Principal's Weekly Update #26

Dear Wales Families,

Our students returned to school this week refreshed and some a little sun kissed from vacations. The warmer weather this week allowed our children to enjoy outdoor recess on our beautiful playground and sports park. Our supply of playground balls and chalk have dwindled over the last two years and we are seeking donations of sidewalk chalk and balls- such as basketballs, soccer balls or general playground balls. These items can be dropped off at the main office any time.

Mother's day is quickly approaching! Please consider getting a beautiful gift for the important mom's/dad's in your life, and a bonus- you are supporting your child's school! Orders for Square 1 art are due 4/24, and spring flower orders are due 4/22/2026. The hanging baskets are beautiful! Both will arrive in time for Mother's Day!

Our third graders will be participating in the NYS ELA assessment next week. Parents of third grade students are encouraged to watch the video linked below for more information. Over the next few months we will supporting our third graders in their transition the Intermediate building. Students will tour and visit the II, participate in our third grade picnic and have the opportunity to participate in instrument selection for band or orchestra.

Likewise, to support our preschoolers in their transition to Kindergarten, we will hold our annual Kindergarten orientation session from 5:30-6:30 on April 30th at Wales.

We completed one of our two remaining fire drills this week. We are planning to do the last one next week- weather dependent.

A_Parent_s_Guide_to_NYS_Testing.mp4

We are excited to share that our Art Department has been selected as one of only 25 schools across New York State to receive the NYSATA VISION Endorsement, a distinction that recognizes exemplary K–12 visual arts programs.

The VISION Award honors schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to sequential, standards-based arts instruction while prioritizing inclusivity, equity, accessibility, and meaningful student engagement. This designation acknowledges programs that not only meet high standards in curriculum and instruction but also actively work to ensure that all students have access to high-quality visual arts experiences.

The New York State Art Teachers Association describes the VISION Award as a recognition of schools that are shaping the future of creative learning—inspiring innovation, preparing students for a rapidly changing world, and contributing to students’ overall academic success and well-being. The review process includes a comprehensive self-assessment and rubric-based evaluation of curriculum rigor, equitable access, visibility, and advocacy.

Receiving this endorsement is a significant affirmation of the work our department does each day to support creative growth, critical thinking, problem-solving, and a strong, vibrant arts community within our school. It also reflects our district’s ongoing support for the visual arts and its belief in the importance of a well-rounded, high-quality education.

Thank you for your continued support of our students, our program, and the arts. We look forward to celebrating this achievement and using it as a foundation for continued growth and excellence.

Warm regards,

The Iroquois Art Department

News and updates from the PTO:

1. PTO still needs volunteers to fill indispensable position vacancies on next year's PTO Board. A Co-President and Fundraising Chair volunteer is required for the PTO to continue to offer next year's students all of the events and activities it supports. Nominations are welcome at the 4/3/25 PTO meeting and voting is held at the 5/1/25 PTO meeting - this is a current need! Please check the flyer sent home from school for more information about this need and the role of the PTO in our school community.

2. Get your SQUARE 1 ART orders in! Our Kindergarteners - Third Graders are participating in a Square 1 Art Fundraiser to benefit both the Wales Primary Art Department and the PTO. You may purchase your child's art on quality, custom keepsakes. Order using the information on the personalized flyer sent home from school OR search for your child's art at https://shop.square1art.com/shop/artwork/Search. Orders due by April 24th. These keepsakes make great Mother's/Father's Day gifts and mementos for grandparents!

As we prepare for Kindergarten Registration, we’d like to share some important information:

• If your child is an Iroquois UPK student, you do NOT need to re-register them for Kindergarten. Your child is already registered and will attend the primary building based on your residence.
• The only additional requirement is to submit an updated health form and immunization record to the nurse at the primary building your child will attend (Elma, Marilla, or Wales).
• You will receive communication from the primary building regarding any Kindergarten transition events.
• Kindergarten Screening for UPK students will take place in May during their school day, so parents do not need to schedule a separate screening appointment. Further details about the screening process will be sent home.

• If you have any questions about the transition to Kindergarten, please contact the Wales Primary Office at (716) 652-3000 x 4001.

  
  

  2026/2027 UPK registration is open as well. Please see the district webpage for details.

This is a reminder that when your child is absent or tardy, legally we must have a note with a reason, upon the child's return to school. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

4/16 PTO meeting at 6pm

4/21 & 4/22 NYS 3rd grade ELA

4/23 Administrative Assistant Day (tell Mrs. Moran that you appreciate her and all she does for our school)

4/24 Assembly 2pm: Kevin McCarthy

4/27 Annual instrument recruitment assembly (@the HS) for third grade students

4/30 Kindergarten Orientation 5:30-6:30pm for parents and students