Hartford J1 previews community fair and invites families to review pilot curriculum before May vote

Dr. Tara Voboos, district administrator and host of the District Download podcast, said the Hartford J1 School District will hold a community fair March 16 at Central Middle School to connect students and families with local organizations and let parents preview instructional materials before an upcoming board vote.

"When we thought of the idea for the community fair ... it was all about getting kids active in the community," said Mr. Joe Navar, a community coordinator. "Kids who were active in the community ... would not only be stronger academically ... attendance would also be greater." He said the fair began four years ago and has grown into a recurring chance to link students with community-run activities.

Morgan Rainey said the event is also designed to welcome incoming fifth-graders and ease the transition to middle school by letting them tour the building, meet staff and sign up for electives. "It's a great opportunity for them to get to see the building and meet some of the staff members," Rainey said.

Katie Malter, the district’s director of curriculum and instruction, said families attending the fair will be able to look at resources teachers are piloting — specifically eighth-grade civics materials and new English language arts resources for elementary and middle grades — and speak directly with teachers. "Teachers are available to answer questions, and families have an opportunity to really dig in and take a look at what those resources could potentially be in the future," Malter said. She noted the board is scheduled to vote on the materials in May, giving families time to review the pilots.

Teresa AOF highlighted the role of local partners at the fair and the kinds of programs families can learn about, naming examples such as the Boys and Girls Club (which offers wraparound care at Lincoln and Rosman elementary schools) and Hartford Union High School club programming. "Every organization has something to offer families at all ages, stages, and seasons of their life," Teresa AOF said.

Mara Perfect outlined logistical details and family-facing activities, including summer program sign-ups and hands-on exhibits: "Hartford Parks and Rec will be there ... Pike Lake will be there and they also bring some very cool animal pelts and the kids always love being able to explore those." She confirmed the fair is March 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Central Middle School.

The district framed the fair as one in a series of outreach efforts intended to strengthen school–community ties and encourage family involvement. The podcast host closed by asking listeners to share the episode and reminding families that the curriculum review will be finalized by a May board vote.