Principal's Weekly Update #27

Dear Wales Families,

Our third graders participated in the NYS English Language Art's assessment this week. We also had a performance by Kevin McCarthy. The students learned about healthy habits and had fun dancing along!

Our PTO is in need a few volunteers for the executive board. The commitment for one of these positions is not extensive, but does require some time commitment. If we are not able to fill these positions, our field trips and community events are in jeopardy. Please consider reaching out to a current PTO member to find out if you might be able to help!

Next week we will celebrate Kindness Week at Wales. Our student council came up with some fun daily themes. Check out the WP website for details. Monday's theme is: Mindful Monday- dream of kindness and wear your pj's.

Our supply of playground balls and chalk have dwindled over the last two years and we are seeking donations of sidewalk chalk and balls- such as basketballs, soccer balls or general playground balls. These items can be dropped off at the main office any time.

The deadline for ordering your child a year book is Monday, April 27th.

We completed one of our remaining fire drills this week. We are planning to do the last one next week- weather dependent.

We are excited to share that our Art Department has been selected as one of only 25 schools across New York State to receive the NYSATA VISION Endorsement, a distinction that recognizes exemplary K–12 visual arts programs.

The VISION Award honors schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to sequential, standards-based arts instruction while prioritizing inclusivity, equity, accessibility, and meaningful student engagement. This designation acknowledges programs that not only meet high standards in curriculum and instruction but also actively work to ensure that all students have access to high-quality visual arts experiences.

The New York State Art Teachers Association describes the VISION Award as a recognition of schools that are shaping the future of creative learning—inspiring innovation, preparing students for a rapidly changing world, and contributing to students’ overall academic success and well-being. The review process includes a comprehensive self-assessment and rubric-based evaluation of curriculum rigor, equitable access, visibility, and advocacy.

Receiving this endorsement is a significant affirmation of the work our department does each day to support creative growth, critical thinking, problem-solving, and a strong, vibrant arts community within our school. It also reflects our district’s ongoing support for the visual arts and its belief in the importance of a well-rounded, high-quality education.

Thank you for your continued support of our students, our program, and the arts. We look forward to celebrating this achievement and using it as a foundation for continued growth and excellence.

Warm regards,

The Iroquois Art Department

News and updates from the PTO:

PTO still needs volunteers to fill indispensable position vacancies on next year's PTO Board. A Co-President and Fundraising Chair volunteer is required for the PTO to continue to offer next year's students all of the events and activities it supports. Nominations are welcome at the 4/3/25 PTO meeting and voting is held at the 5/1/25 PTO meeting - this is a current need! Please check the flyer sent home from school for more information about this need and the role of the PTO in our school community.

As we prepare for Kindergarten Registration, we’d like to share some important information:

• If your child is an Iroquois UPK student, you do NOT need to re-register them for Kindergarten. Your child is already registered and will attend the primary building based on your residence.
• The only additional requirement is to submit an updated health form and immunization record to the nurse at the primary building your child will attend (Elma, Marilla, or Wales).
• You will receive communication from the primary building regarding any Kindergarten transition events.
• Kindergarten Screening for UPK students will take place in May during their school day, so parents do not need to schedule a separate screening appointment. Further details about the screening process will be sent home.

• If you have any questions about the transition to Kindergarten, please contact the Wales Primary Office at (716) 652-3000 x 4001.

  
  

  2026/2027 UPK registration is open as well. Please see the district webpage for details.

This is a reminder that when your child is absent or tardy, legally we must have a note with a reason, upon the child's return to school. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

4/27 Annual instrument recruitment assembly (@the HS) for third grade students

4/30 Kindergarten Orientation 5:30-6:30pm for parents and students