This campus-style elementary school has approximately 650 students and is located in the Newfield area of Stamford. What is unique to this school is that students are encouraged to follow  the “6 pillars of character” that include: responsibility, citizenship, fairness, respect, trustworthiness and caring.

Davenport was named a 2015-2016 Banner School ,  one of only six schools statewide recognized with this award by the State Education Resource Center. This prestigious honor is awarded  for the successful implementation of school-wide systems for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.

The school is situated across from Sterling Farms Golf Course, which enables the school to utilize the picnic grounds and golf course for year-end activities. The school boasts three playgrounds, including handicapped accessible play features.

Davenport Ridge prepares all students to reach their full potential as life-long learners and socially responsible contributors to the global community. The school’s vision is to challenge the students and staff to pursue excellence, foster creative expression and to develop a concern for the quality of life for all.

Jessica Chaapel, Davenport Ridge Elementary School, Grade 3 teacher, is the  2015-16 Stamford Teacher of the Year.

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Stamford Public School (SPS) – Where Excellence Is the Point

SPS comprises more than 16,000 students, over 1,500 professionals, and 20 schools, including six magnet and two International Baccalaureate schools. SPS has a total of 12 elementary schools, five middle schools and three high schools. The mission of SPS is to prepare each and every student for higher education and success in the 21st century. SPS is proud that our district is as rich in diversity as it is in talent. SPS has students from many cultural backgrounds and geographic locations—as demonstrated by the more than 65 different languages spoken in the homes of our families. SPS offers their students a learning experience rich in cultural diversity and reflective of the global society in which they will work and live.

 SPS Achievements and Accolades: 

• Stamford schools ranked in top quartile of city schools according to a study conducted by McKinsey Associates

• Three National Merit Scholars (8 semi-finalists; 10 commended)—representing each of our high schools

• AITE recently ranked number one among magnet high schools in Connecticut by Niche Rankings

• Westhill High was recently recognized as one of the most challenging high schools in the country by the Washington Post

• AITE Student named US Presidential Scholar

• Stamford High Girls Basketball team was last year’s State Champions

• Westhill High Boys Basketball  team was last year’s FCIAC Champions

• Westhill-Stamford High Schools Co-Op Hockey team was last year’s State Champions

• Stamford High Co-Ed Cheerleading team was last year’s FCIAC Champions

• AITE and Westhill Students Take First and Second Place Respectively in the NFTE Fairfield County Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge

• Three Stamford High School sophomores  were recently recognized for their work in the development of a food pantry through the SHS Gives Back program.

This is just a sampling of our students’ achievements. We have a LOT to be proud of  here in Stamford!

“Tour Your Schools Day” will be held on Thursday, November 17th. This is an excellent opportunity to visit, ask questions, and learn about your school!

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Welcome our new Superintendent, Earl Kim!

 Mr. Earl Kim became Superintendent of Stamford Public Schools (SPS) in July 2016. Prior to coming to Stamford Mr. Kim served as Head of School, Kamehameha Schools – Kapālama, Hawaii and prior to that in 2008-12 he was Superintendent of Schools in Montgomery Township, New Jersey, and from 2003-8 he was Superintendent in Verona Township New Jersey.

Mr. Kim grew up in Hawaii. He graduated from Cornell University, with a Bachelor of Art degree in History. He was subsequently commissioned a lieutenant in the US Marines where he served for four years.

In 1988, through the Alternate Route Program, he began teaching and coaching in Trenton, N.J.  He left his position in Trenton to attend the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, where he graduated with a Master of Public Affairs degree. Again, through the Alternate Route Program, he became a teacher, an assistant principal, and principal in a number of New Jersey school districts before his first role as superintendent. He was a Founding Member and Trustee of the Foundation Academy Charter School in Trenton, N.J. from 2006 through 2012, and a Founding Member of the New Jersey Network of Superintendents.

Mr. Kim has earned the following awards and recognitions: New Jersey Best Practices, New Jersey School Boards Association, New Jersey Star Schools, National Blue Ribbon Schools, and New Jersey Principal of the Year.

We wish Mr Kim continued success here in Stamford!

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Here a few things people are looking at during their home search.

With the information highway right at our fingertips, the majority of buyers are doing tons of research before they ever meet with a Realtor.  They are looking for good school systems and low neighborhood crime among other criteria. Most of the time, buyers’ minds are already made up on where they want to be, so it takes an experienced agent to help keep them open minded. Let’s see what we can they want!

Geography

Buyers tend to gravitate to areas and neighborhoods that have a great sense of security. They want an area that has little to no crime and is safe for loved ones-both human & furry.

Another priority is convenience. People like to be near amenities whether it’s the gym, golf course, pools or beaches as well a variety of activities and events happening throughout the year. Easy access to shopping and commuting options are important as well.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Resale value is always on a potential buyer’s minds, (yes, even though they haven’t even put in an offer!). Whether the buyer is looking for a “turn-key” property or are willing to invest some “sweat equity”, how their investment will treat them when it comes time to sell is always important.

