Dear North Colonie Families,
Another week has come and gone and it certainly didn’t feel like spring, which I know didn’t make things any easier for us. However, I know you are all making the best of the situation and again, I want to thank you for doing your very best when it comes to keeping your children engaged. As of right now, Governor Cuomo has closed schools through Friday, May 15. The earliest we would return to school right now is Monday, May 18. We will continue to follow the governor’s executive orders, as he is the one who will make the decision about reopening school.
I understand things continue to change rapidly and it can be difficult to stay up-to-date on the latest information. You may have heard Governor Cuomo talk about significant cuts to state programs, including education. There are a number of unknowns related to funding for education, including how it will impact North Colonie and the status of the budget vote. As we work toward our annual school budget vote, we want to keep families informed on where the district stands. As a result, the district is planning to host a virtual budget meeting on Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m. At this meeting, we will share more on the current budgetary environment and tentative schedules for moving forward. An email with a link to the meeting will be sent out and posted on the district website that morning.
The actual budget vote date has not yet been determined, which makes planning for the future difficult at this time. We are awaiting guidance from the governor’s office and the New York State Education Department regarding a variety of scenarios when it comes to how district residents would vote. We hope to receive clarity on these items in the coming weeks.
Update on 4th Quarter Grading
The district is currently working with other schools districts in the region on how fourth quarter and final grades will be calculated. I understand this is a concern for many right now, so please know we are working on a plan and your child’s principal will share it with you in the coming weeks.
Weekly Boost
#NCPetParade – You may have noticed this week on Twitter that the district hosted the #NCPetParade. It was so great to see all of your new “coworkers” and friends at home. Please continue to share them with us! I know they can make people smile and we all need that right now. One new friend in particular stole the show this week…Meet Lady, Mr. Kaercher’s “tri-pawed.”
SHS Talent Show – Shaker High School students recently recorded themselves performing talents and created a SHS Talent Show video. You can view that here.
Story Time – It’s been a while since we’ve shared a story with you all. Take a listen to this special guest as she reads “I am Peace.”
Our Promise to You
I want to remind you that we will always be here for you and your family, with whatever you may need during this challenging time. While many things are changing daily, the following will always remain the same:
- Our dedication to serve you and your family
- Our focus on the district’s mission
- Our commitment to ensuring the health and safety of everyone in our school community
I know the days are long and it feels like this period of unknowns will never end. Please remember you are not alone and if you ever need someone to talk to or if you need help in any way, you can fill out this form to contact a district social worker.
Have a safe and relaxing weekend.
Sincerely,
D. Joseph Corr
Superintendent of Schools