Windsor Public Schools -

Dr. Hill with technology teachers Rebecca Zenczak and Steve Rodonis at the Winter Wonderland Festival, where families enjoyed the debut of the new planetarium.

Windsor, CT – Windsor Public Schools is reaching for the stars with the launch of Connecticut’s first portable, immersive planetarium designed for instructional use in a public school setting. This groundbreaking initiative, led by Rebecca Zenczak, the district’s Instructional Technology Specialist, and supported by Dr. Noha Hady and the Instructional Services team, brings museum-quality experiences directly to the students of Windsor.

Students and teachers marvel at the new portable planetarium during a recent STEM lesson at John F. Kennedy School.

This state-of-the-art mobile planetarium is a transformative tool for educators, allowing them to integrate hands-on, inquiry-based learning into the curriculum. While initially introduced to bring Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to life, it has quickly expanded to enhance lessons in history and other subjects, offering students a fully immersive and inclusive educational experience.

Dr. Hady poses with the OFCP and Technology teams. Pictured from left to right: Thaslima Thamana, Jenifer Clarke, Dr. Hady, Rebecca Zenczak, Stephen Rodonis, and Dr. Mallery.

Dr. Noha Hady, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, shared: "The addition of this planetarium exemplifies Windsor Public Schools' dedication to creating transformative learning experiences. By integrating this innovative tool into our curriculum, we are not only aligning with state standards but also inspiring students to think critically, collaborate, and explore new horizons. This initiative is truly taking Windsor to new heights."

Windsor Public Schools families eagerly await their turn to experience the captivating immersive show with their children at the Winter Wonderland event.

District families recently had the opportunity to experience the planetarium firsthand during the Town Recreation's Winter Wonderland event, which drew a crowd of over 300 participants. This community showcase underscored the district’s commitment to fostering a love of learning both in and beyond the classroom.

To dive deeper into the story behind this stellar addition, check out the latest episode of the district podcast, Chat and Chill with Super. Hill. Dr. Hill hosts Rebecca Zenczak in an engaging conversation about how the planetarium is transforming instruction and inspiring students across Windsor Public Schools.

🎧 Listen now: https://www.podserve.fm/episodes/169131/exploring-the-stars-bringing-the-universe-to-windsor.mp3

Windsor Public Schools continues to lead the way in innovation, setting the bar high for excellence in education. The mobile planetarium is not just a tool—it’s a testament to Windsor's vision of preparing every student to excel in an ever-changing global society.

For media inquiries, please contact: Gianna Gill
Head of Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator 
Windsor Public Schools
Email: ggill@windsorct.org
Phone: 860-709-3858