As we head into the final stretch of the school year, I want to celebrate the incredible focus and dedication our students and staff put forward throughout May. From exams and final projects to spring performances and athletic events, our schools have been filled with an inspiring level of energy. Thank you to our educators for keeping students engaged, and kudos to our students for giving their best every day.
We have four weeks remaining, and these final days are crucial for solidifying the growth made this year. Let’s work together to finish proud by maintaining consistent attendance, staying focused on final assignments, and supporting one another through the finish line.
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to our district. Let’s make these last four weeks the best ones yet!
In partnership,
Adam Swinney, Interim Superintendent
District Highlights
Sixth Grade Aviation Explorers Experience the Power of Flight
Sixth grade students had a unique opportunity to take learning to a whole new level through the Aviation Explorers program at Tweed Airport. During the experience, students participated in preflight checks, learned about aircraft operations, and even had the chance to help guide a Piper aircraft alongside a certified flight instructor during a short flight over East Haven.
The program, developed in partnership with Avelo Airlines, is designed to spark student interest in the many career pathways within the aviation industry, including piloting, engineering, and aircraft maintenance. School leaders and industry partners have emphasized the importance of introducing students to these opportunities at a young age, especially as the aviation field continues to grow and face increasing workforce demands. This first-of-its-kind partnership continues to provide students with memorable, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and career exploration.
Don't Miss the 2026 EHPS District Art Show
You are cordially invited toEast Haven Night of the Arts on Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 6-8 p.m. at East Haven High School. Come out and enjoy student art from all schools across the district under one roof!
EHHS Ceramics Students Gear Up for the District Art Show
Students in Ceramics 1 classes recently had the opportunity to take their creativity outside the classroom during a visit to the district greenhouse at the high school. Surrounded by the beautiful plants and scenery, students practiced observational sculpting and created impressive ceramic pieces inspired by what they saw around them.
Students are eager to proudly showcase their talents at the upcoming District Art Show on May 28th from 6-8 p.m. We invite the community to join us that evening at East Haven High School. This special evening will celebrate the incredible work our students across all buildings have created throughout the year. In addition to a wide variety of artwork on display, ceramics students will be sculpting live during the event!
We look forward to welcoming families, staff, and community members for an evening that highlights the creativity and dedication of our student artists. Thank you for your continued support of the arts in our schools.
SCASA Superintendent - Student Award Recognition Program
The South Central Area Superintendents’ Association (SCASA) Student Recognition and Luncheon Ceremony is a truly special celebration that shines a spotlight on students whose impact reaches beyond the classroom. This unique regional program provides superintendents with the opportunity to recognize students for their leadership, community service, academic achievement, and meaningful contributions to their schools and communities.
Each participating school district carefully selects students who embody the values of compassion, leadership, and dedication, creating an inspiring celebration of student success across the region. Surrounded by family members, school leaders, and fellow honorees, students are recognized during a luncheon ceremony that highlights not only their accomplishments, but also the positive difference they make in the lives of others every day.
This spring, East Haven Public Schools proudly honored the following students with the SCASA Student Recognition Award:
Logan Whitcher, Momauguin Elementary, Grade 5
Gabriella Giardina, East Haven Academy Grade 8
Fabiana Ruggiero, East Haven High School, Grade 12
Recognizing Our Outstanding Educators and Support Staff
Each year, our school district takes great pride in recognizing the extraordinary individuals who make a lasting impact on our students, schools, and community through the Teacher of the Year and Paraeducator of the Year awards. Nominated by colleagues, these honors celebrate excellence in education, dedication to student success, and the meaningful relationships that educators build every day within our schools.
The Teacher of the Year and Paraeducator of the Year programs serve as a reminder that excellence exists throughout every school and department across our district. From inspiring classroom instruction to individualized student support, the work of our educators and paraeducators shapes the experiences and futures of our students in countless ways.
Teacher of the Year: Samantha Lestage
Paraeducators of the Year: Stephanie Hribko & Trina Izaguirre
We extend our heartfelt congratulations not only to this year’s winners, but to every nominee whose dedication and service continue to strengthen our school community. We are grateful for the passion, care, and commitment each of you brings to East Haven Public Schools every day.
2026 Teacher of the Year Nominees
Michael Cole, JMMS
Scott Esposito, Momauguin
Gianna Fazzino, EHA
Jared Fernandez, EHHS
Krysta Gargamelli, Deer Run
Mike Gilson, EHA
Stephanie Gingras, EHA
Allison Ignatius, JMMS
Kerry Lucas, Deer Run
Haley Lutar, EHHS
Danielle Picagli, EHHS
Laura Rey, JMMS
Kristine Schmidt, JMMS
2026 Paraeducator of the Year Nominees
David Bennett, EHA
Melissa Milano, Momauguin
Zachary Klink, Deer Run
Athletic Spotlight
Libby Madonna: Balancing Two Sports, One Goal
For this student-athlete, sports have been a part of life from an early age and dedication has been the key to success ever since. Libby began playing basketball at just 4 years old, building a strong foundation in competition, teamwork, and discipline. Years later, she added volleyball to her athletic journey, starting in 7th grade. Her passion and leadership quickly stood out, earning her the role of team captain in 8th grade, despite being newer to the sport. Now entering her senior year, Libby is excited for the opportunity to continue leading and competing as captain again.
Being a dual sport athlete brings unique challenges. Balancing practices, games, training schedules, and expectations across two sports requires constant effort and flexibility. Managing physical demands while staying mentally focused can be difficult, especially when schedules overlap and priorities have to shift. Staying open with coaches about commitments allows for realistic planning and sustainable growth in both sports. Just as important has been maintaining strong support from family and friends, who help keep motivation high throughout the year.
Over time, Libby developed strong time management skills and learned that preparation and discipline make all the difference. While competing in volleyball and basketball isn’t always easy, she embraces the challenge and enjoys the opportunity to grow as both an athlete and a leader.
Family Engagement
Vision of the Graduate "Unpack Your Day" Weekly Prompt
"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 5/25: How did you listen to someone else’s idea today?
Week of 6/1: How did solving a problem make you feel proud?
Gearing Up for 6th Grade!
At Momauguin, belonging doesn’t end in 5th grade; it grows beyond it!
This spring, Momauguin piloted Gearing Up for 6th Grade, a student voice-centered transition experience designed to help current 5th graders feel more connected and confident as they prepare for middle school. What made the event especially meaningful was the opportunity for former Momauguin students to return and share their real middle school experiences, answer questions, and support younger students through this important transition.
More than a transition event, Gearing Up for 6th Grade became a bridge between past and present students, showing younger students what’s possible while giving older students the chance to return to a place that still feels like home.
The impact of this work reached beyond Momauguin when Jordan Gamble (7th) & his mom, Caroline Pietrosimone (6th) & her mom, and Logan Whitcher (5th) & his step-mom joined Mrs. Rivellini and Mrs. Topp in Mystic to present the pilot to districts from across Connecticut, highlighting how schools can elevate student voice and strengthen connection through meaningful transition experiences!
Kickstart to Kindergarten!
As part of the district’s Kickstart to Kindergarten transition series, one kindergarten teacher from each elementary school visited Pre-K students at Overbrook to help create early connections and excitement for the journey ahead. Students participated in a shared read aloud, completed an activity, and watched a special video featuring current kindergarten students sharing their favorite things about kindergarten along with advice for incoming students.
What made the experience especially meaningful was the collaboration happening behind the scenes as well. Pre-K and kindergarten teachers from across the district came together to discuss each student and how to best support them through the transition into elementary school.
In the evening, families gathered for an experience centered on information sharing, community building, and exploration of kindergarten through both the curriculum and the voices of current kindergartners. Families had the opportunity to learn what kindergarten truly looks and feels like while hearing directly from students about the joy, growth, and experiences that make the year so special.
More than a transition event, Kickstart to Kindergarten reflects a shared commitment to helping every child and family feel connected, welcomed, and supported before the first day of school even begins.
District Information & Resources
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!
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!
Fire & Crisis Drills
Per CT General Statute 10-231 schools will perform monthly fire and/or ALICE crisis response drills. Students will practice how to quickly exit the building or get to designated safety areas. During an actual emergency, both evacuation and safety are the first priorities.
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.
Let’s keep attendance strong until the last day!
East Haven Community Information & Resources
Community Event This Saturday! Let's Come Together to Help Our Neighbors with Stuff-A-Bus
The event is Saturday, May 30th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at East Haven Stop & Shop, 370 Hemingway Ave. Support the East Haven Food Pantry and Kindness 4 Kids. Many local families rely on the East Haven Food Pantry and Kindness 4 Kids. Your donation makes a big difference! Donate non-perishable food items and essentials. Support your neighbors in need. Together we can make a stronger, kinder community. Proudly hosted by Stop & Shop.
Hagaman Library's Youth Services Summer Schedule
Through continued partnership and collaboration, the Hagaman Library and the East Haven school community have created meaningful opportunities for children and families, and there is great excitement about what future partnerships will bring! As summer approaches, Hagaman Library is preparing for another engaging season of children and youth services programs, with a mostly finalized schedule that promises a variety of enriching activities for students throughout the community.
Click on this linkto view the Hagaman Library summer calendar. We hope you and your family take advantage of the many opportunities this summer join in on activities at the Hagaman Library.
Stay Alert: Phishing Attacks On The Rise
Our school district and community has recently seen an increase in phishing attempts targeting school staff, students, and community members. These scams often appear as emails, text messages, or social media posts from trusted sources with familiar names. Scams can appear to come from schools, banks, government agencies and religious organizations with the goal of stealing personal information or login credentials.
Please use caution when opening unexpected messages, clicking links, or downloading attachments. Be especially wary of messages that create urgency, ask for passwords or financial information, or direct you to unfamiliar websites.
Staying informed and vigilant is one of the best ways to protect yourself and our school community from cyber threats. Please click this link for helpful tips and reminders to avoid these scams. Together, we can keep our community safe. When in doubt - don't click, don't reply, and don't hesitate to ask for help.
The Family Resource Center is Hosting a Clothing Giveaway
Clothing Giveaway July 27-31 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Overbrook Early Learning Center, 54 Gerrish Ave., East Haven. Bring your own bag! Boys and girls gently used clothing and shoes, while supplies last. Call 203-468-3305 with any questions.
East Haven Arts Commission Offers Summer Productions for All Ages
MTI's Broadway Junior Revue of Pure Imagination is open to kids entering grade 4 through age 18.
WHEN: Auditions are June 5th 6:30-7:45 p.m. OR 7:45 p.m.-9:00 p.m. and June 7th 12:30-1:45 p.m. OR 1:45 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Hays School, 1 Maple Street, East Haven
HOW TO PREPARE: Kids should prepare one of the songs available on the website: easthavenarts.com. There will also be a dance audition.
Rehearsals will take place 2-3 days a week leading up to the final performances on
August 6th, 7th, and 8th.
Footloose the Musical is open to young adults entering grade 10 through age 25.
WHEN:Auditions are May 18th 6:30-8:30 p.m. OR 7:30-9:30 p.m. and May 22nd 6:30-8:30 p.m. OR 7:30-9:30 p.m.
(Potential callback on May 24th from 6:30-9:30PM)
WHERE: Hays School, 1 Maple Street, East Haven
HOW TO PREPARE: Everyone should prepare to sing a-capella approximately 30-60 seconds of a musical theater song of their choice. There will also be a dance audition and cold reading where auditioners are given a chance to read from the script.
The United Way of CT Offers the Circle of Security Workshop for Parents and Guardians
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 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.
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.
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:
Start Online: Families should begin by completing the initial registration forms through our online portal [CLICK HERE to Begin].
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.
Upcoming Community Dining Room Events
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.
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: 5/13 & 6/10
Time: 5 PM - 6 PM
Overbrook Early Learning Center, 54 Gerrish Ave.
Distribution Dates: 5/30 & 6/27
Time: 9 AM - 10 AM
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:
May 12 & 26
June 9 & 23
July 7 & 21
Summer Events with Soundview Family YMCA
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
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.
