Friday, October 24th Weekly Update

Posted Date: 10/24/25 (3:35 PM)

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Orchard Hill Weekly Update

Friday, October 24th, 2025

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,

Thank you to the South Windsor Fire Department for visiting Orchard Hill today and teaching our grade 2 students about fire safety! I know it's been a while, but next week is a five-day week with lots of great events culminating in Halloween (for those students/staff who celebrate) next Friday. Please see more information below.

Have a wonderful weekend!

- Mike

Fire trucks and a trailer are parked near a building, with people gathered nearby.

Children climb a ladder into a fire safety trailer, assisted by a firefighter.

A spotlight shines on the words 'STAFF SPOTLIGHT'.

Barbara Johnson - Grade 1 Teacher

# of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? 20 years @ OH but have been teaching for almost 35 years.
What do you enjoy most about working at our school? Orchard Hill isn’t just a place — it’s a family. We treat one another with respect and genuinely care for each other. I feel like I can go to anyone here — whether it's something personal or professional — and be met with support and understanding..
What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I"m not sure. I've wanted to be a teacher as long as I could remember. I even wrote a poem about it in 2nd grade.
Where did you grow up? I grew up on Long Island in a house that my parents still live in.
Do you have any siblings? I have 2 younger sisters and gained an older sister when I married my husband.
What was your favorite sport/activity as a child? I’ve always loved to dance. Sometimes, I feel like I danced more than I walked as a kid. I have fond memories of dancing for my parents on Saturday nights, choreographing routines with my friends, and dancing for my grandmother during backyard barbecues. She always made me feel so special. I also spent many years cheerleading, starting in our local rec department when I was 8 years old and continuing through high school.
What’s your favorite childhood book or show? I loved reciting nursery rhymes with my parents and sisters.
What’s your favorite food or favorite snack? I can never say no to dark chocolate.
What do you like to do outside of school? I enjoy relaxing, spending time with family, and solving logic problems

Employment Opportunity

A blue background with the words 'We're Hiring' in bold text.

Part-Time Reading Paraeducator Position

Are you interested in joining our Orchard Hill team? If so, consider applying for our vacant 19.5 hour reading paraeducator position! This paraeducator will work collaboratively with reading interventionists to assist and guide students to reinforce reading skills. You can apply online here.