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Newington Public Schools

Every student will be a contributing member of their community and highly prepared for life after graduation.

Principal's Updates 12/21/2025

Posted Date: 12/21/25 (09:00 AM)
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Principal's Updates

Ruth L. Chaffee

Chaffee Cardinal Mascot

Around the School:

Winter CHORUS Concert

Our Winter Chorus Concert was a wonderful celebration of music and student talent. Under the guidance of our music teacher, Mr. Balling, students beamed as they sang with confidence. Mr. Balling does an excellent job highlighting each student’s talents and creating meaningful opportunities for students to perform. The pride and joy on our students’ faces made this concert a special event, and we thank them and Mr. Balling for their hard work. 
A diverse group of children in festive attire, many wearing Santa hats, stand on risers on a stage for a performance.
A group of children, some wearing festive hats, stand on a stage.

Science in Motion Enrichment Program:

Students enjoyed a fun and engaging experience all about bubbles! They learned that bubbles can be more than just round—they can take on different shapes, be gently juggled, and even allow you to carefully put your hand through them without popping. This hands-on experience sparked curiosity, wonder, and lots of excitement as students explored the science behind bubbles in an interactive and memorable way. Thank you to our PTA for sponsoring this CT Science Center program.
A collage of images showing a "Science in Motion" event sponsored by the PTA, featuring presenters and students.

Grade 1 In School Field Trip

Our first graders recently enjoyed an exciting in-school field trip provided by the Connecticut Children’s Museum. Through hands-on activities, students explored sound and learned how it is created by vibrations. They experimented with different materials and even designed and made their own musical instruments. This engaging experience brought science and creativity together and gave students a deeper understanding of how sound works in the world around them.
Children and a teacher gather around a large wooden table in a classroom, working on art projects with colorful straws.

An Important Message from our Nurse

Parents, The flu seems to be winding down a bit here at Ruth Chaffee. However, the stomach bug is now starting to show up.  If your child vomits or has diarrhea, please keep your child home for 24 hours after the last episode. The district policy is:
  • Vomiting: May return 24 hours after vomiting has ceased without any dietary restriction.
  • Diarrhea: May return 24 hours after last loose bowel movement without any dietary restriction.
  • Fever: May return when temperature remains under 100.0° for 24 hours WITHOUT the use of medication such as Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc.
Thank you for abiding by these guidelines. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, Caryn

Spirit Days

Before we leave school for our Winter vacation, let's go out in style with some spirit days! 
On Monday 12/22, let's welcome the winter season by wearing blue and white.
On Tuesday 12/23, let's come to school cozy. Don't forget that it's our sing along, too! Remember, no hats or masks and you must wear pajamas that can accommodate regular shoes. 
Image announcing "Spirit Days" before winter vacation, featuring "Cozy Day" and "Welcome Winter" themes.

Important Links

Breakfast/Lunch Menus

Reminders:

Poster announcing the Harlem Wizards vs. Wallace Alley-Hoopers basketball game on March 17, 2026, at Newington High School Gym.
Newington Area Food Resources

Early Childhood Screening

Click here for more information regarding opportunities for your child to attend an early childhood screening at our school! Participation will allow the staff to observe your child’s speech and language, motor, social, and cognitive skills.

Ruth Chaffee Pet Wall

The Pet Wall is growing! Students and staff alike are enjoying all of the pet and stuffed animal photos! If you would like to submit your pet(s) use this link Ruth Chaffee Pet Wall Submission Form.
Calendar

Important Dates

Mon. Dec. 22nd - Spirit Day- Winter Day - Wear Blue & White 
Tues. Dec. 23rd- Spirit Day- Cozy Day - Wear your PJ’s or Cozy clothes
Wed. Dec. 24 - Fri. Jan. 2nd Winter Break - No School/Office Closed
Mon. Jan. 5th - PTA Mtg. @ 6:30p.m. in Media Center
Tues. Jan. 6th - Three Kings Day - No School/ Office Open
 
Student Handbook
School Year Calendar
Attendance Policy
Report Challening Behavior Here
 
Desk with keyboard, glasses, and note pad

Questions or concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links:

  • 860-666-4687
  • jmarciano@npsct.org