During a recent meeting of the Southington Board of Education, members observed a moment of silence to honor the memory of three former employees who recently passed away. Cheryl Colomica, an interim paraeducator who served at South End Elementary and Strong Elementary, died on September 7. She had been with the district since February 2016 and retired in July 2023. Barbara Kanakata, who began her career in the Southington Public Schools in September 1977, passed away on September 4. She taught at Flanders and Strong Elementary before transferring to Kennedy Middle School, retiring in June 2003. Gerald Dandreau, a crossing guard hired in October 2010, passed away on August 7 and retired in August 2022.

Following the remembrance, Board Chairperson Medansky welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of celebrating student achievements as the school year commenced. He expressed enthusiasm for the innovative projects and ideas that students bring to the district, setting a positive tone for the meeting. Alicia Naoway, the district's coordinator of math and science for elementary schools, along with Amy Zappone, the director of teaching and learning, were invited to present and celebrate the accomplishments of the students, highlighting the district's commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in education.