Crafting the November Superintendent Update is always one of my favorite pieces of communication. There is so much to be thankful for in our community. Thank you staff of Lebanon Public Schools for your endless efforts to grow learners, cultivate leaders and create legacies in our schools. Thank you students, for being the reason we love coming to work! You are an inspiration and source of pride for all of us in Lebanon. Keep working hard and striving for excellence in all you do. Thank you parents and community members for your active participation and ongoing support. I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and hope you find time to rest, relax and enjoy the company of those that mean the most to you during this holiday season.

Earlier this month our schools were filled with parents and guardians of our students. It was a great turnout and an opportunity we look forward to in showcasing the work and progress of our learners. Thanks to all of you who attended the parent-teacher conferences, and please know that while we only have a few formal opportunities for conferences, you are always welcome and we encourage you to inquire about the progress of your student at any time.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude.”- Harry S. Truman

Thank you to all who have served for our country. We appreciate your efforts and sacrifice.

The week of November 7-11 we celebrated our School Psychologists for the support and service they provide to our schools. On December 2nd we will celebrate Special Education Day and on December 9th we will join the PJ Day for CCMC.

We are in the early stages of building our 2023-2024 Lebanon Public Schools Budget. This process is a total team effort and takes a considerable amount of time and careful attention.

An important part of the process is seeking stakeholder feedback. To that end, we will be holding Budget Input Sessions. Please see the flyer below for information regarding the first of these such meetings.

Dear Lebanon Families,

In August, Lebanon Public Schools received funding to help continue free meals for students for a portion of this year. As a reminder, SMART funds require participating School Food Authorities to provide free breakfast and/or lunch meals to all students in schools that are approved to participate in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program in School Year 2022-23. As a requirement of the funding, our school district must notify families 30 days prior to these funds running out. This serves as a notification that the SMART funds will continue to cover our district meals until Nov 30th.

Fortunately this does not mean we move right back to paid lunches.

Lebanon Public Schools has decided to utilize our school lunch fund surplus to help continue free meals for the students. As of today, we are uncertain how long the surplus can sustain covering meal costs. Our plan is to address the situation each month and keep families notified of changes. Similar to the required SMART funds timeline , we will notify families 30 days before meals will be expected to be paid.

Please continue to watch for communications about our School Lunch Program as the year progresses.

Parents/guardians are also encouraged to continue to fill out eligibility applications, as the requirements for free and reduced meals have changed recently.

2022-23 Application for Free and Reduced-price School Meals or Free Milk

Best,

Andy

Please click below to see the presentation recently shared with our Board of Education.

From the Curriculum Office, Rita Quiles-Glover, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

I recently attended a workshop sponsored by Sacred Heart University and educational organizations across the state called “Redesigning Education.” During this workshop, a panel of Connecticut’s business leaders from cutting edge companies shared their perspectives of what is needed to help our students succeed in the world. Along with content understanding, regardless of the career path, there are several key “soft skills” considered critical to a successful role in the workforce:

• Personable Skills (positive/kind outlook)

• Adaptability/flexibility (meeting where people are)

• Dedication to Success Personally and Professionally

• Problem Solving

• Confidence (working beyond failure)

• Accountability

• Curiosity/Life Long Learner (wanting to learn more)

• Communication Skills

In classrooms here at Lebanon, teachers plan and implement instruction with these skills in mind. For example, during math, students are asked questions in which the answer requires “outside of the box” thinking and collaborative discussions. Through morning meetings, connections or PAWs time students engage in discussions focused on skills such as growth mindset or self regulation. During social studies classes, students may have to present and in the science classrooms, students are encouraged to use investigation as a means to master scientific processes. Our Portrait of the Graduate beliefs embedded district-wide also reflect and support these characteristics. Despite the many different demands in education, we continue to put this in the forefront of our role in helping to foster student growth and with your partnership to help students become active, contributing citizens in our society.

From Dawn DeLia, Director of Pupil Services

Please join members of the special education team for breakfast and conversation at your child’s school. This will be an informal meeting for you to meet available staff members and other parents. Copies of the new IEP manual and the CT-SEDS Portal Quick Start Guide will be available.

