Dear WCS Students, Families, Staff and Community Members,

November has arrived...a time to reflect and express gratitude for all those people and facets of our lives which bring us joy. At WCS, there are so very many reasons to feel gratitude and to experience JOY:

• We are thankful each and every day for our students, who are a tangible reminder of what is truly important and our purpose in public education. Thank you, Marauders, for making this the best possible profession!
• We are thankful for the dynamic teachers, counselors, mental health personnel, nurses, paraprofessionals, transportation and kitchen staff, facilities team, clerical staff, and administration who have committed their professional lives to the well being, growth and development of Williamson students and to their optimal opportunity for achievement. It is an honor and privilege to serve beside the world-class faculty and staff at WCS!
• We are also thankful for you. Thank you for entrusting us with the people who matter most to you and for partnering with us in your child(ren)’s education!

REMINDER: NO SCHOOL on Wednesday - Friday, 11/27-29 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

REMINDER: NO SCHOOL December 23 - January 3 (Winter Break)

Regionalization Study Update

As I have now shared in several ParentSquare communications, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) has administered a regionalization survey to gather insights on how we can improve educational services across the state. WCS has submitted our survey and we now await receipt of the regional data compilation document. Upon receipt, Lynne Rutnik (BOCES DS) will lead conversations and support collaborative opportunities with CSOs from across the region to identify innovative ways to address new and old challenges surrounding delivery of high quality programming and equitable access to it for all students.

SED stated: The intention of this initiative is to charge local stakeholders with identifying support needs for creating and enhancing equitable student opportunity as well as solutions to persistent challenges, as well as make recommendations for how NYSED may shape budget and legislative priorities and/or policy or regulation changes. Regionalization in New York State is not reorganization, consolidation, mergers, annexation, or the creation of regional high schools. NYSED has no intention of forcing local school district reorganization or creating regional districts operated by BOCES. Merger or consolidation of local school districts may only occur following several proscriptive statutory requirements. If a local school district is considering a voluntary merger or consolidation, they may contact NYSED’s Office of Educational Management Services for information and resources.

Superintendents (CSOs) from across the region engaged in collegial conversations about regionalization this week and learned the following:

• Representation and Advocacy: The WFL District Superintendent is acting on behalf of NYSED and has been officially tasked to lead regionalization planning, with support of the 25 WFL Component District Superintendents.
• Guidance on Educational Policies: The planning process will be supported by data. Convening meetings will be scheduled to help explain and implement state policies to help school leaders support local needs and goals. The District Superintendent is responsible for bringing together regional education leaders.
• Facilitated Collaboration: The BOCES District Superintendent will bring together district leaders to share resources, ideas, and best practices, using convening sessions (referenced above) and monthly CSO Meetings. The District Superintendent facilitates the use of the strengths and needs tool, which helps districts analyze strengths, needs, and vision and works with component districts to identify areas where collaboration could be beneficial.
• Strategic Planning: The District Superintendent will lead/support intentional planning to align regional initiatives with state goals and district needs through the regionalization plan. The District Superintendent works with component districts to write the final regionalization plan and submit it to NYSED.

The tentative timeline for further conversations specific to development of a regionalization plan is as follows:

• January 2024 - Convening Meeting: CSOs analyze regional data to inform priorities and discuss opportunities for comprehensive student development.

• March 2024 - Convening Meeting: Stakeholder Expansion will engage external partners like non-public schools, higher education and community organizations. Identify next steps.

As stated previously, in full advocacy of and for WCS, it is my intent to approach the upcoming regionalization discussions open mindedly and with the objective of identifying creative solutions to fulfill the local vision for education and schooling in this district. I will share additional information with you as it becomes available to do so.

WCS District Safety Team Update

Could not feel more #MarauderPROUD about our District Safety Team comprised of nearly 40 members from varied internal and external stakeholder groups!

We had the opportunity to meet on Wednesday, November 12, as a District Safety Team to discuss important topics focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of WCS students and staff. The agenda for our time together included the following topics:

• Trauma Illness Grief Consortium at WCS - Mary Weil, Ingrid Wander. and Amy Hanna

• Dignity for All Students Act at WCS - Amy Hanna and Ingrid Wander

• Cell Phones

• Facilities Et al.

• Radios

• Fire doors

• Lockdown button

• Surveillance Cameras

• PA System

• Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management

• Threat Assessment

• Crisis Intervention Team

• Community Partners

• Nondisclosure Agreements

• See Something, Say Something

• Extracurricular & Athletics Addendum

Speaking of District Safety: GINNA Evacuation Drill

• In accordance with the WCS School Safety Plan, the district will conduct an emergency evacuation drill to rehearse for protective action in the event of a Radiological Emergency.
• WCS will practice our Ginna Evacuation Drill on the morning of November 21.
• During this drill, all WCS students, faculty and staff will rehearse evacuation from their respective buildings across the district.
• All WCS students, faculty and staff will get on buses to simulate evacuation requiring transport to offsite shelter location. While we will not report to our designated offsite evacuation site, all buses will exit campus and drive a short distance briefly before returning to respective buildings and concluding the drill.
• The drill is expected to last approximately 30 minutes.
• If you have any specific questions about this drill, please contact your child's building administrators.

Capital Improvement Project Update

Substantial completion of this project is upon us. We anticipate contractors to be wrapping up "final completion lists" and conclusion of greater than 80% of the work by month's end. As completion draws nearer, there remain two primary areas that will "spill over" into the new year:

1. As I have related in previous communications, the seating in the upper level mezzanine at the MS will need additional work. The district has collaborated with CIP architects and construction team to explore creative solutions to current seating configuration (which is tight). We believe we have identified a creative solution to redress concerns specific to comfort and accessibility and anticipate that the remedial work will be completed in January 2025.
2. We anticipate it likely that we will be able to attend to at least, in part, an alternate item identified in the original scope of work. The flooring, walls, and ceiling of the HS band room which were identified in the original scope of work for this Capital Improvement Project. At this time, we await quotes so we may determine which aspects might be captured in this project utilizing remaining CIP funds. More to follow...

We are committed to keeping you informed throughout the progress of these projects and appreciate your continued support and patience as we work to make these improvements a reality.

Calendar of Events

Please be certain to refer to the WCS District Calendar on our website often to ensure you don't miss any upcoming events!

Our November District Newsletter contains numerous highlights, pertinent updates and information about upcoming events/activities. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about the information contained in this newsletter or otherwise.

Warmest wishes to you and yours for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday! I hope that you are able to relax and enjoy time with those who matter most to you!

Best,

E. Bridget Ashton

Elizabeth Bridget Ashton
Superintendent, Williamson Central School District
4184 Miller Street
Williamson, NY 14589
Bashton@williamsoncentral.org
#WilliamsonPROUD

At WCS, we are steadfast in our resolve to engage in continuous improvement and to secure optimal outcomes for all of our students. We want each and every Marauder to have equal access to learning, opportunity, and life's chances for success.

As you are likely aware, the Board of Education acts officially to create a shared vision for the future and to establish direction for the district to achieve highest levels of student performance. This past summer the administrative team and Board of Education spent countless hours reviewing, analyzing, and discussing student performance data and the district’s Annual Report. As a result of our time together, the Board of Education provided the direction and vision for the short and long term work in front of us, as outlined in the below Essential Objectives document.

The home-school partnership is critical to the development of a successful educational experience for students. When we work together, we are able to create a unified support system that enhances student learning and development in numerous and varied ways.

Please feel free to reach out to your child(ren)'s teacher(s) and/or your building leaders by phone or email if you have questions, concerns or "shout outs" about the work happening at WCS. Please be certain to use the chain of contact so that you can receive a timely response from the staff member that is most directly involved in the situation.

Who Should You Contact?

• The WCS Chain of Contact provides you a pathway of contact information regarding instructional and operational areas in the district.

• Note: A partial Directory of phone numbers is also accessible on the district webpage.

Digital Platforms to Support Staying Connected with WCS:

• ParentSquare
• SchoolTool
• Schoology
• WCS Website Note: Both the MS and HS post their daily announcements on their webpages. There are also numerous helpful links there for you.
• District Monthly Newsletter

Each year the RPO celebrates the holidays with their Gala Holiday Pops concert. Part of that concert includes several works for orchestra and choir. For just over three decades the chorus has been Rochester area high school students.

It has been some time since a student from Williamson has participated. This year six WCS students were accepted. They are: Leah Genge, Renee Groesbeck, Toria Holcomb, Logan Igler, Ronan Martinez, and Brea Shaver. They will be in a chorus of 145 singers. This year brought a record number of nominations...225!

There are five concerts between Thursday, December 19 and Sunday, December 22. I would recommend not going on Thursday since our students will be here for our school concert that night. Tickets can be purchased at rpo.org.

See link below.

