The Lion's Pen Bi-Weekly Newsletter
August 2026
William P. Bohen, Ph.D.
Principal
We have had a great first few weeks of school at Maple East! Students have settled in nicely to our school routines. Below you will find a few updates from school this week:
Communication Update
Thank you so much for your patience and flexibility as we continue transitioning from ClassDojo to WITS mail for communication. As shared at the start of the school year, please use WITS mail to message your child’s teacher for all routine communications.
Here are a few quick tips for staying connected on WITS:
Calendar & Photos: The WITS home page features our up-to-date calendar of events alongside photos from recent school activities.
Classroom Updates: Teachers are also using Padlet to share pictures and highlights directly from their classrooms.
We realize that shifting to a new system is a big change, and we deeply appreciate your understanding. As noted earlier this year, our District is actively exploring long-term alternative communication platforms that support strong home-school connections while fully complying with NY Ed Law 2-D privacy regulations. I will keep you updated as this process continues. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Air Conditioning Project
As shared in the Lion's Pen in August, please note that your child's class will be relocated for two consecutive days to an alternate classroom for work to proceed on our school's Air Conditioning project. Relocations will occur between early October and early December. We will make sure that your child has access to all of their supplies and materials.
Ice Cream Social and Book Fair
Our annual Ice Cream Social and Book Fair will be this coming Friday, September 25. The Ice Cream Social will run from 6-8 in the Cafeteria, while the Book Fair will run from 4-8 in the Gym. We hope to see you there!
District Family Math Website
Are you interested in supporting your child with math development at home? The District has created a family friendly math website with many resources for you to be able to do this. Feel free to check it out at the following link: https://sites.google.com/williamsvillek12.org/family-math-games/home
Book Vending Machine
We are excited to add our new Book Vending Machine to the list of positive rewards our students can earn throughout the school year. All students will have the opportunity to earn a token for the Book Vending Machine during the school year for demonstrating positive behaviors in class.
Literacy/ Social Emotional Learning Theme
All students will be reading the "What You Do Matters" series by Kobe Yamada in class this school year. This boxed set consists of three books:
- What Do You Do With An Idea?
- What Do You Do With A Problem?
- What Do You Do With A Chance?
The books teach children how to embrace bold new ideas, face challenges with courage, and embrace new opportunities. Our teachers will be discussing these themes with students in class throughout the school year.
No School
As a reminder, there will be no school this coming Monday, September 21 in observance of Yom Kippur.
Emergency Dismissal Drill
Friday, October 2 will be our annual Early Dismissal Drill. Students will be dismissed 15 minutes early.
Picture Day
Picture Day will be held this year on Wednesday, October 7.
Halloween
Our students start thinking about Halloween early! Students are allowed to wear a costume at Maple East this year on Friday, October 30, as long as it is consistent with our Halloween guidelines (see below):
- Costumes should be comfortable to wear the entire day. Students must come to school wearing their costume and wear their costume all day. Adults will not be available to assist students changing into/ out of their costume.
- Masks covering a child’s face are not allowed.
- No toy swords, guns, or weapons.
- Costumes must be school appropriate – no reference to drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or inappropriate language.
- Costumes should not obstruct others’ view of the board or teacher in classroom.
- Costumes should not be disruptive to classroom instruction.
- A student should be able to safely travel throughout the building in his/ her costume.
- If you are unsure if your child’s costume is school appropriate or if you have any questions, please ask your child’s teacher.
Kristy Giardina, Assistant Principal
Welcome back! I am looking forward to seeing everyone in the coming weeks ahead. Today, I would like to take the opportunity to review with you the procedures of parent drop off/ pick up at dismissal:
Morning Drop Off:
If you will be bringing your child to school in the morning, versus sending them on the bus, please know we have specific procedures in place to make this as smooth and safe as possible.
When you pull into the side parking lot at Maple East, you will see a traffic pattern set up by cones. You will want to pull up as far to the front as possible, and only the students should exit the car on the passenger side. We will have staff members stationed throughout the walkway and inside the building that can help guide your child.
If you prefer to walk your child to the door, or help them out of the car, please park in the parking lot, and we welcome you to do so! All students will walk to the front entrance to enter the building.
You can begin dropping your child off at 7:50am and we will be stationed outside until 8:15am. Thank you for following these procedures as it helps to control the traffic as well as get everyone where they need to be in the morning!
Afternoon Parent Pick Up:
If your child is a parent pick up every day, or on a consistent schedule (i.e Tuesdays and Thursdays) and will not be taking the bus, please ensure that your child’s teacher is aware by sending in a one time note stating this. Please give this note to your teacher at Supply drop off. This will help us to be prepared for the first few days.
Going forward, if your child will be picked up any day during the school year, just on that day, please also be sure you send a note to your child’s teacher on that day with the date of pick up listed.
When picking up your child you will park in the side parking lot and line up at the appropriate door corresponding to your child’s last name.
Cafeteria door #14: New pickup location for student last names ending in A-L
Loading dock door #13: New pickup location for student last names ending in M-Z
If your child is a consistent pick up, you will be given a sign to utilize when picking your child up, and your child will have a corresponding number attached to their backpack (This will come home with your child the first week of school.) While you wait for these to come home, please be prepared to show ID.
If you are picking your child up and are not on a consistent schedule, you will just come to the corresponding door to pick them up and please be prepared to show ID.
Please remember that we do not begin dismissing students until 2:20.
Thank you so much for your flexibility and cooperation as we safely dismiss all students!
Afternoon Dismissal:
Special After School Transportation to an Alternate Address (Neighbor / Sitter / Grandparent):
If a student is going to a different location after school other than their home, such as a neighbor, sitter or grandparent's home, a Special Transportation Form needs to be completed online and will automatically be sent to the Transportation Department. (Click here for transportation form) *The location of the neighbor, sitter or grandparent's home must be within the Maple East attendance area.
This bus will be your child's only afternoon bus assignment.
Special After School Transportation to an Alternate Address (Licensed Day Care):
If a student is going to a licensed day care after school (not in-house Just For Kids), a Special Transportation Form needs to be completed and sent to the Transportation Department (Click here for transportation form). (exception: Little Red School House)
If the location of the licensed day care is within the Maple East attendance area, the student will not have to take a transfer bus to Mill Middle. A bus from Maple East will take them directly to the licensed day care facility.
If the location of the licensed day care is outside the Maple East attendance area but in the Williamsville School District area, the student will take a transfer bus from Maple East to Mill Middle where they will transfer to the bus that will transport them to the licensed day care facility.
This bus will be your child's only afternoon bus assignment.
Please review your family's situation carefully and advise the school according to the directions above should any special circumstances apply. The main office can also assist you if you have questions. They can be reached at 626-8800.
Last year, New York State passed legislation that prohibits the use of internet enabled devices in schools. Policy #7316 was adopted during the July 1, 2025 Board of Education Meeting and goes into effect on September 1, 2025. What this means at the Elementary Level is Devices (Including Cell Phones and Smart Watches) must be stored in students’ homeroom in a teacher-designated storage system, turned off, from the time they enter the building at the start of the school day until they exit the building at the end of the school day. There are some Methods of Communication for Parents to Contact their Child During the School Day
- Parents may call the main office to leave a message for their child. In addition, students may use the school’s phone in the office (or classroom, when available and appropriate) to call their parent/guardian.
- Where age appropriate, parents may also WITS mail their own child
We appreciate your cooperation as we establish these new rules and routines in the building. For more information on the District policies, please visit the following website.
https://www.williamsvillek12.org/about-us/district-profile/cell-phone-policy
BEGINNING OF YEAR REMINDERS
Reminder for Pick Up
Please remember to always have ID when coming into school as you may be required to provide it when picking up your child.
Visitor Sign In Procedure
Our District utilizes the Raptor System for visitors coming into the building. With this procedure, you will need to provide photo ID that will be scanned into the system for security purposes. Once you are scanned the first time, subsequent visits will only require us to sign you in with your last name. Your name remains in the system from year to year.
Attendance Reminder
If your child will be out sick, please be sure to contact the Attendance Office via WITS Mail or by calling 716-626-8800/option 1.
Dismissal Reminder
If there is any change to your child’s regular dismissal routine, please call the MAIN OFFICE at (716) 626-8801 as teachers may not always get the message in time for dismissal.
Parking Lot Reminders
Just a reminder that cars are NOT allowed in the Bus Loop in the morning to drop off students. Please remember there is no entering the Bus Loop BEFORE 8:30am or AFTER 1:30pm. Cars are also NOT allowed in the Handicapped section of the parking lot unless you have the proper parking tag. When parking there, be sure to have your tag displayed in clear view if you’re using those spots.
Health Office Message
Joelle McCormack, RN, School Nurse
Just a reminder for the 26-27 school year
If your child needs an emergency medication( EPI, INHALER) to be kept in the health office please drop off during school hours. A current doctor order is needed at the time of drop off. Thank you.
Please consider sending in extra clothes with your child to store in their cubby, the health office has a limited supply.
