School Dedication Honors Former Superintendent John Reed

By Larissa Lytwyn

Former superintendent John Reed was honored Wednesday evening at Reed Intermediate School, which bears his name, with a plaque presented by Board of Education secretary Margaret Hull.

More than 60 supporters, including Dr Reed’s family and colleagues, attended the event.

 “[The Reed Intermediate School] has been a great facility for the town,” said First Selectman Herbert C. Rosenthal, adding that the former superintendent’s perseverance to find a cost-efficient alternative to the potential addition of a new high school or middle school was a key part to his legacy.

“I believe this kind of an honor makes one humble,” said Dr Reed. “It also gives them a greater sense of responsibility.”

After introductions from Superintendent of Schools Evan Pitkoff, Board of Education Chairman Elaine McClure, and Board of Education member Andrew Buzzi, the plaque was unveiled to a round of applause. “The symbolism of the school is profound,” said Dr Reed in accepting the honor. “My name is a placeholder for hundreds of people.”

Dr Reed also thanked his wife of 38 years, Christina Reed, for supporting him during his tenure as superintendent.

“Dr Reed is such a legend here,” said Joan Salbu, a member of Support Our Schools whose daughter, Sarah, is a freshman at Newtown High School. “We [at Support Our Schools] believe that supporting our education system has a good affect on the entire community.”

The dedication was followed with a reception in the Reed Intermediate School Cafetorium.