School Budget Analysis

An analysis of the cost of each program area supported by the school budget has been completed and a summary of the findings was presented at the February 11 Board meeting (click here for presentation).  The goals were to:

  - Promote greater understanding of how funds are allocated across budget categories and what kinds of expenses are included in each budget category

- Provide a format for analyzing expenses in the context of other districts in Westchester & Putnam Counties, various mandates and standards that drive them, efficiency considerations, and outcomes achieved

 - Identify potential opportunities for savings based on the above

The resulting list of potential savings opportunities will serve as the framework for the 2010-11 budget proposal that will be presented to the Board of Education at the March 4 Board meeting.

School Building Consolidation Study

Like school districts everywhere, we are faced with the prospect of insufficient revenue to cover projected expenses during the 2010-11 school year and beyond.  Greater efficiency, along with reductions or eliminations of discretionary programs and services, will be required in order to produce a balanced budget.  Since the Washington Irving School formerly housed three grade levels, but now houses two, one potential option for reducing our expenses that might have a lower impact on students than measures such as increasing class sizes or eliminating programs would be to close or lease either Tappan Hill School or John Paulding School.  This would be accomplished by moving the third grade from Morse School to Washington Irving and moving the first grade from John Paulding to Morse School. 

A committee consisting of administrators, teachers, non-instructional staff, parents, and a village government representative was established to provide a cross section of perspectives in studying this option.  The charge of the committee was to compile all of the relevant information necessary for the Board of Education to make a fully informed decision about whether to seriously consider pursuing a building closure option.  A summary of their report was presented at the February 11 Board of Education meeting.
Click below for presentation and report:

Building Consolidation Presentation
Building Consolidation Report                                                                                                    (Posted 2/14/10)

Congratulations to the 2010 Dinner Dance Honorees

The Foundation For the Public School of the Tarrytowns is pleased to announce that the District's Performing and Fine Arts teachers, Peter Royston, Alison Paul, and the members of the Performing Arts Boosters have been selected as the Foundation's 2010 Dinner Dance Honorees.

At this year's Dinner Dance and Auction on April 24th, the Foundation will be celebrating all the Arts programs in our school district, and the teachers and community leaders behind the programs that make Arts an important part of our student's lives.

As school budgets face budgetary pressures, arts programs often are the first targets of reduction in funding.  We live in a community that has supported the arts, not only in the school budgets, but in countless hours of time and energy contributed by members of the public. With this in mind, the Foundation wants to celebrate its own commitment to the Arts, whether it is media arts, theater arts, pottery, music, etc., as we continue to provide the most innovative and enriching arts programs possible.  And, this is all thanks to our dedicated honorees.

Invitation's to this year's event will be mailed in March. We send invites to every household in our school district. If you wish to receive an invite, but may not be on this mailing list, please contact me at the information under my name.  I will be happy to send you an invitation.

Thank you,
Shelly Colley
Foundation Administrator

The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns
100 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
P: 366-8457
F:  366-7948        (Posted 2/4/10)

A Special Message from the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

Back in December, you received our Annual Appeal letter from the Foundation, telling you about new, advanced microscopes that were purchased for Middle School students, as well as information about other initiatives that we fund for all of the students in our district.

If you have not yet responded to this annual community drive, there is still plenty of time to do so.  We need community donations to continue the programs, in every school, that we fund each year.  Any donation, large and small, makes a huge difference in our district.  And, it all goes back to your child. 

Please read the following to get a clearer idea of where your money goes, and what could be lost, if we do not bring in the same level of donations this year:

Facts about the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

        1. Each year, the Foundation gives $40,000 to the Pre-k through 12th grade Arts Plan to support Music, Fine Arts, Theater Arts and Dance.

        2. The Foundation gives $15,000 in Creativity Grants for which district teachers may apply to support existing curriculum. Some examples of these grants are: Rugby, Kinder-Opera, Plant Life and Organic Gardening, Audible Kids-Audible Books, and Dance and Culture in the Spanish Language Arts.

        3. Funds totaling $20,000 were donated by the Foundation for a complete television studio and broadcasting program. This studio allows Sleepy Hollow High School students to develop skills in the broadcasting, information technology, and journalism fields. Local access programs are transmitted from this studio.

        4. The Foundation wrote a grant through the NYS Education Department and received $14,000, funding new exercise bicycles for the SHHS/MS gym, a climbing wall for Tappan Hill, and two Macintosh workstations for the SHHS art and technology program.

        5. An $11,000 Foundation commitment to the science curriculums in the SHHS/MS will fund the programs: 21st Century Science, Sleepy Hollow Green Car, Dry Ice Simply Sublime, as well as the additional purchase of more technically advanced microscopes for middle school students.

        6. The Foundation board recently approved an Athletics Plan that, along with the District, will allocate funds for sports programs.

       7. $8000 in Foundation donations helps to fund the 8th grade annual trip to Washington, D.C.  For many of these students, this is the first time they have been to our nation’s capital.

       8. What the students call “Books in a Bag,” educators call “Leveled Reading Books” – a take-home book program which helps take emerging readers to greater fluency. This program was implemented at Tappan Hill, John Paulding and Morse schools.

