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Taland students honored for state-level DECA and swimming achievements; two teachers celebrated on retirement
Summary
The Taland Board of Education recognized student accomplishments — swimmer Ben Pope and DECA competitors — and paid tribute to teachers Miss Bridge and Lisa Madson on their retirements. The board paused briefly for photos and applauded staff contributions to student success.
The Taland Board of Education opened its June meeting with a series of recognitions, spotlighting student and staff achievements.
Ben Pope, introduced by the superintendent, was honored for a string of state- and open-championship performances in freestyle and butterfly events and for holding multiple school records. Coaches and board members praised Pope’s competitive record and character; during a light-hearted question-and-answer exchange he confirmed he will swim in college at Bucknell University.
The board then heard a presentation from the district’s theater and DECA advisors. Mr. Fields described the district’s Halo Awards nominations — the result of adjudication of 195 productions statewide — and reported 10 nominations this year. Miss Bridge and co-advisor Lori Nesbet introduced 16 DECA students who outlined event placements, including first-place finishes and international qualifications. The DECA advisor summarized the program’s growth and outcomes, saying the club has “been a powerhouse in the state of Connecticut.”
The board closed its acknowledgements by recognizing two long-serving teachers who are retiring. Colleagues described Miss Bridge as a cornerstone of the high school and praised her leadership with the school store and theater programming. Lisa Madson was noted as a longtime reading interventionist (the record states 18 years of service) and was credited with strengthening literacy instruction and MTSS implementation across the district; colleagues singled out her role mentoring staff and leading schoolwide initiatives.
The recognitions concluded with photographs and informal remarks. The board moved on to routine business after a short break.
