Update from Clarence CSD March 19, 2026

Dear Clarence School Family,

Because our students will not be in school tomorrow due to a planned Staff Conference Day, I thought I would send out a handful of updates a day early. However, I did want to give a final plug for our annual Faculty/CSEF Basketball Game tonight in the High School Gymnasium. Whether you have the Red or Black team advancing in your March Madness Bracket, the event is sure to be a ton of fun. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. and tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Hope to see you there!

AOBF Students Lead the Way for Kids Fighting Cancer

Our Academy of Business and Finance (AOBF) students are once again supporting the Courage of Carly Fund at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, which helps fund research and programs for children battling cancer and blood disorders. This year’s online auction runs from now until Monday (March 23), and we invite you to either make a donation or place a bid in the days to come.

Last year, thanks to the generosity of our school community and local businesses, our students surpassed their goal, raising more than $16,000. We are so grateful to the businesses that donate items and to the families who participate. Your support not only makes a real difference for children and families in need, but also reflects the caring spirit that makes our District so special.

2026-2027 School Calendar Approved 

On Monday evening, our Board of Education approved the 2026-2027 school calendar. If you are starting to think about planning for future trips or childcare, you can access the document by clicking this link.

A Lucky Day to Be a Red Devil

Students and staff kicked off the week expressing a bit of the Luck of the Irish, but on Monday, we all felt especially fortunate as members of our Board of Education spent time with students in Mr. Chambers’ Advanced Placement Research class, hearing firsthand about their curiosity and critical thinking. That same evening, the Board enjoyed the first concert from our new Unified Music Class, experiencing both the talent and joy of inclusivity that make the program so special. It was a reminder that in our schools, we don’t need luck to see excellence—we’re surrounded by it every day.

Updates from Albany

If you follow political happenings in Albany, you likely know that the State is still in the process of negotiating their budget. While Governor Hochul put out her executive proposal back in January, a few days ago, the Assembly and the Senate both released their on-house budget bills. We were pleased to see that they both expressed support for a minimum foundation aid increase of 2% for all school districts (more than the 1% minimum proposed by the Governor), and we are hopeful our elected officials will ultimately fund schools appropriately in the 2026-2027 school year. I’ll be joining State Senator Gallivan and a group of Erie County school superintendents tomorrow to talk about the budget, and I would invite anyone in our school community to advocate on their own using the contact information on our website.

Supporting Your Student Athlete’s Mental Health

At 7:00 p.m. on March 25, our Athletic Department will be hosting “Your Athlete’s Wellness On and Off the Field,” a parent program designed to help caregivers better understand and support the mental health of high school student-athletes. Parents will learn why mental health is just as important as physical health in sports, how to recognize potential warning signs, and practical ways to support their child both on and off the field. The program will also share strategies for encouraging open communication, building resilience, and helping student-athletes thrive in sports and in life. Interested parents can register by clicking this link—we hope to see you there.

Get Ready to “Spring into Reading”

If you are looking for something fun to do on Saturday (March 21), please stop by the Clarence Town Clubhouse (10405 Main Street) to “Spring into Reading.” The event is made possible by a number of community organizations, and it will involve our Family Support Center (FSC) and our High School Advanced Placement (AP) classes facilitating different stations and conducting read alouds. Registration isn’t required, but it is requested to help with planning.

World Down Syndrome Day

If you notice anyone wearing mismatched socks on Saturday, there is a good chance they are celebrating World Down Syndrome Day. For those who may not be aware, the occasion is an important opportunity to celebrate the unique abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome. By acknowledging the day here in Clarence, we can continue fostering a welcoming learning environment in which all students experience a sense of mastery, joy, belonging, and respect. For a family-friendly way to celebrate, consider attending a community event from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Duke’s Tavern on Saturday.

Finally, as our Muslim students, staff, and community members near the end of Ramadan, this weekend marks a special time for celebrating the conclusion of the fasting period, Eid al-Fitr. If this is part of your faith tradition, please know our school community is wishing you peace, safety, and good health.

Wishing you a safe and relaxing weekend, Red Devils.

Matt Frahm
Superintendent of Schools
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