As we finish our final full week of the school year, I’m happy to report we had no new COVID cases this week! I’m so proud of all of the work we have done, collectively, to keep our schools open and safe for learning this year. With just a few days left, and New York fully reopening earlier this week, it’s evident that the worst of this is finally behind us.
You may have seen the news yesterday that Juneteenth is now a federal holiday. This day celebrates the end of slavery in the United States and is an important day in our nation’s history. In the 2021-22 school year, there will be no school on Monday, June 20, 2022. The Guilderland Central Schools will observe Juneteenth on Monday, June 20, as the holiday falls on a Sunday in 2022.
Commemorating Juneteenth signifies progress in fully acknowledging the history of our country and learning to do better when we know better. Here in Guilderland, our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee is spearheading our efforts to do the same. The next meeting is being held on Tuesday, June 22 at 7 p.m.
I also wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the fearlessness and bravery of one of our employees, Ollie Thompson, who works at Lynnwood Elementary School. On Thursday, Mr. Thompson saved several lives by waking up a sleeping family whose house was on fire.
Looking for summer activities?
Several updates have been made to the Community Quick Link on the district website related to summer learning opportunities and camps. Please remember to check it frequently for current information.
Thank you for your continued patience and support. We are in the home stretch! Have a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent