A message from Dr. Wiles:
Dear GCSD Families,
The topic of distraction-free school environments has been prevalent this year. In December, the Guilderland Central School District hosted a panel discussion about the harmful effects of cellphones on the well-being of children. In January, Gov. Hochul visited Farnsworth Middle School to unveil a plan — that is now a New York State law — to establish smartphone-free schools statewide.
At the start of the 2025-26 school year, we will join every NYS school district in creating distraction-free learning environments by requiring that personal electronic devices, such as cellphones, smart watches, Bluetooth/wireless headphones or other mobile communication devices be put away, from the start of the school day until the end of the regular school day. By removing the devices that detract from students’ academic performance and contribute to higher rates of bullying and youth mental health issues, the district is strengthening its commitment to a focused and supportive learning environment.
In September, GCSD students at the elementary and middle school levels must have devices turned off and placed in a locker or cubby. Students attending Guilderland High School must have devices turned off and stored in a Yondr pouch, provided by the district, during the regular school day. Please visit the district website for more information about the Yondr pouch program at GHS.
Additional information will be sent to families later this summer.
Best wishes to PBES Principal Chris Sanita; welcome Dr. Katie Stalker
After more than three decades of dedicated service — including 17 as Principal of Pine Bush Elementary School — Chris Sanita is retiring, leaving a lasting and profound impact on the GCSD community. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Sanita has been unwavering in his commitment to supporting each and every student, always focused on helping them grow, succeed and prepare for the future. We wish him the very best!
While we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Sanita as he begins his well-deserved retirement, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Katie Stalker as the next principal of Pine Bush Elementary School. Dr. Stalker, who is currently Principal of Mater Christi School, was appointed by the Board of Education at its April 8 meeting. She will begin her new role on July 1.
Year-end LinqConnect reminders
As the school year comes to a close, we kindly ask that you take a few moments to check your child’s meal account. If your child has a negative balance in their Food Services account, please use LinqConnect to pay the remaining amount. Any unused funds will carry over to the next school year and remain available as your student moves from grade to grade or to a different school building within the district. Families with students leaving the district may request a refund by emailing the Food Services Director at hellerr@guilderlandschools.net.
Final grades for the 2024-25 academic year
Grades for all GCSD students will be available on the eSchoolData Parent and Student portals on July 1. Later that week, grades will be sent out via ParentSquare as well.
Early dismissal tomorrow
Due to the forecast for excessive heat, tomorrow, Tuesday, June 24, all elementary school buildings will release at 11:05 a.m. and Farnsworth Middle School will release at 12:15 p.m. Regents exams at Guilderland High School will be held as scheduled. Transportation will be provided and bottled water will be available however, no lunch will be served. These schedule changes are in addition to early dismissals that were already planned for this week. For details, visit the district website.
Thank you for your continued support of Guilderland Central School District students and our school community.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent