Communications Corner

Greetings, Families!

Summer is finally here! It’s hard to believe how quickly this school year has passed. We hope you’ve had a wonderful year and wish you a safe, fun-filled, and healthy summer vacation.

This past year, countless hours were spent discussing the budget (Next Referendum Date: June 23rd), attending school events and Town meetings and keeping our community informed through ParentSquare and social media updates. We’re also excited about the progress of the Windermere project and look forward to seeing the completed project in the Fall!

To our recent graduates, congratulations! We wish you all the best as you begin your next chapter and pursue new opportunities and adventures. Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

We’d love to see how you're spending your summer! Be sure to tag us @boe.ellington in your photos and posts as you enjoy time with family and friends, whether you're traveling or making memories close to home.

We look forward to seeing everyone again in August!

Happy Reading,

Jenn Mullin
Committee Chair

Chair Kerry Socha was introduced by her daughter, Senior, Remy Socha to address the 188 graduates. Chair Socha congratulated the Class of 2026 on reaching this important milestone and encouraged them to embrace the future with confidence. Sharing personal stories of overcoming academic struggles and professional setbacks, Mrs. Socha offered three guiding principles for success: set your intentions, be persistent, and keep the faith. Graduates were reminded that their past does not define them, that setbacks can become opportunities, and that perseverance and faith can help them navigate life's challenges. The address concluded with a heartfelt message of pride and congratulations to the entire graduating class.

You can watch the full Commencement address HERE.

Liaison Jenn Mullin was thrilled to announce at the June meeting that the Communications Committee has selected LuAnn's Bakery as the recipient for their community contributions. Josh Virkler accepted the award and shared his gratitude.

For info about LuAnn's please visit: https://www.luannsbakery.com/

The Ignite Leadership Conference put Ellington students and the high school in a leadership role with others from across the state. Dr. Lenora Williams and Miriam Underwood were thrilled to be a part of the conference! You can watch the full video on our YouTube Channel.

The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students. This is Ellington’s 8th year being recognized.

Read the press release here. 🎶

Teachers Tim Adams and John Cheman are with Marcia Kupferschmid at the Center School Band Concert.

Angie Moser and Marcia Kupferschmid visited the Hall Memorial Library to see students artwork on multiple walls! It is a great showcase of the high school and middle school art clubs. Kudos to Ms. Lanz and Ms. Griffin for all they do for the students and congratulations for the National Art Honor Society inductees! 🎨

Board Member Megan Johnson shared a few shots from the Mother's Day Tea at Windermere School!
What a "sweet" event! 🌷🍰💌

Ellington High School was honored to be selected by CREC to present at its annual Dine and Discuss event during CREC’s 60th anniversary year.

This event brings together leaders from districts across CREC’s network to learn from, be inspired by, and engage with schools demonstrating strong practice and meaningful innovation. This year, Ellington High School was chosen to share the work behind our Journey To Knighthood Enrichment Camp

CREC recognized the strength and impact of this model and expressed excitement about sharing Ellington’s work with other district leaders and superintendents across its network. The opportunity to present our approach speaks to the thoughtful planning, student-centered vision, and commitment to enrichment that continue to define Ellington High School.

The Annual Wellness Committee raffle was held June 1-5 with over 225 raffle prizes awarded to staff on behalf of the Staff Wellness Committee! Community partners donated items in addition to Anthem's support, we had an unprecedented week of surprises for staff!

The Windermere Building site is close to completion. A clean new blacktop was just poured for parking where the PreK playground will be installed this summer! We look forward to welcoming students back to the changes in Fall 2026! Connect with the Permanent Building Committee Liaison, Miriam Underwood for inquiries: munderwood@ellingtonschools.net

🎓The Class of 2026 enjoyed one last "recess" on the brand new Windermere School playground after visiting all the schools for the beloved "Walk and Wave" tradition at all the schools! 🎓

Congratulations (from top left) to our 2025-2026 Retirees: L. Badger, J. Chaves, M. Zwiesler, M. Blinn, A. Cowan, B. Keilty, J. Guidry, and T. Magnuson!

These national recognitions highlight the district's commitment to effective, innovative communication and will be celebrated at the NSPRA 2026 National Seminar in New Orleans this July.

"While I am incredibly proud of these recognitions, they are also a reflection of the support and collaboration received from the Board of Education, the Communications Committee, Administration, and colleagues. Thank you for allowing me to help tell the story of Ellington Public Schools and for supporting creative, meaningful ways to engage our students, families, staff, and community."

-Tracey Deptula, Assistant to the Superintendent and Communications Coordinator

The 26-27 District Calendar can be found on our website.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out the the Central Office at 860-896-2300.

Communications Corner Archive

Please follow and tag us on Facebook and Instagram in all your fun summer adventures and memorable times with friends and family—whether at home or away!