Leading with Faith

May 6, 2025

5/15/25 Last Day to Register for Free UB Summer Graduate Classes

5/21/25 Quarterly Government Services Update at 3:15pm

5/21/25 Erie 1 BOCES Title IIa Consortium Leadership Meeting, 8:30-10:30 am

5/30/25 Request 2025-26 Hardware, Software, & Library Materials Loans

6/1/25 Last day for Parents to Request Special Education Services from Districts

TBA NYSED Nonpublic Safety Equipment (NPSE) Claims Due

TBA NYSED Elementary School AIS Claims Due

8/1/25 NYSED MST/STEM Grant & AMTS Art/Music Grant Submission Deadline

Special Education Students (IESP) Must Request Services by June 1: Remember that the parents of all Special Education students must request in writing by June 1st the continuation of services from the Public School District in which your school is located. NYS law requires this even though not all districts follow through and deny services for those who fail to do so. My thought is, better safe than sorry. Please encourage parents of any current or newly-registered student with an IESP to submit a signed letter requesting Special Education services from the Public School District by June 1st. Please remember that these letters must come from the parents. Once they write their letters, I would recommend that you ask for parents to share a copy with you so you know they sent it before the deadline. I found a sample parent letter here. If you can make up a draft letter that includes the correct District contact information so that parents can just edit the student name I am sure they would appreciate the assistance. FYI - Here is a link with the regulations on this (look under “Provision of Special Education Services”). All that being said, NYS and Federal law allows the public school districts to deny services when a parent request for Special Ed services is not received by June 1st in almost every scenario you can imagine; if you are considering accepting a student with an IEP after June 1st, that child will not be eligible to receive Special Education services until the 2026-27 school year (if they still qualify) so make your admission determination based on the fact that the student will not be receiving Special Education services from the public school district in 2025-2026.

Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA): Sr. Dale McDonald, PBVM, Ph.D., from the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) wrote a wonderful article explaining the ECCA in the Spring 2025 issue of Momentum magazine. See the article below for information on why we need to advocate for the passage of the ECCA right now (click here). NCEA Momentum Spring 2025 ECCA, Dale McDonald.pdf

Advocacy: I continue to serve on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Advisory Committee on Catholic Education Policy (ACCEP). This Committee, made up of Catholic education practitioners, serves as an advisory group to the USCCB Secretariat of Catholic Education in its efforts to: maximize participation by Catholic school students and teachers in federally-funded educational programs; advocate on behalf of Catholic school students, teachers and administrators during reauthorization and/or revision of existing federal education programs; evaluate and support proposed federal legislation that could result in positive benefits for Catholic school students and staff and to oppose any such proposals that could result in negative outcomes; and monitor the implementation of federal statutes, as well as the development of regulations and guidelines that affect Catholic schools, including their students and staff. Our final FAAC meeting of 2024-2025 occurred from April 13-16 in Washington, D.C. and involved advocacy efforts for the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA). ECCA 1-page summary 1-6-25.pdf

Government Services Quarterly Update via Microsoft Teams, 5/21/25: On Wednesday, May 21st at 3:15pm, I will host the final quarterly online Government Services Update for school board chairs, principals, business managers, chaplains, and pastors. This quarter’s meeting will cover the MST Grant; Mandated Services HR Teachers vs. Students Suggestion; Title Consultation Support; Records Retention; and the End of Year Checklist. Our first three meetings lasted about 40 minutes so I hope those invited can carve out some time to attend. Invitations to the meeting along with the Microsoft Teams link will be sent out the week of May 12th.

Science Education Update: Progress, Plans for 2025-2026, and Upcoming Meeting

Progress on Science Curriculum Review and Plan:

Our dedicated PK-12 Science Team has been diligently reviewing a variety of science materials. Their thoughtful work is paving the way for consistent and high-quality science resources across all our schools, ensuring an enriching learning experience for every student.

Looking Ahead: Science Program Plans for 2025-2026

We're building on successful implementation and expanding our offerings for the upcoming school year:

• Grades K-5: System-Wide Alignment with Mystery Science: Based on overwhelmingly positive teacher feedback and the strong content endorsement from Erie 1 BOCES, all elementary schools will be utilizing Mystery Science for grades K-5. We're pleased to note that this will only require a few additional schools to adopt this engaging program, as many of you already have access!
  
  

• Funding Opportunity: STREAM Grants for Science Program Launch: To support the seamless implementation of our newly aligned science program, we strongly encourage you to explore available STREAM grant opportunities. These grants can provide valuable funding for purchasing necessary materials. Look for more opportunities over the summer about future grants.
  
  

• Material Options by Grade Band: To provide clarity and facilitate planning, here's a breakdown of the science material options for the 2025-2026 school year:
  
  

• Grades K-5 (All Schools): Mystery Science (Offers a robust foundation and is likely already accessible in your schools.)
  