        9. The Foundation has provided more than $10,000 in new level reading books that continue to challenge and form our youngest readers.

Please feel free to contact me at 366-8457 or foundation@tufsd.org.

Shelly Colley  (Posted 1/28/10)

Preparing for College@ Warner Library! 

A Free  Four Part Series for Parents and Teens

Feb. 4^th 2009, 5 – 6:30 PM
ACT vs. SAT - Kaplan explains the differences between the Act and Sat tests.

Feb. 11^th, 7 – 8:30 PM
The Campus Visit– questions to ask, people to speak with, etc.

Feb. 25^th, 7 – 8:00 PM
Financing College - the diffeent ways to fund a college education.

March 18^th, 5 – 6:30 PM
Test Strategies 01 – KAPLAN gives tips on how to become a better test taker.

Registration is requested by calling Reference @ 914-631-7734 or visiting the library. (Posted 1/28/10)

NYSUT Annual Food Drive 2010   

The NYSUT Annual Food Drive, sponsored by the Teachers Association of the Tarrytowns, will run from January 19^th to February 5^th.  Donations will support the Food Bank for Westchester.  Please be mindful not to donate outdated or damaged food items.  If you would like to make a monetary contribution, please make checks payable to Food Bank for Westchester. 

The Food Bank’s new web site is www.FoodBankforWestchester.org .  Please visit the site to obtain more information and to see a list of the most needed items.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact the food drive coordinator David Suarez dsuarez@tufsd.org. 

Your contribution will not only help those less fortunate than you, but it will also teach your child a valuable lesson in giving and caring for others.  Thank you for caring and helping your community!   (Posted 1/14/10)

Sleepy Hollow High School 

Please join us at our next meeting…

Monday, February 1^st at 7:30^pm in the SHHS Library

ON THE AGENDA:

·         District Technology Director, Mrinalini Rajwar, and science teacher, Janet Longo-Abinanti will demonstrate how to access and use our new ‘Parent Portal’ to teacher’s gradebooks.

·         Participate in a discussion, facilitated by Superintendent Howard Smith and Principal Carol Conklin, about next year’s school budget and its potential impact on the high school.

·         Receive an overview of the student course selection process for 2010-2011.    (Posted 1/20/10)

Hey Kids, Saturday, January 23rd is…
Movie Morning!!!
Your votes have been counted and the movie you have chosen is:
G-Force!!
** EPTA bake sale will immediately follow the movie **
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OFFICIAL MOVIE TICKET
Where: Washington Irving School
When: Saturday, January 23, 2010
What Time: 10am to 12pm
(doors open at 9:30am)
Price of Admission: One Parent
Dear Parents, each child must be accompanied by an adult. If you would like to help out during the show please contact: Andrea Gottschall at 332.6064 or andig797@aol.com

 (Posted 1/20/10)

For Teen Guys and Gals:  'Make Valentines for your Special Valentines'

Learn how to make uniquely beautiful Valentine Cards - it's easy and fun! @ The Warner Library, Tuesday, Feb. 8th, 3:30 - 5 PM, in the Teen Area.  (Posted 1/19/10)

The following is an update of the Creativity Grants that you may have applied for:

The Foundation received 43 grant requests for a total of $90,420; last year we received 20 grant requests, totaling $30,000.  We were extremely impressed with the quality of the grant applications, and the overall merits that came through on these proposals. 

During our review of all the grants, we noticed that many of the grants could fall into other Foundation buckets, such as Elementary /Secondary Arts, Athletics, Needs Assessment, and District Budget.  We are taking those grants out of Creativity Grants and having the aforementioned committees review them.  These committees will review them as quickly as possible, and we will get back to you with final decisions.

Teachers submitting grants that were reviewed as Creativity Grants specifically, will be notified in the next day or two regarding approval.

Thank you for your patience while we try to accommodate as many grant applications as possible.  Please feel free to contact me at any time.

Kindest regards,

Shelly Colley
Foundation Administrator

General Meeting
Tuesday, January 12, 2010, 7:00pm

Please join the EPTA of the Tarrytowns for:

Changing Behaviors

Exchanging Your Child's Bad Behaviors For Good Ones

 A presentation by author and parenting coach Tom Palermo

Tom Palermo established Positive Parenting in 1991 to assist parents in developing the heightened skills necessary to manage today's daily challenges that face both parent and child. Mr. Palermo address such issues as: how to end yelling, effective disciplining, relationship building skills, quality teaching techniques, setting goals for self and child, achieving compliance, and quality modeling skills.

http://www.positiveparenting.tv/ppt.html

Please join us for Mr. Palermo's presentation on:

• Reinforcing and teaching appropriate behaviors.
• Teaching to inappropriate behaviors and teaching new skills and values.
• Creating measurable change in inappropriate behaviors.
• Understanding and utilizing the Opportunity To Teach Tool.

Location:         John Paulding - Multi-purpose room

Schedule:        7:00 - Presentation by Mr. Palermo

• Complimentary Child Care will be provided
• Spanish translation will be provided

You do not need to be a member to attend our meetings – Our meetings are open to all!   (Posted 1/7/10)

After School and Camp Programs at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture

After School Winter 2010

After School Spring 2010

Vacation Camp 2010

Summer Farm Camp 2010

Long-Range Strategic Planning

During an October 23  " Forward Thinking " session,  a large group of community members and school employees engaged in a long-range strategic planning  exercise.   By the end of the session, a number of "critical uncertainties" about future trends and their implications for our schools were identified.  Since then, these critical uncertainties have been reviewed with our administrative team and the consultant who facilitated the session on October 23.  A possible scenario framework  for use in exploring implications of trends related to two of the critical uncertainties  has emerged and we want your comments and suggestions. To accomplish this, we have set up a blog: http://tufsdblogs.org/planning/

You are invited to access the blog and review the summary of our original session, along with the draft scenario framework proposal. The blog format can be used to comment on the proposed framework and/or suggest an alternative framework for consideration.

The period for input will extend from now through January 4. Please feel free to forward the blog link to anyone you think might be interested in participating as well. The more the merrier! As noted in the description accompanying the blog, we will assemble a smaller representative working group to review all of the input in January and agree on a framework to propose to the Board of Education for use in developing future scenarios for further exploration.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Howard W. Smith

SAVE THE DATE
Saturday April 24, 2010

Mark your calendar and join us at the Doubletree Hotel for our 16^th Annual Dinner Dance and Auction. Volunteers are needed.
Contact Shelly Colley in the Foundation office at (914) 366-8457 or by email at foundation@tufsd.org and help us create a fun and successful gala event.  (Posted 12/10/09)

Community Outreach Food Drive
December 14 through December 18

The EPTA is working together with Christ Church, the YMCA, the United Methodist Church, the Kids’ Club of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, Whimsies Incognito and The Warner Library to collect food for holiday baskets for local families.

What can you do?
Donate canned vegetables, bags of rice or bags of dried beans

Donate C’Town gift cards

Where can these be dropped off?

The Warner Library
121 North Broadway, Tarrytown
Monday, Thursday 1pm to 9pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 5pm

Whimsies Incognito
35 South Broadway, Tarrytown
Monday through Friday 10am to 7pm

Christ Church
43 South Broadway, Tarrytown
Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm

How else can you help?

              Volunteer for packing or distributing gift baskets by contacting Rachelle Gebler at ddgebler@yahoo.com or 332-0182.

Happy Holidays!

(Posted 12/10/09)

Star Trek 2009 Movie at Warner Library

Have more fun on your School Break!.  Enjoy the latest 'Star Trek' movie @ the Warner Library, Monday, December 28th, 6 - 8 PM on the library's third floor.  Raffle and snacks provided.  All ages welcome. (Posted 12/10/09)

Special Message from the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

This week you will be receiving a letter from the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns regarding our annual community appeal.  Please read this letter as it will tell you about the types of programs that the Foundation funds for your children and all of the children in our school district.  Contact the Foundation office to find out how you can help advance the educational experience for all our students in the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  As a community-based volunteer organization, we could not do this without your help. The Foundation is a non-for-profit organization whose mission is to encourage and enhance academics, athletics, the arts, technology and other  programs of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  We are committed to enriching learning experiences so that all students can excel.  Click here for the letter.

Please contact Shelly Colley, 366-8457 or email Foundation@tufsd.org

Westchester Ballet Company's production of The Nutcracker

Did you know there are 8 students from Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow performing in Westchester Ballet Company's production of The Nutcracker?  This magical family holiday classic with spectacular scenery and costumes, classic choreography and special stage effects is conveniently located at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Be sure to look for:

1 lovely Party Child attending Clara's Christmas parlor
1 Mouse battling in her parlor;
4 Snowflakes twirling across the wondrous stage;
1 Page welcoming Clara to the Kingdom of Sweets;
2 Clowns, 1 Chinese Tea, 3 Russian Dancers;
and 1 Page as well as 3 Crystalline Flowers.....
... All from Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

Tickets are ONLY $18 for adults, $12 for children (ages 2-10) and seniors (ages 60 and up) if purchased in advance. Here the easy accessible links to order your tickets from. (Posted 11/12/09)

Flyer

Advance Order Form

Group Order Form

Coupon                                                                                       

The EPTA and A Nu Toy Store

Holiday Toy Drive

To benefit

Open Door Family Medical Centers

Help make holiday magic happen for children in need. 

Why are we hosting a toy drive?

·     To help Open Door Family Medical Centers ensure that the children they serve in Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown have a new toy this holiday season.

When is the toy drive?

·        November 16th – December 4th

What types of toys are needed?

·        New, unwrapped toy for children ages infant to 14 years.

·        Think about the toys and games you and your family like!

·        Gift cards from local businesses.

·        Maximum value of $20.

Where can donations be dropped off and/or purchased?

·        A Nu Toy Store located at 36.5 Main Street, Tarrytown

Who can I contact?

·        Rachelle Gebler, ddgebler@yahoo.com, 332-0182

Open Door Family Medical Centers is a nonprofit community-based health center providing quality primary care and human services at affordable prices to the community, particularly the economically disadvantaged. Please contact Alicia Ward, Volunteer Coordinator, by phone at 914-502-1468 or by email award@ood.org. Visit our  website at  www.opendoormedical.org (Posted 11/10/09)

Family Science Night

Wednesday, November 18, 2009
6:30pm to 8:15pm
(Registration begins at 6:15pm. Activities begin at 6:30pm sharp)
Sleepy Hollow High School
(Please make sure to use High School entrance – look for the balloons!)
For all students in Kindergarten through 5^th grade
The EPTA and the Sleepy Hollow High School science department invite you to a fun-filled night of discovery and exploration. Here is a sampling of what our scientists have planned for your enjoyment:

Water World
CSI – Sleepy Hollow
Super Slime
The Science of Lemons
The Search for Sugar

* There will also be a drop off for food and gift card donations for the

EPTA Fall Food Drive *

* For questions, please contact Christina Clarke at tinaclarke@aol.com or Rachelle Gebler at ddgebler@yahoo.com

(Posted 11/10/09)

Please join us for the

Fall Food Drive

November 16 through November 20

to support the RSHM Life Center Families and local Thanksgiving food programs

This year the EPTA will continue its commitment to helping local families in need by sponsoring a food drive.

We are offering 2 ways to help our local families:

* Donations of canned food items  will be given to a local Thanksgiving food program

* Donations of C’Town gift cards will be given to the RSHM Life Center

All donations may be dropped off in the lobby of your child’s school during the week of November 16 through November 20. There will be a bin for food donations and gift cards can be given to your child’s teacher.

This event is sponsored by the EPTA. Please feel free to contact

Rachelle Gebler at ddgebler@yahoo.com or 332-0182 with any questions.

Thank You!

 (Posted 11/10/09)

General Meeting
Tuesday, November 17, 2009, 6:45pm
Please join the EPTA of the Tarrytowns for:

Paying Attention to Attention
Rethinking ADHD
A special presentation by Dr. Paul Yellin

Dr. Paul B. Yellin is the Director of The Yellin Center for Student Success, a New York City-based clinical organization dedicated to helping struggling students experience genuine success in school and in life. An Associate Professor of Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine, Dr. Yellin is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, having served as President of the New York City Chapter.  He has also served on the New York State Task Force on Mental Health and Childhood Learning Differences.

Please join us for Dr. Yellin's presentation on:

• A comprehensive approach to understanding, diagnosing, and treating attention problems.
• How best to understand and manage attention-related symptoms- including medical and non-medical approaches.

Location:         John Paulding - Multi-purpose room

Schedule:        6:45 - General EPTA meeting
                        7:00 - Presentation by Dr. Yellin

• Complimentary Child Care will be provided
• Spanish translation will be provided

You do not need to be a member to attend our meetings –
Our meetings are open to all!

 (Posted 11/10/09)

Dear Teachers, Administrators, Support Staff, Students and Parents:

It is that time of year again when the Foundation is pleased to announce the 2009-2010 Creativity Grants Program.  If you have an idea that you have not been able to realize for lack of funds, now is the time to put that idea on the computer.

Our goal is to support your creativity in meeting the state mandated curriculum and testing requirements.  We especially welcome ideas that have not been introduced in the district before or that cross disciplines or age groups.  Use us to bring in resources to help you do your job more efficiently and creatively.

We welcome grant participation from student/teacher and parent/teacher teams as well as teachers alone or in collaboration with other teachers.  We have a total of $15,000 available and will make individual grants of up to $1,500 and collaborative grants of up to $5,000 for use between January 15, 2010 and December 31, 2010.  There is no limit to the number of applications from each school.

Applications are due by November 24, 2009.  The Guidelines and the Application are available on the Foundation website.  Go to www.tufsd.org/foundation/, click on Grants, click on the highlighted blue “online grant application” and you can apply directly on-line.  Save the grant application in a word document, and then send back to me as an attachment.

A Creative Grants committee reviews each grant application and makes a final decision in January 2010
I am available via email or phone 366-8457 to answer any questions that you might have.

Kindest regards,

Shelly Colley
Foundation Administrator

(Posted 10/20/09)

The Green Committee/WLM Morse Gently Used Clothing Sale was a great success!

Participation in this fall's event was excellent.  Several Morse and TUFSD Green Committee staff worked hard to plan and run the event.  Our district custodial staff worked hard to collect, store and deliver donations to Morse School.  Mrs. Randazzo and students from Morse created eco-art that made this (and will make future events) special.  We were blessed with the support of dedicated parent volunteers who made it possible for us to get thousands of items ready for our shoppers.  Our grade 3 Brownies were also fantastic volunteers throughout the event on Saturday. 

Overall, more than 200 families donated clothing, shoes, sporting equipment and books to the sale.  Over 95 families came through the doors on Saturday, many finding needed clothing for their own families as well as an extended network of family and friends.  The vast majority of items were taken for reuse by TUFSD families and the rest will go to the Village Recreation department and the local Salvation Army.

Families who attended were also able to meet with representatives from Hudson Health, the Westchester Hispanic Coalition and New York Life.  These groups offered families support with health care, local services and child identification.  Special thanks to Ms. Cayon and Ms. Feliciano for making this possible.

Finally, we shifted our focus from charging $10 per bag to welcoming donations, starting the suggested donation at $1.  This allowed many families to take home a larger quantity of needed clothing, while it inspired others to donate even more than they might have.  The event team agreed that, especially this year, it felt right to focus the event on reusing and recycling rather than fundraising--and we were thrilled and validated that we could still raise over $400 while doing it!

Thank you to all of our volunteers and to everyone who spread the word about this event. This sale is a tradition brought to TUFSD and Morse by Elisabeth Hickey and we remain grateful for the inspiration for such a valuable event!  We look forward to the next event this April that will be part of our Green Week celebration.  (Posted 10/18/09)

New Tanaka Greenhouse Dedicated at WI

After many months of hard work on the part of representatives of Hitachi America Corporation and the school district, a brand new greenhouse at the Washington Irving School was dedicated in a ceremony on October 8.  A number of years ago, Mr. Tanaka, a former president and CEO of Hitachi America who is now deceased, was instrumental in establishing a foundation that resulted in a substantial grant to the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  The funds remained dormant awaiting just the right idea for how they could be put to best use.  When it became apparent that the aging greenhouse at WI was no longer safe or suitable for use in support of the "greening" of the science program, it was agreed that the funds should be devoted to replacing the greenhouse.  The new greenhouse, complete with thermostatically operated vents, shades, and an irrigation system, was dedicated in memory of Mr. Tanaka.  The ceremony was attended by a number of representatives from Hitachi, along with parents who had been instrumental in reviving the gardening program at WI, and school officials who were instrumental in making the arrangements for the installation of the new greenhouse.  Special thanks was given to Board President Mimi Godwin for her leadership and initiative in working with Hitachi to make the greenhouse project possible.  Click here for a link to a slide show of students, parents, Hitachi volunteers, and teachers enjoying our new greenhouse.   (Posted 10/11/09)

Martial Arts Demo Class

Come to the Warner Library for a free introductory workshop conducted by Yoo's Martial Arts on Tuesday, Oct. 13th, 3 - 4 PM For Ages 11 - 19. (Posted 10/11/09)

Navigating the Common Application and Personal Essay

Let an experienced college admissions counselor take you step-by-step through the application process and give you suggestions for writing a personal essay that will impress, at the Warner Library, Wednesday, Oct. 14th, 4 - 5PM. Free for all attendees. (Posted 10/11/09)

General Meeting
Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 6:45pm
Please join the EPTA of the Tarrytowns for:
S.N.A.C.K.S.
(Simple, Nutritious, And Creative Kid-friendly Snacks)
A special presentation by Abbey Gilligan

Abbey Gilligan is a 5th grade teacher at Washington Irving, as well as a Holistic Health Counselor. A graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and a member of the American Association for Drugless Practitioners, Ms. Gilligan observes the effects of food and nutrition on children daily, and strives to help people make lifelong changes that enable them to reach their current future health goals.

Please join us for Ms. Gilligan's presentation on:

• Creating healthy eating habits in children.
• The hidden side effects of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup.

Ms. Gilligan's presentation will include some healthy and delicious snacks for parents to sample. So come ready to nibble.

Location:         John Paulding - Multi-purpose room

Schedule:        6:30 - General EPTA meeting
                        7:00 - Presentation by Ms. Gilligan

• Complimentary Child Care will be provided
• Spanish translation will be provided

You do not need to be a member to attend our meetings –
Our meetings are open to all!

 (Posted 10/3/09)

District-Wide Day of Recycling!

Save the Date and Clean out your Closets! On Saturday, October 17th, the TUFSD Green Committee, SPEAR, PTSA and EPTA will be co-sponsoring a District-Wide Day of Recycling!

On our Day of Recycling, families from can participate in several events:

• Electronics Recycling at Sleepy Hollow High School: Recycle electronics from computers, to TVs, to cell phones. Proceeds from recycling electronics will go towards scholarships for Sleepy Hollow graduates.
• Gently Used Clothing, Books and Sporting Equipment Sales: Come to the Morse School to buy gently used clothing for all ages and all seasons. And,buy gently used cleats, gloves and other sporting equipment.

