March 14 Update...

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I am aware that social media sites are buzzing with parents and community members sharing their feelings and opinions regarding how the District addressed the "National Walk-Out" that was heavily discussed and posted on social media sites and news outlets across the country. I am reluctant to respond in those forums because I never want people to think that I do not value their opinions and their right to have an opinion, because I absolutely do. With that said, I just wanted to provide additional details (that were included in the staff letter but excluded from the parent/guardian letter) now that the planned event is over and any details I share will not endanger our students and staff by sharing the locations of the brief student led activity that took place. Students were in the hallways in different locations at both CSMS and PVM High School from 9:55 a.m. to 10:12 a.m., which was a total of 17 minutes.  The student leadership felt that the 17 minutes was a symbolic gesture for the 17 students and faculty that lost their lives at Parkland, Florida.

First, I want to be very clear, the District did not support or endorse any political movement, we simply provided an opportunity for students to do something positive with their peers for 17 minutes. These students were engaged in an activity led by their peer leaders on the Student Leadership Task Force, where students got to know their peers a little better in a creative way.  This was student driven and well received by the many students that participated.  The 17 minute activity was completely optional, as those that did not want to participate were able to complete their homework, read a book, or just relax for the 17 minutes in a supervised setting.  No student at the high school or the middle school decided to leave their school.  We were prepared if students left their school to peacefully congregate outside of our schools (but still on school grounds) and designated school administrators were prepared to accompany any student that felt the need to do this, as the safety of all students is our top priority.

We planned this 17 minute student led activity inside our middle school and high school because we did not want students leaving our schools and congregating in a large group, since this was announced throughout the country that it would take place at 10 a.m. on March 14 for 17 minutes. This potentially could have made our students a target for someone that could harm them knowing several students would be outside at the same time.  It sickens me that I have to think that way, but unfortunately, there are people in society that do horrific things. At no time was the 2nd Amendment discussed, nor were any other political beliefs discussed, as that was not what the 17 minutes were about today. As always, if you have any questions for me, my office phone number is (315) 668-4220, or my work cell phone number which is (315) 314-1432. Do not hesitate to contact me, as I value your feedback, suggestions, and healthy dialogue regarding any concerns you may have. If your inquires pertain to specific situations in your child's school, I suggest giving the teacher and principal an opportunity to respond first, but I am always available to speak with. As another reminder, please join us at our community forum focused on safety and security, held on March 19, at 6 PM in the PVM High School Cafeteria.

Thank you for your time,

Thomas J Colabufo
Superintendent

Spotlight on HME and the New Chamber Incentive Program...

These amazing students presented at our March 12, 2018 Board of Education Meeting held at Hastings-Mallory Elementary School where they showcased their use of technology, specifically Chromebooks, as a key research tool that can be utilized in all classes.  We are so proud of our dedicated staff and exceptional students that come to school everyday eager to learn and grow.

Fort Brewerton/Greater Oneida Lake Chamber of Commerce

Citizenship Incentive Award Program

Monthly awards are given to Paul V. Moore High School and Central Square Middle School students who do not have a discipline referral for each month.  This is a great way to recognize good citizenship in our students, which is a big part of the District’s mission.

Our March winners are (PVM High) Maegan Dean and Nicolas Stevens, and (from CSMS) Angilee Haberer and Karter Stark. We are very proud of you! They each received fantastic gift certificates from businesses belonging to the Fort Brewerton/Greater Oneida Lake Chamber of  Commerce.