  

• Grades K-5 (Choices for Supplemental Kits):

• Monroe BOCES 4 Science Kits

• Amplify

• Mystery Science Kit Packs

• Other

• Grades 6-8 (Choices):

• Amplify

• OpenSciEd

• Grades 9-12 (Choices):

• Kognity

• OpenSciEd

• New Visions

We firmly believe that this curriculum plan provides a strong, consistent foundation in the elementary grades while offering valuable and flexible choices to meet the diverse needs of our middle and high school science programs. We are genuinely excited about the positive impact this aligned approach will have on our students' science learning journey.

Upcoming May Science Meeting: May 20

Science teachers please use the link below to register for the next planning session:

Science Meeting Registration Form

Weekly Virtual Principal Meetings

Meeting Details:

• Day and Time: Wednesdays, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

• Platform: Microsoft Teams (link sent by Laurie)

Next Meeting: 5/7/25 - Data collection, May 15 principal meeting, and curriculum plan

eSchool

Just a few quick reminders as we are preparing for the end of the year, transfer students, and new registrations:

1. Remember to add the local school district for all new students to your school.

2. Mark all PK students as: Exclude From State Reporting and Exclude From State Attendance

3. All transfer students MUST use code 170 no matter the reason or where they are going.

STAR/Renaissance

The final STAR Testing window is May 19 - June 6. You can always view the testing schedule in your STAR program by:

1. Clicking on your Initials in the upper right corner

2. Clicking on Manage apps and users

3. Clicking on School Calendar

4. Clicking on Screening Windows

You will see something that looks like this:

Planting the Seeds for Next Year: End-of-Year Enrollment Planning in Elementary Schools

Alright, let's map out those end-of-year enrollment strategies for your school! It's a crucial time to lay the groundwork for a smooth and successful start to the next academic year.

As the school year winds down, the focus often shifts to field trips, final assessments, and well-deserved summer breaks. However, tucked amidst the end-of-year bustle lies a vital task: solidifying enrollment plans for the upcoming academic year. This isn't just about numbers; it's about proactively shaping your school community and ensuring a seamless transition for both new and returning families.

Why is end-of-year enrollment planning so critical?

• Accurate Projections: Knowing your anticipated enrollment numbers early allows for informed decisions regarding staffing, classroom assignments, and resource allocation.

• Smooth Transitions: Early planning facilitates a smoother onboarding process for new students and families, setting a positive tone from the start.

• Targeted Outreach: Identifying potential enrollment gaps or areas for growth early allows for focused outreach efforts during the summer months.

• Efficient Resource Management: From ordering materials to organizing classrooms, early enrollment data streamlines logistical preparations.

• Reduced Summer Stress: Addressing enrollment proactively minimizes last-minute rushes and anxieties for both school staff and families.

Cultivating a Strong Foundation: Key Strategies for End-of-Year Enrollment

To make the most of this crucial period, consider implementing these key strategies:

1. Review and Analyze Current Enrollment Data:

• Retention Rates: Analyze how many current students are expected to return. Identify any patterns in students leaving and understand the reasons, if possible.

• Feeder School Information: Connect with preschools and any junior high schools that feed into your elementary school to get an early estimate of incoming students.

• Sibling Enrollment: Reach out to current families to inquire about younger siblings who may be enrolling for the first time.

• Waiting Lists: Review your current waiting lists and begin the process of contacting families who may be offered a spot for the upcoming year.

2. Proactive Communication with Current Families:

• Intent to Return Surveys: Send out brief surveys to current families to confirm their child's enrollment for the next academic year. Make it easy and convenient for them to respond.

• Early Registration Opportunities: Offer a window for returning families to complete registration paperwork early, potentially offering incentives for timely completion.

• Information on Grade-Level Transitions: Provide families with information about what to expect in the next grade level, including curriculum highlights and any changes in routines.

3. Targeted Outreach to Prospective Families:

• Review Inquiry Data: Follow up with families who have previously expressed interest in your school.

• Community Events: Participate in local community events or host end-of-year open houses to showcase your school and engage with prospective families.

• Digital Presence: Ensure your school website and social media platforms are up-to-date with enrollment information, virtual tours, and testimonials.

• Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, libraries, and community centers to reach potential new families.

4. Streamline Registration Processes:

• Online Registration: Implement or optimize your online registration system to make it user-friendly and accessible for parents.

• Document Collection: Clearly communicate required enrollment documents and offer multiple ways for families to submit them.

• Welcome Materials: Prepare welcome packets for newly enrolled families containing essential information about the school, policies, and upcoming events.

5. Internal Planning and Coordination:

• Staffing Projections: Use early enrollment estimates to begin planning staffing needs for the next academic year.

• Classroom Allocation: Tentatively assign classrooms based on projected numbers, keeping in mind grade-level needs and any specialized programs.

• Resource Inventory: Assess current resources and anticipate needs for the upcoming year based on enrollment projections.

• Communication with Staff: Keep your staff informed about enrollment projections and any changes that may impact their roles.

6. Summer Engagement Strategies:

• Welcome Events for New Families: Consider hosting informal gatherings or orientations for newly enrolled families during the summer to help them connect with the school community.

• Summer Communication: Maintain communication with enrolled families through newsletters or email updates regarding important dates and back-to-school information.

Sowing the Seeds of Success: Benefits of Proactive End-of-Year Enrollment

By prioritizing end-of-year enrollment planning, elementary schools can reap significant rewards:

• Reduced Uncertainty: Having a clearer picture of enrollment numbers early on minimizes uncertainty and allows for more confident planning.

• Stronger School Community: Proactive engagement with both returning and new families fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the school community.

• Efficient Operations: Early planning leads to smoother logistical operations and better resource management.

• Positive First Impressions: A well-organized enrollment process creates a positive first impression for new families.

• Setting the Stage for a Successful Year: By addressing enrollment proactively, you lay a solid foundation for a thriving and successful academic year for all students.

Don't let end-of-year enrollment be an afterthought. By strategically planning now, you're not just filling classrooms; you're cultivating a vibrant and welcoming learning environment for the year ahead. So, let's get those seeds planted!

Have a safe and blessed week!

The Annual Cafeteria Managers Meeting is being planned for Monday, August 4th. The meeting will be held at St. Amelia’s Elementary School, 2999 Eggert Road, Tonawanda from 9:00 AM - Noon. Please pass this date onto your cafeteria managers.

The registration form will be sent out prior to Memorial Day.

Just a few reminders for the Diocesan Track Meet:

1. In the event that the track meet has to be cancelled, it will be done by 6:45 AM. Please send me the name and cell phone number of an individual who I can contact with this information.

2. On the day of the meet, coaches must register their students at the scorer’s table by 10:00 AM. Events will start by 10:15 AM.

3 No jewelry or spike shoes may be worn.

4. Qualifying cards should be filled out and secured to the student’s shirt or jacket by a safety pin. This should be done before the students board the bus.

5. Coaches get to know your bus driver. Exchange cell numbers just in case the day ends earlier than anticipated.

6. Hamburg Police will be on site directing the bus drivers where they should be parking.

7. Please make sure your students do not leave any personal items or garbage behind. Anything found will be thrown away.

8. Chaperones, please make sure that no students are roaming under the bleachers.

9. Coaches may be asked to help with lining the runners up for the relays and dash events.

If you have any questions, please contact me either by phone (716) 847-5504 or by emailing me at ndiberardino@buffalodiocese.org

The May Principals Meeting will be held on Thursday, May 15th at the Catholic Center in the Formation Room located on the first floor. Click on the link below to register to attend. https://forms.gle/pugxEWWozw9nFJ4S7 Important Information:

The eighth grade diplomas will be handed out at the Principals’ Meeting. There are a handful of schools who still owe for their diploma covers and diplomas. Please kindly send in your payment.

May Flowers Bring Spring STREAM Fun!

May began with a special celebration—National School Principals’ Day on May 1! We are deeply grateful for the incredible ministry of our Catholic school principals. Their leadership nurtures students, empowers teachers, and supports families in countless ways. I’m especially thankful for their enthusiastic support of our STREAM initiative and the warm welcome I’ve received from so many of them this year.

→ Need some fresh ideas for spring STREAM fun? Below are a few creative ways to bring science, technology, religion, engineering, the arts, and math into your classrooms this month. You can also get them on a flyer to share with your team here!

Mother’s Day (May 12)
What better time to combine creativity and science than in preparing something special for the moms, grandmas, and caregivers in our students’ lives? From homemade bath bombs to flower chromatography, STREAM-inspired gifts can be meaningful and educational. A great opportunity to talk about how love and care are expressed in God’s creation—and in science! This website from Science Buddies is full of ideas.

National Frog Jumping Day (May 13)
Yes, it’s real—and it’s a perfect excuse to mix biology and engineering! Explore frog habitats or the physics of jumping. For a hands-on twist, try building origami jumping frogs. Students can test and modify their designs, tracking which ones jump the farthest. STREAM meets silliness—and it’s awesome.

Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day (May 16)
Use this day to connect faith, service, and STREAM thinking. Challenge students to design a small kindness project using technology or engineering—maybe a card-delivery robot, a kindness chain with acts of kindness (or try adding QR codes linking to affirming messages!), or a class podcast sharing uplifting thoughts for the community. Loving our neighbor is a call to action, and STREAM gives students the tools to act creatively and thoughtfully.

Memorial Day (May 27)
As we honor those who gave their lives in service to our country, STREAM can help deepen understanding. Students might design poppy-themed art using found materials, analyze the geometry of flags, or explore digital atlases of significant U.S. wars using geography and math. In your discussions, tie it all back to the values of courage, sacrifice, and faith.