AP Highlights

AMS FEATURED ON WNYT: FOCUS ON STUDENT LEARNING

Principal Robert Messia was interviewed by WNYT Channel 13 about AMS and the implementation of the new cell phone ban. The story will air Thursday, September 4. Be sure to tune in to see how AMS is creating a focused, distraction-free learning environment for students.

FALL SPORTS IN FULL SWING

Fall athletics have started and our student-athletes are ready to compete! Coming off AP's first football sectional title in school history, the team was featured as part of their Champions of the Week segment. The story was featured on WNYT news channel 13, showcasing the team’s standout performance and commitment to excellence. We encourage families, friends and community members to come out and show their AP pride all season long. Game schedules can be found on the athletics homepage, so you don’t miss a moment of the action.

MICHAEL STEAD NAMED PRINCIPAL OF MILLER HILL–SAND LAKE BEGINNING JANUARY 2026

Averill Park Central School District is pleased to announce that Michael Stead has been appointed as the next principal of MHSL. Mr. Stead will officially begin his role in January 2026. Until then, the building will continue under the leadership of Denis Sibson, who will be retiring after years of dedicated service to our students, staff, and families. We thank Mr. Sibson for his commitment and wish him the very best in retirement, while also welcoming Mr. Stead to the AP community.

EVERY STUDENT EVERY DAY PODCAST RETURNS WITH SEASON 6 PREMIERE

Dr. Franchini kicks off its sixth season of the Every Student Every Day Podcast by talking with Principals Rob Messia and Heath Quiles about the new distraction-free schools initiative. Listen in to hear how schools are preparing and what families can expect on day one. Find us wherever you listen to podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Just search for “Every Student Every Day”.

CELEBRATING OUR SUMMER GRADUATE

Congratulations to Devin Harrington-Dus, who graduated today from Averill Park High School as an August 2025 graduate! Devin received his diploma from Superintendent Dr. James Franchini and was warmly congratulated by the high school administration and staff. We wish Devin continued success in all of his future endeavors and celebrate this exciting milestone in his academic journey.

FRESH OFF THE PRESS: COMMUNITY EDUCATION OFFERINGS FALL BROCHURE

The Averill Park Central School District Community Education brochure has been mailed to households, and registration for fall classes is now open! A wide variety of programs are available for all ages and interests. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn something new, meet others in our community, and have fun. Some classes do require a registration fee, but there are many informative classes that are offered for free! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn something new, meet others in our community, and have fun.

ORDER YOUR AVERILL PARK T-SHIRTS - SUPPORT MHSL PLAYGROUND FUNDRAISER

Show your school spirit and support a great cause! Order your new Averill Park t-shirts today and help raise funds for a new playground at Miller Hill–Sand Lake Elementary School. All proceeds will go directly to the project. Shirts will arrive in time to wear at the MHSL Boosterthon Fundraiser on October 1.

Order Deadline is Friday, September 5

Friends of Miller Hill Playground Shop

WELCOMING AVERILL PARK’S NEWEST FACULTY & STAFF

Averill Park CSD proudly welcomed our newest employees during New Teacher Orientation from August 26 to August 28. New teachers participated in orientation to prepare for the school year, while many non-instructional staff joined across a variety of roles. Together, they bring fresh energy, talent, and dedication to supporting our students. We’re excited to have them as part of the Averill Park community and look forward to the great work ahead.

HELPING STUDENTS NAVIGATE BACK TO SCHOOL ANXIETY

As the 2025–26 school year begins, it’s normal for students to feel anxious after the summer break. Children may worry about new teachers, schedules, friends, or academic challenges. Signs of anxiety can include reluctance to go to school, physical complaints, behavior changes, sleep problems, or seeking extra reassurance.

Families can help by encouraging open conversations, gradually re-establishing routines, focusing on positive aspects of school, visiting the school beforehand, staying calm and confident, and keeping communication open with teachers and staff. If anxiety is affecting daily life, our school counselors are available for support. Our goal is to ensure all students transition back to school positively and successfully. For questions or concerns, please contact your building principal.

Additional Resources:

· The Child Mind Institute

· ADAA: 7 Tips for Addressing Back-to-School Anxiety

· YoungMinds