Blog: Voices from our work

CG Blog 2024-05-24T15:36:17-04:00
Featured Now

Introducing the Interim Director of Common Ground High School, Monique Frasier!

Common Ground Community: In advance of the 2024-25 school year, Common Ground High School (CGHS) welcomes Monique Frasier to the post of Interim School Director. After three years leading CGHS as School Director, Cherry Pacquette-Emmanuel made the decision to step away to prioritize the needs of her family, while remaining a part of the Common Ground community. Her successes as

August 9, 2024|Categories: Featured, High School|
Latest from the Urban Farm

The Best Farm: Common Ground Farm

By Christian Sarno, Common Ground Class of 2023 A lot of people in this world want to start their own farm to get their own fruits and vegetables, and not have to spend around 20

Latest from Our Staff
Latest from Our Campus
All Blog Posts

Common Ground is Seeking a Science Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Science Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 225 students form an inclusive, powerful

Common Ground is Seeking a Math Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Math Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 225 students form an inclusive, powerful

Common Ground Is Seeking a School Nurse

About Common Ground Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful community of learners and leaders. These students benefit from a

Seeking Environmental Leadership Coordinator (Part-Time)

About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful community of learners and leaders. These students benefit

Request for Proposals: Urban Forest Management

Common Ground is seeking proposals from independent contractors who can manage  implementation of key aspects of a forest management plan for Common Ground’s 20-acre campus and adjacent forested land. We seek a individual contractor or

Common Ground Board Meeting Agenda for August 26, 2024

August 26, 2024 AGENDA By Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86299828728?pwd=NTIJhLqcxv37vrOfqiatLvnDqe5klU.1 Meeting ID: 862 9982 8728 Passcode: 609432 Welcome  Public Comment (5:30) (two minutes per person for a total time limit of 30 minutes, or by email; see instructions

Common Ground Board Meeting Agenda for June 24, 2024

June 24, 2024 AGENDA By Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82984917713?pwd=NG5sZ0d2UmROVGVaYnUzeG1YR2djUT09 Meeting ID: 829 8491 7713 Passcode: 165927 Welcome  Public Comment (6:00) (two minutes per person for a total time limit of 30 minutes, or by email; see instructions

Common Ground Board Meeting Agenda for May 20, 2024

May 20, 2024 AGENDA By Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82984917713?pwd=NG5sZ0d2UmROVGVaYnUzeG1YR2djUT09 Meeting ID: 829 8491 7713 Passcode: 165927 Welcome  Public Comment (5:30) (two minutes per person for a total time limit of 30 minutes, or by email; see instructions

Common Ground Board Meeting Agenda for April 29, 2024

  April 29, 2024  By Zoom Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82984917713?pwd=NG5sZ0d2UmROVGVaYnUzeG1YR2djUT09 Meeting ID: 829 8491 7713 Passcode: 165927 Welcome  Public Comment (5:30) (two minutes per person for a total time limit of 30 minutes, or by

Celebrating Black History, Present & Futures at CG!

Written by Aurora Coon, CG's Manager of Development & Communications. Photos and videos by Aurora, After School Media Club facilitator Amanda Byam, and Media Club students Camila, Alex, and Aurelio. Common Ground seeks to celebrate

Common Ground Board Meeting Agenda for Nov. 27, 2023

This Meeting will be held By Zoom  Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82984917713?pwd=NG5sZ0d2UmROVGVaYnUzeG1YR2djUT09 November 27, 2023 Welcome  Public Comment (5:30) (two minutes per person for a total time limit of 30 minutes, or by email; see instructions

Feast from the Fields ’23 – Saturday Photos

Thank you for joining Feast from the Fields ’23. It was an honor to gather with YOU, our joyous and powerful community. Please enjoy these event photos taken by Joel Callaway Photography. We’d also love

Feast for Families ’23 – Sunday Photos

Thank you for joining Feast for Families ’23. We are so grateful for YOU, our joyous & powerful community! Help us reach our Feast Goal by making a gift HERE of any size! Please enjoy

CT Summer at the Museum – FREE Admission for Kids

  Common Ground was recently awarded a grant in the amount of $7,000 from Connecticut Humanities to support its participation in the CT Summer at the Museum initiative. The program invites Connecticut children ages 18

Sustainable Partnerships & Community Spaces!

Firehouse 12 recently reopened to the public for the first time since 2020! This unique space is a delight of the senses – a thoughtfully designed jazz and experimental music venue, recording studio, and bar/restaurant.

A Helping Hand for Latinx Community in Healthcare

Our 12th graders at Common Ground have been working on their senior capstone projects since September! Each student chose a topic they’re passionate about to research and take action on. One of our seniors, Leslie

The Best Farm: Common Ground Farm

By Christian Sarno, Common Ground Class of 2023 A lot of people in this world want to start their own farm to get their own fruits and vegetables, and not have to spend around 20

Meet Victor Rios, Student Support Manager!

Victor Rios is the Student Support Manager at Common Ground.  He has guided students through high school academically, and emotionally, for years.  Educational Change intern Amelia Bragg-Phillips interviewed Mr. Rios to get an idea of

Meet Waleska Arroyo, Common Ground Kitchen Assistant!

