditions that bring us together. One of our most treasured traditions is providing extra support to local families during the holiday season. Each year, thanks to the generosity of our faculty, staff, and the wider Gilbert community, we proudly run our annual Thanksgiving Meals Program, which provides complete holiday dinners to families in need.

Last year, this program supported approximately 50 families, ensuring they could enjoy a full and traditional Thanksgiving meal. This year, our community once again came together to continue this important tradition. Through collective kindness and commitment, we helped even more families share a warm meal and create lasting holiday memories.

We are grateful for everyone who contributed to making this year’s Thanksgiving Meals Program a success!

The Gilbert School was proud to once again host the Aerial Drone Competition on November 22nd, kicking off Thanksgiving week with an exciting day of STEM skill, teamwork, and school spirit.

Teams from across the region joined our own TGS Drone Teams to compete in the REC Foundation’s Aerial Drone Competition.

Students demonstrated impressive piloting and programming abilities as they navigated drones through obstacle courses, completed teamwork challenges, and showcased months of preparation. With doors opening at 7:30 AM and matches running into the afternoon, it was a full and energetic day on campus. The event brought students, families, and supporters together to cheer on participants and celebrate innovation.

Thank you to everyone who helped make “The Flight Before the Feast” a success, we can’t wait to continue this growing tradition!

In November, The Gilbert School hosted a lively and inspiring Open Mic Night, welcoming students and faculty to take the stage and share their talents with the school community. The event created a warm, supportive atmosphere where performers of all kinds! Singers, musicians, poets, comedians, and storytellers, were encouraged to express themselves.

The evening highlighted the incredible creativity within our school, with acts ranging from heartfelt musical performances to original poetry and entertaining group numbers. Audience members filled the space with cheers and encouragement, making it a truly inclusive and uplifting experience for everyone involved.Events like Open Mic Night showcase the unique voices and talents that make Gilbert such a vibrant community.

We are grateful to the students and faculty who performed, supported, and helped organize this memorable evening. We look forward to seeing this tradition grow even stronger in the months ahead!

The Project Graduation Committee for the Class of 2026 (comprised of Parent Volunteers) is running their first fundraiser of the year. Please consider donating to help us achieve our goal in providing a fun and safe celebration for the Graduating class. The link provided gives a more detailed description of why we are raising funds. The Project Graduation is paid for solely through community, family, and friend donations as well as organized fundraising events. Please share this link with family/friends. Any amount helps us get closer to our goal. This particular fundraiser will run from now until April 2026. Stay tuned for more fundraising events as the year continues!

Article by Karen Pfeffer, Library Media Specialist

TGS ESports concluded their fall season with an even 4 match wins and 4 match losses. Their ranking rose to 22nd out of 48 participating teams in the state. Captained by Seniors Tobin Gangi and Aiden Southworth, the team will continue to practice during the off season as they prepare for the upcoming spring 2026 season.

The competitive team includes Tobin and Aiden as well as Junior Clover Gangi. In addition, the team added three new freshmen this year. Freshman Penelope Goldie experienced her first competitive game this year as a substitute during the regular season. Additional assistance from Donavan Ricci and Illeana Goldie is expected as Spring season overlaps with Drama season. Recently, the team held an on site practice/party to celebrate their season.

Article by Karen Pfeffer, Library Media Specialist

This month, members of the GSA (Gender and Sexuality Alliance) came together to work on several exciting pride initiatives within our school community. Students began a passion project creating pony bead bracelets that represent personal pronouns and serve as a symbol of both identity and GSA pride. These bracelets will be shared within the school to help promote awareness, visibility, and inclusivity.

In addition, the group is hard at work planning a spring T-shirt fundraiser. GSA members will be designing original T-shirt concepts and will soon invite The Gilbert School community to vote on their favorite design. The chosen design will be produced and sold later this spring, with shirts arriving in time for Pride Month. We look forward to seeing the creativity and leadership of our GSA students shine as they continue their mission of fostering acceptance and celebration throughout our school!

All proceeds from this initiative will proudly support the Class of 2027, helping fund future class events, activities, and memorable experiences for our students. Purchases may be made through any Class of 2027 advisor or at all upcoming home basketball games for both our girls’ and boys’ teams.

