- Need this newsletter in Spanish? Open this webpage and copy the link at the top of the webpage, and then open Google Translate and paste in the link. Select "Spanish" and click the translated link.
- ¿Necesita este boletín en español? Abra esta página web y copie el enlace desde la parte superior de su navegador. Luego, vaya a Google Translate, pegue el enlace, seleccione "español" y haga clic en el enlace traducido.
Leadership Message
- from the Superintendent
As we move through the months of March and April, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the continued progress across our school community and share a look ahead as we approach the final stretch of the school year. This is an important and exciting time, filled with both academic milestones and outstanding opportunities for our students. With the close of the third marking period, our focus now shifts toward end-of-year assessments. Students in grades 3–8 have begun taking their New York State assessments, while our high school students are gearing up for Regents exams. We are proud of the effort our students have demonstrated throughout the year and remain confident in their ability to showcase their learning. As always, we appreciate the support of our families in helping students stay focused and prepared during this time. In March, we had the opportunity to host a truly memorable assembly featuring Tom Varano and his “Emotion into Art” presentation. Through a powerful combination of storytelling and live painting, he brought historical figures to life while delivering an inspiring message about perseverance, mindset, and personal growth. Our students were highly engaged and walked away with a meaningful experience that extended well beyond the classroom. As the weather begins to turn, we are excited to see the start of the spring sports season. Our student-athletes are already hard at work competing in baseball, softball, and golf. We look forward to supporting them throughout the season. I would also like to recognize the incredible success of our spring musical, Emma!. The performance was outstanding and showcased the tremendous talent and dedication of our students and staff. A special thank you and congratulations go out to our senior cast members. Their contributions to our musical program over the years have been exceptional, and this performance served as a fitting and memorable sendoff. As we begin to look toward the end of the school year, we also enter the final stretch of budget season. We remain committed to aligning all budget decisions with our strategic plan goals while continuing to provide the highest quality educational programs in a fiscally responsible manner. We encourage all community members to stay informed and engaged throughout this process. Community forums will be held in Georgetown on May 5th and in Otselic on May 6th, followed by the formal budget hearing on May 7th at the school. We are grateful, as always, for the continued support of our community. Your partnership plays a vital role in the success of our students and our district. Please know that our doors are always open should you have any questions or would like further information.
- Brian Collier
Budget Information & Resources
For more information about the 2026-2027 school budget, please review the resources below.
Elementary Update
As we head into the final stretch of the school year, our elementary students and staff are looking forward to a season filled with engaging learning experiences and fun-filled events. Spring is always a busy and exciting time in our school community! Field Trips Classrooms will be heading out on a variety of field trips designed to extend learning beyond the classroom. These experiences provide students with hands-on opportunities to connect curriculum to the real world. Teachers will be sharing specific details, permission slips, and schedules in the coming weeks. Please be sure to check backpacks and our school Facebook page or district web page regularly. Field Days Our annual Field Days are just around the corner! This is a highlight for many of our students and a wonderful way to celebrate the end of the school year. Each grade level will rotate through a variety of activities such as outdoor games, bounce house fun and much more. More information about field days will be shared soon, along with what students should bring or wear to be prepared. Additional Spring Highlights In addition to field trips and field days, classrooms will continue to showcase student learning through projects, performances and end-of-year celebrations. It’s an exciting time to reflect on growth and accomplishments. We appreciate your continued support in making these experiences meaningful and memorable for our students. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or the main office. Let’s make it a great finish to the school year!
