If you like something a CCSD staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to School Superintendent Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben and to the Board of Education President Melissa Orser.
Community members can sign up for our Carmel Central School District News group through ParentSquare to stay up-to-date on district news and events. You will receive weekly e-newsletters as well as other updates with important district information. Current parents and staff are automatically subscribed to receive e-newsletters.
As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety, communication and equity districtwide, Carmel Central School District has launched a new communication tool, Anonymous Alerts®. This tool enables students or parents to report urgent information to school officials quickly, easily and anonymously across all our school campuses.
Dear Carmel Community,
I want to reassure you that the safety and security of your children and our entire school community is our highest priority. In the Carmel Central School District, we are dedicated to creating a safe environment where every student can learn. While events like the tragic school shooting in Georgia are deeply unsettling, I want you to know that we constantly take proactive measures to protect our schools.
The Carmel Schools utilize a nationally recognized, evidence-based threat assessment model developed with the help of our safety consultants, Altaris Consulting Group. This model brings together a team of administrators, mental health professionals, law enforcement, and other key personnel to evaluate and address potential threats. Early detection and prevention are crucial, and we created an Anonymous Alert system so students, staff, and families can report any concerns immediately. Every reported threat is investigated thoroughly and with the utmost care.
The Safety and Security Capital Project that the community endorsed this spring has helped us strengthen our buildings and ensure that we know who is in them. We are in the process of installing swipe key access on all doors and intruder-resistant security film on all ground level windows and doors. We have also implemented a visitor management system in each school for identification checks against databases.
But technology alone is not enough, that is why we focus on training and preparing our staff to respond effectively in any situation. Each school in the district has a detailed emergency plan and conducts training drills regularly to focus on prevention and response. Local law enforcement partners with us during these drills to ensure a coordinated and swift response in emergencies.
Maintaining a safe learning environment requires constant evaluation and improvement. Beginning at our next meeting, the Board of Education will review our reunification plan. That is one of the Board’s safety goals for the year. As things change, we review and update our protocols to make sure they align with best practices in school safety.
These are challenging times, but we remain dedicated to transparency and collaboration with our families. We know that prevention is key. To that end, we believe in early intervention, multidisciplinary threat assessment teams and creating a school culture that encourages students and staff to report concerns. In the Carmel Central School District, our focus on safety is an essential part of both our daily operations and our long-term planning.
Sincerely,
Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben
Dear Carmel Community,
Welcome to the 2024-25 school year!
Whether your child just took their first kindergarten bus ride, walked the halls of the middle school for the first time or is a senior who knows the ropes at Carmel High School, there is so much to look forward to.
As your new Superintendent of Schools, I am beyond excited about all we can accomplish together. I look forward to connecting with you and I encourage you to reach out. If you like something a staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to me and to the Board of Education President Melissa Orser. We feel so strongly about listening to you that the Board adopted an open communication policy – Policy 1400 – at the last meeting.
I also hope to see many of you at a Meet and Greet on September 11 at 6 p.m. at Carmel High School Library. Refreshments will be served and children are invited.
In addition, the Board recently adopted a new Code of Conduct, which follows state regulations will hold everyone in the Carmel Central School District -- including students, families and staff -- to one standard of conduct. We will talk about this more in the coming weeks and months, but I wanted you to have a chance to read the document and discuss it with your children. I have scheduled a town hall meeting about Restorative Practices, which are the foundation of the Code of Conduct, for September 17 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Matthew Paterson Elementary School Cafeteria. Please email me at emeehan@carmelschools.org to participate so that I can plan for refreshments and space.
We have a lot to accomplish in the 2024-25 school year, and I cannot wait to get started.
Sincerely,
Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben
Superintendent of Schools
As your Superintendent of Schools, I am excited to lead the Carmel Central School District into the future to continue and build on the proud tradition of cultivating opportunities. The leadership transition of a new superintendent represents a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth and
development. I have put together this First 100 Days Plan to share with you how I will transition into the district.
Sincerely,
Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben
It is my pleasure to officially introduce myself to the Carmel Central School Community. I consider it a true privilege to have been appointed your new Superintendent of Schools and to have taken the oath of office last evening during the district’s reorganization meeting.
The Carmel Central School District has earned a reputation for academic excellence. The boundless opportunities offered beyond the classroom are exemplary and provide enriching learning experiences for students at all levels. As an educator for 32 years, I wholeheartedly value the programs and services Carmel already has in place, and I am committed to building upon them to ensure that current and future students have opportunities to explore their interests and find their true passions.
In addition to the robust educational program, it was the level of community involvement that drew me to this district. I witnessed this sense of pride as I underwent the interview process and have experienced it firsthand over the past few days, as each of the faculty members, parents, students, and residents I have met have been extremely welcoming and helpful. Please know that it is my intent to make every effort to foster and cultivate this practice to ensure the continued success of our students, schools, and community.
While serving as your Superintendent of Schools, I plan to be accessible to all stakeholders and maintain an open door for communication. I encourage and welcome any questions, comments, or concerns you have about our schools and can be reached directly at emeehan@carmelschools.org or 845-878-2094 ext. 200.
It is an exciting time for the Carmel Central School District, and I am looking forward to the year ahead. Please accept my best wishes for a happy and healthy summer.
Sincerely,
Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben
Dear Carmel Community,
It is not every day that we get to share news about something that is going to save families in the Carmel Central School District a lot of money. So, we are very excited to tell you that, starting December 1, 2023 school breakfast and lunch will be free for all students in all our schools.
This program, which is funded by a New York State Education Department grant, will save families $1,130 per child per year. Families with two children will save $2,260 per year. Three-child families will save $3,390 per year, and so on. These savings are based on a grant that allows Carmel schools to provide students with a free breakfast and lunch every school day through June 2027.
Additional meals may be purchased at the following prices: breakfast at the elementary schools, $1.50; breakfast at the middle and high schools, $2.00; lunch at the Elementary School, $3.35; lunch at the middle and high Schools, $3.65. There is still an additional cost to purchase à la carte items such as snacks, bottled water, extra portions and secondary beverages.
It is important to note that the no-cost breakfast and lunch program is not retroactive. Any negative debt incurred prior to December 1, 2023, will remain on the student’s account until payment is received.
Previously, only certain families qualified for free meals through New York State. I want to thank Director of School Food Services Patrick Rodia and his assistant, Christine Foltmer, for ensuring that every child who was previously eligible for free meals was enrolled. Their efforts made our entire school district qualify under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and receive the funding granted by the New York State Education Department. Now, what was once limited to a few students is available to all.
Please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below. If you have any questions, please contact the Food Services Department at: carmelfoodservices@carmelschools.org
Sincerely,
Joseph McGrath
Interim Superintendent of Schools
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)?
A: The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a funding option under the National School Lunch Act that allows eligible schools to provide free meals to all students.
Q: Do I need to fill out an application for my child to receive meals at no cost?
A: No, families do not need to fill out an application for their child to gain eligibility for breakfast and lunch at no cost.
Q: What does CEP cover for my child?
A: With the CEP designation, all Carmel Central School District (CCSD) enrolled students can receive one healthy breakfast and one nutritious lunch per school day.
Q: I am new to the District and/or the Food Services program - what does a healthy lunch entail for my child? What about breakfast?
A: A healthy lunch always consists of five components: a protein, grain, fruit, vegetable, and milk. To be considered a full meal, children must choose at least three of these components, including either a fruit or vegetable. A full breakfast consists of four components: two grains (main entree), one cup of fruit/juice or a vegetable, one cup of milk. Students must choose three of the four components offered with one of those components being a fruit/juice or vegetable.
Q: Can my child still purchase snacks and à la carte items? What about a second breakfast or lunch?
A: Yes, snacks and à la carte items (including milk) are available. However, students will need cash or funds in their prepaid accounts to make these purchases. Also, only the first breakfast and first lunch of the day are free. A student would need cash or funds in their prepaid accounts to pay for a second breakfast or lunch.
Q: How can I add funds to my child’s account to make those types of purchases?
A: You can add funds by sending a check or cash in with your child or virtually through MySchoolBucks, an online school meal payment system. To avoid the fee, students can always pay with cash for their purchase. In addition, parents may send in a check or cash to be added to the student’s prepaid account.
Q: What if I already have money in my child's account for meals? Can I get it back?
