Newington High School Principal's Newsletter
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Welcome to my first weekly newsletter of the 2026-2027 school year. I hope you and your family are enjoying a wonderful summer filled with time to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. While this has been a short summer, we have been hard at work preparing for another exciting school year and can't wait to welcome everyone back!!!
This year marks my 10th year as the Proud Principal of Newington High School, my 21st year at NHS and my 32nd year in education. It continues to be an incredible privilege to serve this amazing school community. On a personal note, I am also a proud mom of two wonderful daughters. My oldest will be beginning her fourth year at Drexel University in their Physician's Assistant Program, and my youngest will be entering her senior year here at NHS!!! I join all families in asking - where does the time go?
Our staff is ensuring everything is ready for the return of our entire Family of Learners. We are excited to begin another year of learning, growth, and connection together.
As we begin this new school year, my commitment remains the same: to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered to succeed. I truly love what I do and never take for granted the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated students, families, and staff. I look forward to celebrating the many accomplishments, memorable moments, and successes that lie ahead.
Beginning next week, I will once again send my weekly Friday newsletter (around 4:30 pm) to keep you informed about the exciting happenings across Newington High School. While each newsletter includes a variety of information, the sections are clearly organized so you can easily find the topics most relevant to you. I encourage you to look for it each week, and if you have news or accomplishments you'd like us to celebrate, please don't hesitate to share them!
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Schedules, school calendar, important links
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BELL SCHEDULES: Click HERE to view all our bell schedules.
DAY CALENDAR: Click HERE to view our NHS 2026-27 Day Calendar.
REPORT CARD SCHEDULE: Click HERE to view the Report Card Schedule for our 2026-2027 school year. Please note that snow days will impact this schedule.
ANNOUNCEMENT SLIDES: Click HERE to view our announcement slides. (updated daily)
CLUB DIRECTORY: Click HERE to view our club information. (get involved!!!)
ATHLETICS: Click HERE for the Fall Sports Schedule
First week's schedule:
Friday, August 28: Second day of school for students. Click for Modified schedule! C day ***ALL students are expected to be in their Advisory period by 7:34 am on these days***
Monday, August 31: A day
Tuesday, September 1: B day
Wednesday, September 2: O day
Thursday, September 3: E day
Friday, September 4: C day
***Bus Route information is not yet available, however, a parentsquare notification will be sent once ready. The Vacant Seat program will open for students living in a "Walking District" sometime toward end of October. More informaiton regarding this program will be coming out as the date approaches. Any questions please contact our transportation department at 860-666-2441.***
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August/September Important Dates |
8/7 - Access to PowerSchool by 10:00 am (school counselors will be available beginning August 27 for students with major scheduling errors only and August 28 for all other questions/concerns). Counselors will NOT be available during Advisory period the first two days of school.
8/19- New Student Orientation (8:15 am - 12:15 pm) *information was sent to families. Please email Mr. Harris at jharris@npsct.org with any questions. 8/27- 1st Day of School for all students. HERE is our schedule. All students are expected to be in their Advisory period by 7:34 am. 8/31 - Late Buses begin
9/7- Labor Day - Schools and Offices Closed
9/15 - Picture day for Underclassmen (retakes Oct 23)
9/15 - PL Day - 12:25 pm Dismissal
: Grade 12 Parent/Guardian Program 5:50 pm - 6:30 pm in the auditorium.
: College Funding Stratey Night (virtual) 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
9/17 - Themed Thursday * TBD
9/24 - SAVE THE DATE - Open House (more information to come)
9/29 - College Fair
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Opening & New Information |
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PowerSchool will be available to view schedules today, August 7 ! Please note that school counselors are not working this summer. Counselors will see students on August 27th for students with major scheduling errors only and on August 28th for all other questions/concerns. Our add/drop window is 5 days to add/drop any classes. Therefore, the last day to make changes will be Friday, September 4th.