1. Science Trip to Montezuma

The science department led a hands on lesson that explored multiple areas of science during a trip to Montezuma.

2. Old English W Awards

The HS celebrated students who had the highest grade averages in their courses last year. The outgoing seniors received their awards at graduation.

3. Chase Thornton- National Merit Scholar-Student of Commendation

This award goes to the top performers on the PSAT nationally. Chase was awarded with an official award from the district at our November BOE meeting.

4. HS Students Take Hay Ride During Big Pumpkin Day. Thank you to Bethany Moore for submission.

5. Every year, the Williamson High School Volunteer Club does a Day of Service in our community. This year we volunteered at Pines of Peace, Williamson Come-Unity Center, the Williamson Public Library, and cleaned up a section of Route 21 Adopt-A-Highway. These volunteer hours are used to help students as they work to meet their community service graduation requirement and shows them the importance of volunteers in our community and organizations that rely on volunteers. Special thanks to Mark's Pizzeria in Williamson for allowing us to eat lunch there and for graciously donating sheet pizzas and fried dough. Thank you to Bethany Moore for submission.

6. The high school hosted a staff Halloween costume contest. The cafeteria staff won! They dressed up as all different condiments in tutus. Thank you to Jessica Keymel for submission!

Communication is of critical importance at the middle level. As students progress through the year, staying abreast of grades and upcoming events can be challenging.

We have many forms of communication. During the 24-25 school year, we have made it a priority to communicate with parents and families utilizing a variety of platforms. A universal (and user friendly) platform is ParentSquare. At the building level, we use this digital platform to communicate general information such as upcoming events, staffing updates, changes in schedule and celebrations which have occurred in the building. Some of our teachers use it to communicate grade level information. This year, we are also using ParentSquare to communicate to families utilizing a grade level template. This should help our parents and families have more targeted and specific information regarding upcoming events within each grade. The template communication is sent monthly through ParentSquare.

Our goal this year at the Middle School is to also increase our personalized communication with families. We are working to have personalized conversations through phone calls, conferences and postcards. This is in an effort to enhance the dialogue between families and the school. We hope that as the year progresses, you receive a form of one to one communication from a staff member.

In addition, the school utilizes the Schoology platform. Families can access Schoology to view their child’s grades and progress in real time. Schoology will inform families if any assignments are missing and provide up to date grades. Schooltool is the platform to view the final ten week report card grades.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us through email, ParentSquare or by phone at (315) 589-9665.

Kathryn Taylor

Middle School Principal

ES - Make-Up Picture Day November 14th

MS - Make-Up Picture Day November 19th

Yearbook Cover Design Contest for the ES & MS Yearbook cover. Entries due Nov. 15th to Mrs. Baldwin.

On Tuesday November 26th the Buffalo Bills Drumline will visit WCS!

• The 4th graders will be joining the middle school for an assembly with the drumline at 1:15 that day.
• At the conclusion of the assembly the drumline will be coming to do a parade at the elementary so the rest of our PreK-4 students have an opportunity to hear them play.

Everyone is encouraged to wear Buffalo Bills gear or colors that day!

Thank you to Meghan France for organizing this wonderful event for our students!

November is here….hard to believe we are beginning the third month of the school year! The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping and school is busy! This is the time of the year to share specific progress on your child’s learning in school, both academically and socially. The first report card of the year will be available on Thursday November 14th via Parent Square (UPK and Kindergarten students will receive their report card at the scheduled parent/teacher conference). Conference time is a perfect opportunity to discuss your child’s performance in school.

The conference dates are as follows:

• Thursday November 14th
• Wednesday November 20th
• Tuesday December 3rd
• Note: conferences are scheduled with the classroom teacher

Tips for parent conferences found at Scholastic.com…

Before the Teacher Conference:

• Start preparing early. Don't wait until the night before to get organized. Create a folder at the beginning of the year in which you store test scores, big homework assignments, and your notes (about things your child has told you or any other topics you want to address).
• Talk to your child. Ask how they are doing in class, what's going on during lunchtime, recess, and when they go to special classes like music or gym. You want to have a full picture.

During the Teacher Conference:

• Arrive early. With only a few precious minutes to spend, you don't want to be late. It will shorten your time with your child's teacher.
• Enter with the right attitude. The goal of both the teacher and the parent should be the success of the student.
• Find out the communication protocol. Don't let this be the only time you talk to your child's teacher.

After the Teacher Conference:

• Follow up. If the teacher brings something to your attention that needs to be addressed with your child, take steps to put the plan in motion. Also, stay in touch with the teacher and check in when necessary.
• Update your child. Start with the positive things her teacher had to say, then fill them in on any concerns you and the teacher discussed. Working as a team will yield the most success for your child!

If you have any questions, comments or concerns during the school year please feel free to contact the school at any time. We want to work together, with families, to provide your child with a well-rounded educational experience.

Together we will make 2024-2025 a great school year!

Miss Ellen Saxby

Williamson Elementary Principal

Here at Williamson CSD, we believe that strong communication between home and school is essential for your student’s success. We are dedicated to working together with you to support your student’s learning journey, celebrate their growth, and help them reach their fullest potential. As we move through the school year, we want to ensure you are well-informed about your student’s progress. Through regular updates, feedback, and collaborative discussions, we can create an environment where your student feels encouraged, supported, and motivated to set meaningful goals and do their best. As we reach the end of the 10-week marking period, below are some opportunities for you to connect with your student and their teachers:

Reviewing report cards together is a great way to recognize achievements, set goals, and have meaningful discussions about learning. Teacher comments can be used to identify specific skills or subjects to focus on or celebrate. If there is anything unclear on your student’s report card, please reach out to your student’s teacher for clarification. This year, you can continue to access report cards through ParentSquare. We will also be mailing hard copies home.

Upcoming parent-teacher conferences are a great way for you to connect with your student’s teachers and discuss their learning journey in more detail. You know your student best - your insight regarding their progress, strengths, and needs is invaluable. This shared time helps us understand each student’s unique needs and ensures they receive the best support possible. If you have not yet made an appointment to conference with your student’s teachers, we encourage you to connect with us.

We appreciate and value your partnership as we work together to create a solid foundation that will empower all students to reach new heights. We look forward to a year of growth, discovery, and success!

The UPK classes were able to go on a field trip in October to Lagoner Farms. It was a fantastic trip and we each got to pick our own bag of apples. We enjoyed a treat of apple cider and donuts too! It was so fun to take our classes and share with our community. Kristin Palmer was a great host. She did talk about apples and the growing process with our classes and showed them the star the seeds make that is inside each apple if cut a certain way.

In today's rapidly changing world, schools play a critical role not only in educating students but also in fostering their overall well-being. Community resources are essential to support the diverse needs of students and create a nurturing environment where all can thrive. These resources—whether academic support, mental health services, after-school programs, or family outreach—help bridge gaps and ensure that every child has access to the tools they need to succeed. By collaborating with local organizations, schools can provide a safety net for students, helping them overcome challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Partnering with community resources is not just about academic achievement; it’s about building a foundation for resilient, empowered individuals who are ready to contribute positively to society. If you or your child are in need of community resources, please use the link below, which can also be found on our website under the Student Supports page.

https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1729102387/williamsoncentralorg/lgvxow8set2xu4ekx0om/StudentSupportsResources2024.pdf

We have now reached the end of the first marking period and with report card grades being published, we have the opportunity to reflect on how our children are performing.

As you plan for Parent Teacher Conferences, consider asking the following questions:

• What is my child like in class?

• Is my child working to his/her ability?

• What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

• What skills will my child be expected to master this year in your classroom?

• Is there anything that I can share with you about what my child is like at home?

• What can I do to support my child’s learning at home?

School attendance is a critical component of a student’s success in school. Consider this…When do absences become a problem?

• Students can fall behind in class even if they miss just 1 or 2 days every few weeks.
• Missing 10%, or about 2 days each month over a school year makes it difficult for students to learn new material and maintain previous learning.
• Being late to school can also cause students to fall behind and keep them from developing good work habits.

If you’re concerned about your student’s performance, start by observing specific areas where they struggle. Then talk with your child openly to understand their perspective. Schedule a meeting, send an email, or plan a phone call with the teacher to discuss these concerns and ask for strategies or resources to support improvement. Regularly check in on their progress and celebrate their achievements, even small ones, to encourage a positive approach to school.

We look forward to collaborating with you and your family!

Tips from the Technology Department

How to Access Schoology (Current Grades)

Teachers can give you a 12 digit code, then you can follow the steps outlined in this document.

How to Access SchoolTool (Interim/Final Grades)

The link to get to SchoolTool is found by going to the website, clicking links for parents, and clicking SchoolTool Parent Portal

If you do not have access and would like to access SchoolTool please contact Dawn Everhart at Deverhart@williamsoncentral.org to set up an account.

