Lebanon Public Schools

– John F. Kennedy

As we close out the month of December, I am grateful for the many moments of learning, leadership, and connection that our students, staff, and families have shared across Lebanon Public Schools.

This month, our high school music students brought holiday cheer to our local senior center through festive caroling, while our eighth graders expanded their curiosity through a field trip to the Connecticut Science Center and our middle school students participated in hands-on, experiential learning through Project Oceanology. Select student-athletes represented our district at the Eastern Connecticut Conference Leadership Meeting, and winter sports are now fully underway across our schools.

Our staff remained deeply engaged in professional learning, participating in focused training with the Connecticut Science Center, Savvas, and sessions centered on play-based learning, while our high school math team visited Glastonbury to observe Building Thinking Classrooms in action. In addition, our district leadership team met with the Connecticut State Department of Education to better understand the next generation accountability system and will be developing an action plan to strengthen student growth in response to our elementary school’s Focus School identification.

As we reflect on a busy and meaningful month, I wish our students, staff, and families a safe, restful, and joyful holiday season.

Reading and writing during the holidays offer students meaningful opportunities to reflect, express gratitude, and explore diverse traditions. Across the district, students are writing about what they’re thankful for, reflecting on the past year, setting goals for the new one, and learning about holiday customs around the world. Many are also participating in community service projects and writing about their impact on the Lebanon community. Whether through winter-themed poetry, cultural stories, or other seasonal activities, LPS classrooms encourage authentic and thoughtful learning that fosters connection, mindfulness, and self-discovery.

To strengthen the home–school connection over the holiday break, here are some simple activities to enjoy together at home:

• Create a family gratitude jar and share reflections together.
  
  

• Start a holiday scrapbook with memories, photos, and personal notes.
  
  

• Hold a family story night and build a collaborative story.
  
  

• Make handmade holiday cards with personalized messages.
  
  

• Write down favorite family recipes—or create a new one—and note why it’s special.

These activities nurture curiosity, gratitude, and a love of learning beyond the classroom. Enjoy the reflection and creativity this holiday season!

Department of Pupil Services Webpage: Please check the webpage for the Department of Pupil Services. It has recently been updated:

https://www.lebanonct.org/page/department-of-pupil-services

Important documents that are shared with special education parents each year are found here:

https://www.lebanonct.org/page/special-education-documents

Autism Waiver

On November 12, parents were invited to attend a virtual meeting hosted by the Department of Pupil Services. Nate Califaxo from DSS (Department of Social Services) presented on the Autism Waiver. He provided valuable information about eligibility, how to apply, the waitlist, and other services available to those that qualify.

To be eligible, an individual must meet the following requirements: the PRIMARY diagnosis of autism, a full-scale IQ of 70 or above, at least three years of age, legal residency in Connecticut, medicaid eligibility, impairment prior to age 22, impairment expected to continue indefinitely, and reside in their own home or their family home. The current waitlist is around ten years so completing the application process early is beneficial. Information is on the state’s website:

https://portal.ct.gov/dds/knowledge-base/articles/eligibility-for-an-individual-with-autism-and-no-intellectual-disability?language=en_US

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.

LMHS Soccer Accolades

Write-up provided by Coach Morello-

Emily served as captain this year ending a 4-year career as a varsity starter. She led by example this season and was a constant cheerleader for one of the youngest teams in years. She led the team and league in scoring with 38 goals, setting the school's single season mark along the way. She finished her career second on the all-time list with 88 goals. She was named to the ECC All-Star team and Class S All-State for the second year in a row. She participated in the Senior Bowl All-Star game on November 22nd. She was recently selected as an All-New England performer again! She will be continuing her academic and soccer careers at Eastern Connecticut State University.

Write-up provided by Coach Perry-

I have had the privilege of coaching Adam these past two years and can only speak highly of him! He is a fierce competitor with great leadership qualities and was selected as captain his Junior year. He deservedly earned All-State recognition as a defender and I am super excited to see what he has to offer during the rest of his career at Lyman. Not only is he a tremendous athlete, he is an even better person with a passion for the game of soccer but also helping others.

