This article is an excerpt from the Fall 2025 TMSCA newsletter. Download the full newsletter.
On the morning of September 2, the buses rumbled up our bumpy mountain road, bringing Talcott Mountain Academy students to their first day of the new school year. More than a few of our students were grinning from ear to ear, and the din of excitement amongst our students was palpable (and, yes, we imagine there was a similar feeling of excitement amongst parents and guardians off the mountain). It is not hyperbole to say that it is with this same excitement that we introduce this newsletter to you.
Through this newsletter, we are thrilled to share with you what has been and is happening on the mountaintop, stories of our alumni accomplishments, and ways in which you can help to support us in our continued efforts. We will share our newsletter with you in the fall, winter, and spring, and we hope you find it both informative and inspiring.
As we introduce this newsletter, I am also pleased to “introduce” to you our new mission statement, approved by the Board of Trustees just last month:
“We are a pioneering STEM institution where education, research, and outreach inspire and empower advanced and curious learners.”
As a community, we spent significant time over the past year thinking about, wrestling with, and ultimately settling on this statement. We feel strongly that it captures the fullness of our one-of-a-kind organization: a Science Center offering immersive STEM learning opportunities and outreach, an Academy that provides comprehensive schooling for advanced learners, and a newly formed Research Institute that will serve as a critical convening point between scientific research and STEM education. Fulfilling our mission is a tall order, and with your ongoing support, we will continue to inspire learners of all ages to be the innovators of tomorrow.
As you read this newsletter, we hope you find something that illuminates just how special this organization truly is. For our alumni, we hope that you will reminisce about the impact Talcott had on you, and we hope you will share those recollections with us. For our current students and families, we hope you will enjoy and be inspired by the stories of our alumni accomplishments. For all of our supporters, we hope you see the impact of your generosity and encouragement.
It’s an exciting time on the mountain. Thank you for the role you play in ensuring ongoing excitement, inspiration, and impact. As the year goes on, we look forward to sharing more exciting news with you, the Talcott family.
Gratefully,
Jeff Martin
Executive Director, Talcott Mountain Science Center & Academy