Drop Off Time at FFMS Campus - 2019-2020
Dear Felix Festa Middle School Parents and Guardians:
In 2018-2019, the District implemented a series of safety and security enhancements at FFMS thanks to the generosity of Clarkstown voters. These included the addition of four security personnel, a second SRO, a dedicated perimeter security vehicle and activation of the Raptor Visitor Management System. The FFMS administration and staff in partnership with the District Safety Team continually evaluate what additional safety enhancements should be made at the campus.
One of our primary concerns is the increasing number of students arriving at FFMS prior to 8 am. The school is not staffed to supervise students arriving in those early hours. To address this concern, your cooperation is requested in ensuring your child(ren) do not arrive on campus prior to the 8:00am building opening, effective in the 2019-2020 school year.
For students who wish to be on campus at 8 am, the Felix Festa Staff will continue to host a number of supervised activities in which your child(ren) may participate to enhance their middle school experience.
These offerings include:
- Breakfast Club, Black & White Cafeteria
- Homework Center/Computer Lab, Room B-107
- Library for Research, Quiet Study and Computer Time
- Open Gym for Basketball
- Intramural Yoga and Dance
There is also extra help available at 8:15 am each day per a schedule developed by FFMS teachers to be shared in September. Students who choose not to participate in a supervised activity, should arrive at school 15 minutes prior to the 8:58 am school start.
I understand that this change may represent a challenge for parents needing to drop their children off prior to 8 am. As such, the Community Learning Center has developed a morning program similar to those offered at other district schools. In response, I am pleased to announce the popular after school program FestaVille will be expanded to meet the early morning need and will run each school day from 7 am to 8:45 am. FestaVille is fully licensed by the Office for Children and Family Services and is staffed by teachers and teaching professionals.
The FestaVille staff will welcome your child in the morning with a variety of activities and will also offer homework assistance. Students may also purchase breakfast and can use the MySchoolBuck system. The attached flyer contains costs and additional information if you are interested.
I thank you for your partnership in another successful school year and in our efforts to provide students educational and growth opportunities in a safe and secure environment.
If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact your child’s principal or call my office at (845) 639-6418.
Best wishes for a safe, healthy and enjoyable summer!
Sincerely,
Martin D. Cox
Superintendent of Schools