Farm Hill Elementary

Meet Judy David, a beloved Kindergarten Teacher at Wesley Elementary School whose impact extends far beyond the classroom walls. Nominated by a parent who chose to remain anonymous, Mrs. David represents the profound influence that exceptional early childhood educators have on young lives. "Great teacher always remembered by all students no matter what age or where they go," shares her nominator, a simple yet powerful testament to the lasting impression Mrs. David makes on her students. In kindergarten, children take their first steps into formal education, and Mrs. David ensures those steps are filled with wonder, support, and discovery. The fact that her students carry memories of her "no matter what age or where they go" speaks to the special bond she creates with the students who enter her classroom. Early educational experiences shape how children view learning for years to come. Mrs. David's ability to create positive, memorable moments sets the foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning. We're grateful for educators, like Mrs. David, who understand that kindergarten is about more than academics; it's about creating a safe, nurturing environment where children's educational journey begins with joy and confidence! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Yvonne Daniels, Supervisor of Secondary Mathematics (Grades 6-12) for Middletown Public Schools, whose leadership is transforming mathematics education for students across our district. Nominated by Kate Oslan, a teacher at Beman Middle School, Ms. Daniels exemplifies how strong instructional leadership creates opportunities for both students and educators to thrive. Ms. Daniels was recently named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Mari Muri Award from ATOMIC (Associated Teachers of Mathematics in Connecticut). This exceptional honor celebrates her outstanding contributions toward equity in education for all students, recognizing her as a passionate advocate for student success and an innovator in mathematics education. Her supportive approach with both students and teachers creates an environment where mathematical thinking can flourish, reflecting the very qualities that made Mari Muri a legendary figure in Connecticut's mathematics education community. We're incredibly proud of Ms. Daniels' achievement and grateful for her continued dedication to advancing mathematics education in Middletown Public Schools. ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Kaitlynn Styles, a remarkable Psychology Teacher at Middletown High School whose impact extends far beyond academic instruction! Nominated by student Syeda Hussaini, Ms. Styles exemplifies how powerful the teacher-student relationship can be when built on genuine care and dedication. "Ms. Styles has truly transformed my life for the better," shares Syeda. "She has always been there for me, offering invaluable advice and unwavering support. Whether I needed help with schoolwork or personal issues, she was a person I could always turn to." Through her psychology teaching, Ms. Styles doesn't just share academic knowledge—she models the very principles of empathy, active listening, and meaningful connection that are central to the discipline. This authentic approach has made her "an incredible role model" who helps students grow both intellectually and personally. "She has not only helped me academically but also guided me in becoming a better person," Syeda adds. "Ms. Styles' impact on my life this school year is something I will always cherish." We're profoundly grateful for educators like Ms. Styles who understand that the most lasting lessons often happen in those moments of genuine human connection! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

SAVE THE DATE: Our Cultural Kaleidoscope event at Beman Middle School is almost here! Join us for an evening celebrating diversity, wellness, and community connections on Thursday, May 22, 2025! DANCING | FOOD | ART | GAMES The early activities (5:00-6:30 PM) will prioritize our 21st Century program participants due to space limitations, but we welcome all Middletown families to join if space allows. Everyone is guaranteed seating for the spectacular Li Liu acrobatic performance beginning at 6:30 PM, which is open to the entire community. This FREE event celebrates Arab American Month, Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, and Autism Acceptance Month. Beman Middle School 1 Wilderman's Way, Middletown, CT 06457 Thursday, May 22, 2025 Activities begin at 5:00 PM | Li Liu Performance at 6:30 PM Tag a friend and share this post to help spread the word! #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Jennifer Krapf Birdsey, the extraordinary Cafe Lead 1 at Beman Middle School who's revolutionizing how we think about school nutrition! Nominated by Randall Mel, Director of Food, Nutrition, and Wellness Services, Jenn demonstrates that cafeteria leadership extends far beyond serving meals. "Jenn is an exceptional leader and a true asset to the Middletown Public Schools," shares Randall. "Her dedication, innovation, and passion have transformed Beman into a model cafeteria, recognized not only within our district but by state and national leaders." Through her creative initiatives like the Beman Food Critics, Jenn empowers students to have a voice in their dining experience, teaching valuable lessons about nutrition and advocacy along the way. Her commitment has even taken her to testify alongside students before state legislators in support of school meals! Jenn's impact proves that educational excellence happens throughout our buildings—not just in classrooms. Her work nourishes both bodies and minds, creating a culture where students understand the importance of good nutrition and community engagement. We're tremendously fortunate to have staff members like Jenn whose innovation and dedication create exceptional experiences for our students every day! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Meet Akshara Sudhakar, a remarkable Snow School 5th grader nominated by her proud parents! This talented student recently earned second prize in the statewide CHET Dream Big Competition, receiving a $500 contribution to her college savings plan. Her literary talents also shined in Connecticut's Letters About Literature Contest, where she placed as a semifinalist among the top 10% of all submissions. As the sole representative from Snow School in the district’s Talented and Gifted program, Akshara excels academically and also showcases her diverse talents as a Berlin's Got Talent finalist and competitive Rubik's Cube solver with an impressive personal best of 31.78 seconds! Known for her positive attitude, curiosity, and willingness to help others, Akshara inspires her classmates through her hard work, kindness, and enthusiasm for learning. **** Know a remarkable MPS student deserving recognition? Nominate them here: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPSFutureMakers #MPS4ALL

Meet Jillian Kellogg, Theatre Arts and 12th Grade English Teacher at Middletown High School. She also serves as the Middletown Performing Arts Center (MPAC) Director. Nominated by parent Kelly Reynolds, Ms. Kellogg demonstrates how educators can touch lives both in and beyond the classroom. "My daughter was struggling with several classes and of course her teachers were responsive but Jillian Kellogg went above and beyond in response to my request for help," shares Kelly. "Her email brought happy tears to my eyes and when I read it to my daughter she cried and said 'I just love her'!" Ms. Kellogg's willingness to work with her students and show genuine care and compassion exemplifies the profound impact educators can have. Through both her academic teaching and artistic leadership, she creates spaces where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to overcome challenges. We're incredibly fortunate to have educators like Ms. Kellogg who understand that teaching is as much about connecting with hearts as it is about developing minds. ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Middletown Teachers, THANK YOU. Thank you for leading each day with heart, purpose, and resilience. You ignite curiosity, build confidence, and guide our students through a changing world. Every decision you make shapes a life. Every lesson you teach plants a seed of hope. You are the heart of Middletown Public Schools. We are endlessly grateful. #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

📷 Quick reminder that Spring Pictures are tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, 2025! All students will have their picture taken, even if payment is not sent in ahead of time.

👀 Peek at the week for April 21: April 21 - Grade 5 field trip to Mystic Seaport April 23 - Spring Pictures April 23-24 Kindergarten registration (by appointment only) April 25 - Grade 2 Field Trip

Pasta Dinner and PJ day Good afternoon! Thank you for the wonderful response for the Pasta Dinner fundraiser. At this time, we can no longer accept orders. Again, thank you to all of you that responded! Also, I am pleased to report that students have filled all our buckets as part of our PBIS incentive. They have earned a pajama day on Friday April 11. Please remember no slippers and pajamas should be appropriate for school. Thank you!

❤️ Farm Hill Community: Please register for the 2025 American Heart Association Hoops/ Jump Rope for Heart Fundraiser which ends 4/25/25. Contact Mr. Serra with any questions. Serrac@mpsct.org

Substitute Teachers & Support Staff Job Fair When? Thursday, April 10, 2025; from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Where? Middletown Board of Education, Conference Rm. A, 311 Hunting Hill Avenue, Middletown, CT 06457 Questions? Contact: Lisa O'Neill at LONeill@ESS.com or 860.310.8461

🍝 Please help support the fifth graders' end of year celebrations. The money raised from this fundraiser will go towards their end of the year trip/party, their promotion ceremony, free yearbooks for all students, class tee-shirts and so much more. The fifth graders would love to serve you dinner and sell you some raffle tickets for some really great prizes. All food is donated this year by Farm Hill families, the Latina Family, Illiano's, Mondo's and Big Y. It is sure to be a tasty evening, and the best part is that you don't have to worry about dinner for the night!! Hope to see you there!

Here is our latest and greatest Farm Hill News Broadcast. We will be taking a break from Broadcasts for a few weeks due to testing. Enjoy! https://drive.google.com/file/d/15QmaU_4gKaxjB5QAj9ej6DyUF0vp6yEo/view?usp=sharing

TONIGHT (Wednesday, March 26, 2025): Be part of something truly transformative! Scarlett Lewis brings her Choose Love Movement to Middletown at 7PM. Learn how these principles will shape our schools next year. Snow School Auditorium, free admission. Books available for purchase. #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Our Family Climate & Culture Survey is open through March! Your anonymous feedback helps make our schools better for everyone. Complete a separate survey for each child at different schools. Click the link to participate and help shape our future: https://www.middletownschools.org/page/mps-culture-and-climate #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

Join us as we welcome Scarlett Lewis, founder of the Choose Love Movement, on Wednesday, March 26 at 7PM at Snow School. After losing her son Jesse in the Sandy Hook tragedy, Scarlett transformed her grief into a powerful movement of nurturing, healing, and love. As we prepare to become a Choose Love district in 2025-26, don't miss this inspiring opportunity to hear her story. This event is FREE and open to all families and district employees! All are invited and encouraged to attend. Details here: https://www.middletownschools.org/article/2096879 #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

It’s not too late to sign up!⏰🚨We’re so close to reaching our $15,000 goal, but we need your help to get to the finish line! Sign up at MyBooster.com today. ✅Just a few minutes of your time can make a BIG difference! 🙏#makeadifference #supportourschool DON'T FORGET it's FREE to sign up and your child will get a Dude Perfect Special Edition Key Chain!!! Need help? Contact your child's teacher or Miss Brooke

Today your students learned about CREATIVITY and how to be a LIFE LEARNER. “I use my imagination to create something unique.” “I love to learn. I read and ask questions about the world.” Log on to MYBOOSTER.COM to watch the story unfold! Don't forget about our nightly challenge! The grade with the highest sign ups will get to see the Booster Team get Ice Bucketed! Go to MYBOOSTER.COM tonight to register and help our school!