There is nothing quite like the joy and energy of welcoming our students and staff back into our classrooms! As we kicked off the school year on September 8th, I was filled with immense pride in our entire district community. Our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly in the best interest of our students as we navigated important changes and restructuring. While saying goodbye to Glen-Worden Elementary is undeniably bittersweet, we are so happy to welcome those former Glen-Worden students, staff, and families into their new school homes at Glendaal, Lincoln, and Sacandaga. That wonderful community spirit was on full display at our recent Chalk the Walk at each elementary school and Parent Teacher Association playdates. These activities had incredible turnouts and such warm energy from returning and new families alike. It was especially gratifying to see students’ smiling faces as they stepped off the buses this week, hear their laughter and excitement in the hallways, and watch them reconnect with the caring adults who will be part of their school year.

There is much to look forward to this year! We are welcoming several outstanding new teachers and staff members, benefiting from capital project upgrades that have strengthened security infrastructure in every building (more on that below), and launching a brand-new website to keep families connected. As we continue building out our new website, I would ask you to note that all public information questions or media platform requests should be sent to: communications@sgcsd.net.

Our fall sports are already in full swing, music and art courses are providing opportunities for students to be creative, and we are building on the momentum of a 95% high school graduation rate and 94% district-wide attendance rate!  These things do not happen without the support of our community and I thank you for that.

As I write to you on this September 11th, I find myself also reflecting on the 25 years that have passed since that life-changing day. While our world has transformed in so many ways since then, seeing our hallways and classrooms filled with eager, hopeful young people serves as a powerful reminder that our future is full of promise. 

Please take a moment to review a few essential updates, policy reminders, and helpful resources below to keep our school community safe, informed, and connected. I look forward to connecting with you as we provide the best possible school experience for our students.

— Susan M. Swartz