The yellow school bus is far more than a ride to and from school, it is a cornerstone of safety, reliability, access, and opportunity. Each day, a dedicated team of transportation professionals works behind the scenes to ensure students arrive at school and return home safely, efficiently, and ready to learn. Love the Bus Month gives us an opportunity to bring this essential work into the spotlight by recognizing the people, purpose, and pride that define our transportation department.
Throughout the month, our school and community will see a variety of activities designed to celebrate and highlight school transportation, including:
• Student artwork and messages sharing why they love their bus
• Driver and staff spotlights recognizing the faces behind the wheel
• Safety reminders and educational information for students, families, and motorists
• Visible displays of appreciation across our schools and community
We are especially grateful for the leadership of our Director of Transportation, Michelle Clark, and the dedication of our entire transportation department. Their professionalism, commitment to safety, and care for students are essential to the daily success of our district.
While Love the Bus Month officially takes place in February, our appreciation for this work extends far beyond a single month. We invite our entire school community to join us in recognizing and thanking the transportation professionals who help keep our schools connected and our students moving every day.
With appreciation,
Kai D’Alleva
Superintendent of Schools
Kyle Percey
School Business Official

WG Families and Community,
As you are aware, it has been very cold. Tomorrow morning is expected to be even colder, bringing extreme cold, with wind chills between -20° and -25°. In response, the district will implement our Extreme Cold Weather Protocol to support student safety.
Bus Riders: Please wait indoors until your bus arrives, then come out promptly.
Walkers: School buses traveling through town will offer rides along main streets when possible.
All Students: If your child will be outside for any length of time, please ensure they are dressed warmly with coats, hats, gloves, and appropriate winter gear.
For additional guidance on staying safe in extreme cold, please review the NOAA infographic below.
Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students safe. Stay warm and SOAR Lake Hawks!







It looks like this Elf was ready to see our Little Lake Hawks on the last day before Christmas break,but the snow had other plans. Even though school was closed today, this Elf hopes everyone enjoyed a cozy snow day and has a safe, happy start to winter break! Looking forward to seeing our Little Lake Hawks in 2026! #WGProud #LittleLakeHawks
https://youtu.be/SZ678XZiZTo



We’re excited to share that this month’s Town Hall will spotlight the character theme of Gratitude!
Students have been learning what it means to notice and appreciate the people and things around them, express thanks, and show kindness through their words and actions. We’re proud of the ways they’ve been practicing gratitude each day.
We also put together a short video highlighting the students who were selected for demonstrating gratitude this month — we can’t wait for you to see it! 🎥💙
👉 https://youtu.be/JOR3-c5_SSE

We are seeking School Bus Drivers for the 25–26 school year. If you are ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and want to be part of a team that creates a positive, welcoming start and end to every school day, we want to hear from you.
We offer a consistent school-year schedule, paid training, and access to health insurance. Starting pay is $23.05 per hour, with wages negotiable based on experience.
If you value a supportive, community-centered environment and take pride in helping students grow and thrive, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.
Apply today: https://www.wgcsd.org/page/employment
Join our team and help our learners soar.

Watkins Glen Central School District is seeking dedicated professionals who believe in guiding every learner toward their full potential. We are committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where curiosity is encouraged, learning is continuous, and respect and resilience shape the foundation for student success.
Current featured vacancies include:
1 Kindergarten Teacher (Full-Time, Probationary Track)
1 Clerical Support Person – Assistant to the Principal/Main Office Manager
1 First Grade Extended Long-Term Substitute
If you are passionate about helping students grow, collaborating with a strong team, and contributing to a school community that prioritizes personal growth and lifelong learning, we invite you to apply.
Learn more at www.wgcsd.org/page/employment

The Grinch made an unexpected visit to Watkins Glen Elementary today… and let’s just say he brought plenty of holiday mischief with him! He snuck through classrooms, “borrowed” a few teachers’ belongings, and hid them away in one of our offices.
To top it off, he even tried to make off with a police car — but our amazing SRO, Officer Schutt, was on the scene in seconds and quickly apprehended our green troublemaker! 🚔💚
All stolen items were safely returned, smiles were restored, and WGES is once again calm, joyful, and ready for the holiday season.
Thanks to Officer Schutt for saving the day and to our staff and students for embracing the fun! 🎉💚
#WGES #HolidayFun #GrinchAtSchool #SchoolSpirit





🎶✨ Elementary Holiday Concerts Are Almost Here! ✨🎶
Our students have been working hard, and we can’t wait to share the joy of the season with you! Please join us for our upcoming Elementary Holiday Concerts:
📍 Location: Watkins Glen High School Auditorium
🎵 3–6 Concert: December 16th at 6:30pm
🎵 K-2 Concert: December 18th at 1:15pm
🎵 UPK Concert: December 19th at 10:30am
We’re excited to celebrate our students’ talents and all the festive cheer they’ve been preparing. We hope to see you there! 💫






Watkins Glen Elementary School is seeking passionate, student-centered educators to join a team committed to helping every learner soar toward their full potential.
These vacancies support the heart of our Vision and Mission: creating a welcoming environment where respect, resilience, and lifelong learning thrive.
Now Hiring:
• Pre-K Elementary Teacher: Full-Time, Probationary Track
• First Grade Teacher: Extended Long-Term Substitute
At Watkins Glen CSD, we believe that united with our community, we can guide every learner toward success. Our educators play a vital role in sparking curiosity, building strong academic foundations, and modeling the habits that help students grow personally and academically.
What We Offer:
• A supportive and collaborative elementary team
• A mission-driven culture grounded in respect and resilience
• Opportunities for professional growth
• A chance to make a lasting impact during foundational years of learning
If you are committed to inspiring young learners and contributing to a district rooted in purpose, community, and student success, we encourage you to apply.
Apply today: https://www.wgcsd.org/page/employment

