Williamson Central School District

Dear Williamson Families,

As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to thank our entire WCS community for your continued dedication and partnership. Whether you support our students at home, in classrooms, or across our schools each day, your commitment plays a vital role in helping our students feel supported, challenged, and able to thrive.

And while I admit my own sadness over the Buffalo Bills’ loss on 1/17 (I’m still recovering!), I remain inspired by the strength, conviction, and sense of community that the Bills represent. Much like our work in public education, their dedication—both to the team and to the broader community—reminds us of the power of teamwork, resilience, and showing up for something you believe in. Even in setbacks, we celebrate commitment, effort, and the spirit that brings us together.

REMINDER: HALF DAY FOR ALL STUDENTS, JANUARY 30, 2026

On Friday, January 30, the district will operate on a typical half-day schedule, as outlined below:

• Middle School: Dismissal at 11:00 a.m.
• High School: Dismissal at 11:15 a.m.
• Elementary School (including Pre-K): Dismissal at 12:10 p.m.

Please note:

• AM BOCES students will report to WTCC on this date as usual.
• PM BOCES students may also still report to WTCC on this date. Dr. Snyder and Mrs. Northrop will coordinate with our transportation department to ensure access of this programming for our students

The updated 2025–26 calendar reflecting this change is available here. Speaking of calendar:

2026-27 School Calendar Development

We are currently in the process of developing the 2026–27 school calendar and wanted to share an early update as we plan ahead. My goal is to bring a final version of the calendar to the Board of Education for consideration and adoption at the February 11 Board of Education meeting.

While the calendar is still being finalized, there are a few notable items we want to make you aware of early:

• Labor Day falls late in 2026, which means the first day for students will likely be Tuesday, September 8.
• December Break is expected to be shorter than in some previous years.
• Spring Break will likely occur earlier, during the fourth week of March.

These details are still subject to final approval, but wanted to provide you a preview as soon as possible to support planning for families and staff. We anticipate sharing the finalized calendar with the community in early February.

2026-27 Budget Development

Development of the 2026–27 school budget is now underway. Please mark you calendars for these Key Budget Presentation Dates to the Board of Education:

• January 7, 2026: Budget Presentation – Rollover Budget & Budget Drivers

• January 28, 2026: Budget Presentation – Status Update, Preliminary Expenditures, Executive Aid Runs (as available)

• February 11, 2026: Budget Presentation – Preliminary Revenues, Tax Cap (as available)

• March 4, 2026: Budget Presentation – Status Update: Expenditures & Revenues, Closing the Gap, BOE Approval of Propositions & Notice of Annual Meeting

• March 18: Budget Workshop with BOE @4:30 prior to Regular Meeting

• April 8, 2026: Budget Presentation – Status Update

• April 22, 2026: Budget Presentation – BOE Adoption of Budget

• May 6, 2026: Budget Hearing and Meet the Candidate Night (6:30 PM)

• May 19, 2026: Annual Meeting – Uniform Statewide Budget Vote and BOE Election

We will also begin to post 2026-27 Budget materials to our website. We encourage you to stay informed and engaged throughout the process as the district develops the 2026–27 budget.

2025 Capital Improvement Project Update

We would like to share a brief update on the 2025 Capital Improvement Project (CIP) as planning continues. Below are the tentative project milestones currently guiding the design process:

• April 24, 2026 – Schematic Design

• July 17, 2026 – Design Development

• November 18, 2026 – NYS Education Department (SED) submission

As we move through the design phase, user group meetings will be scheduled in the near future to provide opportunities for stakeholder input. These sessions will be more targeted in nature, with a particular focus on High School band and choral instructional spaces, to ensure the design reflects instructional needs.

We appreciate the community’s continued interest and engagement and will share additional updates as the project progresses.

Board of Education Visits Underway

As previously shared with our families, WCS is excited to let our Williamson families know that Board of Education visits are scheduled for the 2025–26 school year. These visits are an opportunity for our Board members to see programs in action, celebrate student learning, and take pride in the incredible work happening across our district.

Board of Education Visit – Middle School

On January 8, 2026, the Middle School welcomed BOE members, who observed classrooms, special areas, and priority district initiatives in action. Highlights noted include:

• Student engagement, voice, and choice

• Standards-based instruction and explicit learning

• Effective classroom management and instructional groupings

• Safe, welcoming, and well-organized learning environments

Board members described the visit as “an absolute delight and a great reminder of why we do what we do.” A huge thank you to the Middle School faculty and staff—and to all WCS educators—for their ongoing dedication and incredible contributions to our students and community!

BOE Visit Schedule

• Elementary School & Transportation Department: Wednesday, February 4 | 8:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

• High School: Tuesday, March 10 | 7:00 – 10:30 a.m.

Hope you will keep reading on... THANK YOU for your partnership with the Williamson Central School District. We appreciate you!

Warmest regards,

E. Bridget Ashton

The home-school partnership is critical to the development of a successful educational experience for students. When we work together, we are able to create a unified support system that enhances student learning and development in numerous and varied ways.

Please feel free to reach out to your child(ren)'s teacher(s) and/or your building leaders by phone or email if you have questions, concerns or "shout outs" about the work happening at WCS. Please be certain to use the chain of contact so that you can receive a timely response from the staff member that is most directly involved in the situation.

Who Should You Contact?

• The WCS Chain of Contact provides you a pathway of contact information regarding instructional and operational areas in the district.

• Note: A partial Directory of phone numbers is also accessible on the district webpage.

Digital Platforms to Support Staying Connected with WCS:

• ParentSquare
• SchoolTool
• Schoology
• WCS Website Note: Both the MS and HS post their daily announcements on their webpages. There are also numerous helpful links there for you.
• District Monthly Newsletter

See link below.

Greetings from the Middle School Principal,

As we look ahead to the winter months, we are excited to share several important updates and highlights from our Middle School. The second semester will officially begin on January 26, and families should be mindful that this transition may include changes to student schedules. We encourage students and families to review schedules carefully and reach out with any questions as we start this next phase of the school year.

At the building level, we remain deeply committed to fostering a culture of caring where every student feels supported, connected, and valued. Our Student Association Club plays a key role in this work, helping to build school spirit and a sense of belonging. Student Association leaders proudly organize our Spirit Weeks and Red Ribbon Week, promoting positive choices, school pride, and community engagement throughout the year.

Student achievement continues to be a central focus of our work. Students will soon participate in the second i-Ready benchmark assessments in both ELA and Math, with a strong emphasis on individual growth. These assessments help inform instruction and ensure we are meeting students where they are while supporting continued progress. Alongside academic growth, we are committed to exposing students to real-world applications of learning that help them see the relevance of their education beyond the classroom.

In support of this goal, our 8th grade students will be traveling to the Wayne Technical Career Center to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Students will explore career pathways in areas such as autobody and cosmetology to name a few, providing valuable exposure to technical skills and future opportunities as they begin to think about life beyond middle school.

In our efforts to build community connections, we took the opportunity to invite local small business owner, Alex Bean to forum. Alex shared his path that led him to start a business, and the skills he looks for when employing young people.

As we move into the second semester, we remain grounded in our PRIDE philosophy—Perseverance, Responsibility, Integrity, Dignity, and Excellence. These core values guide our decisions, our relationships, and our work each day as we continue striving to support the whole child and prepare our students for future success.

As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (315) 589-9665.

Kathryn Taylor

Middle School Principal

See link below.

As we move into the new year, this is a natural time to begin looking ahead. One of my goals for the 2026 school year is to spend more time learning alongside the teams whose work often happens behind the scenes—but has a direct and lasting impact on student opportunities. Each month, Inside the Classroom will spotlight a different area of our district to help families better understand the work that supports student learning, planning, and success.

This month, we are highlighting the work of our school counselors and building administrators as they plan course offerings and student schedules for the upcoming school year. In collaboration with teachers, teams review trends in student enrollment and performance and examine graduation requirements, Regents and pathway options, and available coursework to anticipate student needs and interests across grade levels. This work ensures course offerings are aligned, balanced, and responsive—supporting multiple pathways to graduation and postsecondary readiness.

One example of this work can be seen at the high school, where the counseling team has developed clear, intentional communication to help students and families understand pathway options as students begin their high school experience. You can learn more about Pathways to Graduation HERE.

Much of this work happens months in advance, laying the foundation for smooth scheduling, informed student choice, and strong transitions from one year to the next. Thoughtful planning now helps ensure that students have access to the courses, supports, and opportunities they need to move forward with confidence. I look forward to continuing to highlight the important work happening across our district and appreciate your continued partnership in supporting students as they plan for what comes next.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful start to the new year!

Dear Families,

As we approach the season of annual student reviews, I want to take a moment to share some best practices to help you feel informed, prepared, and confident as a parent partner in this important process. Annual reviews are a valuable opportunity to reflect on your child’s growth, discuss current needs, and plan thoughtfully for the year ahead.

Here are a few ways families can prepare:

1. Reflect on the Year

Take time to think about your child’s progress—academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Consider what has gone well, where challenges remain, and any changes you have noticed at home or in the community.

2. Gather Your Questions and Input

Write down any questions, concerns, or hopes you have for your child’s program. Your insights are essential and help the team better understand your child as a whole learner.

3. Review Current Goals and Services

Review your child’s current IEP, goals, and services. Think about which goals feel meaningful, which may need adjusting, and whether supports are meeting your child’s needs.

4. Talk With Your Child

Many students benefit from being part of the conversation. Ask your child what they feel proud of, what feels hard, and what they would like help with in the coming year. Consider inviting them to participate in their meeting.

5. Share Relevant Updates

Please be prepared to share any important updates, such as medical information, outside evaluations, family changes, or new strategies that have been helpful at home.

6. Remember: You Are a Key Member of the Team

Annual reviews are collaborative. Your perspective, advocacy, and partnership are critical to creating a plan that supports your child’s success.

If you have questions ahead of your meeting or need support preparing, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s IEP Case Manager. We truly value our partnership with families and appreciate the trust you place in us.

Please be on the lookout for meeting invites from my office and information from your child’s Special Education Teacher.

Thank you for your continued collaboration and commitment to your child’s learning and well-being.

Warm regards,

Nancy Miller

Reminder: Keep Your Cases On!

Students must keep their cases on their Chromebook. These cases are not bulky and do not limit uses. This is done to prevent accidental damage. Please make sure your student has their case on and the Chromebook is charged to start the day.

Tech Support

If you or your student has a technology issue related to school please use the following link:

Technology Support Request. There are also supports in place in each building where students can access help for their devices or get a spare device.

Cybersecurity Awareness

There has been an uptick in phishing attempts recently. This does not only affect businesses and schools, but can affect anyone. Here are some helpful links and printables to help you and your student (feel free to share):

• Four Easy Ways to Stay Safe Online
• Online Safety Resources
• Multi-factor Authentication Why?
• Ransomware
• Online Gaming Safety
• 11 Online Safety Tips
• Cybersecurity Infographics.pdf

Tech Support

If you or your student has a technology issue related to school please use the following link:

Technology Support Request. There are also supports in place in each building where students can access help for their devices or get a spare device.

Hello WCSD Community,

For many of us, the New Year brings a fresh start to many aspects of our life, with health and wellness being one of the most common resolutions for those that wish to make improvements to their habits. The habits that we form are a core component of our daily life and many, if not all our habits, are done without conscious thought playing a role. For example, the way we brush our teeth, having a snack when we are bored, our bedtime routines, and so on. These may sound trivial, but the cumulative effect of choices that impact our health can have a major impact on our physical and mental well-being.

Many of us wish to make changes that improve our health after the New Year and our habits play a major role. Both good and bad habits are hard to break and many struggle to make these changes and find themselves slipping back into old habits that make achieving better health more challenging. For those that find themselves struggling to build better habits and to break old ones, know that not all change happens at once. It’s never too late to make healthier choices and build habits that will benefit your future health. The following are some sensible tips on how you can make small changes that will help you build healthier habits in 2026 and maintain them in the future:

• Start small. Make incremental changes instead of large ones. You don’t need to do everything all at once.

• Create a plan. This can be simple. For example: eat 1 piece of fruit a day or go for a walk to the end of the road and back.

• Cut yourself some slack. A slip up here and there won’t ruin your progress. Don’t let a bad day make you feel like you aren’t doing a good job.

• Track your progress. There are many apps available for this. Pick one that you like and use it daily. You will be amazed at the difference it makes.

• Don’t work alone. Having a partner in your journey to build a healthier lifestyle can make all the difference. Find a friend or family member to participate with you.

• Treat yourself. It’s ok to reward your hard work with something you enjoy whether it’s a special meal, a fun trip, or just a day of relaxing.

• Find inspiration. There are so many resources that provide self-help guidance. Find one that speaks to you and make use of it. Audiobooks are great for those with long commutes or for those who like to listen to something while they work around the house.

Nick Weis

WCSD Nurse Coordinator

The district’s School Health Services program supports your student’s academic success by promoting health in the school setting. One way that we provide care for your student is by performing the health screenings as mandated by the State of New York.Throughout the school year mandatory New York State health screenings will be conducted in the health offices for new entrants and students in following grades: UPK, Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, and 11th. Required screenings are grade specific and may include: vision, hearing, and scoliosis screenings. A letter will be sent home if your student requires follow-up with your healthcare provider. For vision screenings only, parents will be notified of all results. Please call the Health Office if you have questions or concerns.

In the spring, you should have received information from your student’s health office containing a new OTC form and a release of PHI form. If you have not done so, we recommend completing and returning these forms to your student’s health office as soon as possible. The forms are also available on the WCSD website:

WCSD>Departments>Health Services

To ensure the safety and well-being of all students, and to remain in compliance with New York State Education Law, please be aware of the following strict requirements for all medications administered during the school day:

• Medical Order Required: Any medication, including all over the counter (OTC) medications (such as Tylenol, petroleum jelly (for chapped lips), cough drops, or antacids) and all prescription medications, must have a current, written order from a licensed healthcare provider (e.g., Physician, Physician Assistant, Nurse Practitioner). Please note a prescription label is not acceptable as a doctor’s order

• Annual Renewal: These medical orders and parent/guardian consent forms must be renewed every school year. They do not carry over from the previous year.

• Parent/Guardian Delivery: All medications must be brought to the school health office by a parent or guardian (an adult). Students are not permitted to transport medication to or from school.

• Original Container: Medication must be in the properly labeled, original container from the pharmacy or manufacturer. You can ask your pharmacist for a separate, properly labeled container for school.

**While it is not a violation of NYS regulations, it is not recommended that health offices carry stock medications. Please be aware that the health office may not have items such as Tylenol, antacids, cough drops, Vaseline, etc. for your student. If you want to ensure that your student has access to these items, we encourage you to bring them to your student’s health office.

OTC Form

Release Form

Over The Counter Medication in Schools

Per NYS regulations, the school must follow strict guidelines for students to take medication during the school day. This applies to both prescription and over the counter medications. Please review the following if you would like your child to have access to OTC medications in school:

• Medication order required – A licensed healthcare provider must provide the health office with a written order for all medication including over the counter medications.

• Annual Renewal: Orders expire each year and must be renewed as they do not carry over

• Parent/Guardian Delivery – The parent/guardian must bring the medication to school as students are not allows to transport medication.

• Original Container: All medication must be properly labelled and in its original container from the pharmacy or manufacturer.

NYS does not recommend that the school keep stock medications. You may wish to send in certain over the counter medications to ensure your child has access to them. If you are uncertain if something qualifies as an over the counter medication, please contact your student’s health office. The FDA provides the schools with a list that is surprisingly thorough and includes items such as lotions, alcohol prep pads, and saltwater rinses.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your student’s health office.

Joy Reynolds, RN

High School Nurse

315-589-9625

315-410-5470 (fax)

jreynolds@williamsoncentral.org

Nick Weis, RN BSN

Middle School Nurse

315-589-9665, ext. 3521

315-410-5586 (fax)

nweis@williamsoncentral.org

Hayley Musclow, RN

Elementary School Nurse

315-589-9668 option 3

315-410-5343 (fax)

hmusclow@williamsoncentral.org

The Fall 2025 athletic season was an exceptional one for the Williamson Marauders, defined by championship success, strong student participation, and outstanding individual achievements. Across all programs, our student-athletes demonstrated perseverance, leadership, and pride in representing our school and community.

Girls Varsity Soccer, led by Head Coach Sarah Klejment and Assistant Coach Steve Parshall, completed an outstanding 8-0-2 season with 23 student-athletes. The team earned the Wayne County Championship, secured the #1 seed in Class B2, and finished as Class B2 Sectional Co-Champions. Individual postseason recognition included Lauren Schmeelk (1st Team / Player of the Year), Madyson Storey, Sara Niles, Katie Kuhl, and Jocelynn Carpenter earning 1st Team honors. Natalie Schmeelk and Ryne Hoody were named 2nd Team, while Natalie Karasinski, Haeden Wing, Halle Verbridge, and Mackenzie Frank received Honorable Mention recognition.

Boys Varsity Soccer, coached by Albert Ferland with Assistant Coach Alan Smith, posted a strong 14-6-1 record with 21 participants and captured the Section V Class C1 Championship. Individual accolades were highlighted by Ben Burns, who earned All-Sectional honors, 1st Team All-County, and 1st Team All-State recognition. Additional award recipients included Caiden Hillegeer (All-Sectional, 2nd Team All-County), Cohen Burggraaff (2nd Team All-County), Mikey Ishler, Andrew Petrosky, and Brett Bryon (3rd Team All-County), as well as Ethan Niles and Caleb Zuniga (All-Sectional).

Girls Cross Country, under the leadership of Head Coach Patrick Tyler, continued to set the standard of excellence with an undefeated 19-0 season and 14 student-athletes. The team earned East Division Champion and Section V Class C Champion honors. Individually, Hannah Governor was a standout, earning 1st Team All-League, Sectional Individual Champion, 1st Team Section V All-Star, a State Championship bronze medal, and qualification for the Federation Championships. Georgie Alexander earned 1st Team All-League, 3rd Team Section V All-Star, and a 2nd place Class C sectional finish, while Ellie Alexander earned 1st Team All-League and a 5th place Class C sectional finish. Breanna Shaver was named 3rd Team All-League.

Boys Cross Country, also coached by Patrick Tyler, finished the season with a 16-3 record and six participants, capturing the Section V Class C Championship. Individual honors included Aaron Meyer and Michael Ciripompa earning 1st Team All-League recognition. Meyer was the Sectional Individual Champion, a 2nd Team Section V All-Star, and a state medalist, while Ciripompa finished 2nd in Class C at sectionals and also earned a state medal.

Girls Volleyball, coached by Richard Bouwens, featured nine student-athletes who demonstrated resilience, effort, and commitment throughout a challenging season. While wins were limited, the team gained valuable experience and laid important groundwork for future growth within the program.

Girls Swimming, led by Head Coach Michael Considine, was represented by two dedicated student-athletes who ensured continued participation and opportunity within the program, reinforcing our commitment to offering a broad range of athletic opportunities.

While championships and awards are important, the true success of the fall season was the daily commitment shown by our student-athletes, coaches, and families. I am incredibly proud of the way our programs competed, supported one another, and represented Williamson. The momentum from this fall sets a strong foundation as we transition into the winter athletic season.

The district has implemented a new process for moving athletes up a level (e.g., Modified to JV, JV to Varsity):

• Coaches must speak with AD before having any conversation with the athlete or their family.

• Requests will be reviewed.

• If approved, the Varsity coach will contact the family to confirm their support.

• If the family agrees, AD will move forward with scheduling APP testing.

NYSPHSAA Spectator Expectations

• The New York State High School Athletics Association developed and will require that all school districts implement and enforce Sportsmanship Standards, effective Fall 2023.

• NYSPHSAA Expectation Statement: Officials, just like student athletes and coaches, are critical to interscholastic sports programs. Without officials, NYSPHSAA and its member schools would not be able to provide interscholastic sports in the manner that is desired and expected by student athletes, coaches, and parents. In addition to abiding by the HCS Code of Conduct, spectators are expected to “Be Loud, Be Proud, and Be Positive.” Negative comments and inappropriate behaviors by spectators are required to be addressed by all and any school supervisors and administrators, as a member of NYSPHSAA in the following non-sequential order depending on the comments or behavior:

• First warning – Directing the spectator or group of spectators to refrain from any negative comments or actions.

• Second warning – A personal discussion with the spectators or group of spectators on the above NYSPHSAA expectations and reminding the spectators or group of spectators of the next step - removal of the game or event - will be utilized if the behavior continues.

• Removal from the contest – The spectator or group of spectators will be directed to leave the facility for the remainder of the game or event.

• If spectators or group of spectators refuse to leave the game or event, play will be stopped until they vacate the premise.

• Penalty for being removed from a game or event: Any spectator removed from a game or event will have a minimum penalty of completing the NFHS Parent Credential course or a one game suspension before they are allowed to attend any interscholastic event, home or away.

• Once the course is completed the spectator will provide a certificate of completion to the athletic department office.

• Schools are required to communicate with the offending spectator on the NYSPHSAA Sportsmanship Spectator Expectations.

• Spectators may be prohibited from attending current and future interscholastic contests based on their behavior. (Oct. 2022)

• Depending on the severity of the behavior/comments or future disqualifications by the offending spectator NYSPHSAA and the Section may get directly involved in the situation. (May 2023)

On January 14, 2026, President Donald J. Trump signed into law the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025. This law amends Section 9(a)(2)(A) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1758(a)(2)(A)) revising requirements for milk provided through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National School Lunch Program (NSLP).

Types of Fluid Milk

Previously, schools participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) were required to provide milk that is consistent with the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Current USDA regulations require milk to be fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1%) and allow milk to be flavored or unflavored. Additionally, schools could only offer non-dairy beverages that are nutritionally equivalent to fluid milk upon request.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 modifies these restrictions and permits schools to offer students expanded fluid milk options. Effective immediately, schools participating in the NSLP may offer students at lunch the following fluid milk options: whole, reduced-fat (2%), low-fat (1%), and fat-free fluid milk and lactose-free fluid milk, and non-dairy beverages that are nutritionally equivalent to fluid milk and meet the USDA nutritional standards for fluid milk substitutes. Fluid milk may be unflavored or flavored and non-organic or organic options.

Fluid Milk Requirements

Consistent with existing requirements, schools must offer at least two different options of fluid milk at lunch daily. Milk varieties may be unflavored or flavored, provided that unflavored milk is offered at each meal service and that flavored milk does not exceed the added sugars limit.

All milk options offered must be pasteurized and meet State and local standards for such milk. The following milk options (flavored or unflavored) meet the meal pattern requirements for fluid milk and may be offered to all students at school lunch:

• whole, reduced-fat (2%), low-fat (1%) and fat-free (skim) milk;

• lactose-free and lactose-reduced milk;

• cultured milk, such as cultured buttermilk, cultured kefir milk, and cultured acidophilus milk;

• acidified milk, such as acidified kefir milk and acidified acidophilus milk; and

• ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk.

Whole Milk At WCS

Williamson Elementary and Middle Schools received their first delivery of Whole and 2% milk on 01/15/2026. The High School's first delivery will come with their next milk delivery. We will continue to offer low-fat milk for students that prefer it. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Tina VanStrien, Director of Food Service for Williamson Central School District.

• The Dietary Guidelines for Americans have recently been updated. Visit realfood.gov for more information.
• Better health begins on your plate—not in your medicine cabinet. The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines real food as whole, nutrient-dense, and naturally occurring, placing them back at the center of our diets.

🍏 School Meals- Important Updates!

• Free Meals! We will operate under Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) again this school year. Students are eligible to receive 1 breakfast and 1 lunch each school day at no cost. Second meals, sides, and snacks must be paid for at time of purchase.

• Menu Updates and Additions: As a direct result of the Food Service Student Survey, we have made some changes to our menus. At the High School, we also added SUBS as a daily choice in the Wrap Line, along with made to order Wraps and Salads. Our menus are posted on the district website under “Lunch Menus”. We also have menus posted in each school building and cafeteria.

• Buddy Bags: We now offer Buddy Bags for the students that bring their lunch to school. Students can get a milk, fruit, and a vegetable at no charge. In the Elementary School- These are ordered in the morning with their homeroom teacher. In our Middle and High Schools- they can be picked up in the kitchen at lunch time.

• Middle School: Order Wrap/Salad Info. We offer made to order wraps and salads each day in the Middle School. Pre-Order your wrap or salad online via the school website under Menus each morning before 9:00 a.m. You should also have a desktop link on your chromebook. If you prefer a paper order form, stop down in the kitchen to pick one up.

2025-26 Household Income Forms

If you haven’t already, please complete a Household Income Eligibility Form for the 2025–26 school year. Even if you don’t qualify, submitting the form helps our district secure additional funding for educational programs. More information is available at: https://hungersolutionsny.org/federal-nutrition-programs/

• Forms are available online, in the 2025-26 school calendar, or in your school’s main office.

• Only one form is needed per household.

Make America Healthy Again: What It Means for School Meals

Our district is excited to align with the upcoming federal Make Our Children Healthy Again strategies, which will focus on giving students healthier choices at school. These strategies are designed to promote long-term health and support students in building strong eating habits that carry into adulthood. One of the primary areas that will have a significant impact on us is food de-regulation.

Food Deregulation: HHS, FDA, and USDA will take the following actions:

• Remove restrictions on whole milk sales in schools, allowing districts to offer full-fat dairy options

alongside reduced-fat alternatives.

• Eliminate mandatory reduced-fat requirements in federal nutrition programs to allow consumer choice.

• Remove barriers preventing small dairy operations from processing and selling their own milk products locally.

For more information visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/maha

⚠️ Allergen & Dietary Accommodations

We know that student safety is the top priority.

• Food Allergies, Intolerances: If your child has a medical condition or dietary need, please notify the school so we can safely prepare meals. Contact Tina VanStrien and/or the school nurse.

• Cross-Contact Prevention: Our staff is trained in safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of allergen exposure.

If you have any questions about dietary accommodations, please contact our Food Service Office.

📱 Stay Connected

• Menus: Menus are posted on our district website and mobile app.

• Questions? We welcome your feedback anytime! Please contact the Food Service Office at tvanstrien@williamsoncentral.org or 315-589-9621.

We’re proud to partner with families in making sure every student has access to nourishing meals that support health and learning. Thank you for supporting school meals, and we look forward to a fantastic year!

Warmly,
Tina VanStrien
Director of Food Service
Williamson Central School District

Please contact Tina VanStrien via Email at tvanstrien@williamsoncentral.org or 315-589-9621.

Transportation Department; Winter Weather Safety

SAFETY is number 1…

As drivers, we deal with icy roads, black ice, reduced visibility, longer stopping distances due to the road conditions. The slower speeds and longer stops are not the drivers being “slow”, but necessary to prevent skids, and accidents, and ultimately to keep our children safe! We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these tough conditions. Sometimes these delays are not the weather but are due to the current driver shortage we are facing. At times we must leave the transportation facility empty because all office staff and mechanics are driving. You can follow your child’s bus on the BusRight App. This allows you to see if there is a delay.

Recently, we addressed student safety. We asked parents to encourage children to wear bright colored clothing or add reflective material to backpacks and jackets. If your child has a cell phone, encourage them to turn their flashlight on so they are more visible to drivers. Remember, with the winter weather there are hazardous conditions to be mindful of. Please remind children to be careful while walking to bus stops and buses. With snowbanks getting higher, children are difficult to see. We have noticed children are standing too close to the roads…please remind them to stand back 15 feet from the road. With the snowplows out, being too close to the road can be extremely dangerous.

When the REDS are activated on a school bus…it is illegal for motorists to pass, this includes buses in a bus loop at a school! However, a bus driver or police officer may signal a motorist to proceed when the red lights are activated. (VTL 1174 (a)). If you have any questions. Feel free to call us at the transportation department.

Late Buses: We have received phone calls from concerned parents about their children arriving home late, or later than they have in the past when riding the late bus. We want to explain how the late bus run works; the district has always used fewer buses for the late run than at the regular dismissal time. This contributes to the route being longer. The late route never has the same children riding every day. There is no set route for the late bus. The drivers make these routes up as they go. Each driver has a set of roads they cover during the late bus route and the students that get on the bus determine which roads they go to. It is the driver’s discretion as to how they cover the roads with their bus. On occasion, the driver will reverse how the roads are covered so the same students are not always last getting off the bus.

Williamson Central Transportation Department provides training to get your Class B CDL to drive school bus. We are always looking for substitute drivers and there are opportunities to become full-time.

** If you have any transportation needs or changes, please complete a 2025 - 2026 Transportation Form for your children attending school. The form can be found on the school website. You can use the google form and submit it after completing it or use the paper form, print it, complete and send to transportation@williamsoncentral.org. Thank you!

