East Haven Public Schools
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East Haven Public Schools Community,
It has been an honor serving as your interim superintendent this year, and I am humbled by the trust placed in me by our Board of Education. It is with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude that I accept the official appointment to the role of Superintendent of Schools.
It is a privilege to lead this exceptional learning community, and I remain dedicated to working in partnership with each of you to foster students’ sense of belonging while fortifying their access to expanded educational opportunities. My experience in working with you this year has reinforced my core beliefs:
- Every student in East Haven Public Schools deserves the best education possible. Academic and social/emotional/behavioral growth happens when we communicate high expectations and plan supports that help students build independence and responsibility for their learning.
- Adult and systems learning are at the core of school improvement. Professional learning is essential for all educators, and it is most effective when it is contextualized, reflective, and ongoing.
- The trust of all partners and constituents–families, community members, district personnel–is earned and maintained through collaboration, coherence, and transparency. This is the foundation of respectful, productive relationships that foster the conditions for student success.
- When decision-making is collaborative, data-informed, and student-centered, we reflect and grow to do what is best for students. Our families and community members are essential partners in this process.
Realizing our vision requires the active engagement of our entire community. Each of you possesses unique gifts and talents that are critical to our success. By working collaboratively, I know that we can maintain a focus on our shared goals and ensure that our district is a place where our students, families, and staff are supported to thrive.
I remain grateful to be part of this East Haven family, and I look forward to the future we are building together.
In partnership,
Adam Swinney
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April 22nd was Earth Day! This week made for the perfect time for first grade students from Tuttle Elementary School to visit East Haven High School for a joyful Earth Day experience hosted by the EHHS EDrising students. Under the leadership of student ambassadors, Kayla Federico and Diego Mendez, the event brought together younger and older students in a celebration of learning and environmental stewardship.
The visit began in the high school library, where Kayla read The Magic School Bus Plants Seeds, introducing students to the basics of how plants grow. Following the story, Diego guided the first graders through a hands-on scavenger hunt in the garden outside the culinary classroom, where they explored and identified the different stages of a plant’s life cycle.
Students then gathered in the garden to decorate their own plant pots and plant pumpkin seeds to take home—an experience that connected classroom learning to real-world application. The day concluded with a special treat prepared by the EHHS culinary department: “dirt cups” made with whipped cream, Oreo crumbles, and gummy worms.
This engaging and collaborative event highlighted the power of cross-grade connections while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
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As we prepare for end-of-year summative testing, Social Emotional Learning and Family Engagement Specialist, Stephanie Rivellini, speaks openly with educators and students about the upcoming Smarter Balanced Assessment.
CLICK HERE to listen to the latest episode of the Engagement Exchange!
This episode, From Challenges to Triumphs: Supporting Resilience in Students, explores the importance of both academic and emotional readiness and the practical tips we can use at school and home to support our students.
Don't forget to check out these related resources:
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Middle School Aviation Explorers Club students visited Sikorsky Memorial Airport for a behind-the-scenes tour that deepened their understanding of the aviation field. During the visit, students learned how principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are applied in aircraft design, maintenance, and flight operations. They were introduced to key engineering and manufacturing processes, including how components are constructed, tested, and maintained to ensure safety and performance. Students also engaged directly with industry professionals, asking questions about career pathways, daily responsibilities, and the evolving future of aviation technology.
The experience provided a meaningful connection between classroom learning and real-world applications, sparking curiosity and expanding students’ awareness of opportunities in aviation and engineering careers.
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East Haven Academy energized students with a full-school “Mad Science” Day just before spring break, transforming the building into a hands-on STEM learning environment. Students were grouped by grade bands (1–4 and 5–8) and rotated through a dynamic schedule that included the engaging Fire & Ice Assembly and 45 minutes of exploration across five interactive STEM stations in the cafeteria.
Each station encouraged inquiry, problem-solving, and collaboration, allowing students to apply scientific thinking in creative and memorable ways. The excitement was evident as students and staff alike experimented with the “boom blaster” and as older students eagerly constructed towering designs with magnatiles. This immersive experience made STEM learning meaningful, accessible, and fun for all learners.
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Soleil Layedra’s soccer journey is a story of resilience, growth, and determination in the face of adversity. Unlike many athletes who have played their sport for years, Soleil didn’t begin her soccer career until her sophomore year of high school. Starting at the junior varsity level, she quickly developed her skills and understanding of the game. Her hard work paid off when she earned a spot on the varsity team as a junior, where she became a consistent starter and key contributor on the field.
