A message from Dr. Wiles:
Dear GCSD Families,
Last spring the Guilderland Central School District conducted a culture and climate survey. We appreciate all who participated, as the data gathered provides insights that will help foster positive, more inclusive and supportive learning environments for all.
As is the case in many schools, the survey data showed that the topic of bullying is important for most participants. Under New York State’s Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), students should be provided with a safe, supportive educational environment, free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment and bullying. Should such behavior occur, we urge students, families and staff to report it, so that it can be addressed.
At least one employee in every GCSD school building is designated as a DASA coordinator and is trained to recognize, reduce and address social patterns of harassment, bullying and discrimination. When bullying is reported, the DASA coordinator conducts a thorough investigation of the report as quickly as possible. If the complaint is verified as a material incident of bullying, prompt action that is consistent with the district’s code of conduct is taken.
More information about DASA as well as a reporting form can be found on the district website.
Panel discussion on distraction-free school environment, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.
On Monday, Dec. 9, 7-8:30 p.m., the district will host a panel discussion on distraction-free school environments. This is an information gathering session for the school community and will help inform a cell phone-free policy the Board of Education is considering. The panel discussion will be held in the Large Group Instruction (LGI) room of Guilderland High School. An in-person event, the session will be livestreamed to the GHS Media YouTube page and recorded.
The school community may submit questions for the panel via this linked form. We cannot guarantee all individual questions will be addressed during the session, however questions received will help shape the overall discussion. Learn more about the panel discussion here.
School closure and delay information
Now that our days are shorter and there’s a chill in the air, it’s a good time to remind families of the district’s inclement weather procedures. Guilderland Central School District schools will be delayed or closed when snow or poor road conditions make travel difficult or impossible. Additional information about closings and delays can be found on the district website.
Thank you to our school psychologists and school-related professionals
This past week, schools throughout the country honored their School Psychologists and the vital work they do to support our students’ wellbeing and success. In addition, Tuesday, Nov. 19 is School Related Professionals day in New York State. This day recognizes those who help educate, feed and transport students, monitor their health, administer school offices, and maintain school facilities. Both of these groups of GCSD employees work extremely hard to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our students, so they are able to reach their fullest potential. I sincerely appreciate the dedication of all of these professionals.
Thank you for your continued support of Guilderland Central School District students and our school community. Have a wonderful and enjoyable weekend.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent