Board of Education Student Updates October 9, 2025

PHILIP THIBODEAU PHOTO

At each meeting of the Board of Education, three student representatives from Southington High School update the Board and the public on school system news. This year’s representatives are Ethan Hoffman, Arshi Roy, and Samrath Singh. What follows is their report from the Board meeting of October 9.

Ethan Hoffman -- High School Updates

CIAC Sportsmanship Conference

This past Tuesday, a dozen Southington High School student-athlete leaders attended the annual CIAC Sportsmanship Conference, which brought together over 670 student leaders from across Connecticut. The event featured guest speakers, including an NBA referee and a WTNH sports reporter, who discussed strategies for promoting sportsmanship both on and off the field.

Wall of Honor

The annual Wall of Honor ceremony will be held on October 22 at 6:00 PM, as mentioned by Mr. Brown. The event recognizes distinguished Southington High School alumni for their accomplishments and contributions to the community.

Fall Festival

The Agri-Science program hosted its Fall Festival on October 8 at 6:00 PM, welcoming AgSci families for an evening of activities and celebration.

National Honor Society Induction

The NHS Fall Induction Ceremony will take place on October 16, recognizing new members for their academic excellence and leadership.

PSAT Administration

PSAT testing for sophomores and juniors is scheduled for October 16. Freshmen and seniors will follow a three-hour delay schedule that day. Good luck to all taking the test!

BKAP and Senior Overhead Drone Photo

On October 9, the senior class participated in the annual overhead drone photo organized by SHS that will go in the yearbook.

Music Department – Fall Performance

The SHS Music Department will hold its Fall Performance on October 21 at 6:00 PM.

Apple Harvest Parade

Southington High School was well represented in the Apple Harvest Parade. DECA, Robotics, Marching Band, and Color Guard all participated, proudly showcasing school spirit.

Arshi Roy -- District Highlights

South End Elementary hosted its first-ever Color Run on October 10, raising over $18,000 in donations and pledges.

Thalberg Elementary recently held Special Persons Night, where students invited family or friends for an evening ice cream social and book fair. Later this month, the school will host its annual Trunk or Treat event.

JFK Middle School has launched a Student Leadership Team composed of eight diverse students who meet with administration to provide feedback and ideas for improving the student experience.

The JFK Eagle Marching Band and Colorguard performed at the Apple Harvest Parade.

JFK’s Morning Announcements continue to engage students through weekly “Theme Song Thursday” competitions and spotlights on notable Hispanic influencers in recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15).

Samrath Singh -- Sports Update

The fall sports season is nearing its conclusion, with several teams excelling:

Boys Golf improved to 11–3, with recent victories over Avon and Farmington.

Girls Swim & Dive improved to 6–1 after defeating Newington.

Boys and Girls Cross Country teams remain undefeated in divisional meets.

Girls Soccer secured a spot in the State Tournament with a 1–0 win over Berlin.

Field Hockey celebrated Senior Night on Tuesday.

Football earned a thrilling 36–30 victory over Hall, with a fourth-quarter, fourth-down game-winning drive. They travel to New Britain this Friday.

Boys Soccer hosted Youth Soccer Night on Wednesday and collected non-perishable food donations for Bread for Life.

Issue in Focus: Inclusive Religious and Cultural Observances

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant holidays in Indian culture and is celebrated by thousands across Connecticut. As of 2022, there were 68,112 Indian residents in the state. On August 27, Governor Ned Lamont signed legislation recognizing Diwali as an official Connecticut state holiday.

Many districts—including Glastonbury, South Windsor, West Hartford, Newington, Farmington, Bristol, Avon, Ellington, Rocky Hill, Trumbull, and Stamford—have incorporated a day off for students and staff to celebrate and observe Diwali.

We are respectfully requesting that Southington Public Schools also recognize Diwali as an official school observance day, allowing students and families the opportunity to fully celebrate this important cultural and spiritual occasion without academic penalty.

Additionally, we encourage the district to consider broader recognition of major observances from other faiths and belief systems—including Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, and Indigenous traditions—to foster a learning environment rooted in equity, respect, and cultural inclusion for all students.