Tolland Students Return School With New Building And Outlook

TOLLAND, CT — Students in Tolland returned to their classrooms Wednesday for the 2021-22 academic year with a new building for the lower grades and a renewed outlook amid another year with coronavirus pandemic-related protocols.

Tolland Superintendent of Schools Walter Willett described the day as, "A great beginning of school for this great community."

He made the rounds during the day.

"As I visited each building, I saw smiles all around," Willett said. "While COVID lingers, our spirit has never been stronger. I appreciate the strength and dedication of all stakeholders in this community to keep our schools open, and learning in-person."

Tolland school board chairwoman Ashley Lundgren said the vibe was a good one.

"Students embarked on new adventures today," she said. "I hope that all students, staff and parents everywhere have a wonderful year."

The biggest adventure was at Birch Grove Primary School, which was rebuilt after falling victim to the crumbling foundation crisis in North Central Connecticut. Until the new school was built, students up to Grade 2 had to take classes in portable, trailer-like rooms. On Wednesday, a sparkling new building awaited.

"What a fantastic first day of school welcome experience our students had today at the new Birch Grove," said Tolland Board of Education vice chairwoman Christina Plourd, who dropped off her first-grader then stayed for a meet-and-greet. "My son was so excited to see his friends and meet his new teacher. It’s going to be great year."

She said the in-person experience in a new building was something she was looking forward to and it did not disappoint.

"It was incredible," Plourd said. "Really ... The experience of walking into the school with my son for the meet-and-greet was so welcoming as opposed to last year in kindergarten, when he just got on bus ands went to school — period."

Town council chairwoman Tammy Nuccio was impressed with the hustle.

"I am very happy with the completion of the new Birch Grove school. The fact that this demolition and reconstruction occurred in such a quick turn around time and on budget is a win for the people of Tolland. I've seen nothing but smiling faces as the kids have returned to school in this beautiful building. Im grateful for the help from the CT Legislature in making this happen and look forward to the grand opening."

She said the staff seemed very happy in the new setting.

Students were wearing masks as they returned to classes.