WE NEED DONATIONS to make these events successful. Please clean out your closets to look for the following: clothing (for all ages, sizes and seasons...especially cold weather seasons); sporting equipment; electronics to recycle. You will be able to drop donations off at any TUFSD school building between Oct 13th and 15th. (Posted 9/20/09)

Back to School - At the beginning of every school year I share summary information with the Board about enrollment trends, summer program outcomes, and our non-instructional operations.  Our enrollment this fall is up by about 3% as we continue to have new students from all over the world move into our school district.  Class sizes generally fall within our guidelines, although the premium we place on giving high school students access to the courses of their choice sometimes results in lower or higher numbers of students in a given class than we would like.  We operated a successful home-based elementary program and school-based secondary school program this summer and many of our teachers were actively involved this summer in refining our curricula.  Our fall sports numbers are healthy and all of our varsity teams have proven themselves to be very competitive during our initial interscholastic contests.  We are busing the same number of students compared to last year, but with one third fewer buses.  More seats are filled and the bus runs are averaging about two minutes longer.  However, we will be able to relax the tighter enforcement of our transportation eligibility standards that we began the year with and open up unfilled seats to secondary students living in areas where they have traditionally been able to ride a bus to school.  Our school lunch program is serving approximately 60% of our students and the new middle and high school cafeterias are enabling us to offer more choices to students.  Finally, a lot of good old fashioned cleaning and painting was done in our buildings this summer and the results speak for themselves as you walk through our schools.  All in all, we are off to a great start!  The full school board presentation can be viewed by clicking here.

                                                                                           Howard W. Smith, Superintendent of Schools                                   
(Posted 9/18/09)

The Rose Ceremony – Thursday, Sept. 24th at 9:30 a.m.  - Sleepy Hollow High School Auditorium

The fall Rose Ceremony starts off our school year with twelfth graders saying “Welcome” to our first graders with a rose and a tee-shirt proudly proclaiming them as Sleepy Hollow’s Class of 2021.  In June there will be a reciprocating ceremony in which the first graders will wish the seniors “good luck and farewell” as they graduate.  Parents of first and twelfth graders are invited to attend The Rose Ceremony. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. and last for about an hour.   Please note this program is exclusively for 1st and 12th graders and their parents; underclassmen and middle school students are not permitted to miss class to attend.

Book Lists

Research shows that students who don't read "just-right" books over the summer regress in their reading levels by September.  Rather than suggest a one-size-fits-all summer reading list, the book level description document provides a description of the qualities of books at each level, and offers a few sample titles so that parents and librarians can assist students in finding "just-right" books.  The final report card provides you with your child's independent reading level (A-Z); simply look up the level description on the book level description to know what kind of books are a "just-right" match with your reader!  Click here for the book level description. (Posted 7/8/09)

K - 6 Summer Activity Packets

Don't let your brain take a vacation!  Summer can't be all beach balls, swimming pools, and picnics!  Research shows that students that are not engaged in any academic activities over the summer break regress and have a harder time catching up once school begins.  This week, students in grades K-6 will receive a Summer Homework Activity Packet from their classroom teachers to help prevent any regression.  The packet has one activity for each week of summer vacation, from reading to math and science to social studies.  The packet also contains a reading log for students to keep track of their daily summer reading.  Students who return their completed summer activity packet during the first week of school in September will be invited to a special celebration to celebrate their hard work, and will be eligible to win awards and prizes!  The activities are similar across the grades, so siblings and friends in different grades can work together to complete the activities.  If your packet has been lost or misplaced, you can download another one from the website.  Have fun at the beach, pool, and picnics, but keep your brain engaged by keeping up with summer reading and completing your activity packet to start the new year off right! Click here to download a summer packet.  (Posted 6/24/09)

Horseman Club

Some students were invited to join the Horseman Club for the Summer of 2009 (so you don't lose your head over the summer!)

If you worked with a Reading Teacher and became part of the Horseman Club, here is where you can find additional copies of what you received from Ms. Schoenberg, Ms. Kedem, Ms. Dal Ceredo, Ms. Krafft, Ms. Martins, Ms. Argutto, or Ms. Smith.

To prevent us from losing our heads over the summer, all club members will:

• keep track of our daily reading on the attached reading log

• complete the summer activities below and hand them in to the club leaders in one of 3  ways:

o        In person: drop them off at your school office

o        By Mail:  you can mail them to the club leaders:

Horseman Summer Club
      TUFSD
      200 North Broadway
      Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591

o        By e-mail: you can e-mail your work to the club leaders at horsemanclub@tufsd.org

• meet up at the Warner Library on Thursdays (July 9 through August 20) at 1:15 PM for the weekly read-aloud

• celebrate our head-full summer in September with a special Club Celebration, complete with awards and prizes  (Posted 6/24/09)

  ---

Tarrytown Teachers Telling Tales

Join teachers, principals and administrators from your school on Thursdays at the Warner Public Library

Thursdays
1:15 – 1:45
July 2 – August 20
Warner Public Library

Educators from the Tarrytown School District will conduct a read aloud of one of their favorite books every Thursday from July 2 to August 20 from 1:15 – 1:45 PM.  Come and enjoy a Tarrytown teacher telling a tale – then stay afterwards for help in finishing your Summer Activity Packet, or for the library’s weekly craft table, and browse the shelves to borrow a book to add to your summer reading log.  Escape the heat of the summer for a cool time in your air-conditioned public library.

