The Orchard Hill Apple Core - Friday, August 28, 2026

Posted Date: 08/28/26 (03:35 PM)

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The Orchard Hill Apple Core

The heart of what’s happening at Orchard Hill!

August 28, 2026

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,

We had a great first few days here at Orchard Hill and are looking forward to a full week next week. Students are learning routines, making new friends, and having lots of fun.

Enjoy the beautiful weekend!

- Mike

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Three adjustable spotlights cast bright yellow beams of light downwards.

A man wearing a red toy firefighter helmet and a blue 'Connecticut Mustangs Baseball' shirt smiles at the camera.

Greg Smith - Head Custodian

# of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? 8 years at OH 13 years in district
What do you enjoy most about working at our school? I enjoy the interaction with the students and staff. They make everyone feel welcome and like family!
What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I always enjoyed doing hands on work at home and being part of a community. My dad was an employee in the district for over 20 years. I wouldn’t have been here if it wasn’t for him.
Where did you grow up? Manchester, Ct
What college did you graduate from? Eastern Ct State University
What was your favorite sport/activity growing up? Baseball has been my life since I could walk. I played from tball all the way through college. I now am coaching my son and a travel team.
What was your favorite childhood book or show? My favorite book was always a Dr. Seuss one!
Do you have any siblings? 2 sisters and a brother. Also have 2 stepbrothers.
What do you like to do outside of school? I love coaching and also love doing home improvement projects especially flooring!
Do you have any pets? I have two cats Rocket and Meg.
What's your favorite food or snack? I love Italian food and Reese’s Peanut butter cups
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? I hope to one day make it to Europe.
If you weren't in education, what would you want to do? My dream job would be doing commentary for ESPN

Upcoming Events

Colorful text reads 'PTO Meeting' in a playful, hand-drawn font.

Wednesday, September 2nd

PTO Meeting - 7:00 p.m. (cafeteria)

Monday, September 7th

NO SCHOOL - Labor Day

Thursday, September 10th

Open House

Come learn more about Orchard Hill and your child's classroom!

6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - Principals’ Presentation (gymnasium)

7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. - Classroom Presentations Session I

7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Classroom Presentations Session II (repeat of Session I)

**this event is for parents/guardians/caregivers only

Wednesday, September 16th

Early Release - 12:45 p.m. dismissal

Friday Folder Flyers

Food Service Newsletter

Join Cub Scouts!

Girls on the Run

PTO Happenings

A colorful calendar displays events for Orchard Hill Elementary PTO from August 2026 to June 2027.

Orchard Hill Elementary's 1st PTO Meeting invitation for the school year, scheduled for Wednesday, September 2nd at 7 PM in the OH Cafe.

PTO Fundraisers

Support our Orchard Hill community with these fundraisers that continue all year!

Quick links

OH Spirit Wear: https://teamlocker.squadlocker.com/#/lockers/orchard-hill-elementary-school

Box Tops for Education: Download the Box Tops for Education app in your Apple or Android store.

Car/Fridge Magnets:

Magnet Fundraiser - Orchard Hill Elementary

Mabel's Labels:

Support a fundraiser

Search: Orchard Hill Elementary School PTO

Poster detailing year-round fundraising opportunities for Orchard Hill, including Spirit Wear, Box Tops, Magnets, and Mabel's Labels.

Orchard Hill Family Night Event: UConn Men's Soccer Game

Cheer on UConn Men’s Soccer with Orchard Hill families ⚽🎉

Join us for a fun night in the stands as we come together outside of school to support our students and one another.

Ticket sales from this event support the Orchard Hill Elementary PTO initiatives and activities that enrich our students' experience and build our school community. Reserve your spots, bring your spirit wear, and enjoy the game with fellow Orchard Hill families.

Saturday, October 10 @ 6:00pm at Morrone Stadium, on the UConn Storrs Campus.

Tickets will remain on sale until they are sold out.

Questions email: Laura @ orchardhillvicepresident@gmail.com

Poster for UConn Men's Soccer Orchard Hill Family Night on Saturday, October 10 at 6:00 PM.

PTO Early Release Wednesday Programs

We are excited to offer Mad Science and Imagine Arts Academy programs on early release Wednesdays starting 9/16! You are able to sign up for multiple sessions throughout the year now. Reserve a spot now!

A young boy intently focuses on a science experiment with a blue apparatus.

Crayola Imagine Arts Academy presents a 6-week after-school art adventure called Legends & Lore for ages 5-12.

Mad Science Registration

Imagine Arts Registration

2026-2027 District Calendar