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3-27-26 East Haven Public Schools District Newsletter

Posted Date: 03/27/26 (04:00 PM)


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East Haven Public Schools

District Newsletter

March 27, 2026
Dear EHPS Community,

As we move past the peak of cold and flu season, and welcome warmer spring weather, we want to share a heartfelt thank you for your partnership in keeping our school community healthy and focused. Now is the perfect time to revisit attendance goals at home to ensure every student ends the year on a high note.

Remember, every day in the classroom counts:
  • 10% Threshold: Research shows that missing just 10% of the school year—roughly 18 days—can negatively impact student engagement and academic progress.
  • Consistency Matters: This impact occurs regardless of whether an absence is "excused" or "unexcused." Being physically present is the best way to stay connected to learning.

We do recognize that there may be personal extenuating circumstances, and our school teams stand ready to work alongside you to develop support plans when necessary. Let’s work together to finish the year strong with consistent, daily attendance.

In partnership,
Adam Swinney
Interim Superintendent

Attendance Matters

 
Strong attendance is directly tied to academic success. Please help us by making school attendance a top priority for your child. Missing more than 2 days of school per month places a student in the category of being chronically absent—something we work hard to prevent, since attendance impacts learning at every stage of a child’s education.

  • Preschool: Building strong routines around attendance starts early. Even at age 3, developing the habit of coming to school every day sets the foundation for a child’s future success.
  • Elementary School: Research shows that students who miss more than 2 days per month are at risk of not reading on grade level by the end of grade 3—a key milestone for future achievement.
  • Middle School: Consistent attendance helps students stay connected to their peers, prepared for daily lessons, and ready to take on more rigorous coursework that builds the bridge to high school success.
  • High School: Attendance is directly tied to credit. Missing too many days of school may result in loss of course credit, which can prevent students from staying on track to graduate within four years. Daily attendance is one of the strongest indicators of graduating on time and being prepared for college, career, or the military.

Let’s partner together to ensure that every child attends school regularly and has the best possible opportunity to achieve.
 
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District Highlights

March Student of the Month & Attendance Recognition

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Attendance Recognition Award Recipients

Biagio Onofrio, grade Pre K4-Overbrook
Radiatu Ouro Bode, grade K-Momauguin
Leo Garcia, grade 2-Tuttle
Aiden Ruggiero, grade 2-Deer Run
Enzo Oliveras & Orlando Oliveras, grades 2&6-EHA
Alexandra Arias Moncada, grade 5-Ferrara
Jalisa Hernandez, grade 8-JMMS
Camren Manciero, grade 12-EHHS

Student of the Month Award Recipients

Matteo Rivera Gonzalez, grade Pre K4-Overbrook
Gennaro Vitale, grade K-Momauguin
Keanu McKeithen, grade 2-Deer Run
Madelyn Richardson, grade 2-EHA
Amara Stephens, grade 2-Tuttle
Gianna Chiriboga, grade 5-Ferrara
Jenny Jones-Davenport, grade 7-JMMS
Keara DeMatteo, grade 12-EHHS
 

EH Rotary Student of the Month

Kayla Federico is an outstanding student who exemplifies dedication, leadership, and involvement in our school community. She is a member of the Girls Varsity Tennis team and actively participates in numerous organizations, including the National Honor Society, Yearbook Club, Writing Committee, Maritime Club—where she served as Treasurer during her junior year—Winter Percussion, Marching Band, and EdRising.

Kayla’s commitment to both academics and extracurricular activities highlights her strong work ethic and passion for making a positive impact. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a career in the medical field as a pediatric Physician Assistant.
 

East Haven Middle School Drama Club Proudly Unveils 'Seussical Jr. '

Oh, the places they went! Our middle school drama club whisked audiences away on a colorful adventure with their delightful production of 'Seussical Jr.' From whimsical Whos to courageous heroes, students brought imagination to life with heart, humor, and a whole lot of “think and wonder.”

Audiences watched as the stage came alive in a burst of rhyme and creativity, transporting audiences to a world where anything is possible—from the smallest speck of dust to the grandest jungle adventure, showcasing their creativity, talent, and joy for performance.