The Warner Library is located at 121 North Broadway at Wildey Street (near the C-Town).   Residents of Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, nonresidents of Westchester County who work or go to school in Tarrytown or Sleepy Hollow, may register for a free library card. Proof of your current address is required. Children may register for library cards in the Children's Room.  Warner Library policy states that children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult or responsible teen 15 years or older while in the library. Special thanks to the staff of the Children’s Room at the Warner Public Library and the teacher volunteers of the Teachers’ Association of the Tarrytowns for making this program possible. (Posted 6/24/09)

See Local Teens in Concert

Catch Friends and Classmates - Members of The Warner Library's Teen Songwriting Workshop - performing their original songs this Third Friday @ the Tarrytown Firehouse, June 19TH, 6 - 8 pm, between band sets.  Lend your support and applause. (Posted 6/15/09)

Teen Movie Night @ The Warner

Come to Teen Movie Night at the Warner Library and see 'Naruto Shippuuden', the film version of the popular graphic novel, Friday, June 26th, 6 - 8:30 PM.  Snacks and a Raffle included. (Posted 6/15/09)

General Meeting

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

JOHN PAULDING SCHOOL

6:45 – 7:00 p m

- 2009 / 2010 EPTA Board of Directors VOTE -
Come meet the candidates and cast your vote

7:00 – 8:00 p m
What Children Learn from Their Parents’ Marriage and Relationships

Presented by Dr. Barbara Kapetanakes, LSDS PhD

Dr. Kapetanakes works with individuals across the age span.  She writes for the River Journal, is president of the Westchester County Psychological Association, and has a post-doc in neuropsychology.   

You do not need to be a member to attend our meetings –

Our meetings are open to all!

* Spanish translation & Complimentary Child Care will be provided *

.(Posted 6/10/09)

Free Songwriting Workshop

Join a free songwriting workshop this spring @ the Warner Library -  4 classes:  May 2, May 19, June 2, and June 16, from 4 - 5:30 PM conducted by New York City songwriter/performer Elizabeth Rose.  No experience necessary - just bring your creativity and enjoy this great opportunity to learn how to structure a song and express your inner self.  Call the library for more info and to register at 914-631-7734.(Posted 4/29/09)

African American Heritage Club Trip to Egypt

During the recent spring break, the African American Heritage Club of Sleepy Hollow Middle/High School sponsored its traditional trip to the continent of Africa.  In the past we've visited, West Ghana, South Africa, and now Egypt.  The trip was chaperoned by its co-advisors, Dr. Cheryl Burton and Gabrielle Carty along with, Nancy Checchi, Gregory Large, Lara Vivolo, Leila Madani and Clare Hekestadt.  There were twelve well-behaved students who traveled on the trip as well.

The trip was organized by EZ Travel Company and MISR Travel, who put us in touch with our wonderful tour guide Sayed aka: Rambo, who was informative, caring and the perfect liaison to the amazing country of Egypt.

Highlights of the trip were: visiting the Museum of Cairo, marveling at the ancient Pyramids of Giza, visiting the tomb of King Tut, Queen Hatshepsut and Akhnaton. We sailed on a falluca (small boat) down the Nile, took pictures of the Aswan Dam, rode through the streets of Aswan late at night in a horse and carriage and cruised for four days and three nights down the slow moving Nile River. We even managed to cross the streets of Cairo, where the traffic is the wildest in the world.  We dined on their finest cuisine, morning, noon and night and danced to the Egyptian beat. 

Many of us feel this was the most amazing, memorable trip the AAHC has ever sponsored. These memories will last a lifetime. (Posted 4/23/09)

TUFSD Staff Rose to the Go Green Challenge

During the week of March 9th, Green Committee members tracked the paper used to make copies at each building in the district.  We compared those numbers to averages taken earlier in the year and were looking to see which building could reduce its paper use by the greatest percent.  It was a CLOSE contest, but Washington Irving won with a remarkable 40% reduction in paper used to make copies.  The staff at Washington Irving will soon be enjoying free COFFEE LABS coffee and have our congratulations!  We are most thrilled to report that, as a whole, the district reduced our paper use by 35% during this week.  That is fantastic and we hope that staff continue the good behaviors that led to this reduction!  Congratulations to all staff for your participation and hard work!  To read more about the results of the challenge, click here.   (Posted 3/19/09)

Because giving to our community does not have to be just once a year, the EPTA is working with  A NU TOY STORE and placing a “Birthday Box” in their store.

You may drop off new toys or a donation of money to purchase toys. The gifts will then be wrapped and given to local needy children on their birthday.

This program will be for all of 2009 (we’ll make sure the children who had birthdays in January and February aren’t left out!), but please make donations earlier rather than later. A very small way to make a very big difference!

Please drop toys and donations off at:
A NU TOY STORE
36.5 Main Street
Tarrytown, NY
914-372-7144
Open Everyday But Monday

*Thank you in advance for your support. Please direct any questions to Angel Rafter at 372-7144 or loganandjack@optonline.net.
*Thanks to first grader Logan for coming up with this wonderful idea!  (Posted 3/9/09)

The Green Committee CHALLENGES each building in the district to REDUCE PAPER USE!  

Green Committee Members have been tracking paper use at each building and have calculated an average weekly paper use based on January and early February:

Building Weekly Paper Use (sheets per week)

Tappan Hill           10,500 sheets per week
John Paulding       12,100 sheets per week
W. L. Morse          32,000 sheets per week
W.I.                      47,700 sheets per week
SHMS & SHMS     89,000 sheets per week
District Admin        19,000 sheets per week

During the week of March 9th, the building that reduces its paper use by the greatest percent compared to its average will win our first      REDUCE OUR USE challenge.

The winning building will receive glory, honor, and
FREE COFFEE LABS COFFEE!

To read more about what the Green Committee is up to, visit our blog (www.tufsdblogs.org/gogreen). (Posted 3/2/09)

Summer Arts Camp

Registration is now closed for the Multi Arts Camp.There are still slots for the Open Call Drama Camp, led by Tarrytown's own Peter Royston. Join us for a week of theatre games, improvs and fun activities, culminating in a mini-performance.  The program meets the week of June  29-July from 9:30am-2:30pm at Morse School, for students entering grades 4-6.

For more information, contact Alison Paul at apaulconsultant @gmail.com
Click here for flyer  (Posted 5/12/09)

Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns largest Fundraiser to offer lower ticket prices; event to be held on May 9^th, 2009 at the new Double Tree Hotel in Tarrytown

The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns announces its 15^th Annual Dinner Dance & Auction, Saturday, May 9, 2009, at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown. The dinner dance is the largest fundraiser for the Foundation’s programs.

Every effort has been made to keep the event affordable. Ticket prices have been rolled back by 25% to encourage people to come. “Even in this difficult year, we are committed to continuing this event and the programs that it funds. We have been negotiating with local businesses to keep the event affordable,” says Mary McBride,  foundation board member  “We welcome participation from anyone wanting to help. It’s a great way to become involved in the community.”

 “For our 15^th Annual event we decided to focus on the theme of It Takes a Village… or two (referring to Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow) as so many people have contributed to our efforts,” says Shelly Colley, foundation administrator. “Over the life of the foundation, we have seen a tremendous increase in district awareness of the challenges facing our schools, and of the need to find alternate sources of funding for programs that the school budgets can’t cover.”

Andres Valdespino, president of the Foundation and former school board member, agrees. “The purpose of the Foundation is to encourage and enhance academics, athletics, the arts, technology and other programs. We have a longstanding commitment to funding technology, language arts, and literacy programs. The Foundation may be asked to fund seed money to help launch new programs; it also can be tapped for funding when other sources run dry. We anticipate these needs to increase exponentially over the next few years.”

The Foundation needs community support more than ever. “We are acutely aware of the difficulties facing the families in our district. School budgets are facing drastic cuts from the state, and cutbacks will have to be negotiated. We are committed to helping where we can, and increasing our funding if necessary to help cushion the loss of school programs,” says Mary.. “Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow residents would be impressed at the acceptance rate of our graduating seniors, and the schools they are attending. We have students going on to careers in science, engineering, journalism, filmmaking, and athletics among other studies, and many of them are receiving college scholarships to further their studies. Enhancing their scholastic experience strengthens their scholastic opportunities.”

“The Foundation Dinner Dance is an occasion for local parents to get together and have fun outside of school functions. People enjoy themselves so much we can never get them to the dinner tables,” says Shelly.

For further information contact Shelly Colley at the Foundation for the Public Schools of the TarrytownsP: 366-8457; Foundation@tufsd.org: www.tufsd.org/foundation         (Posted 2/12/09)

The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns is seeking nominations of people in our community to be honored at its annual  Dinner Dance and Auction.  This year’s event will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Tarrytown on May 9, 2009.

Criteria: Potential honorees must have volunteered their time in order to enrich and enhance the educational experiences of the students in the public schools of the Tarrytowns.

All submissions will be kept strictly confidential and should be sent to Shelly Colley, foundation@tufsd.org, or call 366-8457.

Please take the time to nominate our volunteers!

In the upcoming weeks, we will be posting more information about this event, including news about lower ticket prices and a new venue.  (Posted 2/5/09)

Attention Parents/Guardians of Upcoming Middle School Students:

Middle School Principal Elizabeth Lopez is asking parents to email (elopez@tufsd.org) any questions/concerns they may have regarding their child’s transition to the middle school.  We will try to address your questions and/or concerns, and all questions will be kept confidential.

“We are in the process of finalizing plans concerning your child’s move to Sleepy Hollow Middle School. Whether you have a question about classes, sports, band or orchestra, or even logistics regarding transportation to and from school, we will try to have the answers”, said Principal Lopez.   “The more questions we receive from parents, the better prepared we will be to ensure that all children have a smooth transition to middle school,” Ms. Lopez added.

Also, please don’t forget about the upcoming Middle School parent orientations in March being held in our school auditorium – March 4^th at 6:30 for incoming 6^th grade parents and March 9^th at 6:30 for incoming 7^th grade parents. (Posted 2/4/09)

The String Chamber Ensembles to Perform

The string chamber ensembles of Sleepy Hollow Middle and High School will be performing a variety of quartet pieces at their annual performance at the Neighborhood House in Tarrytown next Thursday, February 12 at 1:00 P.M.  These groups will also be joined by the Washington Irving chamber ensemble as well.  Parents are welcome to join the seniors in the audience if they are able to. (Posted 2/2/09)