Among Westport’s many holiday traditions, none is more beloved than the Candlelight Concert.
For 85 years — ever since 1941, a few days after Pearl Harbor — the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town has thrilled and inspired audiences.
Musicians — singers, and orchestra and band memories — cherish it as one of the highlights of their school lives. Many return as alumni, to bask in its magic.
Two women — now in their 80s — traveled from Oklahoma for last weekend’s Candlelight. Decades after graduating, in 1961 and ’63, they smiled with joy through the traditional “Sing We Noel” processional, the “Hallelujah Chorus” finale with dozens of alumni joining the stage, and so much in between: the beautiful Jewish tune “Al Shlosha”; the percussive Nigerian song “Ogo ni fun Oluwa”; a haunting rendition of “Stille Nacht”; complex works by Prokofiev, Rutter and Tchaikovsky; creative student ensembles, and more.
It was one of the best Candlelight Concerts ever — a high bar, indeed.
But few members of the appreciative audiences knew what it took to produce this year’s show.
Though they worked since school began, Candlelight preparations never really begin until Staples Players’ fall show ends.
This year’s production — “Les Misérables” — was an especially enormous undertaking. Many of the actors are also singers; all the music teachers played in the pit orchestra.
The final curtain fell just 19 days before the first concert.
Exhilarated but exhausted, they pivoted immediately to Candlelight.
And — because of the way the calendar fell this year — they had one less week than usual to do it.
Meanwhile, Orphenians — one of the concert’s centerpieces — entered their busiest time of the year. They sing at the Town Hall tree lighting, Holiday Stroll, and for organizations all over Westport.
Every adult and young person involved in Candlelight was pulled a thousand different ways, these past few weeks.
But they — along with others who handled sound and lighting, plus tremendous volunteers from the Staples Music Parents Association — pulled together.
I can’t imagine the effort it took. I do know that for all who were fortunate enough to be there, the results were well worth it.
So to townwide arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman; directors Jeri Brima, Carrie Mascaro, Kevin Mazzarella, Lauren Pine, Caitlin Serpliss and Mary Gardner; every young musician, and everyone else who had a hand in the 2025 Candlelight Concert: Bravo!
You are this week’s Unsung Heroes.
Although this week, “unsung” is definitely not the right world to use!
From left: Carrie Mascaro, Caitlin Serpliss, Kevin Mazzarella, Jeri Brima, Lauren Pine. (Photos/Dan Woog)
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
The Board of Selectmen invites all residents to join them for an informal community conversation this afternoon (Wednesday, 3 p.m., Town Hall Room 201/201A).
It’s the first in an ongoing series. The goal is to provide “an open, welcoming space for residents to stop by, ask questions, share thoughts, and raise topics of interest related to town government.”
Speaking of local businesses, Chris Grimm writes: “You would think, given that their clients are largely sick and old, Walgreens would clear their parking lot of snow.”
The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit opened last night, at the Westport Country Playhouse barn.
Interestingly, all works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.
The show runs through Sunday (December 21, noon to 4 p.m.).
Admiring some of the dozens of 12×12 pieces.
The pianist at last night’s Artists Collective opening was not some random guy. It was Mark Naftalin: founding member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and Westport resident. (Photos/Susan Garment)
Like many trail and ultra runners, Jes Parker loves and appreciates the outdoors.
Yet, she knows, runners often engage in behaviors that are not exactly environmentally sound.
Long distance runners, for example, experiment often with gear. Before finding what’s comfortable or works well, they’ve missed return dates, snagged the fabric or others made items non-returnable.
But wait! Don’t throw them out!
Jes — a Westport resident — is building a business that keeps trail running goods, and other running synthetics, out of landfills.
At the same time, it makes the sport more accessible.
Take2Trail — Parker’s brainstorm (and a great, clever name) — buys those items. She then resells them, at a deep discount.
Parker knows that buying and selling on internet peer-to-peer sites can be unfulfilling. Items are strategically photographed to hide warts; they’re not always delivered; meet-up exchanges fall through.
People hyper-focused on their fitness, family — and full-time jobs — don’t have the time or patience to jump through hoops to keep things out of landfills (or even take them to Goodwill).
Take2Trail a great idea. Fleet Foot owner Dave Wright has helped too, donating some return inventory and other sunk cost items.
The 2022 Staples High School graduate, and current senior soccer player at Johns Hopkins University, has been named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-America team.
Coleman — a neuroscience major with a 3.95 GPA — is also an All-Centennial Conference 2nd team pick.
He was named to the Allstate NACDA Good Works team for fall sports, for his efforts as president and fundraising chair of Baltimore Scores in STEM. The mentorship program supports local youth pursuing STEM education.
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Staples High School Class of 1963 graduate Sam Pair has published “Le Yankee Noir: The Power of Acceptance.”
The write-up on Amazon says: “In the global aviation industry, where building cross-cultural relationships is essential, cultural gaps and accepting others unlike ourselves remain issues.
“A veteran aerospace engineer with vast experience with inter-cultural bridge building, Samuel E. Pair has created a book that illuminates the value of acceptance and its influence on creating the climate for building trusting cross-cultural relationships.
“The culmination of a frustrating career journey — still healing after multiple rejections to his quest to enter a prominent management development program, an African American aerospace engineer is surprisingly summoned to the south of France in 1994 by French aircraft industry leaders.
“Tasked with managing the oversight of the recovery of a floundering new jet propulsion program for intensely anticipated jet liners, his reflection on the experiences of interacting with French and other nationalities on-site, explores the power of mutual acceptance and its influence on inspiring, motivating and propelling him through a myriad of formidable issues and a life threating condition.
“While ruminating about the significant events and consequential happenings during this twelve-year period, he is drawn to the factors that promoted his transformation, the ability to build relational bridges over cultural divides and contributed to his success. He shares them in this book.”
And finally … in honor (sort of) of Jes Parker’s excellent idea for reusing running gear:
(Where would you be without “06880” telling you there will soon be a new Pilates place in town? If you enjoy news like that — and much more — please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thanks!)
If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.
You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.
They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.
Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s.
Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!
Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.
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Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?
Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?
Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.
The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.
The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.
At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.
Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.
Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.
His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.
Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.
Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.
But that’s not all.
Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).
A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).
“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.
Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.
Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?
Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:
“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.
“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.
“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.
“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.
“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.
This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).
Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.
Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.
A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.
Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.
She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.
Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.
Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.
She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.
Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.
Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.
A few more images, from this weekend’s spectacular Candlelight Concert.
The concert begins.
The view from the stage, before the “Hallelujah Chorus.”
Alumni join current singers for the finale. (All photos/Dan Woog)
The audience rises, as the orchestra, band and choral groups — joined by alumni singers — perform the “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Jennifer Petrosinelli)
The Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s ambulances get a lot of use. They save thousands of lives.
Now, some of those lives will be saved in a state-of-the-art, fully stocked new one.
This past week, the Westport Woman’s Club donated a brand new ambulance to WVEMS.
Funds came from a $150,000 donation to the WWC from the Lea Ruegg Foundation, and additional contributions by the Woman’s Club.
Westport Woman’s Club past president Karen Kleine hands ambulance keys to Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris. Looking on are WWC member Donna Richardson, and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.
The near-half-million dollar project took 3 years to complete, including designing and building.
“The custom ambulance — nicknamed ‘Lea’ — will replace one of our 10+ year-old current ambulances,” says Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris.
“We’re blessed to have the Westport Woman’s Club as both our neighbors and supporters, and so, too, all of our EMTs and the patients we’ll help.”
HUGE thanks to the Westport Woman’s Club. But did you know that Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service pays for all their equipment they use to help all of us — from ambulances down to Band-Aids?
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Since graduating from Staples High School in 1999 — as the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year — Kyle Martino has done many things.
He earned MLS Rookie of the Year honors, played alongside David Beckham, and made 8 appearances with the US men’s national team.
