Dear WCS Students, Families, Staff and Community Members,

We hope everyone has enjoyed a restful and fun-filled Spring Break! While students and staff have been away, it's been a busy and productive week across the district—with several facilities projects, deep cleaning, and planning efforts underway to support a strong finish to the school year.

We’re thrilled to welcome back all of our Marauders on Monday, April 21 and look forward to all the excitement, growth, and celebration that the spring season brings. As we move through April, the excitement is mounting as we begin the countdown to Commencement for the Class of 2025! This is such a special time of year, filled with milestones and memories in the making. Hold on...much to share with you this month as we kick off the relentless hustle which will exist between now and June 27!

April 2025 District Newsletter Highlights - Hope you will read on...

• Superintendent Updates

1. District Safety - Threat Assessment
2. District Safety - Emergency Response Plan
3. Administrative Reconfiguration
4. Strategic Planning
5. Facilities Update
6. 2025-26 Budget Update
7. 2025-26 Budget Video Links
8. Annual Election Information

• Building Newsletters
• District Level Updates from Rachel Liberatore, Kelly Colling and Karen Hoody
• Health Related Updates from Bethany Moore, Nurse Coordinator for WCS
• Reminders from Technology Department
• Athletics Updates from Bryon Rockow, Athletic Director
• Operational Updates from Food Service and Transportation

District Safety Update: Threat Assessment

In alignment with our ongoing commitment to student safety and well-being, we are currently launching a consistent, district-wide approach to threat assessment through the Harm Prevention and Threat Management (HPTM) model. The HPTM model is also utilized across the county by many school districts and the Wayne County Sheriff's Department.

Our approach to this model of Threat Assessment has been thoughtfully developed through collaboration between our administrative, counseling and mental health teams. It provides a structured and clear process for responding to threats of harm, including steps for investigation and assessing the level of concern. Each case is evaluated using specific criteria, with outcomes categorized as:

• Unfounded – no factual basis

• Factual – with levels designated as low, medium, or high, based on the nature and seriousness of the threat

Implementation of the HPTM model ensures that our response to threat is both proactive and compassionate. It emphasizes mental health interviews and assessment, supportive measures and monitoring, communications, and coordination with law enforcement. Each school has a designated School-Based Threat Management Team (SBTMT), which includes counselors, administrators, psychologists, and social workers. These teams have been actively engaged in professional learning to prepare for implementation. We engaged in training with Crisis Leadership Preparedness Solutions (CLPS) on March 11, followed by a series of subsequent sessions throughout the month of March. Next steps for the district include conducting tabletop exercises with each School Based Threat Management Team. These exercises will help ensure teams are confident and prepared to apply the HPTM model in real-world situations. We are proud to move forward with this important work specific to district safety!

District Safety Update: District Safety Plan

The District Safety Team is currently conducting a comprehensive review of our District-Wide Emergency Response Plan (ERP) to ensure alignment with updated regulations and best practices. As part of this process, the team is referencing the SED guidance document and conducting a detailed crosswalk to ensure full compliance. Additionally, the team is developing language for specific addendums related to Extracurricular and Athletic Emergency Response Procedures and a Remote Learning Plan, in accordance with state regulation.

The updated District-Wide Emergency Response Plan will be presented to the Board of Education during the Reorganization Meeting in July, followed by a 30 day public comment period prior to BOE approval.

We remain committed to the ongoing enhancement of our safety practices and thank our entire community for supporting this critical work. As always, our focus remains on the safety, growth, and success of every student.

Futuring: Strategic Planning

The District is deeply engaged in forward-looking work that will shape the future of our schools. We are currently collaborating with various stakeholders around the development of a strategic plan centered on the four identified essential objectives that will guide priorities & actions:

• Student Achievement
• Safe Learning Community for All
• Community Connections
• Fiscal Stewardship

Strategic planning encompasses the consideration of growth areas, identification of actionables to support continuous improvement in the growth areas, and articulation for measures of success. Stay tuned - I hope to have more to share with the WCS community around strategic planning for the district this summer.

Administrative Reconfiguration in 2025-26

As I shared in a recent Parent Square communication, the district will be experiencing an administrative reconfiguration in the 2025-26 school year. The reconfiguration reflects a strength based approach to consideration of individual admin team member contributions and strengths while best positioning us to reach for new heights within a reduced, reconfigured model of leadership at WCS. On April 9th, the Board approved the below recommendations for appointment, effective July 1, 2025:

• ES Principal: Kelly Colling (formerly Director of Pupil Personnel Services)
• ES Assistant Principal & Associate of Student and Family Services: Jessica Craft
• MS Principal: Kathryn Taylor
• MS Assistant Principal & Athletic Director: Bryon Rockow
• HS Principal: Robert Snyder
• HS Assistant Principal & Data Coordinator: TBD
• Assistant Superintendent of Student and Family Services: Rachel Liberatore (formerly Assistant Superintendent of Instruction)
  • The Assistant Superintendent of Student and Family Services at Williamson Central School District will lead and oversee a variety of student support programs, including special education, ENL, mental health, counseling, health services, student registration, and services for homeless, and foster care. Additionally, the Assistant Superintendent of Student and Family Services will supervise and lead programming for the Trauma Illness Grief (TIG) team, Community Schools, homeschooling, and grant writing.
• Coordinator of Instruction, Innovation and Intervention: Karen Hoody (formerly MTSS Intervention Coordinator)
  • The Instruction, Innovation, and Intervention Coordinator at Williamson Central School District will oversee the delivery of high-quality, research-based instruction and interventions across the district. Key responsibilities include managing Tier 1 universal instruction, implementing MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), promoting literacy and math initiatives, supporting the development of new courses (including Career and Technical Education), and aligning curriculum with the district’s Portrait of a Graduate initiative. The role also involves supporting state testing, managing the district's curriculum review cycle, integrating instructional technology, and handling state reporting and grant writing.

To ensure that we hit the ground running on July 1, we will engage in transition planning over the next few months to support coordination and optimization within our new administrative team structure. Thank you in advance for your patience and support of administrative team members as they shift in professional responsibilities.

Facilities Update: April 2025

We’re continuing to make meaningful progress across the district with updates and improvements to our buildings and infrastructure. Below is a summary of current activity related to our Capital Improvement Project, building-specific facilities work, and our 2025–26 Capital Outlay Proposal.

Elementary School

1. Counters over univents: Issues remain related to balance and functionality.Issues being addressed by contractors.
2. Kitchen: Final punch list items are being addressed.
3. Heating system: Final turnover and server update from Johnson Controls is pending.
4. Plumbing: Work is complete.
5. Roof: The district continues to work with architects around identification of next steps to redress roof stabilization.

Middle School

1. Trespa panel installation: Delivery of panels (hallway areas currently covered by painted plywood) expected on April 21. Installation estimated to begin shortly thereafter after.
2. Curtain cleaning: Still to be scheduled.
3. Boiler flue: Final outstanding item in progress.

High School

1. Plumbing repair: Quote has been accepted to repair underground lines damaged by tree roots. Work is scheduled for this summer. There will be no impact to the memorials, though removal of the tree in the courtyard is being considered to prevent future damage.
2. Auditorium: Curtains were cleaned on April 3/ General cleaning of this space occurred on 4/16.
3. Gymnasium Floor: Sanding completed this week. Staining scheduled for week ending 4/25. Projection completion anticipated by 5/1 or sooner.

Looking Ahead: 2025–26 Capital Outlay Project

As part of our ongoing effort to maximize state aid and make the most of every district tax dollar, Williamson CSD will again propose a mini-renovation project for the upcoming school year.

The proposed $100,000 Capital Outlay Project will focus on replacing select interior and exterior doors, hardware, and related construction at the High School. This work addresses deteriorating conditions, enhances building security, and improves performance.

By including this work in a capital project:

• The district will qualify for approximately $84,300 in state aid to be received during the 2026–27 school year.

• Without this approach, the district would have to cover the full cost with local funds.

This strategy is part of a long-term capital planning model designed to return building aid annually, helping fund future small-scale renovation projects as part of the regular district budget.

Budget Update: Planning for 2025–26

As shared in previous communications, revenue projections have been established, giving us a clearer understanding of the funds available for the next fiscal year. While we continue to await the finalized New York State budget—delayed by several extensions—there is speculation that an increase in Foundation Aid may still be forthcoming.

In the meantime, we are finalizing expenditures across the three primary areas of our school budget:

• Instructional

• Capital

• Administrative

Our goal remains to deliver a balanced budget that supports the needs of our students while maintaining a strong sense of fiscal responsibility. In preparing the proposed 2025-26 budget, the district made adjustments to align expenditures with available resources. These adjustments include the use of administrative reconfiguration, attrition, breakage, and right-sizing of expenditures in response to a fiscal environment where the rate of expenditure growth continues to exceed revenue growth.

We are committed to making thoughtful, mission-aligned decisions that prioritize resources where they are needed most. Our focus remains on maintaining strong educational programming and student support, while ensuring the long-term financial health of the district.

In addition to written updates and BOE presentations, we will be releasing a video series to provide deeper insight into the budget development process.

Video Series:

• Video 1: "What is a Three-Part Budget?" (Released March 14)
  In this video, we explain the structure of the school district's budget, breaking down what the instructional, capital, and administrative components are and how they must factor into budget planning.

• Video 2: "2025-26 Budget: Revenues Anticipated" (Released April 4)
  This video will provide a closer look at the actual revenue sources for the upcoming year.

• Video 3: "2025-26 Budget: Expenditures" (Released April 15)
  The final video in the series will highlight the anticipated expenditures for the year, explaining how we plan to allocate resources across instructional, capital, and administrative needs.

Please mark your calendars with these important budget development dates:

• April 23: Budget Presentation to the BOE
• May 7: Budget Hearing and Meet the Candidate Night (6:30 PM)
• May 20: Annual Meeting: Uniform Statewide Budget Vote and BOE Election

We encourage all members of our community to stay engaged and informed throughout this important process. Your input and understanding are key to making the best decisions for the future of our students and our district.

Annual Election - May 20, 2025: Two Board of Education (BOE) Seat Vacancies

The Williamson Central School District will hold its Annual Election on May 20, 2025, for two Board of Education (BOE) seat vacancies. Petitions are now available at the District Office, located at 4184 Miller Street, Williamson, NY.

Petition Details:

• Hours: Petitions and candidate information can be picked up Monday through Friday, from 8:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. at the District Office.
• Deadline: Completed petitions must be submitted no later than Monday, April 21, 2025, by 5:00 P.M..

Board of Education Member Qualifications: To be eligible to run for the BOE, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be able to read and write.
• Have residency in the Williamson Central School District for at least one year prior to the election.
• Cannot be an employee of the Williamson Central School District.

Expiring Terms:

• Ashtyn Mohanlall: 3-year term, July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2028.
• Jamie Sonneville: 3-year term, July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2028.

For more information on running for the Board of Education, please refer to the NYSSBA's Informational Guide: Running for the School Board. We encourage all eligible community members interested in contributing to our school district's future to consider running for a seat on the Board of Education.

Speaking of Which... Ex Officio Student BOE Member

We are pleased to share important information with the community regarding a new development for our school district. On September 5, 2024, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed Bill S.9018A/A.9855A into law, which amends the Education Law to require all school districts with high schools and BOCES to appoint at least one high school student as an ex officio, non-voting member of their boards. This law will go into effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to foster civic engagement among students, providing them with an opportunity to have a voice in school policies and operations.

Role and Responsibilities of an Ex Officio Student BOE Member

In alignment with the new law, the Williamson Central School District Board of Education (BOE) will appoint at least one ex officio student member. The ex officio student member will serve a one-year term, beginning July 1 and ending June 30. The role of the ex officio student BOE member includes the following responsibilities:

• Attend all public meetings and hearings, sitting with the board members,
• Participate in other BOE activities and responsibilities, at the discretion of the Board,
• Not attend executive sessions or any meetings not open to the public,
• Not receive compensation, and
• Not have voting rights as a member of the Board of Education.

The elected student BOE member will additionally provide a brief monthly update to the Superintendent and the Board of Education, highlighting key issues or concerns from the student body.

Eligibility to Serve as an Ex Officio Student BOE Member

To be eligible for this position, students must meet the following criteria:

• Be a member of the senior class.
• Have attended the high school for at least one year prior to their appointment.

Process for Selection

Current juniors interested in running for the Ex Officio Student BOE member position in 2025-26 will follow the below process for selection:

1. Notice of Interest: Interested juniors must submit a written notice of interest (via email) to the Superintendent by 3:00 PM on May 1, 2025.

2. Meeting with the Superintendent and Principal: Interested students must attend a meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025, during 10th period in Room #1 at the High School. This meeting will provide further details about the role, time commitment, and election process.

3. Candidate Speech: Each junior candidate must prepare and deliver a brief speech articulating

   • Why they are running for the Ex Officio Student BOE seat, and
   • How they intend to represent the student body and give them a voice.

   These speeches will be delivered to the WCS student body on Monday, May 7, 2025, during Forum. Copies of the speech text will also be made available on the High School building webpage.

4. Student Body Election: The student body will vote on their candidate on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, which mirrors the date of our district’s Budget Vote and Annual Election. All students in grades 9-12 will have the opportunity to vote during the school day.

5. Announcement: The successful candidate will be announced end of school day on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

We are excited to offer our students this new opportunity to have a direct role in shaping the future of our school district. It is an important step toward fostering greater civic engagement and empowering our students to actively contribute to the governance of their educational experience.

We encourage all interested students to consider this opportunity and wish the best of luck to all potential candidates!

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in this incredible work! 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 regards,

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

18th Annual Middle School Art Exhibit 2025

• Some of our students will have work displayed at Wayne County Council for the Arts. The exhibit will run 4/10-5/10 and the Artist Reception will be May 4th 2-4. This exhibit showcases artwork from Middle school students from the Wayne County area. Only a select number of artists will be selected to be in this exhibit and I will be sending a letter home to parents to let them know their child was selected.

MS International Festival - May 16
MS Fine Arts Fest (combining spring concert & MS art show) - May 20

Coming Soon: NYS ELA and Math Testing in Grades 3 - 8

School districts in New York State are required to annually administer tests in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics in Grades 3–8. The Grades 3–8 ELA and Mathematics NYS Testing Program has been designed by the state to measure student proficiency levels against grade-level New York Next Generation Learning Standards (NGLS) in ELA and Mathematics. Student proficiency on these assessments is captured in one of four performance levels:

• NYS Level 4: Students performing at this level excel in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the Learning Standards that are considered more than sufficient for the expectations at this grade.
• NYS Level 3: Students performing at this level are proficient in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the Learning Standards that are considered sufficient for the expectations at this grade.
• NYS Level 2: Students performing at this level are partially proficient in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the Learning Standards that are considered partial but insufficient for the expectations at this grade. Students performing at Level 2 are considered on track to meet current New York high school graduation requirements but are not yet proficient in Learning Standards at this grade.
• NYS Level 1: Students performing at this level are below proficient in standards for their grade. They may demonstrate limited knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the Learning Standards that are considered insufficient for the expectations at this grade.

WCS will administer NYS ELA Computer Based Testing (CBT) to all students in Grades 3 - 8 as follows:

• April 8-10: Grades 5-8 ELA Testing - COMPLETED
• April 30 & May 1: Grades 3-4 ELA Testing
• April 30 & May 1: Grades 5-8 Math Testing
• May 12-13: Grades 3-4 Math Testing
• May 13: Grades 5 & 8 Science Testing

Notes:

• You may anticipate more specific information about the logistical aspects of New York State ELA, Math & Science testing in Grades 3 - 8 to be shared soon by respective building principals.
• Parents may access additional resources on the NYSED website to support better understanding of the NYS Grades 3 - 8 ELA, Math and Science assessments administered in our schools.

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

See link below.

Greeting from the Middle School Principal,

During the middle years, we encourage students to explore their interests and passions. Both during and after the school day, students engage in activities that explore their interests. Many of our students express their talents through the Fine Arts. We have a robust Fine Arts program. Students can participate in both choir and band during school day, but we also have a range of activities after school as well. Mr DeGrave oversees a jazz band ensemble while Mrs Baldwin supervises Art Clubs. In the art club, students work with a range of mediums to explore their artistic side. Mrs France, Mr DeGrave and Mrs Baldwin take great efforts to showcase their students’ abilities. During forum, students have the opportunity to play for an audience. Mrs Baldwin works to display all the artwork throughout the entire school. It enhances the atmosphere of the building.

We are pleased to announce that we will be hosting a Fine Arts Festival on the evening of May 20th. The festival will coincide with our 5th and 6th grade Spring Concert. Families are invited to tour the building and peruse our visual arts. Mrs Baldwin will also be providing refreshments in the art room. Families can conclude their evening at the spring concert.

Please join us for an evening of refreshments and the amazing artistic endeavors of our Middle School students!

Ms Taylor

Middle School Principal

Greetings from Miss Saxby ~ Williamson Elementary Principal:

Spring has sprung – at least we hope it has! We are certainly ready for the sunny, warm weather. Just a reminder as we transition from the winter season to the spring your child may still need snow pants and boots. The students play in the grassy areas around the school during recess, so snow pants and boots come in handy! Classroom teachers will let you know when snow gear is no longer needed.

This season also brings the final phase of the school year. It is hard to believe we are in the homestretch, but that is the case! With the end of the school year comes continued learning and growing as your child continues to work on grade level goals. Please continue to monitor your child’s progress by reading with them on a regular basis, reviewing homework and checking in with the teacher. We want all the students to finish on a solid foot.

Once again, we will have a shared summer school program with Marion once again this year. The program runs for four weeks during July (mornings). This year summer school will take place in Marion, with transportation provided. Teachers will be making their summer school recommendations soon, so if you have any questions reach out to your child’s teacher.

We continue to focus on building the school community here in the elementary school while also focusing on our PRIDE philosophy!

Thank you for your continued support!

Miss Ellen Saxby

Williamson Elementary Principal

Participating in college level courses, such as Project Lead the Way, Advanced Placement, or Dual Enrollment classes, offers opportunities for personal and academic growth. Whether students are looking to dive deeper into a subject they are passionate about or earn college credit while still in high school, there are many benefits of participating in advanced coursework.

1. Problem Solving:

Advanced coursework requires students to think critically and engage in problem solving. This strengthens their ability to approach challenges in innovative ways, a skill that will serve them well in college and in their future careers.

2. College Credit & Readiness:

Students can earn credits that may count toward their college degree, saving both time and money in the future. Earning college credit while still in high school demonstrates that a student is prepared for higher-level academic work. Advanced coursework helps students build the academic and organizational skills needed to thrive in college.

3. Deepening Content Knowledge & Improving Communication Skills:

In advanced courses, students have the opportunity to explore subjects in much greater depth. This knowledge enhances their overall academic profile and prepares them for specialized studies in college. Advanced coursework offers students numerous opportunities to improve their communication skills, through research papers, presentations, or discussions.

Here at Williamson CSD, we are proud to offer an assortment of college level courses. Please visit our course catalog for a complete list of offerings. You can reach out directly to our High School counseling team for more information.

Did you know?

Williamson CSD offers a CTE (Career and Technical Education) pathway for students. The Pre-Engineering Pathway is designed to provide students with the academic, technical, and real world knowledge they need to be prepared for any Engineering and Robotics fields or occupations related to Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, and Computer Design. For more information, please reach out directly to our High School counseling team.

The Williamson Middle School is also proud to offer advanced coursework:

• Seventh grade Math Accelerated Course: This course is for 7th grade students and combines course work of both 7th and 8th grade math in one year. The pace and expectations are rigorous. This course is designed to prepare students for the HS credit bearing Algebra 1 course as 8th grade students.

• Seventh grade English Accelerated Course: This course combines novels and themes of both 7th and 8th Grade ELA with rigorous reading and writing expectations. It is designed to prepare students for the HS credit bearing English 9 course as 8th graders.

• HS Earth Science: This course is available to students in 8th grade. Students who participate are engaged in higher level math and reading skills. Students take the Earth Science Regents at the end of the year.

• HS Algebra: This course is available to students in 8th grade who have taken the Accelerated Math 7th/8th course. Students who participate are engaged in higher level math skills. At the end of the year, students take the Algebra Regents.

• English 9: This course is available to students in 8th grade who have taken the Accelerated ELA 7th/8th course. Students who participate are engaged in higher level literacy skills.

For more information about advanced coursework at the Middle School, please reach out directly to our counseling team.

All Types of Communication Welcome Here at Williamson

Here at Williamson, we support all types of communication, whether verbal, nonverbal, or through the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. On a daily basis, one can observe AAC devices being seamlessly integrated into classrooms. Because of this, students are making incredible strides in their ability to express themselves.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices play a crucial role in supporting students with speech or language impairments in schools. These devices, which range from simple picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating systems, provide an alternative means for students to express themselves, communicate with peers and teachers, and participate in classroom activities. The use of AAC devices promotes inclusion, allowing students who may otherwise struggle with verbal communication to engage more fully in academic and social settings. Additionally, AAC devices enhance literacy development, foster independence, and reduce frustration, helping students build confidence and improve their overall communication skills. By integrating AAC into educational environments, schools create a more supportive and equitable learning space for all students.

It’s amazing to see Williamson students not just using AAC to communicate but actively participating and developing new skills to express their ideas, desires, and needs. This success wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated participation of both staff and students, who are all committed to making AAC a seamless part of the classroom experience.

See below for Foodlink Opportunity!

Keep Your Cases On!

Students must keep their cases on their Chromebook (this is not optional). These cases are not bulky and do not limit use. This is done to prevent accidental damage. Please make sure your student has their case on and the Chromebook is charged to start the day.

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.

AI Fools!

Here are some tips around AI to keep you and your data safe! From StaySafeOnline.org

Tip Sheet 1

Tip Sheet 2

Spring is here, and it’s a great time for kids to get moving! Warmer weather means more chances to play outside and enjoy the fresh air. Staying active is good for your child’s body and mind. Fun after-school activities like walking, riding a bike, or playing at the park are great ways to get exercise and have fun at the same time.

Before jumping into any activity, it’s important to stretch and warm up. This helps prevent injuries and gets the body ready to move. Even just a few minutes of stretching can make a big difference.

Don’t forget safety! If your child is riding a bike or scooter, they should always wear a helmet to protect their head. Talk to your child about bike safety. This should include looking both ways, watching for cars, and using hand signals when turning.

With more time outside, it’s also important to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. Remind your child to drink water before, during, and after playing. Sunscreen helps protect their skin, even on cloudy days. Let’s help our students build healthy habits this spring that can last a lifetime!

The April 2025 theme for Child Abuse Prevention Month is “Powered By Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”

• The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) has several initiatives schools leverage to promote child and family well-being.

• HEARS Family Line (888-554-3277) assists families by providing community resources and referrals to many services including food, clothing, housing, medical and behavioral health care, parenting education, and child care.

• Family Opportunity Centers & Family Resource Centers provide families with access to the programs and resources they need to build protective factors and help their children grow into healthy and productive members of their communities.

• In New York City, there are Family Enrichment Centers, family-centered, community-designed supports in home-like spaces where neighbors can connect, contribute to their community, find resources, support one another, and build strategies that help families thrive.

• Healthy Families New York is a voluntary home visiting model aimed at offering support to families starting from prenatal stages or at birth and continuing through to the age of five.

OCFS also provides free 24/7 online Mandated Reporter Training in Child Abuse and Neglect/Maltreatment Identification that has been updated to include implicit bias training and content on the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on children and families.

