Kennedy High School students celebrate achievements during Waterbury Board meeting

The Waterbury Board of Education convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss key updates and celebrate student achievements, highlighting the ongoing commitment to educational excellence within the district. The meeting, which will be the only one held in July due to a cancellation of the regular meeting on July 17, set the stage for a focused discussion on the accomplishments of local students and upcoming initiatives.

Student representatives from Kennedy High School, Vidya Sager and Jaden Acevedo, presented a comprehensive report detailing the successes of their peers. Sager, who served as the senior vice president and co-president of the theater department, shared that the school celebrated a graduation ceremony for 320 students, with 93 earning the prestigious seal of biliteracy. She emphasized the importance of the arts in education, noting that the theater department received six nominations for the Halo Awards, Connecticut's equivalent of the Tony Awards, and that she won for her performance in "Clue."

Acevedo, the eleventh-grade representative, highlighted the achievements of the school's music and sports programs. The music department received gold ratings in recent adjudications, and the band has been invited to perform in Hawaii next year, showcasing the growth and talent within the program. Additionally, he noted that several sports teams qualified for state tournaments, reflecting a strong athletic culture at Kennedy.

The meeting also served as a farewell to Sager as she prepares to attend the University of New Haven to pursue a degree in criminal justice. Her contributions and leadership were recognized by board members, who expressed their appreciation for her dedication to the school and the community.

Looking ahead, the board discussed the establishment of a new math honor society at Kennedy, aimed at recognizing exceptionally gifted mathematics students. This initiative reflects the district's commitment to fostering academic excellence and providing diverse opportunities for student engagement.

In conclusion, the Waterbury Board of Education meeting underscored the district's dedication to student success and community involvement. With plans for a special meeting on July 10, the board aims to continue its focus on educational initiatives and support for students as they transition into the next academic year.