Happy Holidays to all!

As we approach the holiday break and the end of another calendar year, we also approach the half way point in our school calendar. I have spent much of the time this school year discussing student achievement and academic issues, which are at the core of our district mission statement.

But another part of our mission is community support. Both of our school buildings have been doing a great deal in our community this year and this holiday season.

At WJSHS, the Character Education program has been working to feed the hungry: In the past, Character Ed. Has worked at the Equinox Shelter to assist with Thanksgiving dinners. Community service in this area has expanded to include assisting with the St. Patrick's Soup kitchen every Monday evening, the St .Patrick's Food Pantry for Thanksgiving, and one trip per month to the Regional Food Bank in Latham to prepare shipments of food to numerous local food pantries. They also expanded their work with the City of Watervliet to include assistance with the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony and the flower planting through the housing authority.

WES students and staff give back through the Giving Tree which benefits families in need. Staff and community members purchase needed items to brighten the holiday for families that are struggling. In addition, the WES food drive collected well over 1000 pounds of food which was donated to the Watervliet St. Patrick's food drive.

The WHS Student Council conducted a food drive as well, which collected over 260 items and $370 in cash contributions.

Through efforts such as these throughout the year, the students and staff of the Watervliet City School District show a spirit of giving and commitment to the people of the community in which they live.

I am very proud and quite pleased that we are able to live up to this piece of our mission.

Happy Holidays to all.