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Update from Clarence CSD April 4, 2025

Update from Clarence CSD April 4, 2025
Updated

Dear Clarence School Family,

Last week, I shared that our Academy of Business and Finance (AOBF) Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy raised $16,174 in an online auction to support the Courage of Carly Fund at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. The achievement speaks volumes about the group’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, and it’s a powerful example of what young people can accomplish when given the opportunity to lead and serve.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that their success wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of our local businesses here in Clarence. Many of the auction items were donated by these businesses, and winning bids were often submitted by area owners.

In fact, each year numerous school groups benefit from the support of local organizations. Whether donating gift baskets for raffles, sponsoring special events, or contributing food to school celebrations, businesses in our community regularly step up to provide items, services, and experiences. Their generosity plays a crucial role in helping our District provide enrichment experiences for students, and we recognize that their kindness doesn’t come without personal expense.

As we move into the final months of the school year, we encourage everyone to show appreciation for the businesses that support our schools. If you see a company that has donated to a fundraiser, we ask that you thank them. If you have a chance, consider supporting their business in return. These partnerships are what make our community strong.

Updates from Albany

If you follow political happenings in Albany, you likely know that the State is still in the process of negotiating its budget. Fortunately, it does not appear that school aid is a point of controversy this year, and we are optimistic the State will ultimately provide the resources necessary for schools like Clarence to maintain their existing programs and services. It is worth noting, however, that the Governor’s proposed restrictions on cellphones in schools does seem to be picking up traction. A number of other states have already implemented student cellphone bans or restrictions, and it is unclear as to where New York State will ultimately land. As always, if you have an interest in contacting an elected official, we encourage you to visit the Legislative Advocacy section of our website. 

Summer Job Opportunities for Secondary Students

It may seem hard to believe, but the end of the school year will be here in a blink. While Summer Vacation is a great time for relaxation and travel, July and August can also be important opportunities for many of our secondary students to gain experience in the world of work. If you have a child who is going to be a junior, a senior, or who is even a recent Clarence graduate, I encourage you to have them apply for one of our Summer Laborer positions. The 32-40 hour a week jobs usually run from the middle of June to the end of August, and they involve things like moving furniture, cleaning, painting, and helping to take care of our athletic fields. 

Get Ready to “Spring into Reading”

If you are looking for something fun to do tomorrow, 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 leading activities involving bookmark design, a History Museum tour, the creation of picture books, and a vocabulary scavenger hunt.

Harris Hill Students Make a Splash with Disney’s Finding Nemo JR.

Harris Hill students are set to bring Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. to life this weekend. With 65 fourth and fifth graders in the cast (and another 15 in the crew), our Huskies have spent months rehearsing for their performances. The show, which will coincide with Harris Hill’s Night of the Arts, will give students a chance to build confidence, work together, and develop new skills. Additional information can be found on our website, and we hope to see you there!

Enjoy the Weekend!

From Clarence Center’s annual trip to St. Luke’s Mission of Mercy, to Ledgeview’s Silent Disco, to Sheridan Hill’s Leadership Night, it’s been another busy week for our Red Devils. Hope you have a safe and relaxing weekend.

Matt Frahm
Superintendent of Schools
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