The Sights and Sounds of Wildcat Pride

The sights and sounds of Wildcat Pride have been out in force to begin the school year. Recent events on the fields, pool, courts, and courses have the positive spirit of our West Genesee family. Recent weekend events contrasted the home setting of our Varsity Football Team on Friday and the away setting of a NYSFBC Competition of our Wildcat Band at C-NS.

The events were far more similar as many students, families, and community members donned in WG swag from sweatshirt, jerseys, baseball caps, and related paraphernalia. It is rewarding to see our students represent us in competition and the visible (and audible!) support that they receive from many, many supporters. It’s always a great day to be a Wildcat!

Learning is Prevalent in our Schools and Classrooms

The focus to engaging instruction and relevant, rigorous content takes place in classroom discussions and across content areas. The Curriculum Council meetings include ongoing review of content and grade-level standards with a commitment to bring learning to students. Similarly, our staff is involved in a plethora of professional development opportunities that continues the year-round commitment to a culture of continuous improvement.

It has been a pleasure to meet our OUTSTANDING staff across the schools. Their knowledge and commitment is very impressive!  Please know that they are “rock stars” of classroom learning and, although it does not come with bleachers, p.a. systems, and concession stands, it is very deserving of our “cheers.”

Congratulations to the All-State Musicians!

Congratulations to students who have recently been announced as accepted to the New York State School Music Association Conference All-State groups. It is with an incredible amount of hard work and commitment that these student-musicians receive the highest acknowledgment in NYS.

In December, they will come together in Rochester with ensembles made up of the very finest from schools throughout the state. As you can see, West Genesee is very, very well represented which is a credit to the honorees, their families, and our music department. Bravo Wildcats! For a list of those students being honored, click here.

Talk with the Superintendent

The West Genesee Board of Education (Board) will join me in a “Talk with the Superintendent” evening on Tuesday, September 24, starting at 7:00 p.m. in the large group instruction room at the high school. It is my hope to continue to meet community members, introduce myself, and respond to questions of interest.

Although the evening is only a short period of time, the Board and I remain committed to ongoing dialogue and solid communication to further our work on behalf of the youth of our community. I look forward to meeting you next Tuesday.

Have a great week!
~David

Start Lines and Finish Lines

Start lines and finish lines are great places! As an analogy, that may apply to a sunrise and sunset, the start and end to a song, the transition of seasons, the mysterious beginning and surprise ending to a good book, and many more. The start of a school year is exciting, fresh, and filled with the hope of what is to come next. The start of a day can be the same way with a positive mindset and willing attitude. The combination of those two is a milestone.

Last week’s start to the school year began a list of “firsts” that is celebrated overtly and more subtly. For me, the 33rd start of the school year was equal to any experienced and part of a new chapter. For many, pictures on that first day labeled with a new grade will one day be compared to others to show the physical growth that accompanies that of learning. Of course, the firsts with our kindergartners are very special. Similar moments are happening across the District when renewing teams, joining new clubs, and meeting new friends. (To view more pictures from the first week of school click here.)

“When you learn, teach; when you get, give.” 

– Maya Angelou

It has been a pleasure to enjoy firsts at West Genesee and begin to give back for the many opportunities and support I have had throughout my life. The welcome felt from students, families, and staff has been heartwarming. The kindness of everyone in the community has reiterated for me the “large school with a small school feel” that is repeatedly heard.

Thank you to everyone who has gone out of their way to say hello, and I look forward to meeting those with whom our paths have yet to cross. As my wife and I begin the transition to relocating within the community, I may see you at school events, restaurants, stores, or when out enjoying a run. I look forward to meeting you then.

It is worthy to note that our buildings are in peak shape following the months of preparation and upkeep. A very big thank you goes out to our building custodial, maintenance, and grounds workers who care for our facilities. This summer’s annual task of deep cleaning was accompanied by capital work that provided time challenges and logistical maneuvering. Their “behind the scenes” effort is imperative to our work. Thank you!

Have a great week!
~David