Naugatuck Excitedly Welcomes Back Students On First Day Of School

NAUGATUCK, CT — Despite an arrest and some issues with speeding, police and Board of Education members spoke positively about the first day back to school Wednesday in Naugatuck.

In an email to Patch, police said there was some expected traffic at each of the schools, and Naugatuck High School has issues with students speeding out of the upper parking lot.

Police also noted a student was arrested Wednesday following a fight, however police did not specify where the fight occurred.

"Other than that, back to school is going smoothly and everyone seems happy to be back," police said.

According to police, the department added a new school resource officer this year, bringing the total number of SROs to three: one covering Naugatuck High School, one covering City Hill Middle School and a third covering all of the district's elementary schools.

Board of Education Chair Jeff Litke said board members and the district were excited to welcome students back to school Wednesday.

"[Students] came back prepared to learn and ready to take on the challenges that come with a new school year," Litke said in an email to Patch. "Overall I think the first day was a success, and we look forward to the school year ahead."

Board of Education Member Kim Gallo noted the first day of school in Naugatuck is her favorite day of the year.

"From the smiling, excited faces of our students to the happy but anxious faces of their parents, coupled with the happy and welcoming smiles of our talented school faculty and staff, the first day of school is a day when kids are celebrated," Gallo said in an email. "More than any theme park, it is truly the happiest place on earth. Wishing all a joyous, productive year of learning."

Patch has reached out to the Superintendent of Schools' office for more information.