During the Waterbury Board of Education meeting on December 19, 2024, the community came together to honor the memory of several former educators who recently passed away. A moment of silence was observed for James McKee, a retired teacher and tutor who taught adult ESL, Richard Calabrio, a long-serving teacher at Crosby High School, and Raymond Short, a retired vice principal of Crosby High School. Their contributions to the Waterbury Public Schools were acknowledged, reflecting the deep impact they had on the community.

The meeting proceeded with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Crosby students, followed by the roll call of board members and city officials, all present to discuss important educational matters. Interim Superintendent Dr. Schwartz highlighted significant achievements within the district, announcing that Chase, Kingsbury, and Reagan Elementary Schools were recognized as "schools of distinction" based on their performance in the 2023-2024 Next Generation Accountability System. Notably, Waterbury is the only district in its reference group to have three schools achieve this status, a testament to the hard work and dedication of both students and staff.

Dr. Schwartz also mentioned a recent legislative roundtable held on December 9, which included collaboration between the Board of Education, the executive cabinet, and the mayor's office. This gathering aimed to address educational issues and foster communication among key stakeholders in the community.

The meeting underscored the importance of recognizing educational achievements while also honoring the legacy of those who have shaped the district's history. As the board continues to navigate challenges and celebrate successes, the focus remains on enhancing educational outcomes for all students in Waterbury.