Bravo to the cast, crew, and directors for bringing such a magical experience to our community! Their energy and talent reminded us all that a person’s a person—no matter how small—and that the arts continue to shine brightly in our schools.
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Standby for East Haven High School's Drama Club Production of 'Bye Bye Birdie'

The High School Drama Club is excited to present this year’s spring musical, 'Bye Bye Birdie!' Filled with lively songs, energetic dance numbers, and plenty of humor, this classic production promises an evening of fun for the whole family.

Our talented students have been working tirelessly to bring this beloved story to life—don’t miss the chance to support their hard work and enjoy a fantastic night of theater.

Production dates are April 9th, 10th and 11th.
Tickets are now on sale for 'Bye Bye Birdie!' Purchase at the door and online at Ehhsdramaclub.ludus.com
 

Aviation Explorers Program Travels to Washington, D.C.

Middle School students in our Aviation Explorers program recently embarked on an unforgettable overnight field trip to Washington, D.C., in partnership with Avelo Airlines. This immersive experience brought classroom learning to life as students explored iconic national landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

A highlight of the trip was a visit to the NASA exhibits at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where students engaged with the history and future of aviation and space exploration. The experience not only deepened their understanding of flight and engineering but also inspired curiosity and ambition as they connected their studies to real-world innovation.
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Athletic Spotlight

Gianna Dilapi: Track & Field Athlete

For Gianna Dilapi, track and field is more than a sport—it’s a passion she rediscovered at just the right time. Now a captain of the outdoor track team, Gianna returned to the sport her sophomore year after several years away, quickly realizing how much she had missed competing.

Since her return, she has been a consistent force, qualifying for the state championships each season—an achievement that reflects her dedication, work ethic, and competitive spirit. Gianna also values the strong team culture, crediting her teammates for creating a supportive environment that pushes everyone to improve.

A multi-sport leader, Gianna serves as a captain of the girls soccer team as well, demonstrating her ability to lead, motivate, and connect with others. Her positive attitude and leadership make her a role model for younger student-athletes.

Looking ahead, Gianna plans to continue her athletic career at the collegiate level while pursuing a degree in accounting. With her determination and drive, she is well positioned for continued success both on and off the field.
 

Family Engagement

Vision of the Graduate "Unpack Your Day" Weekly Prompt

EHPS Backpack

"Unpack Your Day"

Use this prompt any day of the week to talk with your child about school, feelings, and daily experiences in a fun and meaningful way.

Week of 3/30: What book, story, or fact stuck with you today?

Week of 4/6: What is something you finished today that made you proud?

Community Connections!

Elementary students celebrated the season by creating colorful, spring-themed eggs, which will be on display at the Shoreline Trolley Museum's Springtime Event. Families are invited to see the students’ work in person!  Students who participated in this activity each received one free child ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.

This activity also reflects our Vision of the Graduate attributes:
  • Responsible Citizen – students worked together as a community to contribute to this East Haven event.
  • Powerful & Effective Communicator – students shared a message of springtime positivity through their colors, patterns, and designs.

Event Dates: March 28, 29 & April 3, 4
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District Information & Resources

Sodexo Food Services Survey

Dear East Haven Community, 

Gaining feedback is essential in ensuring the success of the district’s child nutrition program. We have created a customer satisfaction survey to help collect accurate feedback from our students and parents/guardians.

This quick 5-minute survey will gather quantitative and qualitative data about the child nutrition program which we will use to enhance student experiences.

About the survey:

  • This is a nation-wide survey used to gain insight from school districts across the country
  • This is a smart survey meaning the survey will tailor the questions based on how participants answer initial queries
  • The survey is available in multiple languages
  • Survey results will be stored in a secure Sodexo system
  • The survey does not collect any personal information from participants
  • The elementary survey is geared towards parent/guardian response
  • The secondary survey is geared towards parents/guardians and/or students
Survey responses will be collected from Friday, March 27th until Friday, April 17th
 

Free Parent /Caregiver Course: Talking to Your Child About Vaping & Nicotine

The world of tobacco and nicotine use has changed dramatically in recent years, especially with the rise of vaping. For many parents and caregivers, it can feel overwhelming to keep up with current trends and know how to start meaningful conversations about these risks. To help, the American Lung Association has developed a free, one-hour online course designed specifically for parents, guardians, and caregivers of children ages 8–20.

