RedHawk S.U.N.

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I am filled with excitement for all the possibilities that will unfold this year to learn, grow, and explore. Let’s be curious and determined. There will be great opportunities and challenges to face, but know this: we are on this journey together. And our work continues through a vision that inspires who we are becoming and a mission that drives all we do in NPS.

Our theme for this year is a progression as we move forward to "Be Real. Be Bold. BELONG."

When we support one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and advocate for what is right, we stand together with courage and compassion. At its heart, Nyack Public Schools is about community. In community, we are proof that people from different backgrounds, cultures, languages, identities, and life circumstances can come together to build something greater than ourselves. We see that belonging is not simply a feeling; it is something we create through our actions, our relationships, and the way we care for one another in real time.

This year, we will be launching a strategic planning process for our school district. Be on the lookout for how YOU can be involved in this year’s District Strategic Planning as we shape our future together!

As we welcome each other back in to school, remember:

RedHawks rise together, and together... we belong.

Yours in Education,

Dr. Lizzette Ruiz-Giovinazzi

Superintendent of Schools

Excerpts of Inspiration and Insight from Brianna's Keynote Speech:

"I got the opportunity to learn that my voice is not only a beacon of understanding, but it can also become a catalyst for change (for a world in need of changing)...

Today I will read to you (Amanda Gorman's) poem, The Hill We Climb, which explores the vision of a world where diversity is a strength and understanding is the true antidote to all our problems. Not only did I choose this poem for its amazing vision and message, but I also chose it because it helped me to gain a better appreciation of myself and my culture...

Vision... is not only a great leadership skill, but it is a great skill to have in life when going after what you want. For that justification I ask if teachers can please attempt to set up a vision with the whole class, and then set up individual goals with students so they can feel motivated and inclined to actually pursue a future in education...

Our differences truly are just that, as we are so alike in so many ways that we forget. So with analogy I am always reminded of what, The Hill We Climb, stands for and that we have the opportunity to create the dream world that is hinted at in this poem."

- Brianna P

8th Grade Student at Nyack Middle School and Keynote Speaker

2026 Superintendent's Conference Day in Nyack Public Schools

Building a District Strategic Plan is more than creating a roadmap for the future—it is an opportunity to reflect on who we are as a community and who we aspire to become…

Let’s envision the possibilities together!

The Journey: As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, we are excited to embark on an important journey together. Grounded in a spirit to "Be Real. Be Bold. Belong.", we are launching a comprehensive strategic planning process that invites students, staff, families, and our entire community to help shape the future of our district. We will lead with courage and compassion in a beloved community.

Our Community: In Nyack Public Schools (NPS), we know that meaningful progress begins with authentic connection. To be real means listening to one another's experiences and honoring the diverse perspectives that strengthen our community. To be bold means standing up with each other and standing out with RedHawk pride. To belong means our students, staff, families, neighbors, community members feel seen, heard, and valued as they reflect the future we are building together.

The Big Picture: Outreach and opportunity for all voices across diverse perspectives in our community to be heard will be key to the plan's success. Community members may participate in a variety of ways beyond the Steering Team including: sharing input in facilitated Focus Groups, in specified Advisory Teams for sub groups, a community-wide survey, and World Cafes in English/Spanish/Haitian Creole. It is important that the district casts an inclusive net of engagement to gain the intersectionality of participation that reflects the multicultural values of our families, neighbors, community members, business owners, local leaders, etc.

The End Goal: Together, we will create a District Strategic Plan, building upon existing strengths while identifying the priorities, strategies, and measurable outcomes needed to support every student from PreK-12. Through a collaborative and community-centered planning process, constituents will help shape a shared vision for the future that aligns instructional priorities, organizational systems, resource allocation, and community partnerships around the aspirations for all learners in Nyack Public Schools.

You will be hearing more about a District Strategic Plan Survey that will be shared community-wide, focus groups, and more opportunities to include your voice. Mark your calendar now for our Strategic Planning World Cafe on Thursday, October 29th!

Be connected with our elected officials who serve on the district's Board of Education. The Board of Education encourages community engagement. Our seven trustees are responsible to listen and represent our school community. Board members may be emailed at: BOEmembers@nyackschools.org.

• NEW BOE webpage for information on the district budget, workshop presentations, trustees contact info, and a schedule for BOE meetings and committee meetings.
• Board Docs for BOE meeting agendas, meeting minutes, and important information about BOE discussions and decisions that take place.
• e-Policy Book for BOE policies in Nyack Public Schools.

BOE Meetings are open to the public, posted on the district website and calendar on specified Tuesdays each month. The public is encouraged to join in-person or via Zoom. Links to the webinar meetings are available on the district website homepage calendar at www.nyackschools.org.

Upcoming BOE Meetings: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2026 at 6:30 pm

Designed for promoting Superintendent’s Uplifting News, the RedHawk SUN is focused on what defines and distinguishes Nyack Public Schools’ educational culture, vision, mission, learning and teaching environment, staff and students of our community.