As the city soaks in the summer sun, excitement is already building within the Waterbury Public School system for the upcoming academic year. In an exclusive conversation with The Waterbury Times, Board of Education Commissioner Thomas Van Stone shared insight into what’s ahead, highlighting expansion plans, leadership changes, and a renewed focus on student wellness.

“The excitement is alive at Roberto Clemente International School,” Van Stone said. “We’re in the early stages of an expansion plan there, and it’s a great sign of growth and investment in our students and community.”

While specific names are still under wraps, Van Stone confirmed that new leadership will be announced at several schools—including Wilby High School. “We have some new principals to announce, just not quite yet,” he teased.

A major priority this year is strengthening support for Special Education. “We’re working hard to get Special Ed the resources it needs,” Van Stone emphasized. “We’ll be bringing in someone from outside the district—well, sort of. She has taught here before at Enlightenment, and we’ll be announcing her soon.”

With summer in full swing, district leaders are also planning how to ease students back into school life and prepare them for any changes they may encounter this fall.

One of the most urgent messages Van Stone wanted to share is about the city’s underused student health and wellness resources. “We need to give some love to our very underused wellness offerings,” he said. “Students and parents need to know that medical services—including doctor visits, physicals, dental care, vaccinations, and more—are available at no cost to all Waterbury students, not just those who attend schools with clinics on-site.”

Despite the value of these offerings, usage remains low. “Only about 5% of our 19,000 students have taken advantage of these services,” Van Stone noted. He urges families to learn more and take full advantage of what’s available. Information can be found on the City of Waterbury Department of Public Health website.

As the 2025-2026 school year approaches, Waterbury Public Schools appear poised for progress—with new leadership, improved services, and renewed energy for student success.

For continuing updates, stay with The Waterbury Times.