A message from Dr. Wiles:
Dear GCSD Families,
The past week has been a difficult one, not just for our school district, but for many in the Capital Region. As is the case across the country, we have seen an uptick in threats against school communities. I would like Guilderland Central School District families to know the school district has a solid, collaborative relationship with the Guilderland Police Department. It is in large part due to this relationship that we have strong safety measures and protocols in place. A prime example is the Confidential Tip Line, 518-356-1503. Available to GCSD families, faculty and staff, the tip line is monitored by GPD and is a valuable resource for reporting dangerous or threatening behavior and statements.
Despite the adversity of the past week, our students and staff continue to demonstrate the dedication, talent and commitment that enables them to grow and flourish as individuals, which I truly appreciate. Please read on to learn about a few recent achievements.
Students honored for work in the arts
Several Guilderland Central School District students have been honored for their artistic pursuits. Five Guilderland High School students had their artwork selected for the Art in 3 Dimensions Show, which is displayed in the W.B. Haessig Art Gallery at Mohonasen High School for the month. In addition, nine GCSD students have been recognized by the New York State Band Directors Association (NYSBDA) for their musical abilities and will perform in the association’s honor ensembles held next month in Syracuse. Congratulations to this group of very talented students and their teachers on these well-deserved recognitions!
GHS receives National Unified Champion Banner
At a ceremony held on Friday, Feb. 2, GHS was presented with the National Unified Champion School banner from Special Olympics of New York. This banner is in recognition of the commitment to inclusion by GHS and the Guilderland Central School District. Congratulations to Unified Sports and Athletics Coaches Allison Relyea, Colette Gallagher and Kelly Tynan and the students who are working to create inclusive environments in our schools!
A taste of Morocco at FMS
Recently Farnsworth Middle School students had the opportunity to sample food prepared by Chef Aneesa Waheed from Tara Kitchen, a Mediterranean and Moroccan restaurant in Guilderland. Students tried boneless chicken marinated in an apricot and prune sauce, rice and green beans seasoned with “ras el hanout,” a traditional Moroccan spice blend. The objective of the event was to provide students with the opportunity to taste more diverse foods as a means to bridge cultures, begin conversations and make connections. Most students were very enthusiastic about trying something new; learn more about the event and the students’ reactions to the dish.
Virtual DEI fireside chat, Tuesday, Feb. 13, 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The DEI Engagement Committee is hosting two virtual fireside chats on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The purpose of these forums is to provide Guilderland community members with the opportunity to participate in discussions centered around DEI. The attached flyer contains the links to join the virtual meetings.
Lunar New Year
Tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 10 is Lunar New Year; 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. FMS students in Mrs. Mineau’s classes decorated lanterns while learning about the foods of Lunar New Year, including dumplings, spring rolls, good fortune fruit, and the tradition of presenting red envelopes. We wish all GCSD families great happiness and prosperity.
Thank you for your continued support of Guilderland Central School District students and our school community. Have a wonderful and enjoyable weekend.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent