Connect with Weather Event at Discovery Magnet School

Optimum Community partnered with The Weather Channel to bring a Connect with Weather event to fifth through eighth grade students at Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School. Governor Dannel Malloy and Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch participated in the event, along with Tom Champoux from the American Meteorological Society and On-Camera Meteorologist Mark Elliott. The fun and interactive event taught students about the science behind severe weather. Students learned about the latest technology used to predict weather patterns, were taught how to create a family emergency plan and were challenged to imagine what the weather will be like in the future. After a Q&A session, the event concluded with a presentation of $2,500 contributions to the school and the City of Bridgeport Reserve Corps. Program.

"My administration has made emergency preparedness, response, and recovery a top priority as we never know when the next inevitable emergency or disaster will affect our state,” said State Governor Malloy. "Today’s program from Optimum Community and The Weather Channel was not only creative and interesting, but helped students better understand the technology that scientists use to predict our weather and how forecasting has evolved. I applaud all of the students involved for their insightful questions and discussion.”

Mayor Finch noted, “Today’s program made it clear that we should all treat Mother Nature with respect. Meteorologist Mark Elliott and the students raised some fascinating questions. Emergency preparedness is so important. In the city, we plan every day, preparing for the worst – whether it’s a blizzard, hurricane or tornado – and hope for the best. I know these kids will bring the message home to their parents. Create an emergency kit: Water, blankets, flashlights and batteries, canned food. You might never need it but, if you do, you will be happy you have it. And sign up for Smart911. It could save your life.

I want to thank the Optimum Community so much for the generous donation to our volunteer Emergency Reserve Corps Program and also to the Weather Channel. The Emergency Reserve Corps Program is such a great group of dedicated community members who volunteer when our families in Bridgeport need them most.”