We invite our community to join us in supporting the Class of 2027 and contributing to the success of their future endeavors.

Article by Madison Fritch, Communications Coordinator

The Gilbert School’s Sarah Frechette Named Co-Chair of Connecticut State Latin & Greek Day

Veteran Latin Teacher to Help Lead One of Connecticut’s Largest Classical Culture Events

WINSTED, CT – The Gilbert School is proud to announce that Latin teacher Sarah Frechette has been appointed Co-Chair of Connecticut State Latin and Greek Day, a statewide event celebrating classical languages, ancient history, and cultural traditions. Her leadership marks a significant milestone for both Gilbert and the broader classical studies community across Connecticut.

This statewide event is one of Connecticut’s largest celebrations of classical languages, history, and culture, bringing together hundreds of students to participate in immersive workshops, performances, competitions, and hands-on activities.

Latin & Greek Day is held annually at a central Connecticut location, welcoming schools from across the state. She will begin her co-chair responsibilities for the upcoming Latin & Greek Day scheduled for this academic year. She was selected for her deep passion for classical language education, her long-term involvement with the event, and her commitment to expanding student engagement across Connecticut. Her leadership aims to strengthen participation at a time when many Latin programs face challenges. Through expanded outreach, increased student leadership opportunities, and additional spoken Latin activities, Sarah intends to make the event more accessible, more interactive, and more meaningful for students statewide.

A History of Dedication

Sarah’s connection to Latin & Greek Day dates back to her first year teaching at The Gilbert School.
“I brought about a dozen students that year,” she said. “We made our own tunics on the sewing machines in the library and created a banner for Gilbert. Seeing students from across Connecticut gather to celebrate Latin, culture, and history—I knew right away this was an event I wanted to be part of.” Since then, she has helped organize and facilitate workshops, often encouraging her own students to lead. “My Latin 3 and 4 students run a spoken Latin workshop where they play Versipellis—Werewolf—in Latin. They love it.”

Goals for the Future

As Co-Chair, Sarah is focused on broadening participation, especially for districts with limited field-trip resources. “My main goal is outreach and getting more schools to join us,” she said. “Many districts have restrictions on field trips, so I want to make it easier for schools to attend. I also want students to have more ownership in the event.” She also hopes to expand spoken Latin opportunities.

“Latin is a language just like any other. Millions of people spoke Latin—and many still do. There’s a whole community of people who speak Latin across the U.S.”

An Immersive Cultural Experience

Latin & Greek Day features a wide range of engaging activities, ensuring there is something for everyone. The day includes hands-on creative pursuits like mosaic and fresco workshops, and immersive learning experiences such as spoken Latin sessions and Ancient Greek lessons. Participants can also get involved in the drama of the day through dramatic performances, or display their spirit by wearing tunics and classical-themed costumes. For those seeking action, the event features chariot races, various competitions, and informative presentations. "The day is just packed with activities!" Sarah said.

A Lifelong Passion

Sarah's love for Latin began in high school. “It was hands down my favorite subject,” she shared. “Latin literature is so interesting when you analyze how language conveys emotion and ideas.”

Her time at Wellesley College further ignited her passion for Roman art, culture, literature, and the enduring influence of Latin on modern life.

Keeping Latin Alive

“In a time when many Latin programs are in danger of ending, it’s important for students to see how big and vibrant this community really is,” she said. “Latin Day engages students. They get excited to learn.”

For her, the most rewarding moments are when students connect deeply with the subject.
“I’m grateful that I get to keep Latin alive—because it’s not dead,” she said. “When students act out stories, debate tough topics, or have that light-bulb moment where everything clicks, that’s when I know this is meaningful.”

Schools with Latin or Greek programs are encouraged to participate in this year’s statewide celebration.

