Hawk Pride: something that is shown throughout the halls here at Woodland. We, as a school, pride ourselves on that. Now, that pride has been recognized elsewhere, at the state level. Woodland Regional High School was a contender in the Connecticut Association of Schools 2025 High School of the Year.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, parents, students, teachers and administrators were interviewed about why our school should be the winner. Student tour guides took the committee around the school and showed what makes Woodland so unique. Parents Joe Lato and Bill Brooks highly praise the school and what makes it a winner.
“The administration is what makes the school great. They care about the students and give them the opportunity to succeed,” said Brooks and Lato. “This school is one of the nicest in the state of Connecticut.”
They also believe that the school is an amazing place to educate other children.
“My son, who graduated from Woodland, left with one full semester of college classes,” said Brooks. “And that gave him more opportunities in the future.”
Woodland is a close-knit community. Everyone knows everyone. Inclusive, full of opportunities, and successful. Superintendent Micheal Yamin highly praised the school and what it offer.
“Woodland is unique and really embodies the Woodland way,” said Yamin. “I think we are powerful with what opportunities we offer and with the different paths and classes we have, it gives kids a chance to do what they would like to.”
Teachers also believe that this school is a great place to work. Teachers Brandon Moore and Mike Magas have their positive views on Woodland.
“This school is a positive environment for the students and teachers alike,” said Moore. “We always have fun things going on in every classroom.”
“We as teachers are able to build a bond with the students through continuity,” said Magas. “Most of the teachers and administrators have been here a long time and that helps the people who come through this school.”
Students find Woodland a great place to learn and be a student. Sophomore Ella Iannone believes that the teachers are the reason why Woodland is so great.
“We as students are able to build connections with teachers who really care about our education,” said Iannone. “That is what makes Woodland stand out.”
As of the end of February, Woodland was named high school of the year. The decision was made by the focus on the clubs, inclusivity, and opportunities that Woodland has. This is what made the Hawks stand out from the rest of Connecticut.
