Wallingford Board of Education encourages public input at community engagement meeting

The Wallingford School District Board of Education meeting on May 29, 2025, highlighted significant community engagement initiatives and the ongoing commitment of educators to support students and families. The meeting opened with a reminder of the importance of public input, emphasizing respectful dialogue as a model for students.

One of the key discussions came from Anne Veron Letterly, the outgoing president of the Wallingford Education Association (WEA), who expressed gratitude for the board's collaboration with teachers. She introduced various community service activities undertaken by the K Kids Club at Highland School, which has been active for over 12 years. This year, the club engaged students in numerous charitable activities, including collecting socks for a local food pantry and pet food for a shelter, demonstrating the program's impact on fostering civic responsibility among young students.

The meeting also featured presentations from Lyman Hall's Agricultural Science program, where teachers Casey Valvan and Shannon Russo showcased the extensive community involvement of their students. They highlighted the success of the annual Ag Fair, which attracted around 2,000 visitors and provided students with hands-on experiences in agricultural education. The program's partnerships with local organizations and industry professionals were noted as vital for student development, offering opportunities for certifications and real-world applications of their studies.

Additionally, Christina Jensen and Jen Castelli discussed the establishment of a food pantry and thrift shop at Lyman Hall. The food pantry, supported by staff donations and community grants, provides essential items to families in need, while the thrift shop offers students access to clothing and other necessities. The initiative has seen significant participation, with around 145 students utilizing the shop monthly, and has inspired interest from other schools looking to implement similar programs.

The board members acknowledged the importance of these initiatives, particularly as they prepare to discuss budget cuts in the upcoming meeting. They emphasized the critical role teachers play in supporting students and families, especially during challenging times. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to ensuring that every student has a trusted adult to turn to, reinforcing the need for continued support for educational programs and community engagement efforts.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed hope that these initiatives would continue under new leadership, ensuring that the focus on student welfare and community involvement remains a priority in Wallingford schools.