Dear Watertown Public Schools Families: On 10/28/20 the WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT was notified that a member of our school community (Judson Elementary School) has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). The affected individual has been instructed to remain in home isolation until deemed recovered by the Health Department [we are not allowed to say any... READ MORE >
On Monday, October 26, 2020 the Watertown Board of Education approved Lisa Jones as the new Business Manager for Watertown Public Schools. Ms. Jones received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and Master’s Degree in Education Leadership and Supervision from Central Connecticut State University. Lisa has extensive experience working in education finances that... READ MORE >
Dear Watertown Public Schools Families: On 10/25-26/20 the WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT was notified that members of our school community have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19); one case at Polk and the other case at Swift. The affected individuals have been instructed to remain in home isolation until deemed recovered by the Health Department [we... READ MORE >
Watertown Staff and Families, URGENT INFORMATION As of this evening, we need to close Polk Elementary tomorrow due to a COVID-19 related issue per the recommendation of the Torrington Area Health District (TAHD). The TAHD will complete contact tracing tomorrow and inform any affected individuals. NO SCHOOL at POLK ELEMENTARY on Monday, 10/26/20. We will keep... READ MORE >
Dear Parents and Community Members: On 10/19/20 the WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT was notified today that a member of our school community has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). The affected person has been instructed to remain in home isolation until deemed recovered by the Health Department [we are not allow to say any more about the affected... READ MORE >
Dear Parents and Community Members: As you know, on 10/12/20, the WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT was notified that a member of our school community tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). [We are not at liberty to say anymore about the affected person.] Based on contact tracing conducted by the Torrington Area Health District in conjunction with school... READ MORE >
Watertown Students, Parents, Staff and CommunityPlease read the following informational letter regarding a confirmed Covid 19 case from Dr. John Ramos, Interim Superintendent of Watertown Public Schools. READ MORE >
Watertown Community,Please read and respond to the following Superintendent Search Survey found attached below:Watertown Superintendent Search-Invitation to participate in Focus Groups and SurveyMary Broderick, CABE Search Consultant READ MORE >
News to Know The central office staff of the Munson House is scheduled to move into the new Town Hall on the afternoon of Friday, October 9! The plan is to be set up and ready for business in our new space on Tuesday, October 13, the day after the Columbus Day Holiday. Current Learning Models/School Schedules As you know, we continuing to monitor COVID – 19... READ MORE >
Please see the Watertown Public Schools Mascot Committee Website here READ MORE >
On Tuesday, September 22, 2020, the Watertown Board of Education approved Joanna Schipke as the new Food Service Director for Watertown Public Schools. Ms. Schipke is a Registered Dietitian who received her Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Connecticut. She went on to complete her dietetic internship at Keene State College. Joanna... READ MORE >
The Watertown Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Sjovall as the new Director of Student Services for Watertown Public Schools. Amy obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and History from Concordia College Bronxville, followed by her Master’s in Special Education from Central Connecticut State University. After teaching... READ MORE >
Please see attached, the 2020-2021 welcome back letter from Watertown Public Schools Interim Superintendent, Dr. John Ramos. READ MORE >
Please click here to see the 20-21 Watertown Public Schools Bus RoutesCall Michelle Pennella at First Student @ 860-274-5212 if you have any questions regarding routes. READ MORE >
Login details for our Board Meeting on September 14, 2020 at 7:30 pm. Join the meeting at: meet.google.com/eeb-cgdj-mdc LIVE STREAM THE REMOTE MEETING at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIf9pwrH64gbrzGfmV4dtSw READ MORE >
On August 17th, 2020 the Watertown Board of Education appointed Dr. John Ramos as Interim Superintendent of Schools effective August 27th, 2020. Dr. Ramos moved to Watertown to serve as its Superintendent in 2002 where he quickly became an integral part of the community and was recognized as a visionary leader and organizational healer. Prior to 2002 he was the... READ MORE >
LOG IN DETAILS FOR THE SPECIAL BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING ON AUGUST 17, 2020. 7:30 PM The login information for members of the pubic who may wish to comment or to ask a question is: https://meet.google.com/xon-zzpu-kfp To view the meetings live without the option of commenting or asking questions: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIf9pwrH64gbrzGfmV4dtSw READ MORE >
Parents and Staff,2020 WHS commencement video READ MORE >
Please click here to see the 20-21 revised Watertown School Calendar READ MORE >
Please see attached ReOpening presentation from Monday, June 29th Special Board of Education Meeting. READ MORE >
LOG IN DETAILS FOR TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2020. The login information for members of the pubic who may wish to comment or ask questions is meet.google.com/vgd-pvyu-qbv To view the meetings live without the option of commenting or asking questions:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIf9pwrH64gbrzGfmV4dtSw Dear Watertown Families, Over the last month, our... READ MORE >
Summer Learning 2020 Watertown Public Schools is offering a variety of academic and creative activities that are relevant for all ages and grade levels. Although the activities are not required, we encourage students to keep their skills sharp over the summer. Click HERE for more information. READ MORE >
