Dr. Semmel's May Newsletter

Take as little or as much time as you want to better understand each topic. Have a question, email me at msemmel@trumbullps.org

After a thoughtful and collaborative process, the BOE budget received an increase of 3.73% for the coming year. While our Business office had projected a 4.59% increase to maintain current programs and staffing, we worked diligently to make necessary adjustments in order to balance the budget.

During the May 20 Budget Reallocation session, several reductions were made to align with the approved funding. We understand that these decisions are never easy, and we remain committed to ensuring that student learning and well-being remain at the forefront of all we do.

To stay informed, you can view all budget-related materials and my final presentation to the Board, which includes highlights from this year’s process and a list of reductions, on our district website.

We were proud to celebrate a significant win this year with our elected State officials. As I shared previously, the Excess Cost Reimbursement (ECR) program—which helps districts cover the cost of special education services—has faced funding shortfalls in the recent past. However, thanks to strong advocacy and collaboration with our State Representatives, the State has allocated an additional $40 million to ECR for the 2024–2025 school year. We are hopeful that the new State budget will continue this trend. This funding will benefit not only Trumbull, but school districts across Connecticut.

Each year, our District Improvement Team—working with input from staff, families, and the Board of Education—develops district-wide goals. These goals guide our work and are shared with the community at the start of the year, with updates provided midyear and at year’s end.

The 2024–2025 End-of-Year Goals Update is now available on the TPS website. From enhancing school safety and mental health support to piloting AI tools in classrooms, Trumbull Public Schools made bold strides in student well-being and academic excellence. Discover how strategic planning, staff engagement, and community collaboration are shaping the future of education in Trumbull.

We’re excited to welcome the Class of 2038! Kindergarten registration for the 2025–2026 school year began on Wednesday, January 8. If your child will be joining us, please visit our registration page for all the information you need to get started.

Looking for engaging summer opportunities for your child? Our Summer Enrichment Program is filling up fast! Join us for Summer Explorations, featuring a wide variety of classes and camps:

• 🎨 Art, Cooking, and Games

• 🤖 Robotics, Math, and Esports

• 📚 Reading Review

• 🏀 Sports Camps for all interests

There’s something for everyone! Browse our full list of offerings and register today on our enrichment page.

I hope all families and staff can enjoy the end-of-year celebrations from our moving forward ceremonies at each school to the Graduation of the Class of 2025. It is an absolute pleasure serving all of you as the Trumbull Superintendent of Schools, and I wish you all a safe and enjoyable summer!

I hope all families and staff can enjoy the end-of-year celebrations from our moving forward ceremonies at each school to the Graduation of the Class of 2025. It is an absolute pleasure serving all of you as the Trumbull Superintendent of Schools, and I wish you all a safe and enjoyable summer!