A: Parents can either request a refund from the Food Services Department or leave the funds in their student’s account for à la carte items or snacks. Please send an email to carmelfoodservices@carmelschools.org to request a refund. Please include the first name, last name, and ID # of the student. Also, include parent/guardian name and address where the reimbursement check should be mailed. Please note that depending on the volume of requests, refunds may take up to 45 days to process. If there is an automatic replenishment of funds set up on your student's MySchoolBucks account, please discontinue this feature before requesting meal account reimbursement.
Q: What if there is negative debt left on my child’s account?
A: Free breakfasts and lunches are not retroactive, and any negative debt incurred prior to December 1, 2023, will remain in the student’s account until payment is received.
Q: What if my child brings their own lunch and just wants some milk or a piece of fruit?
According to State guidelines, to access the free meal benefit, a child must take what counts as a full meal, which means choosing at least three of the five components (including a fruit or vegetable) that make up the meal. Food Services staff will guide your child in understanding what constitutes a full meal.
Q: Does funding for school meals come out of my school taxes?
A: No, meals and food at schools are not funded by your school tax dollars. Instead, the funding comes from Federal and State taxes.
October 16, 2023
Dear Carmel Community,
We are excited to announce two evening events for the staff and community called “Unity in our Community” Participants will have the opportunity to attend two sessions, exploring and building on shared experiences working toward a vision of unity for the community. These events will be held at Carmel High School Gymnasium at 6:30 PM on October 25th and November 2, 2023. I hope that you will be able to join us as we stand together in our efforts to stand against hate.
October 25 Unity in our Community - led by Matt Latimer Lead Conciliation Specialist, U.S. Department of Justice, Community Relations Service.
Carmel High School Gymnasium at 6:30 PM
A follow up to the Dialog on Race
This interactive session will provide informational sessions on the district’s progress and offer attendees the ability to craft action steps to build on prior work.
November 2, 2023, Unity in our Community - led by Steve Goldberg, Education Specialist, Holocaust and Human Rights Center.
Carmel High School Gymnasium at 6:30 PM
Exploring the Symbols and Language of Hate
A symbol is a concept that expresses, represents, stands for or suggests an idea, quality, belief, action or material object. Symbols can be neutral or positive. But symbols can also become negative through association. Are symbols — both verbal and nonverbal — protected by the First Amendment? This interactive presentation will explore the language and symbols of hate, with specific emphasis on the swastika. Strategies on how to work with students on this challenging topic will be discussed.
Please let us know if you are coming by completing this form: https://forms.office.com/r/U87aXTUk6u
Sincerely,
Joseph McGrath
Interim Superintendent of Schools
November 2, 2023
Dear Carmel Community,
|
These days, school districts are facing difficult issues nationally. Students react to reports on the news and conversations at the dinner table and, before you know it, national and world events spill over into our hallways. As you have seen from our previous communications, the Carmel Central School District has not been immune to the issues we see on the nightly news. We have notified you about a number of incidents of swastikas being drawn on school property. We send those notices because we do not want to normalize antisemitism or make hate speech of any form acceptable in our schools. We value the safety of every student in our schools, regardless of background, so we call out hate incidents in real time. Tonight, we will take an academic look at these symbols, their history and their meaning. Food will be served. Last week, we held the first Unity in Our Community event and looked at the progress our district has made in the past few months and what more we can do to create a school culture where everyone feels valued. Tonight Thursday, November 2, our second Unity in Our Community event -- Exploring the Symbols and Language of Hate – will be held at Carmel High School gym at 6:30 p.m. It will be led by Steve Goldberg, Director of Education at the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center in White Plains, who will address the question of whether symbols are protected by the First Amendment. “The uptick in recent years in racism, antisemitism and homophobia have our attention,” Goldberg said. “This presentation will explore the language and symbols of hate, with specific emphasis on the power of words and the swastika and the noose.” In addition to the meetings, we have also put together a list of resources to help families talk with their children about difficult subjects, including how to combat antisemitism, violence in the news, explaining the news to kids, and about being good a digital citizen in a diverse community. I hope to see you at tonight’s event. |
| Sincerely,Joseph McGrathInterim Superintendent of Schools |
Dear Carmel Parents and Community,
It has come to my attention that there was a drawing of a swastika found on a table leg in a Carmel High School classroom today. We do not know how long this drawing was there. It is possible it is old but that, following last month's antisemitic vandalism on the CHS tennis court, students have a renewed sensitivity to such acts of discrimination. It is also possible that this swastika was only recently drawn. Either way, we applaud the students who brought this to their teacher's attention.
We are investigating this incident. These acts have serious consequences involving law enforcement, as demonstrated a few weeks ago.
We have reached out to the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center in White Plains and, in the next few weeks, we will be holding workshops at the secondary level to combat antisemitism. There is no room for hate speech or action anywhere in our district. We are committed to fostering a a safe and protective learning environment for all.
I want to urge anyone with information about this offensive drawing to let school officials know. Students or parents who have concerns are invited to reach out to their building leadership or guidance counselors for assistance.
Sincerely,
Joseph McGrath
Interim Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community,
Welcome to the 2023-24 school year. It’s going to be great because with effort and enthusiasm, we will make it so. We are thrilled to welcome the students back to school for an exciting year of learning, growth and community spirit.
Our teachers, staff and administrators have been hard at work finding new ways to inspire young minds. Their goal is to help all students feel supported, respected and motivated to reach their full potential. We know that kindness is contagious, and we will continue to spread it around showing every student how much we value them.
This year we will be offering many new opportunities for students, including a new reading program based on the Science of Reading. It will emphasize skills that help children become proficient readers.
Thank you for being the kind of community that works together to support the schools. I encourage you all to get involved and be actively engaged in the education of our students. A culture of unity is what makes our community.
As part of our commitment to providing support to the community we also wanted to make sure you knew about this: the NYS Comptroller is returning lost money to New Yorkers. Check the Comptroller’s website to see if you are owed unclaimed money. It is a reasonably quick process that could end with you getting a check in the mail.
I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Carmel Central School District this fall and wish you all a remarkable and rewarding school year ahead.
Best regards,
Joe McGrath
Interim Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community,
I hope this letter finds you wrapped in the embrace of joy and anticipation as we prepare to embark on yet another remarkable chapter in our educational journey together. The summer sun may have been shining, but it pales in comparison to the radiance that each of your children bring back to our halls as we prepare to welcome the laughter, learning, and shared experiences once more.
Our school has missed the cheerful hum of conversations, the echo of footsteps, and the sweet melodies of youthful enthusiasm! We are counting down the days to the heartwarming symphony that only our community can compose.
This year we have the distinct pleasure of introducing not just one, not two, but three extraordinary individuals who have chosen to dance their way into our hearts as our new principals. Ms. Darling at MPES, Dr. Neufville and GFMS and Mr. Piazza at CHS are joining our existing amazing principal team with Mr. Brown at KPS and Mr. Setaro at KES. We also are pleased that Mr. Svarczkopf has joined our ranks as interim Director of Technology. Additionally, we are welcoming several new teachers and other staff members who are excited to support and nurture our wonderful students.
Can you feel the excitement in the air? These remarkable educators come bearing not just wisdom and experience, but an abundance of warmth, compassion, and the promise of forging connections that will leave an indelible mark on our students' lives.
School calendars will be sent out on Monday and should be arriving in your mailboxes any day. In additional to important dates, the calendar has lots of useful information including a referral chart and other information on how to have your concerns addressed if you have the need.
You will be receiving more correspondence from our principals and our staff very shortly with information on the return to school, but I wanted to personally wish you a fantastic school year.
With warm regards,
Joe McGrath
Interim Superintendent
Carmel High School has no shortage of spirit.
Spirit Week started with a “Sleeping Beauties” Pajama Day and went on to celebrate something Disney-themed every day.
By the time the Pep Rally started on Friday, September 27, the students were pumped.
Senior Class President Jake Patino and Student Body President Jorja Tompuri led the event, tossing Mickey Mouse headbands to the crowd that filled the bleachers in the school gymnasium.
The Varsity Cheerleaders, Dance Team and Rock club performed to enthusiastic applause.
“We have a little bit of a challenge for you,” Patino said. “Can you guess who the masked teacher is?”
Then two mysterious teachers, in Mike and Sulley costumes from the movie “Monsters,” sang a karaoke version of “Love is an Open Door,” from the movie “Frozen.”
But once they started singing, students quickly identified Social Studies Teacher David Zupan and Music Teacher Bryan Lynch.
The pep rally tradition includes the Homecoming Video made by students in Tim Raney’s Video Production III class and Carmel Film Club. The Disney-themed video had the audience laughing out loud.
To celebrate Constitution Day on September 17, the students in Andrea Shaver’s second grade class came up with a constitution for their classroom.
“Teaching the Constitution is part of the district curriculum,” said Shaver, who teaches at Kent Primary School. “It makes sense for me at the beginning of the year to link our class rules with it. We talk so much about being good citizens and about how to take care of one another.”
To introduce the subject, Shaver read “We the Kids” by David Catrow, a picture book that lays out the Preamble to the Constitution in language children can understand. It even includes a glossary that explains the words in the Preamble.
The book is filled with funny illustrations that make the children want to read it again and again and, as they do, they learn the ideals that America was founded upon.
Now that the first couple of weeks of the school year are over, the games can begin. The games in physical education class at Matthew Paterson Elementary School, that is.
“Soccer is our first intro to a sport activity,” said Physical Education Teacher Lisa Palmieri as she led groups of second graders around the school field. “The first weeks are about learning routines such as how to behave in the gym and how to act outside. Now they are learning soccer skills like passing, dribbling, shooting – the basics.”
Playing school sports teaches all of Carmel’s Six Cs -- Critical Thinking, Citizenship, Compassion, Creativity, Collaboration and Communication.
Darwin, a 7-year-old, passed an orange soccer ball to his classmate Jackson.
“I do play soccer all the time,” Darwin said. “I asked my mom if she could take me to soccer practice and she said she would.”
In the rush and excitement of a middle school day, the school library offers an oasis of relaxation.
Seventh graders Francis and Nicholas took advantage of the calm in the George Fischer Middle School library to work on their chess game.
“I just started chess a week ago, but I really like it,” Nicholas said.
“I’ve played for a while now but I’m trying to get better,” Francis said.
During their independent study classes, students at the middle school often stop by the library to catch up on schoolwork, check out books to read, play puzzles or just enjoy a few minutes of downtime, Library Media Specialist Catherine Incledon said. It’s Incledon’s first year teaching in the Carmel Central School District and she can’t believe how lucky she got.
“This is a really great library,” she said. “It’s a beautiful space.”
If you happen to swing by Kent Elementary School this year, do not be surprised if Principal John Fratto calls out to greet you. Fratto, who was named principal of the elementary school in July, says the best part of being in a school building is talking with students, teachers and families.
“I always lead with relationships,” Fratto said. “It is my number one trait. Walking around the building, saying hi to the students and the staff, to me that is a shot of life for the day.”
Getting to know students allows Fratto to identify their strengths and help them succeed, even if they make mistakes.
An educator for 12 years, Fratto started his career teaching social studies at Beacon High School but soon realized he wanted to be an administrator.
“I loved teaching, but I was always taking the lead, so I thought ‘Why not go into administration?’” Fratto said. “My goal was to be a principal and to have the chance to implement my own vision in a school. I feel so lucky that this opportunity allowed me to stay in Carmel. The kids in this district are impressive and there is a lot of great community involvement.”
When he is not providing leadership and support for the students at Kent Primary School, Principal Vincent Fino might be found running on one of the bike trails around town. Fino, who took over as principal of the primary school on July 1, logs 35 to 40 miles a week.
“It helps me unwind at the end of the day,” Fino said. “I like to be outdoors in the fresh air and Carmel is so beautiful.”
Fino hit the ground running in his new position, too. He is already setting up ways to support young students in reading and math and is busy planning creative strategies to highlight the positive behaviors that Kent Primary students display every day.
“I believe in positive behavioral interventions,” Fino said. “We want to highlight students when they are exemplifying good character and kindness toward others.”
Come October, Chris DeChent will have worked in the Carmel Schools for 20 years. But that anniversary does not even include the time he worked in the district before graduating from Carmel High School in 2004.
DeChent, the Information Systems Technician, started helping out with district technology when he was in Carmel High School. By tenth grade he had a summer internship in the IT department and, later, an after-school job.
“In high school I was always the student ready to jump in and help the teacher if the computer had a problem or the projector wasn’t working,” DeChent said. “I enjoyed building computers, understanding how they worked, and figuring out how to repair them. My name became known to the IT department and they let me help out. I started here full time after graduation.”
DeChent credits his teachers with encouraging his interests and talents.
We unequivocally denounce antisemitism in all of its forms and expressions.
The Carmel Central School District serves a diverse population. We embrace that diversity and are focused on shaping the next generation of successful Carmel graduates who exemplify the Carmel 6 Cs (Citizenship, Compassion, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication). Through education, our students are taught to engage in civil and respectful discourse. Our mission is to educate the whole student through partnerships to become lifelong learners in an ever-changing world.
New principals have been hired this summer at Kent Primary School and Kent Elementary School.
Vincent Fino, who served as Assistant Principal at Carmel High School is the new principal at Kent Primary School. He replaces Dan Brown, who retired at the end of the school year.
At Kent Elementary School, new Principal John Fratto is replacing Michael Setaro, who took a position at Southern Westchester BOCES. Mr. Fratto also served as an Assistant Principal at Carmel High School.
With such great leadership in place, Kent Elementary and Kent Primary will be well prepared for a great 2024-25 school year.
On July 1, Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D. will take over as the Carmel Central School District's new Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Fairben, who brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of educational leadership and a deep commitment to student success, was appointed by the Board of Education in February.
Dr. Fairben has been an educator for 32 years. She has taught at elementary, middle and high school as well as college-level courses for aspiring educators at SUNY Brockport, St. John Fisher, and Hobart and William Smith colleges. She has held various leadership roles at both the building and district level including Assistant Principal, Principal, Director of Pupil Personnel Services and Special Programs, Superintendent of the NYS School for the Blind, Director of P16, Assistant Superintendent and most recently as an Associate Superintendent at the Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES. Throughout her career, Dr. Fairben has worked tirelessly to support all students and has expanded educational opportunities for students through collaboration, effective communication, and visionary leadership. Dr. Fairben brings with her decades of leadership experience in building strong relationships with her staff and community.
Almost 300 eighth graders graduated George Fischer Middle School on Tuesday to the sound of cheers and loud whoops from an auditorium full of family, friends, teachers and supporters.
"I have the privilege of being the principal of the best middle school in the state of New York," Principal Dr. Merica Neufville said before using an energy- boosting refrain the students have come to embrace. "Can I get a 'Whoop Whoop?'"
"Whoop Whoop," the students cried out.
Dr. Neufville continued her speech:
"You represent the new Carmel. You represent the tried-and-true Carmel," she said. "As you leave here and go to the high school, my wish for you is that you represent the don't-let-anything-stop-you Carmel."
Carmel High School’s 331 graduates enjoyed music, speeches and memories of their years together as they said goodbye Thursday to the Carmel Central School District.
“We began classes on Zoom and disguised ourselves under masks for some years,” Salutatorian Jennie Belle Aliaga said. “Further, we recall color day. The day most deserving of a bright blue sky was tainted by a deep orange hue. Thanks, Canada. All this to say these misfortunes ended up making our high school years a little more unique and memorable.”
Her advice to the class: “Don’t wait. The best time for action will always be now.”
Valedictorian Luke Walters used his speech to share the glory and highlight the accomplishments of others in the class of 2024. He encouraged all his fellow graduates to aim high.
“If we leave here today and we give it 100%, our chances of success, be it professional, economic or even spiritual, will soar,” Luke said. “If we find great mentors along the way, they will teach us and they will help us to take risks that put us in the best position for success and, if the fates allow us to be at the right place at the right time, perhaps some of us will someday change the world.”
George Fischer Middle School will hold two graduation ceremonies on Tuesday, June 25th. Each of the graduations will be livestreamed here.
Watch the 1:30 graduation here
Watch the 4 p.m. graduation here
To order a DVD of the ceremonies, download this form and send it to the listed address.
Third graders at Matthew Patterson Elementary School traveled around the world on Passport Day.
“I loved passport day this year,” said Damian, a third grader in Catherine DeToma’s class. “One of the things I liked was that our parents came. Another thing I liked was that it was so fun making my diorama. Also, it was so fun traveling from country to country.”
Parents, teachers and community members crowded into the hallways and classrooms that were decorated with flags from around the world.
“Passport Day is a day dedicated to celebrating cultural diversity and global awareness through the lens of different continents,” said third-grade teacher Michelle Belasco. “Each third-grade class immerses themselves in the study of a specific continent, researching countries, landmarks, and cultural aspects. The culmination of their efforts is showcased through dioramas and presentations, allowing students to share their newfound knowledge with families and caregivers.”
The sixth graders took deep breaths, closed their eyes and meditated on kind thoughts about a person close to them. Next came the hard part; they had to think kind thoughts about themselves.
“It’s easier to say good things to other people,” said Sara Baio, the mindfulness instructor and social and emotional learning coach at George Fischer Middle School. “But it’s important to send thoughts of happiness to yourself. We spend too much time being hard on ourselves.”
Baio runs a pilot program that teaches fifth and sixth graders self-awareness and strategies to regulate their emotions. She visits independent study classes once a week for 15-minute mini lessons and invites students to come to her classes during their recess if they choose.
Fourth graders at Kent Elementary School learned about the Revolutionary War by participating in a drill with tri-corner hats, muskets, marching and more. Colonial and Revolutionary history are part of the fourth grade curriculum and George Fischer Middle School Social Studies Teacher Keith Reilly and Carmel High School History Teacher Rob Buccheri came to the school to help bring the history to life for the youngsters. KES Fourth Grade Teacher Cathleen Rossetti organized the event and GFMS Reading Teacher Denise Santalis took the photos.
Fourth graders at Kent Primary School learned about the Revolutionary War by participating in a drill with tri-corner hats, muskets, marching and more. Colonial and Revolutionary history are part of the fourth grade curriculum and George Fischer Middle School Social Studies Teacher Keith Reilly and Carmel High School History Teacher Rob Buccheri came to the school to help the Kent Primary teachers bring the history to life for the youngsters. KES Fourth Grade Teacher Cathleen Rossetti organized the event and GFMS Reading Teacher Denise Santalis took the photos.
At the Carmel Science Research Symposium in May, seven seniors presented high-level research projects that ranged from topics like nicotine, to volcanoes, to the effect of noise pollution on songbirds.
But as the 30 science research students in grades ten through 12 displayed their projects to curious teachers, parents, administrators and friends, several mentioned all the non-scientific things they learned by joining the three-year program.
“It’s all about your own self-discipline,” said Halina White, a junior. “I think it really prepares you for adult life and college.”
Halina’s project this year was “Analyzing Awareness and Interest in Different Sustainability Methods in Putnam County.” Students can change projects from one year to the next or expand upon a project in successive years.
Junior Maia Thompson agreed that the science research program teaches independent learning.
“I really like the fact that the research is all student-led,” Maia said. “I got the opportunity to explore my own interests.”
Dr. Nicole Griffin, who has taught the science research program since 2015, said that helping students to become independent thinkers who follow their own interests is a foundation of the program.
“I was a student in science research when I went to school here,” said Griffin, a Carmel High School alum. “It was the same way back then.”
Carmel High School Social Studies Teacher Susan Tornatore will travel to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the prestigious Supreme Court Summer Institute.
Tornatore teaches senior Economics and Law, a required course at Carmel High School.
“The institute will enrich my understanding of how the SCOTUS operates, selects cases and makes decisions,” Tornatore said. “I am eager to learn how I can integrate recent Supreme Court decisions into our law curriculum in a way that is meaningful for our students. The activity I am looking forward to the most is being present for a live reading of a decision by the justices at the Supreme Court on June 13th.”
The Institute offers teachers the opportunity to study recent Supreme Court cases in detail and learn innovative teaching methods for conveying this information to students. Well-known Supreme Court lawyers, reporters, scholars, and educators will be among the speakers and instructors for the Institute. A recent evaluation of the Supreme Court Summer Institute found that, after the program, teachers who attended felt much more confident discussing controversial issues and Supreme Court cases in their classrooms, discussed Supreme Court cases and used interactive teaching strategies more frequently, and gained critical knowledge about the U.S. Supreme Court.
