With in-person instruction not scheduled to resume until January 11 at the earliest, the physical presence of our students in school is dearly missed.
As a small token of appreciation for their efforts during remote instruction - - and to let them know they are never forgotten - - each K-12 student in the district received a mug filled with several “goodies” as a holiday gift. 
The mugs - - roughly 900 in all - - were delivered to students by the Transportation Department on December 21. Each student’s mug contained a candy cane, hot chocolate, bookmark, gift certificate to purchase a book and a unique gift from a teacher.
“The year 2020 has been like no other, and our students have been faced with so many challenges,” said Superintendent of Schools Rocco Migliori. “We wanted to do something to show our appreciation for our students’ hard work, persistence and willingness to adapt. Remote learning is far from ideal, but our students - - and their teachers - - continue to persevere.”
“Students not being able to consistently experience all of the joys of in-person learning, like being with their friends and participating in sports, has been difficult,” added Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Personnel Stephen Polera, who, along with Superintendent Migliori, came up with the idea to deliver mugs to students. “Yet, seeing students and their teachers overcome adversity, has been inspiring.”
From Jr./Sr. High School music students recording a Christmas album for the community to enjoy to students and their families participating in numerous virtual activities, the examples of perseverance are endless.
And, the feeling of being physically apart, is mutual.
“When a school bus dropped off holiday treats for the kids, in that simple moment, I realized how much we miss you all (staff),” said a district parent. “Our family wants you all to know that we miss you, we miss normal times and we are so very grateful for everything you all do to meet the challenges of these times and still bring joy to students.”
Have a happy, safe and healthy holiday season, and see you in 2021!