Wesley Elementary

Recently, Connecticut Commissioner of Education Charlene Russell-Tucker met with MHS students to hear their perspectives on diversifying education. Leaders from GIFTS, Men of Excellence, and Educators Rising shared thoughtful insights and ideas on shaping Connecticut's educational future. Their voices matter—click the link to learn more: https://www.middletownschools.org/article/2094665 #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Susan Velardi, an exceptional fourth grade teacher at Bielefield Elementary School who's making learning a joyful experience for our Bobcats! Nominated by Jessica Vollono, a Bielefield community member, Mrs. Velardi exemplifies the dedication that makes elementary education so powerful. "Mrs. Velardi goes above and beyond for her students. She always knows the right things to say or do to brighten their day!" shares Jessica. These daily moments of connection and encouragement create the foundation for student success both academically and emotionally. In her classroom, Mrs. Velardi creates an environment where students feel supported, understood, and inspired to realize their innate brilliance. Through her thoughtful interactions and genuine care, she's building confidence in our fourth graders that will serve them well beyond their elementary years. We're truly fortunate to have educators like Mrs. Velardi who Jessica rightfully describes as "an amazing asset!" ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Our Family Climate & Culture Survey is open through March! Your anonymous feedback helps make our schools better for everyone. Complete a separate survey for each child at different schools. Click the link to participate and help shape our future: https://www.middletownschools.org/page/mps-culture-and-climate #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Robert "Bobby" Bissell, a Campus Security Officer at Middletown High School who proves that true security comes from building relationships. Nominated by a colleague who has witnessed firsthand how Bobby transforms the school environment through positivity and personal connection. "Bobby is positive and encouraging every day to every student. Calls them by name," shares his nominator. This intentional approach makes a profound difference—as one student told him directly, "he makes her day." What might seem like small interactions are actually powerful moments that shape our students' educational experience. When learning of his nomination, Bobby's response revealed his dedication: "I hope I am not the anonymous one because this, to me, is an honor and I'd love to know who recognized how I have connected with these kids over the last few years... I made it a point to do so when I was hired." We're grateful for staff members like Bobby who understand that security isn't just about protocols—it's about creating an environment where students feel seen, known, and valued every single day. ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms

Meet Pam Loh, a TESOL Teacher at Middletown High School who's making a profound difference for multilingual learners across all four grades! Nominated by one of her students who simply stated: "Mrs. Loh is a teacher who helps people to speak another language." Learning a new language opens doors to opportunities, and Mrs. Loh holds those doors wide open for her students every day. As one of just two TESOL teachers at MHS, Mrs. Loh brings exceptional expertise to our students with her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Saint Joseph. Now in her third year, she's already made significant contributions through her skills in ESOL, assessment protocols, and educational technology, creating a supportive environment where students thrive on their language journey. We're fortunate to have educators like Mrs. Loh who empower our students to find their voice and succeed! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPSFutureMakers #MPS4ALL

Save the Date! Join us for a special celebration honoring Women's History & Black History Months on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 1-3 PM at Beman Middle School. Enjoy poetry, music, and historical presentations, including special performances by Middletown High School's GIFTS (Girls Inspired for Total Success) and others. This community event celebrates our rich diversity and shared history. RSVP using the link in our bio or here: tinyurl.com/HistoryEventMarch29

Meet Amy Barron, the extraordinary School Psychologist at Spencer Elementary who's elevating student success at MPS! Colleague Pam Ingersoll nominated Amy for her contributions to the Spencer School community. "Amy is one of the most gifted school psychologists I have ever met," shares Pam. "Her counseling sessions with students are always thoughtful; filled with visuals and tailored precisely to what each student needs." Always available for staff, parents, and outside providers, Amy's dedication to our school community shines through in everything she does. According to Pam, Amy's skill at writing integrated evaluations is "second to none," making her an invaluable resource for many at Spencer Elementary. We're fortunate to have dedicated professionals like Amy in Middletown Public Schools—going above and beyond for our students every single day! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms

🎭✨ We’re all in this together! ✨🎭 Come get’cha head in the game as the MHS Drama Club presents High School Musical: On Stage! 📅 Show Dates: 📍TONIGHT! March 6th 📍Friday, March 7th at 7pm 📍 Saturday, March 8th at 1pm & 7pm 📍 Santo Fragilio Performing Arts Center at MHS 🎟️ Get your tickets now: https://middletownpac.ludus.com/ See you there, Wildcats! 🏀

Parents of 2020 'Ber Babies! Is your little one turning 5 after September 1, 2025? We have something special just for them! Come join our FREE Kindergarten Preparatory Academy (KPA)! Your child will love: --> Learning with friendly, certified teachers --> Fun, hands-on learning environment --> Free transportation, breakfast & lunch --> Before/after care options There aren't many spots left, so sign up soon! Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/MPSKPA25 *2020 'Ber Babies were born in September, October, November, and December of 2020. #MPSFutureMakers #MPS4ALL

Calling the Class of 2038! Kindergarten registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now OPEN! Please find registration, open house, and screening information for Kindergarten here: https://tinyurl.com/MPSKinder25 #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Sophia Mazzota, a remarkable MHS student nominated by her mother Mari! This High Honors student excels in AP classes and shines in Jazz Band and Marching Band. Beyond academics, Sophia's passionate about crew, theater, and community service. Her creative spirit shows through her handmade crafts - from crocheted purses to sea glass jewelry and soy candles. When she's not managing her mini-farm of chickens, cats, bunny, and chameleon, you might find her in the kitchen perfecting her homemade pasta and sourdough! With dreams of becoming a doctor and aspirations to attend Amherst College or Brown University, Sophia exemplifies the bright future of MHS! Know a remarkable MPS student deserving recognition? Nominate them here: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPSFutureMakers #MPS4ALL