Getting back to school. Some tips on distinguishing between cold and flu season vs allergies
Allergies:
A change of season may trigger some seasonal allergies. Allergy symptoms include:
Sneezing
congestion
runny nose
Itchy eyes
Clear nasal drainage
Fever free
These are some ways the body can respond to allergens in the air
Seasonal allergy symptoms can come on suddenly and last awhile.
Colds:
Runny nose or stuffy nose
Cough
Sneezing
Sore throat
Watery eyes
Occasional fever
Cold symptoms are contagious and usually peak in 2-3 day
Good hand washing is encouraged.
Influenza “the Flu” has been confirmed in your child’s school. Influenza is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness. Most cases will resolve on their own within seven to ten days, but some cases may require hospitalization.
Common symptoms one to four days following exposure to Influenza may include:
- fever or feeling feverish/chills
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headache
- fatigue
- some may experience vomiting and diarrhea
Children experiencing the following symptoms require immediate medical attention:
- fast breathing or trouble breathing
- bluish skin color
- not drinking enough fluids
- very sleepy or lethargic
If your child develops the above symptoms, please do not send your child to school. Instead, please contact your child’s health care provider and mention that Influenza is in the class, for a prompt and proper diagnosis and treatment. Young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart and lung disease, asthma or diabetes are at higher risk for a more severe illness and complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, and dehydration. A child with Influenza may return to school 24 hours after the child’s last fever and when the child is well enough to learn.
The best way to prevent the spread of Influenza is to get a flu vaccine each year, wash your hands frequently with warm soap and water, refrain from putting your hands to your face and mouth, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school nurse or your child’s health care provider. For additional information, please visit the NYS Department of Health website at https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/fact_sheet.htm
Nichole Klapman
Julie Schaefer
Eileen Theuerkauf, Technology Coach
Katie McFarland, Technology Facilitator
Start of the School Year
Helping Your Child Settle Into the School Year
Can you believe we are already in our third week of school? The first days are filled with excitement, new experiences, and lots of energy. By week three, however, some children may be starting to feel the transition a little more. The newness has worn off, routines are becoming more demanding, and tiredness may begin to show.
This is a normal part of settling into a new school year. As parents and caregivers, there are many simple ways we can help our children feel secure, confident, and ready for each school day.
Keep Routines Consistent
Children thrive when they know what to expect. Try to keep morning, bedtime, and after-school routines as predictable as possible. Even small routines—such as packing backpacks together or choosing clothes the night before—can help mornings feel calmer.
Prioritize Sleep
A full day of learning and playing takes a lot of energy! A consistent bedtime and calming bedtime routine can help children get the rest they need. If your child seems extra tired or emotional, consider whether they may simply need a little more downtime and sleep.
Make Mornings Positive
Try to leave enough time in the morning so your child doesn't feel rushed. A calm goodbye can make a big difference. A simple, confident message such as, “Have a great day! I'll see you after school,” can help children feel reassured.
Check In—Without Interrogating
Instead of asking, “How was school?” and getting the familiar “Fine,” try asking specific questions:
What made you smile today?
What was something new you learned?
Who did you play with today?
Was anything tricky today?
What are you looking forward to tomorrow?
These questions can open the door to meaningful conversations without putting pressure on your child.
Expect Some Big Feelings
Your child may come home happy one day and frustrated or tearful the next. This doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong at school. Children often hold it together throughout the day and release their emotions once they are home in a safe and comfortable environment.
Try to listen, validate their feelings, and give them time to decompress before jumping into problem-solving.
Build in Time to Unwind
After a busy school day, children may benefit from some unstructured time. Playing outside, reading, drawing, listening to music, or simply relaxing can give their brains a chance to recharge.
Encourage Independence
The beginning of the year is a wonderful time for children to practice doing things for themselves. Encourage your child to take responsibility for age-appropriate tasks such as organizing their backpack, putting away belongings, or getting ready for the next day.
Small successes build confidence!
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Learning new routines takes time. If your child forgets something, has a difficult morning, or struggles with a new expectation, remind them that mistakes are opportunities to learn.
A simple “You're still learning, and that's okay” can go a long way.
Most Importantly, Stay Connected
Your child doesn't need you to have all the answers. They need to know that you are there to listen, support them, and help them navigate the ups and downs of a new school year.
At Maple East, we are excited about the year ahead and are grateful to partner with our families as our students learn, grow, and find their rhythm! Here's to a happy, healthy, and successful school year!
Andrea Armstrong
Wellness Facilitator
DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion)
Coming soon!
SDM (Shared Decision Making) Committees Update:
Coming soon!