This easy-to-follow course is divided into three helpful modules: an overview of today’s tobacco and nicotine landscape, strategies for prevention, and guidance on how to respond if you suspect your child may already be using. It offers practical tools and conversation starters to help you approach the topic in a supportive, informed, and non-judgmental way.
We encourage you to take advantage of this valuable resource and feel more confident navigating these important conversations at home. Click here to enroll in the course and learn how you can deliver an impactful message in a supportive, non-judgmental way.
 

The YMCA 2025-26 Before & After School Program at Hays School

Click here for information on the Hays School YMCA before and after school care program available to all East Haven students in Kindergarten through Grade 8. Morning TRANSPORTATION to school from the YMCA and afternoon TRANSPORTATION from school to the YMCA is provided!
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Enroll Your Child Today!

Did you know that all schools in East Haven have a school based health center where students can access behavioral and/or medical services right inside the school building? Click here to enroll your child today!
 

East Haven District & Community Information & Resources

2026-2027 Kindergarten Registration is OPEN

It is officially time to welcome our newest learners to the district! We are excited to announce that registration for the 2026-2027 school year is now open. If your child is ready to start their educational journey, we invite you to begin the process today.

How to Register
Starting the enrollment process is a simple two-step journey:
  1. Start Online: Families should begin by completing the initial registration forms through our online portal [CLICK HERE to Begin].
  2. Finalize In-Person: Once the online portion is complete, you will work directly with your child’s home school to submit required documents and finalize the paperwork in person.
 

Overbrook Pre-K Registration for the 2026-2027 School Year

Click on the QR code below to register online for Overbrook Pre-K for the 2026-2027 school year. 
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East Haven Adult Education Programs for Spring 2026

East Haven Adult Education is offering a high school completion, ESL Citizenship program free to East Haven residents. Enrichment classes are also availalbe. Scan the QR codes for the course catalog and to register for Spring 2026 programs.
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JMMS Tag Sale - Community Event

Saturday, April 25th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Joseph Melillo Middle School, 67 Hudson St. Tag sale will be in the back parking lot. The rain date will be May 2nd. 
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JMMS Tag Sale - Vendors Needed

Vendor deadline: April 15th. Event: Saturday, April 25th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Joseph Melillo Middle School, 67 Hudson St. The tag sale will be in the back parking lot.

The rain date will be May 2nd. Join us in our 3rd annual community-wide yard sale! Shop or sell!

Vendor spaces (size of a parking spot) First 2 spaces $20 (one parking space and one selling space). For questions contact: jmmsptc.eh@gmail.com
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Community Dining Room Events

Check out Breakfast Club at their new location at Overbrook Early Learning Center, 54 Gerrish Ave., East Haven from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Breakfast Club dates on Saturdays:
  • April 4th
  • May 2nd
  • May 16th
  • May 30th
 
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The East Haven Chamber of Commerce Presents The Kid's Entrepeneur Fair

The Kid's Entrepeneur Fair will be on Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 10 A.M.-2 P.M on the East Haven Town Green. We are looking for you! Open to ages 6-17 years old. Does your child have a special talent or hobby that they want to showcase and sell?

If interested please fill out the interest form at:
https://form.jotform.com/253625040522043

Interest forms are due by April 30th. 
Please note you will receive an acceptance email in May. You do not need to be an East Haven resident to apply. 
 

East Haven Rotary Club Hosts Breakfast with the Bunny

Rotary Club's Breakfast with the Bunny event is Saturday April 4th from 9:00 am to 11:30am at the East Haven Senior Center, 91 Taylor Ave.

  • Kids under 8 years old are free
  • Adults and kids over 8 years old are $5

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Circle of Security Parenting Classes: Virtual, Spring 2026

Circle of Security Parenting Virtual Meeting Group this Spring!

Meeting Details:
  • Thursdays, April 23 - June 11 (April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, June 4, June 11)
  • 6:00-7:00pm 
  • Virtually on Google Meet      
The Circle of Security Parenting™ program is based on decades of research about how secure parent-child relationships can be supported and strengthened. Click here to register for the Circle of Security Parenting Classes virtual spring classes.
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Diaper Bank Distribution

East Haven Family Resource Center and Community Dining sponsors the monthly Diaper Distribution at two East Haven locations. East Haven Residency Required. Only one pick up per month.