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Advisory will now have a mix of all grade levels, similar to school families. Therefore, your advisory teacher more than likely has changed. A few changes may still happen, so please make sure to check your Advisory closer to the 1st day. All students are expected to report to their advisory room on the first day of school.
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S1 2026-27 lunches - click this LUNCH SCHEDULE to see your lunch wave. A, B, C, and O days will be period 5 class and E days will be your period 6 class. They may not be the same lunch waves.
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ID's - students will no longer be able to purchase endless amounts of IDs. Once a student reaches 3, parents/guardians will be notified of the $9 total balance. That balance will need to be paid in full prior to a student being allowed to charge for additional IDs. It is a student's responsibility to have their ID on them during school hours to access the bathroom, buy lunch, check out library books, etc.
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Emergency Contact Form- As a reminder every year Parents/Guardians are asked to log into Powerschool and complete the yearly update form.
- Please review and submit the form even if you have no changes to make so we can verify we have up to date information for each student.
- Submit the form by November 2, 2026.
- May be completed in either the website or the app.
- You must use your Parent/Guardian account, not your student's account.
- Form must be submitted once for each child even if you have no changes to make.
- Please take the time to fill out the form and list at least two Emergency contacts.
- Once the form is submitted, our school will approve the form.
- Steps: a) Log into PS and click Forms on the left. b) Click a form, change any information and submit it.
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Pass System - We will continue using a digital hall pass system, however, SmartPass has been replaced with Securly. Students will learn more about this in the opening days of school.
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Breakfast & Lunch Prices - Breakfast: is free for all students (one per day). Lunch is $3.75 for paid students, $0.40 for approved reduced students, and free for approved free students.
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Chromebooks - We want to ensure your child has the tools they need to succeed in school. Their school-issued Chromebook is a valuable learning resource, and we appreciate your help in keeping it in good condition.
To protect your child's Chromebook:
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Handle with care: Avoid placing heavy items on it and be cautious when carrying it.
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Use the case: Students are expected to always use the provided protective case.
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No stickers: Do not put stickers on the device. Permanent damage will void any warranty or insurance claim.
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Charge nightly: Ensure the Chromebook is fully charged for school each day.
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Repair Promptly: Have minor device damage repaired promptly to prevent further damage and potential costs beyond chromebook insurance coverage.
Upon graduation, seniors MUST return their chromebook, charger, AND case. Any item not returned will result in a charge on their account that must be paid for prior to graduation.
Purchasing Chromebook insurance is encouraged. This optional coverage costs $35 each year and offers the following benefits:
- An immediate replacement device for your student
- Reduced or waived costs for repairable accidental damage or theft
Thank you for your partnership in supporting your child's education!
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Link Crew tours for incoming freshmen and any new student will be held on August 24th from 9am-12pm. Students should enter by the flagpole entrance and can arrive anytime. No appointment needed. Parents/guardians are welcome.
Click here for Link Crew's newsletter. |
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Family of Learners Highlighted |
Congratulations to Daniel Bieszczad (12), who, after attending the 83rd annual American Legion Boys State program in June, was elected to the office of Attorney Gerenal of Boys State. Daniel was on of two high school junior students chosen to represent Connecticut at the Boys Nation program in Washingotn, D. C.
Daniel was commended for is very active participatiion and contribution to the Boys State program. NHS is proud to have someone serve in such a high honor.
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Extra-Curricular Activities and Athletics |
Fall Sports Registration
Students will need to have a valid physical dated after 7/10/2025 on file with the Nurse's Office and submit a registration fee of $115. Physicals can be brought to the Nurse's Office or mailed in. See website for more info.
Club Directory
Now is a great time to plan on how to get engaged with the NHS community! Use the club directory to review the many club opportunities offered at NHS and choose what you would like to be a part of. Try something new! Click here for the directory!
DECA: The new school year is here, and the Storm Supply, the school store in the cafeteria, is fully stocked with fresh gear to help you show off your school spirit all year long! This year, we’re also introducing electronic payments in the Storm Supply for faster, easier checkout.
Stop by to see what’s new and grab your favorites. Can’t make it in? No worries, shop anytime online at bit.ly/newingtondecacatalog and place your order in just a few clicks.
We’ve added tons of new apparel this year, perfect for football games, spirit days, and everyday wear. Whether you're cheering in the stands or participating in themed days, we’ve got something for everyone. Be on the lookout for theme days:
- Black Out
- Red, White and Blue (First Responders)
- Blue and Gold
- Pink Out designs (Breast Cancer Awareness).
Ordered online? You can easily pick up your items in the main office or in Mrs. Miller’s Room 201.
Stay connected and don’t miss a drop—follow us on Instagram @newingtondeca and TikTok @newington.deca for updates, new arrivals, and reminders. Send any questions to amiller@npsct.org.
Get game-day ready and represent in style, shop the Storm Supply!
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Summer Photo Session for Seniors ONLY. In order to have a senior portrait in the NHS yearbook, students must have their portrait taken through Art Rich Photography.
NHS will also be hosting two free sessions on Tuesday September 8th and Wednesday September 30th for seniors to have their yearbook picture taken. There is no charge for this but your picture will be chosen by Art Rich Photography. No proof or retouching is available with this option.
Please contact Lauren Correll at lcorrell@npsct.org or (860 )666-5611 ext. 1352 with any question. |
School Counseling Department |
Seniors Applying to College, - wondering what you can do now before the school year starts?
The School Counseling Department will be using SchooLinks to send out college application supplemental materials (i.e. transcripts, counselor & teacher recommendation forms, etc.). Seniors (class of 2027) were introduced to SchooLinks during junior workshops and individual planning. We will continue to work with students and families on the next steps for the college application process this school year.
Here is a list of things you can do now before the school year starts so when you are ready to submit your college applications the School Counseling Department can send your supplemental materials.
1. Submit the Parent/Guardian “NHS College & Scholarship Records Release” form through PowerSchool Parent Portal under “Forms (in the left menu).” In the PowerSchool Mobile App click More, then Forms, and then [NHS] College & Scholarship Records Release.
2.Complete your Personal Reflection on SchooLinks.
a. On the SchooLinks home page, click on “To Do List” tab, on top of page, and then “Personal Reflection”
b. Answer the questions completely and honestly - this is a major source of information for your counselor’s letter of recommendation
3. Update your resume (should be in Google Drive) and make sure you have shared it with your counselor. If you do not have a resume, create one using this template. You will need to make a copy to create your own. https://bit.ly/NHSResume
All these steps need to be completed before the school counseling department can send out any college application supplemental materials (ex: transcripts and school counselor recommendation letter) for your student.
Below are upcoming School Counseling Events/Dates:
September 9th - Magee and Doran house meetings with Seniors on Post-secondary planning process during advisory
September 10th - Stoddard house meeting with Seniors on Post-secondary planning process during advisory
September 15th - 12th Grade Parent/Guardian night on college application and other post-secondary options.
September 15th - College Funding Strategies night (virtual) advance registration required.
September 11th, 18th, & 25th - College Application support days in Library Classroom periods 1-8.
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A Few Important Things to Note:
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Attendance - Join us in emphasizing the importance of being in school. Attendance is critical to the success of our students. It not only contributes to academic success, but fosters relationships between students and teachers and students and their peers. NHS course work is rigorous and moves at a fast pace, so every lesson is vital to a student’s learning. When students miss school, they miss opportunities to ask questions, deepen their learning, participate in class discussions, and build connections.
We hope that families vacation during school vacation time and do their best to schedule appointments outside of school hours, or at the very least, have their student attend school prior to or immediately after an appointment. When students are pulled from school, it puts them at a disadvantage. If the choice is made to vacation during a time when school is in session, students will only be given one day per absence to submit their work.
If a student is going to be absent a Parent/Guardian must either call Magee House Office on extension 1525 or submit a note through ParentSquare directly to Corina Muir. If a note is submitted through ParentSquare a phone call is not necessary. If a call is made, a note will need to be entered in ParentSquare or brought to the Magee Office to be considered excused (for the first 9 absences for state reporting purposes. These absences, unless extenuating and cleared by administration, will count toward the loss of credit). For any absence beyond 9, a medical note, court documentation, etc. must be presented in order to be excused (for state reporting purposes only. These absences, unless extenuating and cleared by administration, will also count toward the loss of credit).
If a student is absent for medical purposes, medical documentation needs to be brought to the Magee Office office when the student returns to school. Once processed by the Magee Office, the documentation will be given to the nurses.
If a student is tardy, they must enter through the main entrance, sign in on the tardy kiosk and bring their pass to class. For delays or special schedules, they must report to the Magee Office to receive a tardy pass to get into class.
If a student is being dismissed early, a note must come from a Parent/Guardian either through ParentSquare or with a physical note brought to the Magee House Office.
NHS sends an automated message every morning at 9:45 am alerting families of any attendance change. This includes absences, late arrivals, early dismissals, and any message sent via ParentSquare. Therefore, we ask that you do not call if you receive this alert from ParentSquare if you have sent a message to Mrs. Muir via ParentSquare, only if you have not sent a message.
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Electronics - Given the distraction electronics can cause and the potential for inappropriat use, here is our policy:
- Electronic devices are to be used responsibly. Students should follow the individual teacher's classroom rules. Students should NOT have them out in class unless directed by the teacher. If a student is caught with a cell phone or electronic device in violation of our policy while in a classroom, the teacher will confiscate the phone or device, it will be brought to the house office, and it will not be returned until a parent/guardian comes to school to claim it. If a student refuses to turn over their electronic device they will be sent to the main office and the device will be confiscated by administration. Refusal to turn devices over to administration will result in the student being sent home.
- Unauthorized audio/video taping of images (including staff), student altercations, internet postings, and use during emergency drills and procedures (ie. lockdowns, shelter in place, fire drills, etc.) will result in immediate revocation of privileges for the student. The parent/guardian will be notified and appropriate disciplinary consequences will be issued.
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Parent Square - click HERE to obtain all the information about our new School Messenger.
Academic Integrity - Academic integrity is an integral aspect of any institution of education. Students are responsible for demonstrating their understanding of content standards and skills in an ethical manner. Academic dishonesty occurs when a student cheats, plagiarizes, shares assignments, or otherwise misrepresents someone else’s work or ideas as their own.
Cheating includes but is not limited to providing another student with information regarding assessments, copying another’s work, having prior knowledge of assessment materials not provided by the teacher, having unauthorized assistance in answering questions, and/or submitting work that another has completed on a student’s behalf. Plagiarism is a form of cheating that results from misrepresenting words or ideas that are not one's own. This includes the use of technology including artificial intelligence (AI). Students are subject to disciplinary and academic consequences that may impact acceptance into various national honor societies.
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School Based Health Center |
We are excited to continue our partnership with Integrated Health Servies. Please click THIS LINK (English) or THIS LINK (Spanish) to see what they have to offer and how to enroll. |
School nurse information:
Names: Callie Lawrence and Audra Rappoccio
email: hsnurses@npsct.org
phone number: 860-666-5611 x 1163 or 1164
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We are seeking qualified applicants to join our transportation family in serving the Newington Public School community!
*Excellent Pay $25.91 start to $31.34
*18-20 Hours Weekly (Regular School Year)
*School Vacations Off
*Holidays Off
*Great Working Conditions
*PAID TRAINING available for qualified applicants.
Please contact the Transportation Department at (860) 666-2441 or come to 401 Garfield Street, Newington, CT 06111
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If you have any questions, concerns or highlights, please don't hesitate to contact me. You can reach out via the following ways:
- phone: (860) 666-5611 x 1190
- email: ttigno@npsct.org
Proud Principal,
Terra A. Tigno
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