Tag Archives: artificial intelligence

Roundup: School Calendar, Ceci Maher, AI App Widget …

Posted on March 6, 2026 | Leave a comment

A few tweaks are coming to the school calendar.

But there will be no changes to April vacation.

Unless — uh oh — there are any more cancellations between now and then.

Last night, the Board of Education approved superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice’s recommendations to adjust dates, based on recent weather-related closures.

The school year will now end on Thursday, June 18. 

Friday, March 20 will now be a regular school day. It had been scheduled for professional development.

The student calendar will be reduced from 182 to 180 days.

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Westport’s delegation in Hartford will look very different next year.

State Representative Jonathan Steinberg announced in January that he would not seek re-election this fall.

Yesterday, State Senator Ceci Maher said the same.

As first reported by “Good Morning Wilton,” the 26th District legislator — who represents Westport, Weston and 6 other towns — said her decision “reflects both personal priorities and a broader belief that public leadership should make space for the next generation.”

She said, “As a boomer, it’s time to get out of the way,” she said.

“I love the job, so it’s hard not to run again, not to legislate again, not to be out in the wider community again. But I really believe if we run just because we can, it keeps the stopper in the system. My belief is the next generation needs to be in it and needs to be learning how to do this.”

Maher is 72 years old. She has 2 grandchildren, with a third on the way. She looks forward to gardening, mentoring and more.

This is her 2nd term. She succeeded Will Haskell, a 2-term senator from Westport.

Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

State Senator Ceci Maher

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Great news for “06880” app users: Our AI widget is now available on that platform too.

The widget — developed by Westport-based ThoughtPartnr, and rolled out on our desktop, laptop and mobile sites last month, and located on the upper right of any page — allows users to ask questions about all 17 years of “06880” content, AI-style.

It takes some getting used to. Typing in a name (as in a Google search) is less effective than a question (“Why was the Hamlet plan rejected?”).

The widget is learning too. It gets better, as more readers engage with it.

On the “06880” app (available for iPhones and Androids), the widget button is the furthest left button (AI “stars” icon) at the bottom:

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Alisyn Camerota — the former CNN anchor and Westport resident — is used to interviewing prominent political figures.

Joe Walsh — the Tea Party co-founder who is now an ardent anti-Trumper, and a Democrat — is one of those figures.

But when the pair got together — remotely — for Camerota’s Substack podcast, the topic was “grief.”

The journalist and politician spoke candidly and movingly about Camerota’s 19-month journey, after the death of her husband Tim Lewis to pancreatic cancer.

Walsh has a lot to say about the state of our nation, and Camerota has drawn him — and many others — out about it.

This is a very different interview. Click here for the link.

Screenshot: Joe Walsh and Alisyn Camerota.

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Staples student-athletes get plenty of recognition.

But Staples teacher-athletes are no slouches, either.

Congratulations to Dr. Wole Ogunkoya. The social studies instructor (and girls track and field assistant coach) is a national champion!

He earned a gold medal in the  men’s 45-49-year-old long jump at USATF Masters Indoor Track & Field Championships last month in Albuquerque.

Dr. Ogunkoya is truly a “master” athlete — and teacher.

Dr. Wole Ogunkoya

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Speaking of track and field: The Joggers Club is warming up for spring.

Their Kid’s Run Club — for kindergarten through 8th grade — meets every Sunday from April 5 through June 7, from 4 to 5:15 p.m. at the Staples track.

Eight coaches lead youngsters — of all abilities — in meets, games and relays. (There’s also an ice cream truck). The price is $199 until March 15; then $250. There is a maximum of 100 participants.

The Joggers Club’s run club of adults meets every Saturday at 8 a.m., at Compo Beach.

There are short runs, long runs, and everything in between. The post-run fun is catered by Village Bagels, with coffee from McDonalds. The cost is $50 — and new members get a free Lululemon shirt (value $58).

Click here for details and registration.

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Speaking of running: For the second year, Westport’s Positive Directions has been selected as a charity partner for the New York Marathon.

Runners who are not drawn from the bib lottery can apply to run for Positive Directions (and pledge to raise a minimum of $3,500).

Last year, 3 PD runners raised over $19,000.

100% of funds support Positive Directions’ mission to support individuals and families in need, and to de-stigmatize and foster mental well being through individual and group therapy, community prevention, and recovery assistance

Click here to learn how to support Team Positive Directions.

New York Road Runners CEO (and Westport resident) Rob Simmelkjaer (3rd from left) with Gianna Alfi, Brian McGarvey and Cam Gaylord. They ran the NY Marathon last year, for Positive Directions.

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Brian McGarvey and former Staples High School track star Cam Gaylord — both Westport residents — and Gianna Affi

Speaking still of sports: Oscar Edelman — the Westport native and Greens Farms Academy graduate — has had an excellent season for the Wesleyan University basketball team.

The sophomore — a 6-8 starting center — helped lead the Cardinals to a #1 New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) ranking. They open NCAA Division III tournament play tonight (Friday, 6:15) at home vs. Lehman.

Oscar Edelman (Photo/Steve McLaughlin)

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State comptroller Sean Scanlon gave an informative presentation yesterday, to business owners and others interested in Connecticut finances.

The event, at the Westport Library, was part of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce “Your State – Your Business speaker series.

Scanlon discussed his role as the state’s primary financial watchdog, the rainy day fund, state pension obligations, and financial issues that impact business owners and residents (rising utilities costs, healthcare, taxes and more).

The comptroller noted his experience as CEO of Tweed New Haven, and as a legislator, in the context of transportation and commuting.

The “Your State – Your Business” series continues March 19th (Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, 11 a.m.) and April 2 (Attorney General William Tong).  Click here for more information. 

State comptroller Sean Scanlon, and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell.

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The Blondinit wishes “Chag Sameach” to its customers — and offers a special Passover menu.

Dishes range from matzo ball soup and salatim to Mediterranean chicken, brisket and pistachio-crusted black sea bass. Options include à la carte trays, or packages for 4–6 or 8–12 guests.

Orders must be placed by March 27. Kosher for Passover wines are available for pickup or delivery. A limited kosher menu is available to dine in, April 1-8.

To order: Click here, call 203-557-3277, or email catering@theblondinit.com.

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The newest addition to the Levitt Pavilion’s 2026 lineup is Andy Frasco & the UN and Kitchen Dwellers.

They bring “a wildly eclectic approach (to) navigating funk, jazz, surf rock, blues, swing, gospel, reggae, exotica, and more with horn-blasted positivity and soulful power.”

The opening act is Magoo.

The show is August 23. Tickets go on sale today (Friday), at 10 a.m. Click here to purchase, and for more information.. $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the artists’ partner charity, Backline Care (offering mental health and wellness resources for music industry professionals and their families).

Levitt Pavilion (Photo/Alex O’Brien)

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Reeds along the Longshore exit road offer a hint of spring, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo:

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally … in honor of Dr. Wole Ogunkoya’s gold medal (story above):

(You don’t have to run — or even walk — anywhere to support “06880.” Just click here. We will very quickly thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Matteo Bocelli, Jake Sussman, David Pogue …

Posted on February 11, 2026 | 1 comment

Thanks to all who have tried our new “06880” AI widget.

We introduced it yesterday. Several hundred readers clicked on the box, to explore 17 years of blog posts.

Missed the story? Click here. And where is the widget? Top right, on the home page. (Sorry, it’s not yet available on the app.)

Some people were excited by the deep-dive results. Some were not.

Remember: Using artificial intelligence is different from clicking on our archive box.

A regular search engine will look for all references to whatever you type in. That’s fine if you want, say, a list of stories that contain, say, “Long Lots Elementary School” or “Kevin Christie.”

Our AI widget does much more. But only if it understands your prompt.

You’re better off saying, “What were the main arguments for and against renovating Long Lots Elementary School?”

Or “What promises did Kevin Christie make during the 2026 first selectman race?”

Think of the AI widget as a conversation partner. You wouldn’t simply ask someone, “Jen Tooker?” would you?

(Unless you thought you were meeting the former 1st selectwoman, but were not sure.)

It takes some getting used to.

And the “06880” widget is getting used to our readers too.

Stick with it. Work with it. Learn from it. The results will be worth it.

PS: The old “archives” box is still there, where it always was: on the right side, halfway down. Just type in general search keywords — “Long Lots Elementary School,” say — and you’ll get all those exact matches.

Here’s where to find our new “06880” widget.

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Sure, the Levitt Pavilion — and everything else here — is covered with snow.

But eventually, we’ll be outdoors, in lawn chairs, listening to …

Matteo Bocelli.

The Italian singer — and son of tenor Andrea Bocelli — will step on the Westport stage July 10. It’s part of his “Falling in Love” world tour.

Member tickets went on sale yesterday. The public sale begins at 10 a.m. Friday (February 13).

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the Levitt reminds everyone: Tickets to Bocelli “are certainly romance-infused.”

As for presents: A Pavilion gift card can be used toward any paid ticket shows, as well as membership.

The season runs from late May to mid-October. It includes several paid-ticket events, along with over 50 free shows. (Hat tip: Karen Como)

Matteo Bocelli

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Jake Sussman knows something about smart kids, and learning disabilities.

The Westport native — who struggled mightily with ADHD before graduating from the Forman School, then the University of Hartford — ultimately learned to advocate for himself.

Now, as co-founder (with his brother Max) and president of Superpower Mentors, he connects men and women who have gone on the same journey he did, with people who are just learning how to cope with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other learning differences.

Jake’s advocacy continues on February 28, at Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities Inc.’s 8th annual Parent Conference

He’ll be part of the daylong conference at Fairfield University). It provides parents and educators with hands-on resources to help children
with learning and attention differences succeed.

The schedule includes round-table sessions, panel discussions, exhibitors, and opportunities to speak with private school administrators, tutors, and businesses that focus on assistance for children with learning difficulties.

For information on the conference and how to register, click here.

Jake Sussman

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David Pogue no longer lives in Westport.

But the “CBS Sunday Morning” correspondent, “Nova” host, best-selling author– and so much more — still has many friends here.

They’ll be glad to know that — 12 years after he stopped writing his very informative New York Times tech column — he’s back on that beat.

With Substack.

Pogue’s first piece is headlined “Dammit! Tesla’s Self-Driving Has Gotten Amazing. Just kind of wish the tech came from a better company.”

It’s a great look inside recent advances in this aspect of the auto industry. (Spoiler alert: You’re no longer likely to die.)

Near the end, Pogue poses a series of questions I’ve never seen anywhere else:

What happens to car insurance when people aren’t driving? What happens to driver’s ed and driver’s licenses, when even a 12-year-old can hail a self-driving taxi? What happens to car ownership when it no longer makes economic sense?

When only a fraction as many people own cars, will they convert their garages to living space? What happens to parking lots? Will the layout of cities change?

His Substack is free. There are no ads or paywall — just David Pogue, at his best.

Click here to read the full piece (and subscribe).

David Pogue

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A large crowd enjoyed the Westport Country Playhouse’s February Script in Hand offering on Monday.

The 1-person performance of “The Goldsmith” was all about Sharone Sayegh. The Broadway actor wrote the script, and played various family member roles in the sentimentally humorous show about her Iraqi/Israeli family, who emigrated to Los Angeles.

Actor Sharone Sayegh (front, center) with (from left) director Zachary Prince, Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan and stage manager Jinghong Zhu. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Speaking of theater: The Y’s Women went “backstage” on Monday.

Kevin Connors — executive artistic director of Music Theater of Connecticut — described the power of lighting and projection to touch an audience, change a mood and impact a play.

“Theater is not just observed” at MTC, he said. “You are right in the middle of it.”

Kevin Connors, at the Y’s Women meeting. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)

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Westport Museum of History & Culture executive director Ramin Ganeshram is also a food writer. Her book The General’s Cook: A Novel is about Hercules Posey, the African-American chef enslaved by George Washington who self-emancipated in 1797.

On Monday the New York Times published her piece about cherry bounce, titled “This George Washington Story Is Actually True.”

The subhead says: “While tales of his copping to chopping a cherry tree were just lore, the nation’s first president did partake of this cherry drink.” Click here to read the story (with a link to the recipe.) (Hat tip: Tom Prince)

(Graphic/Luke Wohlgemuth for the New York Times)

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We’ve featured plenty of fine feathered friends, in our “Westport … Naturally” daily post.

But we may never have seen as close a close-up as this:

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … in honor of George Washington and his love for cherry drinks:

(It’s Roundup time! Then again, it is every day right around now. “06880” is here for you: 24/7/365. Please click here to help sustain our work. Thank you all …)

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Scarice Update: Weather, Strategic Plan, AI, Screen Time …

Posted on February 2, 2026 | Leave a comment

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice sends this update:

We have crossed the mid-point of the school year and our February Recess is just a couple of weeks away.

Winter Weather Decisions

It looks like we dodged a major blizzard this weekend. That said, our consulting meteorologist is predicting a series of storms and continued cold temperatures throughout February. Sorry to be the bearer of that news!

Since this is the time of year when weather decisions tend to come up a lot, I wanted to share a bit about how those calls are made. When conditions require a delay or closure, I do my best to make a final decision by 5:30 a.m. This typically follows an early morning regional call between 4 and 4:30 with area superintendents and our consulting meteorologist (the entire region uses the same service).

Whenever possible I make the decision the night before, though that’s relatively rare as weather has a habit of changing its mind overnight. Many factors go into these decisions, including temperature differences across town, conditions from the northern side of town to southern side, and coordination with the town on road clearing.

February break may spare us at least one winter weather decision, but early forecasts suggest we may still be looking at snow on the ground well into March. Seems like the groundhog and meteorologists are on the same page…and winter is in no hurry to leave.

As always, thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate an old-fashioned New England winter together.

Snow day!

District Strategic Plan

Since the presentation of our AI Strategic Plan in November, several initiatives are now underway. All of this work is grounded in our commitment to being “AI-Powered and Human-Centered,” using technology thoughtfully while keeping students, learning, and well-being at the center.

Our guiding approach is simple: Go slow to go fast. Rather than rushing new tools or expectations into classrooms, we are intentionally establishing ethical guardrails, clear expectations, and thoughtful preparation first. This allows us to support students and faculty responsibly, protect privacy, and maintain high academic standards as technology continues to evolve.

Several important foundations are already in place:

Below are several key areas of work now underway.

AI Literacy for Students

Work has begun to develop a clear, developmentally appropriate K–12 approach to AI literacy for students, along with defined competencies for staff. Expectations and access will vary across elementary, middle and high school levels to ensure appropriate and responsible use at each stage of development.

The goal of this work is to ensure that students understand how AI systems actually work, as well as their benefits and limitations. By building this foundational knowledge, students will be better equipped to think critically about AI, recognize potential challenges, including overreliance or emotional dependence, and use emerging technologies thoughtfully, ethically, and responsibly as part of their learning.

Academic Integrity

As generative AI tools become more common, the district is revisiting its Academic Integrity Policy, particularly for our middle and high school level, to ensure expectations for original thinking, effort, and learning remain clear and meaningful. This work is focused on preserving strong academic standards while helping students navigate new tools responsibly.

Future-Proofing and AI Trends

The district has also begun work to monitor emerging AI trends and engage community expertise. This proactive effort is intended to help us anticipate where technology may be headed and prepare thoughtfully, rather than respond reactively. Our goal is to host our first school/community “AI Trends Group” meeting in late March.

Screen Time Audit

When we developed our Strategic Plan we used a number of “essential questions” to help frame our thinking. One such question was, “How do we maximize the power of AI and minimize screen time?”  That led to the development of an initiative that would audit screen time in our schools.

In support of our student strategic objective, “Preparing Students to Think, Adapt, and Lead with AI,” the district is conducting a screen time audit to better understand how technology use intersects with learning, well-being, and instructional design.

This audit is intentionally being conducted through multiple lenses to ensure a balanced and accurate picture:

  1. Surveys of students, teachers, and families to gather perceptions and  experiences related to screen time (the parent guardian survey will be administered after the February Recess.
  2. A review of curriculum and instructional practices to examine the amount of screen time required by our curriculum and instructional methods.
  3. An analysis of overall network usage patterns at the elementary and middle school levels to help quantify screen time in the aggregate. The district will use network tools, such as GoGuardian, to collect high-level, quantitative information about screen time. Because Staples High School operates under a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) model, this analysis will not be conducted at the high school level.

Importantly, this work is not intended to monitor or evaluate individual students or staff. The purpose of the audit is to inform thoughtful decision-making about instructional balance, technology use, and student well-being.  In addition, this audit will help set a baseline for future studies on the topic of screen time.

Supporting Educators and Responsible Tool Use

Professional learning for educators continues to be aligned with the district’s AI vision and Code of Ethics. This ensures that any use of AI or digital tools in classrooms is intentional, ethical, and focused on supporting, not replacing, strong teaching and learning by our faculty.

Access to AI tools for staff remains controlled and supported, with broader access planned for next year alongside clear expectations, training, and ethical oversight.

I recognize that AI, technology use, and screen time raise important questions for families. My commitment is to continue moving deliberately, communicating transparently, and keeping students’ best interests at the center of every decision. I will continue to provide updates in manageable ways as this work progresses.

Thank you for your trust and partnership as we maneuver this evolving landscape together.

