The Clarkstown Connection
September 2024
A Message from the Superintendent
Dear Clarkstown Central School District Families and Staff,
What a great start to the 2024-25 academic year! I have had the pleasure to visit classrooms, engage with students and faculty and attend school gatherings during the last few weeks. I would like to thank our dedicated educators, support staff and families for creating an environment of learning, growth and community that is truly inspiring.
To that end, student-athletes at Clarkstown high schools North and South closed out the month with a visit to MetLife Stadium on Wednesday for the first Section One and InSideOut Initiative’s Student Leadership Conference. They took part in exercises that focused on the importance of leadership, character and empathy in athletics – lessons they can apply throughout the school year and beyond.
During October, the District will participate in Cybersecurity Awareness Month and continue to promote good digital citizenship among students. By encouraging a culture of digital security and providing the necessary tools to make informed decisions, we empower learners to confidently navigate the virtual world and prepare them to be more future ready.
As a reminder, the District's latest ThoughtExchange closes on Monday, September 30 at 11:59pm. Thank you to those who have already submitted questions regarding the upcoming 2024 Bond Referendum. If you have not done so already, please click here to access the survey. Every vote counts, and we want to ensure that you have the necessary information to make an informed decision on Tuesday, October 8.
Now, let’s take a look at some more memorable moments and accomplishments from September.
Sincerely,
Marc P. Baiocco, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Clarkstown Central School District
Several students at Clarkstown high schools North and South were recognized for significant achievements over the last few weeks. From being named semifinalists and commended students in the 2025 National Merit® Scholarship Program to receiving College Board National Recognition Program awards to being selected for the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Winter Conference, these awards highlight the many ways our learners contribute to CCSD's legacy of excellence.
The Birchwood School held its annual observance of Constitution Day (September 17) with a special assembly led by Town Supervisor George Hoehmann. Following the discussion about the United States’ founding document, students walked through an art exhibit that brought the principles of “We the People” to life.
Hispanic Heritage Month, annually observed from September 15 to October 15, serves to recognize Hispanic Americans' contributions to the history, culture and achievements of our nation. Through storytelling at Bardonia Elementary School or an art lesson at Link Elementary School, these global competence activities ensure students learn more about other cultures in our diverse world — a key aspect of the District's future ready goals. Stay tuned to see how else our schools pay tribute throughout October!
CCSD hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Gabe's Greenhouse at Felix Festa Middle School. A joint effort between the Grade 7 Student Council, Beautification Committee and countless other integral partners, the space offers the school community a special place to come together, learn and reflect.
During National Arts in Education Week (September 9-13), we highlighted the arts' impact on creativity, critical thinking and cultural understanding with lessons at Clarkstown High School North and Bardonia and New City elementary schools. An International Dot Day (September 15) activity at Woodglen Elementary School, which emphasized the value in encouraging artistic talents, helped us close out our celebrations.
2024 Bond Referendum Vote: Tuesday, October 8
Want to learn more? Scan the QR code or visit our website at ccsd.edu/bond, view the related playlist on YouTube and follow along on social media using #CCSDbond. Still have questions? Staff, students, parents/guardians and community members are encouraged to submit them via the District's ThoughtExchange. Don't wait! The survey closes on Monday, September 30 at 11:59pm.
Please come out and vote on Tuesday, October 8 from 7am-9pm! See below for polling locations.
District 1
Street Community Center
31 Zukor Road, New City
District 2
Congers Community Center (Upper Level)
8 Gilchrest Road, Congers
District 3
Chestnut Grove Administration Center
62 Old Middletown Road, New City
District 4
Clarkstown Reformed Church
107 Strawtown Road, West Nyack
(note location change)
