Schoharie Superintendent David Blanchard and Board of Education President Marion Jacqueway shared the following message in the fall 2018 SCS newsletter, which is mailed to all district residents.
Welcome to the 2018-19 school year. We look forward to leading our students onward in their journey to explore and experience, learn and grow. Our number-one priority at Schoharie Central School District is providing a positive and safe educational environment and a healthy place for our community’s children and their families.
Indeed, safety and security are closely intertwined with a school’s climate and culture, upon which we are sharpening our focus this year. In line with recommendations made by New York state for all schools, Schoharie Central will be providing expanded mental health services and integrating a mental health and civics curriculum in our schools. The goal is to educate children in civics and civility, while promoting their healthy social and emotional growth.
Changes in our society and world have heightened the need to keep everyone safe in our schools. We will continue working closely with the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Department as needed and are thankful for their presence near our campus.
Steps also have been taken as part of the district’s capital construction project to make our schools physically safer. During the summer, improvements were made to our fire alarm, public address and security systems. A new Voice Over Internet Protocol phone system now connects the entire campus with an enhanced emergency call system, in addition to providing updated technology. Other updates and upgrades have been made to both schools as part of the project.
A new school year is also a time to welcome new faculty and staff and to look forward to their contributions to our school community. We also bid farewell to our retirees, thank them for their all they’ve done for our students and staff, and wish them well as they enter the next chapter of their lives.
Our world today poses many challenges, yet our children deserve the best quality of education possible to prepare them for a lifetime of success. Our district is committed to reaching this goal within a safe, productive and positive learning environment.
Sincerely,
David M. Blanchard
Superintendent of Schools
Marion Jaqueway
Board of Education President