Lebanon Elementary School: Thursday, November 17, 2022 at 8:30 am

Lebanon Middle School: Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 8 am

Lyman Memorial High School: Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at 7:30

If you have any questions, email: dawn.delia@lebanonct.org

Lebanon Public Schools actively seeks to assist children and families by locating, identifying, and referring children from birth to age 21 who require special education and related services. If you are concerned about a child's development, you are encouraged to contact Lebanon Elementary School to receive information about Early Childhood Screenings.If the child is younger than 3 years of age, you may choose instead to contact the Connecticut Birth to Three System at 1-800-505-7000.

If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact 860-642-5636.

Click "buttons" throughout update to view articles & important documents

Families, please feel free to send photos of our students in action so that I can celebrate them in the Superintendent Updates. Thanks for helping share our Lebanon Pride! andrew.gonzalez@lebanonct.org

The fall drama presentation was spectacular! The students did not allow some internal obstacles and a rescheduling of the original show date to distract them from putting on a great performance. I am proud of their focus, determination, perseverance and in awe of their talents!

Please see a special shout out from Diane Ayer:

Who are these amazing thespians? The assistant director is Tristan Laskarzewski; his assistant is Amelia Wentworth. The cast: Aidan Laws as Rogers; Taylor DeLorge as Mrs. Rogers; Mackenzie Morrison as Fred Narracott; Isabella DesLauriers as Vera Claythorne; Keegan Tardif as Philip Lombard; Nina Fusco as Anthony Marston; Anthony Williams as William Blore; Nora Rodgers as General Mackenzie; Hannah Gonzalez as Emily Brent; Aubrey Theriault as Dame Lauren Wargrave; and Caroline Nettleton as Dr. Armstrong. The crew: Katelyn Macht (lights), Madi Olbrias (sounds), Benny Augur, Lillian Scholan, Nora Erismann, Sophia Palombizio, Allie Mertz, and Jackson Dodge.

Our Lebanon Middle School Cross Country teams finished 4th (girls) and 6th (boys) respectively at the state meet. We also had 2 top ten finishers and 2 top fifty finishers. Way to go LMS!

This past Friday, Isaac Cone, Nate Cone, Chris Sarnik and Amelia Withington competed in the Livestock CDE at UConn. Last night we found out the team placed 2nd in the state. Amelia placed first in the state individually, Chris 5th and Nate 10th.

In this month's Superintendent Update we proudly recognize and appreciate Officer Slonski.

Officer Slonski started his career working seasonally for DEP when he was a college student. He joined the Connecticut State Police in November of 1989. After 30 years of dedicated service he retired from the State Police and immediately joined Lebanon Public Schools as our School Resource Officer.

Officer Slonski has stated that this position has been refreshing and positive. He enjoys interacting with staff and students daily. He is most proud of the connections and lasting relationships he has fostered and maintained with Lebanon learners. He has countless examples of times when he has run into Lebanon graduates, who are now young adults in town, and he is happy to share the stories of success that they report to him. The position of School Resource Officer is especially satisfying to him because he works in the town in which he resides. He feels he is making a significant impact on the lives of our students and in doing so giving back to the community.

Earlier this month Lyman's School Improvement Committee, which is made up of teachers, support staff, students and administration, wanted to show Lyman's Appreciation to Officer Slonski. He is an excellent addition to our school community and does so many things including, meeting/counseling students, running a Law Enforcement x-block, and assisting with building needs. Each PAWS group along with other faculty and staff wrote Officer Slonski Thank you cards. They were posted up around his office for him to find upon his arrival.

Thank you so much for all you do Officer Slonski!

This poem created by our 7th grade team was used in the Daily Dose of Love shared globally by the Choose Love program. Our staff has embraced and worked hard to implement this new Social Emotional program to provide support for our learners across the district.

Choosing Love

When choosing love, you fill the room.

And every smile fills your heart.

Yes I will choose to love you too,

Even when our paths depart.

I see your gracious, courageous soul,

Even when your spirits low.

And I will share this room with you,

And you are always in my heart.

By: Jordan Comeau (with help from Aaron Gilberto, Andrew Schultheis, Caitlin Clark, and Natalia Korzhoff)

Grade 7 Teachers, Lebanon School District, Lebanon, CT

We are so grateful for our Choose Love educators and schools that are part of the solution to create a safer, peaceful and more loving world!

We have had an exciting couple of weeks with our sports programs.

Congrats to Coach Morello and the Lyman Memorial High School Girls Soccer team for capturing the ECC Championship and making a historic first trip to the Girls Soccer State Finals!

Congrats to Coach Vigue and the Lyman Memorial Volleyball team for winning the ECC Championship!