Invention Convention News

Congratulations to Lebanon Elementary School third grader Jackson Mazarelli for winning the “Spirit of Entrepreneurship” award at the recent Push for Entrepreneurship (PFE) Fundraiser. Push for Entrepreneurship is Connecticut’s Invention Convention's annual fundraising event. As a U.S. National finalist, Jackson and a small group of other inventors were invited to showcase their inventions at this event which took place at Fairfield University on November 8th. All the inventors shared their inventions with the fundraiser participants. Jackson received the "Spirit of Entrepreneurship" Award, the top award of the day, for his invention “Switch-a-Face”. His invention is a plushy toy that comes with interchangeable faces that can be switched. Jackson hopes his invention will help other children better express their emotions. This award was chosen by participants from the supporting PFE teams and sponsors. Congratulations Jackson! We are so proud of your hard work and are thrilled that you will be representing Lebanon and Connecticut at the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals this June!

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.

In Lebanon Public Schools, our mission—We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies—comes to life through educators who hold students to high expectations while nurturing their confidence, character, and sense of belonging. This month, we are proud to highlight an educator whose classroom exemplifies that commitment every single day.

As a third-grade teacher, Mrs. Gervais fosters a culture rooted in respect, responsibility, and purposeful learning. Students are taught not only academic skills, but also how to be thoughtful members of a learning community. Executive functioning skills—such as managing time, materials, and responsibilities—are intentionally embedded into daily lessons. A classroom motto captures this philosophy well: “Third graders are aware of time, space, and others.” Through explicit instruction and consistent modeling, students learn how to collaborate, engage in respectful discourse, and communicate their ideas clearly—skills that directly align with our district’s Portrait of a Graduate competencies.

Jan feels her impact is felt most powerfully in the confidence her students gain. She speaks openly with students about effort, grit, and growth mindset, emphasizing that learning takes time and perseverance. When work does not reflect a student’s best effort, she kindly—but firmly—pushes them to try again. Over time, students experience success, begin to see their own potential, and develop the confidence to take academic risks. One moment that captures this impact occurred when a student, during a read-aloud, spontaneously shared, “I think I’ve learned more this year than ever!”—a reflection of the high expectations and belief placed in every learner.

Jan is also committed to continuous improvement in her practice. Over the past several years, she has embraced new engagement strategies, including techniques like Four Corners, which encourage movement, discussion, critical thinking, and reflection across academic and social-emotional learning. She has further demonstrated her dedication to growth by volunteering to serve on curriculum pilot teams and fully engaging in the implementation of i-Ready and Savvas, ensuring students benefit from high-quality instructional resources.

Collaboration is another hallmark of her work. She speaks with deep appreciation for her grade-level team, highlighting the importance of shared planning, informal check-ins, and learning from one another. While she may not seek formal leadership roles, she lives out teacher leadership through consistency, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students—recognizing that leading by example is often the most powerful form of leadership.

When asked about legacy, her response is simple and profound: she hopes students and colleagues remember that she loved them. Guided by a quote from C.S. Lewis—“Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved person's ultimate good”—she strives every day to want the very best for her students, their families, and her colleagues. She is most proud of the relationships she has built throughout her time in Lebanon Public Schools and of her continued commitment to self-reflection and growth.

Her inspiration traces back to her own sixth-grade teacher, Miss Cheryl Anderson, who made her feel seen, valued, and joyful as a learner—a reminder of the lasting influence educators have on the lives of students. That legacy now continues in her own classroom.

To new educators joining LPS, her advice is both honest and encouraging: maintain a positive outlook, accept that not everything will be perfect, and surround yourself with colleagues who inspire you to be your best.

When asked to define her impact in one word, she humbly offers dedication—a word that resonates deeply with all who see her work in action.

We are grateful for educators like her who truly grow learners, cultivate leaders, and create legacies in Lebanon Public Schools.

At Lyman Memorial High School, Ms. Van Dyne brings the LPS mission—We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies—to life through intentional teaching, deep relationships, and authentic leadership opportunities for students. Whether serving as a Model UN co-advisor, Class of 2028 advisor, or classroom teacher, Amber consistently helps students recognize their own capacity to lead. By naming moments of leadership out loud and placing trust in students who may not yet see it in themselves, Amber empowers learners to step forward with confidence. Creating legacies is equally central to this work—exemplary student work is celebrated and preserved beyond a single school year, reinforcing the belief that learning echoes forward and that each student contributes to the ongoing story of Lyman.