East Haven Senior Center, 91 Taylor Ave.
Distribution Dates: 4/8, 5/13 & 6/10
Time: 5 PM - 6 PM

Overbrook Early Learning Center, 54 Gerrish Ave.
Distribution Dates: 4/18, 5/30 & 6/27
Time: 9 AM - 10 AM
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East Haven's Mobile Food Pantry

East Haven's Mobile Food Pantry Distributions are every other Tuesday 2-2:45 p.m. at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, 355 Foxon Rd., East Haven
Walk up distribution. No residency required. Please bring your own bag.

Dates for 2026: 
March 3, 17 & 31
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Spring and Summer Events with Soundview Family YMCA

Healthy Kids Day event is on April 18th from 10 a.m. -1 p.m.
Events and activities include:
Laser Tag , Kid Zumba, Face Painting, Arts &
Crafts, Castle & Slide Bounce House,
School of Rock Band, Games and much more! This event is free to the public.

Soundview Family YMCA is once again is organizing Camp Hays as a summer day camp for East Haven youth. Guided by trusted staff, campers can look forward to growing in confidence, making new friends, and creating joyful memories that last long after summer ends.
Camp Hays is for East Haven residents only.

Daily & weekly activities include:
Swimming Lessons (Wednesdays), Sports, and Outdoor play Creative art and STEM projects
Archery and so much more!
Register today at: www.soundviewymca.org
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YMCA Camp Hi-Rock in Partnership with Soundview Family YMCA

The YMCA Camp Hi-Rock is coming to the area to hold information sessions at the Soundview Family YMCA on Saturday, February 21st and Tuesday, March 10th. We are the non-profit overnight sleep away camp for the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, affiliated locally with the Soundview Family YMCA. We offer camp programs to families and parents for children between the ages of 7 and 16. Hi-Rock also offers financial assistance to families in need.
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Foxon Rec League Softball Registration

Girls Softball Division 18U, 14U, 12U and 8U. Multi Town Recreational Travel. Session starts in May and runs through July. The cost is $125 per child/ multi child discount. Sign Ups are at Hays School, 1 Maple St. For more information contact Pat Cretella (203) 804-2072 or Liz Esposito (203) 627-9125.
 

East Haven Youth Soccer Spring Registration

Registrations are now being accepted for the Spring season! The season begins in April and runs through June. Please visit the website for further information and to complete Registrations: www.ehys.org
 

New Enrichment Programming Partnership with East Haven Youth Services

Don’t Miss Out: There is still time to register your child for upcoming cycles at Tuttle. For a total cost of $30 per program, students can participate in one of three dynamic tracks:
  • STEM Challenges
  • Creative Baking/Cooking
  • High Energy Adventure Sports Program

Each program runs for three weeks (please check the flyer for specific school dates).

How to Register: Visit easthavenrecreation.org to secure your spot today. If you need assistance with the registration process, please contact Andrea Kenney via email at akenney@easthaven-ct.gov or by phone at (203) 468-3376.
 
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Creative Arts Workshop

Summer Arts Adventures, sponsored by Creative Arts Workshop, located in the Audubon Arts District in New Haven. Weekly summer sessions from June 22nd through August 17th from 9am-4pm for ages 5-12. The program cost is $495 per week.

Classes take place in fully equipped art studios. Weekly themes include:
Clay, comics and cartoons, computer art, graphic novels, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, bookmaking, sewing, sculpture, collage and more!

Program Weekly Schedules are as follows:
June 22-26 & June 29- July 2
July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24 & July 27-31
August 3-7, August 10-14 & August 17-21
 

East Haven Family Resource Center

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Join the Family Resource Center Playgroup

Ages 2 and under meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am to 11:30am. Ages 2-5 meet on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30am to 11:30am. Please register for playgroups in advance with the QR code or contact (203) 468-3305.
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EHPS Quick Links

2025-2026 Quick Links

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you!

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East Haven Public Schools

Location: 35 Wheelbarrow Lane, East Haven, CT, USA
Phone: (203) 468-3261