Welcome Back to the 2025-26 School Year!

Dear NPS Community,

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to open the 2025–26 school year!

I was thrilled to see our schools filled once again with the energy of students, teachers, and staff. The first day always brings a special sense of excitement, a fresh start, a positive attitude, and the readiness to learn and grow together.

Before visiting schools, I began my morning at the bus depot to thank our dedicated drivers who get our students to and from school safely every day. They are the first smiling faces our students see each morning, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. I am so grateful for the care and support they bring to our community.

This year’s opening was extra special as we welcomed families into the brand new South Norwalk Elementary School. After more than 40 years, bringing a neighborhood school back to South Norwalk has been a dream for many, and seeing that dream become reality was a true joy.

I was honored to greet students and families alongside Mayor Harry Rilling and First Lady Lucia Rilling, hearing from children about what they were most excited to learn this year. We were also grateful to welcome Governor Ned Lamont and Senator Bob Duff at the end of the day, who joined us in celebrating with our South Norwalk students and families on this historic first day of school.

My gratitude goes to Principal Randall Austin and Assistant Principal Francheska Rodriguez for their incredible leadership in preparing the school and staff for such a memorable first day. This school is truly going to be a game changer for the South Norwalk community.

Across the district, I saw students walking into their classrooms with confidence and joy. For those who felt a little nervous, our principals, teachers, and staff were right there with encouragement, smiles, and high-fives to remind them that they are going to do amazing things this year.

I also want to take this moment to reassure our families that student safety remains our top priority. These are challenging times, but we are steadfast in ensuring that every child learns in an environment where they feel safe, welcomed, and supported socially, emotionally, and academically. Every student deserves the confidence that comes from knowing they belong.

As I continue visiting schools and programs this week, I look forward to seeing even more of the great work happening across our district. I want to wish everyone good luck this year. Let’s make it our best one yet!

Yours in Partnership,

Dr. Alexandra Estrella, Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools