Each year, the Connecticut Association of Schools recognizes outstanding schools through its School of the Year awards, a process designed to highlight growth and excellence across multiple measures. Schools submit a comprehensive application outlining their work in student achievement, school culture, instructional practices, and systems of support. A review committee selects two finalists at each level, followed by site visits where team members meet with students, staff, families, and administrators to better understand each school’s practices and impact. Final selections are based on both the application and the site visit.

Elementary School of the Year – George Hersey Robertson Intermediate School (Coventry):
George Hersey Robertson Intermediate School (GHR) in Coventry has earned the CAS Elementary School of the Year designation in recognition of its strong outcomes and cohesive school community. The school has demonstrated consistent academic growth across ELA and mathematics, along with strong cohort progress as students move through the grades, and has significantly reduced chronic absenteeism to 5.9%. This success is driven by a focus on the whole child, supported by well-developed systems that address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. A strong culture of student voice—evident through student-led conferences, leadership opportunities, and enrichment experiences—combined with high levels of staff collaboration creates a learning environment where students are both supported and challenged. As Principal Jennifer DeRagon shared, “GHR is truly a tight-knit school community where relationships are at the heart of everything we do … Parents are not just supporters from the sidelines; they are active participants in their children’s learning, growth, and well-being,” reflecting the strong family partnerships that help drive the school’s success.

 
Middle School of the Year – Bennie Dover Jackson Multi-Magnet Middle School Campus (New London):
At the middle school level, Bennie Dover Jackson Multi-Magnet Middle School Campus (BDJMMMS) in New London was recognized for its significant progress and strong, student-centered culture. Serving a highly diverse student population, the school has made notable gains while building a community rooted in equity and belonging. A defining strength of BDJMMMS is the intentional creation of multiple avenues for student voice, including leadership groups, peer mediation, mentoring, and student-led initiatives that position students as active contributors to the school community. This sense of ownership is reinforced by the visibility of student work throughout the building and community, reflecting identity, learning, and pride. The school has also demonstrated remarkable progress in staff stability, with certified staff retention now exceeding 90%, a significant shift from rates below 50% six years ago. As Principal Chris Vamvakides shared, “This honor reflects the spirit and perseverance of our school community and is dedicated to our amazing staff, families, and most importantly, to our incredible students.”

 
High School of the Year – Conard High School (West Hartford):
Conard High School in West Hartford has been selected as the CAS High School of the Year for its strong academic programming and commitment to student belonging and engagement. The school continues to earn recognition for college readiness, and its Advanced Placement program is a particular strength, with 80% of students enrolled in AP courses taking the exam and 93% of those earning a score of 3 or higher. Conard has also made progress in student engagement, including a 5.2% decrease in chronic absenteeism, reflecting a focus on strengthening connections and support. A defining feature of the school is its emphasis on belonging and student voice, with a wide range of affinity groups, leadership opportunities, and inclusive programs that ensure all students feel seen and valued. As Principal Jocelyn Tamborello-Noble, a proud Conard graduate, shared, “The heart of Conard is its unwavering belief in students. This belief lives within every adult who graces our halls. Together, we carry forward a legacy rooted in belonging, connection, and a deep commitment to every student who enters our doors,” capturing the spirit of a school community grounded in relationships and high expectations.