On Tuesday, June 16th, the Watertown Board of Education approved Gino Faiella as the next Facilities Manager. Mr. Faiella has 24 years of experience in facilities management. He is currently the Operations Site Manager for IST Management Services, Inc. in Greenwich. Prior to this role, Mr. Faiella served as the Director of Facility Operations for Newtown Public... READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools is delighted to celebrate Lori Birtwistle as our 2020-21 Paraeducator of the Year. Ms. Birtwistle was one of eight exemplary paraprofessionals nominated, representing all five of our schools, for the committee’s consideration. Ms. Birtwistle expressed her appreciation during a small gathering on her front lawn earlier this afternoon. In... READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools is pleased to announce that Kelly Bainer, Special Education teacher at Polk Elementary School, has been named the 2020-21 District Teacher of the Year. Ms. Bainer was surprised at her house in Prospect by a car parade of students, members of the Polk Elementary Staff, and district office staff earlier today. The parade of 50+ cars, led by... READ MORE >
This is a joint statement from the Watertown Board of Education and Watertown Police Department about the Class of 2020 Parade that is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, 2020. READ MORE >
Over the last several days I have been looking for the right words to share; words that would adequately express the sadness and pain that I have been feeling over the senseless death of an unarmed black man. Once again, our country roils in outrage and anguish over the violence and destruction that stems from systemic racism. Once again, we grieve with the victims... READ MORE >
Congratulations to WHS principal, Dr. Janet Parlato, for being selected as the recipient of the William Cieslukowski Outstanding First-Year Principal Award for 2020-2021. Dr. Parlato's nomination from Nicole Lewis was outstanding, showing her to be a strong and innovative educational leader as well as a role model for others.As teacher Paulina Auclair writes in her... READ MORE >
On Wednesday, May 20th, the Watertown Board of Education approved Kristin Raymond as the next principal of Judson Elementary School. Ms. Raymond is currently the assistant principal at Thomaston High School where she has been working with 7th-12th grade students and their families for the past six years. “Although it is hard to say good-bye to Thomaston after 16... READ MORE >
2020 Watertown Wall of Honor nomination form:Watertown Wall of Honor Nomination READ MORE >
Here is a digital presentation of the District Art Show, art made by our K-12 students, that was supposed to occur March 18 along with the Food Truck Festival that was canceled. Please understand a few student works are missing because we still had a week to set up. The majority of the student work is here. Thank you for supporting Watertown Art!Click Here to... READ MORE >
Click HERE for information about distance learning in Watertown Public Schools. READ MORE >
Click below for the latest updates from the district regarding COVID-19.COVID-19 UpdatesCOVID-19 Supplemental LearningCOVID-19 Questions & Answers READ MORE >
Click this link for current information from the Yale School of Medicine pediatric infectious disease specialist, Dr. Thomas Murray. READ MORE >
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided school districts across the country with information to prevent the spread of germs so that communities can remain healthy during cold and flu season and if CoVID19 becomes present in Connecticut. Here is a simple reminder of the best strategies to keep you and your family members healthy. READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools approaches budget development in a conservative and fiscally prudent manner with input and feedback from a variety of stakeholders. This collaborative approach helps ensure we are making wise use of the taxpayer dollars entrusted to us. As a district, we are grateful for support from our students, employees, parents and Town residents to... READ MORE >
DR. RYDELL HARRISON’S2020/2021 BOARD OF EDUCATION BUDGET COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS WednesdayMarch 4, 2020 7:00 PMJohn Trumbull Primary School GymnasiumThursdayMarch 5, 2020 7:00 PMSwift Middle School Library TuesdayMarch 10, 2020 7:00 PMPolk Elementary School Library ALL ARE WELCOME - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC READ MORE >
On Monday, January 27, 2020 the Board of Education voted to approve the 2020-2021 Program of Studies which includes an increase in the number of courses that will provide students with college credit, a music technology course and a horticulture class. During the meeting, the Board also approved administration’s recommendation to change the passing average from 70... READ MORE >
On Wednesday, December 4, 2019, the Watertown Board of Education approved Matthew L. Paylor, II as the next assistant principal of John Trumbull Primary School (JTPS). Mr. Paylor is currently the assistant principal at Seawell Elementary School in Chapel Hill, NC. “Although I will miss the Seawell Elementary family, I am excited to be a part of the Watertown... READ MORE >
Sun, Moon & Stars, Inc., in collaboration with Watertown Public Schools, islaunching Project Puzzle Piece, an opportunity for businesses to help spread awareness andraise funds for the Watertown Unified Sports spring 2020 season. Press Release 1Press Release 2 READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools is excited to partner with Titan Energy of Rocky Hill and Green Skies of Middletown to bring solar energy to the district. Over the next few months, solar panels will be installed at Judson Elementary, Swift Middle and Watertown High School. The installation is part of the district’s plan to integrate green energy and solar into learning... READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools is excited to continue the tradition of inviting Kindergarten students to design the district holiday card for a fifth year. This tradition brings together our district and community and reminds us of the positive impact our students make each day. Earlier this year, all kindergarten students created a winter scene in class that included... READ MORE >
