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Welcome Back to School WGCSD School Community,

I hope you have enjoyed a wonderful summer and have had the opportunity to relax, recharge, and spend time with family and friends.

As summer winds down and we prepare to welcome students back, there is a special sense of excitement across our district. Behind the scenes, our faculty and staff have been busy preparing classrooms, organizing materials, refining lessons, and getting ready for the moments that matter most: welcoming students, building relationships, and helping every child feel connected, supported, and inspired from day one.

This year brings several exciting developments, including an expanded instructional day for the first time in many years. This important enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to providing students with even more opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Planning also continues for our next Capital Improvement Project as we work to ensure our facilities continue to meet the needs of current and future generations of Lake Hawks.

Throughout the summer, many individuals worked hard to prepare our buildings for the year ahead. I would like to extend a special thank you to our Operations and Maintenance team for their efforts in completing facility improvements, including the elementary school lighting project, maintaining our beautiful grounds, and ensuring our schools are safe, welcoming, and ready for students and staff.

As families make plans for the coming week, please keep these important dates in mind

  • First Day of School for Students: Tuesday, September 8

  • All BOCES programs will also begin on September 8

  • Friday, September 11: No school for students due to the Vintage Festival

As we enjoy the final weekend of summer, I hope our students and families take time to slow down, enjoy one another, and create a few more memories before the routines of the school year begin. Whether it's a family cookout, a trip to the lake, or simply spending time together at home, I hope the weekend provides an opportunity to recharge and prepare for an exciting year ahead.

Labor Day also gives us an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people whose hard work makes our community strong. In schools, we often think of teachers when we think of education, but it truly takes an entire team. From bus drivers and custodians to aides, office staff, maintenance workers, food service employees, and all those who support our students each day, we are grateful for the labor and dedication that make the opportunities we provide possible.

As we begin a new school year, I am reminded of one of our district's core values: Perseverance.

Overcoming difficulties, delays, and obstacles that would otherwise prevent success.

Perseverance is not about never facing challenges. It is about continuing to move forward when things become difficult. Every student, family, and staff member faces moments that test them. A challenging assignment, a new school, a difficult season, or an unexpected obstacle can sometimes make the finish line feel far away. Yet time and again, our Lake Hawks demonstrate what perseverance looks like. They show up, put in the effort, support one another, and keep moving forward. Those small moments of determination often lead to meaningful growth and success.

The start of a new school year is a reminder that every day brings a fresh opportunity. Whether your child is walking into school for the very first time, beginning a new chapter in high school, or preparing for graduation, we are honored to be part of their journey. Together, we will celebrate successes, navigate challenges, and help every student reach their full potential.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We are excited to welcome our students back on September 8 and begin another outstanding year together.

SOAR, LAKE HAWKS!

Respectfully,
Kai D'Alleva
WGCSD
Superintendent of Schools