Instructionally, Ms. Van Dyne believes that students rise when they have ownership of their learning. Through inquiry-based, project-driven experiences—such as the Island Project—students engage deeply in collaboration, debate, and problem-solving, often exceeding expectations without prompting. A recent instructional adjustment, adding targeted skills-based lessons in response to student need, resulted in the strongest assessments and projects to date, demonstrating a commitment to reflective, responsive teaching. Just as importantly, Amber ensures every student feels seen through consistent check-ins, encouragement, and genuine interest in their lives beyond the classroom—building trust that fuels both academic and personal growth.

Amber’s leadership extends well beyond the classroom. Through collaboration with colleagues, technology coaching, PLC work, and leading professional development—including sessions on ethical and effective AI use—Ms. Van Dyne helps strengthen instructional practice across the school. Serving in multiple leadership roles and pursuing ongoing professional learning reflects a deep belief that leadership is both responsibility and service. When asked to define the impact of their work in one word, Amber chose empowering—a fitting description of an educator who believes in students first, listens deeply, and creates the conditions for others to thrive.

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.

Lebanon Public Schools is proud to recognize Elaine as our December 2025 Heart of the Harvest honoree — a volunteer whose love for this community is unmistakable in everything she does. A proud LPS graduate herself, former instructional assistant at both LES and LMS, and now a parent of children in our schools, Elaine’s connection to Lebanon runs deep. She gives back not only because the district shaped her own path, but because she believes every student deserves to feel seen, cared for, and encouraged.

For Elaine, volunteering is about more than putting on events — it’s about building relationships. She considers it a privilege to be another trusted adult in the lives of our students, someone who celebrates their achievements, listens to their challenges, and reminds them that they are valued. Whether she is chaperoning, running activities, or simply showing up with a smile and a high-five, she creates a sense of belonging that students carry with them long after the moment has passed.

Her impact spans nearly a decade of involvement across our schools. At LES she helped elevate community events including the Mini Mudder, Goodies with Grandparents, ceiling tile paint nights, games and dances, BINGO, the Extravaganza, book fairs, talent shows, and Field Day. She also brought Spirit Sticks to LES and dedicated eight years to making that a joyful, schoolwide tradition. At LMS, she continues her steady presence through picture day support, Veterans Day celebrations, Panther Dens, book fairs, field day, and cheering on our Panthers across many sports. Through Moms in Prayer, she keeps our staff and students uplifted beyond the school day.

When asked what moments stand out most, Elaine shared that every student interaction matters. A wave in the hallway, a hug at an event, or a small conversation where a child feels comfortable sharing their triumphs or struggles — these are the reminders that her presence makes a difference. Her hope is simple and powerful: that even one student remembers she was rooting for them.

Through her service, Elaine says she has gained countless friendships, a deeper understanding of the students who fill our classrooms, and a greater appreciation for our families who show up for one another. She has witnessed Lebanon’s community at its best — delivering meals, donating time and resources, and wrapping around families in moments of need. Those acts of kindness continue to fuel her commitment.

Elaine believes strongly in the value of being present while children are young, encouraging others not to let these years pass by unnoticed: “You will never look back and regret the time spent with your children.” She hopes to see continued parent involvement districtwide — not just participation, but a shared passion for nurturing students through everyday moments that show they are loved.

Lebanon is a special place, and volunteers like Elaine are a big reason why. Her unwavering dedication, compassion, and joyful spirit truly embody what it means to Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies.

Please join us in celebrating Elaine — a cornerstone of our community and a shining example of the heart of Lebanon Public Schools.

Sabena Escott, MSW sabena.escott@lebanonct.org

Lyman Memorial High School Social Worker and District Family Care Coordinator

With legislation over the summer, a family care coordinator has been added to the growing number of mental health staff that CT recognizes will further support our children and families in the school setting. The family care coordinator role already encompasses what our Lebanon school district mental health teams provide for students and families. 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. Below are a few programs and resources for students and families.

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