Meet Waleska Arroyo, Common Ground’s Kitchen Assistant By Izabella Eichensehr, CG '23, Education Change Intern On a recent Wednesday morning, I asked Waleska Arroyo if I could interview her for the Common Ground blog –

Meet Ms. Marisa Misbach, Common Ground English Teacher!

Meet Ms. Misbach, Common Ground English Teacher! By Luis Diaz, Angel Mercado, Jetaly Traverso, Amelia Bragg-Phillips, and Izabella Eichensehr, Education Change Interns Ms. Marisa Misbach joined our team in November, stepping in to teach English

Sugaring in the Winter that Wasn’t…

By Mark Loalbo - Site and Facilities Manager Before we begin...it is important to recognize that maple sugaring is an indigenous tradition that precedes the colonization of North America. We are grateful to the people

Meet Our Green Jobs Corps Coordinator, Ana Reyes!

By Amelia Bragg-Phillips, Izabella, Angel Mercado, Jetaly Traverso Ana Reyes (she/they) joined Common Ground this spring as the Green Jobs Corps Coordinator.  Green Jobs Corps has been a program at Common Ground for more than

Special Notice and Agenda: Board Meeting for Expulsion Hearing

Special Notice and Agenda: Board Meeting for Expulsion Hearings New Haven Ecology Project March 1, 2023 1:00pm Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86509980540?pwd=UXZsa1RkNGhqRm5OSFlTU1BOclJsdz09 Meeting ID: 865 0998 0540 Passcode: 462919 PLEASE NOTE: In order to comply with adjusted CT

Meet Nicole Pertelesi, Common Ground Art Teacher

Nicole Pertelesi joined our team in fall 2022 as our art teacher -- and brings so much to our small school community! Learn more about her in this interview with our Educational Change Intern team,

Meet Ms. McKinnon, Common Ground Special Educator

We're so excited to have Ms. Briana McKinnon on our team at Common Ground this year. Her ability to build loving, accountable relationships with our high school students, her background in math and business, and

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Support Educator

Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 225 students form an inclusive, powerful community of learners and leaders. These students benefit from a unique learning environment:

Welcoming Ms. Debora Feliz, 9th Grade Special Educator!

By Education Change Intern Team Members Jayden Carty, Taite Popkin, Madison Acampora, Sarah Reynolds, and Joel Tolman  Ms. Debora Feliz joined Common Ground’s Special Education team this fall – working in particular with 9th graders,

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Site and Facilities Manager

Job Title:  Site and Facilities Manager Organization Overview Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful community of learners and leaders.

Meet Ms. Jacobs, Common Ground’s New School Counselor

Ms. Tashida Jacobs joined Common Ground this Fall as our school counselor! While Common Ground has always supported students in traveling paths to college success, meaningful careers, powerful leadership, and happy healthy lives, this is

Common Ground is Seeking a Part Time After School Partner

Part Time After School Partner Immediate opening for SY 22-23 Job Description  About Common Ground High School Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students

Meet the Chefs of Feast 2022!

  At Common Ground, we deeply value everyone who makes up our local food ecosystem. These community partners hold the same beliefs that we do - that food can be a celebration, rooted in culture

CGHS 2022-23 COVID & Health Update from Nurse Keith

Hello Common Ground Students and Families, This is Keith Riley, Common Ground's School Nurse, and I would like to give everyone some updates from the health office. Health Documents: We are still missing many documents, including

Common Ground is Seeking an Environmental Educator

Job Title: Environmental Educator  Organization Overview Common Ground is a center for environmental learning in New Haven, Connecticut. Farm meets forest meets city on Common Ground’s 20 acre campus at the base of West Rock

Common Ground is Seeking A Student Affairs Manager

Common Ground Is Seeking A Manager of Student Affairs About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive,

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking A Full Time Health Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Health Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking Summer School Teachers

Common Ground Is Seeking Summer School Teachers in Science About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive,

Common Ground is Seeking a Kitchen Assistant

Vacancy Announcement Kitchen Assistant Part Time: Monday - Friday 10a - 2pm (10 month position) Start Date: August 1, 2022 Application Deadline: July 15, 2022 Salary: $17.50 per/hr Location: New Haven, CT About Common Ground

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a School Counselor

Common Ground Is Seeking a School Counselor: College & Guidance About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an

Common Ground is Seeking a History Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time History Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

Meet Ms. Busby, Common Ground Special Educator

An interview with Jayla Turner, Educational Change Intern, and Joel Tolman, Director of Impact & Engagement Ms. Darlitha Busby joined Common Ground’s special education team early in the school year, but she’s the kind of

Common Ground is Seeking a Mobile Market Assistant

Mobile Market Assistant  Part Time Seasonal Position, Early July-Mid November 2022 About Common Ground: Common Ground is a center for environmental learning in New Haven, Connecticut. Farm meets forest meets city on Common Ground’s 20

Common Ground is Seeking a Reading Interventionist

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Reading Interventionist About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

