March 31, 2023

Dear Families,

Thank you for your continued partnership. Please see below for some updates from Hartford Public Schools.

<NEW> International Trans Day of Visibility

Today is International Transgender Day of Visibility. I want to emphasize the importance of celebrating and supporting all members of our Hartford Public Schools community. Our diversity is what makes us stronger, and I am calling on all of you to help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected, safe, and comfortable being their true selves.

Last year, the Hartford Board of Education unanimously approved a new policy on Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Youth, which follows federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. This policy also furthers the District’s mission to support the whole student by creating an inclusive culture in our schools.

To our LGBTQ+ students and staff: please know that you are seen, valued, and heard. You matter, and your voice matters. Remember that you can always reach out to one of our many trusted and caring adults for support. For more resources and services, click here.

<NEW> School Spotlight: SMSA Students Receive Grant for Educational Robot

I’d like to give a special shoutout to two students who have displayed outstanding kindness, compassion, and perseverance while conducting their Capstone project. Angie Echevarria and Rihana Foote, seniors at Sport and Medical Sciences Academy, are working with children on the autism spectrum for their capstone, inspired by their younger sisters who both have autism. In addition to volunteering at CONNECTicut Families, a center for children with autism, Angie and Rihana applied for a grant to purchase a Kebbi Robot, an educational robot that helps children on the spectrum learn facial expressions, body movements, and communication skills. Angie and Rihana are currently receiving training with the robot so they can hold sessions for their sisters and other members of the community. I am so proud of these young women for persevering through the challenging grant process, being positive role models in our District and for pursuing a Capstone project that has such meaning and impact. Angie and Rihana will also be featured in an upcoming “Great Kids” segment on WFSB with reporter Wendell Edwards. Keep an eye out for that story!

Click here to view the Kebbi Robot in action!

<REMINDER> Resources and Events

Here are some important dates, events, and resources:

Register Now for the Prom Dress Giveaway

Join a Workshop to Build Effective School Partnerships

Yours, in partnership,

Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez Superintendent Hartford Public Schools

Superintendent's Update - March 31st 2023