Good afternoon Menands Families,
We hope you had a great week. We have a few updates to share with you before you start the weekend.
Yearbooks are currently on sale for $18. They are available for purchase online through Jostens until May 15. Students from our Yearbook Club worked on the publication all year, from writing to photography – thank you for your hard work!
The district hosted a Pre-K Virtual Information Night last night to introduce our program to prospective families. If you are a family with a preschool-age child or know anyone that is and were not able to attend, information is available on our web page.
The PTA is hosting Family Fun Night tonight from 4-6 p.m. here at Menands School. Students will have the opportunity to paint rocks that will become part of a Kindness Rock Garden. The Spring Book Fair will also conclude with a family shopping night during the PTA’s event.
Next Monday May 9, the Board of Education will host the annual Budget Hearing in the Library Media Center at 5:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the school budget proposal that will be up for a vote on May 17. The Board of Education will meet at 6:30 p.m. for their regularly scheduled meeting directly after the hearing, which the public is welcome and encouraged to attend. If unable to attend in person, both meetings will also be livestreamed. More information on the budget proposal and the Board of Education candidates are available on our website.
In addition to the budget and Board of Education vote, we are bringing back our Evening of the Arts showcase on May 17! Students across grade levels will be able to put their artistic talents on display, as artwork will be hung up throughout the school halls in addition to musical performances by students in K-5, as well as our band and chorus. We will be providing more details on the format of this event once we finalize the details.
Last week, the Albany County Department of Health issued a public health advisory due to the rising COVID-19 positivity rate. This advisory recommended that masks be worn in indoor public spaces. Though there has been a significant increase in Albany County, we have not experienced this in our immediate school community. Anyone who wishes to wear a mask indoors is welcomed to do so. Additionally, masks are available to anyone who would like one upon entry to the building. In a continued effort to mitigate the spread at Menands School, please continue to monitor students for symptoms. At-home test kits are available from our school nurse, Diane Roseberger droseberger@menands.org.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. Have a fantastic weekend and enjoy the beautiful weather!
Dr. Long & Mrs. Cannavo