May 5: LMK Principal's Message

 

Dear LMK families,

Despite the wonderful weather this weekend, there is no doubt the governor’s decision to close school made it more difficult for students to enjoy. Students were looking forward to LMK rituals, the 8th-grade barbeque, Moving Up, and the Big Wave as busses leave on the final day.  While these will all be different,  we are focusing on the positive attributes of our students, staff, and community.  We will find ways to end this school year with happy memories for your children.

Students have learned and honed innovative skills in this environment.  Some have developed personal systems for organization and management of their days.  Students are demonstrating self-sufficiency and creativity.  Your partnership has made Learning From Home successful.  Guiding your children in their daily work has helped them persevere.  

Assistant principal Scott Spector shared a compelling story.  He was supervising our daycare program for first responders and healthcare workers at Harrison Avenue School.  One student was a future LMK student, currently in fifth grade.  She is excited about middle school and asked many questions.  Mr. Spector answered them all and asked if there was anything else she would like to know.  She thought for a moment and said... 

"I have one question that I've been wondering for a while...  “In the cafeteria, are wraps the same as burritos?"  

Children remain hopeful, innocent, and do love school. I spent the rest of my day smiling,  and I look forward to a great school year in September.  

Reminders/Updates:
The Governor has directed schools to remain closed for the remainder of the academic year.

We are working to preserve school rituals, including our Moving Up ceremony, for 8th graders.  The superintendent and I met with 8th-grade officers to discuss plans for a meaningful ceremony. Our students offered amazing ideas, they were focused on their own well-being and the well-being of their teachers. We are examining all possibilities and planning for multiple scenarios. 

Our extracurricular advisors are holding club meetings with students. If you or your child have questions about club gatherings, please reach out to me or the club advisor. 

Students are using Google Hangouts for teacher-student meetings.  Zoom is another platform used by teachers; the District has a secure  Zoom account. All students grades 6-12 have district accounts to access a Zoom session. The District’s Video Conferencing Guidelines provide more information. 

The District provides free breakfast and lunch for eligible students. If you are currently eligible but have not yet applied, please complete the request form.  If your circumstances have changed and you are in need of food assistance contact your principal. All inquiries are confidential.

If your child needs a device, if there is a problem with your equipment, or if your family does not have internet access, the District will provide a device and/or a mobile hotspot to deliver internet access. If you require technology support please complete this form. If you have questions contact Brian Seligman (914-630-3389) or (seligmanb@harrisoncsd.org).   

Ms. Colosimo, Mr. Spector, and I continue to be here for you to answer any questions and offer our support.

Sincerely yours,

Scott Fried
Principal