Meet Your College Access Advisor, Danielle Dixon 

Interview by Liliana McIntosh, Mikela Jones, and Jayla Turner, Education Change Interns At Common Ground, we believe that EVERY student can & should graduate college ready, with admissions to colleges that match their passions and

Common Ground Board of Directors Meeting Minutes: Dec. 20, 2021

Link to: Zoom Recording Password:  Fl%Na8Y&   New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes December 20, 2021   Board Members present:  Bob Parker, Charles Negaro, Christopher Hayes, Joseph Melendez, Kyeen Andersson, Beth Klingher, Terri Snell,

Common Ground Board of Directors Meeting Minutes: Nov. 22, 2021

Link to: Zoom Recording New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes November 22,2021 Board Members present:  Bob Parker, Peter Ludwig, Errol Saunders, Christopher Hayes, Charles Negaro, Terri Snell, Kyeen Andersson, Carly Osburne, Deloris Vaughn, Joseph

Common Ground Board of Directors Meeting Minutes: Sept. 27, 2021

PLEASE NOTE: In order to comply with adjusted CT Open Meeting laws, this Zoom meeting will be recorded and posted on the Common Ground website Zoom Recording: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/GkJ9SRU4F2ripZULgdWzaFW5eJri5NTrGUCrDb0Qv3V5GT9IOH8SXI9Skj3W9E2m.ndKwRO1xIx37GJFS Passcode: D#dR5NH@ New Haven Ecology Project Board

Welcoming Gioia Connell to Common Ground

  Common Ground is thrilled to welcome Gioia Connell to our Board of Directors. Gioia is a New Haven based sustainability specialist and design professional with deep experience bridging systems thinking, urban ecology, and interdisciplinary

Common Ground is Seeking a P/T Compost Program Coordinator

Job Title: Common Ground (CG) Compost Program Coordinator (Temporary; P/T) Organization Overview Common Ground (CG) is a center for environmental learning in New Haven, Connecticut. Farm meets forest meets city on CG’s 20 acre campus

Meet the Chefs of Feast 2021!

  At Common Ground, we deeply value everyone who makes up our local food ecosystem. These community partners hold the same beliefs that we do - that food can be a celebration, rooted in culture

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Part Time Spanish Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Part-Time Spanish Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Support Educator

Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful community of learners and leaders. These students benefit from a unique learning environment:

Common Ground is Seeking a Special Education Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Special Education Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive,

DRAFT Board of Directors Minutes- May 24, 2021

PLEASE NOTE: In order to comply with adjusted CT Open Meeting laws, this Zoom meeting will be recorded and posted on the Common Ground website New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes May 24, 2021

Nature Notes 6/1/21

In our last Nature Notes of the spring, we discuss lady's slippers, picnics, and fireflies. Happy summer!

Nature Notes 5/24/21

This week, we learn about the short-lived mayfly, plant seeds, and visit Gilette Castle!

Common Ground is Seeking a Math Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Math Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 225 students form an inclusive, powerful

Nature Notes 5/17/21

Baltimore Orioles are nesting, make leaf and flower prints, and visit our baby goats!

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking an Art Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time Art Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking an English Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking A Full-Time English Language Arts Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an

Nature Notes 4/5/21

Robins are back! Bird watching, tree buds, and chicks round out this spring edition.

Keeping summer safe

  By Melissa Spear Executive Director This summer at Common Ground, our staff’s ability to handle emergencies has been put to the test. And I have observed them passing with flying colors. Common Ground staff

Nature Notes 3/29/21

Purple leaves, painting with soil, and checking out the animals who live at Common Ground!

Sugarin’ at Common Ground

By Mark Loalbo - Site and Facilities Manager Before we begin...it is important to recognize that maple sugaring is an indigenous tradition that precedes the colonization of North America. We are grateful to the people

Nature Notes 3/23/21

This week, we're learning about vernal pools and salamanders emerging for spring! Also, make seed balls for some guerrilla gardening and visit the Giant Steps at East Rock Park!

Nature Notes 3/15/21

This week, learn about red-bellied woodpeckers, try some sun and shadow art, and take a tour of our sugar shack!

Nature Notes 3/8/21

Did you know that, besides being stinky, skunk cabbage blooms at this time of year because it can actually melt the snow? Plus, plant seeds and explore caves!

Nature Notes 3/1/21

In this week's Nature Notes: winter insects, flower dissection, and NatureYear students discuss the tools of maple sugaring

Nature Notes 2/22/21

Walking around Common Ground this week, you'll see blue bags hanging on some of the trees. What are they? They're collecting maple sap, to be made into syrup! Learn more about maple sugaring here!

Nature Notes 2/16/21

In this week's Nature Notes, learn about smelly foxes and how to identify a maple tree in the winter!

What You Need Wednesdays: High School Innovation

Reflecting on Wednesday, January 13th: By Joel Tolman A screen shot from a recent virtual workshop on comic book character drawing by CG alumn Marcel Farrel In December, CGHS recognized that our students

Nature Notes 2/8/21

This week is all about snow and winter - different textures of snow, a science experiment, winter at the wetland!

Nature Notes 2/1/21

In light of the weather today, this week is all about snow! Learn about animals sheltering in the subnivean layer (what on earth is that?), snow ice cream, and being a nature detective!

Nature Notes 1/25/21

In this week's nature notes, weeds in winter, praying mantis eggs, staying warm (as a bird), and art in the snow!

Nature Notes 1/19/21

In this week's Nature Notes, the chickadee's song announces spring, fire building, and a Sleeping Giant adventure!

New Year Nature Notes

What's happening in nature this week? Animals are adapting for winter - did you know frogs can freeze? Plus, ideas to get you and your children outside this winter!

Solstice Nature Notes 12/21/20

This week's Nature Notes are all about the Winter Solstice and the Great Conjunction! Learn what these two astronomical events are and how we can celebrate them!

Nature Notes 12/14/20

This week, Common Ground NatureYear and High School students visit the poultry yard together. Plus, needle ice, a shape hunt, and some gift ideas!

Nature Notes 12/7/20

We know bees make honey, but how do we get it out of the hive? Plus, why birds fly south for the winter - and why they don't - and some bird-friendly holiday decorations!

Common Ground is Seeking a Horticulturist/Groundskeeper

Job Description and Responsibilities: Horticulturist/Groundskeeper Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, part of a community organization that also operates a community environmental education center and urban farm. Located at the base

Nature Notes 11/30/20

Have you ever wondered what chipmunks do in the winter? Learn what goes on in their burrows, discover the beauty of mushroom spore prints, and take a visit to the beach in winter!

Nature Notes 11/23/20

Let's talk turkey! Learn about wild turkeys and visit the turkeys in our poultry yard. Plus, Alexa teaches us how to make a rose out of maple leaves!

Nature Notes

This week is all about worms! Check out Common Ground's worm bin with Tim, try some worm-y activities and learn how worms survive the winter.

Common Ground is Seeking An Environmental Science Teacher

Common Ground Is Seeking An Environmental Science Teacher About Common Ground High School  Common Ground High School is the nation’s longest-running environmental charter high school, founded in 1997. Our 230 students form an inclusive, powerful

DRAFT- Board of Directors Minutes: Oct. 26, 2020

PLEASE NOTE: In order to comply with adjusted CT Open Meeting laws, this Zoom meeting will be recorded and posted on the Common Ground website New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes October 26, 2020

Nature Notes 10/26/20

Learn about Witch Hazel and Virginia creeper, do some apple activities, check out what's going on under a log, and even watch a magic show!

Reflections, Recipes and More from Feast 2020

photo: chef kevin of KAWIT! filipino bbq, taken by joel callaway Dear Friends of Feast, If you attended Feast, you ate locally sourced and grown food, learned alongside talented local chefs, and hopefully

Nature Notes 10/19/20

This week's Nature Notes are all about acorns! Plus, learn about honey production and visit Gillette Castle!

Common Ground is Seeking a Full Time Development Associate

The New Haven Ecology Project/Common Ground Database and Research Development Associate – full time position Target Start Date: October 15, 2020 Location: New Haven, CT Organization Overview Common Ground is a center for learning and

Common Ground Board of Directors: August 13 Meeting Minutes

**For the full recording of this meeting please CLICK HERE, Password: cPp60S#M** New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors Special Meeting August 13, 2020 Board Members Present:  Kyeen Andersson, Wendy Battles, Michael Doolittle, Monica Maccera-Filppu,

Alumni Interview: Catching up with Charlie Dow

We recently caught up with Charlie Dow -- CG ‘14, University of New Haven Masters in Environmental Engineering ‘20 -- soon after he defended his thesis research, focused on a new process for dewatering algal

Board of Directors Minutes- June 2020

This is a draft edition of the Board of Directors Minutes to be approved at the Aug. 24th board meeting. **For the full recording of this meeting please CLICK HERE** New Haven Ecology Project Board

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes: May 2020

**Please click here for an audio recording of this meeting** New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Agenda May 26th Board Members Present:  Errol Saunders, Monica Maccera-Filppu, Bob Parker, Beth Klingher, Michael Doolittle, Deloris Vaughn, Brian

Common Ground High School is Seeking a Full Time Nurse

Common Ground High School seeks a full time School Nurse, Monday through Friday.  Overall responsibilities include the following: Facilitate routine health screenings Maintain student health records Provide student consultations while on campus. Other duties as

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- April 2020

New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes  April 27, 2020 (Conducted online by Zoom Meeting) **Please click here for a link to the audio recording of this meeting** Board Members Present: Wendy Battles, Errol Saunders,

Request for Bids: Park-Style Classroom Pavilion

New Haven Ecology Project is accepting bids until 3pm on Friday, May 15 for construction of a basic park-style classroom pavilion. All bids should be sent in PDF format to bids@nhep.com, and should include “Pavilion

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- March 2020

New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Minutes  March 23rd (Conducted online by Zoom Meeting) Board Members Present: Kyeen Andersson, Wendy Battles, Michael Doolittle, Monica Maccera Filppu, Beth Klingher, Charlie Negaro, Bob Parker, Babz Rawls-Ivy, Errol

Common Ground’s Inspiring Response to Covid-19

By: Audrey Nefores, Development Manager for Supporter Engagement Common Ground Student enjoying our East Asian and Chinese solidarity cafeteria lunch! Staff at Common Ground began responding to COVID-19 and its impact on the

Learn More: 2020 Census

The Census is an extremely important endeavor for our City and our country. Not only does the Census generate important statistics that communities and businesses rely on in day-to-day operations and strategic planning, but Census

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- January 2020

Minutes of the Board of Directors January 27, 2020 Meeting called to order by Wendy Battles at 5:36 Board Members Present: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Michael Doolittle, Charles Negaro, Brian Springsteen, Kyeen Andersson, Monica Maccera

Common Ground is Seeking Environmental Educators

Job title: Environmental Educator Organization Overview Common Ground is a center for environmental learning in New Haven, Connecticut. Farm meets forest meets city on Common Ground’s 20 acre campus at the base of West Rock

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda: Jan. 27, 2020

New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Agenda January 27, 2020 Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval (5:40) Minutes of the December 16th Board meeting (Secretary) Revised bylaws with changes required by SDE 19-20 Employee Handbook

Three Reasons to Attend the CG Farm & Garden Conference

Every Summer, Fall and Winter The Common Ground Farm and Schoolyards Program hosts a day of learning perfect for the School Educator, Backyard Gardener, small scale Farmer, curious Food Explorer or Food Justice Activist! We

Spending Time In Nature Is Good For You

By Rebecca Holcombe, Director of Community Programs Yale recently published an article that surveyed research concluding that spending just two hours per week in nature can result in feeling physically and mentally healthier. This winter,

Common ground Board of Directors Minutes: Dec. 16, 2019

Minutes of the Board of Directors Dec. 16 2019   Meeting called to order by Bob Parker at 5:38.    Board Members Present: Kyeen Andersson, Bob Parker, Michael Doolittle, Beth Klingher, Monica Maccera Filppu, Charles

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda: Dec. 16, 2019

New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Agenda December 16th Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval (5:40) Minutes of the November 25th Board Meeting (Secretary) Invoices Needing Approval Thurston Foods ($7,879.72) Finance Committee Report (Treasurer) (5:45)

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes: Nov. 25, 2019

Minutes of the Board of Directors Nov. 25, 2019   Meeting called to order by Wendy Battles at 5:35   Board Members Present: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Charles Negaro, Michael Doolittle, Beth Klingher, Ilene Crawford,

There’s Always More to Learn

By Monica Maccera Filppu What I thought I knew About a year ago, Common Ground put out a call for people to apply to be the next Executive Director. It looked like this: Executive Director Position

FILLED: Common Ground is Seeking a Certified Biology Teacher

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a passionate, creative, outstanding certified Biology teacher. This

Common Ground is Seeking a CT Schoolyards Program Manager

Job title: CT Schoolyards Program Manager Program Description Common Ground’s CT Schoolyards Program supports teachers in integrating outdoor learning and play into their school. Core CT Schoolyards activities include: Consultation, design, installation, and ongoing maintenance

How does Common Ground matter to you?

Aeryn Boyer at Open Farm Day By Kimball Cartwright, Director of Development A generous anonymous supporter will match, up to $10,000, 1:1, all individual gifts of up to $1,000 that come in between

A November Day at Common Ground High School

by Joel Tolman, Director of Impact & Engagement What’s a typical day like for the 224 students at Common Ground High School? This time of year at Common Ground, as the weather snaps cold … 

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes: October 2019

Minutes of the Board of Directors October 28, 2019 Board Members Present: Beth Klingher, Ilene Crawford, Michael Doolittle, Babz Rawsl Ivy, Wendy Battles, Monica Maccera Filppu, Kyeen Andersson, Errol Saunders, Charlie Negaro, Brian Springsteen Staff

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking an Assistant Chef

Job Title: Assistant Chef (Full-time, Temporary, with benefits, November 15-March 31) Organization Overview Common Ground is a center for learning and leadership, inviting people across ages and identities to connect to their urban environment, build

I/We love Common Ground because . . .

By Kimball Cartwright, Director of Development Kimball Cartwright loves Common Ground Your (un)selfie, this November, can help Common Ground leverage $10,000 for all its amazing programs! Monica Maccera Fillpu loves Common Ground

Charter School Renewal Update

By Monica Maccera Fillpu On Thursday, October 10th, the CT State Department of Education (SDE) hosted a public hearing at Wilbur Cross High School for the purpose of hearing testimony relevant to Common Ground High

What makes a leader a leader?

An interview with Elaine Blanck, by Kimball Cartwright, Director of Development Elaine Blanck, CG Outdoor Leadership Teacher "Ever wonder why Fortune 100 corporations send their executives on survival trips into the woods?" Elaine

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda- October 2019

New Haven Ecology Project Board Meeting Agenda October 28, 2019 Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval                       Minutes of the September 23rd board meeting (Secretary) Code of Conduct Finance Committee  Report (Treasurer) Finance Report Summary Sheet

Calling All Artisans and Crafters 2019

The Winter Festival is coming up on Saturday, December 14 from 10am-2pm. We are currently accepting crafters who’d like to table at this event. To register, please complete this form and then use the PayPal

Common Ground is Seeking a Full-Time Special Education Teacher

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a full-time Special Education teacher. This teacher will

Common Ground’s Board of Directors Minutes- August 2019

Board of the New Haven Ecology Project August 26, 2019 Welcome Board: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Monica Maccera Filppu, Brian Springsteen, Charles Negaro, Kyeen Anderson, Ilene Crawford, Beth Klingher, Jane Lee, Michael Doolittle, Terri Snell,

Executive Director Reflections – September 2019

by Monica Maccera Filppu, Executive Director Transitions are hard. They take you out of your comfort zone and throw off your balance. I’m reminded of this every fall, when the new school year starts and

Common Ground Board of Director’s Agenda- August 2019

Board of the New Haven Ecology Project MEETING AGENDA August 26, 2019 Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval                       Minutes – June 24, 2019 Revised NHEP Board Bylaws Student Confidentiality Policy   Accounting Manual Employee Handbook

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- June 2019

June 24, 2019 Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes   Present: Wendy Battles, Beth Klingher, Michael Doolittle, Jane Lee, Brian Springsteen, Errol Saunders, Kerry Lord, Charles Negaro, Terri Snell   Regrets: Bob Parker, Kyeen Anderson,

What do you do with a School Garden in the summer?

Suzannah Holsenbeck, CT Schoolyards Program Manager The CT Schoolyards Program frequently hears the question: what do you do with school gardens in the summer when schools aren’t in session? It’s an excellent question and points

Teaching Our Cities 2019

Expertise comes from everywhere By Kimball Cartwright, Director of Development School officially closed in mid-June but for many Common Ground educators and peers from three other schools across the Northeast U.S., the summer was a

CG Grad is back to lead the next generation!

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate Recent hire Crystal Fernandez is no stranger to Common Ground, she’s a 2005 alumnae who brings eleven years of non-profit community based experience working with youth. Her focus? Youth Leadership,

The Mobile Market is Back!

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate Alonzo gets help selecting his scallions. In 2012 a team of Common Ground high school seniors focused their senior project on food insecurity for the elderly.  After surveying

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- May 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors May 20, 2019 Present: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Michael Doolittle, Brian Springsteen, Errol Saunders, Jane Lee, Terri Snell, Charles Negaro, Beth Klingher, Ilene Crawford, Kyeen

This is Shakespeare……CG Style!

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate This past semester, as we reported in a previous blog post, Common Ground students took a college level Shakespeare course.  They studied Julius Caesar, and in true thespian fashion, took

Welcoming Common Ground’s new Executive Director

On July 15, Monica Maccera Filppu will join Common Ground as our Executive Director -- leading the community nonprofit organization that operates Common Ground High School, Urban Farm, and Environmental Education Center. Monica will steer

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda- April 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors April 22, 2019 Agenda Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval Minutes - March 25, 2019 Finance Committee Finance Dashboard HR Report Organizational Updates Program Dashboard

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda- May 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors  May 20, 2019 Agenda Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval Minutes – April 22, 2019 Minutes, Executive Session – May 6, 2019 Finance Committee Finance

Common Ground Board of Directors Agenda- June 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors  June 24, 2019, Room 103 5:30-7:30pm Agenda Welcome Public Participation Business Requiring Approval                       Minutes – May 20, 2019 Limited English Proficiency Program polic Individualized Education

Common Ground is Seeking an Environmental Educator-FILLED

Job title:Environmental Educator Organization Overview Common Ground is a center for environmental learning in New Haven, Connecticut. Farm meets forest meets city on Common Ground’s 20 acre campus at the base of West Rock Ridge.

FILLED-Common Ground is Seeking a School Social Worker

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a full-time passionate, creative, and certified School Social

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- April 2019

New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors April 22, 2019 Present: Kyeen Andersson, Wendy Battles, Mike Doolittle, Jane Lee, Kerry Lord, Charles Negaro, Bob Parker, Errol Saunders, Terri Snell, Brian Springsteen Regrets: Ilene Crawford, Babz

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- March 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors March 25, 2019 Present: Wendy Battles, Robert Parker, Beth Klingher, Michael Doolittle, Kerry Lord, Charles Negaro, Kyeen Andersson, Errol Saunders, Babz Rawls Ivy, Terri Snell,

How do you get from Philly to Common Ground?

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate for Special Events and Communications When you first meet Brother Tommy (or Tommy Joshua Caison as he’s also known), you’re welcomed with an enigmatic smile and a generosity of

Dual Enrollment (1+1= more than 2)

By Brian Kelahan, College and Career Teacher Common Ground’s population of “Dualists” is growing, representing more than 15% of the student population! Of course, a “dualist” is not a misspelling of a different word

Common Ground in the News!