Victoria Indelicato

Transportation Director transportation@williamsoncentral.org

Williamson Central School 315-589-6901

I hope everyone had a save and wonderful holiday! As noted in the Board of Education meeting, you may notice some changes around the buildings. We've came up with our hallway names and have started getting them put up. I would like to thank the students who helped come up with the names and all of the staff between all the buildings that have assisted in making this happen! Reminder to our students who dive, slow down and use caution during inclement weather. As always, be safe!

WCS has incorporated the Safe School Helpline as another means of communication for our learning community regarding safety concerns. The Safe School Hotline is yet another safety net and security measure designed to support the mental health needs of our students and community. Students may use the Safe School Helpline to report threats of violence, suicide and illegal activity that could harm students in our schools. It is a convenient, confidential way for anyone to report information about situations that might affect safety at our school. You can call the number any time of the day or night to report concerns about unsafe or potentially disruptive activities or situations including drug or alcohol abuse, weapons, or threats. All calls are completely confidential.

How can I report information?

Safe School Helpline: (800) 418-6423 EXT. 359

Online at: https://www.safeschoolhelpline.com/

Please watch the below video to learn more about the Safe School Helpline:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjy3ivG2uwg

Any incident of student misconduct may be linked to our Code of Conduct, but depending on the nature of misconduct may also intersect with DASA or the Sexual Harassment BOE Policy. The following is being shared in attempt to provide clarity for all WCS families.

WCS Code of Conduct:

• Per SED, the Board of Education of every school district within New York State is required to adopt and amend, as appropriate, a Code of Conduct for the maintenance of order on school property, including a school function, which shall govern the conduct of students, teachers and other school personnel as well as visitors and shall provide for the enforcement thereof.
• Any and all student misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct. Investigation and enforcement of Code of Conduct violations is the responsibility of building level administration, and may be supported by a Dean of Students and/or other support staff.
• The Code of Conduct articulates the range of progressive dispositions for offenses, and the district strives for consistency in its application.

Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) Policy:

• The DASA legislation is intended to provide students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function. Please review the above link for more information on DASA.
• Protected classes in the DASA legislation include: race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, and sex.
• Behaviors outlined in DASA are also identified as prohibited student conduct within the WCS Code of Conduct. As such, any such misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct.
• Please report any DASA concerns as outlined below:
  • Contact your building level administrator. Administration welcomes and encourages direct and open lines of communication with students and families.
  • Tell a trusted adult, such as any member of the mental health staff or a teacher. School personnel are required to notify an administrator in the event of such a report.
  • Complete the Incident Reporting Form located on our website. Building principals actively monitor this tool for reports of peer conflict, misconduct, bullying, and/or harassment.
• District appointed DASA Coordinators conduct DASA investigations. The WCS DASA Coordinators include the following staff members:
  • Scott Drechsler ESDASA@williamsoncentral.org
  • Kathryn Taylor MSDASA@williamsoncentral.org
  • Rob Snyder HSDASA@williamsoncentral.org

Sexual Harassment (Student) Policy:

• Title IX is a federal law which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex and provides, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Please review the above link for more information.
• Behaviors outlined in Title IX are also identified as prohibited student conduct within the WCS Code of Conduct. As such, any such misconduct may be investigated and enforced under the district’s Code of Conduct.
• Please note, however, in the event of a report of sexual harassment, the family of a student victim will be contacted by a district appointed Title IX Coordinator to discuss investigation options, time parameters for a formal Title IX investigation, and other considerations (such as confidentiality) of such an investigation.
• In the event a Title IX complaint is filed, the family of the alleged offender will also be contacted by district appointed Title IX Coordinator to discuss the investigation, time parameters and other considerations.
• The WCS Title IX Coordinators include:
  • Rob Snyder, High School Principal
  • Kathryn Taylor, Middle School Principal
  • Bryon Rockow, Middle School Assistant Principal
• Questions about Title IX information may be directed to the individuals named above or to wcstitleix@williamsoncentral.org.
• Title IX concerns should be reported as previously outlined above (and reinforced here):
  • Contact your building level administrator. Building administration welcome and encourage direct and open lines of communication with students and families. As Title IX Investigators, they also are “the lead” in any investigation and/or development of action steps to redress issues.
  • Tell a trusted adult, such as any member of the mental health staff or a teacher. School personnel are required to notify an administrator in the event of such a report.
  • Follow the Title IX Grievance process outlined on the website.
• Building level administrators are responsible for the disposition of any "founded" Title IX complaint.

To support student safety and encourage scholarly behaviors when using devices, the Williamson Central School District incorporated online services provided by GoGuardian a number of years ago. It may be helpful to know that over 10,000 other schools use GoGuardian to protect 5.5 million students across the world, and the Global Educator Institute has endorsed the GoGuardian Teacher product.

How are we using GoGuardian?

• WCS has chosen GoGuardian services to:

1. Help protect students against harmful and inappropriate online material
2. Help students stay “scholarly” and more focused when learning online
3. Help assess students’ progress towards class assignments

When and how does GoGuardian operate?

• GoGuardian’s web-based services operate on our school’s managed G Suite for Education Chrome accounts (i.e. when a student is logged into Chrome or a Chromebook with his/her school email address).
• GoGuardian Teacher enables teachers to use GoGuardian Teacher with students in their classes only during school hours from Monday through Friday.

What are the school’s responsibilities?

• WCS selected GoGuardian services to help our students stay safer and more scholarly online. We will work with students during class time to help teach them digital responsibility and safety. Additionally, we will train teachers about how to operate GoGuardian and about our policies and procedures to help protect student privacy.
• Parents maintain responsibility to supervise their children’s use of devices.

What are my parental/guardian and child’s responsibilities?

• We ask that students uses their school-managed Google accounts and school-managed devices for educational purposes within the boundaries of the WCS Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement.
• When a student is off campus, parents are responsible for supervising internet access and usage. We encourage you to discuss rules for appropriate internet usage with your child, and to reinforce lessons of digital citizenship and safety with him or her. We also highly encourage you to report any potential cyberbullying or other sensitive issues to us.

How does GoGuardian help protect my child’s privacy?

• To help your child remain scholarly and safe online, GoGuardian collects certain personally identifiable information about your child.
• GoGuardian has consulted with privacy experts, participates in privacy organizations, is a proud signatory of the Student Privacy Pledge, and has been awarded certifications by iKeepSafe for complying with both the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act and California student privacy laws. For more detailed information about GoGuardian, you may visit GoGuardian’s website, Trust & Privacy Center, GoGuardian’s Product Privacy Policy, and the attached COPPA Notice and Disclosure Form.

For those who haven't heard the news - we have been awarded a grant from the National PTA! This grant will allow us to host an event to bring high school families together for an open and interactive discussion with teens on their online experiences and equip families with practical information and resources to enhance online safety as teens use various digital platforms. This program is for high school students (13+) and their parents/caregivers. A continued thanks to Patty Kimmerly, Sara Mitchell, Amanda Johnson, and Ashley Davis for pulling all of the information together and composing our grant application!

2025-2026 PTSA Meetings

All meetings are held on Tuesdays and for now will be in the Elementary School Library. 6:30pm

• September 9
• October 14
• November 18
• January 13
• February 10
• March 10
• April 14
• May 12
• June 9

2025-26 PTSA Officers

• Veronica Weber - President

• Lucia Copeland - Vice President

• Jenn Juby - Secretary

• Alysha Peets - Treasurer

2025-26 Membership

Want to get involved? The PTSA is always looking for volunteers to help PTSA sponsored events to life. Whether you have a little time or a lot, we’d love to have you join us! Volunteering is a great way to connect with other families and make a lasting impact on our schools. Keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities—or reach out anytime to learn more.

What is a Community School?

Community schools are schools that partner with the community to provide additional support for students and families. The goal of community schools is to improve student achievement and create a better learning environment for students. Wayne County Community Schools is committed to developing collaborative programs centered at schools that stretch out into the community to help young people and families learn, grow, and thrive. Wayne County Community Schools employs the Community Schools framework to make effective changes for our youth across Wayne County both inside and outside of school.

How do I access community schools support in Williamson?

At Williamson Central School District, we have Community Schools coordinators who support a wide variety of resources for us. Please reach out with any questions or if you are in need of help with these resources.

Lisa Ryan - MS

lryan@williamsoncentral.org

315-589-9665

Erin Rowley - ES

erowley@williamsoncentral.org

315-589-9668

Molly St. Cyr - HS

mstcyr@williamsoncentral.org

The Williamson Central School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are currently seeking to hire SUBSTITUTES in the following areas:

• School Nurse
• Teachers
• Teacher Assistants
• Monitors (Hall/Cafeteria/Transportation)
• Bus Drivers
• Cleaners
• Typists
• Food Service Workers

Please complete the application as outlined on our website.

For Questions, Contact:

• Nikki Oathout Phone: (315) 589-9661, Email: noathout@williamsoncentral.org

• The Board of Education adopted the 2025-26 Instructional Calendar during a Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on February 12, 2025.
• The 2025-26 calendar factors in WFL BOCES programming calendar and meets contractual obligations for our instructional, operational and administrative units.

July 23

August 6

August 27

September 17

October 15

November 5

December 3

January 7

January 28

February 11

March 4

March 18 Budget Workshop @5:30pm, Regular Meeting @6:30pm

April 8

April 22 The Board of Education will vote on the W-FL BOCES

Election/Administrative Budget at the April 23, 2025

Regular Board meeting at 6:30pm.

May 6 Budget Hearing

May 27

June 17

Email: bashton@williamsoncentral.org

Website: https://www.williamsoncentral.org/

Location: 4184 Miller Street (P.O. Box 900) Williamson, NY 14589

Phone: 315-589-9661