People rely heavily on the internet to search for homes which make the presentation crucial. Things that can help influence and draw in buyers are staging and pictures – you know that “pictures speak a 1,000 words” – make sure yours make the statement you want them to make! 

The Clock is Ticking

Real-estate maven Barbara Corcoran says,  “… if you are looking at dusty two-month-old listings, isn’t it like eating leftovers?”  The answer is – sometimes.
Usually the reason a house sits on the market is because it is not priced to the perceived market value. A good house finally coming to the right price can be a great value!  When people are looking to buy they are looking for good value.

I hope this is helpful, and if you’d like to discuss marketing your home, feel free to contact me and put my successful track record to work for you! 

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You may not always want to pack up and head to the beach, especially with a big family.

Is getting a Pool or Jacuzzi a good investment for you?

Let’s look at both the benefits and down sides.

Making a Splash at Number One …

Family time is the number one bonus  – splashing around is an activity everyone can do together and have fun! Beaches can be distracting and don’t really give you the same feeling as relaxing at home and enjoying time with your family and friends.

Next … Stress Relief

Having a pool is one of the most therapeutic things anyone can ask for. Being able to have a gym and tranquility all in one can be the best!

A pool can be a great enticement to get out of the house on a hot summer day and move around – whether it’s swimming, aerobics or just some good old “Marco Polo”. It helps get the kids moving helping to counteract all the indoor time during the winter when they tend to spend more time on video games.

Does a Pool Add Value to Your Home

Is this a good investment? The answer is – it depends. It depends on the market and the buyer. If you are in an area where the majority of the homes have pools, and are selling high, than it may increase your  appeal, but at the end of the day it all depends on who your buyer is and what they are looking for.

Are You Creating a Money Pit?

This can be what a lot of potential home buyers think of when they see a pool in the back yard and don’t understand what the actual costs of maintenance are. They may see the entertainment possibilities, but also think about the associated liability.

It’s important to educate people on what they can expect and what maintenance can run – usually about $3,000 to $5,000 a year.

At the end of the day there is a 50/50 chance that a pool will enhance the value of your property. Pools are a lot of work, but can also be a great source of enjoyment.  If you want one for your own pleasure – dive in!

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We are now going to take things to the other side. Here are some ideas to make your back yard a sanctuary, or and a great & casual place for people to enjoy.

Outside Living Room

 If you have a deck or a patio, some comfortable, weather resistnat furniture can transform it into an outdoor living space. Get brightly colored pillows and an outside area rug to make it have a fresh yet cozy feel. If possible invest in a small fire pit for all to sit around and enjoy.

Flowers On The Fence!

 Make use of your fence by hanging flower baskets. They will naturally brighten things up. These baskets are also very easy to maintain and can last all season long.

Walk This Way

If you are having lawn troubles you can disguise them. Place nice stones and make a walkway leading into your backyard, having an end point at the patio or continue to a focal point, such as a fountain or special garden.

Waterfalls

If you haven’t already installed a waterfall, it might be worth some thought.  It will not only make you backyard feel like and oasis, but also give it that modern Asian feel. It’s calming and really ties everything together.

Meet Me In The Gazebo

 Who doesn’t love a Gazebo. They’re great retreat for relaxing or an intimate spot to entertain friends with some wine and hors d’oevres.

Enjoy!

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Here’s a list of some ideas that may be helpful when hosting a summer get together at your home, and things to help make it hassle-free.

Hosting is all about welcoming people! You want to make sure your home is inviting, and fresh , whether you live in a house, condo or apartment. This can be one of the easiest times of year to invite people over and I hope you find these tips helpful.

Let’s Get Things Ready

 Do: Make sure your home is clean & ready for your guests’ arrival. You want to welcome them with the same feeling they get when they are on vacation – everything ready and all they have to do is enjoy.

Don’t:  Stress about not having enough time. Focus on the areas that will get the most traffic. Close doors to any bedrooms or rooms that are too messy to get done in time.

Cool and Breezy

Do: Make your home comfortable, if it’s a hot day keep the house as cool as possible. Have your air conditioning on or a fan blowing, no one likes to be sticky or feel hot. If you’re hosting outdoors, don’t worry we have a tip for that in our next blog!

Don’t: Overly make yourself crazy, just use what you have – whether it’s central air, fans or open windows it’s ok, you’re not hosting the queen of England and your friends will understand.

Give The House “The Look”

 Do: It’s nice to have your home represent the season. Make sure to get some fresh flowers, and if you can decorate with lighter summer curtains and colorful pillows, that’s a bonus. Bright or pastel colors can make a space feel light & breezy.

Don’t: Blow your whole budget. Less can be more and sometimes DIY projects are the best. Pinterest and other similar websites can become your new best friend.

Next week we’ll continue with some fresh ideas to liven & lighten up your next get together.

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