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COMING TOGETHER
This was an incredibly difficult week for all of us as we struggle to cope with the tragedy that took place on Saturday. This unthinkable violent act will continue to affect everyone, especially children. As a school district, we will always do whatever we can to support our students, families, and staff through this difficult time. Counseling and support services will continue to be offered for students in our schools and the Family Support Center (716-874-8510) is always there for the families of our community.
The tragic events that unfolded Saturday brought renewed focus on the need for us as a community to stand united in fierce opposition to hate. Additionally, we are reminded of how important it is that we work together to make safety and security our utmost priority. We will always do whatever it takes to keep our schools safe. This event also serves as a reminder for families to monitor what their children are doing and watching on social media.
Within the last couple of days, we have heard very disturbing reports that videos of the attack are being sent via text message to random phone numbers. We understand that students elsewhere have received these messages, which may be originating in other states or countries. It is important for families to be prepared in case they or their children receive such a message. It is horrible to think that anyone in our community, especially a child, could be subjected to these profoundly traumatizing images. They will never be able to unsee it. Please make sure you and your children do not open text messages from phone numbers you do not recognize.
I am proud of how our entire community has come together and responded in the wake of Saturday’s tragic event. We know many have been wondering how they can help support those directly affected. We sought to create a one-stop shop with information on charities and organizations that have been publicized and are actively involved in raising money for those impacted as well as distributing donations and coordinating various support services.
Buffalo Survivors Fund:
BuffaloTogether Community Response Fund:
- The United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo have initiated this fund to address needs in the community beyond those directly affected and to provide relief and restoration to the Jefferson Avenue community.
- https://www.buffalotogetherfund.org/together/
GoFundMe:
- GoFundMe is a commonly used fundraising platform for individuals and organizations that wish to raise money for various causes. There are many different GoFundMe pages related to Saturday's tragedy, so GoFundMe has created a central hub for verified fundraisers.
- https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/buffalo-mass-shooting-fundraisers
FeedMore WNY:
- FeedMoreWNY (which previously operated as the Food Bank of WNY and Meals on Wheels) is actively involved in collecting and distributing food donations in the affected community.
- https://www.feedmorewny.org/
There are many other wonderful organizations that are working to support the victims as well as their families, loved ones and community. The following articles include information on other organizations and efforts that are underway:
BUDGET VOTE & BOARD OF
EDUCATION ELECTION
On May 17th, voters went to the polls for the annual Budget Vote and Board of Education Election. I am happy to report that the proposed 2022-23 budget was approved with overwhelming support from the community. This budget sets the stage for several exciting initiatives including expansion of our extremely successful Big Picture Program, increased mental health and social emotional support services, technology upgrades, and curriculum enhancements. It also keeps the property tax levy below the tax cap, saving taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The annual bus purchase was also approved with overwhelming support from the community. The goal of the bus purchase is to replace buses incrementally each year. Just like one's personal vehicle, school buses wear down over time. Eventually, it becomes safer and less costly to replace a bus than it is to maintain it. Through the annual bus purchase, we do this in small increments each year to avoid the need for much larger bus purchases. It's important to note that approximately 70 percent of the cost of new buses is covered by the state.
Also at Tuesday’s election, Board President Matthew Chimera and incoming Trustee Paul Spors were elected to the Board of Education. I congratulate President Chimera and Mr. Spors, who will be sworn into office at the July 5th Reorganization Meeting.
Thank you to everyone who turned out to vote and thank you to the entire community for your continued support of our schools.
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