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Friday, February 13th Weekly Update

Posted Date: 02/13/26 (03:35 PM)
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Orchard Hill Weekly Update

Friday, February 13, 2026

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,
We are thrilled to share that our very own Jackie Calkin (Bartomioli), Grade 5 teacher, has been nominated for MagicSchool AI Educator of the Year! She is one of only EIGHT teachers in the entire country who has reached the semi-final round. Let's help Mrs. Calkin get ot the final round! Please click on the following link to vote for her - https://www.magicschool.ai/ai-educator-awards

This recognition highlights her innovative approach to teaching and her commitment to enhancing student learning through thoughtful integration of technology. We are incredibly proud of her dedication, creativity, and leadership in the classroom.

MagicSchool AI is an education-focused artificial intelligence platform designed specifically for teachers. It helps educators streamline lesson planning, differentiate instruction, create assessments, communicate with families, and support diverse learners—all while saving valuable time. Mrs. Calkin's nomination reflects her forward-thinking mindset and her passion for using tools like MagicSchool AI to strengthen teaching and learning for all students.

As a reminder, there is NO SCHOOL Monday, February 16th - Presidents Day
- Mike
MagicSchool's AI Educator of the Year Semi-Finalist: Jaqulyn Calkin, a Grade 5 Teacher at Orchard Hill Elementary School.
 

PTO Information/Events

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.

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.
 
A spotlight shines on the words 'STAFF SPOTLIGHT'.
A woman smiles at the camera on a sandy beach with gentle waves in the background.

Monica Muello - Grade 3 Teacher

  1. # of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? I have been in education for 15 years. This is my 10th year in the classroom - 9 years in 1st and now 3rd. I have always taught in South Windsor. 
  2. What do you enjoy most about working at our school? I love the connected community at Orchard Hill. I very much enjoy our Staff & Families. 
  3. What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I wanted to actively be a part of young students’ learning journeys, cultivating a sense of love, value, and belonging.  . 
  4. Where did you grow up? Newington, CT
  5. What college did you graduate from?Bryant College (now University) with a business degree
  6. Do you have any siblings? 2 sisters and a brother - I am the oldest. 
  7. What was your favorite sport/activity growing up? Swimming 
  8. What do you like to do outside of school? SUP, bike, actively seek the ocean 
  9. What's your favorite food or snack? I love pasta and chocolate.  
  10. What's your favorite childhood book or show? I loved Nancy Drew mysteries. 
  11. Do you have any pets? Room 123 has a dwarf umbrella plant named Zoey!
  12. If you weren't in education, what would you do? Event planner for an international company 
  13. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would Eat Pray Love back to Italy. 
 

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 began in January 2026. You can learn more about POP by accessing our school district's website.
 

Upcoming Events

Monday, February 16th

NO SCHOOL - Presidents Day
 

Wednesday, February 18th

FULL Day - 3:20 p.m. dismissal
 

Thursday, February 19th

Student Council Meeting - 7:30 a.m.
MOEMS Math Olympiad Club - 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
 

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. 
 

Friday Folders

Peace At Home Newsletter
Screenagers
 

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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