Happy New Year, families!
Welcome back, I hope you all enjoyed a restful winter break, had a special time with loved ones, and made wonderful new memories. As we start this fresh year and a new term, I’m excited to see all of our students' new goals for a strong, positive start at John Paterson. Here’s to growth, kindness, and a year full of learning!
I also wanted to inform all parents and guardians of the Health and Wellness Program that we implement every year. Please take a look at our letter below with important information.
Dear Parents/Guardians,
The Newington Public Schools Health and Wellness Program supports students in developing lifelong wellness through a comprehensive health and physical education curriculum. The curriculum is written to align with the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Healthy and Balanced Living Curriculum Framework as well as the Guidelines of Comprehensive Health Education.
The state framework includes a developmentally appropriate focus on safe and healthy boundaries. At the elementary level, students learn about appropriate displays of affection, including safe and unsafe touches. They are empowered to set boundaries, feel safe, and talk to a trusted adult when needed. They also learn to respect the boundaries of others.
The primary goal of the health program is to teach students how to communicate and advocate for their individual needs, stay healthy, and make healthy decisions. Newington Schools believes that these topics are critical for the well-being of our students. They also lay the foundation for prevention of sexual abuse and assault. Per Connecticut General Statute 17a-101q, if you do not want your child to participate in the component of the health curriculum outlined in this letter for this school year, please provide a written request to your child’s teacher by Friday, January 23, 2026.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me to discuss further.
Sincerely,
Arleen
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