Superintendent's Weekly Update- May 24, 2026
Dear Bristol Public Schools Community,
During last Wednesday’s Special Meeting, the Bristol Board of Education unanimously approved the adoption of the 2026–2027 budget. The district’s presentation from this meeting is attached to this message.
With the budget finalized, Bristol Public Schools has rescinded the 137 lay-off notices to non-tenured teachers that were sent out in April.
This budget passage reflects a shared commitment to the students, families, and future of Bristol. On behalf of Bristol Public Schools, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Bristol Legislative Delegation, our Central Office Team, Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu, members of the Board of Finance and City Council, the Board of Education, our dedicated staff, and the residents of Bristol for their collaboration and support throughout this process.
This budget allows Bristol Public Schools to maintain the essential services our students rely on each day while continuing our focus on academic excellence, student support, and opportunities for all learners.
We remain committed to being responsible stewards of public resources while continuing to provide a high-quality educational program that makes our entire community proud. As Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu stated earlier this week, planning for FY28 begins immediately.
Thank you to everyone who supported our schools and invested in the future of our community.
Memorial Day is a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity. While many of us gather with family and friends during the long weekend, we are reminded of the profound meaning behind this national holiday and the lasting impact of those who gave their lives for our nation. It is especially important that we teach our children the meaning of these sacrifices. Educating our students about our nation’s history and the sacrifices made on behalf of others helps inspire gratitude, a sense of responsibility, and a deeper appreciation for our shared community.
All Bristol Public Schools and Offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day. On behalf of the entire school district, I encourage our community to take a moment to remember and honor these heroes and the families who continue to carry their legacy forward.
In partnership,
Iris White
Superintendent of Schools
Congratulations to Bristol Eastern High School and Bristol Central High School on their HALO Award nominations! The HALO Awards, sponsored by Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury, recognize excellence in Connecticut high school theater, with categories and honors similar to those of the Oscars and Tony Awards. Bristol Eastern High School will attend the awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 26, and Bristol Central High School will attend on Wednesday, May 27. Both ceremonies will take place at the Palace Theater in Waterbury. Congratulations to all involved, and best of luck to all of the nominees! We are very proud of you!
Bristol Education Foundation Trivia Night Early Bird Registration
Career Trades Information Session
BristolWORKS!, in partnership with Shaffer-Beacon Mechanical, is hosting a Career Trades Information Session on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Participants will learn more
about what it takes to begin a trade career. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) LAW Camp
July 6, 2026 - July 10, 2026
UCONN School of Law
Hartford, CT
CBA LAW Camp exposes high school students to the legal profession and provides instruction in critical and analytical thinking to help them succeed in their educational and professional careers. The week-long day camp includes panel discussions, mentorship, advocacy training, and preparing for a mock trial competition. Campers will meet attorneys, judges, and law students; observe court proceedings; and learn what it's like to be a lawyer.
There are a limited number of spots available. If students are interested in applying, they should complete and submit an application. The program committee will use the applications to make admissions decisions. The program's goal is to assist students who have overcome adversity in their lives or are the first in their families to enter the legal profession and cannot afford traditional private camps. For campers selected for admission, the program is free.
Application Deadline: May 31, 2026
Aspiring Educators Scholarship Fall 2026 Application Open
Applications are now open for Fall 2026 - Aspiring Educators Scholarship Program for students interested in a career in education. Students must have graduated from a public high school in an Alliance District and be enrolled in an approved, four-year educator preparation program or graduate education program in Connecticut for Fall 2026. The deadline to apply is September 15, 2026. For more information, please see the attached flyer. The application can be found here: https://sdect.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3JfWhvlhUWZjOCy.