Is your child a 2020 'Ber Baby? Give them the perfect start at Middletown's Kindergarten Preparatory Academy (KPA)! This is a FREE program designed specifically for children turning 5 after September 1st, featuring: --> Certified teachers --> Fun, hands-on learning environment --> Free transportation, breakfast & lunch --> Before/after care options Limited spots available - secure your child's future today! More info here: https://www.middletownschools.org/o/mps/page/k-entry-age#kpa #MPSFutureMakers #MPS4ALL

Winter Recess has arrived! A reminder that: --> All schools and offices will be CLOSED on Monday, Feb 17, 2025. --> All schools will remain CLOSED on Tuesday, Feb 18 AND Wednesday, Feb 19, 2025 --> Central Office only will be open on Tuesday, Feb 18 AND Wednesday, Feb 19, 2025. If you need to visit, please call ahead to confirm staff availability (860-638-1401). --> All schools will REOPEN on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Have a safe and fun winter recess!

Due to the anticipated snow fall, all Middletown Public School buildings will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, February 6, 2025. Before and after school programs will be cancelled and District offices will also be closed. Stay safe & enjoy the day.

Thank you to Mrs. Barton, Mr. Shugrue, and Ms. Hunt (Dance Team) for their dedication and expertise in teaching students and preparing them for the winter concert performances. The students did an outstanding job showcasing their hard work and sharing their music and dance with the audience. A big thank you to the parents and family members who attended the concerts and showed their support.

Due to the weather, all schools will have a 2-hour delay today, Monday, December 16, 2024 and morning preschool sessions are canceled. This delay applies to all students, teachers, administrators, and non-essential/emergency employees. A couple notes: + Morning buses will still pick-up, but will also be on a 2-hour delay. + This delay does not affect afternoon preschool sessions. + Breakfast will not be served at school this morning. + Kid Korner will open at 9:00 AM. +Students cannot be dropped off prior to the delayed start time. School hours are included below and available on the MPS Website: + Middletown High School: Begins at 9:25 AM and dismiss at 2:20 PM + Beman Middle School: Begins at 10:05 AM and dismiss at 3:00PM + All Elementary Schools: Begin at 10:50 AM and dismiss at 3:45 PM Preschool hours are below and available on the MPS Website: + PreK Full Day at Bielefield, Snow, & Spencer: Begin at 11:00AM and dismiss at 3:45 PM + PreK Half Day AM at Snow: Canceled + PreK Half Day PM at Snow: Normal arrival at 1:15 PM and dismiss at 4:00 PM Please be safe and have a great day.

THANK YOU from Ms. Otto and our MHS Orchestra! Our December 7th Coffee House fundraiser was a huge success thanks to our amazing community! Your generous support helped us raise over $500 for orchestra trips, activities, and our special musical tribute to Delilah Van Ness. We're so grateful to everyone who came out to support our student musicians! #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Due to the weather, all schools will have a 2-hour delay today, Thursday, December 5, 2024. This delay applies to all students, teachers, administrators, and non-essential/emergency employees. Scheduled elementary parent-teacher conferences will still take place today. This means that elementary students will have an early dismissal at 1:00 PM as previously scheduled. A couple notes: + Morning buses will still pick-up, but will also be on a 2-hour delay. + This delay does not affect afternoon preschool sessions. + Breakfast will not be served at school this morning. + Kid Korner will open at 9 AM. + Students cannot be dropped off prior to the delayed start time. School hours are included below and available on the MPS Website: + Middletown High School: Begins at 9:25 AM and dismiss at 2:20 PM + Beman Middle School: Begin at 10:05 AM and dismiss at 3:00PM + All Elementary Schools: Begin at 10:50 AM and dismiss at 1:00 PM (today only due to conferences) Preschool hours are below and available on the MPS Website: + PreK Full Day at Bielefield, Snow, & Spencer: Begin at 11:00AM and dismiss at 3:45 PM + PreK Half Day AM at Snow: Canceled + PreK Half Day PM at Snow: Normal arrival at 1:15 PM and dismiss at 4:00 PM Please be safe and have a great day.

Beman Families: Join us for an Informational Session this Wednesday, December 4, 2024, where we'll introduce Beman Families to the Yondr Pouches. From 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Zoom, discover how these pouches are helping us to create a focused learning environment for our students. We'll share how we're implementing the Yondr system and answer questions that have been submitted in advance. This session will be recorded and shared on our website after the event. Families are encouraged to submit their questions in advance here: https://forms.gle/tEsE2PykQd3tMory7 (link also in bio on Instagram) Info Session for Beman Families Topic: Yondr Pouches Wednesday, December 4, 2024 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM The Zoom Link will be shared with all Beman families via ParentSquare the afternoon of December 4, 2024.

Middletown Public Schools wishes all who celebrate a joy- and belly-filled Thanksgiving. We are grateful for our students, families, faculty, staff, board, and community members. Please find a Thanksgiving message from Dr. Vázquez Matos here: tinyurl.com/ThankYouMPS #MPS4ALL