First Day Message From The Superintendent of Schools
Dear Parents:
The first day of school represents new beginnings.
Today, in the Clarkstown Central School District, it was a privilege to watch our students at all 13 schools begin their educational journey for 2018-19. Whether it was kindergarten students coming to our District for the first time, or seniors at our two high schools embarking on their last year, excitement was evident everywhere.
During my travels to our schools, teachers, staff and administrators assisted students in multiple ways to make them feel welcome, safe, and comfortable. I saw freshman students receive helpful tips and advice during North High School orientation; Felix Festa Sixth Graders touring the school led by their teacher; and elementary students welcomed to their new homerooms while meeting new classmates.
Our Transportation Department did an outstanding job while providing safe travels to students in the morning and afternoon. Our office clerical staff multi-tasked while navigating visitors and taking phone calls. Food Service workers provided students hot and cold lunches; the buildings shined following summer maintenance and cleaning by our Buildings and Ground staff.
In addition, through your budgetary support, the District added 19 security guards spread out across our 13 schools and three more School Resource Officers from the Clarktstown Police Department, one more at each of the secondary level schools.
During our Convocation program at the South High School auditorium yesterday, all employees in the District gathered while listening to our amazing Faculty Band play songs connected to our 2018-19 theme of Acceptance. We watched video tapes of faculty and students, and heard speeches about this topic as well.
Leadership, however, is more than just words. I believe it is about courage and action. Today, our faculty, staff and administrators took action and led students by accepting them to new schools and grade levels. Today, and every day this year, I am proud to be part of a District where we will continue to accept others while providing them instruction and support to meet their academic, social, emotional and physical needs.
On behalf of all our staff, I would like to thank you for your support as a new school year begins and our students venture into a year of learning, growth, friendships and fun.
Sincerely,
Martin D. Cox
Superintendent of Schools