Connecticut State Department of Education Kicks Off the 2026-27 School Year at Annual Back-to-School Meeting with Superintendents

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09/15/2026

Connecticut State Department of Education Kicks Off the 2026-27 School Year at Annual Back-to-School Meeting with Superintendents

This year's back-to-school theme:
Connecticut's Mission: Empower Every Learner's Journey

(HARTFORD, CT) - The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) today hosted its annual Superintendent Back-to-School Meeting, bringing together more than 100 superintendents and education leaders from across the state to kick off and celebrate the new school year.

"Connecticut's schools are strongest when our educators, superintendents, families, and state leaders are working together on behalf of our students," Governor Ned Lamont said. "As we begin another school year, I want to thank our superintendents, teachers, and school staff for everything they do and wish our students and educators a successful and rewarding year ahead."

During the meeting, Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker announced CSDE's 2026-27 statewide education theme - inspired by the Artemis II mission around the Moon - "Connecticut's Mission: Empower Every Learner's Journey."

"Every member of the Artemis II crew started their journey in public schools. Their dreams took shape in public school classrooms, and their journeys are living proof of why our work matters," Commissioner Russell-Tucker told district superintendents at today's meeting. "We are empowering educational journeys right now, in classrooms across Connecticut. Our learners are counting on us to help guide them through every phase of their journey. We want to ensure that every learner is inspired by teachers who see their potential, schools that nurture their curiosity, and communities that believe in what they can achieve."

Commissioner Russell-Tucker was joined by Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell Higgins, and other state and local leaders who shared words of encouragement and thanked superintendents for the work they do every day on behalf of students, educators, and families.

"The start of a new school year is always an exciting time, filled with new opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and discover what is possible," Lieutenant Governor Bysiewicz said. "I am grateful to our superintendents, educators, and school staff for their dedication to Connecticut's students, and I wish every student, family, and educator a wonderful school year."

Commissioner Russell-Tucker also highlighted the progress Connecticut's schools are carrying into the new year, including a fourth consecutive year of improvement in mathematics and science achievement, continued progress in English language arts, and a fourth consecutive annual decline in chronic absenteeism.

Building on that momentum, CSDE's work in 2026-27 will continue to be built on the State Board of Education's Comprehensive Plan, and focused on the following seven key areas:

• Expanding Our Educator Workforce, so that every classroom and central office has the skilled, high-quality, and inspiring educators students deserve.

• Supporting Safe and Healthy Learning Environments, where every student feels a sense of belonging and every staff member feels supported.

• Ensuring Students Are Present and Engaged, because attendance is a precursor to engagement, which is a precursor to learning.

• Elevating and Supporting High-Quality Instructional Materials, giving educators the tools they need to spark curiosity and deepen learning while also giving them back the gift of time.

• Modernizing and Expanding Postsecondary Pathways, so students can see futures that match their talents, passions, and dreams.

• Improving Outcomes for All Students, Including Those with Varying Abilities, with a focus on increased access and opportunity.

• Strengthening and Promoting School, Family, and Community Partnerships, because education is a collective effort, and none of us can empower learners' educational journey alone.

"Connecticut's superintendents bring extraordinary leadership, dedication, and commitment to their school communities every day," said Fran Rabinowitz, executive director of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents. "As we begin a new school year, we are grateful for the continued partnership with Commissioner Russell-Tucker and the State Department of Education and look forward to working together to ensure every student has the opportunities and support they need to succeed."

This year's Back-to-School Meeting also included a student performance by the Lyman Contemporary Ensemble from Lyman Memorial High School, remarks from Rabinowitz, East Lyme Public Schools Superintendent Jeffrey Newton, and a keynote address from Jeremy Anderson, CEO of the National Math + Science Initiative and Amanda Jarrell Billiot, vice president of HR, talent and organizational health at Pratt & Whitney/RTX.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 15, 2026

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Matthew Cerrone
[email protected]
CONNECTICUT Education

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