On Monday, November 4, 2019, the Watertown Board of Education approved Jennifer Galik as the next principal of Polk Elementary School effective immediately. Prior to taking the reins as Polk’s interim principal, Ms. Galik served as John Trumbull Primary School’s assistant principal. “While I am very sad to say goodbye to the many people I have had the privilege of... READ MORE >
Watertown Public Schools is excited to welcome Charles “Chip” Schofield, our new Security/Residency Officer at John Trumbull, Polk and Judson. Ofc. Chip recently retired from the Naugatuck Police Department after 20 years of service. Throughout his law enforcement career, Ofc. Chip worked as a School Resource Officer for four years, served as a DARE Officer for six... READ MORE >
Watertown High School seniors are required to complete a Senior Capstone Project. This independent project is a culminating opportunity for students to bring together their academic strengths and personal interests. Students are required to dedicate 60 hours toward the completion of their project. Examples of past capstone projects include: planning fundraising... READ MORE >
Dear Watertown Families,It is a great pleasure to welcome both our returning families as well as those who are new to our district to a new school year. The start of the school year represents an opportunity for us to be reenergized by our students’ sense of wonder and anticipation and, even after more than 20 years in education, I still get excited about the new... READ MORE >
Please see the attached file to review using My School Bucks program from Food Services. READ MORE >
Click on the following link to see transportation information for your child's 2019-2020 school bus route. 2019-2020 Bus Information READ MORE >
As Watertown Public Schools begins the process of selecting a new principal for Polk Elementary School, we would like stakeholder input as to the most important professional qualities the new leader should possess. Please click here to access a brief survey.Thanks in advance for your input. READ MORE >
The Watertown Board of Education is pleased to announce that after a thorough selection process, Lisa Fekete has been selected as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction. Ms. Fekete is currently the Principal of Polk Elementary Schools. The selection process began in late June after former Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Janet Parlato, was appointed as the... READ MORE >
Dear Watertown Families, I hope you are enjoying your summer. This week, you will receive an email from Watertown Public Schools inviting you to update your Returning Student Registration for the 19-20 School year in your PowerSchool Parent Portal. Please be reminded that you must use the Parent Portal sign in, not your student's login to the portal. Please click... READ MORE >
It is with deep regret that we inform you about a loss to our school community on July 17th regarding a recent graduate of Swift Middle School. Dear Swift Families, It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community. On July 17th,... READ MORE >
Watertown Families looking for before and after school care for the coming school year? Consider registering your child for the YMCA Watertown Before and After School Program. For information regarding schools, activities, rates, and more, follow the link! https://www.waterburyymca.org/programs/after-school READ MORE >
Please see information regarding 2019 WHS Summer School here. READ MORE >
On Monday, June 11, 2019, the Watertown Board of Education approved the Superintendent’s recommendation to appoint Dr. Janet Parlato as the next principal of Watertown High School. On May 28, 2019, Principal Dan Carroll announced his resignation from Watertown High School effective June 30, 2019 and the position was posted internally. “I was so excited that Dr.... READ MORE >
Parents and Students entering grades 2-6: Click on the links below for a Summer Math Calendar of fun math activities! An activity or problem from the calendar a few days a week will help maintain the mathematical concepts and skills from the prior year and you'll have fun too! Click here for: · Students entering Second Grade · Students entering... READ MORE >
Please read the following press release regarding Colleen Ferrucci, the 2019-2020 Paraeducator of the year for Watertown Public Schools. READ MORE >
Please read the following press release from Dr. Harrison in regards to the 19-20 Watertown Teacher of the Year, Maria Teixeira.Congratulations Maria. READ MORE >
Please see the community hours for Dr. Harrison for the month on June: June 12 at 3:00 pm Oakville Branch READ MORE >
The Watertown Board of Education is currently seeking nominations for the Watertown High School Wall of Honor. The purpose of the Wall of Honor is to recognize those individuals that have brought distinction to Watertown High School and the community through their commitment to excellence. To be nominated to the Wall of Honor, a candidate must have graduated from... READ MORE >
This article was originally posted at the website YaleMedicine.org on March 19, 2019As the vaping epidemic continues, researchers point to well-known health risks associated with nicotine.Data show clearly that young people are vaping in record numbers. And despite the onslaught of reports and articles highlighting not only its dangers but the marketing tactics... READ MORE >
Save the date and time for the 2019 District Art Show READ MORE >
Watertown Families:As a follow-up to our recent community presentation about social media use among children and teens, our Director of Student Services, Mr. Christopher Brown, has written a brief article with a great deal of helpful information about managing screen time, please read article below.Learning to Manage Screen Time with Your ChildChristopher Brown... READ MORE >
Class of 2019 Graduation Requirements 4 Credits - English 3 Credits - Math 3.5 Credits - Social Studies 2.5 Credits - Science 1 Credit - Physical Education .5 Credit - Health 2 Credits - World Languages 1 Credit - Capstone .5 Credit - Counselor Workshop 6.5 Elective Credits 24.5 Total Class of 2020 Graduation Requirements 4 Credits - English 4... READ MORE >
Please see the attached flyer in regards to keeping our children safe and well. Learn more about social media safety and the dangers of vaping from local experts and prevention partners. READ MORE >