Notes from Principal Simmons: Weekend Update April 23rd

Let's talk about DISMISSAL!

Our dismissal procedure is "under construction" and I'm requesting your patience as we work out the changes. On Monday, April 26, Stonehedge buses may be delayed due to additional runs at West Genny Middle School. So, please don't worry if your child is a few minutes later than usual. The changes at West Genny Middle School will also impact our car traffic. Please stick to your designated pick up time as early arrivers will add to the congestion. If you need to pick your child up between 1:30 and 2:00, please plan for extra traffic and park in the lot closest to the District Office and walk to the offices. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call the office 315-463-4633. Thank you for your understanding and patience. I am happy to do our part to support students returning full time to West Genesee Middle School.

Do you know anyone who is coming to Kindergarten next year?

If so, they really need to register NOW!!!! Kindergarten registration numbers drive a lot of decisions about teacher assignments and class size. I'd like to be sure we have the most accurate count for Kindergarten in the 2021-2022 School Year. If you have a Kindergarten student, please be sure they are registered ASAP. (And, tell your friends!) The process is much easier than in past years-- Virtual Registration process to get started and schedule your meeting! Please click here to find all the pertinent information regarding this process! We look forward to welcoming our newest WILDCATS!

Please support our PTA!

Like so many organizations, the PTA has been impacted by the pandemic and we are in need of volunteers. If you have been an active member, you already know that the Stonehedge PTA is a great group of families and teachers. If you have not been involved, we encourage you to join and enjoy the benefits. Of course, the number-one reason to join the PTA is to make our school better for children, but there are advantages for the parent as well. Joining our PTA will strengthen your connection to our school. While we have a great school, we know that it is not yet perfect. By getting involved you become part of the solutions, helping make positive changes. Our PTA plays an important role in fundraising to provide beneficial supplies and resources for our classes. Parenting is not easy. It helps to share ideas, concerns and experiences with other parents and educators in the community. PTA functions are opportunities to meet other parents and teachers, building rapport and discussing issues that are on your mind. By volunteering with your PTA, you gain valuable experiences. It’s an opportunity to put your skills and hobbies to good use for a good cause. If you would like more information or if you have any questions, please call the Blue office at 315-487-4633 or the Gold office at 315-487-4631.

Next Week:

Thursday, April 29 - Poem In Your Pocket Day

Thursday, April 29 - PoetrypalooZoom Open Mic Night - 6:30 pm - Zoom - email Deb Abbott - dabbott@westgenesee.org - for the Zoom link

Friday, April 30 - End of Kindergarten Registration

In the Near Future:

Wednesday, May 5 - BOE Meeting - 7:00 pm - WGHS Library and Stream

Important Information:

Next week is spirit week for West Genesee! See the flyer below for details about each fun day!

West Genesee Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council

As you may have read in the Superintendent’s Message from February 26th, there is an opportunity for all members of our community to come together as members of the West Genesee Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council. The council recognizes the need to listen to the voices, experiences, and perspectives of people from diverse backgrounds in order to advance the council's mission and help all members of our community achieve success. This council is open to all members of our community. If you are interested in joining, please fill out this Google form and a member of the team will contact you directly.

Free National Park Service Passes

Every fourth grade student is eligible to receive a FREE National Park Service's (NPS) Every- Kid- in-a Park pass. NYS will accept this pass for free vehicle entry admission (with the fourth grader present) for all of their State Parks in 2021. Therefore, the student and anyone in the vehicle will have free entry. This pass is also accepted at state historic sites for the fourth grade student and up to three adults. To read more about the program you may do so at this link: https://parks.ny.gov/environment/connect-kids.aspx

Positivity Project: Purpose People who possess a sense of purpose believe that they were put on earth for a reason. That reason can have all kinds of variety. It could be to create a unique invention, to bring joy through art or music, or to raise their children to become good people. These people have a true calling. You have beliefs about the meaning of life and your life’s purpose. You seek to be part of something greater than yourself.

Around School: Earlier this week, Mrs. Tscherjawski had the opportunity to actually leave the office and see the art work around school. She was amazed at the beauty and we realized "she really needs to get out more!" The building is full of beautiful displays and we can't wait until we are able to host family activities in person again!

Mrs. Lawrence's class made beautiful kites