- from Shelly Richards (Pre-K through 12 Principal)
News Recap from the Elementary School
Middle School/High School Update
At Otselic Valley, our classrooms are evolving into places where learning feels less like a checklist and more like a launchpad. Across grades 6–12, we are taking meaningful steps to prepare students not just for graduation, but for life beyond our walls. Transitioning to the Portrait of a Graduate Our district is actively transitioning toward New York State’s Portrait of a Graduate framework, which emphasizes the development of skills alongside academic knowledge. While strong instructional practices already exist in our classrooms, we are expanding opportunities for students to demonstrate learning in new ways. Students are increasingly engaged in:
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Communication and presentation
- Real-world, hands-on learning experiences
This shift reflects a move away from a system centered solely on exams toward one that values creativity, flexibility, and student voice. Through discussions and analysis of existing practices, Otselic Valley is very well prepared to align with the Portrait of a Graduate initiative in the coming years as many classrooms are already practicing the skills required to demonstrate success in the various content areas. Our goal is to ensure every student leaves Otselic Valley prepared to think independently, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to their community. Recognizing Positive Choices: The 6–12 Incentive Program This year, we have continued to build a culture that celebrates positive behavior and student engagement through our 6–12 Incentive Program. The program focuses on recognizing students who:
- Follow school expectations such as compliance with the personal device policy
- Demonstrate responsible behavior but receiving no ISS/OSS suspensions
- Maintain strong attendance and punctuality
So far, 71% of students in grades 6–12 have qualified for at least one incentive, showing a strong commitment to positive habits. Upcoming incentives include:
- A special activity period built into the school day
- A trip to the Syracuse Mets as part of Education Week
These opportunities reinforce the idea that positive choices lead to meaningful and enjoyable experiences. Expanding Community Service Opportunities We are also increasing opportunities for students to connect with and give back to the community. Community service is a key component of both the Seal of Civic Readiness and membership in honor societies, and we are working to ensure all students have access to these experiences. Students will have opportunities to participate in events such as:
- Fishing Heritage Day
- Memorial Day activities
- Local community improvement projects
Through these efforts, students not only fulfill requirements but also build connections, develop leadership skills, and take pride in contributing to their community. Strengthening Instruction Through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) Behind the scenes, our teachers are working collaboratively every day through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to improve instruction and support student success. Current PLC focus areas include:
- Supporting students through MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support)
- Refining grading practices for greater consistency
- Enhancing our WIN (“What I Need”) time to build executive functioning skills
- Analyzing student data to guide instruction
This ongoing collaboration ensures that we are meeting student needs and continuously improving as a district. Looking Ahead The work happening across grades 6–12 reflects a shared commitment to growth, innovation, and student success. By strengthening instruction, recognizing positive behavior, expanding community connections, and aligning with the Portrait of a Graduate, Otselic Valley is building a future where every student has the tools to succeed.
- from Eric Wentworth (Dean of Students, 6-12 Social Studies Teacher)
News Recap from the Middle/High School
Upcoming Events and Reminders
May 1, 2026: National College Decision Day
May 2, 2026: SAT Exam
May 4, 2026: Local Scholarship Applications Due
May 5, 2026: Cinco de Mayo
May 7, 2026: Board of Education Meeting (Budget Hearing)
May 19, 2026: 4-12 Spring Concert
May 19, 2026: District Art Show
May 19, 2026: Board of Education Meeting (Budget Vote Date) (Policy Committee)
May 21, 2026: Shavuot
May 22, 2026: No School
May 25, 2026: Memorial Day, No School Memorial Day Parade, Marching Vikings
June 6, 2026: SAT Exam
June 9, 2026: Regents Exam, ELA
June 10, 2026: Regents Exam, Chemistry & Physics
June 11, 2026: Grade 6-12 Awards Program
June 16, 2026: Last Day for BOCES CTE students
June 16, 2026: Senior walk
June 18, 2026: Elementary Field Day
June 18, 2026: Board of Education Meeting (Transportation/Facilities Committee)
June 19, 2026: Juneteenth, No School
June 24 & 25, 2026: Half Days
June 25, 2026: Last day for OV students
June 25, 2026: Last day for BOCES Special Education students
June 25, 2026: Baccalaureate, South Otselic Methodist Church
June 26, 2026: No School
June 26, 2026: Graduation
Otselic Valley Central School District • P.O. Box 161, 125 County Road 13A • South Otselic, NY 13155
Phone: (315) 653-7218 • Fax: (315) 653-7500