Cybersecurity Awareness

Here are some helpful links to help you and your student (feel free to share):

https://staysafeonline.org/online-safety-privacy-basics/raising-digital-citizens/

Tech Support

If you or your student has a technology issue related to school please use the following link:

Technology Support Request

There are also supports in place in each building where students can access help for their devices or get a spare device.

Healthy Eating During the Holidays

The holidays are filled with delicious treats, but it’s also a great time to teach your child about balanced eating! Encourage them to enjoy sweets in moderation and to fill up on healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains first. Small changes - like choosing water over sugary drinks, adding a veggie dish to holiday meals, or using smaller plates for portion control - can make a big difference. Remind your child that they can still enjoy their favorite treats, but that balance is key.

Keeping regular meal times during the holidays also helps avoid extra snacking. And don’t forget to make time for active family fun, like taking a walk after a big meal or playing a game of tag in the backyard. Simple steps like these not only help children feel their best but also build healthy habits that can last a lifetime. This holiday season, let’s help our children enjoy the holiday season, feel good, and stay healthy!

Enjoy this simple, kid-friendly holiday recipe that’s both nutritious and tasty!

(courtesy of hauteandhealthyliving.com)

BANANA SNOWMEN

Ingredients:

• Wooden Skewers (be very careful if handling skewers with little ones or use ones safe for children)

• Banana

• Green Grapes

• Strawberries

• Mini Chocolate Chips

• Small Slices of carrot

Directions:

• Slice the banana into ½ inch pieces. Place three of the slices on the skewer.

• Cut the stem off the strawberry and add it to the skewer as the “hat”.

• Skewer half a green grape on top of the strawberry.

• Poke two mini chocolate chips into the top banana slice for the eyes, and two or three into the second banana slice for the buttons.

• Cut a small triangle out of the carrot slice and poke into snowman’s head as the nose.

ENJOY! For more fun, simple, kid-friendly holiday recipes visit this website.

CDC - Flu

Parents - Fight Flu CDC

New York State Public Health Law (PHL) § 613, requires schools to inform families about influenza (flu) and the benefits of flu vaccinations. Please take a moment to refer to the October District Newsletter for detailed information or refer to the following:

COVID-19

If your child has symptoms associated with COVID-19 and/or tests positive for COVID-19, Williamson Central School District follows CDC recommendations for respiratory viruses,
Students can return to school when they meet the following criteria:

• Exhibit significant improvement of symptoms

AND

• Are fever free for at least 24 hours without taking fever reducing medications

Consult with your child’s school nurse if you have any questions.

We appreciate and thank you for following these CDC guidelines so that we can keep our schools healthy!

NATIONAL HEALTHY SKIN MONTH

Every November, National Healthy Skin Month is observed to encourage people to take better care of their skin and to promote public awareness of skin cancer prevention. It’s a time to pay attention to your skin, learn about skin care, and adopt habits that can lead to a lifetime of healthier skin, hair, and nails. Our skin is our largest organ, and taking care of it is important for our overall health. This month, focus on ways to keep skin healthy, like staying hydrated, using sunscreen, and practicing good hygiene. Healthy skin habits help prevent dryness, irritation, and even sun damage. By teaching your child to care for their skin early on, you can help them stay healthy and feel good in their own skin. Working together we can promote healthy skin for everyone!

Learn more at American Academy of Dermatology Association

NATIONAL HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS MONTH

November is National Homelessness Awareness Month, a time to learn about homelessness and how we can help those in need. Many families and individuals in our communities don’t have a safe, warm place to stay. This month, talk with your child about kindness and empathy, and consider simple ways to support local shelters or food banks - like donating blankets, warm clothes, or canned goods. Every little bit helps, and by working together, we can make a difference for those who need it most!

Learn more at SAMHSA.

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month! Epilepsy is a condition that affects the brain and can cause seizures. It can happen to people of all ages, including children. This month, we want to help families learn more about epilepsy and understand how we can support those who have it. Knowing the facts about epilepsy can help us all be kinder and more understanding. Let’s work together to spread awareness and make our school a safe, supportive place for everyone!

Learn more at The Epilepsy Foundation.

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a health condition that affects how our bodies use sugar for energy. It can affect both adults and children. This month, we encourage everyone to learn more about diabetes and how to make healthy choices, like eating nutritious foods, staying active, and getting regular check-ups. By working together, we can support children and families in leading healthier lives and help prevent diabetes. Let’s spread awareness, understanding, and kindness!

Learn more at American Diabetes Association.

