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Friday, February 6th Weekly Update

Posted Date: 02/06/26 (03:35 PM)
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Orchard Hill Weekly Update

Friday, February 6, 2026

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,
It's hard to believe, but Monday is the 100th day of school! As a reminder there is NO SCHOOL Friday, February 13th - February break.
We're looking forward to our PTO BINGO Night tonight - 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Timothy Edwards Middle School.
Have a SUPER weekend and stay warm!
- Mike
 
A spotlight shines on the words 'STAFF SPOTLIGHT'.
A woman with dark, wavy hair smiles at the camera, wearing a leopard print top and a delicate necklace.

Mrs. Erum Ehmad - Reading Paraeducator

  1. # of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? First year at Orchard Hill and third year working at the elementary school as a Paraeducator 
  2. What do you enjoy most about working at our school? I enjoy the micro-interactions with students and staff. They brighten my day.
  3. What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I’ve always been interested in psychology and philosophy. Educational environments provide a rich atmosphere for understanding human nature and exploring related philosophical concepts.
  4. Where did you grow up? I grew up in the Karachi, Pakistan's financial, commercial, and port capital, also known as "The Bride Of The Cities."
  5. What college did you graduate from?City University of NY, Queens College and I have a certification in Design Thinking from MIT
  6. Do you have any siblings? I'm the only child
  7. What was your favorite sport/activity growing up? Volley Ball, my serves matched Andy Roddick's in power and speed :)
  8. What do you like to do outside of school? Hiking, painting, gardening, reading, and community service
  9. What's your favorite food or snack? Mississippi mud pie and vegetable smoothies
  10. What's your favorite childhood book or show? Show: Jonny Quest, Full house and Adam's Family. I've always been techy! Book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
  11. Do you have any pets? I’ve had a hedgehog in the past, but I currently don’t have any pets. I'd love to adopt a cat.
  12. If you weren't in education, what would you do? Fine Artist
  13. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Japan
A person's hand gently holds a small hedgehog with its quills visible.
Two acrylic paintings hang on a textured wall: one of a sailboat at sea, the other an abstract design.
 

Upcoming Events

Monday, February 9th

STEM After-School Clubs - 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
 

Wednesday, February 11th

FULL Day - 3:20 p.m. dismissal
 

Friday, February 13th

NO SCHOOL - February Break
 

Valentine's Day Messages

A flyer announces a Valentine's Day message opportunity for students, with a sample message included.
 

Timothy Edwards Family Night (Grade 5 Families)

Invitation to Timothy Edwards Middle School Family Information Night on February 11, 2026, at TEMS Auditorium.
 

Girls on the Run

Girls on the Run:
  • Helps girls of all abilities grow confidence
  • Builds friendships, teamwork, and a sense of belonging
  • Combines fun movement with life skills like managing emotions and making friends
  • Ends with a Community Impact Project and a joyful 5K on May 9th
Girls on the Run is a special experience that works best when participants are excited to join and able to attend sessions regularly, as each lesson builds on the last. If full attendance may be tricky this season, we’d love for your family to consider a future session so every girl can enjoy the full experience—spots are limited.
Learn more in the short video or on the GOTR website. Use the QR code or link to register, and please don’t hesitate to reach out to the contact below with any questions!
Girls on the Run program flyer with season details and registration information.
 

Dr. Martin Luther King Essay Contest

Senator Chris Murphy's 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest is open from Monday, January 20th to Monday, February 23rd. Important contest information can be found below and on the Senator’s website here: https://www.murphy.senate.gov/services/mlk-essay-contest. 
 

26-27 Peer Role Model Application for Preschool Outreach Program (POP)

South Windsor Public Schools is now accepting applications for community peer role models in the preschool outreach program (POP) for the 2026-2027 school year. If you are interested in this opportunity for your child, please complete the Preschool Outreach Program (POP) Community Role Model Application. Peer role model screenings will begin in January 2026. You can learn more about POP by accessing our school district's website.
 

Friday Folders

Food Service Newsletter
SWHS Operation Graduation
 

PTO Information/Events

PTO Spring Early Release Wednesday Clubs

Flyer for 'Just for Fun ART-Ventures' art classes for kids K-5, starting March 18th.
A flyer for 'Mad Science Secret Agent Lab' program with dates, times, and registration details.

PTO VIP and Me Dance Save the Date!

Introducing the new PTO VIP & Me Dance happening Friday, March 13 from 6:30–8:30 pm! The theme is “Back to the 80’s,” so get ready to bust a move and get Footloose in your neon for a totally rad night of music, dancing, games and unforgettable memories. Students are invited to attend with a parent, guardian, or special adult for an evening of fun, school spirit, and quality time together. Family Raffles will be a part of this event and will be cash only. Ticket sales and parent volunteer sign-up details will be out soon!
Poster for an 'Everybody Dance Now... Back to the 80s' event, featuring neon lights and 80s-style graphics.
 

District Calendars

2025-2026 District Calendar
2026-2027 District Calendar
 

When Should You Keep Your Child Home From School?

A guide titled 'Should I keep my child home or send them to school?' lists health guidelines.
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