As we step into the 2025–2026 school year, my second as your superintendent, I am both proud of the progress we’ve made together and excited for the road ahead. Building upon our strong foundation of academic excellence, student well-being, and innovative teaching and learning will remain our focus. My commitment remains simple but unwavering: to ensure that every student in our care thrives.
Kindness Matters
Every student and staff member deserves to learn and work in a safe and supportive environment. This priority is shared by our Board of Education and is my most important charge as superintendent.
This year, we are taking an intentional step forward by introducing a “Kindness Statement” into every school handbook. Inspired by the Meghan Voisine Foundation, the statement affirms that mean behavior, unkind words, discrimination, racism and any form of hurtful conduct have no place in our schools.
To ensure these words lead to action, each school now has a climate committee— including students, parents, and staff—dedicated to promoting a positive school culture and addressing concerns before they grow.
Key Initiatives for 2025–2026
We have exciting district-wide initiatives that will advance learning and strengthen our schools this year:
• New Elementary Reading and Mathematics Program
This is the second year of our implementation at Spaulding and McAlister Schools. Early results show student engagement is up, and achievement is growing. Our teachers and administrators
deserve tremendous credit for embracing this change and making it a success.
• Enhancing Instructional Strategies
At the secondary level, teachers will collaborate on innovative, student-centered practices that meet diverse learning needs. We
will also explore appropriate uses of Artificial Intelligence to support teaching and enhance learning opportunities.
• Expanding Place-Based Learning
Using our local environment and community as a classroom fosters curiosity, problem-solving, and physical well-being. Over the next five years, we aim to become a state leader in place-based education by giving our students learning experiences they will carry with them for life.
• Opening of the SHS STEAM Lab
Thanks to the support of our community, the new STEAM Lab at Suffield High School opened this fall. This cutting-edge space blends advanced technology with traditional tools, creating
new opportunities for innovation in science, technology,
engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Middle School Building Project
It is clear from the report of the Permanent Building Commission that a new or newly renovated middle school will be necessary
to ensure a safe and appropriate learning environment for students and staff. We look forward to collaborating with town officials and sharing why a middle school building project will improve teaching and learning for decades to come.
The support of the community is the foundation of every successful school district and what makes Suffield so special. Together, we will make this a year of growth, innovation, and lasting impact for every student in Suffield.