We are thrilled that five members of our senior class were recently named MLK Scholars by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund. Each of the winners will receive a $20,000 scholarship toward their post-secondary education. This year, our winners are Amy Carolsviza, Cynthia Deneus, Jason Hicks, Hannah Lin and Shayla Roche. Congratulations to all!

Hispanic Heritage Month

Members of our Successful Hispanic Alliance Club, with the support of our Diversity Office, assembled a group of flags recently on the lawn in front of Norton Gymnasium to celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, which recognizes the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans who have inspired others to succeed. You’ll notice the display as you drive by campus.

Painting Program Offered

Our Visual and Performing Arts Department is thrilled to announce the return of its adult painting class beginning Oct. 26. The 10-session course costs $275 and will start with students learning color theory, including how to mix values and colors in acrylic paint. Class will then progress to creating observational paintings. Students will learn through visual demonstrations, one-on-one assistance and individual practice time. For more information, email carmodya@nfaschool.org. Registration is available online.

Open House Days

We are thrilled to welcome families of students in grade 8 (and even grade 7) to campus for any one of our three upcoming Open House days: Sunday, Oct. 24, at 1 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 13, at 2 p.m.; or Thursday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m.

The best way to learn about Norwich Free Academy is to experience it, and these days are designed to provide incoming students and parents with key information needed to make the important decision of where to attend high school.

We know that opportunities at NFA are unmatched in our region, but we want you to discover that on your own. The Open House format is simple. The session will start in Slater Auditorium with a brief overview of the school and our programs. Following that presentation, students and families will have the opportunity to tour our campus and see first hand what sets us apart.

This is a great chance for you to hear directly from our administration, teachers and students about what makes an NFA education so unique. Eighth graders have a variety of choices when it comes to choosing a high school, but we believe that after attending one of our Open House events that the decision will be very clear.

Homecoming

Saturday, Oct. 16, is Homecoming at NFA! The football team will host Waterford at 1 p.m. on the Turf Field. Pre-game events will take place, as well as a homecoming celebration for students that evening. Instead of the traditional indoor dance, we are taking all necessary precautions and hosting an on the field event for our students that will include dancing, games, a unique photo op and more. We’ll share pictures next month!

Michael O’Farrell is director of communications for Norwich Free Academy and the father of two NFA students. He can be reached at ofarrellm@nfaschool.org.