The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Students celebrated, learning new skills
Children display talents, tech at Board of Ed meeting
Students showed off their skills and were celebrated Tuesday evening during the December meeting of the Winchester Board of Education.
Maxwell Uber, 6, read aloud using a device that broadcast words for him, reveling in the attention of an audience that filled the P. Francis Hicks room at Town Hall.
Asa Flint, Max’s father, said Maxwell has been diagnosed with autism and is non-verbal. He said his son was doing well in school and loves to learn. It was a pleasure to see him showcase his skills Tuesday, he said.
“I loved it. It was great,” said Flint.
Diana Wachtel, 8, briefed those in attendance on her special education program. Diana was also diagnosed with autism and attentiondeficit disorder, her mother Lisa Wachtel said.
She said Diana was excelling in the program, which helps her control her behavior and learn coping skills. She credited “incredible” teachers, who provide daily emails on Diana’s progress.
“She’s doing very good,” said Lisa Wachtel.
The Pearson Show Choir also performed during the meeting, singing two holiday favorites. The children are preparing to share some festive cheer by caroling on Main Street on Dec. 19.
School psychologist Cassandra Murphy, a Canton resident, was recognized for her work in the district Tuesday — an unexpected and appreciated pleasure, she said.
Director of Student Services Seamus Cullinan said Murphy had helped improve education at Pearson and in the district as a whole, including work on testing and the support of students.
“I can’t thank you enough,” said Cullinan. “This is an opportunity for us to celebrate you and recognize all the hard work that you’ve done.”
Superintendent Melony Brady-Shanley said Murphy was representative of the quality of staff in the Winsted schools.
“This is the caliber of staff member that we have here, and we want to make sure that our community knows that and celebrates that,” said Brady-Shanley.
Murphy said she enjoyed working with the diverse student body in the district and having support from her co-workers and the community.
“Thank you for the opportunity — it’s been very exciting,” said Murphy.