A HUGE congratulations to the Class of 2025 on your graduation!! We are so proud of you and cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish in life!! Stay well!
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Senior Class Bestows Teacher of the Year Honor To Beloved Math Teacher Jennifer Nolan
The senior class selected Mrs. Jennifer Nolan as NHHS's 2025 Teacher of the Year! Nolan is a 20 year veteran teacher who has taught at NHHS for the last four year. She is well-known as a wonderful and caring educator and at the Senior Awards event was called on stage to make a speech and gifted with flowers. Nolan was also honored at the STEAM Induction/Awards ceremony by the NH Art Honor Society. The organization presented her with a flower basket, personalized aprons for daughters Katie and Annie and gift cards to Home Depot so the family can create and nurture a lovely garden and fond memories together.
Mrs. Nolan's speech at Senior Awards Night was heartfelt, inspiring and courageous.
It reads as follows:
"Thank you for this incredible honor. I am truly humbled to be named teacher of the year. A few years ago, I was close to walking away from teaching. I was burnt out, overwhelmed, and unsure if I was making a difference in the classroom. Then I came here to NHHS and everything changed. This community reminded me why I became a teacher. The students, staff, and administration brought my love for teaching back to life. I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
As many of you know, I lost my husband in April. This has truly been the hardest time of my life. My husband was my number one supporter and best friend. I was unsure if I would find the strength to return to the classroom. But when I came back I was met with so much compassion from the students and my co-workers. This school gave me purpose again and my students gave me something to look forward to each day. Teaching is at the heart of who I am.
Students here challenge me, inspire me, and remind me why education matters. You all make me the best version of me and I am truly grateful. The support I have received from this school community goes far beyond anything I could ever put into words. I am honored to be a part of North Haven High School and to receive this award. From the bottom of my heart - thank you."
North Haven students, staff and aministration send love and support to Mrs. Nolan and family
North Haven High School Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Nolan, is congratulated above by Supertintendent Patrick Stirk after receiving a standing ovation from the audience of seniors, family members, staff and friends. She delivered a moving and insightful speech that reflected the warmth and kindness that helped earn her this year's honor.
Nolan received flowers from the class of 2025 after being introduced as their Teacher of the Year selection. She is a NHHS Math teacher and a highly regarded member of her department and our school community. We wish Mrs. Nolan all the very best and extend our heartfelt congratulations. She and her family will remain in our thoughts.
School Heads Dedicated to North Haven Students/Staff and Quality Instruction
NHHS seniors say thanks...
Superintendent Patrick Stirk and Assistant Superintendent Melinda McKenna are pictured here at one of many ceremonies, events, and activities they attend throughout the school district each year. Despite their very busy schedules and various commitments and responsibilities, they manage to celebrate student successes whenever possible.
We are endlessly grateful to them for their hard work, dedication, and leadership and the many ways they provide guidance for North Haven schools, students, families and staff. We all remember how they navigated us through the pandemic with cool heads and warm hearts. They have impacted our lives in more positive ways than we could ever list and the NHHS class of 2025 thanks them from the bottom of our collective hearts!
Stirk and McKenna are often in attendance steadfastly supporting the good work and quality teaching and learning that take place in all six school buildings K-12. They have also been there helping us through the tough times. Recently, they were hugely instrumental in garnering voter support for the school budget which passed! It is consistently clear how much this dynamic duo cares about students and staff. Their top priority is protecting educational experiences and the invaluable people, programs and opportunities crucial to learning. We are endlessly grateful to them both for their guidance and leadership! Listen up underclassmen: The best is yet to come and thankfully, you are in excellent hands!
"I have loved my time here at North Haven High School. It is with bittersweet emotions that I leave to be closer to my home and family. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and thank each and every member of the NHHS and North Haven communities for welcoming me into your family. Go Nighthawks!"
Mr. Thomas Bushnell steps down from NHHS AP Post
Mr. Thomas Bushnell steps down from NHHS AP Post
Assistant Principal Thomas Bushnell has taken an administrative position in East Lyme where he resides with his family. He has been an assistant principal at North Haven High School for four years and made every one count significantly. We will miss his warmth, professionalism, and kindness. Mr. Bushnell was known for his caring and compassionate demeanor towards everyone in the building.
Mr. Bushnell has made an incredible impact on the student body and staff here at the high school. We wish him luck on his future endeavors!
