Additional settings for Safari Browser.
Superintendent's Weekly Update- January 16, 2026
Posted Date: 01/16/26 (05:31 PM)
Dear BPS Community,
This Monday, January 19, 2026, all Bristol Public Schools will be closed in observance of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At Bristol Public Schools, we believe Dr. King’s words and legacy speak directly to the heart of public education. Each day, our students, educators, and staff are called to greatness through service to others, a shared commitment to equity, and a passion for learning that unites us all. Together, we continue the work of teaching and learning with purpose, preparing students not only for academic success but to serve, lead, and uplift others.
In partnership,
Iris White
Superintendent of Schools
Board of Education Budget Workshop:
The Bristol Board of Education will hold its first Budget Workshop for the development of the 2026–27 Board of Education Budget on:Saturday, January 24, 2026
9:00 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers
111 North Main Street
and via Zoom
During this workshop, I will present the Superintendent’s Proposed FY 2027 Budget.
Zoom Information:
Bristol Board of Education - January 24, 2026 - Budget Workshop Meeting
Meeting ID: 914 9511 1557
Passcode: 538029
_____________________________________________________________________________
Meeting with Bristol Legislative Delegation:
Thank you to Representatives Cara Pavalock-D'Amato, Mary Fortier, and Joseph Hoxha for taking the time to meet with Director of Finance Jodi Bond and me last Thursday to discuss the current status of education funding in Bristol. Senator Henri Martin was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict. We appreciated the opportunity to share our district’s needs and to engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can collaborate to advocate for increased education funding, support that is critical to sustaining high-quality educational opportunities for our students while helping to ease the burden on local taxpayers. We value your partnership and continued commitment to the Bristol community.
ICE Enforcement Action Protocol Update
In consultation with our legal counsel at Shipman & Goodwin, Bristol Public Schools implemented an ICE Enforcement Action Protocol last year. These protocols are designed to protect students and staff, ensure compliance with the law, and provide administrators with clear guidance should Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or any immigration officer come to school property or request information.While there have been no substantive legal changes, Shipman & Goodwin has issued an updated version of its guidance, and our protocols have been revised accordingly. The updated protocol is attached for your reference.
Our schools remain safe, welcoming environments for all students. Bristol Public Schools continues to be guided by established legal protocols and the advice of counsel. If you have questions, please contact the Office of the Superintendent.
Aspiring Educators Scholarship Program
The Aspiring Educators Scholarship Program is available to students who:- Graduated from a public high school in an Alliance School District, and
- Are enrolled in an approved educator preparation program in Connecticut.
Application Deadline: February 6, 2026. Please see the attached flyer for more information
10th Annual Southern Connecticut College & Career Fair
The 10th Annual Southern Connecticut College & Career Fair will take place on:Wednesday, April 22, 2026
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater, Bridgeport
This free event is the largest college fair in Connecticut, featuring over 185 colleges, universities, businesses, military representatives, and gap-year programs. All high school students and their families are encouraged to attend.