Welcome Back to School 2024!
August 28, 2024Dear Students, Parents, and Staff,
As we embark on the 2024 school year, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome back to our school community. I trust that your summer was both restful and enjoyable, and that you are as excited as I am about the new opportunities and experiences that lie ahead.
This year marks the beginning of a new chapter in learning and growth. Our schools are abuzz with energy, and our dedicated educators are prepared to provide a supportive and inspiring environment for all students. We have diligently worked to enhance our programs and resources to ensure every student has the tools they need to thrive.
On August 26, the Southern Cayuga Central School District Board of Education approved a merger with Lansing Central Schools for the wrestling program for the 2024-2025 school year. This merger is pending approval from the Lansing Central School District Board of Education and Section 4 Athletics. We are optimistic about offering this opportunity to our students for the upcoming winter season. Additionally, the board has established an ad hoc merged sports committee to explore potential future collaborations.
The Southern Cayuga Central School District Board of Education approved a recommendation from the Southern Cayuga CSD Mascot Committee to conduct a community vote on the top two proposed replacements for the Chiefs mascot. The Mascot Committee, which convened on May 30, 2024, included 20 members representing students, coaches, parents, and community members. After careful consideration, the committee identified the Knights and the Falcons as the top two mascot options. The Board has established an ad hoc committee to oversee the planning and execution of the public vote. Further details will be provided in the district’s newsletter this fall.
Southern Cayuga received final approval for the roof replacement project from the NYS Department of Education last week. While the timing is less than optimal, the pace of the project will be quick. The overall roof project is approximately 140,000 square feet, of which 99% is simply the application of a new roof membrane over the existing one. Noise distractions and smells should be minimal and will be monitored by an onsite health and safety officer.
The roofing work on the auditorium and gymnasium is expected to be completed by the end of this week, which will expedite the removal of the large crane from the campus. The next phase of the project will address the roof of the grade 3-6 classrooms, art rooms, high school library, middle school, and science wing (totaling 36 rooms), with a target completion date of September 18. Subsequent work will continue through the remaining three sections, with this portion of the project slated for completion by mid-October.
In closing, I encourage each of you to embrace the opportunities this school year presents. Whether you are returning or joining us for the first time, please know that we are here to support you every step of the way. Let’s collaborate to make this year both rewarding and memorable.
Please note that the first day of school for students in grades 1-12 will be September 4. Our youngest learners in grades UPK and Kindergarten will begin their school year on September 5. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our school community. Here’s to a fantastic start to the school year!
Warm regards,
Patrick Jensen
SCCS
