School Consolidation Proposal & Back-To-School Scams

August 21, 2025


Our community will make an important decision on the future of our school district. My radio guest will break down how the November ballot could change our town's public education for years to come.

I hope you're taking advantage of back-to-school deals including Sales Tax-Free Week. Unfortunately, scammers are trying to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers. Please keep scrolling to learn how to avoid becoming a victim.

The state's student loan reimbursement program is open once again. Find out how you can apply for financial relief.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Let's Talk About It: School Consolidation
  • Look Out For Sales Tax-Free Week Scams
  • Apply Now For Student Loan Relief
  • Family & Community Expo
Let's Talk About It: School Consolidation

We had the pleasure of speaking with Lynne Ide, Chair of the Windham Board of Education, on "Let's Talk About It" for a wide-ranging conversation that touched on:

  • The proposed consolidation of several elementary schools
  • Academic success stories across the district
  • The arrival of our new superintendent

Let's start with the discussion on November's referendum to consolidate Natchaug, Sweeney, and North Windham Elementary Schools into one brand-new building. Ide emphasized several benefits of consolidation including greater collaboration among educators, reduced transportation and renovation costs, and smoother transitions for students across classrooms.

The plan will only move forward with the support of the community, and there will be online and in-person forums after Labor Day to give families an opportunity to learn more and ask questions.
Ide also highlighted several impressive achievements at Natchaug Elementary, which was the only school in the state recognized on the Alliance for a Healthier Generation's "America's Healthiest Schools 2025" and was just named a Red, White, and Blue School for the second year in a row for its outstanding work in civics education.
We discussed the arrival of our new superintendent, Dr. Iris Gomero, who started on July 1, 2025. From day one, she has been out in the community listening to students and families, joining events such as the Third Thursday Street Festival and National Night Out to hear directly from residents about our district's future.

We also talked about the completed renovations at Windham High School, the exciting science opportunities at Barrow's STEM Academy, our incredible dual language programs, and so much more. Please click on the video below to listen to the entire show.
Lynne Ide discusses a proposed elementary school consolidation proposal.
Look Out For Sales Tax-Free Week Scams

You should be on the lookout for potential scams during back-to-school shopping season. Here are some tips to avoid being scammed:

  • Be wary of fake advertisements
  • Confirm the online seller
  • Review the return and refund policies before you check out
  • Use a credit card
  • Keep receipts from in-store purchases

Connecticut offers many protections for consumers, and I encourage everyone to know your rights and protect yourself.
Click here to learn more
Remember that shoppers can take advantage of Connecticut’s Sales Tax-Free Week through Saturday, August 23. Any sale or purchase of certain items of clothing or footwear costing less than $100 per item are exempt from sales tax.
Exempt & Taxable Items During Sales Tax-Free Week 
Apply Now For Student Loan Relief

You can apply once again for the Connecticut Office of Higher Education's (OHE) Student Loan Reimbursement Program (SLRP). It provides up to $5,000 annually, with a four-year cap at $20,000, to eligible applicants who meet service and income requirements.

Recent changes have expanded eligibility for Connecticut’s student loan relief program, helping it reach more residents burdened by student debt.

The following includes the program’s key eligibility requirements:

  • Connecticut resident for at least five consecutive years
  • Outstanding student loan balance and made a qualifying payment in 2024
  • Graduated from a Connecticut college/university, or attended a program to earn a professional license/certificate
  • Income limits: $125,000 for individuals and $175,000 for married applicants
  • 50 hours of verified volunteer service since Jan. 1, 2024, at a qualifying nonprofit, municipal agency, or through military service

Applicants must create an account, complete the application, and upload all required documents to be considered. Click here to create an account and apply.
Family & Community Expo
Windham Public Schools and the Town of Windham present the Family & Community Expo at Jillson Square on Saturday, August 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

There will be food, music, vendors, and much more, including free haircuts for kids! There will also be a FREE backpack giveaway for students on a first come-first serve basis. A child must be present to receive a backpack.