New Canaan High School sets graduation date for class of 2025 with rain date

The New Canaan Board of Education convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss key events and community concerns impacting local education. A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of the graduation date for New Canaan High School's Class of 2025, set for June 16 at 10:30 AM, with a rain date of June 17. This decision aligns with the school district's tradition of celebrating student achievements, including a "grad walk" where graduates visit their former schools, fostering a sense of community and connection.

During the public comment segment, community member Julia Farber raised concerns regarding the Board's policy compliance with Connecticut state law. She emphasized the need for greater parental involvement in policy-making, arguing that reliance on experts may overlook essential community values. Farber's comments reflect a growing sentiment among some parents who seek more transparency and engagement in educational decisions.

Conversely, another resident, Drew McGraton, defended the expertise of trained educators, arguing against parental interference in curriculum development. He expressed concern that some community members might attempt to impose personal beliefs on the educational system, advocating for a focus on the professionalism of teachers and administrators.

The meeting also included announcements about upcoming events, such as the celebration of Arts and Education Month and Middle Level Education Month, highlighting the district's commitment to recognizing the diverse needs of students. Additionally, a statewide initiative called "Wear Red for Education" was mentioned, aimed at celebrating public schools and their transformative role in the community.

As the Board prepares for its next meeting on March 17, the discussions from this session underscore the ongoing dialogue between educators and parents regarding the direction of local education and the importance of community involvement in shaping school policies.