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Board approves curriculum updates, BAMEs study‑abroad trips, and accepts estate donation to arts program
Summary
The board approved new and revised courses, two Bristol Central study‑abroad/exchange trips to Italy, several curriculum updates, and accepted a donation of roughly 80 paintings and art supplies from the estate of Richard Santorso Sr. Multiple curriculum approvals and trip permissions passed unanimously.
On Jan. 8 the Bristol Board of Education approved a slate of curriculum updates, new elective courses and two international travel proposals for Bristol Central and Bristol Arts & Innovation Magnet School (BAMEs), and accepted a donation of original artwork from a local artist's estate.
Program and curriculum approvals included the 2025–26 high school Program of Studies (approved 8–1), and new or revised courses presented to the board: Pottery 3, Improv Comedy, and Found Object Art. A wellness curriculum revision was also approved to align with updated Connecticut and national standards. Several new electives and articulated college-credit courses were noted in the Program of Studies presentation.
The board authorized two Bristol Central trips: a 2026 exchange with G. Nolfi Classical Language School in Fano, Italy, involving reciprocal hosting, and a 2027 study‑abroad trip to Sardinia tied to a high school program on culture and healthy living. Teachers described the exchange and study-abroad plans as year-long planning efforts that include fundraising and family engagement. Both trip permissions were approved unanimously.
Bristol Arts & Innovation Magnet Principal Liam McCabe presented a proposed donation from the estate of local artist Richard Santorso Sr.: about 80 paintings spanning the artist's lifetime (circa 1961–2024) and a modest quantity of art supplies. The board accepted the donation unanimously; school staff said the works would be used as teaching examples and that an exhibit at BAMEs would be planned.
Motions to approve the Program of Studies, new courses and curriculum revisions were made, seconded and passed by recorded voice vote. The board set no additional conditions on the travel approvals beyond the usual district trip procedures and parental permissions.