Common Ground's Schoolyards Program and Beecher School were in the New Haven Register today. Great photos and article on the importance of combining outdoor exploration and education! Read the full article at this link.

It’s Spring! And it’s time to Re-Awaken your Garden

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate for Special Events and Communications Spring is Here!! And that means it’s time for Common Ground’s Annual Seedling sale!  Common Ground grows nearly 10,000 lbs of fresh produce annually, including

CG Students are Mixing it Up!

By Halima Flynn, Development Associate for Special Events and Communications Once a semester, CG mixes it up and students get to design their day with the help of facilitators like Z Bell and Disha

Common Ground Has A New Mission Statement

By Joel Tolman, Director of Impact & Engagement Nearly 30 years ago, when a group of educators, environmental activists, and city residents were dreaming of the organization that has grown into Common Ground, they wrote

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- February 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors February 25, 2019 Present: Robert Parker, Beth Klingher, Michael Doolittle, Charles Negaro, Wendy Battles, Errol Saunders, Kyeen Andersson, Brian Springsteen, Ilene Crawford Staff: Betsy Sneath,

Common Ground is Seeking a Camp Nurse

Common Ground Camp is a farm and nature based day camp in New Haven, CT. Campers ages 4 – 13 enjoy games, cooking, hiking, imaginative play, art, music, and outdoor adventures! We serve approximately 300

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- January 2019

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors January 28, 2019 Present: Wendy Battles, Charles Negaro, Brian Springsteen, Errol Saunders, Babz Rawls-Ivy, Michael Doolittle, Beth Klingher Staff: Liz Cox, Elena Augusewicz, Deborah Greig,

Common Ground is Seeking a Part Time School Nurse

Common Ground High School seeks a part time School Nurse, 4-5 hours/day, Monday through Friday.  Overall responsibilities include the following: Facilitate routine health screenings Maintain student health records Provide student consultations while on campus. Other

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- Dec. 2018

Meeting of the Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes Dec. 17, 2018   Board members: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Kyeen Andersson, Charles Negaro, Kerry Lord, Jane Lee, Ilene Crawford, Beth Klingher, Mike Doolittle, Errol Saunders,

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Certified English Teacher

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a passionate, creative, and certified English teacher. This

The best of…the CT Schoolyards Program 2018

Suzannah Holsenbeck and Kendra Dawsey CT Schoolyards Program The year is winding down and we're looking back and some of the best moments from the year. Below you'll find shorts stories and photos from some

Common Ground Board of Directors- Nov. 26, 2018 Minutes

Meeting of the New Haven Ecology Project Board of Directors November 26, 2018 Present: Wendy Battles, Bob Parker, Beth Klingher, Charles Negaro, Michael Doolittle, Brian Springsteen, Jane Lee, Staff: Kimball Cartwright, Deborah Greig, Henry Chisholm,

Join us for our Nature Playdate!

Rebecca Holcombe Director of Community Programs Join us December 30 for our Nature Play Date! Come play outside - science says it is good for you! Children who play in nature have reduced

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- October 2018

October 25, 2018 Present: Ky Anderson, Wendy Battles, Ilene Crawford, Mike Doolittle, Beth Klingher, Jane Lee, Kerry Lord, Charles Negaro, Bob Parker, Errol Saunders, Terry Snell, Melissa Spear Staff: Kimball Cartwright, Liz Cox, Deborah Greig,

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- September 2018

September 17, 2018 Minutes Present: Ilene Crawford, Bob Parker, Mike Doolittle, Melissa Spear, Brian Springsteen, Errol Saunders, Jane Lee, Kerry Lord, Kyeen Andersson, Babz Rawls-Ivy Staff: Z Bell, Joel Tolman, Elena Augusewicz, Stefan Christiansen, Henry

Give to Common Ground this Giving Tuesday

By Henry Chisholm Development Associate Helps us keep our Free Family Weekend Events free and offer more financial aid in our community programs by giving to CG this Giving Tuesday! Giving Tuesday is

What are Common Ground staff thankful for?

We’ve all got something to be thankful for. Regardless of the season, it’s always good to reflect on the good in our lives. Check out what CG staff are thankful for below! So much

CG Seeks an Environmental Educator

Program Description Common Ground offers children in grades K – 8 the opportunity to learn, explore, have adventures, and make friends on our urban farm and forest site, located in West Rock Park. Activities include

Position FILLED- CG Seeks a Support Educator

Common Ground High School -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a Support Educator. The SUPPORT EDUCATOR

Farm Share program thrives

Adam Kelley Interim Farm Manager The Farm Share Program concludes Thursday, Oct. 25. Through our student Farm Share Program, we're currently serving 15 families who receive 2-3 bags of fresh produce, herbs, and

Common Ground 10th Graders Break New Ground

by Joel Tolman, Director of Impact & Engagement The school year has just started, but Common Ground 10th grader Anthony Mitchell has already left the classroom behind. On the very first day of class, Anthony

