This episode of "From Forest to Shore" tackles the anxiety surrounding elementary school math. We sit down with two Math Interventionists who share practical strategies for parents to support their kids' learning at home. We'll bust common myths, discuss the importance of a growth mindset, and provide fun, everyday activities that build foundational math skills beyond flashcards and worksheets. Get ready to turn math struggles into a journey of confidence and fun!

In this episode, we sit down with departing members of the Stratford Board of Education to reflect on their years of service. We'll explore their proudest achievements and the inspiring moments that defined their tenure, celebrating the lasting impact they've made on our schools. This is a chance to hear firsthand what it takes to serve on the board and to thank a true advocate for our students and staff.

Join hosts Matthew Rivers and Dr. Michelle Eckler as they dive into the essential work of the Stratford Public Schools Digital Wellness Task Force. This episode features Rachelle Dene Poth, AI expert and coordinator of the task force, and Bunnell High School junior Anthony Darbilli, the student representative. Discover how this grant-funded team is revising the district's Acceptable Use Policy and developing a comprehensive guidebook to support the growth of the whole student. The discussion explores what "digital wellness" truly means for today’s learners, the challenges students face balancing their digital lives, and key strategies educators and families can use to foster responsible, healthy digital habits. Learn about the collaborative effort to create communicators, collaborators, lifelong learners, and solution-driven problem solvers  in the digital age.

In this episode, we're joined by department heads from both Bunnell and Stratford High Schools to discuss how they're shaping the future of education. We’ll explore the intentional integration of the Portrait of a Graduate into the curriculum and how it’s being used to develop essential skills like communication and problem-solving. This conversation will also highlight the increasing importance of student voice and the exciting collaboration between the Humanities and STEM departments to create innovative, interdisciplinary learning experiences.

This episode offers a comprehensive guide to Special Education and Student and Staff Services in the Stratford School District. We'll clarify the often-confused differences between a 504 plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP), and walk families through the process of initiating an evaluation for special education services. We'll also highlight unique support programs and share essential advice for families just beginning their special education journey.

In this episode of From Forest to Shore, we sit down with our technology integration specialists to explore how they're bringing learning into the 21st century. We'll uncover their day-to-day work, discuss the importance of weaving technology directly into the curriculum, and hear how they are helping teachers and students succeed. Get ready to learn how a solution-driven mindset is making our classrooms more collaborative, creative, and innovative.

In this episode, we sit down with Fine Arts Department Head Brian Crook to discuss the ins and outs of our FIne Arts Department.  This episode provides a deep dive into the Fine Arts Department of Stratford Public Schools. We'll explore how arts education contributes to a student's holistic development, helping them cultivate key attributes like communication and collaboration. The discussion also features exciting stories of student progress and a look into the future of the district’s art and music programs.

In this important episode, we sit down with three school principals, one each from the elementary, middle, and high school levels, to discuss how we are working to keep our students safe. We’ll explore how to talk to students of all ages about safety without causing fear, the specific safety measures in place across our schools, and how parents can partner with us to create a secure learning environment for everyone. Tune in to learn more about our commitment to student well-being.

In this episode, we're putting the spotlight on Stratford Public Schools' new cell phone policy. We sit down with Assistant Superintendents Dr. Phil Piazza and Dr. Diana DiIorio to discuss the policy's goals, its impact on student focus and social dynamics, and the challenges of creating a technology-balanced learning environment. We’ll explore how the policy is being implemented across all grade levels, from PreK to 12th grade, and what the future holds for technology use in our schools.

In this episode of From Forest to Shore, we explore the crucial link between school attendance and student success. We're joined by Director of Career and Community Learning, Sam Rosenberg, and Family Engagement Specialist, Migda Carrero, to discuss the barriers to attendance and the proactive strategies the school district has in place to help families. They share their insights on how consistent attendance impacts not only academic achievement but also a student's long-term well-being and future career prospects.