Tuxedo Talk

Tuxedo Talk is a monthly update for TUFSD parents, caregivers and community members, providing a look at recent lessons, events and happenings in the District.

Dear Tuxedo School Community,

As we enter spring, excitement is building on our campus. This season is filled with active learning, music concerts, athletics events and the anticipation of milestones - from elementary moving-up ceremonies to high school commencement. There is much to celebrate as we move closer to the end of the academic year.

I would like to congratulate our talented 5-12 grade students and dedicated faculty on their wonderful performance of The Addams Family Musical this past weekend. The show was a fantastic success, showcasing the hard work, creativity and dedication of everyone involved. Thank you to all who contributed to making this production such a memorable experience for our students and audience members.

A reminder that the New York State Assessments are approaching for students in grades 3-8. These assessments provide valuable data that helps to refine our curriculum and ensure that TUFSD is supporting every student’s educational journey. Please take note of the following testing dates:

• ELA: April 8 and 9

• Math: April 30 and May 1

• Science (Grades 5 and 8): May 6

Spring Recess is just around the corner - April 14-21 - a well-deserved break for all! A reminder that during the March 19 Board of Education meeting, trustees approved the return of two unused emergency closing days: April 21 and May 23, 2025. Therefore, we look forward to welcoming students and staff back from Spring Recess on Tuesday, April 22. I hope everyone enjoys a restful and refreshing break!

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in making our district a great place for students to learn and grow.

Sincerely,

Nancy Teed

Acting Superintendent

Tuxedo Union Free School District

George Grant Mason students put their creativity and hard work to the test in a Potato Book Character Contest transforming ordinary potatoes into their favorite book characters. See photos of the winners on Facebook.

GFB students paired up with their elementary counterparts in a Reading Buddies activity to celebrate "Read Across America Week." See photos and learn more about the event on Instagram.

March's Breakfast with Books assembly treated George Grant Mason students to a reading of "Regina’s Big Mistake" by Marissa Moss, and a discussion about perserverance. Read more about the event on Facebook.

George F. Baker High School students had an exceptional opportunity to explore the world of advanced manufacturing at the Cincom and Miyano Open House at Marubeni Citizen Cincom Inc. in Allendale, New Jersey, providing the students with a valuable, hands-on learning experience in advanced manufacturing, allowing them to gain insight into cutting-edge technology and the skills needed for future careers. Read more about the visit and view photos on Instagram.

TUFSD is proud to offer a music program that enriches students’ lives, fosters creativity and builds confidence! Check out our video on Facebook highlighting the dedication and talent of our student musicians, along with the passion of George Grant Mason music teacher Sam Johnson and George F. Baker music teacher Clayton Chan!

Students in grades 5-12 put on a frightfully fantastic production of The Addams Family musical over three shows, March 28-30. Every eerie element—from set design to lighting and music—was crafted by our talented students and dedicated staff. Congratulations to everyone involved on a job well done! See photos of the show in action on Instagram.

Junior Ava Resner has found her passion for art with the support of her teachers, particularly in both drawing and ceramics. Recently honored with the Humanities Award from Orange-Ulster BOCES, Ava’s work is inspired by nature, animals, and human expression. Read more about what inspires Ava and what her plans for the future are our on website.

As the new school psychologist at Tuxedo Union Free School District, Tracy Nagengast is passionate about helping students from pre-K to 12th grade navigate emotional and social challenges. With a background in childhood development and a focus on play therapy, Tracy is dedicated to creating meaningful connections with students and families. Discover more about Tracy’s approach and the impact she's making at TUFSD on our website!

For the first time ever, three George F. Baker seniors have been awarded the prestigious 2025 Scholarship for Academic Excellence (SAE) from the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Learn more about the recipients and the award criteria on our website.

Three talented George F. Baker students received a scholarship to support their postsecondary education, thanks to the generosity of a dedicated community member who continues to invest in our students' futures. Read about the students and the awards they received on our website.

At the March 19 Tuxedo Board of Education meeting, School Business Official Brian Weir presented Part I of the expenditures for the 2025-26 budget, and Matthew Zyrkowski of CS Arch, the District's architecture, engineering and construction firm presented the Building Condition Survey.

For the full agenda and documents from the March 19 meeting and all previous Board of Education meetings, including copies of these presentations, please visit the Tuxedo Union Free School District Board of Education section of Board Docs.

The next meeting of the Board of Education will will take place on April 9 at 7 p.m., and will include a presentation of Part II of the expenditures for the 2025-26 budget. Click here to see the full schedule of Board of Education meetings and important dates. All meetings will be held in the George F. Baker auditorium unless otherwise stated.

The TUFSD is happy to announce that junior Logan Saari Poznanski is the Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of February 16! The standout forward/center on the varsity basketball team put up 47 points and grabbed over 40 rebounds in three games during one week, showing incredible skill and talent on the court. Coach Matt Takeuchi says that Logan’s hustle and effort played a key role in three competitive games that helped close out the season on a high note. Congratulations, Logan! Keep up the great work!

Congratulations to Michael Gurley, the Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of February 23! Earlier this year, the freshman supported the girls' varsity team as their manager during their journey to the state Final Four. This winter, Michael made his volleyball debut in the extramural program for the James I. O’Neill High School men’s team, where he stood out as a setter and a leader on the court. Varsity volleyball coach Michelle Hines praised Michael’s dedication to the sport “Michael is a driven young man who is passionate about the game and always ready to step in and play. As a charismatic, confident, and knowledgeable player, he ensures his team is set up for success every game and tournament.”

Michael’s season with O’Neill was made possible through the extramural program, allowing him to compete with one of only four men’s volleyball teams in Section IX. As interest grows, this is an important step toward making men’s volleyball a permanent sport in the section. Way to be a trailblazer for Section IX, Michael! We are so proud of you!

Congratulations to George F. Baker senior Mo Berthe on being named to the Orange County Interscholastic Athletic Association (OCIAA) Coaches Association Divisional All-Star Basketball Team for the second year in a row!

As a three-year varsity player and two-year captain, Mo's dedication, leadership, and talent have earned him a spot among the top 52 players in Orange County—an honor voted on by opposing coaches.

Varsity basketball coach Matt Takeuchi praised Mo for exemplifying what it means to be a student-athlete. “He has been a pleasure to coach, bringing positive energy and always giving his best. Mo has set a great example for younger players, showing them that hard work and determination really do pay off.”

Way to go, Mo! Keep shining on and off the court!

Pre-K Orientation for the 2025-26 school year will be held on Thursday, April 3 at 1:00 p.m. at George Grant Mason Elementary School.

Please note that the dates the New York State Assessments will be administered are as follows:

English Language Arts (ELA) - Grades 3-8 on April 8 and 9

Math - Grades 3-8 on April 30 and May 1

Science - Grades 5 and 8 on May 6

The TUFSD will be closed for Spring Recess April 14-21, 2025. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back onto campus on Tuesday, April 22.