Our Lebanon U-10 comp soccer team took home first place at a statewide soccer tournament in Colchester. They won all 4 games and didn’t let a single goal get scored on them. The future is bright for our soccer program! #LebanonPride #CreatingLegacies

Retired LMS teacher Pat Rubega recently connected with her former students by sending letters they had written while in they were in middle school. The students, who are now seniors, had written letters to their future self giving advice on how to be successful students. This is a great example of the type of close knit community we have and the lasting relationships our teachers have with our learners!

I am truly grateful for the years of dedicated service that Mr. Laskarzewski has given to the district while serving as the Lebanon Middle School Principal. He will be retiring at the end of this school year after nearly two decades of providing leadership and guidance to our middle school staff and students. He announced his retirement well in advance of his last day so that we can begin the search for a new Principal. I have included an invitation to apply (below) that includes important dates.

Sabena Escott, MSW sabena.escott@lebanonct.org

Lyman Memorial High School Social Worker and District Family Care Coordinator

With recent legislation over the summer, a family care coordinator has been added to the growing number of mental health staff that CT recognizes will further support our children and families in the school setting. The family care coordinator role already encompasses what our Lebanon school district mental health teams provide for students and families. Providing students with access to mental health resources within the community and bringing mental health services to students inside of the school has always been a priority in our district. Please reach out if there are any specific mental health topics, community programs, therapeutic referrals or town programs and resources that you would like to know more about. Below are a few programs and resources for students and families.

Town of Lebanon Social Services

Contact: Shelly Ashcom

Winter Coats, Holiday Meals and gifts & Support with Fuel (for those who qualify)

• The Lebanon Social Services Office offers a variety of services to Lebanon children, adults, and seniors. Social Services Administrator Shelly Ashcom works with federal, state, and local organizations to provide assistance to Lebanon residents in need.

• Assistance with SNAP, (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) & WIC

• State general assistance programs

• Assistance with Husky Insurance for uninsured children and adults

• Intake office for CT Energy Assistance Program

• Referral and assistance with Eversource and Bozrah Light & Power plans

• Food assistance and Intake office for Town Food Pantry

Lebanon Clothing Children’s Wardrobe (LCCW) LCCW on Facebook

Contact: Rosemarie Bessette

Everyone 2+ must wear masks while picking up or donating items/attending events.

IF YOU ARE *REQUESTING CLOTHES OR ITEMS, please include your full name, phone number, town, due date (if applicable) or age/gender of child (size only if requesting clothes), and screenshots of requested items. *Requests without all required information will not be filled.

We ask that you embrace our “swap” philosophy and return items when your child has outgrown them.Our clothes/items are always free, but if you’re able, we accept monetary donations of cash, Venmo or check (payable to LCCW).We also have an Amazon wishlist of frequently used office supplies https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3TP7F1IMPHYL0?ref_=wl_share

Contact Rachel@CT-ASRC.org for more information.

Ages 12 and Under

*Adaptive Dance/Movement Classes Saturdays 11/12, 11/19, 12/3 & 12/10

*Santa Train 11/27 *Letters To Santa 12/4 *Art Club 12/11

Teen to Adult Francesca@CT-ASRC.org

Sunday's - ANIME CLUB VIRTUAL Tuesday's- Kerry's Kitchen

Wednesday's - Lego Virtual Club or Exercise Club

Truths Every Autism Parent Needs to Know FREE November 17th at 6pm: Join The Autism Mom Coach, Lisa Candera as she shares truths surrounding raising a child with Autism, no matter the level, age or age of diagnosis.

THE BUSHNELL

Ballet Theater Company presents a SENSORY-FRIENDLY Performance of THE NUTCRACKER AT THE BUSHNELL 11.27.22 @11am Sensory-friendly performances are designed to create a performing arts experience that is welcoming to all families and friends with children or adults on the autism spectrum or with other sensitivity issues.

Purchase tickets to the 11:00am Sensory-Friendly performance - use code SENSORY.