Wishing you all the very best Mr. Bushnell! Please keep in touch!
Traveling with the Phoenix: Let's Visit Spain
By: Sophiea Runlett
Are you looking to visit a country known for its diverse landscapes and rich culture? Featuring additions of its historical background, completed with balanced modern aspects, Spain is the country that fits this description and might be the next place to add to your bucket list!
Each area of Spain offers different and equally alluring characteristics. In the Southeast sit the Baetic System and Pyreanes in the Northeast. These are the main mountainous areas in Spain contributing to the country’s 94 million tourist yearly visits. They incorporate unique wildlife, rich biodiversity, and preservation of the environment.
Along with the mountainous tourist attractions, Spain has a multitude of beautiful beaches such as Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife and Playa de la Concha in the Basque Country. What makes the beaches in Spain special is the cleanliness and environmental respect and attention the beaches get. In addition, they have many activities from surfing to boating explorations.
The culture of Spain shows a wide variety of its vibrant culture with aspects of art, music, and cuisine that have drawn people in to participate over the years. The people of Spain are known to have deep rooted family values, strong national pride, and expressive celebrations.
Religious holidays and all kinds of fiestas are taken very seriously in Spain and are important to the people. Holy Week and other Christian holidays are very valued since the religion of Christianity is practiced with 52% of Spainiards classifying themselves as Catholic.
Spanish cuisine is one of the most loved cuisines in the world from its delicious plate of tapas to a sweet dessert like churros. Spanish food is enjoyed and loved all over the world. However, food is much more to the people. Food is a way to gather people and celebrate all different things. It is said to help connect people and strengthen bonds between them.
The history of Spain is multifaceted with times of Roman ruling, The Reconquista, The Golden Age, The Spanish Civil War and many other impactful and powerful effects. Today, historical places can still be found in the country such as Toledo “The City of Three Cultures” which is still intact.
Here at North Haven high school and middle school, attends four siblings who lived in Spain from 2014-2015. Ella, Abby, Hunter, and Hannah Ray lived in Algete, a small town an hour outside of Madrid. They attended an English immersion school where they learned skills that continue to live with them. Abby Ray says, “I am very grateful I can remember it because of how surreal the experience was. The culture is so different there than in America and allowed me to see life through a different lens.”
NHHS Theater Students Dance the Night Away at Prom
Performers shine to shed light on message of inclusion and acceptance
Left to right: Sophia Petrillo, Carmella Blair, Emma Arenburg, Micheal Russo, Mya Spadacenta
Left to right: Viviana Rodriguez, Sean Meehan, Anthony Belbusti
Kara Starkey as Alyssa Greene and Keira Meehan as Emma Nolan
Taya Diggs and Keira Meehan
Left to right: Anthony Belbusti, Keira Meehan, Kara Starkey, Taya Diggs, Michael Russo, Nora Murdzek, Gabbriela Varrecchia
Costume Crew from left to right: Caitlyn Kastenhuber, Mrs. Speeg, Kilynn Mason
Viviana Rodriguez and Isabella Crouch
Director Jacqlyn Giordano is seen with her son, Angelo, who had a small role in the musical. The Cheetos were a prop and also a tasty perk!
NHHS Teachers that attended Thursday night's performance (left to right): Brittany Hansen, Elizabeth Jackson, Kelly Thibodeau, Carla Destefanis
Students Visit New Haven's Greatest treasure: Yale Art Gallery
NHHS Art classes gain insights into masterpieces that inspire and enrich programs and projects
Ceramic, Drawing and Painting, Photography, and Animation students of all levels visit Yale Art Gallery to immerse themselves in a formal art critique experience. The field trip took place on "free cone day" at Dairy Queen, so the group made a pit stop on the way home to end a special day with a sweet treat!
AP Drawing and Painting teacher, Mrs. Katherine Fountain, leads an art critique discussion with students during their Yale Art Gallery visit. Students were given lesson objectives and a list of questions based on experiences of the day and how they related to the curricula of different classes.
NHHS Art students gathered in front of the world-renowned Yale Art Gallery excited for their day of learning and enrichment. They critiqued and discussed famous works produced by master artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, Mondrian and Dali. Admission to this amazing best-kept secret is free!
From left to right: Kilynn Mason, Grace O'Brien, Rachel Sajan, Maria Ahmed, Shannon Sturdevant, Molly Kavanaugh, and Makayla Rosado toasted their vanilla cones to a lovely productive day!
From left to right: Caitlyn Kastenhuber, Hanako Moffat, Skye Carlisle, and Fiona Gao enjoy their tasty treats on "Free Cone Day" at Dairy Queen! A great big "thank you" to the crew there who served over 40 kids in fewer than 5 minutes. YUM!
Advanced Sewing Students Take a Trip to NYC
Current and former students from the advanced sewing class travel to NYC to visit well known fashion spots like Mood Fabrics and the Louis Vuitton flagships store!
Left to Right: Katie Upton, Madyson Renna, Zayna Saidi, Joe Maciejko, Ella Ray, Benita Boafo, Yasmin Lamkhantar, Mrs. Speeg
Advanced Photography Students Take On Boston To Explore Fabulous Photo Shoot Experiences
Mrs. Wade's Advanced Photography students capture photos of the bustling city life and New York landscape to add to their portfolios. They visited popular landmarks such as Quincey Market and Boston Commons.
The group enjoys lunch at Quincy Market, which offers a variety of foods and different cuisines.
Students gather for a photo in front of the Boston Commons sign
Anatomy Students Travel to Quinnipiac
On May 9th, students of Mr. Jacob's anatomy classes visited Quinnipiac's School Of Medicine. Here, they were able to explore the many different offerings of a medical school, including the labs, different machines, and other resources. Students were also able to hold preserved organs such as the heart and brain in a controlled classroom setting. They also participated in various activities, including an interactive investigation about the spread of infectious diseases. Finally, students were able to ask questions to a panel of QU students not only about Anatomy and Physiology, but about adjusting to college life.
One QU Health Science Major, Grace Pagano, shared her perspective on entering college. She admits that adjusting to the increased rigor of her classes was a struggle at first. She emphasized the importance of creating a healthy balance between academics and personal life, which helped her find more joy and enjoyment in the medical sciences.
Colleen Thompson, Associate Dean for Student Success at the school of Health Sciences, also spoke to students. She shared her love and passion for the school, praising it's ability to produce capable and skilled students. She expressed gratitude for the commitment of the students to their studies, and vocalized confidence in their abilities as they enter their various fields.
Students were able to enter a class lab and learn about different anatomical organs
Seniors (from left) Isabella Crouch, Katherine Marshall, and Amelia Bautz enjoy a pizza lunch after a day of learning
Quinnipiac students spoke to the Anatomy classes about their experiences in the medical field, as well as in a college environment
Jonathan Kahul listens intently as students learn about different organ systems in the human body
Students Compete in a Culinary Competition at Disney
nhhs students "cook up" a huge win with the celebrity chef's award
nhhs students "cook up" a huge win with the celebrity chef's award
The Culinary Arts Department attended "Cook Around the World" this past weekend. A food competition with 70 teams, all high school students, from all over the United States.
Amani Bernier, Anna Marie Piscitelli, Chelsea Chin-Mook, Sara Cebula, Jio Cintron, Matt Gifford competed and came home with the Celebrity Chef's Award. This is the second year in a row they have brought home an award and out of five times attending the department has come home with an award three times.
These are just small snapshots of the weekend:
Chelsea Chin-Mook talks to celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan about the quality of her work
From left to right: Ms. Planinshek, AnnaMarie Piscitelli, Chelsea Chin-Mook, Sara Cebula, Matthew Gifford, Jovani Cintron, Amani Bernier
Mrs.Traci Planinshek poses with the culinary competition awards NHHS students have earned throughout the years. Bravo to her and the students who excell under her amazing guidance and expertise!
Matt Gifford, Amani Bernier, and AnnaMarie Piscitelli listen to the rules of the competition
NHHS Graduates Featured on National News!
Triplets, Younes, Safia, and Anouar Benbrahim, attend Quinnipiac University and are featured on News 8 For National Triplet Day
Interview Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYE2Eq9x9GM
The triplets are fondly remembered here at NHHS and were recently interviewed on live television
Left to Right: Younes, Safia, and Anouar Benbrahim
National Art Honor Society Students Prep for Art Beat
Behind the scenes student artists offer valuable help to the NH Art Department in support of the event
Left to Right: Sophia Vollono, and Hailey Nicolella throw pottery for an Art Honor Society soup bowl fundraiser. Funds are used to support the Arts and various members of the school/local community dealing with trama, tragedy or illness.
Left to Right: Oilvia Coish, Grace O'Brien, and Shannon Sturdevant complete bowl designs by applying glaze in the signature Jackson Pollock style. The Culinary classes prepared and donated soup packets sold with the bowls as part of an interdisciplinary project across programs. Over many years, the organization has used time and talents and donated thousands of dollars to assist those in need.
Left to Right: Georgia Tancreti, Grace O'Brien, Melanie Petrillo, Maria Ahmed, and Olivia Coish use teamwork to create the good work!
Left to Right: Fiona Gao, Skye Carlisle, Hanako Moffat, and Zayna Saidi work diligently on ceramic platter designs using their AP Studio Art skills.
And the Art Beat Goes On: Over 1,000 Attend and Enjoy the Event
Hailey Nicolella demonstrated skills on the potter's wheel for young art students in attendance at Art Beat. She was kept busy all night as a popular artist in residence.
Left to Right: Mya Spadacenta, Kate Grudberg, Grace O'Brien, Georgia Tancreti, Sophia Vollono and Melanie Petrillo helped at the concessions stand.
Mrs. Traci Planinshek prepared baked goods and soup packages with her classes that were generously donated in support of various charitable causes.
Left to Right: Andrea August, Amalia Morizio and Olivia Coish worked at fund-raising tables selling raffle tickets and running an art-based scavenger hunt.
Showcases displayed both 2d and 3d artwork produced by students in Art electives at the middle school and high school including photos and pottery.
Jazz II performed live music under the direction of Mrs. Susan Oakley to the delight of crowds. It was a lovely addition to the "Arts" event.
Left to Right: Maria Ahmed and Shannon Sturdevant worked diligently drawing potraits of children who waited in line for there turn at the popular table.
Displays of 3D artwork were set up on tables by teachers of grades K-8 and reflected the variety and rigor of the Art program. Hundreds attended!
Students watched as Mason Lambert completed portraits as part of a fundraiser for the NH Art Honor Society.
North Haven residents viewed the artwork of AP drawing and painting students.
Parents took photos of their children in front of their masterpieces.
Kids posed with their portraits created by Shannon Sturdevant.
NH Students Exhibit Artwork at Quinnipiac's Kaleidoscope of Creativity (K0C) Art Show
NHHS Junior, Shannon Sturdevant, is recognized with a gift card and certificate for her artwork entry during that was presented during the student recognition portion of the KoC ceremony. North Haven and other area towns submit select pieces of work from each school for the display which stays up for the year in the conference area of the QU's Education Department. Congrats to all~
Music Department Travels to DC
In April, the NHHS music department took their annual trip for adjudication to Washington DC. This four day trip allowed students to see many historical sights, such as the National Mall, museums on American history, and even Ford's Theater! Traveling with seven ensembles, NHHS ended the trip by securing five superior and two excellent ratings, with Wind Ensemble and One Voice earning the awards for best overall band and choir ensembles respectively. Additionally, individual awards went to Chloe Diaz for her stunning vocal performance and Ty Zemba for his outstanding jazz solo!
From left to right: Sean Meehan, Chloe Diaz, Isabella Crouch, Michael Russo
Members of one voice listen to the advice of an adjudicator after their performance
Students gather for a photo inside the National Museum of American History
Inside Ford's Theater where Abraham Lincoln once sat
Music ensembles conclude their performances with a group photo
The Washington Monument seen from inside a nearby museum
National Art Honor Society Wins Door Decorating Contest!
The North Haven student council hosted a decorating competition to raise awareness for cancer. The National Art Honor Society was deemed the winner of the competition after being judged on message, color, design, and other criteria.
North Haven Model UN Faces Rivaling Schools in Hopkins Model UN Conference
The North Haven High School Model UN travels to Hopkins High School for a Model UN Conference. The team debated against other teams. Junior Danielle Dixon won an award for best speaker.
