The Orchard Hill Apple Core - Friday, September 18, 2026

Posted Date: 09/18/26 (03:35 PM)

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The Orchard Hill Apple Core

September 18, 2026

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,

Just a reminder that there is NO SCHOOL on Monday, September 21st in observance of Yom Kippur. To all of our families celebrating, I wish you a meaningful and peaceful Yom Kippur.

Have a wonderful weekend!

- Mike

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Three adjustable spotlights cast bright yellow beams of light downwards.

A smiling couple and their happy husky pose together in front of a decorated Christmas tree.

Tori Basso - Grade 1 Teacher

# of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? This is my 29th year of teaching in South Windsor. Roughly 20 of those were at OH - I lost count!
What do you enjoy most about working at our school? The connections I've made over the years with the kids and their families, as well as the fun we have as a staff!
What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I loved substitute teaching and that inspired me to return to college for my master's degree in education.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in the Berkshires, in South Egremont, MA
What college did you graduate from? I have a Bachelor's Degree in Corporate Communication from Ithaca College, and I have my Master's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of New Haven.
What was your favorite sport/activity growing up? Skiing
What was your favorite childhood book or show? My family and I loved watching CHiPs on TV. My favorite book was, "It Could Always be Worse", which I still read every year to my first graders!
Do you have any siblings? I have an older sister and a younger brother.
What do you like to do outside of school? When I'm not home or at work, you can usually find me at the Academy of Martial Arts, where I have been taking cardio kickboxing for over 16 years and hapkido for 2 years.
Do you have any pets? I have a Husky named Skye. He is very calm, quiet, and loves kids. At school, I have a pet axolotl named Lola, who is also calm, quiet, and loves kids!
What's your favorite food or snack? Ice cream! And apples - I eat one just about every day.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Skiing in the Swiss alps. I'd also like to go to Africa someday.
If you weren't in education, what would you want to do? Growing up, I always wanted to work in a zoo.

From the Nurses' Office

A graphic illustration of a bright red apple wearing a nurse's cap with a red cross.

Just a reminder to parents/guardians to complete the Parental Permission for Administration on Non-prescription medications form in PowerSchool. Please be aware that Ibuprofen, sunscreen, and insect repellent must be provided from home and brought in by an adult. For safety and legal precautions, students are not permitted to transport, or keep in their backpacks, any form of medication (i.e. cough drops, cough syrup, topical creams/sprays...). Any over the counter medications sent in must be in its original packaging or it cannot be accepted. Thank you!