November 3, 2017
Norwalk Public Schools News & Information
Academically Talented Re-Design Kickoff

The newly formed Academically Talented (AT) and Gifted redesign committee launched on October 25. The goal of the redesign, which is part of the NPS 2016-2019 Strategic Operating plan, is to develop a modern, innovative program for gifted students utilizing an evidence-based national model and highly trained staff. 

The redesign team will examine all aspects of an exemplary program, and study successful models such as the Renzulli school-wide enrichment model. Consultants from the University of Connecticut Neag School of Education will work closely with the redesign committee, which is composed of parents, principals and administrators from the district, as well as a student. For a complete list of team members visit norwalkps.org .
“We are eagerly working to develop a strategic method to identify academically talented students, and an elevated curriculum that will support gifted students while positioning Norwalk as one of the strongest districts in the state for gifted education,” said NPS Chief of Specialized Learning and Student Services Yvette Goorevitch.
Superintendent's Contract Extended

At its meeting on November 2, the Board of Education unanimously approved a contract extension for Dr. Steven Adamowski, superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools. Dr. Adamowski’s contract will now run through June 30, 2020, ensuring leadership continuity as work continues on implementing the district’s Strategic Operating Plan.
Interim Chief Academic Officer Named
During the nationwide search for a new Chief Academic Officer, K-12 Mathematics Instructional Specialist Craig Creller will serve as Interim Chief Academic Officer. Mr. Creller will work closely with the superintendent and educators in the Curriculum Department to continue the progress on academic initiatives such as Middle School Redesign, implementation of rigorous new reading and math curriculums, and the expansion of summer learning.

A former middle and high school teacher, Mr. Creller’s career in education has spanned 27 years. He joined Norwalk Public Schools seven years ago as the district mathematics leader, and has also served as interim principal at Jefferson Science Magnet School. Creller holds a Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Leadership, and a Master of Science in Elementary Education. He is currently enrolled in the UCONN/NEAG Superintendent Leadership program. 
Middle School Redesign Earns Roton 
Honors

Roton Middle School has been selected to present at the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development National Conference in Boston, on March 23, 2018. Roton Principal Joseph Vellucci and colleagues will present a 90 minute presentation outlining the positive changes that have been implemented at Roton during the past two years. Highlights will include the implementation of block scheduling, which increases the amount of time allotted for math instruction, Tier II reading and math interventions, and ENCORE program offerings that provide enrichment, exploration and application of the core curriculum. Congratulations to all at Roton!
 
NPS Kindergarteners Receive Library Cards
Over 800 NPS kindergarteners across the district will receive library cards through a program organized by the Norwalk Public Library and NPS Early Childhood department. The excitement kicked off with a rally at Tracey Elementary School, where all students received library card applications and a copy of the book “Lola at the Library.” Families can bring completed applications to either Norwalk Public Library location, or they can return the application to their child's teacher. Many thanks to Norwalk Public Library Assistant Director Sherelle Harris, also a Board of Education member for helping to coordinate this wonderful program.

27 th Annual Fun Run

Whether you are an avid runner, or just want to spend a great day letting your inner athlete run wild, the Fun Run is the perfect activity. The NPS Physical Education Department and the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium have partnered to hold the 27 th annual Fun Run on December 2 at 10am at Vets Park for all students K-12. The course is 1.2 miles long and runs from Vets Park to the Maritime Center. A digital flyer will be sent to families through PeachJar with additional details on registration. More information is also available online .
Mandatory Radon Testing In Schools

Radon testing will be conducted in all NPS schools in November. According to Connecticut General Statute Section 10-220(d), the indoor air quality of school buildings must be inspected and evaluated every five years. This re-evaluation of air quality includes checking for radon in the air. All test kits will be set up in areas out of reach of students, and with warning signs. Click here for Radon testing dates, facts and information on radon provided by the State Department of Public Health.


Digital Flyer Survey

Peachjar, a digital flyer management system that notifies parents of school approved events and activities went live on November 1. The system sends digital flyers directly to parents’ inboxes and posts them online. For more information on Peachjar click here.

Flyers will be sent once a week. To make sure that Peachjar is delivered in the most efficient way, we want to hear from you about which day of the week you would prefer to receive flyers.

Please take a minute to provide your input through a brief survey. We appreciate your time and opinion.
When in the week would you like to receive digital flyers via email?
Early in the week (Monday or Tuesday)
Mid-week (Wednesday or Thursday)
End of the week (Friday)
No School For Students On November 7

On Tuesday, November 7, schools will be closed for all NPS students due to Election Day. Teachers and administrators will participate in our districtwide Professional Development day. A comprehensive schedule of workshops has been developed that are customized for individual schools and practitioners.

Tuesday, November 7 , Election Day, Professional Development Day, No School

Tuesday, November 7 , Policy Committee Meeting, 6-7pm, Room 333

Thursday, November 9 , Finance Committee Meeting, 6-7pm, Room 333

Tuesday, November 14 , Ad-Hoc SpecEd Committee Meeting , 5:30-6:45pm, Room 322

Tuesday, November 14, Board Workshop, 7-9pm, Room A300
Norwalk Public Schools
125 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06852
Phone: 203-854-4000
This newsletter is compiled & published by the NPS Communications Department.
Have a question about our school district or an item to share?
Contact Brenda Wilcox Williams, Chief Communications Officer, williams@norwalkps.org , or call 203-854-4003.