Parent Updates

We are pleased to share an update regarding our 2025 Capital Project. Following the community vote, Proposition A was approved, authorizing $17.7 million in critical improvements across our district. This project is designed to enhance the safety, infrastructure, and learning environments for all our students.

Through the careful leveraging of district finances and New York State Building Aid, we are able to receive 71% back on these capital costs. While Proposition A is moving forward, please note that Proposition B (athletic field improvements) was not approved and will not be part of the current work.

To minimize disruption to the academic year, we have organized the work into two distinct phases.

Phase 1: Work Beginning Summer 2026

Construction on the first set of projects will begin this summer. These updates focus on essential site safety, security, and infrastructure:

• Enhanced Security: Adding card access to select exterior doors and upgrading door hardware across the district to improve student and staff safety.

• Playground Improvements: Renovations at both elementary schools of playground equipment and play surfaces to maximize safety and accessibility for our elementary students.

• Pavement & Access: Reconstruction of the Middle School parking lot and the main access drive.

• Sidewalk Replacements: Replacing and widening "the path" to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility from Washington Avenue.

• Stormwater Infrastructure: Replacing the existing drainage pipe to Washington Avenue and addressing undersized drainage pipes at the northeast side of the Middle School.

• Roofing: Isolated roof replacement at areas of the 2000-middle school building.

• Outdoor Recreation: Replacement of outdoor basketball hoops at Edward J. Arthur Elementary.

Phase 2: Work Beginning Spring 2027

The second phase of the project will focus on internal academic spaces and kitchen facilities. These improvements include:

• Classroom Modernization: Renovating High School science classrooms and second-floor elementary classrooms with new furniture, lighting, and flooring.

• Kitchen Upgrades: Full renovations of the elementary school kitchens to improve food preparation, serving processes, and plumbing.

• Infrastructure: Continued domestic water piping replacements and technology cabling upgrades.

A massive round of applause for our Interact Club volunteers! Every single month, these students flex their muscles to unload thousands of pounds of food at the local pantry, ensuring our community stays fed. You are the definition of "Service Above Self." Thank you for making a real difference!

Shout-out to the student crews packing weekend backpacks to make sure no student goes hungry over the weekends

No one today can predict what awaits us in thirty years, just as no one in 1990 accurately predicted the many changes that have occurred over the last 30 years. One thing that won't change is the need for everyone to possess a core set of personal dispositions and attributes that allow them to adapt to a constantly changing world.

We are carrying forward identified five essential attributes—the five core personal dispositions we have been reporting on each marking period since 2018 and added being Academically Prepared—that industry leaders and colleges have consistently indicated all students will need to be successful. These attributes are not new. What is new is that instead of simply talking about them, which schools have been doing for thirty years, C-A is committing our efforts towards helping every student develop these six attributes that everyone agrees have the most impact on a student's future success.

We are excited that our attributes will transition to the NYS Portrait of a Graduate. On the following document are our five core dispositions we have been reporting on since 2018 organized to align with the New York State Portrait of a Graduate. We have added academically prepared to complete our transition to reflect the upcoming expectations for graduation in New York State.

Review the the document HERE.

We have taken the "I CAn" statments and added a one word descriptor and a competency descriptor for each "I CAn " statement. We hope this document gives you a better understanding of the dispositions we believe will better inform your student's readiness for their future success.

1. Middle School readiness for elementary students

2. High School readiness for middle school students

3. Post Secondary readiness for HS Students

This is a story of how C-A became a district where that mindset thrives across every grade level. It is the story of building a future-focused K–12 STEM ecosystem that begins with kindergarteners coding with Blue Bots and culminates in high school students fabricating full-size go-karts, producing digital media, maintaining a student-run technology help desk, and conducting environmental research along the Hudson River. It is the story of how curiosity, when nurtured early and consistently, grows into confidence and—ultimately—into future opportunities.

READ HERE

High school students will not have regularly scheduled classes on January 20 and January 21 due to the administration of Regents examinations.

Tuesday, January 20 – English Regents
All 11th-grade students are expected to report to school and sit for the English Regents examination.

Wednesday, January 21 – Algebra Regents
Students who are re-taking the Algebra Regents are expected to report to school and sit for this examination.

Additional details regarding arrival times, locations, and procedures will be communicated by the high school office.

The Varsity Girls delivered yet another gritty performance of the season, and their largest test to date, outlasting the Suburban Council’s Triple AAA, Guilderland Dutchmen in a double-overtime thriller, 72-69. The lead changes were plenty and never more than a single digit lead swing by either the Riverhawks or the Dutchmen all game long.

After a tightly contested first half, the Riverhawks found their spark late — thanks in large part to a spectacular second-half surge from Baileigh Briski. Briski poured in 28 points overall, with an incredible 24 coming after halftime and through both overtime periods. Briski answered Guilderland’s big shots with clutch baskets of her own including 8 of 11 from the free throw line in the 4th quarter and double OT's combined.

Reaghan Hellen added 18 points, controlling the tempo during tense stretches and keeping the offense organized as the game grew more chaotic. Hellen also intercepted Guilderland's final pass of the night sealing the victory for the Riverhawks.

Cam Slater chipped in 11 hard-earned points, providing steady scoring inside and out showing her range with a big 3 in the first OT. A huge boost came from the bench as MadiJo DeRose stepped up with 7 points and 2 assists from the post including momentum-shifting plays that helped keep Coxsackie-Athens within striking distance in regulation.

The Riverhawks’ resilience told the story of the night — weathering lead changes, momentum swings, foul trouble, and fatigue on their way to a hard-fought 72–69 victory. Three of the five starters played extended minutes with four fouls, yet maintained their composure and stayed locked in. While there were inevitable lapses and mistakes along the way, it was their collective commitment to teamwork, accountability, and a focused, positive mindset, that ultimately propelled the Riverhawks to a dramatic, statement-making win.

- Coach W's post

Our Varsity Club did an amazing job and I want to recognize their efforts. We had a wonderful turnout and incredible results over the past two Saturdays. Our Santa’s Helpers did an outstanding job, raising nearly $1,400 for families in need. Because of their efforts, ten children from five different families in our district will be able to better enjoy the holiday season.

Toolkit from Common Sense Media Overview Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping our children's world, from the videos they watch to the tools they use in school. This toolkit is designed to help families and educators have thoughtful, age-appropriate conversations about AI and build the skills kids need to navigate an increasingly digital world.

Our current world is constantly changing based on technological developments. The digital landscape in 2025 looks vastly different than at the turn of the 21st century. It is imperative we inquire about what we need to know as parents/caregivers to protect our children and teach them how to responsibly and appropriately utilize technology. The parameters, rules, and expectations we put in place in our homes undoubtedly guide our children’s sense of digital responsibility.

Raising children in a digital era can seem overwhelming at times. Technology has entered our lives rapidly over the past several years and continues to evolve daily. In reality, apps and technological devices may always change, but the behavior stays the same. Moderation is key to managing technology use in our homes. This does not need to be an “all or nothing” approach with either absolute prohibition or full unchecked usage, but we must reflect on the frequency we use technology.

It is beneficial to maintain an open, transparent, and ongoing dialogue with our children regarding the internet, technology, social media, and video games. Remaining approachable and representing that trusted adult to the children in our lives could make the difference between whether our children come to us when issues or uncomfortable situations arise, rather than feeling alone in the process and seeking comfort and advice from peers or strangers.

Technology is here to stay, whether we like it or not. Future employers and/or admissions departments are increasingly evaluating and assessing the digital reputations of our children and how they choose to represent themselves online. The goal of this parent/caregiver guide is to help introduce the major social media platforms, video games, and relevant trends that are already used or have the potential to be used by our children.

Stay the course. We want to prepare our children for their tech-infused futures and walk down this digital journey alongside them by staying informed. Good luck!

READ THE GUIDE HERE

Twelve High School Chorus students in grades 10-12 participated in the Greene County All County Festival as members of the Senior Chorus on November 5th and 7th at Cairo-Durham High School. They practiced 10th periods for the past two months to prepare.

Sopranos: Violet Charniga, Lexi Haas, Brenna Lu

Altos: Gabby Jollie, Samantha Millett, Nicole Multari

Tenors: Ethan Presto, James Warren, Sam West

Basses: Robert Carl, Ian Glastetter, Damian Smith

12 5th and 6th Grade Chorus students participated in the Greene County All County Festival as members of the Elementary Chorus on November 5th and 7th at Cairo-Durham High School. They practiced 10th periods for the past two months to prepare.

Part 1: Leah Arno, Raigan Bennett, Juliet Coyle, Alessia Multari, Makayla Ravenscroft, Brea Reed

Part 2: Eli Baker, Skylar Bower, Roslyn Colwell, Lillian Krom, Lotus Syzdek, Malania White

Mrs. Edwards is so proud of each one of her students. They all worked so hard both nights to create beautiful music with the other members of the Greene County chorus. For some students, it was the first concert under lights in an auditorium. Congratulations on such an honor!

As we celebrate Teacher Aides and Teaching Assistants Appreciation Month, I want to extend my gratitude for everything you do each day to support our students, teachers, and school community.

Your work often happens quietly, behind the scenes, yet its impact is unmistakable. You provide patience, structure, and encouragement to students who rely on you for guidance. You help create calm, productive classrooms. You step in wherever needed—with flexibility, empathy, and a commitment to doing what’s best for kids.

Thank you for the relationships you build, the challenges you navigate, and the positive presence you bring to our schools. The success of our students is shaped in no small part by your dedication. I am grateful to have you as part of the C-A team.

-

Thank you to all the teachers who hosted educators from 10 school districts and NYSED during our Apple Site Visit in November. Shout out to Junait Shah , Allison Leonardo and tech services for organizing the day.

Digital conversion is one of C-A’s five anchor strategies: Enabling every student and teacher with technology to unite them with the world—giving them access to the information they need, when they need it, and connecting them with the people who will help them grow.

Technology at C-A is used to:

• Redefine learning by blending traditional and digital experiences

• Create authentic learning opportunities through multimedia, creation tools, and real-world applications

• Support students in moving beyond simply consuming information

• Encourage ownership, exploration, and inquiry

• Provide access to state-of-the-art tools that expand students’ understanding of the world. At C-A, technology is a tool for learning, not the focus of learning. The true distinction lies in the creativity, professionalism, and vision of the educators who make this work possible.

It is this work by our teaching staff that has transformed C-A to become one of 18 districts world wide recognized by Apple as a distinquished school. This reflects:

• A district-wide commitment to innovation and student empowerment

• High-quality instructional practices that leverage technology meaningfully

• A learning environment where students become creators, collaborators, and problem-solvers

• The dedication of teachers who continuously refine and elevate their practice

When it comes to which tools we use in the classroom; since 2017 C-A’s 1:1 iPad program has proven to be a more strategic and cost-effective long-term investment than purchasing Chromebooks. Beyond cost, iPads offer greater instructional flexibility, stronger accessibility features, and creative learning tools that enhance students’ ability to design, build, and publish their work.

At the July 2025 Board of Regents meeting, the Board formally adopted the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, a critical milestone in NY Inspires, the Department’s implementation plan for transformative education. The Portrait offers a unifying vision of what it means to be a graduate in New York State, describing the essential skills and dispositions that all students should develop to succeed in college, careers, and civic life.

To ensure clarity and support stakeholders’ shared understanding of the Portrait, the Department developed “Need-to-Know” documents for students, parents, educators, administrators, and school board members.

These documents provide role-specific guidance on the Portrait and serve as foundational tools for stakeholder engagement, professional learning, and strategic planning.

1/19: No School; Offices Closed

2/02: 2 Hour delay for all students

2/16-2/2- Winter Recess

The LINKS team have established draft goals for 2028. They are below.

2028

Student Performance Goals

In order for all students to graduate ready for their post-secondary lives, our performance goals for 2028 are:

Reading: 78% of students K-8 will be reading at or above grade level by 2028. This will be a 17% improvement from 2025.

Math: 78% of students K-9 will demonstrate grade level proficiency in math by 2028. This will be a 19% improvement from 2025.

Life Readiness:

1. 100% of students in grades 4, 8 and 12 will demonstrate readiness in a majority of the Life and career ready indicators;
2. The district will see a 11% improvement in the number of students with >=90% attendance by 2028.
3. A 10% improvement in the number of students who often or consistently demonstrate competence in a majority of the personal dispositions.

-Fred Rogers

We all learn in a variety of ways. Students should be able to demonstrate readiness in a variety of ways.

-----------------------------------------------------

Below are several resources that highlight the opportunities we offer ALL students. WE truly are a small school with BIG Opportunities!

1. Did you know that every student at C-A HS can have one early college course paid for in full by the district? The reduced tuition rates for all college courses allows many students to graduate with over 20 credits. Many of our alum are able to enter college as sophomores or graduate from a college a semester early saving thousands of dollars.
2. Our parternship with Questar III BOCES provides 23 offerings in career technical education pathways. Our students who complete these programs are ready to enter the workforce in a varirty of occupations and fields.

We believe ALL students CAn be life, career and college ready when they graduate from C-A. I very muhc apprecait the collaborative work taking place in all classrooms to ensure ALL students are self-directed and prepared to succeed in our global society.

• READINESS INDICATORS 2.0 2025
• READINESS INDICATORS K-12 BOOKLET 2020 :
• EARLY COLLEGE PAMPHLET
• COLLEGE IN THE H.S. OFFERINGS
• CAREER TECH ED OFFERINGS

Like planning a road trip our 2030 DESTINATION, TIMELINE may change as detours pop up or new adventures present themselves.

Take a look. Our road trip will have some exciting mile markers that sustains and enhances the work we have started and will lead us to our 2030 Destination.

• Professional Learning Communities
• Growth Mindset
• Student Centered/Directed Learning
• Digital Conversion
• Pathways to Success

It is with gratitude and humility that we acknowledge that we are learning, speaking and gathering on the ancestral homelands of the Muhheaconneok (Muhhekunneuw) or Mohican people and the Munsee Lenape people, who are the indigenous peoples of this land. Despite tremendous hardship in being forced from here, they now reside in Wisconsin and are known as the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. We pay honor and respect to their ancestors past and present as we commit to building a more inclusive and equitable space for all.

Email: squierr@cacsd.org
Website: www.cacsd.org
Location: 24 Sunset Boulevard, Coxsackie, NY, USA
Phone: 518-731-1700
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100043677108930&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Twitter: @coxathschools

Our new app is now available for download from the Apple Store and the Google Play Store. Keep up to date on all things C-A, right from your device. This app is designed to create easy access to Sports Schedules, Live Feed, Alerts, our Staff Directory and more!