January/February '26 Message from the Superintendent

Dear NPS Community,

We are certainly off to a snowy start to the year! I hope you and your families have been able to stay warm and safe during these recent storms, and maybe been able to enjoy some outdoor fun or cozy moments together at home.

The winter weather has not slowed the incredible momentum across Norwalk Public Schools. The past two months have been filled with meaningful milestones and celebrations.

At the end of January, we proudly celebrated the graduation of our Future Ready scholars. This year’s winter ceremony marked our largest class yet, with 22 graduates from Brien McMahon High School, Norwalk High School, and P-TECH Norwalk earning their diplomas. These students demonstrated tremendous resilience and determination, overcoming personal challenges to reach this important milestone.

Watching them walk across the stage, surrounded by proud family members and educators, was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. We are so proud of their accomplishments and wish them every success in the next chapter of their journeys.

We also recently hosted an important community conversation following a screening of “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age,” a film that explores the impact of screen time on children and adolescents. While technology continues to be a valuable tool that enhances learning and prepares our scholars for the future, we remain equally committed to preserving the essential elements of childhood — play, collaboration, creativity, and face-to-face communication. The personal connections our students build each day in classrooms, on playgrounds, and in activities are foundational to their growth and long-term success.

Those connections are strengthened by the incredible mentors who support our scholars. At a recent Board of Education meeting, we were proud to honor participants in the Norwalk Mentor Program and the My Sister’s Keeper and My Brother’s Keeper initiatives. These mentors dedicate their time, energy, and hearts to guiding students and helping them see their limitless potential. Their impact is profound and deeply appreciated.

Beyond these programs, I also want to recognize our teachers, support staff, and administrators, who serve as daily mentors to our students. Their commitment to nurturing, guiding, and inspiring our scholars truly defines the spirit of NPS.

As we celebrate the many successes across our district, we must also remain focused on the work ahead to ensure these opportunities continue for every student. Earlier this year, we welcomed three new members to the Board of Education—Nellie Cole, Marcus Jaime and Garrett Oliver—and are grateful for their willingness to serve our community. Under the leadership of newly elected Board Chair Howard White, the Board is working closely with our Finance Department and our partners in city government to secure the funding necessary to sustain and strengthen our schools.

The City has recommended a 4% increase to the district’s budget. While we appreciate this support, it falls short of what is needed and would require the district to reduce more than $6 million from our proposed budget so soon after having to make significant reductions last year. Such cuts would present serious challenges for our schools and the services our students rely on each day. I remain committed to engaging in thoughtful, constructive conversations with our city partners so that together we can provide the high-quality educational experience our students and families deserve.

As we look ahead, I hope you will join us for our 4th Annual Black History & Heritage Festival on Thursday, February 26 from 5:45 to 8 p.m. at Norwalk High School. This celebration is always a highlight of the year as it showcases the extraordinary talents of our students while honoring the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black leaders and communities. Events like this reflect our deep commitment to celebrating diversity, learning from one another, and strengthening the bonds that unite us. I look forward to enjoying the performances and connecting with many of you there.

Though the snow may still be falling, our students continue to thrive, grow, and achieve remarkable things. Warmer days and green grass will return soon enough but until then, I am inspired each day by the energy, resilience, and promise I see across our schools.

Yours in Partnership,

Dr. Alexandra Estrella
Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools