3-25-2023

Dear Rippowam families,

Thanks to all the families who have already completed the School Climate Survey!  We have 13% of our parent population who have completed the survey.  But we want more!  Please see links below and in previous emails sent.  We have been working hard this year trying to build a stronger school climate and positive relationships with our young people and families.  Please give us feedback so we can continue to grow and strengthen Rippowam.

Please complete our Parent Survey - your voice is important to us!
Please complete our annual School Climate Survey for families.  The survey will be available in English, Spanish, Haitian-Creole, and Ukrainian.   Click here for more information.

Congratulations to Rippowam Students in the Western Middle School Music Festival!
Alex Polleta, Sahasra Kadapa, and Peter Donahue recently participated in the Western Region Middle School Music Festival, a festival that hosts some of the best middle school musicians in Fairfield County to perform together in one weekend. The festival, located at Wilton High School in Wilton CT, hosted Band, Chorus, Jazz Band, and String Orchestra, with each ensemble conducted by a prominent music educator in the region. More information about the festival can be found here https://cmea.org/student-events/western-region/western-region-middle-school/

Parent Meeting with the Rowan Center on Monday, 3/27 from 6-8 in auditorium
Sarah Malhotra, Director of Education and Training at the Rowan Center, will be leading a presentation for parents on sex trafficking and sexual violence and its implications on our youth -  specifically our students at Rippowam.  She will also be reviewing a 3-part workshop designed for middle school students at Rippowam on prevention education that covers topics like physical and emotional boundaries, defining sexual harassment, exploring safe and unsafe behavior and how to report should they ever experience or witness this.  Please come and participate in this important presentation.  We will also have a Spanish speaking presenter as well. 

“Say Something” training for all students on Monday, 3/27
Middle school students in Stamford will be engaging in a virtual training offered by the Sandy Hook Promise called “Say Something.”  Say Something empowers students, in grades 6-12, to grow a community of upstanders that looks out for the safety of their communities.  Please see this parent brochure attached for more information.

Wednesday, March 29th is an early release day; Spring break is coming!
Students will be released at 11:45am.  School is closed for spring break Monday, April 3rd - Friday, April 7th.  Students return to school for a regular day on Monday, April 10th.

Summer school lists recommendations are available
Families have received notification if their child was recommended for summer school.  You have until 5/5 to confirm your child’s participation in PowerSchool.  If you have any questions about summer school, you can reach out to your child’s school counselor or call the main office.

Best,

Kristina Colmenares
 

If you didn’t see the Superintendent’s weekly message, please click HERE.