Common Ground Board of Directors- June 2018 Minutes

Minutes of the Board of Directors Meeting June 25, 2018 Present: Ky Andersson, Wendy Battles, Ilene Crawford, Mike Doolittle, Beth Klingher, Jane Lee, Kerry Lord, Frank Mitchell, Charles Negaro, Bob Parker, Errol Saunders, Melissa Spear,

Henry Chisholm

Henry joined Common Ground in the Spring of 2018 as the Development Associate in charge of communications and special events. He spent the last 10 years as a reporter, covering stories for the Connecticut Post,

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- Jan. 2018

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes Jan. 8, 2018 Present: Melissa Spear, Wendy Battles, Michael Doolittle, Kerry Lord, Bob Parker, Beth Klingher, Claudia Merson, Jane Lee Staff: Elena Augusewicz, Joel Tolman, Kimball Cartwright, Rebecca Holcomb, Liz

CG Crews get the job done, have fun in the process

Henry Chisholm Development Associate  Back-to-school commercials are on full rotation, stores are putting out their fall displays and that glorious two and half month period known as summer vacation is almost over. Bummer.

Common Ground students work with artist Roberto Lugo on mural

Henry Chisholm Development Associate  Every Thursday the students in the Artspace Apprenticeship Program participated in “Thankful Thursdays.” The students lock arms and talk about what and who they’re thankful for. Artist Roberto Lugo was

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- May 2018

Board of Directors Meeting 5/21/18 Present: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Babz Rawls-Ivy, Claudia Merson, Joel Tolman, Jane Lee, Beth Klingher, Monique Frasier, Michael Doolittle, Melissa Spear, Kerry Lord, Frank Mitchell Staff: Elena Augusewicz, Brian Springsteen,

July Recipe of the Month: Shredded Beet and Kale Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Servings: 6 servings Author: Krissy Allori Ingredients   1 bunch of kale stems removed and leaves sliced thinly 5 small or 2 large red beets, peeled and grated 1 red onion peeled and sliced paper thin  1/4 teaspoon sea salt

FILLED- Common Ground seeks part-time Grants Associate

Organization Overview Common Ground is an educational center for environmental learning and leadership in New Haven, Connecticut, and dedicated to a more socially and environmentally sustainable society. Common Ground is uniquely positioned to do this.

Campus safety and security at Common Ground

Melissa Spear Executive Director  Spring is a busy time at Common Ground.  From my desk every morning I watch students arriving to school; NatureYear kids pass by as they skip up the hill to start

The Summer Farm and Garden Institute is June 23rd!

Suzannah Holsenbeck Schoolyards Manager Stop by Common Ground Saturday, June 23rd and you will find teachers, farmers, childcare providers, backyard gardeners, community members, school garden coordinators and Common Ground staff spread out around campus, learning

Position FILLED-Common Ground Seeks a Part-Time School Nurse

Common Ground High School seeks a part time School Nurse, 4-5 hours/day, Monday through Friday. Overall responsibilities include the following: • Facilitate routine health screenings • Maintain student health records • Provide student consultations while

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- April 2018

April 23, 2018 Present: Bob Parker, Wendy Battles, Babz Rawls-Ivy, Betsy Sneath, Michael Doolittle, Melissa Spear, Liz Cox, Beth Klingher, Monique Frasier, Joel Tolman Staff: Brian Springsteen, Henry Chisholm, Elena Augusewicz Regrets: Claudia Merson, Frank

Free Summer Meals! Comidas De Verano Gratis!

Free Summer Meals! Comidas De Verano Gratis! For Sites near you call 211 Text "CTmeals" to 877877 www.CTSummerMeals.org Childhood food insecurity remains at unacceptable levels across the country and children are most acutely at risk

The Great Give is on!

Henry Chisholm Development Associate Common Ground is participating in The Great Give and could really use YOUR help. Click on the link here and to get to our Great Give page. A small gift makes

FILLED- Common Ground is Seeking a Part-time Science Teacher

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, creating the next generation of successful college students and powerful community and environmental leaders -- is seeking a passionate, creative, part-time science teacher -- certified

FILLED- Common Ground Seeks Environmental Leadership Manager

Common Ground -- the nation’s oldest environmental charter high school, part of a community organization that also operates a community environmental education center and urban farm -- is seeking a passionate, creative, effective, inclusive Environmental

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes- March 2018

Common Ground Board of Directors Minutes March 26, 2018 Attending: Wendy Battles, Jane Lee, Michael Doolittle, Bob Parker, Monique Frasier, Melissa Spear, Kerry Lord, Beth Klingher, Babz Rawls-Ivy Staff: Rebecca Holcombe, Deborah Greig, Brian Springsteen,

Common Ground Podcast club has a lot to say!

 Henry Chisholm Development Associate The Podcast Club has a lot to say! Some interesting things are said in the attic of the high school when Common Ground students are working on their

Common Ground Dance Team wows crowds at Southern

 Sierra Vasquez CG Dance Team member The Common Ground Dance Team has the moves! The Common Ground dance team usually practices every Thursday after school and we create and practice the dance