Superintendent's Weekly Update- June 14, 2026
Dear BPS Community:
Last week, we proudly celebrated the graduates of our Adult Education Program, recognizing their determination, perseverance, and commitment to achieving an important milestone. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiring reminder that learning is a lifelong journey, and we commend each graduate for their hard work and dedication.
Last week, the Community Vocational Program celebrated its graduates with a wonderful banquet at Luna's, a truly special evening filled with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments. The event showcased the strong connections our students and staff have built throughout their journey. It was inspiring to see the pride, joy, and support shared by everyone in attendance as we recognized the accomplishments of these remarkable students. The Community Vocational Program provides valuable opportunities for students to develop skills, confidence, independence, and meaningful connections that will serve them well in the future. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and grateful to the dedicated staff members whose guidance, encouragement, and commitment have helped make their success possible.
This coming week, we look forward to celebrating the graduating classes of Bristol Preparatory Academy, Bristol Central High School, and Bristol Eastern High School. Commencement is a time to reflect on years of learning, growth, and achievement, while also looking ahead to the exciting opportunities that await.
On behalf of the Bristol Board of Education and the entire Bristol Public Schools community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of our graduates. Whether your next step is college, career training, military service, employment, or another path, we are proud of all that you have accomplished and confident in your ability to make a positive impact on the world.
As you begin this new chapter, carry forward the knowledge, skills, and relationships that have shaped your journey. We wish you continued success, happiness, and fulfillment in all your future endeavors.
Congratulations, graduates, and best wishes for a bright and promising future!
In observance of Juneteenth, all Bristol Public Schools and district offices will be closed on Friday, June 19. We encourage our students, families, and staff to take time to learn about the significance of this important day and to participate in community events and activities that celebrate its meaning.
Thank you for being part of a school community that values respect, understanding, and belonging for all.
In partnership,
Iris White
Superintendent of Schools
Celebrating Hope Breakfast:
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending Prudence Crandall Center's Celebrating Hope Breakfast. This truly inspiring event honored survivors, celebrated supporters, and welcomed those beginning their journey toward healing and empowerment.
The program was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of individuals affected by domestic violence and the vital role that organizations like Prudence Crandall Center play in helping people heal, rebuild, and thrive.
It was wonderful to see so many community members, leaders, organizations, and advocates come together in support of this important work. Events like Celebrating Hope demonstrate the power of community—what we can accomplish when we unite around a shared commitment to compassion, support, and opportunity for all.
Bristol Public Schools Initiatives in the State and National Spotlights!
I am proud to share that the June 1, 2026, edition of the School Superintendent's Association (AASA) School Administrator magazine featured Bristol Public Schools in an article titled, "Listening to Lead: Students as Partners in School Improvement."
The article highlights our district's work to elevate student voice as a driver of continuous improvement. It recognizes the efforts of our students, educators, administrators, families, and community partners who understand that meaningful improvement begins with listening.
This national recognition reflects our commitment to ensuring that students are not simply recipients of educational decisions but active partners in shaping their learning experiences and school communities. Through our partnership with Partners for Educational Leadership and the dedication of countless Bristol educators, we have worked to embed student voice into our improvement processes—not as an occasional activity, but as a core leadership practice.
When students become partners in improvement, schools become more responsive, more equitable, and more effective. Their perspectives help us better understand what is working, identify areas for growth, and create learning environments where all students can thrive.
I am especially proud of the students who have shared their experiences with honesty, courage, and purpose. Their voices continue to challenge our assumptions, strengthen our work, and inspire meaningful change throughout our district.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this important work. Together, we are building a culture where every voice matters and every student has the opportunity to help shape the future of Bristol Public Schools.
You can read the full article here:
https://www.aasa.org/resources/resource/listening-to-lead-students-as-partners-in-improvement
On June 11, 2026, the Hartford Courant published an article spotlighting the remarkable career and lasting impact of Bristol Central High School Latin teacher, Kelly Monahan-DiNoia, who is retiring after 38 years of inspiring students through the study of Latin.
Throughout her distinguished career, Mrs. Monahan-DiNoia has helped generations of students discover that Latin is far more than an ancient language; it is a gateway to understanding literature, law, medicine, government, history, and the roots of our modern world. Her passion for teaching and commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on thousands of students, many of whom have gone on to successful careers as doctors, lawyers, educators, nurses, professors, and public servants.
The article highlights not only the outstanding achievements of Bristol Central's Latin students, including their success on statewide and national exams, but also the profound influence Mrs. Monahan-DiNoia has had on her students' lives. Former students continue to share stories of how her lessons shaped their careers, broadened their perspectives, and instilled a lifelong love of learning. Please join me in congratulating Mrs. Monahan-DiNoia on her extraordinary career and wishing her a happy, healthy, and well-deserved retirement. You can read the article by clicking here: https://www.courant.com/2026/06/11/latin-helps-students-excel-in-medical-and-law-fields-bristol-central-students-exceling-in-classical-language/.
Northeast Middle School Reunion:
Last week, our community came together to tour the current Northeast Middle School building and officially say goodbye to it. It was a memorable evening filled with reflection, gratitude, and celebration as former students, staff members, families, and community members reconnected and shared stories from their time at NEMS.
It was wonderful to see old friends reunite, former colleagues reconnect, and generations of Northeast families browse through historic photographs, memorabilia, and documents that captured the school's rich history. Attendees were also treated to a fantastic performance by the band, whose music spanned generations with selections ranging from Earth, Wind & Fire to The Beatles, creating the perfect soundtrack for the occasion.
I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Principal Sonstrom and Dean Cantin for hosting such a classy, thoughtful, and memorable event that honored the school's legacy while celebrating its bright future.
The administration is planning a community open house to allow families, alumni, and community members to tour the new facility. In addition, plans are underway for a formal ceremony to celebrate the completion of this transformational project.
As part of these celebrations, we are honored to move forward with plans to dedicate the new gymnasium in memory of Sergeant Alex Hamzy, in recognition of his service, sacrifice, and enduring connection to our community.
UCONN People Empowering People Graduation:
Earlier this month, the Family Resource Centers (FRCs) of Bristol, in partnership with the UConn People Empowering People (PEP) Program, celebrated the graduation of a remarkable group of participants who successfully completed this transformative leadership and personal development program.
Throughout the program, these individuals demonstrated dedication, resilience, perseverance, and a genuine desire to grow both personally and as community leaders. Their willingness to learn, share experiences, and support one another exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and empowerment that makes programs like PEP so impactful.
The graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of their accomplishments but also a recognition of the positive influence they are prepared to have in the future. The knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills gained through this experience will undoubtedly strengthen our schools, neighborhoods, and community for years to come.
I would like to congratulate all of the graduates on this important achievement and extend my appreciation to the Family Resource Centers of Bristol, UConn's People Empowering People Program, and the dedicated staff and facilitators who helped guide participants throughout their journey.
Together, we continue to build a stronger, more connected community by investing in the leadership potential of our families and residents.