Maple East PTA Update
Maple East PTA Update – September 18, 2026
Become a member - www.mapleeastpta.com
@maple.east.pta
Maple East PTA
Upcoming Events
-September 25
● FREE PTA Ice Cream Social - 6-8pm - Cafeteria
● PTA Book Fair - 4-8pm - Gymnasium
-October 23 - PTA Fall Fun Night - 6-8:30pm
-November 7 - School Pictures
-November 13 - FREE PTA Ice Skating at Northtown Center - 4-7pm
-November 18 - General PTA Meeting @6:30pm *gift card giveaway!*
Call to Action
Please become a member (annual registration required) - dues support the many PTA
events that bring everyone together as a community and all the enrichment activities
supported by the PTA. In addition, you can vote on important PTA matters and have
your voice heard. No volunteering required (but highly welcomed!).
Thank You!
Chalk the Walk and Popsicles on the Playground - thank you to all the parents for
coming out; what a great start to the year!
Wednesday was our first General PTA Meeting for 2026-2027. PTA presented the
annual budget for the year and was voted on by the membership, which passed. This
is important so that all the fun events, assemblies, and field trips can be supported this
year. We heard from our various committees, our Board of Education representative to
the Maple East PTA, and from Dr. Bohen and Ms. Giardina. Special shout out to Mrs.
Goubski for being our PTA Teach Liaison. Thank you for coming and supporting the
PTA!
Thank you to all those that have reached out to volunteer for PTA committees this
year. Giving your time and energy to the PTA is the only way we succeed.
Want to be more involved in our Maple East Community?
Now that you’ve made it through the first two weeks of school (you did it!) and
experienced a little of what the PTA does, do you want to be more involved and meet
some great people? We have opportunities big and small. Reach out to Megan at
Open positions
Boosterthon - 3rd Committee Member
Spirit Wear Chairperson
Bike Rodeo Committee - 2 committee members
Fourth Grade Activities - 1 or 2 chairs and 3-5 committee members
Fourth Grade Reception - 1 or 2 chairs
Spring Fun Run - 2nd co-chair
Heritage Night - Committee members - the more the merrier!
Bus Driver Appreciation - 2nd Co-chair
Fiduciary Committee - 2 additional people - monthly reconciliations
Kindergarten Celebration - 1 or 2 chairs
Spring Teacher Recognition - 1 additional chair
Have a great weekend!
-Your friendly neighborhood Maple East PTA
Have a great weekend!
Maple East PTA
PTA Co Presidents
School Enrollment and Immigration
In 1984, the United States Supreme Court ruled it is unconstitutional to deny undocumented children access to a free, public K-12 education. This ruling is still in place today and is the law. The Williamsville Central School District is committed to ensuring students have equal access to education, regardless of immigration status, national origin, citizenship, or any other protected reason, and strictly complies with the Supreme Court’s decision.
The Williamsville Central School District takes all legally allowable steps to protect students while they are attending school. The school has strict protocols in place for handling requests from immigration officials for (1) information about students; (2) cooperation with immigration enforcement activities; and (3) requests for a student to be released to immigration authorities.
Parents and persons in a parental relationship should make sure the Williamsville Central School District has updated emergency contact information, including a list of all individuals authorized to pick your child up from school, in the event you are unavailable to do so. Please contact the Main Office of your child’s school at the number below to provide any necessary updates:Maple East Elementary 716-626-8801
Maple East Elementary 716-626-8801
Extracurricular Information
Community Education Programs at Maple East, click on link below:
https://www.williamsvillek12.org/departments/community_education/index.php
Important/Save the Dates - (every Friday is Wear Blue Spirit Day!)
Wednesday, September 23 Room Parent Orientation @ 6:30pm
Friday, September 25 Ice Cream Social, 6:00-8:00pm
Scholastic Book Fair, 4:00-8:00pm
Trunk or Treat 10/27
Join us on Tuesday October 27th at Williamsville East's parking lot. This event starts at 4Pm and goes until 6pm. Please bring a canned good for donation! We will have face painting, games, popcorn for sale and CANDY!
Main Office:
William P Bohen, PhD, Principal
Kristy Giardina, Assistant Principal
Laura Mietz, Senior Clerk Typist
Cynthia Carlino, Clerk Typist
Kimberly Beck, Part Time Clerk Typist
Phone: 716-626-8800
Fax: 716-626-8808
Attendance:
Lindsay Pecoraro, Attendance/ Health Office Aide
Phone: 716-626-8800
Health Office:
Joelle McCormack, RN, School Nurse
Phone: 716-626-8810
Fax: 716-626-8831
School Website:
https://mapleeast.williamsvillek12.org/
Address:
1500 Maple Road
Williamsville, NY 14221