September Newsletter
2024-2025
Welcome Back to an Exciting New School Year!
We hope everyone enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating summer filled with relaxation, fun, and cherished memories. As the days grow shorter and the crispness of autumn fills the air, we are thrilled to welcome back our returning students and families to another fantastic school year. We also extend a warm welcome to our new students and staff members.
This year promises to be filled with exciting opportunities for growth, learning, and community building. In this edition of our newsletter, we'll be sharing all the latest news and updates about our school. Get ready to discover upcoming events that will engage and inspire our students, learn about the innovative curriculum enhancements implemented over the summer, and explore our new "Parent Corner" section, designed specifically to support and inform you.
We are incredibly excited about the possibilities this new school year holds and can't wait to see all the amazing things we will accomplish together. Let's make this year one to remember!
Staff Spotlight
Our Custodial and Kitchen Staff
Eric, Dustin, Joe, Tara and Jen are dedicated individuals who are the heart of our facility's operations, ensuring a clean, safe, and efficient environment for everyone. Their tireless efforts in maintaining cleanliness, addressing maintenance issues, creating delicious and nutritious lunches are truly commendable. We express our sincere gratitude for their commitment to excellence.
Eric Hample
Eric has been a dedicated member of our district for eighteen years, serving as both a Head Custodian and a bus driver. Watching his niece and nephew attend the same school he did has been a personal highlight.
Eric takes immense pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for students and staff. His friendly demeanor and positive attitude shine through in his interactions with everyone. As a bus driver, he greets each child with a warm smile and a friendly greeting, setting the tone for a positive start to their day.
Beyond his work, Eric is a passionate outdoor enthusiast. Whether he's conquering snow-covered mountains on a snowboard or exploring new cultures abroad, his adventurous spirit knows no bounds.
One particularly memorable student moment occurred during dismissal when a playful student jokingly suggested that Eric hurry up so he could go home and use the bathroom!
If Eric could have a superpower for a day, he'd choose to be a magical cleaning wizard, capable of tidying up any mess with a simple snap of his fingers.
Dustin Traynor
Dustin has been a valuable member of our district for ten years, serving as both a bus driver and a custodian. He appreciates the flexibility his role provides, allowing him to spend quality time with his family.
Outside of work, Dustin is a passionate gardener and enjoys traveling. One of the funniest moments he's experienced on the job was when a pre-kindergarten student, struggling with their seatbelt, exclaimed, "I'm stuck!"
If Dustin could have a superpower for a day, he'd choose the ability to instantly remove footprints from freshly waxed floors, ensuring a clean and safe environment for everyone.
Joe Parent
Joe has been cruising through Long Lake CSD for a cool four years now. His favorite part of the gig? The zen-like, stress-free vibes. Joe's all about mingling with students, peppering them with questions and brightening their days.
Outside the school walls, Joe's the ultimate outdoor enthusiast, shredding slopes on his snowboard, cruising on skis, and tearing up trails on his mountain bike.
And get this - the funniest thing a student ever told him was, "This window tastes funny." Classic!
If Joe could rock a superpower for a day, he'd totally opt for flying high in the sky. Watch out, Superman!
Tara Cleaveland
A lifelong resident of the Adirondacks, has deep roots in the region. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Raquette Lake, she graduated from Indian Lake Central School. Her passion for culinary arts led her to pursue a degree in Commercial Cooking at SUNY Adirondack.
With a wealth of experience in foodservice, Ms. Cleaveland has worked in various establishments throughout the area, honing her skills and gaining valuable insights into the industry. Her recent role as a Direct Support Assistant showcased her dedication to helping others, a quality that she brings to her culinary endeavors.
Eager to return to her culinary roots, Ms. Cleaveland resides in Tupper Lake. When she's not busy in the kitchen, she enjoys giving back to her community through volunteer work. Her hobbies include baking, crafting, and exploring the natural beauty of the Adirondacks through hiking, snowmobiling, boating, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Jennifer Signell
Meet Jen, the multitalented Food Service Worker and Cleaner at Long Lake CSD. Jen has worn many hats within the district, starting as a substitute and officially joining the team just nine months ago.
