A message from Dr. Wiles:
Dear GCSD Families,
In less than one month, the classrooms and hallways of the Guilderland Central School District buildings will once again be bustling with activity as all students return to school. As we prepare for the start of a new year, there are a few noteworthy pieces of information for families.
GCSD is now using ParentSquare for all school communications
As of August 1, ParentSquare replaced SchoolMessenger as the communications tool used by GCSD teachers and administrators. A safe and secure platform, ParentSquare offers a mobile app for easy access; while it’s not necessary to download the app to stay connected, it does offer the most convenience and accessibility.
What has not changed is eSchoolData, which is our parent portal. This information center is the best way to obtain information about students’ attendance, schedules, progress reports and report cards. Visit the district website here for more information about eSchoolData.
Photo opt out forms
GCSD staff often photograph and film students at school events and activities for promotional purposes. This information is sometimes posted on the district website and/or featured on GCSD social media channels including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter. Confidential information is never shared. Families who object to the release of their child’s information and/or photograph should notify both their child’s building principal and the district’s communications office by September 15. Please visit the district website here for more details and to download and print the photo opt-out form.
Expectations for behavior on school buses
GCSD makes every effort to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all students, including on district school buses. We ask families to remind students that a school bus is an extension of the classroom and the same respectful behavior is expected. Students are prohibited from using offensive language on a GCSD school bus, including swearing and using terms that are demeaning or hurtful to others. When students follow these expectations, it helps to ensure a safe environment for all. In the coming weeks, families will receive a mailing which contains a transportation newsletter with additional details about safe bus behavior.
Red Cross blood drive, Aug. 14, 12-5 p.m.
Guilderland High School senior Lauren Campbell has organized a blood drive for the American Red Cross on Monday, August 14, from 12-5 p.m. at the Elks Lodge located at 3867 Carmen Road. See the attached flyer for details on how to schedule an appointment. Please consider supporting Lauren and donating to this worthy cause.
I look forward to welcoming students back on the first day of school, Thursday, September 7. Until then, I hope all GCSD families enjoy the remaining days of summer break.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent