3/19/2024 Letter to the Community

Para leer en español, haga clic en el botón "Traducir (Translate)" arriba.

March 19, 2024

Dear TUFSD Families and Staff,

Our faculty and students have been busy throughout the district. Our middle schoolers exemplified community and empowerment and showed Civic Mindedness. While our faculty was able to attend amazing workshops, organized by our staff that aligns with the Portrait of a Learner. Our educators engaged in hands-on activities, attended lectures, and worked with one another to create stronger bonds, which our students will benefit from. It’s always great to see a group of educators coming together to create a rich and dynamic learning environment for our students.

Finally, I’m excited to say that there are many projects in motion, as we are starting to see progress. We are finalizing plans so we can begin the next phase of the Bond project and current renovations in the district are moving along.

Thank you everyone for your continued support of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns and for your help in “Building a Better Tomorrow” for our students.

Sincerely,

Dr. Raymond Sanchez

📢 Don't forget! Spring Recess is almost here! 🌼

🏫 School closed: March 25 - April 1

📅 Students return on April 2

Get ready to recharge and enjoy the blossoming season with family and friends! 🌷

As we approach the beginning of spring, your district administrative team and Board of Education has been hard at work on the formation of the proposed school budget for 2024-25. The annual vote will take place this year on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.

Though the proposed budget has yet to be finalized, I am pleased to report that the plan will

fall well below the district’s tax cap. In fact, we will likely spend approximately $1.5 million less than what is defined as our limit.

While fiscal integrity is paramount, also important are the services that we deliver to the students and the broader community of Tarrytown. In that vein, I am excited to share some of the planned improvements that will be realized beginning July 1 (pending budget approval). As most know, I arrived in the district about nine months ago. In that short amount of time, I have done a great deal of listening, learning, and planning with our educators and other leaders. We ended 2023 with overwhelming community support for an expansive facilities improvement plan; today, we want to continue this emphasis on the quality of the learning environments by including two renovated science classrooms and an upgraded security system at the MS/HS in next year’s budget.

While the learning environments are critical to the teaching and learning processes, our leadership team has also done some excellent work in re-imagining the delivery of instruction

for select areas of our program. This started with an examination of our staffing strengths and

efficiencies and how we might apply these resources to best meet the needs of our students.

As a result, we anticipate adding needed sections of Spanish classes at the MS/HS, and introducing a new social worker at the High School. Opportunities for dual language learning will be increased across the district, and we will implement a new schedule that supports an aligned K-5 STEM curriculum.

Two important new programs are being introduced. The High School Safe School Ambassadors Program will augment anti-bullying efforts and promote personal advocacy, and the Edgenuity service, an online credit recovery program, will provide expanded, student-paced learning opportunities.

Transportation services will see an expansion of resources through the addition of a full-size

bus and two vans for student transportation. Special education placements are expected to

expand, as we fulfill our commitment to the needs of each child who walks through our doors.

What I have come to learn about Tarrytown UFSD over this school year is that there is a broad consensus on two subjects: first, that just because something has always been done a certain way, that does not mean it shouldn’t change if it’s in the best interests of our students; and second, that we carry forward a pride in everything we do to advance our schools and community.

It has been an honor to become immersed in all things Tarrytown over this past year. As we challenge ourselves each day to lead our students to their full potential, I look forward to the rich rewards this will bring to our students, our families, and our community

Currently, we are privileged to educate 108 students. We understand that this doesn't accommodate all interested families. This year, we have a waiting list of approximately 40 families.

After a thorough assessment, we've identified available New York State funding that we aim to secure in order to open more seats. If successful, this expansion will enable us to serve a greater number of students. The program will be hosted at a location with a track record of providing high-quality services.

Our business office will soon send out a request for proposals (RFP), and we will carefully evaluate all submissions. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in providing the best educational opportunities for our students.

Please join us for Bandemonium! on Wednesday 3/20 at 6 p.m. in the HS gymnasium. The program will feature all of our band students in grades 5-12 and the "World Premiere" of a new arrangement of our Alma Mater "Hail To Sleepy Hollow" by alumnus Bill Losier (Class of '88).

This concert is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Horsemen PTA and the Sleepy Hollow Performing Arts Boosters. This annual tradition brings together band students in grades 5 to 12 for a unique performance that allows them to show off their talents.

Read more: Students to Premiere New Version of "Hail To Sleepy Hollow"

Please join us for the SHHS Spring Musical Cinderella! The show is appropriate for all ages and is completely free!

FREE tickets are available at the door or reserve your seat on-line before April 3 through the link below:

Cinderella Reserved Ticket Link

Please see flyer for additional details

We hope to see you all there!

🗓️ WHEN:

April 5 at 7 p.m.

April 6 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

April 7 at 2 p.m.

On April 8, 2024, New York State will experience a total solar eclipse. On this day, we anticipate having a full day of instruction. During this event, the moon will pass between the sun and Earth, darkening the sky like dawn or dusk. Safety is paramount when viewing a total solar eclipse. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Do not look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection, except during the brief total phase when the moon completely blocks the sun. Viewing any part of the bright sun without proper protection can cause severe eye injury.

• Use safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses) or a safe handheld solar viewer to watch the eclipse's partial phases with your eyes directly. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the sun.

• Safe solar viewers should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Purchase from trusted vendors listed on the American Astronomy Society's website.

• Inspect your eclipse glasses before use; if damaged, discard them.

• Do not use eclipse glasses with optical devices like cameras, telescopes, or binoculars; the concentrated solar rays can cause serious eye injury.

• Supervise students to ensure they wear their protective glasses correctly.

During the eclipse

• View the sun through eclipse glasses during the partial eclipse phases before and after totality.

• View the eclipse directly without eye protection only during totality, when the moon completely obscures the sun's bright face. Put your eclipse glasses back on as soon as you see any part of the sun reappear after totality.

Skin Safety

• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing to prevent skin damage.

Currently, we continue to meet in order to finalize plans for the Morse School renovations. We also aim to submit our plans to replace the field and bleachers at Washington Irving.

Below is an image that demonstrates the current stage of the project:

The Journal News and lohud.com have partnered with area schools to highlight the achievements of local students. Joseph "Jai" Weitzen, a Senior at Sleepy Hollow High School, received 21,629 votes in last week's poll and is the first student to win Student of the Week.

Read all about it here:

Readers choose Lower Hudson Valley Student of the Week for March 15

This past week, sophomores Nico Mayor (drums), and Henry Scheller (bass), performed an impressive set of challenging and diverse music as members of the 2024 WCSMA All-County Jazz Bands. Acceptance into the all-county Jazz groups is determined by audition. Only two students from across the county are selected for the drum chair and bass chair. For Henry and Nico to earn these chairs as sophomores is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to their ability, practice, and love for making music.

Additionally, senior, Nina Lyppens, performed in Syracuse, NY as a member of the NYSBDA Statewide Honor Concert Band. This highly selective group is comprised of some of the most extraordinary young musicians from across New York State. Over 500 students applied to participate in this year’s group. Acceptance into the ensemble is based on a student resume, work samples, and teacher recommendation. This tremendous accomplishment is made all the more impressive by the fact that this is Nina’s third-straight year being accepted into the group.

Sleepy Hollow High School senior Milo Eaton’s film has been accepted into the Nyack International Film Festival on April 2 at 7 p.m. Milo is co-president of the SHHS Film Club and will be majoring in film at Emerson College in September. This is quite an accomplishment!

Quick on the link to see the films that were selected: Nyack International Film Festival Films

Second graders from Morse had an enriching visit to Mercy University, delving into future careers and college prospects. Thankful to Mercy University for sparking inspiration in our young minds!

Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society is the only national organization for high school juniors and seniors that recognizes excellence in the field of Social Studies.

Congratulations to all the new inductees of the Rho Kappa Honor Society—your dedication to academic excellence and leadership is truly inspiring!

Last Friday's Superintendent's Conference Day was a success, featuring 300 teachers engaging in 30 sessions tailored to their professional growth, each session aligning with our Portrait of a Learner framework. Thanks to our in-house teacher experts who served as presenters, from Social Emotional Learning to ELL Pedagogy and Technology Integration, all focused on the Skills and Dispositions of our Portrait of a Learner! The day offered an array of opportunities for personalized learning, ensuring endless inspiration and growth for our educators.

Our library renovations at the middle/high school are moving along nicely. We are making huge strides and can't wait to have our scholars utilizing this space. 📚

Polls are now open for our next Student of the Week. This week, the two amazing students who are representing Sleepy Hollow are Isabella Luciano and Carlon "CJ" Evans!

Show your Sleepy Hollow spirit and pride! Vote now and vote often! You can vote as many times as you want!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Polls will be open until Thursday, March 21st at noon and the winner will be announced on Friday!

Governor Kathy Hochul announced earlier this month that funding is now available for electric school bus charging infrastructure under the historic $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and through the New York School Bus Incentive Program. The announcement supports the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 85 percent by 2050 and New York State’s requirements that all school buses in New York State be zero-emission by 2035.

Learn more: State Incentive Program Makes Charging Infrastructure and Electric Upgrades for Clean Buses More Affordable for Public Schools

Presenting our Portrait of a Learner! Our vision encompasses vital skills and dispositions that we want all learners to develop:

• Key Skills: Communication • Executive functioning • Creativity • Critical thinking
• Key Dispositions: Curiosity • Perseverance • Socio-cultural competence • Civic mindedness

Beyond academics, we're committed to equipping students with skills for success in a changing world. Read more in our recent message about our Portrait of a Learner.

We are excited to announce the lineup for the annual Sleepy Hollow Jazz Festival, a celebration of music and talent that has been a beloved tradition for over 15 years. This year promises to be as exceptional as ever, with top-notch musicians collaborating with our dedicated students for an unforgettable evening of jazz.

Event Details:

• 🗓 Date: April 12
• ⏰ Time: 7:00 p.m.
• 📍 Location: Kusel Auditorium, Sleepy Hollow Middle/High School

🎓 Date change alert: 🗓️

Our Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony will be Friday, June 21 at 9:00 a.m. Please check Mr. Holland's message for more details.

Join PTA's Eco Club at Morse for 8 after-school sessions starting May 1, 2024. During eco-club meetings, children will work on various projects in nature, explore their relationship to the natural world, and explore ways that they can be environmental stewards. Our focused projects for this season will be tending to the front flower garden beds and creating an edible garden. Limited spots available.

• Day/Time: Wednesdays after school until 4:00 p.m.
• Pick up: 4:00 p.m. school playground

Stay tuned for more information on how to sign up.

The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns are committed to providing a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors. In the event of an emergency, it is important for parents and guardians to be familiar with the way the District prevents and manages emergencies.

For this reason, I would like to direct you to the safety and security guides found on our website: TUFSD Safety & Security

These guides outline key information and terms that are helpful to know in the event of an emergency situation.

Ensuring the safety of our students is our top priority, especially during drop-off times when traffic can be hectic. We kindly request your cooperation in adhering to the following guidelines to maintain a safe environment for everyone:

• Use Designated Drop-Off Spots: Please refrain from dropping off your children in the middle of the street. Utilize the designated drop-off areas to ensure a smooth and safe process.

• Observe Traffic Rules: Always follow traffic signs and instructions from school staff or crossing guards. This includes obeying speed limits and parking regulations.

• Be Patient and Courteous: Traffic congestion during drop-off periods can be challenging. Please remain patient and courteous to other drivers and pedestrians.

Your cooperation in following these guidelines is greatly appreciated. By working together, we can create a safer environment for all students. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

As part of our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for all members of our community, we would like to update you on an additional measure we have in place for our community. In September, our Board Trustees passed an important resolution. The School Boards Secure Storage Notification Resolution for States with Secure Storage Laws advocate that adults securely store their firearms where a child 16 years old or younger lives in or visit the home.

As shared by besmartforkids.org, gun violence is the leading cause of death for kids in the US. The best way to be sure your kids can’t access firearms is to store them securely. Please note these helpful tips that they offer below.

• S Secure all guns in your home and vehicles.
• M Model responsible behavior around guns.
• A Ask about unsecured guns in other homes and vehicles.
• R Recognize the role of guns in suicide.
• T Tell your friends and neighbors to be SMART.

Please click here to view our full resolution adopted by our Board Trustees. Over the course of the remainder of the school year, we will continue to share information with families and staff.

The safety of our students and staff members remains one of our top priorities and we will continue to take important steps such as this one to create a safe and secure environment for our entire community.

Please view these resources for how to talk to your child about Gun Safety: English & Spanish

Morse is partnering with NY Life to bring a financial literacy workshop to families on Tuesday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. Families will learn more about how to build a strong financial foundation and explore the basics of financial security, including managing debt, growing savings, and safeguarding against risk and unexpected events. The workshop will be presented in Spanish and English. Childcare and refreshments will be available.

Join us as we celebrate Kindness and Inclusion Month this March (and beyond!), where we focus on fostering a culture of acceptance and empathy within our school district. This initiative is vital as it promotes understanding, respect, and support for all individuals, regardless of their differences.

• 🧦 March 21: Wear "crazy socks" to support Down Syndrome Awareness Day.
• 🌈 April 2: Sport tie-dye to show acceptance on World Autism Awareness Day.
• 🎨 Fridays in April: Enjoy Tie-Dye Fridays for National Autism Acceptance Month.

It's time to dig out those spring and summer clothing donations!

Please refer to our clothing donation guidelines before bringing your goods to us. Remember, if you wouldn't give it to a friend, please don't give it to Community Wardrobe.

We accept clothing, shoes, and accessories for the whole family.

At this moment we are in need of:

❤️ Costume jewelry

❤️ Bras

❤️ Sleepy Hollow (Horseman) spirit wear

❤️ Reading glasses

❤️ Handbags and purses

❤️ New socks and toiletry kits, available for purchase from our Amazon wish list

❤️ Casual and fancy dresses and skirts for women and girls; these are popular and go quickly

Bring items on the dates and times listed below and on our donations page. Please do not leave donations outside the shop, doing so will jeopardize our tenancy.

SPRING CLOTHING DONATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED AT 222 NORTH WASHINGTON STREET:

• Tuesday - March 19 & April 2 — 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Wednesday - March 20 & April 3 — 10:30 a.m.-12:30p.m.
  
• Thursday - March 21 & April 4 — 5 p.m.-7p.m.

Attention all Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown students!!!!

The Sleepy Hollow Police Department, in conjunction with the Tarrytown Police Department and the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns is excited to announce that we will be hosting a Youth Leadership Academy this summer for students ages 10 to 13 years old! There will be NO COST for this camp.

For more information, contact SRO Bencosme at SBencosme@sleepyhollowny.org. If interested send a DM or message to our PBA page.

Save the Date for the Spring Gala hosted by the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns! Mark your calendar: this event will be April 27, 2024 at the Tarrytown House Estate. Stay tuned for more details!

For food support visit one of our local food pantries.

Check out past editions of Dr. Sanchez's newsletter on our Superintendent page.

If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe here to receive regular updates.
Please note that parents are automatically enrolled.