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The Clarkstown Connection

May 2025

The Clarkstown Connection May 2025
Picture of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Baiocco

A Message from the Superintendent

Dear Clarkstown Central School District Families and Staff,


As we close out another month in the District, I’m proud to reflect on the ways our students and staff continue to excel — from our youngest learners to our accomplished high schoolers.


This May marks one year of Shining Stars: Explorers of Tomorrow, an inclusive preschool special education program designed to support young learners with developmental delays or disabilities. The initiative has seen incredible growth thanks to the passionate educators who make it possible. A special thank you to Dr. Alexis Kearsey, who launched the program, and Director Sandra Condon for their leadership.


Clarkstown High School North’s 2024 yearbook has earned national recognition — selected for inclusion in Varsity Yearbook’s Portfolio, a showcase of the best yearbooks in the country. This places North among just 617 schools featured in this year’s volume, out of which more than 2,100 examples were curated, and just one of 59 selected for the Anthology section. Bravo on this well-deserved honor.


Finally, the month has also been a celebration of student voice and literary achievement. Congratulations to the following North students who were recognized in regional and national writing competitions: Caspar Cruz, Melanie Gallo, Haseeb Haider, Ben (Tsung Chun) Hsieh, Micah Krass, Avery Milton, Marissa Shields, Cecilia Simoes and Shaila Watson!


Now, let’s take a look back at some of the memorable moments and accomplishments from May!


Sincerely,


Marc P. Baiocco, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Clarkstown Central School District

May Highlights

students wearing college gear
Before they become Huskies, Explorers and Ravens (just to name a few), our Rams and Vikings at Clarkstown high schools North and South shared their post-graduation plans on Decision Day. We cannot wait to celebrate all of our seniors during this year's commencement ceremonies. Congratulations!
students petting dog
CCSD partnered with Hudson Valley Paws for a Cause during Mental Health Awareness Month. Not only did fourth graders at Woodglen Elementary School make a new four-legged friend in Rosie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and therapy dog, she also helped calm their nerves surrounding state testing. Sending PAWsitive vibes!
students dressed as superheroes
Our annual STEAMfest event held on May 8 at Felix Festa Middle School was a success. From students to grown adults, everyone suited up and answered the call to become more knowledgeable in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). The power to "Unleash the Hero" lies in all of us!
students on stage singing

Student-musicians performed during their Spring 2025 concerts. We caught up with: Grade 6 chorus at Festa; Grade 4 at Link Elementary School; grades 4-5 band and orchestra at Little Tor Elementary School; orchestra and choir at North; and, orchestra at South. Wishing good luck to all!

student working at their desk
Children continued to engage with our Enrichment for All curriculum. At Lakewood Elementary School, kindergartners explored how to BEE an engineer — building "gardens" to help care for these insects. At Laurel Plains Elementary School, first graders tapped into the minds of a scientist — using biomimicry to inspire inventions.
students on stage
Students across the District honored our nation's heroes with heartfelt Memorial Day tributes. At Laurel Plains, the fourth grade class presented a moving ceremony with patriotic songs and historical facts, while Bardonia Elementary School's band led a spirited parade throughout the hallways.

A Look Ahead

Birchwood graduate 2024
The countdown to graduation is on! With year-end events set to kick off next month, the close of another academic year is in sight. Across CCSD, we will be celebrating the educational milestones of our students in grades 5 and 8 — who will be moving up to the middle and high schools in September — and the graduating classes of 2025, who excitedly await their next chapters in college and career.


Please be on the lookout for communications from your child's school regarding important dates and instructions to ensure a fun, safe experience for all. Can't attend? Don't worry! Keep an eye on our social media for a front-row seat to all the action.

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