District Update
January 2025

A Message from Dr. Z.
ACCOLADES
National Merit Scholar Finalist Awarded
Of the approximately 1.6 million students eligible for the National Merit Scholarship, less than 1% make it to the finalist stage.
Congratulations to Ben Feit, who has earned the prestigious distinction of being named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist, by demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, dedication, and intellect.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most competitive academic recognitions in the country, with only a small percentage of students reaching this finalist stage. This achievement is a testament to Ben’s hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.
Ben’s success is not his alone—it is also a reflection of the support and encouragement he has received from his family. I’d like to acknowledge his parents, Neil Feit and Julia Wilson, for the role they have played in fostering his love of learning and intellectual curiosity.
I am privileged to present this certificate recognizing Ben Feit as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist on behalf of Fredonia High School. Congratulations, Ben! We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to all the great things you will accomplish in the future!
(Story courtesy of Darrin Paschke. Photo courtesy of Braden Carmen, Observer)
Students Awarded for Artistic Interpretations
A trio of Fredonia high school students received awards for their entries into a contest, sponsored by SUNY Fredonia, that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.. Senior Erin Taverna, and Sophomores Caitlyn Molina, and Nella Darrell-Sterbak were honored at Rosch Recital Hall at SUNY Fredonia on Friday, January 31st for their artistic interpretation of this year's theme of "Freedom in Education".
Coach Bertrando Adds 100th Win Of Coaching Career
BUILDING UPDATES
WHEELOCK EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
This Doctor Makes House (Room) Calls!
Dr. Cory Gotowka made a recent visit to Mrs. Kaminski's room. He is a pediatrician at UPMC Hammot in Erie, caring exclusively for children in the hospital. Dr. Cory talked to students about how to stay healthy and showed them how to listen to their heart with a stethoscope.
Everything Is Just Ducky
Monday, January 13th was National Rubber Ducky Day and PreK teacher Mrs. Foley knew just how she wanted to celebrate!
"When I was the runner-up for New York State Teacher of the Year I was given some money. I wanted to do something for Wheelock’s children and staff with part of that money. I decided to buy some Rubber Duckies for all as a reminder that childhood should remain innocent, imaginative, and playful in this fast-moving world."
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
"Let's Go Science Show"
FES third graders attended the "Let's Go Science Show" a fun-filled production that teaches physics concepts through theatrically based experiments and demonstrations.
During the show, Mr. Swart was selected by the presenter to help demonstrate how soundwaves work and Mrs. Alguire's performance was 'electrifying'!
MIDDLE SCHOOL
FBI Visit
FMS held a special presentation for students about the importance of internet safety. FBI Agent Danielle Hockwater discussed online predators & extortion tactics, social media apps & privacy settings, and even shared some real-life cases covered both locally and nationwide.
After the presentation, Hockwater answered questions from students and gave them valuable resources should they need help.
HIGH SCHOOL
Student IT Help Desk
High School students who have an interest in Technology signed up at the beginning of the school year to be a part of this new program. During their study halls, they come down to the IT Office to help with the various projects and initiatives FCSD has based around technology. Some examples of the valuable work they do:
fixing broken devices
helping teachers in their classrooms
helping their fellow students
Creating support tutorials
taking online coursework to learn more about technology (We have partnered with Dell Technologies so the students can learn about fixing Dell devices and eventually earn a certificate towards Dell computer repair.)
These pioneering students will light the way for future students to become a Technology Support hub for future careers and employment skills.
(Story courtesy of Andrew Wheelock.)
Students of the Month
MUSIC
Advanced Music Recital
Advanced Music students recently performed in their first recital of the 2024-25 school year. A replay of the livestream is available at the link found below.
https://www.youtube.com/live/Mgby6WYtPnY
Livestream Concert Replays
Fourth Grade & HS String Concert
Music Department's Livestream Page: https://sites.google.com/a/fcsd.wnyric.org/music/live-stream-links?authuser=0