In the spring, you should have received information from your student’s health office containing a new Over the Counter form and a Release of Information form. We recommend completing and returning these forms to your student’s health office as soon as possible.

In order to help students remain in school, we are now keeping certain medications in stock in the health offices (Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Tums, etc.). These medications can be given if the Over the Counter form is on file for your child. The form needs to be signed by both a parent/guardian and a healthcare provider.

School Health Office Personnel often have to contact your student’s healthcare provider for physicals, clarification on orders, etc. Most healthcare providers now require a Release of Information form to be on file or they will not be able to send the required information to the health office.

Link to OTC form

Link to Release of Information Form

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your student’s health office.

Bethany R. Moore RN, BSN

High School Nurse

Nurse Coordinator

315-589-9625

bmoore@williamsoncentral.org

315-410-5470 (fax)

Middle School

315-589-9665, ext. 3521

315-410-5586 (fax)

Hayley Musclow, RN

Elementary School Nurse

315-589-9668 option 3

hmusclow@williamsoncentral.org

315-410-5343 (fax)

• District Office
• Buildings and Grounds
• Elementary School Nurse
• Elementary, alternate location
• Middle School Nurse
• Middle School, alternate location
• High School Nurse
• High School, alternate location
• High School Athletics locations
• Floater

Coach --> Athletic Director --> Building Principal --> Superintendent --> Board of Education

There may be times when you have questions or concerns about your child's participation in athletics. Please be certain to use this chain of command so that you can receive a timely response from the staff member that is most directly involved in the situation.

When approaching a coach about an athletics concern, parents/guardians are encouraged to exercise the "24 hour rule" and to request a meeting or phone call outside of the practice/athletic competition environment.

As you move further along the chain of command, the staff is less directly involved and usually needs time to research the situation before they can give you an answer. If you do not hear back from the person you have contacted within 24 hours, it is time to move along to the next level of the chain. We do not expect your questions or concerns to go unanswered for a long period of time.

We all look forward to a wonderful school year with few complaints. Please note that compliments or acknowledgements of positive events can be directed to everyone along the chain. All of us appreciate hearing that there is something good that has happened!

Andy Kritall, Athletic Director
(315) 589-9621

• District Office
• Buildings and Grounds
• Elementary School Nurse
• Elementary, alternate location
• Middle School Nurse
• Middle School, alternate location
• High School Nurse
• High School, alternate location
• High School Athletics locations
• Floater

NYSPHSAA Spectator Expectations

• The New York State High School Athletics Association developed and will require that all school districts implement and enforce Sportsmanship Standards, effective Fall 2023.

• NYSPHSAA Expectation Statement: Officials, just like student athletes and coaches, are critical to interscholastic sports programs. Without officials, NYSPHSAA and its member schools would not be able to provide interscholastic sports in the manner that is desired and expected by student athletes, coaches, and parents. In addition to abiding by the HCS Code of Conduct, spectators are expected to “Be Loud, Be Proud, and Be Positive.” Negative comments and inappropriate behaviors by spectators are required to be addressed by all and any school supervisors and administrators, as a member of NYSPHSAA in the following non-sequential order depending on the comments or behavior:

• First warning – Directing the spectator or group of spectators to refrain from any negative comments or actions.

• Second warning – A personal discussion with the spectators or group of spectators on the above NYSPHSAA expectations and reminding the spectators or group of spectators of the next step - removal of the game or event - will be utilized if the behavior continues.

• Removal from the contest – The spectator or group of spectators will be directed to leave the facility for the remainder of the game or event.

• If spectators or group of spectators refuse to leave the game or event, play will be stopped until they vacate the premise.

• Penalty for being removed from a game or event: Any spectator removed from a game or event will have a minimum penalty of completing the NFHS Parent Credential course or a one game suspension before they are allowed to attend any interscholastic event, home or away.

• Once the course is completed the spectator will provide a certificate of completion to the athletic department office.

• Schools are required to communicate with the offending spectator on the NYSPHSAA Sportsmanship Spectator Expectations.

• Spectators may be prohibited from attending current and future interscholastic contests based on their behavior. (Oct. 2022)

• Depending on the severity of the behavior/comments or future disqualifications by the offending spectator NYSPHSAA and the Section may get directly involved in the situation. (May 2023)

The Free & Reduced Application is on our website along with menus and other pertinent information. To access the Food Service website for the Williamson Central School District, do as follows:

• Click Departments, then
• Click on Food & Nutrition Services.

