Spring 2025
Important Dates
The last day of school for elementary students is a half-day scheduled for Thursday, June 26, 2025. The academic calendar for middle and high school will conclude as originally planned.
As mentioned previously, in recent years, the final scheduled day for elementary students has been determined by the number of snow days used throughout the school year. Each snow day adds an additional day of attendance for elementary students to comply with the New York State Education Department’s 180-day instructional requirement.
Please refer to the graphic below for a snapshot of key end-of-year dates and any updates.
🌟 Celebrating Student Growth and Success
Academy of Finance at Orchard Park High School Reaches Model Level
The Orchard Park High School Academy of Finance is among a select group who have reached NAF’s model level for 2025. These academies are being spotlighted for their excellent efforts in delivering high-quality educational experiences for high school students nationwide.
Model level is determined by an academy’s score on the assessment, which measures strengths and challenges in implementing NAF’s results-driven design that prepares students for success in college and careers. The assessment is designed to help all academies assess their progress and advance on the continuum of NAF’s standards.
In the classroom, NAF transforms how we think about education, going beyond what traditional high schools offer with personalized learning environments and career-focused curricula. Outside the classroom, students are equipped with future-ready skills and industry-specific knowledge to be successful in any pathway they choose.
NAF Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Dughi, said, “Congratulations to all our Katherine Blasik Distinguished and NAF Model academies on this esteemed recognition! We’d also like to put our hands together for our academies joining the ranks for the first time. NAF celebrates you and is thrilled to spotlight your contributions and successes in preparing the next generation of leaders. We thank you for your hard work and dedication, and know that the entire network will benefit from your impressive exemplars.”
“This prestigious recognition is a true reflection of the dedication and collaboration that drive the success of our Academy of Finance,” said Kristen Casto, Academy Director. “Our achievements would not be possible without the hard work of our students, the passion of our teachers, the guidance of our advisory board, and the unwavering support of our business and community partners. This honor is a testament to the power of teamwork at its finest.”
STEAM Expo at OPMS
On March 6, 2025, Orchard Park Middle School hosted its fourth annual STEAM Expo, bringing together students, alumni, teachers, and community members for an evening of interactive Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math activities. More than 50 students in grades 6-8 presented projects on the properties of matter, functional hoverboards, Lego clocks, and more.
Attendees had the chance to drive student-built competition robots, explore hands-on STEAM activities led by district educators, and experience an immersive planetarium presentation. The event also featured creative projects from the Art Department, Visual Arts Boosters, and Technology and Math teachers, including binary bracelets, sand art, and optical illusions. The evening concluded with live, student-created cardboard boat races.
Sealing the Deal: Student-Athletes Sign Letters of Commitment
On Wednesday, April 23, we honored fifteen seniors for their commitment to continuing their athletic careers in college. We are so proud of their hard work!
Congratulations:
Leah B. will be playing tennis at Brockport. 🎾
Elise B. will be playing field hockey at Brockport.🏑
Julia B. will be playing Field Hockey at SUNY Oswego. 🏑
Annabelle C. will be running cross country and track and field at SUNY Geneseo. 👟
Mickey G. will be playing golf at SUNY Niagara. ⛳
Wyatt K. will be playing volleyball at Baldwin Wallace University. 🏐
Anthony M. will be participating in track and field at Binghamton University. 👟
Natalia P. will be playing rugby at La Salle University 🏉
Will R. will be playing football at Buffalo State College. 🏈
Rory S. will be playing rugby at St. Bonaventure University. 🏉
Halle S. will be playing field hockey at SUNY Geneseo. 🏑
Sophia S. will be playing rugby at West Chester University 🏉
Joey T. will be swimming at Hobart and William Smith College. 🏊
Travon T. will be playing football at Baldwin Wallace University. 🏈
Noah W. will be playing soccer at Hilbert College. ⚽
🌟 Fostering a Positive School Community
Fiddle Club Brings Music and Inspiration to South Davis 🎼
On Wednesday, March 26, the High School Fiddle Club, led by Orchestra Director and Fiddle Club Advisor Mr. Alex Safford, visited South Davis Elementary for a special musical collaboration with the third grade. During the visit, third graders led by Mrs. Emma Glasgow performed their circle dance to Irish Washerwoman alongside the Fiddle Club, listened to a selection of lively tunes, and participated in a question and answer session with the high school musicians. The event was especially meaningful, as third grade is the year students begin exploring instrument choices. Seeing older students perform and speak about their experiences provided inspiration and a first-hand look at the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in the district’s music program.
Ellicott STEM Club Mini Golf
Eggert Author Visit
On Thursday, April 10, Eggert Elementary welcomed children's author Mylisa
Larsen for an inspiring and fun-filled Author’s Day. A native of Syracuse, Mylisa engaged students with her love of literature and showed them how the writing process can be just as exciting as playing a game.
In the days leading up to the event, students let their creativity shine in a pajama design contest. Fourteen winners were selected to enjoy a special lunch with Mylisa, where they could ask questions and learn more about life as a writer.
The visit left a lasting impression on students and staff alike. A big thank you goes out to the Author’s Day Committee, the PTO, and OPFAE for their generous support in bringing this memorable experience to Eggert!
Bald for Bucks
Orchard Park High School once again rallied together for a cause that hits close to home. Organized by Mrs. Downs's Leadership Class, this year’s Bald for Bucks fundraiser brought students, staff, and community members together in support of cancer research at Roswell Park.
The event offered more than just haircuts—participants could shave, cut, or style their hair while enjoying lighthearted moments like seeing teachers get a pie in the face, along with a basket raffle and bake sale. Thanks to the enthusiastic turnout and community spirit, the school raised over $10,000, making it a memorable afternoon of purpose, and generosity.
🌟 Connecting with Our Families and Community
Family Solutions Center Clothing Drive
International Night at EG
Eggert Elementary hosted its fourth annual International Night on Thursday, April 3, welcoming more than 400 students and their families for an evening filled with cultural celebration, learning, and fun. The event offered a vibrant mix of activities, food, and experiences that showcased the rich diversity within the Eggert community. This special evening celebrated the diverse cultures within our school community through crafts, games, Peruvian Salsa dance lessons, Henna, samples of international food, a school-wide art show featuring Eggert's students' art from around the world, a scavenger hunt, Virtual Reality, and more! Thank you to everyone who participated, planned, and joined us for an incredible evening.