Principal's Page
Dear Families,
Welcome or welcome back to Wintonbury!
Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School is a true gem; a place where children can grow and develop as respected, engaged, and contributing citizens. It is a place of care and safety, of intellectual pursuit and curiosity for all learners. We are an inclusive school focused on relationships, developmentally appropriate best practices and play based, inquiry driven learning.
Wintonbury is filled with incredibly talented and highly dedicated staff who are experts in infusing children's interests and development in and around our curriculums. We use the Creative Curriculum, Second Step, Zones of Regulation, Handwriting without Tears, and teacher developed studies. Children attend field trips to Auerfarm 12 times a year to engage in hands on science content following the seasonal farm calendar. Our outdoor learning space, courtyard, and greenhouse enhance our scientific inquiry theme as children observe nature, grow plants, and try healthy foods.
We partner with several community entities such as Auerfarm, the Prosser Library, the Lion's Club, the University of Hartford, Bloomfield High School, Micro2life, and our families! We have an active PTO and invite families to volunteer at school including joining trips to Auerfarm. Our families and community partners add expertise and rich culture to our community.
I have been working in the early childhood field since 2007 in public schools, private schools, charter, and magnet school settings in Washington DC, Virginia and Connecticut. I have taught in both special education and regular education classrooms. In 2016 I joined Wintonbury as the Instructional Coach and have been honored to be the Principal since 2020. I have an undergraduate degree in Art and Visual Technology and a masters degree is in Early Childhood Education focusing on curriculum and instruction. Additionally, I also hold a sixth year degree in Educational Leadership. I am a licensed teacher and school administrator and can honestly say that Wintonbury is a special place for all young children to grow and learn.
I am deeply honored to be a part of this fabulous community as I know you will be. The "Wintonbury Team" and I look forward to partnering with you and your child during the beginning years of their educational journey.
With gratitude,
Samantha Straker
Principal, Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School