Dear North Colonie Families,
Today marks eight weeks of us being out of school. We know the longer we are out, the harder it can be for our students and families. We recognize there are many questions you have, but we cannot provide specific answers, until we have further guidance from the governor. As of right now, we are currently following the guidance in the governor’s executive order that ends on May 15.
As teaching and learning continues to take place virtually, please know that our faculty and staff are here for your families. Do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teachers, counselors or principals if you need anything. Before we head into the weekend, I have a few updates to share with you.
Annual School Budget Vote and Board of Education Election
Many of you may have heard that the annual School Budget Vote and Board of Education Election will take place on Tuesday, June 9. Per Governor Cuomo’s executive order, this vote will not take place in person. Instead, individuals will mail in their absentee ballots. Individuals who have voted on the school district budget within the last five years will automatically receive an absentee ballot. More information on the voting process will be provided via a postcard mailed to all district residents in the upcoming weeks.
Board of Education and Budget Meetings
Individuals are encouraged to watch the upcoming Board of Education and budget meetings. The Board of Education will hold a budget meeting on Thursday, May 14. Additionally, the Board of Education will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, May 18. The district budget hearing will take place on Thursday, May 28. All meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube. A link to the livestreams will be emailed the day of the meeting and posted on our district website.
Teacher Appreciation Week
I’d like to thank you for sending so many kind notes and messages to our teachers. The outpouring of support was an uplifting moment for me this week. We are so proud of our teachers and staff members for their work during the pandemic.
Weekly Boost
- Students helping students – The Shaker High Food Pantry is a student-led food bank that collects and distributes back-packs full of food to students and families throughout the North Colonie district. The pantry will continuously provide food to whomever needs it, even through the summer. The pantry has established a fund where individuals can donate to keep up their supply. Any amount helps and your support is greatly appreciated.
- Food drive at SJHS – Shaker Junior High School is hosting a Community Food Drive to support the school’s Food Pantry/Backpack Program on Thursday, May 14. Individuals can drop off items at the curbside from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. They are in need of the following items:
- Cereal
- Boxes of Oatmeal
- Canned Vegetables
- Canned Pasta Sauce
- Pasta
- Canned Tuna/Chicken
- Juice Boxes/Pouches
- Individual Snacks
- Microwave Popcorn
- Peanut Butter/Jelly
- Chef Boyardee
- Hearty Soups
- Granola Bars
- Mac N Cheese
I’d like to wish all those who celebrate a Happy Mother’s Day on Sunday! I hope it is a great day with your loved ones.
Sincerely,
D. Joseph Corr
Superintendent of Schools