Families and Community Members,
I know this time of year can be challenging for many folks. The sun doesn’t shine often, we are experiencing a lack of snow and lots of ice that is making it challenging to enjoy our natural world and many of us have been stricken by the flu and other illnesses. I hope that folks can find support if they are feeling low and offer support to others if they have the capacity to do so.
One of the things that bring me joy and hope are the students. I was able to attend a recent basketball game for our 5th and 6th grade team. It was such a pleasure to see them compete, work together, and push themselves physically. At this point in their athletic career, it’s not so much about the wins and losses, but more about developing their skills to become better each time they take to the court. The same holds true in the classroom. As educators, we value hard work and determination. We want our students to be challenged, overcome failures, and improve their skills day in and day out. I see this happening on a daily basis and it brings me a sense of pride that I’m privileged to experience. One of the biggest takeaways that I want our students to leave Sharon Elementary with is that being challenged is not a bad thing. In fact, it is being challenged, and overcoming those challenges, that make us stronger. As parents and caregivers, my hope is that you can send this message to your children as well.
On March 6th, at 7:00 pm, we will host our annual school meeting to discuss and vote on the school budget for the 2023-2024 school year. I’ve been working on the budget, along with Superintendent Jamie Kinnarney and Supervisory Union’s business manager Tara Weatherell since October. I want to encourage folks to come to the school meeting to learn about what makes up our school budget, what are the things that we can control and what are the areas that we cannot. The bottom line is that the elementary school makes up a small portion of the increase in our budget. The majority of the increase is driven by secondary tuition costs that are not in our control. Meaning, since we are a school choice town, the schools that we send our students to determine how much their tuition is and we have to pay that. I say this because I want people to know that when we are asked to reduce our budget, the elementary school is often the only place where costs can be reduced. And, as I stated already, the elementary side of the budget is a small portion of any increase. I’m happy to meet with anyone who would like to know more about the budget process. Please reach out to me if you have any questions.
Folks may have seen a recent article in the Valley News about a possible expansion project for the school. This idea is in its infancy stages. A committee has been formed to discuss the needs that we currently face in terms of space and functionality, to look at long-term goals, and to decide what our next steps, if any, are needed to address these issues. Once the committee completes its work, they will make a recommendation to the board.
Please reach out with any questions, thoughts, or concerns that you may have. Here’s to more sunny days and a little more snow to romp around in!
Respectfully,
Keenan Haley
Principal
Sharon Elementary