In the lively school setting, Jen thrives on the bustling energy and camaraderie among her colleagues. She finds joy in whipping up delectable meals that not only nourish but also delight the students with her vibrant fruit displays.
When she's not crafting culinary masterpieces, Jen unwinds with a good book or lets her creativity flow through writing. But don't be surprised to spot her camping, hiking, or tending to her garden.
One memorable moment for Jen was when a student struggled with a keypad at the lunch line, jokingly revealing his expertise in pressing buttons - much to his dad's chagrin!
If she could have a superpower, Jen dreams of channeling her inner Mary Poppins, zipping around with an umbrella, belting out tunes while magically tidying up her home!
Expectations
Study Hall
Study halls are a time for students to focus on their academic work. They can do homework, study for tests, work on projects, or get help from teachers.
Cell Phones
The abundance of research focusing on the harms of extended screen time, and the negative effects of cell phones on the development and well-being of adolescents, has become hard to miss over the past few months. In our school, we know that these devices not only create significant distractions to high quality instruction, but also contribute greatly to negative behaviors and unwanted social interactions which are disruptive to the school environment.
As we open the 2024-2025 school year, we will be managing student cell phone use in a more proactive way. Our goal this year will be to clearly communicate consistent expectations in each of our school spaces, and have a consistent, building-wide response when students do not adhere to these expectations.
As we move through the year, with these starting parameters, we will also keep an eye on developments with regards to a potential state-wide ban on cell phones in public schools, and will adjust accordingly, as needed. In the end, our goal is to provide a more distraction-free and healthy environment for all of our students.
Cafeteria
- Respect: Treat others with kindness, courtesy, and consideration.
- Wait patiently in line.
- Speak calmly and respectfully.
- Follow the "inside voice" rule.
- Responsibility: Take ownership of your actions and follow rules.
- Gather all trash and food scraps.
- Return trays and utensils to the designated area neatly.
- Leave the area clean and organized.
- Safety: Prioritize your own safety and that of others.
- Walk in the cafeteria.
- Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves.
- Report any accidents or injuries to staff.
Parents Corner
Immunization Requirements 2024-2025
Immunization requirements are based on both Public Health Law and Education law which apply to all students attending school. The link here provides an overview of the New York State Immunization Requirements for School Entrance/Attendance pertaining to the 2024-2025 School Year. All New York State School Districts must review the immunization records of each student enrolled in their district and report annually to the Department of Health. In doing so, the Long Lake Central School District is required to identify students who lack the required immunization(s) or students who are not in the process of completing the immunization series with a scheduled age appropriate appointment. Those students identified as not meeting the requirements will result in exclusion from school within 14 days of attendance. The Long Lake Central School District wishes to provide you with the information you need to ensure your child’s enrollment into school. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Mrs. Michelle Billings, RN, School Nurse at (518) 624-2221.
Resources on Supporting the Well-Being of Students
Prioritizing student well-being is essential for fostering a positive and supportive learning environment. When students feel safe, valued, and connected, they are more likely to be engaged in their education, achieve academic success, and develop healthy relationships. By prioritizing their well-being, schools can create a nurturing environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential.
Ways to Reduce Stress
(click on the image and follow the directions)
Sports
Soccer is in Full Swing!
Practices kicked of on August 26th. We are pumped for a thrilling season!
Our players, are dedicated and driven, honing their skills and building a camaraderie that's palpable on the field. Each pass, each goal, each strategic play is a testament to their hard work and unity.
As we gather ready to cheer our hearts out, we know that this season is not just about winning; it's about community, resilience, and the love of the game. So let's raise our voices, and show our unwavering support. Together, we are unstoppable. Go, Orange!