From left to right: Elaina Solimene, Tyda Kin, Fatima Butt, Grace O'Brien, Valerie Adams, Diego Hoyos, Kayla Cherian, Zainab Alhooti, Nicholas Barry, Danielle Dixon
St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church Hosts their Annual Taste of Greece Festival
On May 3rd and 4th, St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church premiered their annual Taste of Greece festival. The festival featured a variety of Greek food from gyros to baklava. Theo Kattis, Sofia Kanakis, Sophiea Runlett, Koula Diakogeorgiou, and Olivia Palmeri North Haven's own students attended and volunteered at the festival.
The church serves their delicious koulourakia
Left to Right: Theo Kattis and Andreas Kambas
First Priority Focuses on Giving Back To Community Members in Need
First Priority Focuses on Giving Back To Community Members in Need
On February 22, 2025, First Priority, a NHHS club guided by advisor Mr. David Jacob, went down to the 180 Center, a shelter in New Haven, to give out food to the homeless. Earlier in the year, First Priority raised funds by selling hot chocolate and cookies during lunch waves. The proceeds of this fundraiser were used to purchase sandwiches from Tastebuds Deli. Tastebuds also generously donated sandwiches, and members of First Priority were able to distribute lunch to the less fortunate in New Haven. This is a wonderful example of the school community working together to make an impact on the community. Special thanks to Sal Rizzo and Jim Curr for their assistance with the fundraiser and Tastebuds deli for their generous donations of sandwiches, and the entire school community for their donations.
Left to Right: Aaron Dean, Kayla Cherian and Hannah Dean help distribute food.
Community members enjoy the events organized by First Priority.
NHHS Celebrates the Preschool Graduation
Photos by Mason Lambert
Unified Sports Marks the End of a Successful Year With an Ice Cream Social
From top to bottom: Jake Dobos, Ronan Holt, Richard Ngo, Matthew Lengvinis, Jenna Sagnella, Maddison Lipinski, Cooper Montanari
These students won awards and received their actual awards at the Sports Banquet.
Members of Best Buddies play games of corn hole
Members gather and watch others play corn hole
Mrs. Beth O'Keefe's AP Government Class Enjoys Annual "Pancake Breakfast" Tradition
From left to right: Mrs. Elizabeth O'Keefe, Matthew DeNardis, Ella Ray, Clare Cullagh, Amalia Morizio, Andrew Bautz, Logan Ohanyan, Jack Notaro, Nick Romano
Mrs. O'Keefe concludes the year with an annual pancake breakfast for her AP Government students. She says, "This tradition started 10 years ago. I wanted to give the AP Gov kids a treat after working so hard all year. We started with pancake breakfasts and they just caught on over the years."
History Teacher Federico Fiondella Invites Veterans to Present Students With an "Eyewitness to History"
Long-standing tradition continues with meaningful and memorable learning through firsthand stories
World Language Honor Societies Acknowledge Students at Induction Ceremony
French Honor Society table holding the certificated of the inductees
French Honor Society members gather for a photo
Cords for Chinese, Italian, Latin, and Spanish Honor Societies for senior members
Spanish Honor Society students are inducted as members of the organization.
Latin Honor Society members gather for a photo following a candlelit ceremony.
Members of the World Language Department worked hard to organize an impressive event for all to enjoy.
STEAM Honor Societies Acknowledge Students at Induction Ceremony
National Art Honor Society Inductees read their initiating charge.
Mu Alpha Theta inductees receive their certificates. (For Excellence in Math) Seniors received cords.
National Art Honor Society students help with refreshments at the induction ceremony.
Science National Honor Society seniors receive their cords.
NH Art honor society seniors received multi-colored tassels representing the colors of the spectrum that they will wear on graduation caps.
Left to right: Isabel Sharma, Alison Palmieri, Logan Ohanyan, Antonia Novicki receive cords for excellence in Science from advisors, Mrs. Juliet Nichols and Dr. Lisa Ball-Goodrich.
Recovered Drug/Alcohol Addicts Warn NHHS of the Dangers of Substance Abuse and Impacts on Life
Pinning Ceremony Honors Students who Completed their CNA Training
Isabella Crouch poses alongside her family with her certificate
CNA students attend the ceremony to recognize their hard work
Nora Murdzek and her family gather for a photo
Lily Schupp and her mother celebrate her accomplishment on a very special day.
Ava Prefontaine and her mother pose for a photo. Ava's Aunt is a nurse who has inspired her.
Emma Minnix poses with her pin and certificate alongside her mom who is proud of her success in the program.
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