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08/23/2022 02:00 PM

Westbrook Heads Back To School Sept. 1


Unfortunately, kids, it’s that time of year again. School is getting ready to start in Westbrook and the Harbor News has the information on what to expect.

Just like Harry Potter always boarded the Hogwarts Express on Thursday, Sept. 1 every year, Westbrook students will also return to the classroom on the same date. Meanwhile, teachers will return a few days earlier on Monday, Aug. 29.

“We look forward to the new school year with great excitement and cannot wait to see our students, families, and staff back in our schools in a few short weeks,” Westbrook Superintendent Dr. Kristina Martineau said.

Martineau also highlighted the changes that are coming to the school for this upcoming school year.

“At the high school this year, we are excited to open a new robotics and STEM lab and to pilot a third robotics course for student interested in STEM fields as a potential career pathway,” said Martineau.

“At our elementary school, Daisy Ingraham Elementary School, we are also in the process of creating a MakerSpace and STEM innovation and creativity center that all students and teachers will have access to during the school year to integrate engaging, fun, and creative STEM activities. We look forward to a grand opening of both innovation and learning spaces later in the fall,” she continued.

This year, several towns around the state have had trouble finding enough bus drivers to adequately provide transportation service. However, Martineau said, that isn’t a problem in Westbrook right now.

“We have not made any changes to transportation and do not hire drivers directly, but encourage individuals interested in becoming a bus driver to contact M and J Transportation — we are always in need of drivers and substitute drivers,” Martineau said.

A notable part of the last two school years was the measures put in place to fight COVID-19. This year, school officials are hoping for a more normal year but will actively monitor community spread of the virus.

Asked what measures are in place this year Martineau said, “We will continue to follow the most updated CDC and CT DPH guidance in terms of COVID protocols. We will also continue to work closely with Zachary Faiella, the Westbrook Health Department director. We will continue to have test kits and masks available to those who need them as long as supplies last. Masks are recommended at times but not required.”

Asked about cohorting, the practice of keeping students in selected groups throughout the day to make contact tracing easier and something that had been done in the past, Martineau said “In the spring, we also began to transition from cohorting at the elementary level to less cohorting during the day. By nature of how classrooms are structured at the elementary school, there is some cohorting by grade and classroom still in place, but overall, we are transitioning to a more normal schedule and activity model in our schools. If community and school transmission of COVID-19 increases, we will be responsive to any increases and make adjustments as needed and under the guidance of our local public health department and district medical advisor.”

For more information, visit westbrookctschools.org.