Amity Schools: Celebrating Grads, New Policies & Awards

Celebrating the Class of 2025

On June 10, our community proudly celebrated 319 graduates as they crossed the stage at Amity Regional High School’s Annual Commencement Exercises. On behalf of the entire Board of Education, congratulations to the Class of 2025! Thank you for all you have contributed to our schools and communities over the past six years. We wish each of you success and fulfillment in the exciting paths ahead.

New Cell Phone Guidelines Support Learning and Wellness

This fall, Amity Regional School District will introduce an updated cell phone and personal electronic device policy. Why? Research – including a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General advisory – has highlighted how unrestricted phone use can affect teens’ focus and mental health.

Starting in September:

• Middle school students will keep phones powered off or silent and stored away during the entire school day.
• High school students may use phones only during lunch, between classes, and during study hall unless a teacher asks them to use devices for learning. It is expected that their phones will be powered off or silenced.

Teachers will still integrate technology when it enhances instruction, and we ask families to help by encouraging healthy phone habits and avoiding non-emergency calls or texts during school hours. Together, we are creating calmer classrooms and stronger learning environments.

Honoring Service and Dedication

At our June meeting, the Board recognized staff who have served our students with distinction:

• 30 Years of Service: Marie Cantor (Orange Middle School) and Sean Malloy (ARHS).
• Retirees: Catherine Covino (paraeducator), Tracy Daigle (administrative assistant), Joe Robinson (instructional technologist), Christine Healy (special education teacher), and Robert Long (social studies teacher).

These individuals have touched countless lives. We are deeply grateful for their dedication.

Celebrating Excellence – Gold Pen Awards

On May 22, our community gathered to honor teachers chosen by their colleagues for exceptional contributions. Congratulations to:

• Tom Ward, English – AMS Bethany
• John Simone, Math – AMS Orange
• LeeAnn Browett, Social Studies – ARHS

These educators embody the creativity and commitment that make Amity thrive.

Innovation on Wheels – Alternative Energy Vehicle Race

Amity’s Career and Technical Education program entered two student-built cars in Connecticut’s 29th Alternative Energy Vehicle Race on May 23—and placed 1st and 3rd! Competing against more experienced teams, our students showcased- innovation, teamwork, and true Amity spirit.

STEAM Day Inspires Future Spartans

On May 29, nearly 375 fifth graders from Bethany, Orange, and Woodbridge explored science, technology, engineering, arts, and math at our annual STEAM Day. With over 100 high school students and 30 staff leading hands-on- demos, our youngest learners got a glimpse of the exciting opportunities waiting for them at Amity High School. The energy in the building was contagious and appreciation is given to ARHS teachers Angelo Amato and Jessica Zamachaj for organizing this inspiring day.

AP Achievement at Amity

This May, 376 high school students took 790 Advanced Placement exams in 32 subjects. An impressive 74% scored in the highest range (4 or 5), a 10% increase from last year, and 92% earned a passing score of 3 or higher. These achievements reflect demanding work by students and educators alike. It is important to note that many colleges and universities accept high AP achievement as college credit.

Welcoming Student Voice

We are pleased to welcome Shreya Viswanathan, a junior, as the newest student representative to the Board of Education. Shreya will serve alongside senior Janet Fan to share student perspectives and ideas with us throughout the year.

Thank You for a Successful School Year

Thank you for your continued support. As our Amity Community, you play a significant role in shaping the educational experience of our children in Bethany, Orange, and Woodbridge. Together, we celebrate our students’ achievements and work toward an even brighter future. As we move through these summer months, the Board wishes you rest, joy, and plenty of time to enjoy family and friends. Have a wonderful rest of your summer vacation!

For families with students in our schools, please remember to check your email beginning in August for important updates and communications from both your student’s school and the district as we prepare for the 2025-2026 school year.