Lebanon Public Schools

– John F. Kennedy

Hello Lebanon Residents,

Now that we are in a new year, it is an ideal time to reflect on the accomplishments of the Lebanon Public Schools community and to look ahead with intentional purpose. In 2025, our students, staff, families, and community partners continued to bring our shared vision—We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies—to life in meaningful ways. From the classroom to the athletic field, from career pathways to community partnerships, the past year was marked by growth, innovation, and collective pride in our schools.

Throughout 2025, we saw strong evidence of growing learners across all grade levels. Instructional practices were strengthened through targeted professional learning, learning walks, and the thoughtful integration of new tools and resources to personalize instruction. Students benefited from expanded academic supports, innovative programs, and opportunities to engage in authentic learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and resilience. Our participation in statewide initiatives, including an AI pilot program, further positioned Lebanon Public Schools at the forefront of preparing students for the evolving demands of the future.

At the same time, we remained committed to cultivating leaders—both in our students and our staff. Students stepped into leadership roles through athletics, the arts, clubs, service learning, and career-focused programs, demonstrating teamwork, responsibility, and perseverance. New and strengthened partnerships with higher education and industry leaders provided real-world experiences that connect learning to future careers. Within our schools, educators and staff modeled leadership through collaboration, mentorship, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.

As we celebrate these accomplishments, we also recognize that the work of creating legacies extends well beyond a single year. In 2026, our focus remains on sustaining progress while sharpening our efforts ahead, strengthening teaching and learning, supporting student well-being, and advancing long-term facilities planning.

Connecticut State Community College (CT State) campuses statewide will host FAFSA sessions on select dates in January and February to support individuals in completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Prospective students, along with their parents or other family, are invited to attend sessions at CT State campuses such as Three Rivers, QVCC and Manchester among others.

Staff from Financial Aid Services offices will be available to assist with FAFSA-related questions. Check with local campuses for exact dates and times. A link to these events is also available on the CT State website calendar. Please see your counselor for more info.

As we begin the new year and reach the midyear point in learning, it’s a great time for families to reflect on goals and celebrate progress. In our classrooms, students are engaged in high-quality learning experiences through Savvas curriculum resources, OpenSciEd inquiry-based learning, student choice, collaborative discussions, and targeted support through i-Ready. Together, these tools help us ensure that every student is learning deeply and making meaningful growth.

Through OpenSciEd, students explore real-world phenomena, ask questions, test ideas, and revise their thinking. In literacy and math, Savvas lessons support strong foundational skills and grade-level learning, while i-Ready helps teachers pinpoint student strengths and needs and provide personalized practice and instruction. This combination supports both core learning and individualized growth, helping students build confidence as learners.

Families play an important role in this work. Setting simple goals at home—such as reading daily, practicing math facts, building consistent routines, and talking about what students are learning—strengthens school success. Consider asking your child to explain their thinking, share what they’re wondering, or describe a problem they worked through. These conversations help reinforce what we are building in schools: thinking classrooms, where curiosity, reasoning, collaboration, and persistence are part of every day.

Thank you for partnering with us. With families and schools working together, we can make this second half of the year one of strong growth, deeper learning, and shared success.

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.

Lyman Memorial High School has earned a place on the College Board's AP Honor Roll for the 2024-2025 school year! The AP Honor Roll recognizes schools that have done outstanding work to welcome more students into AP courses and support them on the path to college success.

"We know it takes a significant schoolwide effort- dedication from teachers, counselors, administrators, students, and parents- to make AP access a priority. We join you in celebrating this inspiring achievement for your community."- Trevor Packer, Senior Vice President, AP and Instruction

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.

Lebanon Public Schools is proud to recognize Stephanie DeLucia as our January Portrait of an Educator. Stephanie’s work exemplifies our district mission, We Grow Learners, Cultivate Leaders, and Create Legacies, through her unwavering commitment to students, educators, and the broader school community.

In her roles as Instructional Coach, Reading Teacher, and Culture and Climate Specialist at Lebanon Elementary School, Stephanie impacts learners both directly and indirectly each day. Whether working with students in small reading groups or partnering with teachers through coaching, PLCs, and data analysis, her focus is always clear: meeting learners where they are and helping them grow. Stephanie believes deeply in the importance of connection ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and capable of success.

Stephanie’s daily practice strongly reflects our Portrait of a Graduate competencies, particularly as an Effective Communicator, Innovative Problem Solver, Lifelong Learner, and Engaged Collaborator. She models thoughtful communication with students, colleagues, and families; supports problem-solving through reflective questioning; and collaborates extensively with grade-level teams and staff. Her weekly myView Minute highlights effective instructional practices across the building, elevating shared learning and celebrating teacher expertise.

When asked what reminds her why she does this work, Stephanie points not to a single defining moment, but to the many small, meaningful ones that happen every day, a student’s pride in reaching a reading goal, a child excitedly sharing a new book, or a teacher confidently trying a new instructional strategy after coaching and reflection. These moments, she notes, are what sustain her in a profession that can be both deeply rewarding and deeply challenging.

Stephanie holds high expectations for all learners and is intentional about helping students recognize their own growth. She consistently reinforces the value of perseverance, embraces mistakes as part of learning, and reminds students, as she does her own children, that trying your best is success.

A strong advocate for research-based literacy instruction, Stephanie has adjusted her practice to reflect the Science of Reading, ensuring structured literacy approaches are implemented consistently. She has worked to secure aligned resources, support colleagues in implementation, and is currently developing a structured literacy lesson plan template to guide instruction districtwide.

Stephanie views teacher leadership as a commitment to growth, reflection, and solution-oriented thinking. With 25 years in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, interventionist, Dean of Students, curriculum and technology specialist, instructional coach, and adjunct professor at Eastern Connecticut State University, she brings both experience and humility to her leadership. As a longtime TEAM Mentor and Master Mentor, she takes great pride in supporting new educators and nurturing their development.

When reflecting on her time at Lebanon Public Schools, Stephanie shares pride in the district’s progress and potential, particularly the way educators and administrators have thoughtfully embraced new research-aligned initiatives to better serve students. Above all, she hopes colleagues and students will remember that her decisions were always grounded in what is best for learners.

Stephanie describes her impact with one word: transformational, a fitting reflection of the way she influences practice, mindset, and outcomes through growth, collaboration, and change.

We are grateful for Stephanie DeLucia’s leadership, dedication, and heart for this work. She is a powerful example of what it means to be an educator in Lebanon Public Schools, and we are proud to celebrate her as our January Portrait of an Educator.

For Erica Strong, education is about far more than lessons and content, it is about connection, collaboration, and creating experiences that endure long after students leave the classroom. Some of her most meaningful moments come when former students return to Lyman Memorial School, eager to share memories of the activities they loved and reflect on how they’ve grown since their time in her class. These conversations serve as powerful reminders that the relationships and experiences educators build today continue to shape students well beyond graduation.

Erica believes that the strongest instructional outcomes are achieved through meaningful collaboration. She values the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of her colleagues and intentionally ensures that every voice is heard when teams analyze data and make instructional decisions. By leveraging collective strengths and listening deeply, Erica helps refine practice and ensures that decisions are thoughtful, inclusive, and centered on what is best for students.

A committed lifelong learner, Erica has recently expanded her practice through Connecticut’s ReadConn 2.0 program, deepening her understanding of the Science of Reading. This experience has reshaped her approach to literacy, reinforcing her belief that every teacher, regardless of content area, is a literacy teacher. By applying evidence-based strategies grounded in current research, Erica continues to strengthen instruction and support learners across the middle school setting.

Erica also models lifelong learning through her leadership with staff. She actively plans professional learning opportunities, facilitates learning walks, and shares new research and instructional tools with colleagues. By holding herself to the same high expectations she has for students, Erica fosters a culture where growth is ongoing, collaborative, and visible.

When reflecting on her time at Lebanon Public Schools, Erica is most proud of the deep, lasting relationships she has built. She hopes students and colleagues remember her as someone who truly valued connection through restorative circles, after-school activities, and meaningful classroom dialogue, and who genuinely cared about their voices, successes, and continued journeys beyond LMS. Inspired by her own middle school teachers who helped her navigate a challenging transition, Erica brings that same commitment to care and belonging to her work every day.

Through her dedication to relationships, collaboration, and continuous learning, Erica Strong exemplifies the very best of Lebanon Public Schools, growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies that last.

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.

The Heart of the Harvest recognition celebrates individuals and families whose quiet dedication, generosity of time, and commitment to our schools help sustain the strong sense of community that defines Lebanon Public Schools. This month, we are proud to recognize the LaFleur family for their many years of meaningful involvement and steadfast support of our students, schools, and programs.

The LaFleurs’ connection to Lebanon Public Schools began when they relocated to town as their daughters were starting elementary school. Coming from a district where the system had fallen into disrepair, they were seeking a better experience for their children, and found it immediately in Lebanon. From the very beginning, they were struck by the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of their daughters’ teachers. That experience set the standard and inspired them, like so many parents, to give back by participating in school events whenever they could.

Over the years, the LaFleur family has been a familiar and welcome presence across all levels of our district. From LES talent shows, activity nights, art exhibits, Mini Mudders, and Field Days, to LMS dances, sporting events, and Lebanon Fair parking fundraisers, to LMHS Open Mic Nights, art and music events, drama performances, athletics, spaghetti dinners, Ag breakfasts, and fair-related fundraisers, their involvement has spanned every stage of their daughters’ school journey. For the LaFleurs, these experiences were never viewed as work, but as joyful opportunities to connect with their children, with other families, and with the broader school community.

When reflecting on impact, the LaFleurs measure success in a simple but powerful way: the happiness and growth they see in their daughters. They are quick to point out that they are not alone in their efforts and remain deeply appreciative of the extraordinary work of teachers, coaches, athletic trainers, administrators, and staff across the district. Their focus has always been encouraging their daughters to fully engage in school life, to take risks, try new things, experience setbacks, and grow stronger through those experiences. Lebanon Public Schools, they note, has consistently fostered an environment where students are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to “jump in with both feet.”

Personally, their involvement has only deepened their admiration for Lebanon’s schools. They speak highly of a system that tailors education to individual students while holding them to high expectations, supported by staff of the highest caliber. They also emphasize the vital role families play whether by attending events, supporting student participation, or volunteering when able. Even small efforts, when combined, create lasting impact. Their message to others is simple and encouraging: get involved as you can, enjoy the experience, and know you’ll be surrounded by others who share the same goal, supporting kids and having a meaningful time doing it.

Looking ahead, the LaFleurs express great confidence in the future of Lebanon Public Schools. They recognize that the strength of our system is no accident, but the result of intentional design, dedicated professionals, and unwavering community support. With that foundation firmly in place, they are confident Lebanon will continue to thrive and serve as a model of what a school system can and should be.

We are grateful to the LaFleur family for embodying the true Heart of the Harvest—a commitment to growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies through community, connection, and care.

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