Since mid-November our school community has felt the effects of the pandemic and an aging infrastructure. We have experienced our learning model flip between in-person and remote at a moment’s notice. These sudden and all too frequent changes are at best disruptive. While some are able to adjust to the changes with little impact, for others it means the loss of income. For many of our neighbors, the pain goes beyond lost instructional opportunities.
Throughout the course of both day and night, we receive information from staff and families regarding their COVID-19 status. When we are notified that an individual is positive for COVID-19, we immediately begin working with Public Health to identify potential contacts. Sometimes, we are notified at inconvenient times and need to take immediate action. Such was the case on January 25 when we received notification of a positive case after 6:00 a.m. For the health and safety of students and staff, the decision to quickly transition to remote learning for Banford needed to be made.
It is my hope that with increased vaccination, we may soon see the light at the end of this long, dark tunnel. Too many lives have been lost. Too many lives have been shattered. Yet, now is not the time to become complacent. We must remain vigilant in our fight to stop the spread of this disease. While at times my decisions may be difficult and unpopular, I will continue to strive to always put the health and wellbeing of students and staff at the forefront.
Take care
and be well,
Ron Burke
Elementary Updates
Although we do not have field trips this year, thanks to the Nicandri Nature Center, we have recently had exciting virtual field trips in grades 3 and 4. This week, grade 4 did the "Owl Pellets" virtual field trip. As you can see, our students made some great discoveries! Thanks to the Nicandri Nature Center!
Although we do not have field trips this year, thanks to the Nicandri Nature Center, we have recently had exciting virtual field trips in grades 3 and 4. This week, grade 3 did the "Beaks and Feet" program to learn about the adaptations birds use to survive in the wild. The presenter was awesome and our students had a great time!
‘If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.’ MLK, Jr
A perfect day to finally return to in-person learning as we discuss this week’s P2 character strength by celebrating a man that showed the true meaning of PERSEVERANCE.
Gotta love recess when there is snow!!! Check out these snow-lovers from Mrs. Betrus's class!
In Pre-K we’ve enjoyed the snow, learning about Arctic animals, and winter crafts
There’s SNOW fun in the Frog Pond
McKenney Middle School
Congratulations to Matthew Gainey, Winner of the Canton Chamber of Commerce Mask Design!
This year the Canton Chamber of Commerce decided to design a mask instead of a button. Matthew Gainey's snowflake design that he created in Mr. Kiah's art class was chosen as the winner!
Winter gear, school supplies, additional food
If students are in need of winter gear, school supplies or additional food please contact Mrs. Parker in the counseling office at (315) 386-8561 or mparker@ccsdk12.org.
Try the family goal setting printable below as a reflection and planning activity!
Peaceful Schools and Mental Health Association in New York State are excited to release a series of videos highlighting mindfulness strategies for everyone. These easy to follow videos demonstrate practices that we can learn to reduce stress and share with the people we love to support their mental wellness, too. Each video focuses on a mindful practice, explains the physical and mental health benefits, and includes a basic yoga pose to incorporate into the mindful practice as an option.
The High School Environmental Club has continued to meet for outdoor walks (distanced and masked) with the most recent visit to Indian Creek Nature Center for a look at winter tracks and birds. We hope to compete in a virtual event for the Northern Regional Envirothon in the spring. Those interested in joining our group contact Lianna Pront 021lpront@ccsdk12.org or advisor Tom VandeWater tvandewater@ccsdk12.org.
At this time the CTE (Career and Technical Education) teachers would like to announce the recipient of the CTE Student of the Month for December. This student is being honored for notable achievement in CTE courses throughout their high school education. Recipients of this award are recognized for their active participation in at least two or more CTE course offerings while also exemplifying a love of learning, leadership, teamwork, kindness, and effort in achieving academic excellence. Our December CTE Student of the Month is Drew Simser , who will receive a CTE t-shirt and certificate. Congratulations, Drew
Recently the agriculture classes in Canton's CTE Department have been going on field trips....virtually! Students were able to visit SUNY Morrisville's aquatic science center and natural resources program with Dr. Livengood as a tour guide and guest speaker. Students were able to see the various aquatic species being raised, including seahorses. In Career & Finance Management class, students had a virtual guest speaker who spoke about the importance of budgeting and saving money, how to write checks and use credit cards responsibly, and more. Thanks to Mr. Jerry Manor, from SeaComm, for providing his expertise.
Job Openings
Applicants should submit a letter of interest, online application, resume, 3 letters of reference, certification if applicable, and college transcripts to CCSD, Attn: Autumn Brown, 99 State Street, Canton, NY 13617, email abrown@ccsdk12.org or fax, 315-386-1323.
The Canton Central School District is continuously accepting applications for the following positions:
Substitute Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Teacher Aides, School Monitors, Nurses (LPN and RNs), Clerical, Bus Drivers, Custodial Workers, and Food Service Helpers.
Contact the Canton Central District Office or the District webpage for more information, 315-386-8561, ext. 44202 or email: abrown@ccsdk112.org. The application deadline is ongoing for substitute positions.