The district’s School Health Services program supports your student’s academic success by promoting health in the school setting. One way that we provide care for your student is by performing the health screenings as mandated by the State of New York.Throughout the school year mandatory New York State health screenings will be conducted in the health offices for new entrants and students in following grades: UPK, Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, and 11th. Required screenings are grade specific and may include: vision, hearing, and scoliosis screenings. A letter will be sent home if your student requires follow-up with your healthcare provider. For vision screenings only, parents will be notified of all results. Please call the Health Office if you have questions or concerns.

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. Best wishes for a joyful and healthy holiday season filled with peace, love, and special moments together!

Bethany R. Moore, RN BSN

High School Nurse

Nurse Coordinator

315-589-9625

bmoore@williamsoncentral.org

315-410-5470 (fax)

Nick Weis, RN BSN

Middle School Nurse

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

Spring sports are officially underway across all levels here in Williamson! Our varsity and JV teams have kicked off their seasons, and we’re excited to see our student-athletes back in action.

Unfortunately, as is often the case in upstate New York, the weather hasn’t exactly cooperated. Several games and meets have been postponed, but we are working to reschedule them for after Spring Break.

Thank you all for your continued patience and flexibility as we navigate practice schedules. With the high school gym currently under renovation, coaches have been working hard to share time between the elementary and middle school gyms. Coordinating practices for all spring teams has been a challenge, and your understanding is greatly appreciated.

On a bright note, some of our teams are sporting new uniforms this season! I’ve been reviewing inventory with coaches and will be developing a rotating uniform purchasing schedule that is fair and consistent across all teams and levels.

Additionally, I’ve had some very productive meetings with the Town Park and the Williamson Recreation Department. We’re actively working together to create more athletic opportunities and increase student participation throughout the community.

This first month as Athletic Director has been a whirlwind—in the best way. I’m grateful for the support and incredibly proud to serve the Williamson community. If you ever have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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)

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Hello Williamson Students and Families!

I am the Director of Food Service for Williamson Central School District, a role I have been proudly serving in since 2021. Beginning July 2024, I began operating as the Food Service Director for Marion Central School District, and the Boces Wayne Technical and Career Center. The completion of the Elementary School Capital Project Kitchen Renovation was my first experience navigating a total kitchen renovation. This school year has brought some new challenges with much growth happening. I am so proud of the team I lead here in Williamson. I would like to say THANK YOU to each and every one of them. They work very hard each day to support our students and provide nutritious meals. We take so much pride in the work we do, and students are at the forefront of every thought and decision we make.

STUDENT MEALS

Student Meals will continue to be free for the rest of this school year, thanks to district participation in Community Eligibility Provision, CEP. The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) allows eligible schools to serve free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of income. CEP has been shown to increase participation in school meals, and supports a whole child approach to learning. To see more information about CEP and how school meals are funded click on the link below. https://bestpractices.nokidhungry.org/sites/default/files/media/How%2520School%2520Meals%2520Reach%2520Kids_21-22.pdf

New York Schools typically operate from a separate school food service fund, not the general fund, and are primarily funded through federal reimbursements and student payments, with some state matching funds.

Separate Fund/School Lunch Fund:

The school nutrition department has its own budget and fund, distinct from the school district's general fund or education budget.

Funding Sources:

• Federal Reimbursements: The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) are federally funded, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) providing reimbursements to participating schools.
• Student Payments: In a typical school year (NON CEP) Schools charge students who do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals the full price of meals, and students eligible for reduced-price meals pay a co-payment.
• State Funding: States provide matching funds, which can vary in form, ranging from per-meal reimbursements to salary support to general funding for operations.

SCHOOL MENUS. Menus are always posted on our school website, under Lunch Menus. Menus are subject to change. We will do our best to communicate with students and families ahead of time if that happens.

FOOD ALLERGIES. Please notify us if your child has a Food Allergy or Intolerance. Email Tina VanStrien at tvanstrien@williamsoncentral.org.

Please contact Tina VanStrien via Email at tvanstrien@williamsoncentral.org or 315-589-9621.

April 22, 2025, is School Bus Driver/Monitor Appreciation Day!

Make sure you take a minute and thank your drivers and monitors

This school year has proven to be challenging. We have been dealing with staffing shortages since the start of the school year. I am so proud of the Transportation team. Luckily, here at Williamson we have amazing full-time staff and reliable substitutes who all have a hand in making this Department run. Thank you to my staff for being hardworking, flexible and dedicated. You work very hard every day to ensure that our students are transported safely to school. We take pride in the work that we do every day, all day!

I would also like to thank the students and their families for being patient with us, as we navigate through the difficulty of being short-staffed. On occasion, it is necessary to make last minute changes to bus routes, the responses we receive from our families and students has been nothing short of understanding. Thank You!!!

From NYAPT (New York Association for Pupil Transportation)

Operation Safe Stop - April 24, 2025

You might ask, “What is Operation Safe Stop?” During “Safe Stop” police officers are in marked and unmarked patrol units and stake out selected bus routes that have a history of illegal passing complaints. Police issue tickets to drivers who pass stopped school buses. First Offense: fine of $250 to $400, 5 points on your license and jail time up to 30 days. Second Offense (within 3 years): fine of $600 to $750. Jail time up to 180 days. Third Offense (within 3 years): fine of $1500.00!!!! It’s just not worth it…Don’t do it!

Media Release from NYAPT

“NYAPT Reminds Drivers to Always Stop for Stopped School Buses to Keep our Students Safe. The New York Association for Pupil Transportation (NYAPT), a statewide organization dedicated to the support, development, and representation of professionals responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of our school children, is supporting Operation Safe Stop Day – an annual event to promote school bus safety and educate the public about the dangers of illegally passing a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing. This year’s Operation Safe Stop takes place this Thursday, April 24, and is a cooperative project supported by NYAPT along with the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, the New York State Education Department, the New York State School Bus Contractors Association, the student transportation industry and state, county, city, and local law enforcement agencies.

According to NYAPT’s own statewide surveys, an estimated 50,000 drivers in New York illegally pass stopped school buses every day school is in session, endangering students and putting their lives at risk. During Operation Safe Stop Day law enforcement throughout New York state will be following school buses and issuing tickets to drivers who illegally pass them. “Keeping children safe when they take that school bus to and from school each day is our top priority and we urge drivers to do their part to keep our students safe,” said NYAPT President and Transportation Director at Coxsackie-Athens School District, Ted Nugent. “We ask the public to avoid all distractions while driving, to be aware of school buses that are on our roadways, and to always stop when they see those red lights flashing on a school bus. Student lives depend on all drivers following the law.”

New York State Vehicle and Traffic law requires all vehicles to come to a full stop when approaching a school bus stopped with red lights flashing. Those lights indicate that a child is either boarding or disembarking a school bus. New York State law prohibits the passing of a school bus that is stopped with red lights flashing regardless of your direction of travel, or even if there is a multi-lane or divided highway. Albany County Sheriff Craig D. Apple Sr. added, “We need to continue to work hard on protecting not only our most valuable but our most vulnerable resource and that’s our school age children. Young kids have many worries regarding school, and traveling safely to school shouldn’t be one of them. So please slow down and watch for school buses either stopping or about to stop. Don’t be one of the 50,000 who illegally pass stopped school buses daily in New York.“

NYAPT states that the 2.3 million children who ride school buses in New York State are driven by qualified and well-trained school bus drivers on routes carefully planned for safety, that buses are maintained at the highest of safety standards, and that school transportation officials are doing their best to keep students safe when they are on or near a school bus. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, students are 70 times safer riding a school bus to school versus a private car.”

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.

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

• The Board of Education adopted the 2025-26 Instructional Calendar during a Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on February 12. The 2025-26 calendar will also be available on the district website soon.
• The 2025-26 calendar factors in WFL BOCES programming calendar and meets contractual obligations for our instructional, operational and administrative units.
• Please Note: The first day of school for WCS students in the 2025-26 school year is Thursday, September 4, 2025.

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.

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