FREE EXPERIENCE AT THE BUSHNELL

Cuatro Bailes (Four Dances) is a new, immersive digital installation exploring Hartford artist Pedro Bermudez’s connection to place and culture through movement and celebrating the Puerto Rican community

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day took place on Saturday, November 19, 2022. It was an opportunity for those who have lost loved ones to suicide to find comfort in a community of people who understand. Events were offered both in-person and virtually. Find an Event

RESOURCES

In Connecticut, Mobile Crisis Intervention: crisis/suicide hotline for children and youth 211/988

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK / 1-800-273-8255

Dial 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 (crisis intervention & suicide prevention for LGBTQ young people 13-24)

ACTION line (DMHAS) For adults in distress 1-800-HOPE-135 or 2-1-1

Emergency 9-1-1 Crisis text line: Text to CT at 741741

State of Connecticut Suicide Prevention website: www.preventsuicidect.org

Southeastern Regional Action Council (SERAC) unites the communities of Eastern CT, to reduce the impact of substance abuse, problem gambling and mental health challenges.

You Think You Know This is a new public awareness campaign targeting teens, young adults and caregivers to educate them about the dangers of counterfeit prescription drugs.

SERAC’s Weeding Out the Truth campaign was created to help adolescents and their parents get the facts about alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use. Visit this page to test your knowledge about youth substance abuse in our region, learn about social norms,.

SERAC’s 21 For A Reason campaign explores the reasons why 21 is the legal minimum age for drinking alcohol, purchasing tobacco products, and casino gambling in Connecticut. Visit the site to learn the facts behind the laws, find local resources, and get tips for how parents, merchants, and other community members can help prevent youth substance abuse.

Deconstructing Stigma, a photo and story exhibit, will be at Bradley International Airport from October 2022 through March 2023. The campaign features individuals who are fighting the stigma around conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety through sharing their stories.

Exhibit at Bradley Deconstructing Stigma: Changing Attitudes About Mental Health

Resources to Help Children Thrive

Topics include: Therapy for Depressed Teens, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Teens, Depression and Anger, Mood Disorders and Teenage Girls, How Anxiety Affects Teenagers and much more!

The campaign aims to advance access to programs and services that build young people’s essential life skills as part of primary prevention and wellness promotion in a full continuum of support. cfchildren.org

To register: seracct.org

Lebanon Social Services Office offers a variety of services to Lebanon children, adults, and seniors. Social Services Administrator Shelly Ashcom works with federal, state, and local organizations to provide assistance to Lebanon residents in need. Town of Lebanon Social Services

*The use of the resources/programs in this section are not required by LPS to be used by parents/guardians. They are recommendations only.*

Regular attendance is vital for student success. When students attend regularly they the best chance to achieve academically and thrive. Every day a student is in school is an opportunity to learn, build relationships and access supports. We look forward to partnering with you to make sure our learners are present and prepared to grow each day. We understand that students are more likely to attend school when they feel safe, connected and supported. We will continue to work hard to motivate students to attend by fostering a belief among students that they can achieve at high levels .

Research shows that when students are chronically absent- missing more than 10% of the school year, or 18 days over an entire year- they are less likely to read proficiently by 3rd grade, achieve in middle school and graduate from high school.

Please view by clicking button below

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Please remember you can see our COVID-19 data that is updated in real time at https://www.lebanonct.org/ There is a "button" on the main page that links directly to our dashboard.

COVID-19 medications are now available through your doctor, local pharmacies, and health clinics.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, do not wait to get treated.

You must take oral COVID-19 medication within 5 days of your first COVID-19 symptoms.

Use the tool below to find a location that is right for you.

https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/

The link below is for patients and legal guardians to access official immunization records for themselves and their children using the CT WiZ Public Portal.

https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Immunizations/CT-WiZ-Access-My-Immunization-Record

The Lebanon Public Schools, in partnership with families and the community, will prepare students to be contributing members of a diverse global society. We will provide a safe, nurturing, rigorous, and student-centered learning environment.

The school community of Lebanon is committed to the mission of honoring and celebrating the diversity of our students, our community, and our nation. We strive to guide our students to conscious, deliberate, individual and collective actions that cultivate the respect of all races, religions, and social backgrounds. Our school community endeavors to produce graduates who are equipped with a greater understanding of the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Lebanon Board of Education, in compliance with federal and state law, affirms its policy of equal educational opportunity for all students and equal employment opportunity for all persons. It is the policy of the District to promote nondiscrimination and an environment free of harassment and the District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, alienage, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other category protected under state or federal law in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its program or activities. The District also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups and is specifically required by Title IX not to discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs and activities. The District shall make reasonable accommodations for individuals with identified physical and mental impairments that constitute disabilities, consistent with federal and state statutes and regulations.

The following person has been designated to handle inquires regarding Title IX sex discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, Title IX Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding other non-discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, 504/ADA Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764