GCCSD News and Updates - Nov. 2025

Dear Gates Chili School Community,

As we turn the calendar to November and adjust to the end of daylight saving time, the days may be shorter—but that just means we have more chances to shine a light on the good happening all around us. Whether it’s in our classrooms, on our stages, or across the community, the heart of Gates Chili continues to glow brightly.

This season brings with it important traditions—like honoring our veterans, gathering with loved ones and celebrating the many ways our students and staff make a difference in the Gates Chili community. It’s also a time for planning. This fall, we are launching our long-range planning and optimization study to help shape the next five to 10 years at Gates Chili. In partnership with a trusted team of education experts, we’re engaging students, staff, families and community members in meaningful conversations about how our district can continue to grow in thoughtful, sustainable ways. Whether it’s facilities, programming or student needs, every part of this process is focused on building a strong, vibrant future for all Spartans.

In this issue, you’ll find just a few of the many ways our students are learning, leading and lifting each other up. From schoolwide reading celebrations and leadership initiatives to the upcoming Fall Family Fest and middle school musical, there’s so much to be proud of—and to look forward to.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. This season is a great reminder that even as the days get shorter, we have endless opportunities to brighten the path ahead—together.

Go Spartans!

Christopher J. Dailey

Superintendent of Schools

The Gates Chili school community is made up of more than 3,700 students and 900+ staff members! Get ready to peek into the world of our Spartans in our e-newsletter segment: Ask the Spartans! This month, meet Kaylee M., a fourth-grade student at Neil Armstrong Elementary School. Kaylee loves animals, learning and being an Armstrong Star!

What was your Halloween costume this year?

Kaylee: A cowgirl.

What is your favorite thing that you’ve learned in school so far?

Kaylee: How to multiply by big numbers.

Is your favorite subject math?

Kaylee: Yes!

What other subjects do you like?

Kaylee: Reading and CKLA.

What is your favorite book right now?

Kaylee: Probably “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and “Baby-Sitters Club”.

Are you in any clubs or after school activities?

Kaylee: I’m in fashion club and I am in chorus and band. I play the French horn.

What do you do in fashion club?

Kaylee: Last time we met, we worked on creating mood boards, where we put together all kinds of different outfits.

With Thanksgiving coming up, can you share something you are thankful for?

Kaylee: My dad, and my new puppy!

What is your new puppy’s name?

Kaylee: Shadow. And I have a cat named Genesis.

Can you share what you like about being an Armstrong Star?

Kaylee: All the different things. I like all the different subjects and specials, especially library, music and art.

The Gates Chili Food Pantry, in partnership with Gates Chili Community Connections, provides essential support for Gates Chili students and families.

The pantry is open on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 3-4 p.m. at the Gates Chili Operations Building (3 Spartan Way, Door #5 – near Spartan Stadium).

Available items often include non-perishable goods, refrigerated and frozen foods, birthday boxes, and occasionally personal care or cleaning supplies.

The pantry will be open this Wednesday, Nov. 5. Families in need are encouraged to stop by during open hours — no appointment necessary!

St. Theodore’s Church Food Cupboard in Gates

168 Spencerport Road Rochester, NY 14606 429-5360

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Area Served: 14606 and 14624.

Grace Covenant Food Closet in Chili

224 Chestnut Ridge Road Rochester, NY 14624 889-2130

Hours: Open every Thursday, by appointment; people may come 1x per month.

Area Served: 14624

Over the last several years, our district has worked diligently to plan for the future in ways that best support students and staff. Recently, several factors have come together that require a more thorough look at the district, so we are well positioned to sustain strong support for years to come.

Planning now helps us prepare thoughtfully. That’s why we are launching a long-range planning and optimization study. The goal is to position Gates Chili for the next five to 10 years by aligning facilities, programming and operations with projected student and community needs, and by generating data-informed considerations for the Board of Education and our community.

We are partnering with Leadership Solutions Advisers (LSA) to facilitate the process. Their team of longtime educators will lead engagement activities, gather and synthesize feedback and data, and support an advisory committee that will review findings and help shape recommendations. Every conversation will connect to educational experiences, organizational capacity and financial sustainability.

As we begin this work, we want to center the voices of students and families. The first opportunity for YOU, our community, to share your voice is by participating in a ThoughtExchange. Click here or the button below to share your thoughts now. This ThoughtExchange will be open through Monday, Nov. 17.

As shared via ParentSquare last month, LSA will also be holding focus groups (with the first one coming up in the next week). If you are interested in participating in a focus group, please click here or the button below by Thursday, Nov. 6 at 9 p.m. to indicate your availability. Please note this is only an interest form. We will use responses to build balanced groups across roles and buildings. There are limited slots available, so please don’t delay. Additionally, please note students will have a dedicated opportunity to participate in focus groups during their school day.

We are looking forward to engaging with you throughout this process.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support of our school district.

Grades 8-10 students and their families are invited to discover the world of career and technical education during CTE EXPO Night on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the WEMOCO Career and Technical Education Center (3589 Big Ridge Road in Spencerport).