Winter Sports Coaches

• Basketball (Boys) - Kris Kelsey kelseyk@gilbertschool.org
• Basketball (Girls) - Kurt Root rootk@gilbertschool.org
• Cheerleading - Rachel Gagnon gagnonr@gilbertschool.org
• Indoor Track (Boys) - Tom Scarangelo scarangelot@gilbertschool.org
• Indoor Track (Girls) - Tom Scarangelo scarangelot@gilbertschool.org
• Wrestling - Darek Schibi schibid@gilbertschool.org
• MS Basketball (Boys) - TBD
• MS Basketball (Girls) - Kevin Lillie lilliek@gilbertschool.org
• MS Cheerleading - TBD

Home Games

• December 10th- Girls Varsity Basketball Scrimmage at 3:45 vs. Terryville
• December 11th- Boys Varsity Basketball Scrimmage at 5:30 vs. Plainville
• December 12th- Girls Basketball JV 5:30, Varsity 7:00 vs. New Fairfield
• December 15th- Middle School Boys Basketball at 3:45 vs. Region 1, Middle School Girls Basketball at 5:30 vs. Region 1
• December 16th- Boys Basketball JV 5:30, Varsity 7:00 vs. Shepaug
• December 19th- Girls Basketball JV 5:30, Varsity 7:00 vs. Nonnewaug
• December 23rd- Girls Basketball JV 5:30, Varsity 7:00 vs. Lakeview
• December 29th- Boys Basketball JV 5:30, Varsity 7:00 vs. Bolton

Miscellaneous Information

• The Travel Release Form can be found here on the Gilbert Website and is an online form. Once completed, the Athletics Office will receive a notification.

• Game schedules are posted on the Gilbert Athletics website. I look forward to a great fall season and hope to see the stands filled with Blue and Gold!

Questions?

Contact Josh Penn, Gilbert Director of Athletics 7-12 at: pennj@gilbertschool.org or call 860 379-3721 with any questions regarding Athletics. If you have specific questions regarding practices and games please contact the coach directly.

Click on the button below for Middle School News for Grade 7 students and families!

Article by Stephanie Daige, Grade 8 Teacher

Support Our 8th Grade Spring Field Trip with RaiseRight!

The Gilbert School community is invited to take part in our RaiseRight Gift Card Fundraiser to support this year’s 8th Grade Spring Field Trip. By purchasing gift cards from your favorite retailers—either digitally or in print—a portion of each sale goes directly toward helping our 8th graders enjoy a meaningful and memorable trip this spring.

This fundraiser is simple and convenient for families, students, and staff, and gift cards make great holiday presents or everyday purchases.

How to Get Started:

• Visit RaiseRight.com or download the RaiseRight app.

• Enter The Gilbert School enrollment code: RDCCH22KG2GM.

• Browse a wide selection of retailers you already shop with.

• Choose eGift cards for immediate use or physical gift cards for gifting or in-person shopping.

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Daige at daiges@gilbertschool.org.

We encourage everyone—students, families, faculty, and friends—to participate and spread the word. Your support helps create an unforgettable experience for our 8th graders.

Thank you for supporting our students, and happy fundraising!

There will be a Middle School Dance on December 17th from 4 - 6:00 PM in the cafeteria hosted by the Middle School Student Council. All middle school students are invited to attend our first dance of the school year!

School social workers are meeting with 7th grade students 2-3 times weekly in groups to provide social/emotional support, curriculum, and skill development lessons during Hive Time. If you would like more information about Hive Time for your middle school student, please contact Mr. Cerbone at cerbonej@gilbertschool.org.

The free online FAFSA application for the 2026-27 post-high-school year is now open. Gilbert’s School Counseling Office is hosting our Financial Aid Workshop on December 4th, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. We will begin the evening with a delicious catered meal.

All seniors and their parents are invited to attend, regardless of their plans after high school. The FAFSA is necessary for trade school and college! Following dinner, counselors and financial aid representatives from NCCC will work with parents and students to complete their student aid applications. Please note:

• We encourage parents and students to create their FSA IDs before the event on December 4th. Students and parents or guardians will need to create their own FSA IDs.
• Social Security numbers for parents and students will be required.
• Parents who have completed FAFSAs before should NOT create a new FSA ID. They will use the same one.

The ASVAB Assessment and Career Exploration Program will take place on Friday, December 5th, at 8:00 am in the library. Every year, the Gilbert School provides this multiple-aptitude battery to students in Grades 10 through 12. The ASVAB measures multiple abilities and helps predict future occupational success in military and civilian life. It’s a great way for our students to discover their strengths and see how those strengths transfer to future career opportunities. Students can sign up to take the ASVAB with Mrs. Fiducia in the School Counseling office.

November 5th was instant Decision Day with Western New England University right here at The Gilbert School! An admissions representative from WNEU visited Gilbert to meet and interview our seniors who applied for Fall 2026 admission. At the close of the interviews, students were notified of the WNEU admissions decision. This year, participating students who were accepted were awarded over $140,000 in WNEU scholarships. Congratulations to all the students who participated!

Instant Decision Days are a great opportunity for Gilbert students to shine, bring their college applications to life, and showcase themselves for college admissions. On November 13, an admissions representative from Westfield State University will be at Gilbert offering instant admissions decisions.

Many Connecticut state, regional, and local scholarships are available to view on Naviance! The list continues to grow, so check in periodically to find area scholarships that are right for you.

1. Sign in to your Naviance account

2. Click “Colleges” on the top bar

3. Click “Scholarships & Money”

4. Click “Scholarship Search”

Seniors can also find various state, local, and regional scholarships on the TGS Scholarship Padlet, found under 'Resources' on our Gilbert School Counseling website. Or click on the button below to view it directly. Stay tuned for information on the Gilbert Trust Scholarships in the coming months!

Khan Academy, in conjunction with College Board, offers free customized SAT prep based on a student's performance on the PSAT/SAT. Generated SAT practice is tailored specifically to focus on those areas in which the student requires the most practice. Click on the button below to find out more information!

In the spring, all grade 11 students will participate in PSATs at The Gilbert School. However, any grade 9-12 student can register online to take the SAT and/or to take the ACT throughout the year - as many times as you choose. Like anything else, the more you practice, the better you'll get!

*Please note that The Gilbert School is no longer a testing site and will not be hosting SAT testing on alternate dates.

Article by Lauren Orr, International Dean of Student Affairs

Vitor, Nicolas, and Santiago enjoyed the end of Fall with a tour of Quinnipiac's beautiful campus on Open House Day, where they enjoyed complimentary apple cider donuts with a choice of the apple cider beverage served hot or cold. Afterwards, they hopped across the road for an easy hike up to the top of Sleeping Giant.

International student David, serves as pilot of TGS Yellowjacket drone team for the second year in a row. He is joined by teammates Natalie and Tobin, the team's coder and co-pilot.

David, Vitor, Nicolas, Erbudu, and Frank geared up for a race through the multi-level l 1,600-foot high speed go-kart track with seven changes in elevation. In the end, Frank proudly took first place leaving his friends behind to fight for second and third.

By Darlene Webb RN BSN, Director of Health Services

Nutrition Backpack Program

Did you know about the nutrition backpack program? It is designed to assist families with additional grocery items to help on the weekends. Items such as cereal, pasta, sauce, rice, peanut butter, jelly, etc, are packed into a backpack and sent home with your child once a week, usually on Fridays.

Winter Coats

With the onset of winter almost upon us, please remember to dress for the weather! If needed, we have new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves available for anyone that needs one! Contact Mrs. Webb at 860 379 8521 x1431 or email at webbd@gilbertschool.org.

• GoPuff: Offering $50 in free groceries per SNAP EBT customer in November. Use code SNAPRELIEF1 from November 1st to 15th, and SNAPRELIEF2 from November 16th to 30th.
• 211 Connecticut: Click on the link or dial 211 to access resources.
• Connecticut Foodshare: Provides food at over 100 locations in no-questions-asked outdoor “farmers market” settings. Mobile Pantry also available. Text FOODSHARE to 85511 and follow the prompts.

• TJs Burritos: Offering a free kids’ burrito or taco per child when you mention “SNAP Kids Meal” during takeout in Bloomfield or dine-in at East Granby.

• The Blue House Bagel Co. & Café (Canton, CT): Receive a free frozen 5-pack of bagels by showing your SNAP card—while supplies last.

Additional Resources in Connecticut:

• Aldi has put together a $40 Thanksgiving meal that can feed up to 10 people, perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Connecticut Food Bank: Connecting you to local food pantries and meal programs.

• Department of Social Services (DSS): Apply for SNAP and other assistance programs.
  

• School Meal Programs: Many districts offer free or reduced-price meals. Contact your local school or visit the Connecticut Department of Education.
• Local Community Action Agencies: Emergency food and support services available across Connecticut.
• FoodShare’s “Share Fresh” Program: Fresh produce and food boxes for families in need.

Or click on one of the buttons below for information on where you can a food pantry in the local area.

Students are required to have a physical exam for seventh grade, and also during ninth grade prior to the start of tenth grade. "Blue" physical forms were mailed out in your student's back-to-school packets in August. Forms can also be found in physician’s offices, the TGS main office, as well as the nurse's office. Physicals are also required every 13 months for students who are trying out for sports. If you have any questions regarding this State mandated requirement, please contact the nurse. If your child has already had a physical, please submit it to the Nurse's Office. If you would like to have your physician fax a copy, the confidential direct fax number is 860-738-9651.

Does your child want to play a sport? Don’t forget to book your sports physical! Students need a current physical on file in the nurse’s office to try out for a sport. Physicals should be dated within 13 months.

Connecticut experienced a heartbreaking rise in teen suicides this summer. The 988 National Contact Center services include rapid 24/7 access to trained staff who can help students (and adults) experiencing suicidal, substance use and other mental health crises, provide referrals to resources, and perform warm transfers to Mobile Crisis or emergency services as needed/desired. Additional information, resources, and materials for Connecticut residents can be found at the links below.

A nationwide harm reduction agency, Next Distro, is offering a free Narcan-similar opioid overdose medication to be delivered to your home. Their website requires watching a training video, taking a short quiz and providing your enrollment info. Click HERE to find out more information about how to receive FREE Naxolone, sent directly to your home.

Gilbert students can receive one FREE breakfast and one FREE lunch each school day, as the district participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). No applications needed!

• Would you like a part time job with summers off?
• Are you available to work during school hours?
• If you answered yes, School Food Service may be the place for you!

Opening for cafeteria workers, daily, or on a substitute basis. The work schedule follows the school calendar, approximately 5.25 hours/day, on an as needed basis. Applicants must be flexible with times, as school lunch schedules occasionally change. No experience needed, will train. Application, resume, letter of intent and 2 letters of reference are requested. Interested individuals should click HERE to apply online.

We use local! The Gilbert Café uses local produce purchased from many local farms through the Northwest Connecticut Food Hub. We love supporting our local economy & feeding great local products to our students!

Parents can download and use the PowerSchool App to monitor your Gilbert student's progress in real time. Watch the how-to video below for more information.

Our school utilizes the SchoolMessenger system to deliver text messages straight to your mobile phone with important information about school closings, delays, early dismissals, saftey alerts, and more.

You can participate in this free service by sending a text message of "Y" or "YES" to our school's short code number, 67587. You can opt out of these messages at any time by simply replying to one of our messages with "Stop".

Opt in now from your mobile phone. Point your phone's camera at this QR code.

2026 Gilbert High School Yearbooks are on sale now for $75. Prices will only increase, so get it now before the price goes up! Click on the button below to purchase your yearbook and add ons.

Yearbook Pricing:

• $75 from 10/1-11/30
• $85 from 12/1-12/30

New this year: Donate a yearbook to someone in need! Click on the button below to donate an entire yearbook to a student, or you can donate any dollar amount towards a yearbook. Any questions please email Mrs. Poirier at poirierv@gilbertschool.org.

Business yearbook ads are now available for purchase. Creating an ad that will seen by local parents, students, and community members is a fantastic way to promote your greater Winchester area business. Click on the button below, and scroll down to purchase an ad.

Personal yearbook ads are also available for purchase! Personal ads for your students are a great way to support them and show them how proud you are of all their accomplishments! Ads can be purchased and created on the yearbook website by clicking on the button below.

Any questions please email Mrs. Poirier at poirierv@gilbertschool.org.

No School

12/22-1/2 - Christmas Recess

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