Just as things were coming together, Soleil faced a major setback. Midway through the season, she suffered a torn ACL injury that sidelined her for the remainder of the year. It was a difficult moment, forcing her to shift from competing on the field to focusing on recovery off of it. The road back has not been easy. Surgery and rehabilitation brought physical and mental challenges, making the process both stressful and demanding. Despite the slow and often frustrating nature of recovery, Soleil remained committed, putting in countless hours in physical therapy to regain her strength and mobility.
Throughout this process, she credits Mark Aceto, EHPS Athletic Trainer, for playing a significant role in her progress. His guidance and support during physical therapy helped push her forward and accelerate her recovery.
Now, after months of hard work and perseverance, Soleil is making strong progress and preparing for a return to the field for her senior year. Her journey reflects not only her dedication to the sport, but also her toughness and determination to overcome obstacles. Soleil Layedra’s story is far from over and her comeback will be one to watch!
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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 4/27: What did you do when something didn’t go as planned?
Week of 5/4: Who was respectful to you today? How did that make you feel?
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Did you know that simple, everyday actions can boost happiness and well-being for both children and adults? Research shows that spending time together, accomplishing small goals, and finding meaning in daily life all help us feel more positive and connected. This week, we invite your family to try one small activity each day:
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Connect: Spend quality time together: talk, play a game, or share a meal.
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Accomplish: Set a small goal and celebrate when you complete it (even something simple!).
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Find Meaning: Do something kind, help someone, or reflect on what matters most to your family.
How this connects to our Vision of the Graduate:
By practicing these habits, students build important life skills like being a responsible citizen, an informed thinker, a goal-directed & resilient individual, a resourceful problem-solver, and a powerful and effective communicator. When children feel connected, capable, and purposeful, they are better prepared to thrive both in school and beyond.
Challenge your family: Try one of these "Happiness Builders" each day for a week and notice the difference!
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District Information & Resources
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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.
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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. |
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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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! |
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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.
Let’s partner together to ensure that every child attends school regularly and has the best possible opportunity to achieve.
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East Haven District & Community Information & Resources |
Support safe communities by participating in DEA National Prescription Take Back Day on April 25th from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. This nationwide effort provides a safe, convenient way to dispose of unused or expired medications—helping prevent misuse, protect our environment, and keep our homes safe. Turn in unneeded medication for safe disposal with no questions asked.
East Haven's drop-off site is: The East Haven Police Department, 471 North High Street.
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You are invited to the grad re-opening of the Hagaman Library on May 2, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Come on out to this fun family event! There will be games, music, storytime, giveaways and treats - fun for all ages! |
Beyond Words: Tuning Into Your Child's Inner World is a free, safe and supportive parenting workshop. Circle of Security Parenting is an attachment based parenting education program that helps parents better understand and build on their relationships with their children.
When: Tuesdays
May 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, June 2nd & 9th
Time: 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Place: East Haven High School in Room S106
For more information and to register for this class, please reach out to Gisela Layedra at 203-468-3261 ext. 21006.
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East Haven Family Meals are every Wednesday at the East Haven Senior Center, 91 Taylor Avenue.
Dine-in meals are for families with children only. Takeout meals are available for all. Enjoy crafts with the Hagaman Library.
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:
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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.
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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.
Join Us for an Information Session
To help families navigate this transition, we are hosting Kindergarten Information Sessions. Join us to meet staff, ask questions, and learn more about the curriculum and daily life in our classrooms.
When: Monday, March 16th
Time: 6-7:00 PM
Locations: Deer Run School, Momauguin School & Tuttle School (please attend at your child's home school)
How to Register
Starting the enrollment process is a simple two-step journey:
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Start Online: Families should begin by completing the initial registration forms through our online portal [CLICK HERE to Begin].
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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.
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Click on the QR code below to register online for Overbrook Pre-K for the 2026-2027 school year. |
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. |
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: 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 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:
April 28
May 12 & 26
June 9 & 23
July 7 & 21
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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!
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Ages 2 and under meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Ages 2-5 meet on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Please register for playgroups in advance with the QR code or contact (203) 468-3305. |
Location: 35 Wheelbarrow Lane, East Haven, CT, USA
Phone: (203) 468-3261
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