thankful Thursday

thankful Thursday At Windsor Public Schools, we believe that developing the genius in every child means nurturing both hearts and minds. This week, we celebrate two extraordinary educators whose work exemplifies kindness, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping students thrive: Dr. Paul Pierce, District Strings Educator, and Christine Donatone, Speech & Language Pathologist at CBTA.


Paul Pierce

🎶 Dr. Paul Pierce: Teaching Music with Heart

Dr. Paul Pierce is more than just a strings teacher—he’s a true force of warmth, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of music. Working across multiple buildings, Dr. Pierce ensures that strings education is accessible to all students, regardless of background or experience. Whether a beginner or advanced player, every child in his care feels seen, supported, and inspired.


His kindness is contagious. Dr. Pierce greets students and colleagues alike with a smile that instantly lifts spirits and reminds us of the good in the world. He is endlessly curious, open to learning from everyone—including his students—and models humility and lifelong learning in every interaction.


Through his instruction, students develop not just technical skills, but also self-discipline, confidence, and creative expression—core components of Windsor’s Instructional Core Wheel and our district’s mission to build lifelong learners.


christine donatone

🗣️ Christine Donatone: Creating Opportunities for Independence


At CBTA, Christine Donatone is a quiet powerhouse of support, skill, and student-centered care. As a Speech & Language Pathologist, she works alongside students and staff to ensure every learner has the tools to express themselves, grow in confidence, and gain the independence they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.


Christine’s work often happens behind the scenes—but its impact is felt everywhere. She collaborates closely with colleagues to develop strategies that meet each student’s unique communication needs, always focused on building real-world skills that matter.


Her role directly strengthens the Instructional Core by supporting language development and cognitive growth, helping students access the curriculum and interact meaningfully with others—key foundations for lifelong learning.

Whether it’s through the harmony of a bow on strings or the quiet triumph of a student gaining their voice, Dr. Pierce and Christine Donatone are shaping lives every single day. Their commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and student empowerment is what makes Windsor Public Schools shine.

 Join us in celebrating these two remarkable educators for all the ways they bring our mission to life.