He was an NBC Sports analyst for the Premier League, and ran for US Soccer president.
Now Martino — who recently moved back to Westport — is a staunch advocate for bringing soccer to underserved communities and neighborhoods around the country.
He’s got a staunch ally: New York City’s next mayor, Zohran Mamdani. (He’s a huge soccer fan — and former player — himself. Click here for a cool story.)
The other day, Martino and Mamdani chatted about the city’s role in the world game — from access to all, to the upcoming World Cup. It was an intriguing discussion. Click here or below to listen in.
What’s better than the weekly Westport Farmers’ Market?
Two in a week!
Today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center) is their annual Holiday Artist Market.
Over 30 local vendors — jewelers, woodworkers, potters — offer handcrafted gifts.
There’s coffee, carolers and more.
Including, of course, the usual farm favorites.
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Westport’s annual Holiday Giving Program supported more than 80 households and 154 children last year.
This year the need is greater: 167 children from over 90 households qualify for support.
Many Westport families struggle quietly with job loss, rising living costs, and unexpected hardships.
Many local parents work 2 jobs, while caring for young children without reliable childcare. After rent, utilities, babysitting and medical expenses, there is often nothing left for presents.
The Family-to-Family Holiday Giving Program provides modest gift cards that allow parents to choose gifts, and bring comfort and joy back into their homes.
Longtime Westport resident Hymie Malbin died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by his family. He was 98 years old.
At age 2, the native of Poland emigrated with his family to South Africa. Though he did not finish high school, his lack of formal education did not preclude his success.
Most family members still in Poland were killed in the Holocaust. Hymie joined the South African Zionist movement. In 1948 he joined volunteers and war refugees bound for the new state of Israel, a defining chapter in his life. Years later, on the 50th anniversary of Israel’s independence, he was honored by the IDF.
Hymie returned home to South Africa. In 1958 he founded a brassiere company, Charmfit. It expanded into companies that manufactured lingerie, dresses, handbags, leather goods and plastics, and became the largest toy manufacturer in South Africa. Charmfit went public in 1968.
In the late 1970s Hymie and his wife Marge made the difficult decision to emigrate to London, then several years later to Westport where their children and grandchildren thrived.
Their home was an anchor, welcoming friends and family from around the world.
While Hymie formally retired in his 50s, he never stopped working. He developed interests in real estate, building and flipping homes, and was actively engaged in the markets.
He learned to sculpt, and was an avid bridge and tennis player and golfer, and swam into his 90s.
Hymie is survived by Marge, his wife of 75 years; daughters Rochelle Malbin and Hazel Malbin Shulman (Stephen), son Peter, and grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Jonathan Malbin.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Leigh Gage. She spotted this “large German shepherd-sized” creature mid-afternoon yesterday, on Manitou Road.
And finally … in honor of that amazing Eartha Kitt/Kitt Shapiro/Joan Javits/ WEST story (above):
(Joan Javits didn’t write it, so we will: “Santa baby, bring me readers who will click this link, and donate to this blog, wink wink … Of course, all the elves at “06880” thank you!)
A little more brass and percussion in “Sing We Noel.”
Classical works, longtime favorites, plus selections from around the world, played and sung with skill, passion and joy.
Staples High School’s 85th annual Candlelight Concert — the first of 3 weekend shows — thrilled and inspired a full house last night.
As always, it was the Music Department’s gift to the town.
As always, it was the greatest gift of the holiday season.
“06880” photographer Lynn Untermeyer Miller — a former Candlelight Concert performer herself — shares these images, from a night of wonder.
Staples Class of 1961 graduate Lucy Weberling (above) and her sister Janet (SHS ’63) traveled from Oklahoma, just for this year’s Candlelight Concert. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Longtime Candlelight stalwarts: former Staples principal John Dodig, and Jackie-of-all-trades Alice Addicks.
Directors (from left) Carrie Mascaro (orchestra), Caitlin Serpliss an Kevin Mazzarella (band), Jeri Brima (orchestra) and Lauren Pine (choral), after the “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Dan Woog)
(All photos/Lynn Untermeyer Miller unless otherwise noted)
Staples Orphenians are synonymous with the holiday season.
The high school’s elite a cappella group — fresh off performances at Radio City Music Hall and Westport’s Holiday Stroll — have added another date to their crowded calendar.
And it’s a chance to not only hear their great caroling, but to shop for gifts from local vendors too.
The Orphenians Holiday Market is next Tuesday (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
Along with shopping and songs (including a sing-along, sponsored by Mitchells of Westport), enjoy seasonal treats and festive foods from The Granola Bar, Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci, and Ed’s Fusion.
Click here for tickets. Proceeds help fund performance and travel opportunities throughout the year.
Direct from Radio City and the “06880” Holiday Stroll: Staples Orphenians.
Vaccines are all over the news. The most recent headlines involve hepatitis B, for newborns.
Village Pediatrics strongly recommends protecting newborns, with the inoculation.
Dr. Nicole Gorman and her colleagues say:
“Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause lifelong liver disease, liver cancer, and even death. Newborns are especially vulnerable. If exposed, 9 out of 10 infants will develop chronic infection. The birth dose provides protection right away, before any potential exposures occur.
“It’s also important to know that a negative Hep B test in the mother does not guarantee a baby won’t be exposed. In fact, up to 50% of hepatitis B cases in children have no known source.
“This happens because the virus can survive on surfaces for up to 7 days, meaning exposure can occur in unexpected ways — from contact with caregivers, household items, or environments outside the hospital.
“This vaccine has been used safely for decades. It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and all major medical organizations. Giving it shortly after birth is the most effective way to prevent infection.
“We encourage all families to include the Hep B birth dose in their baby’s routine care.”
Dr. Nikki notes, “I was always struck by the statistic that 50% of children who get Hep B can’t trace the source. Everyone should elect for this vaccine in the hospital at birth.”
Dr. Stephen Grevious adds, “Once someone has it, it can’t be eliminated.”
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have announced the winners of their photo contest. It was open to members, their wives, and Senior Center participants.
Here are the first place honorees, followed by the runners-up, in all 8 categories:
Architecture: Alan Zimbard, Holly Betts
Critter: Robert Pravder, Bob Weingarten
General: Lee Walther, Jean-Piere Montillier
Landscape: Jean-Piere Montillier, Ed Simek
Manipulated: Susan Garment, Jeffrey Rothman
Nature: Jeffrey Rothman, Greg Battersby
Portrait: Lee Walther, Karen Harman
Waterscape: Michael Hehenberger, Jeffrey Rothman.
Those images — and all others that were entered — are now on display at the Senior Center.
Susan Garment won 1st place in the “Manipulate” category for “Trafalgar Square in the Rain.”
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Check out the newest addition at Sherwood Mill Pond:
(Photo/Matt Murray)
No, it’s not new affordable housing.
It’s an office and storage area for workers on the tidal gates and pedestrian path renovation project.
But if it was housing — those are quite some water views.
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Everyone loves Christmas decorations.
Even those who don’t celebrate the holiday.
Celia Campbell-Mohn captured this cute image, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally …on this date in 1864, Major General William Tecumseh Sherman’s Union Army troops reached the outer Confederate defenses of Savannah, Georgia.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and where history lives on. If you enjoy our daily Roundups — including our music — or any other part of “06880,” please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Recently, “06880” introduced a new feature. “Students Speak” gives Westport students a voice on any issue important to their lives.
Will Enquist
Today, Will Enquist looks at Staples High School’s “cellphone ban.” It actually includes more than phones.
A Staples High School senior, managing editor of Inklings, and a member of both the Westport Youth Commission and “06880” board, he enjoys reading the Wall Street Journal, and watching the New England Patriots “slowly regain relevance.”
He plans to major in political science, and contribute to his college’s newspaper. Will writes:
As I took refuge from a chill fall breeze inside the warm halls of Staples High on November 5, I was greeted with a sight unseen over the past decade: Not a single student was using their cell phone.
On that day a “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban, first proposed by Superintendent Scarice and later approved by the Board of Education, was implemented.
Despite the student body’s fervor in the days leading up to the phone ban, my Wednesday was rather typical. Like many Staples students, my phone has never really been a distraction in class. However, during my lunch period I first noticed one of its unintended consequences.
As I sat down in the library, I put in my AirPods – equipped with noise cancellation – to block out the buzz during lunch, a volume comparable to Madison Square Garden during the NBA playoffs.
I was 90 seconds into Beethoven’s 6th Symphony and my calculus homework when a faculty member politely asked that I remove my wireless headphones.
I was suddenly reminded of one of the less reasonable stipulations of the ban: In addition to cellphones and smartwatches, students are prohibited from using wireless headphones during the school day.
Interestingly, it is this aspect of the policy — the ban on widely popular wireless headphones like AirPods — that has spurred the most criticism. Students and teachers alike express confusion about why devices that often complement or enhance learning have been strictly forbidden.
Before I continue, I should note that I am a supporter of the phone ban. I believe the superintendent and Staples administration have pursued it with every intention of improving school culture, focus and academic achievement.
However, I believe prohibiting the use of wireless headphones is a significant misstep in the design of the policy.
The administration’s central argument for banning wireless headphones, as I understand it, is that students who might still have their phones on them (in violation of the new policy) could use their headphones to have incoming notifications read to them.
This is not consistent with how I know Staples students to use wireless headphones. Before the ban headphones were most often used for listening to music, canceling out distracting background noise, and listening to teacher-assigned videos or podcasts – all legitimate uses of the technology that support learning.
I have never known of a student using wireless headphones to secretly receive notifications, especially considering that responding to any notification would require verbally dictating a message into their headphones, something immediately apparent to any teacher.
The misuse the policy aims to prevent appears far less common than the productive and legitimate uses it now restricts.
The ability to watch educational videos, listen to music, and cut out distracting ambient noise has been vital to my productivity during school hours and, by extension, my academic success.
Shortly after learning about the new restrictions on wireless headphones, I began researching wired alternatives with active noise cancellation. However, most headphones advertised as “wired” with noise-canceling capabilities are expensive wireless models that include a wired option.
While my summer job may equip me with the means to afford this option, it feels awfully wasteful and fiscally irresponsible to squander that money when I already own perfectly good AirPod Pros that the policy now restricts.
Ultimately, the goal of the phone ban is one I genuinely support: create a school environment where students are more focused on and connected to their classroom community.
For the phone ban to be effective, however, it must accurately differentiate between tools that detract from learning and those that support it. For the vast majority of students, wireless headphones fall into the latter category.
(To submit a “Student Speaks” — or for questions about this feature — email 06880blog@gmail.com. We will work with students to help craft their story. Anonymity, if requested, is assured.)
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Westporters of all ages celebrated the season Friday, at Wakeman Town Farm’s annual holiday tree lighting.
The event included Staples High School’s jazz duo, On the Count of Two; musicians from Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary Schools; Staples band members, and goodies from The Granola Bar and Sweet P Bakery.
The main attraction saw 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and Bill Constantino — a Wakeman family member — keep a generations-old tradition alive.
Many attendees donated diapers, toys and food, for neighbors in need.
And finally … Harry Chapin was born on this date, in 1942. The singer-songwriter/philanthropist and hunger activist died in an automobile accident on the Long Island Expressway. He was 38.
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I was suddenly reminded of one of the less reasonable stipulations of the ban: In addition to cellphones and smartwatches, students are prohibited from using wireless headphones during the school day.
I have never known of a student using wireless headphones to secretly receive notifications, especially considering that responding to any notification would require verbally dictating a message into their headphones, something immediately apparent to any teacher.