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Roundup: Hillandale Home, Restaurant Offers, Public Meetings …

Posted on December 23, 2025 | 1 comment

Westporters have long admired the classic New England home-and-attached-barn on Hillandale Road, just down the hill from Green’s Farms Church.

Now House & Garden readers around the world can enjoy it too.

Anne Hardy — who with her husband Jim transformed the home, linking a former blacksmith’s forge to a 19th-century wagon barn — has written about the project for the magazine (which she once served as decorating editor).

Anne — a Staples High School graduate — describes how her years in London influenced the home’s design (with great help from architect Deirdre O’Farrelly). She details the family’s Christmas (and Boxing Day) preparations in the warm, welcoming space.

Of course, there are plenty of pictures to show every aspect of the property. Click here to read, and take your own tour. (Hat tip: Suzanne Sherman Propp)

Anne Hardy’s living room — with roaring fire — decorated for Christmas. (Photo/Christopher Horwood for House & Garden)

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Basso is closed.

But you can keep a bit of their bar.

You’ll have to act fast, though.

An “Everything Must Go!” sale is set for today (Tuesday, 4 to 7 p.m.).

Champagnes, spirits, and their carefully curated selection of wines will all be sold — at 30% below Basso’s cost.

Stock up for the holidays! (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Speaking of restaurants: Dandelion — the hot new spot in the Delamar Westport — celebrates the season with some big events.

On Christmas Eve, a holiday-inspired à la carte lunch (noon to 2:30 p.m.) is followed by à la carte dinner service (5 to 10 p.m.), highlighting Christmas selections.

Christmas day brings a 3-course prix fixe menu (noon to 6:30 p.m.). Click here for reservations, or call 203-266-3111.

New Year’s Eve features DJ Omary. From 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., he’ll spin Afro-house, traditional rhythms, and familiar favorites. Click here for tickets.

Dandelion restaurant.

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Among the appropriations up for approval on the Board of Finance January 7 meeting (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium):

  • $330,000 to address an IT storage replacement initiative.
  • $815,000 for Town Hall ADA improvements.
  • $275,000 for an ADA-accessible ramp between the Imperial Avenue parking lot and the Levitt Pavilion lot.
  • $31,500 for emergency elevator repair at Town Hall.
  • $65,027.49 for a 2024 Chevrolet work truck to replace a 2008 model; the same amount for a dump truck, to replace one from 1999.

The Board of Finance will meet in Town Hall, to make the building more accessible.

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That’s a short meeting, compared to what the Board of Education has planned.

They’ll meet at Saugatuck Congregational Church on January 9, starting at 8:30 a.m.

It’s an all-day work session, to review superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice’s fiscal year 2027 budget.

The public is invited. Bring your lunch!

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A few weeks ago, superintendent Scarice participated in a podcast focused on the Westport Public Schools’ strategic plan, specifically its work being “AI-powered and human-centered.”

The podcast is available on Spotify (click here) and YouTube (click here).


Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Looking for a kids’ activity over the holiday break?

The Westport Garden Club is partnering with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, town poet laureate and Westport Library to sponsor a youth poetry contest.

Affiliated with the National Garden Club, it’s open to all in kindergarten through 12th grade: public and private schools, home-schooled, special education and English as a Second Language students.

This is the fourth year the WGC is sponsoring the event. Past winners have advanced to state, regional and national levels.

The theme for the competition is: “Plant America for the next 100 years.” The deadline is January 12. For more information, click here and scroll down.

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Starting yesterday, days will once again get longer. We made it!

On Saturday — the eve of the longest night — Patricia Auber captured this “Westport … Naturally” sunset at Burying Hill Beach:

(Photo/Patricia Auber)

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And finally … speaking of Christmas or New Year’s at Dandelion:

(As you make holiday plans — and plan your year-end giving — please consider “06880.” We’re here for you 24/7/365, but we rely on reader support. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Candidate Forums, Candidate Signs, AI & Us …

Posted on October 12, 2025 | 5 comments

Early voting starts a week from tomorrow (Monday, October 20).

Unsure who to vote for? Clueless about the candidates?

Two events this week can help.

On Tuesday (October 14, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall) the 3 candidates for 1st selectman will answer questions (from moderators and the audience) on stage. The League of Women Voters Westport and Westport Youth Commission are sponsors. This is a special event for students, but adults are invited.

On Wednesday (October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center) the LWV sponsors “A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates.”

This Thursday (October 16, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy), Westport Journal is sponsoring a 1st Selectman candidates debate. Registration is required; click here. 

Coming soon:

  • Select Board Candidates Debate: October 21, 12 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
  • A Seat at the Selectman’s Table: October 21, 6 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Library Common Ground Initiative. Registration required; click here. 
  • A Conversation with Board of Education Candidates: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
  • A Conversation with Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates: October 23; 7 p.m. Senior Center. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
  • Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
  • Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport. 

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Speaking of voting, Lynn Flint writes:

“Someone banged on my door around midday today, a man I did not recognize. I ignored the pounding. He left after a while, but he left a brochure. I’m guessing it was for a campaign.

“I can’t reach it to read it, because I can’t find my grabber. Maybe tomorrow morning I’ll figure out what it’s about.

“This is a very bad time to go around pounding on people’s doors. We’re all a little nervous about strangers. If he is running for an office, he doesn’t understand the right way to do it.

“I had another candidate stick signs on my property, without permission.

“I also think this barrage of signs is distracting to drivers. Should we vote for the first person in the line of signs, the last person or somebody in the middle? Do they really want to look like lawn maintenance or a tag sale?

“The blight committee is so fastidious about the image of Westport. How can they stomach these hideous signs everywhere on our roadsides?

“If people want to know how to vote, it’s much more informative to consider the statements of the individuals and the information put out by the League of Women Voters, don’t you think?”

(NOTE: Campaign signs are free speech, and permitted on town property. However, they cannot be put on private property without the owner’s permission.)

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Hundreds of human beings gathered yesterday at the Westport Library, to discuss their future — at least, as it relates to artificial intelligence.

The in-depth exploration of AI — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — was sponsored by Verso University, the Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.

It spanned 3 sessions. Yale Law School professor Scott Shapiro led off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.

The second session examined the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.

The final session concluded with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)

Kevin Nguyen and Kate Crawford. (Photo/Dinkin ESH Fotografix)

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Westporters will participate in Saturday’s “No Kings Day” national event.

The October 18 protest against President Trump begins at 11 a.m., at Jesup Green. Participants will march to Veterans Green, for speakers and music. The route follows one taken by Westport’s suffragists, in 1913.

One of the organizers, Darcy Hicks, says: “In Westport, No Kings Day is an opportunity to signal to our local leaders who we are and what we hold dear.

Most of us spend much of our time caring for family, whether that is our children, spouses, or parents. This is about them.

“We are marching for the preservation of the water and air they breathe, for truth in their classrooms, for their healthcare, and for their social security. Most of all, we are marching for the rehabilitation of love, and the right for all of our neighbors, regardless of their faith, gender identity, race, or economic standing, to live with dignity.”

A “No Kings” sign, from Westport’s June protest. (Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)

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I’m not sure what “Fish on the Pumpkin” is.

But it’s one of the seasonal specials you’ll find at Basso’s Halloween party.

It’s October 31. Music starts at 7:30 p.m. Manny Montañez and his orchestra will play — with Chef Renato joining in on percussion. Dancing is encourage.

So are costumes are encouraged (but not required). Click here for reservations.

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TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.

The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is this Tuesday (October 14, 6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.

To RSVP or for more information, email info@tapstrength.com.

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Walk ALS comes to Sherwood Island State Park this Saturday (October 18). Registration begins at 10 a.m. The walk kicks off at 11.

Click here for details, and more information.

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Renaissance and Baroque dances, folk songs and vocal masterworks from England, France and Italy fill Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall this Saturday (October 18, 5 p.m.

Soprano Sherezade Panthaki joins Parthenia Viol Consort (praised by The New Yorker as “one of the brightest lights in New York’s early-music scene”).

A reception follows the concert. Click here for tickets, and more information.

This was not taken at Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall. But that’s where Saturday’s concert will be.

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Duke University’s women’s crew team had a successful High Point Autumn Rowing Festival — thanks in large part to Mia Khamish of Westport.

Competing against international competition from Edinburgh and Oxford in North Carolina, the Blue Devils snagged 2 first-place finishes.

In the afternoon 8 race, the senior coxswain’s decision-making at a crucial moment made a key difference.

Coach Adrian Spracklen called it “very mature, very smart … a tremendous call that you expect from a senior — someone that’s done it before.” To see the race, click here.

The Staples High graduate rowed for the Connecticut Boat Club.

Mia Khamish

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Yeah, yeah, we’ve posted a couple of close-up “Westport … Naturally” photos recently of bees doing their thing with flowers.

In this one, the flowers are the focus.

Literally.

(Photo/Juliana Rosenoer)

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And finally … today is the birthday of James “Sugar Boy” Crawford.

The New Orleans R&B musician wrote “Jock-a-Mo” in 1954.

A Mardi Gras standard, it became a hit a decade later for the Dixie Cups, as “Iko Iko.” It was recorded by many other artists too, including Dr. John, Belle Stars, the Grateful Dead, Cyndi Lauper, and (as “Geto Boys”) by Glass Candy.

But Crawford’ s career ended in 1963. A severe beating at the hands of state troopers incapacitated him for 2 years. In 1969, he decided to sing only in churches. He died in 2012, at 77. He is now in the Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame.

(No matter who you vote for, there’s one decision we can all agree on: When you click here to support “06880,” everyone wins! No recount necessary … thank you!)

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Superintendent’s Update: AI, Smartphones, Facilities

Posted on October 11, 2025 | 6 comments

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offers this update:

Autumn has arrived! My family woke up this morning to a thermostat reading 58 degrees inside the house, a sure sign the season has officially settled in. With Halloween around the corner and fall activities in full swing, there’s great energy across our schools. The district is off to a strong start, and we continue to build momentum each week.

Below are a few brief updates on important district initiatives.
 
AI in Westport: Human‑Centered, Future‑Ready
With the exception of safety and security, I do not believe there is any topic more urgent, or more defining for the future of education, than artificial intelligence. The questions before us are not if we should engage with AI, but how: How do we use it to reclaim time, elevate performance (of students and educators), and prepare our students to lead in an AI world?

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

On October 23, in partnership with members of our faculty and administration, I will present the District Strategic Plan to the Board of Education. A central feature of this plan is a forward-looking vision for AI, one that embraces its potential while confronting its challenges head-on.

But make no mistake: This is not a plan about technology. It is a plan about humanity, about ensuring that as AI transforms our world (it already has), our schools become the place where what is most human is preserved, strengthened, and celebrated.

Our guiding principle, “AI Powered, Human Centered,” reflects both a commitment and a challenge: to use AI to amplify human potential, not replace it. This is about preparing students not just to live in an AI-driven world, but to lead in it, with creativity, empathy, and ethical purpose.

Over 50 faculty members have participated in the drafting of our plans, while all faculty members, over 500, had opportunities to provide feedback on the district AI vision and Code of Ethics.

I invite all parents and community members to join us for this important presentation on October 23 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), as we share how our district intends to set the pace for what public education can, and must, be in the age of AI.

Phone Free Schools Update
On Thursday night a team of administrators, faculty and students presented the implementation plan to the Board of Education for the Staples Phone-Free Initiative, which will begin on November 5.

It has been 16 months since my initial recommendation, and during that time the district has engaged in thoughtful discussion and collaboration among faculty, administrators, students and parents to establish a phone- and smart technology-free school day, from the first bell until dismissal.

Smartphones, smartwatches and wireless headphones are all banned on November 5.

As Staples Principal Stafford Thomas emphasized in his remarks, our goal is to foster stronger human connection, greater engagement in learning, and a healthier, more focused school culture.

Beginning November 5, our entire district (K–12) will be fully committed to a phone- and smart technology-free learning environment. As with all district initiatives, we will implement thoughtfully, learn from our experience, and make adjustments where needed.

An implementation update will be provided to the Board of Education later this school year.

District Facilities and Capital Projects
Over the past several years, the district has made a concerted effort to maintain and improve our facilities, as outlined in our Capital Improvement Plan. A top priority has been ensuring the integrity of our buildings, from mechanical systems to exterior envelopes, to create safe, efficient and modern learning environments.

Recent examples include new roofs at Saugatuck Elementary School and Staples High School, as well as HVAC upgrades across the district.

At a recent meeting, the Board of Education reviewed the updated 5-year Capital Improvement Plan and proposed projects for the 2025–2026 school year. The Board’s Finance and Facilities Committee also examined these projects in detail. Supporting documents, including information on district painting projects, can be found here.

The Staples auditorium — built in 1958, shown above in 1970, and made part of the new building in 2025 — has not been upgraded in 30 years.

Proposed 2025–2026 projects include:

  • Staples auditorium upgrades
  • Installation of wireless access points for Staples athletic fields
  • Concession stand/bathroom for Staples fields
  • Renovation of the Staples girls’ locker room
  • Upgrades to Bedford Middle School science labs
  • Roof replacement at Greens Farms School
  • Replacement of motorized folding partition in the Saugatuck gym

The Board of Education will continue to review these recommendations and advance approved projects to the Board of Finance and Representative Tonw meeting for funding consideration. I will keep the community informed as this process moves forward.

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Roundup: AI, Kids Who Aren’t A–holes, Arts …

Posted on October 5, 2025 | 2 comments

An in-depth exploration of artificial intelligence — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — is set for next Saturday (October 11, Westport Library). The public event is sponsored by Verso University, The Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.

There are 3 sessions: 12-1:30, 2-3:30 and 4-5:30. Tickets are $10 per session; $25 for all ($15 student rate for all). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Scott Shapiro, Yale Law School professor leads off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.

The second session will examine the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.

The final session concludes with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts.

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I’m not sure how I missed this, but Melinda Wenner Moyer’s 2021 book might have the best title in the history of publishing: “How To Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes.”

She followed it up this May with the less provocative — but equally important — “Hello Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times.”

On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Senior Center), Westport Together brings the Scientific American contributing editor to town. Click here to register.

Melinda Wenner Moyer

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The Westport Country Playhouse celebrated 95 years making American theater history last night, with a high-energy, Broadway-studded gala.

The iconic converted barn has not thrown fundraisers in every year of its near century existence. But for however many they’ve had, yesterday’s may have been the best.

The incomparable Nathan Lane and Anne Keefe — longtime Playhouse mainstay — were honored for their contributions. Both gave warm, graceful speeches.

Anne Keefe

Over a dozen stars belted out familiar tunes, spurred to great heights knowing Lane was in the audience, watching.

The traditional auction and paddle raise zipped along, underscoring the respect and love the full house holds for the Westport Country Playhouse.

Here’s to the next 95 years. And more!

Nathan Lane (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Artist-educator Burt Chernow launched the Westport Public Art Collections (WestPAC) in 1965, with a vision that every Westport student should experience art every day.

Built through donations from local, national and international artist friends, the WestPAC collections today include over 2,000 artworks displayed throughout Westport public schools, municipal buildings, and outdoor spaces.

As WestPAC celebrates its 60th anniversary, they’re launching a fundraising campaign. A gift of $60 (get it?) or more will help fund the care, framing, conservation and educational use of the Collections/

Click here to donate to the non-profit Friends of WestPAC,  or send a check to Friends of Westport Public Art Collections, PO Box 92, Westport, CT 06881. Questons? Email Friends.WestPAC@gmail.com.

PS: The next exhibition — “Every Picture Tells A Story: Photographs from the Westport Public Art Collection — is on view at the Westport Library from October 15 through December 15. It opens with a reception and talk by guest curator Arthur Nager on October 15 (6 p.m.).

Among the WESTPAC works: this Saturday Evening Post cover by Westport artist Stevan Dohanos. The models were all Staples High School students.

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A big little shop — called Lille Shoppe — opens soon at 375 Post Road West.

Abby Mattern’s new homewares store is an outgrowth of her first location, in Guilford. Both are stocked with items she sources personally in Europe, most of them uncommon here.

They include linens, dishes, glassware, furniture, candles, pottery, artwork, specialty imported food items and more. it’s a mix of antique/vintage items, and new.

The soft opening is October 10. A grand opening follows on October 18. Click here for the website. Click here for the Instagram.

Lille Shoppe 

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The Westport Book Shop’s 5th annual Family Fun & Pumpkin Painting Project is all about treats. There’s not a trick in sight.

Set for next Saturday (October 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Jesup Green), it’s a day of pumpkin painting, crafts, face painting, tattoos, guest critters, Monster Mash, music from the Staples High jazz band, and more. Costumes are encouraged (but not required).

Co-hosts are Earthplace and the Westport Tree Board.

Pumpkin painting and more, at the Westport Book Shop’s annual event. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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George Barrett — the multi-talented (opera singer, teacher/soccer coach/healthcare executive, and singer/songwriter) 1973 Staples High School graduate has just released a single and music video.

“Watch the Moon” — a track from his upcoming album, “Rearrange Things” — is  about the loss of a child.

That unimaginable tragedy has touched many people close to Barrett.

He says, “for some, the struggle to keep their spirit as they try to look after the rest of their family, is an ongoing battle. Given the subject, it felt right to keep this song without ornament, stripped down to my voice and piano.”

On November 14, Barrett will be at New York’s Bitter End — the venue where, years ago, he nervously played his first open mic gig.

And on November 16, he and his good friend, Grammy-winning composer/ producer (and ’71 Staples grad) Brian Keane perform at the Westport Library. Details will be announced soon.

Click here or below, to listen to “Watch the Moon.” Click here for “Rearrange Things.”

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Today, the “06880” tagline — “Where Westport meets the world” — takes us to Madrid.

Longtime Westporter Luisa Francouer is there. She visited the “100 Years of Leica” photo exhibition — and spotted this image, by 1991 Staples High School graduate Lynsey Addario.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” features marks the first appearance here of “the common garden orange carrot.”

At least, that’s what photographer Mike Hibbard says.

(Photo/Mike Hibbard)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming appearance by the author of “How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes” (story above):

(Don’t be a you-know-what. “06880” relies on support from you — you know, readers like you. Please click here to be a nice person, and help us out too. Thank you very kindly.)

 

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“Students Speak”: Will Enquist, “In Defense Of Thinking”

Posted on October 3, 2025 | 2 comments

Last week, “06880” introduced a new feature. “Students Speak” gives Westport students a voice on any issue important to their lives.

Today, Will Enquist looks at artificial intellgence.

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:

Throughout my time at Staples, I have witnessed several changes both in the local community and the broader world: our football team has become a perennial state championship contender, societal faith in “the media” has broadly decreased, and baggy clothes are now back in style.

But the most profound change — one that is certain to fundamentally change our world (if it already hasn’t) — came in the fall of my freshman year: publicly available artificial intelligence.

Overnight, students around the world (and in Westport) gained access to arguably the greatest tool for academic dishonesty ever invented.

Topic selection, research, outlining, drafting, revising — processes that usually take days if not weeks, given the rigor of a school like Staples — could now be completed with the click of a button (and a lapse in judgment).

At that point — the fall of 2022 — using AI for direct cheating on school work was largely unheard of. Early versions of ChatGPT produced crude, rudimentary and unrefined outputs.

Still, within weeks of the chatbot’s release, rumors reverberated through the halls of the first students – pioneers in some sense – who had used AI on their assignments.

Today, the relationship between Staples, AI and students is far different. The technology has exponentially improved, but so too has the effort around detection.

Teachers are hyper-cognizant of the technology, and one cannot make it 5 minutes into the first week of school without hearing a teacher clearly outline the limits on AI use in their class.

Teachers can help guide students as to the benefits — and pitfalls — of AI. (Photo/Camryn Zukowski)

Over the past 3 years, I have had many discussions with students and teachers about the role of AI in modern education. Opinions on the topic vary widely, but almost always excluded from that discussion is the question of why students use AI.

On the surface it is easy for one to think that those who turn to AI do so simply out of laziness or a desire to avoid effort. While lethargy is certainly the culprit in some cases, the term does not always apply.

At a school like Staples where academic achievement looms large, the pressure to perform can be quite high. In that environment I understand why students are willing to turn to AI as a shortcut; it’s a way to keep up when the pace of academics, sports and extracurriculars becomes too great.

But while I may be able to empathize with the reasons students use AI, I absolutely disagree with its use in replacing the skills of critical thinking that high school, and education more broadly, aim to instill in students.

To me, relying on a chatbot only adds to the pressure that can make school so stressful. Sure, AI might be able to relieve you of an especially heavy workload one evening, but in the long run the diminishment of your ability to think critically and create polished academic writing will surely catch up with you.

The central challenge of AI as it relates to students is choice. Today, each time a student sits down to complete a writing assignment, they are faced with a decision between a dishonest shortcut and a genuine effort.

I can’t force my classmates to recognize the lost opportunity that comes with using AI on an assignment. But I can say those moments of persistence – the late nights, the drafts, the rewrites, the Red Bulls – have contributed more to my growth as a student than any violation of the student handbook could.

The pride and growth that comes from completing a lengthy essay, project, or draft after numerous hours of work is something no algorithm could ever replace.

(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.) 

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Every day, we bring you news, events, opinions, photos and much more. But we can’t do it without the support of our readers. Please click here to contribute. Thanks!)

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Scarice Update: AI, Phone-Free, Security And More

Posted on September 6, 2025 | 6 comments

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice sends this update to all Westport Public Schools families: 

We’re off to a strong start! Thank you for your partnership in making the opening days safe, focused, and full of enthusiasm. Below are brief updates on several important topics.

AI in Westport: Human‑Centered, Future‑Ready

On Thursday night I provided a comprehensive update to the Board of Education on the various projects across the system, our successes, and the challenges before us. That report can be viewed here.

At the top of this list is AI.  On October 23, in partnership with members of the faculty and administration, I will be presenting the district Strategic Plan for AI.

This summer a team of over 50 Westport educators began drafting our AI plans.  We view AI as a human‑centered tool, not a replacement for teachers. Used well, AI will help rehumanize school by reducing routine tasks for teachers, personalizing learning for students at scale, and creating more time for feedback, relationships, and rich, authentic work.

Our approach is purposeful and ethical: strong privacy and data protections, an AI Code of Ethics, and consistent access so tools can reach all students.

AI literacy will be a primary focus so students become creative, critical, and responsible users and creators of these technologies.

We won’t chase trends.  We will lead, on Westport’s terms. Our mission, not the technology, will guide our decisions.

Please join us October 23 as we present the AI Strategic Plan, a clear vision statement, and our Code of Ethics to the Board of Education.

Phone-Free Schools Update

In June of 2024, I recommended restricting access to smartphones and wearable technology during the school day across all grade levels.

Since then, our phone-free initiative has been successfully implemented across all elementary and middle schools. Students at these levels now benefit from a learning environment free from the distractions of personal devices.

In my final recommendation to the Board of Education last school year in May 15 (see pages 14-36), I continued to press for a bell-to-bell phone-free school day at Staples High School.

The Board expressed support for this direction, while requesting that a detailed implementation plan be developed before final approval.

This summer, a team of Staples faculty and administrators drafted a comprehensive implementation plan. That plan is in the process of being reviewed by a review committee composed of faculty, students, and parents.

The charge of the review committee is not to determine whether to move forward with a phone-free day, but to provide feedback on the implementation plan to maximize effectiveness.

The work of the review committee will culminate this month with a return to the Board of Education on October 9. Full implementation of a phone0free Staples is expected for the start of the second quarter.

We look forward to input from the review committee, and returning to the Board of Education, before establishing a true phone free school environment across all schools in Westport.

Please join us on October 9 at 7 p.m. in the Staples Cafeteria for the presentation to the Board of Education.

School Security

Last spring, we completed our first comprehensive security evaluation in more than a decade. The nearly 300‑page report was presented to the Board of Education in executive session at the most recent meeting.

Our schools are safe, with strong systems, secure facilities, and an exemplary partnership with the Westport Police Department. Yet we are committed to continuous improvement.

The Board will continue its review in executive session over the coming weeks, and we will develop and share an action plan with the community while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

Early Dismissal Times

In an effort to establish consistent early dismissal times for conferences, professional development, and the day preceding vacations, these dismissal times will be implemented for all levels this year:

  • Staples:  11 a.m.
  • BMS, CMS, SES:  11:30 a.m.
  • KHS, LLS, GFS, CES: 12 noon

Parent Square

As a reminder, WPS employees are expressly prohibited from texting students. To strengthen communication, the district introduced ParentSquare last year. ParentSquare is now our primary platform for sharing important school updates, alerts, PTA newsletters, events and reminders. If you haven’t yet signed up, or if your original link has expired, you can easily register by downloading the ParentSquare app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Board of Education Dates to Know – 7 p.m., Staples cafeteria

October 9: Review of the Staples phone‑free implementation plan

October 23: Presentation of the district AI Strategic Plan.

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School Starts: Scarice Salutes Staff, Addresses AI

Posted on August 26, 2025 | 3 comments

Today is the first day of school. Student energy will be high.

Yesterday marked the opening convocation for the 965 educators and support staff in the Westport Public Schools. Their energy — at a welcoming breakfast at Staples High, and the only all-staff meeting of the year — was off the charts.

There were several standing ovations, including for teachers marking milestone anniversaries in the district, and the 11 Teacher of the Year nominees. The winner, Dr. Dan Cortwright, earned special applause.

Another standing ovation: Staples Orphenians, under the direction of Lauren Pine (right), for their rendition of the national anthem.

But the biggest ovation may have been for a group that never gets one: bus drivers.

Near the beginning of his remarks, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice singled out the work of the 60 First Student employees. He cited several incidents of “above and beyond” service — “small actions that have large impact” — and then invited the drivers to the front.

As they marched proudly down the aisles, hundreds of teachers and administrators rose to their feet, and cheered lustily.

First Student bus drivers enjoy a standing ovation.

There were cheers too for the Teacher of the Year nominees: Emily Boyle, Kim Chu, Erik Dey, Jeff Doornweerd, Jenna Giordano, Erin Hines, Eric Lawrence, Maggie Robinson, Jeremy Royster, Julie Sanzo and Katie Sullivan.

The selection of Dr. Dan Cortwright — an 8th grade science teacher at Bedford Middle School — was an affirmation of what Scarice called all the honorees: “the best of our profession.”

BMS principal Dr. Adam Rosen hailed the University of Michigan biochemistry Ph.D. as “a compassionate innovator and tireless advocate. He regularly includes the mot vulnerable students.”

Rosen said that Cortwright cultivates “creativity, belonging and engagement. He makes science come alive. His classroom is a place of challenge and joy. He inspires everyone. He teaches a master class in our district’s values.”

As head coach of the state champion and national contender Science Olympiad team, Cortwright reached out to a student in the intensive resource program. State judges said it was the first time a special needs youngster participated in the Olympiad.

After an emotional video in which that student spoke lovingly of Cortwright, he took the stage. The Teacher of the Year saluted the BMS students who made the young girl feel part of the team, then described the joy he gets from helping children “see the magic that happens when they figure things out.”

Westport Teacher of the year Dr. Dan Cortwright (right), with (from left) superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, and assistant superintendent John Bayers.

Scarice, meanwhile, is trying to figure out artificial intelligence. So is everyone else in education.

His keynote address used the collapse of monasteries as a metaphor for colleges today.

Once central to all of European civilization, monasteries fell under the spread of a new technology: the printing press.

An array of forces — economic, demographic, political and technological — now buffet universities, Scarice said.

Combined with AI, the future is very uncertain.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (All photos/Dan Woog)

“What does this mean for educators?” Scarice asked rhetorically.

His answer: It is an opportunity to “re-humanize” education.

For example, artificial intelligence can “lift the burdens on teachers, so they can spend more time with students. It can help us point our ethical compass to the true north. It can help us stay human-centered, and transparent.

AI is here to stay, he emphasized. The job of educators, Scarice said, is to “be architects, leading the pathway forward.”

He urged the Westport Schools “not to wait for change to happen, but to shape the way forward for students.

“If it can’t happen here in Westport,” he concluded, “it will never happen.”

AFTER THE BELL: Teacher of the Year Dr. Cortright is entering his 15th year as a WEstport teacher. Previously, he spent nearly 15 years in science research, contributing to advancements that help patients manage conditions like multiple myeloma …

The Westport Public Schools welcome 27 new teachers this year. There are also nearly 30 newly hired non-certified staff members, and 10 interns and student teachers. Combined with coaches, other extracurricular and stipend positions, and substitutes, there are nearly 1,200 WPS employees …

Scarice began the convocation with a moment of silence for Kristen Ryan Beirne. The popular and talented Bedford Middle School physical education teacher — a former star athlete at Staples — died earlier this month, after a long illness.

(“06880” reports regularly on education in Westport. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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