GPS District Digest (v7, i06)
Stories, news, and updates from Greenwich Public Schools
After five issues of the GPS District Digest this school year, something stands out to us in the newsroom. With more than 25,000 views, you must really like to read about all good things GPS. Lucky us because that is what we are all about.
For issue No. 6, we want to share that goodness with everyone.
You asked for more videos. In this issue, we are giving you more videos. Do not skip over the newest feature, "Get To Know Your Educator." Ms. Lisa Daur from the International School at Dundee is super cool.
If you have not already, make sure to hit that "subscribe" bottom at the bottom. Do not miss a single issue.
Enjoy Issue No. 6 and thank you for your support.
GPS District Digest
Celebrations at Western Middle School are different. They got it down.
Earlier this month, they held their annual Western Day and Color Run and the theme of the day was spreading kindness to others.
In the morning, all students participated in collaborative activities that promote teamwork and spreading kindness. In the afternoon, eighth graders participated in the Kindness Color Run in honor of Steven Sudell, a former WMS student who lost his battle with cancer in November of 2018.
Steven's mission was to spread kindness right up until he passed away, and everyone at Western MS continues to make this their mission. Eighth graders and the Western community raised $7,000 through this event. This will allow them to award three Western alumni graduating from Greenwich High School with $1,000 scholarships for their involvement in their school or larger community in spreading kindness to others.
During the afternoon, and prior to watching the eighth graders throw their powder paint high up in the air, sixth graders continued the tradition of painting kindness rocks for Steven's Kindness Rock Garden, while seventh graders wrote thank you cards to community members that support our families.
It was a great day at Western. Colour my world.
Getting to know some of the educators at Greenwich Public Schools has been a tremendous journey for the GPS District Digest. We have learned there are a few common themes for all of them: they are dedicated, committed to the children of Greenwich, and love working at GPS.
We have also learned about the "aha moment," whether the teachers mention it by name or by theory. It seems to be a big deal.
International School at Dundee's Ms. Lisa Daur is no exception. In the latest "Get To Know Your Educator," the fourth grade teacher tells us so many interesting things, including how ISD was her destiny.
I gotta line on you.
What is happening with the Greenwich High School boys' cross country team? They are out of control!
Earlier this month at the CIAC State Open boys' cross country championship at Wickham Park in Manchester, the Cardinals took home the team championship, scoring 87 points to second place Xavier’s 104.
According to the CT Insider, Ryan Newcomb (16:13.15, ninth overall) came in fifth, a 15th place finish from Benjamin Hayes (16:35.26, 25th), a 17th place finish from Quentin Koch (16:39.40, 29th), a 24th place finish from James Hayes (16:46.85, 37th) and a 26th place finish from Michael Yardis (16:49.06, 39th).
"We have been talking about how we may not have the fastest individual on the line, but we knew we had the best team," Greenwich Coach Sean Astle told the CT Insider. "When we are firing on all cylinders, we think we can beat anyone. It was definitely a goal, and we are just blessed that we were able to make it happen today."
No one celebrates Veterans Day like Greenwich Public Schools. Believe us when we tell you.
Last week, to honor those men and women who served for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good, all 15 GPS schools held ceremonies, conversations, and celebrations. Mothers, fathers, grandmothers, grandfathers, brothers, sisters, and neighbors spoke and allowed the students and staff to appreciate all that they had done.
We created a short video slideshow to demonstrate just how GPS does it.
There goes my hero.
Greenwich High School's Ms. Jerusha Vogel was recently honored with the 2025 Northeastern Region of the American Chemical Society Division of Chemical Education Award for Exceptional High School Teaching during the 2025 Northeastern Regional Discussion held at Worcester State University.
“At Greenwich High School, Ms. Vogel has successfully taught all levels of Chemistry," Principal Ralph Mayo said. "Under her leadership, participation and achievement in AP Chemistry have risen steadily during the past five years, a testament to her exceptional instruction."
Ms. Vogel, a teacher for more than 25 years, teaches AP chemistry and college prep chemistry. Outside of the classroom, she has been an active volunteer leader for the New England Association of Chemistry Teachers and was a recipient of the prestigious NEACT John Swistak Award.
"She also enriches her colleagues’ practice by contributing strategies and resources to GHS and the larger professional learning community of chemistry teachers," Mr. Mayo added. "This generosity comes from her continuous professional growth: attending webinars, presenting and participating in workshops and conferences, and engaging in roundtable discussions focused on best practices in Chemistry education.”
The ACS Division of Chemical Education is a technical division of the American Chemical Society. Their membership is a dynamic, engaged community spanning secondary schools, universities, research institutions, and industry—united by a shared passion for advancing chemistry education and inspiring future scientists.
International School at Dundee fifth grader, Lucy Brooks is an ice skating superstar, the GPS District Digest has learned.
Along with her partner, Jeffrey Li, the team earned two gold medals and two trophies at the 2026 Pacific Coast Sectional Singles and U.S. Ice Dance Final in Henderson, NV. Both represent Rye Figure Skating Club in New York.
Sources say that based on these results, the tandem will attend the U.S. Figure Skating National Development Camp at Columbus, OH in January.
Skylar Grey alerted us and we listened. More than 135 current Greenwich Public School employees have told the world they are coming home.
An informal poll by the GPS District Digest discovered that so many returned to the district that helped them be successful and we want to celebrate those amazing alumni. Just for fun. Nothing else.
We have for you, five new yearbook photos found on the internet, available to the public. Can you guess who they are? They might have been much younger back then, but they certainly look like they have not aged a day.
For those staff members that just do not want to relive those days, let us know. No offense intended.
Since 1892, the Havemeyer Building has served the people of Greenwich as a hub of public education. How many children, parents, and educators do you think walked through these doors during the past 133 years? Hundreds still do each and every week.
For the 15th time, a postcard of this grand building has been delivered to the newsroom of the GPS District Digest. While it was not sent through the U.S. Postal Service, if you look closely, you can see that "Julia" gave this to someone for their collection.
Thank you, Julia, wherever you are.
Kick off the holiday season at the Greenwich Public Schools Honor Choir ’Tis the Season to Sing concert on Friday, December 5 at 7:00 PM in Greenwich High School’s Performing Arts Center for an unforgettable night of music and festive cheer.
The Honor Choir will be sharing the stage with Backtrack Vocals, an internationally renowned a cappella group known for their high-energy performances and stunning harmonies. It is a musical celebration you will not want to miss.
Adults can pre-order $10 tickets by scanning the QR code. All GPS students attend for FREE when accompanied by an adult. Tickets will be $15 at the door.
Bring the whole family and let the magic of the season begin.
Tell me Michael, how could more than 4,217 people be wrong?
That is how many close friends we have reading what we post on social media. It can be a great tool to share information when done responsibly. Here at GPS, we use social media to give you a behind the scenes look at what is happening in our buildings, celebrate staff and student achievement, and to break news.
Are you active on other social media platforms? Should the district join you? Let us know!
FB: Greenwich Public Works
FB: Greenwich Public Works
FB: Greenwich Free Press