In the spirit of “One Carmel” Kent Primary School Principal Dan Brown sent home a survey this winter asking parents about their families’ heritage.
The survey was optional, of course, but almost 200 parents gladly answered.
“In America, most of us hail from somewhere else,” Principal Brown said. “Here at Kent Primary, we have a very diverse student body, and we want to celebrate that.”
When the results came in, Italy and Ireland were listed as parents’ homelands most often. A total of 71 parents (29 moms/42 dads) cited Italian as their heritage, while 42 parents (25 moms/17 dads) said their families traced their roots to Ireland. In all there were more than 60 countries – from Albania to Uzbekistan – represented.
After talking about their heritage, students throughout the school made flags of the country that their families emigrated from.
Art Teacher Sophie Bolla created a map with lines from countries across the globe all leading to Carmel.
The map now hangs in the front lobby for all to see.
Upcoming Board of Education Committee Meetings:
Special Education, Support & Wellness Committee, 10/8/24, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School Library Lab
Audit, Finance & Personnel Committee, 10/8/24, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School Science Room 201
Policy Committee, 10/10/24, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School Library Lab
Facilities & Transportation Committee, 10/22/24, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School Library Lab
The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the Carmel High School library. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. with an immediate entry into Executive Session. The public portion of the meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m.
Community members who wish to speak during the public comment section of the Board meeting are asked to sign up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form here: https://forms.office.com/r/SnQBCFWYy8
Board meetings will continue to be live streamed on this page. Committee meetings are open to the public.
If you like something a CCSD staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to School Superintendent Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben and to the Board of Education President Melissa Orser.
August 14, 2024
Dear Carmel Central School District Community,
After our board meeting on August 13, 2024, the board has carefully listened to and reflected on the sentiments expressed by some members of our community. Now, we need your help in moving forward.
We heard from many of you who felt unwelcome or unsafe at our board meetings. We want to make it clear that the board stands united in denouncing all forms of discrimination, prejudice, harassment, bullying, and hate. We are dedicated to supporting all of our community.
Our mission at Carmel Central School District is to educate the whole child in an environment free of bullying, harassment, and discrimination. We have received numerous letters, emails, and concerns brought to us at the podium, and we are committed to addressing them, as we have historically done, with our mission at the forefront.
We ask for the community’s collaboration in maintaining a respectful and inclusive atmosphere at our board meetings. The board needs to focus on the district’s important business with our new superintendent while adhering to the standard of conduct outlined in our Code of Conduct.
We ask for your adherence to our Code of Conduct as we strive to create a welcoming, affirming and productive environment for all members.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Respectfully,
Board of Education President Melissa Orser
Vice President Dawn Dall
Trustee John C. Curzio II
Trustee Jordi Douglas
Trustee Jason Paraskeva
Cc: Superintendent of Schools
Community members can sign up for our Carmel Central School District News group through ParentSquare to stay up-to-date on district news and events. You will receive weekly e-newsletters as well as other updates with important district information. Current parents and staff are automatically subscribed to receive e-newsletters.
Community members who wish to speak during the public comment portion of a Board of Education meeting are asked to sign-up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form or by contacting the District Clerk four (4) hours prior to the meeting at jstevens@carmelschools.org. The sign-up form will also be available at the meeting for anyone who wishes to speak and did not sign up in advance.
These individuals will be called upon during the scheduled public participation section on the agenda. To facilitate follow-up, please provide your name, telephone number, email address, and mailing address, as well as the topic of your comments. Speakers are limited to five (5) minutes each. No district employee or student may be commented upon or identified by name or situation.
As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety, communication and equity districtwide, Carmel Central School District has launched a new communication tool, Anonymous Alerts®. This tool enables students or parents to report urgent information to school officials quickly, easily and anonymously across all our school campuses.
Recordings of Board of Education meetings and presentations from those meetings are available to the public.
Rosh Hashanah
Schools Closed
BOE Committee Meeting(s)
Special Education, Support & Wellness - Library Lab
Audit, Finance & Personnel - Science Room 201
Board of Education Meeting
Public Participation will begin at 7:00 p.m.