WCS has incorporated the Safe School Helpline as another means of communication for our learning community regarding safety concerns. The Safe School Hotline is yet another safety net and security measure designed to support the mental health needs of our students and community. Students may use the Safe School Helpline to report threats of violence, suicide and illegal activity that could harm students in our schools. It is a convenient, confidential way for anyone to report information about situations that might affect safety at our school. You can call the number any time of the day or night to report concerns about unsafe or potentially disruptive activities or situations including drug or alcohol abuse, weapons, or threats. All calls are completely confidential.

How can I report information?

Safe School Helpline: (800) 418-6423 EXT. 359

Online at: https://www.safeschoolhelpline.com/

Please watch the below video to learn more about the Safe School Helpline:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjy3ivG2uwg

Any incident of student misconduct may be linked to our Code of Conduct, but depending on the nature of misconduct may also intersect with DASA or the Sexual Harassment BOE Policy. The following is being shared in attempt to provide clarity for all WCS families.

WCS Code of Conduct:

• Per SED, the Board of Education of every school district within New York State is required to adopt and amend, as appropriate, a Code of Conduct for the maintenance of order on school property, including a school function, which shall govern the conduct of students, teachers and other school personnel as well as visitors and shall provide for the enforcement thereof.
• Any and all student misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct. Investigation and enforcement of Code of Conduct violations is the responsibility of building level administration, and may be supported by a Dean of Students and/or other support staff.
• The Code of Conduct articulates the range of progressive dispositions for offenses, and the district strives for consistency in its application.

Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) Policy:

• The DASA legislation is intended to provide students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function. Please review the above link for more information on DASA.
• Protected classes in the DASA legislation include: race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, and sex.
• Behaviors outlined in DASA are also identified as prohibited student conduct within the WCS Code of Conduct. As such, any such misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct.
• Please report any DASA concerns as outlined below:
  • Contact your building level administrator. Administration welcomes and encourages direct and open lines of communication with students and families.
  • Tell a trusted adult, such as any member of the mental health staff or a teacher. School personnel are required to notify an administrator in the event of such a report.
  • Complete the Incident Reporting Form located on our website. Building principals actively monitor this tool for reports of peer conflict, misconduct, bullying, and/or harassment.
• District appointed DASA Coordinators conduct DASA investigations. The WCS DASA Coordinators include the following staff members:
  • Ingrid Wander ESDASA@williamsoncentral.org
  • Amy Hanna MSDASA@williamsoncentral.org
  • Mark Blair HSDASA@williamsoncentral.org
• While the DASA Coordinator may conduct the investigation, our building level administrators are responsible for disposition of any "founded" DASA complaint.

Sexual Harassment (Student) Policy:

• Title IX is a federal law which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex and provides, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Please review the above link for more information.
• In August 2020, the U.S. Department of Education adopted new regulations to revise the definition of sexual harassment prohibited under Title IX, and also created new procedures for investigating allegations of sexual harassment covered by Title IX.
• Behaviors outlined in Title IX are also identified as prohibited student conduct within the WCS Code of Conduct. As such, any such misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct.
• Please note, however, in the event of a report of sexual harassment, the family of a student victim will be contacted by a district appointed Title IX Coordinator to discuss investigation options, time parameters for a formal Title IX investigation, and other considerations (such as confidentiality) of such an investigation.
• In the event a Title IX complaint is filed, the family of the alleged offender will also be contacted by district appointed Title IX Coordinator to discuss the investigation, time parameters and other considerations.
• The WCS Title IX Coordinators include:
  • Rob Snyder, High School Principal
  • Kate Taylor, Middle School Principal
  • Bryon Rockow, Middle School Assistant Principal
• Questions about Title IX information may be directed to the individuals named above or to wcstitleix@williamsoncentral.org.
• Title IX concerns should be reported as previously outlined above (and reinforced here):
  • Contact your building level administrator. Building administration welcome and encourage direct and open lines of communication with students and families. As Title IX Investigators, they also are “the lead” in any investigation and/or development of action steps to redress issues.
  • Tell a trusted adult, such as any member of the mental health staff or a teacher. School personnel are required to notify an administrator in the event of such a report.
  • Follow the Title IX Grievance process outlined on the website.
• Building level administrators are responsible for the disposition of any "founded" Title IX complaint.

To support student safety and encourage scholarly behaviors when using devices, the Williamson Central School District incorporated online services provided by GoGuardian a number of years ago. It may be helpful to know that over 10,000 other schools use GoGuardian to protect 5.5 million students across the world, and the Global Educator Institute has endorsed the GoGuardian Teacher product.

