Greetings Holley Families,

 

Today, we ended our sixth full week of not having students in our schools.  That fact is truly hard to believe.  For as much as our buildings have been closed since mid-March, school is still happening, just in very different ways. 

 

I want to recognize and celebrate the efforts of our families for all you are doing to support your child(ren)’s learning and for doing the best you can during this difficult time.  We know it’s not easy, and we appreciate your efforts at home.  Please remember, if you need support, we’re here for you.  If you by chance are in need of any school supplies (pencils, crayons, paper, etc.), especially for our younger learners, please contact your child’s teacher.  We’ll do our best to get items to you ASAP.

 

I also want to thank the Holley CSD staff for remaining connected to students and families and for making great strides to redefine education and to continue to find ways to engage and teach our students remotely. Today, staff from our MS/HS delivered Class of 2020 yard signs to every senior’s home.  These signs were all paid for by personal donations from our staff.  I want to thank all who participated in this wonderful gesture of care and support for our oldest students, who have not been able to have the end of their senior year in high school that they should have been able to enjoy.  Congrats, Holley Senior Class of 2020!

 

As you know, we are currently operating under Governor Cuomo’s executive order to remain closed through May 15.  Today, the Governor stated that he plans to make an announcement soon about whether we can reopen this school year or not.  As soon as a decision is made, I will send out a communication with as much information as possible.  We continue to engage in discussions regarding keeping our students involved in meaningful learning experiences at home and to consider possibilities and options for events and activities in our district.

 

Food Distribution:  We announced last week that starting Monday, April 27, we will be providing the same amount of meals, but are shifting to providing food for our students only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  The times and distribution sites will remain the same, however, food for Tuesdays will be provided on Mondays and food for Thursdays will be in Wednesday’s pick-up.  If this provides a hardship for any family, please contact our food service office at 638-6316, ext. 2566.

 

Finally, as I reflect on all we’ve been through so far, I realize how much we’ve learned.  We’ve learned about ourselves and about what’s really important.  My hope is that coming out of this, we’re all better.  I am confident that we will be stronger and an even better school district.  We will continue to need the support of our families and community members, as we’ve shown that by working together, we’re better.  We not only need the support of our families and community, but appreciate feedback too, as we look to improve during this time as well as after this challenging and unprecedented experience ends. 

 

I continue to wish everyone health and well-being.  Stay Holley Strong!

 

Sincerely,

 

Brian Bartalo

Superintendent of Schools