Back to School for Students in Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford, and more

Students across southwest Connecticut are returning to school over the next few days. From restored bus routes in Bridgeport to a new school in South Norwalk, here’s some back-to-school highlights from across the region. 

New School in South Norwalk

The long awaited neighborhood school in South Norwalk officially is opening its doors to students this week as Norwalk returns to school on Monday, August 25. This marks the first time in more than 40 years that there’s a new school in South Norwalk. The goal of the Pre-K through 5th grade building is to provide a community school for one of the most diverse areas of the city that has been lacking that facility. 

The school was projected to cost $76 million and it received a 60% reimbursement rate from the state to help fund it. 

Restored Bus Service in Bridgeport

Hundreds of students were facing the possibility of losing bus service this year due to the district’s financial issues. In order to save money, the district had increased the distance students had to live from school before they could qualify for bus service. However, the school district announced that the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) worked with the district’s transportation provider to “restructure the previous contract to reduce costs while maintaining services,” to restore routes for children. 

“Restoring bus services is a direct way of prioritizing our students,” said Interim Superintendent Royce Avery in a statement. “This agreement reduces barriers and ensures they are in the classroom every day, ready to learn. We thank CSDE, Commissioner Russell-Tucker, Mayor Ganim, and our Bridgeport delegation—showing the power of coming together to put students’ success first.” 

Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker noted in a statement that “reliable transportation is essential for attendance, engagement, and student success, and I am grateful that, together with the City of Bridgeport and the transportation company, we can provide this stability and peace of mind for students and families.” 

Darien Unveils New Cell Phone Policy

As part of an effort gaining traction across the country to help students stay focused in school, Darien schools are increasing their efforts to keep cell phones out of the classroom. Last year the district added a policy prohibiting cell phones for students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade. This year, students at Darien High School in grades nine through 11 will be required to store their cellphones in pouches throughout the school day. 

“It is our sincere hope that removing cell phones from the school day will increase student engagement, decrease distractions, and lead to greater human connections,” a letter from Interim Superintendent Eric Byrne read.