How are we using GoGuardian?

• WCS has chosen GoGuardian services to:

1. Help protect students against harmful and inappropriate online material
2. Help students stay “scholarly” and more focused when learning online
3. Help assess students’ progress towards class assignments

When and how does GoGuardian operate?

• GoGuardian’s web-based services operate on our school’s managed G Suite for Education Chrome accounts (i.e. when a student is logged into Chrome or a Chromebook with his/her school email address).
• GoGuardian Teacher enables teachers to use GoGuardian Teacher with students in their classes only during school hours from Monday through Friday.
• GoGuardian also enables the district to monitor student usage 24/7. When Beacon detects that a student is browsing content related to Self-Harm or Suicide, a notification will be sent to users in order of the Escalation List up to five times or until an action is taken on the alert card. Disclaimer: Regardless of school monitoring specific to reference of self harm, it is simply not possible to catch all activity. Parents maintain responsibility to supervise their children’s use of devices.

What are the school’s responsibilities?

• WCS selected GoGuardian services to help our students stay safer and more scholarly online. We will work with students during class time to help teach them digital responsibility and safety. Additionally, we will train teachers about how to operate GoGuardian and about our policies and procedures to help protect student privacy.

What are my parental/guardian and child’s responsibilities?

• We ask that students uses their school-managed Google accounts and school-managed devices for educational purposes within the boundaries of the WCS Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement.
• When a student is off campus, parents are responsible for supervising internet access and usage. We encourage you to discuss rules for appropriate internet usage with your child, and to reinforce lessons of digital citizenship and safety with him or her. We also highly encourage you to report any potential cyberbullying or other sensitive issues to us.

How does GoGuardian help protect my child’s privacy?

• To help your child remain scholarly and safe online, GoGuardian collects certain personally identifiable information about your child.
• GoGuardian has consulted with privacy experts, participates in privacy organizations, is a proud signatory of the Student Privacy Pledge, and has been awarded certifications by iKeepSafe for complying with both the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act and California student privacy laws. For more detailed information about GoGuardian, you may visit GoGuardian’s website, Trust & Privacy Center, GoGuardian’s Product Privacy Policy, and the attached COPPA Notice and Disclosure Form.

Lots of exciting things happening with PTSA for the upcoming school year!

2024-2025 Officers:

Veronica Weber - President

Lucia Copeland - Vice President

Alysha Peets - Treasurer

Patty Kimerly - Secretary

2024-2025 Meeting dates:

September 17

October 8

November 12

January 14

February 11

March 11

April 8

May 13

June 10

Please join PTSA as a member to help support our students, staff and families!

ES Community School Coordinator: Erin Rowley

erowley@williamsoncentral.org

315-589-9668

MS Community School Coordinator: Lisa Ryan

lryan@williamsoncentral.org

315-589-9665

The Williamson Central School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are currently seeking to hire SUBSTITUTES in the following areas:

• School Nurse
• Teachers
• Teacher Assistants
• Monitors (Hall/Cafeteria/Transportation)
• Bus Drivers
• Cleaners
• Typists
• Food Service Workers

Please complete the application as outlined on our website.

For Questions, Contact:

• Nikki Oathout Phone: (315) 589-9661, Email: noathout@williamsoncentral.org

BOE Meetings begin at 6:30pm and are scheduled in the Board of Education Conference Room at the Middle School. Our Board Meetings are all live-streamed to YouTube. Click here to be taken to the Williamson Central School District YouTube Page.

You may find additional information about the WCS Board of Education on the district website.

• July 8, 2024 Organizational
• Meeting July 1st
• July 19, 2024
• August 7, 2024
• August 28, 2024
• September 18, 2024
• October 16, 2024
• November 6, 2024
• December 4, 2024
• January 8, 2025
• January 28, 2025
• February 12, 2025
• March 4, 2025
• March 19, 2025
• April 9, 2025
• April 23, 2025
• May 7, 2025 Budget Hearing
• May 28, 2025
• June 18, 2025

Special Meeting Dates:

• May 20, 2025 - Annual Meeting/Board Member Election 1-9 p.m.

ELA - April 30/May 1

Math - May 12/13

Email: bashton@williamsoncentral.org
Website: https://www.williamsoncentral.org/

Location: 4184 Miller Street (P.O. Box 900) Williamson, NY 14589

Phone: 315-589-9661
Twitter: @EBridgetAshton