During this interactive evening, visitors can:

• Explore all CTE classrooms and labs including both Locally Approved Courses (Foundations and Introduction) and NYSED Approved Programs
• Experience demonstrations of in-demand skills used in fields such as health care, construction, manufacturing, information technology and more
• Expand their understanding of future career and college opportunities by meeting CTE teachers, students and industry professionals

CTE staff and program representatives will be available to answer questions and share insights about each program. Families are strongly encouraged to participate, as CTE EXPO Night is the only opportunity for adults to visit WEMOCO before future student enrollment.

Most CTE programs are designed for students in grades 11 and 12, with registration handled through each student’s home high school counseling office.

Click here for a full list of BOCES 2 Career and Technical Education programs and learn how CTE helps students turn passion into profession.

Get Ready for Fall Family Fest: Harvesting Health and Wellness!

Mark your calendars for an evening of fun and community spirit! Join us Thursday, Nov. 6, from 5–7 p.m. in the Spartan Field House at Gates Chili High School, 1 Spartan Way.

This family-friendly event will feature games, live performances, community resources, our annual coat drive, and much more — including flu vaccines!

Flu Vaccinations

• Flu shots will be available from 5–7 p.m. for individuals ages 4 and older. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.
• To schedule, call (716) 805-1020 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Most insurance plans are accepted; please bring your insurance card.
• For those without insurance, the cost is $45 per person.
• Questions? Email info@INCnursing.com.

We can’t wait to come together for an evening of connection, celebration, and community care. See you there!

Gates Chili Middle School is getting ready to spread holiday cheer with the production of “Elf Jr.” Nov. 20-21 at 7 p.m. in the Gates Chili Performing Arts Center (GCPAC).

Inspired by the beloved holiday film from New Line Cinema, “Elf Jr.” features songs by Tony Award-nominees, Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, with a book by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin.

This heartwarming comedy follows Buddy the Elf on his journey to uncover his true identity. When Buddy the Elf discovers he’s human, he journeys from the North Pole to New York City in search of his father. Along the way, he spreads holiday cheer and helps the city and his new family rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.

This performance will be sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

Click on the links below to learn more about this month's awareness and heritage months:

National Native American Heritage Month

Nov. 5: MS Picture Make-up Day

Nov. 5: HS Fall Choral Concert, 7 p.m., GCPAC

Nov. 6: Fall Family Fest, 5-7 p.m., Spartan Field House at GCHS

Nov. 6: HS National Honor Society Ceremony, 6:30 p.m., GCPAC

Nov. 7: MS Grade 6 Social, 7 p.m., MS Gymnasium

Nov. 10: FB Picture Make-up Day

Nov. 11: Veterans Day – District Closed

Nov. 18: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., GCPLC

Nov. 19: HS Skills Trade Day

Nov. 20-21: MS Musical: "Elf Jr.", 7 p.m., GCPAC

Nov. 21: GC Pride Day

Nov. 26-28: Thanksgiving Recess – District Closed

Always be sure to check the district website for the
most up-to-date dates, times and locations for all events.

Looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a difference every day? Consider becoming a Building Substitute at Gates Chili!

Building Substitutes are an essential part of our school community. Assigned to one specific building, they report to the same school each day — providing consistency and support for students and staff alike. When teachers are absent, Building Substitutes step in to keep learning on track. On days without absences, they assist with additional classroom and building needs, ensuring a smooth and successful school day for everyone.

Candidates must have a minimum of two years of college, and while teacher certification is preferred, it’s not required.

This full-time position offers:
✅ A daily rate of $225
✅ Individual health plan eligibility
✅ Retirement system participation

Join a team that values flexibility, reliability, and a passion for helping students succeed!

Gates Chili is seeking qualified candidates for the following positions. Click the button below to apply or share the opportunity with someone you know!

Job ID 1253: Teacher Aide for the 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1257: Substitute Support Staff

Job ID 1258: Substitute Teacher*

Job ID 1327: Secondary Special Education Teacher 15:1

Job ID 1333: FACS Teacher

Job ID 1336: LTS-Special Education

Job ID 1338: Registered Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse

Job ID 1339: Earth Science Teacher

Job ID 1340: AIS/Reading Teacher-LTS

Job ID 1341: Building Substitute Teacher

Job ID 1343: Spring – Boys Modified Baseball Head Coach

Job ID 789: Lifeguard

Job ID 1251: Bus Attendant for the 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1252: Bus Driver for the 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1254: Cleaner for the 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1255: Security Worker 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1256: Food Service Helper for the 2025-26 school year

Job ID 1331: Maintenance Mechanic II – HVAC Experience Preferred

Job ID 1332: Office Account Clerk - Civil Service Competitive Title

Job ID 1334: School Aide: Cafeteria Monitor – PT

Job ID 1337: School Aide – Health Office

Job ID 1342: Senior Network Technician (Civil Service Competitive Position)

*The Gates Chili Board of Education approved new,