Inspiring updates from Kurn Hattin Home and School for Children
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MARCH 2026 | KURN HATTIN eNEWSLETTER
As winter fades and we march into spring, there’s a renewed sense of energy across the Kurn Hattin campus. This time of year is always about forward motion, with new experiences, growing confidence, and opportunities for our students to explore, connect, and give back.
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll see that momentum in action, from students engaging with their community and learning through hands-on experiences, to the excitement building around our first-ever Bright Futures 5K on May 16. Each story reflects the same idea: when children are supported, encouraged, and believed in, they begin to see what they can do, and who they can be.
Thank you for being part of the community that makes this work possible.
With gratitude,
Sue Kessler
Executive Director
A Partnership That Powers Possibility
Kurn Hattin Executive Director Sue Kessler recently visited the New Haven Colony of the National Society of New England Women (NSNEW), where she was warmly welcomed and presented with an Adopt-a-Classroom gift supporting our SmartLab.
During her visit, Sue shared Kurn Hattin’s mission and a video highlighting the experiences of our students, helping members better understand both the challenges children face and the impact of our work. As New Haven Colony President Lynn Alexander shared, “The program helped us understand why children are at Kurn Hattin and how Kurn Hattin can change their lives.”
NSNEW, founded to promote fellowship, preserve New England heritage, and support charitable and educational initiatives, has been a dedicated partner for decades, supporting everything from classroom initiatives to programs like the Caught Being Good Store. Kurn Hattin is also honored to be the special project of NSNEW President General Shannon Cowles Logue (2023–2026), with a focus on supporting music and the SmartLab.
We are deeply grateful for this partnership, one that continues to expand opportunities and brighten futures for our students.
Taking the Stage at Keene’s Colonial Theatre to Explore What’s Possible
Kurn Hattin 8th graders recently went behind the scenes at Keene’s Colonial Theatre, discovering the many careers that bring live performances to life.
Guided by Director of Education & Community Engagement Vicky Pittman, students explored everything from backstage spaces to center stage, learning about roles in production, stage management, marketing, and more.
The highlight? Stepping into the spotlight themselves to direct a spontaneous performance and sing a cappella under the lights.
“These students were absolutely fabulous—so engaged and eager to learn,” Pittman shared. As one student remarked, live performances can “stimulate creativity within us.”
Experiences like this are part of Kurn Hattin’s Career Awareness Program, helping students explore new possibilities and imagine where their interests might take them.
Farm to School in Action:
Maple Sugaring
As winter gives way to spring, maple sugaring season returned to Kurn Hattin, bringing hands-on learning outdoors.
Students tapped trees, hung buckets, and learned how sap flows during late winter’s freeze and thaw cycles. Along the way, they explored the science, history, and patience behind turning sap into maple syrup.
This experience is part of Kurn Hattin’s growing Farm to School program, connecting students to the land, local traditions, and the natural rhythms of New England. By taking part from tree to syrup, children gain a deeper understanding of agriculture and food systems.
Just as important, the process brings the community together, with students and staff working side by side to build skills, teamwork, and a shared respect for the land.
Momentum in Motion This Spring
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, children at Kurn Hattin are already experiencing the impact of giving in a tangible way. They’re riding brand-new bikes and discovering the joy, confidence, and freedom that come with them.
What began as a Giving Tuesday goal quickly became something real in the lives of our students. That momentum continues to build.
As we look toward the close of our fiscal year, we’re carrying that energy forward with our first-ever Bright Futures 5K on May 16, kicking off Kurn Hattin Day right here on campus. It’s one more way our community is coming together to support the children who call Kurn Hattin home.
Every gift this spring helps provide the structure, safety, and encouragement children need to thrive. It helps create a place where they are seen, supported, and believed in … sometimes before they believe in themselves.
Your support truly makes a difference. Join us in keeping the momentum
going.
at kurnhattin.org/donate.
First Kurn Hattin
5K & 3K Run/Walk
Set for May 16
Runners, walkers, and community supporters will gather at Kurn Hattin Home and School for Children on May 16 for the school’s inaugural 5K Run and 3K Walk, part of the annual Kurn Hattin Day celebration.
The course winds through campus fields, wooded paths, and the historic grounds where children live and learn. This event also features a crowdfunding model, where participants create personal fundraising pages and invite others to support their efforts. Each participant helps raise funds and awareness for Kurn Hattin’s mission.
“Each person who signs up becomes part of something bigger,” said Executive Director Sue Kessler. “As they enjoy the run or walk, they’re also helping introduce others to the children we serve.”
After the race, guests can enjoy lunch from the Westminster Volunteer Fire Department and a student concert, making it a full day of community and celebration.
Teams are already forming, including alumni, families, and local organizations. The event is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Savings Bank of Walpole.
Proceeds support Kurn Hattin’s education, residential care, and programs for children.
Sponsorship opportunities available!
Contact Erin Beaudry at ebeaudry@kurnhattin.org or 802-721-6914
Kurn Hattin holds the top-level rating from Charity Navigator, the largest independent charity evaluator in the U.S.
