Update from Clarence CSD October 17, 2025

Dear Clarence School Family,

Every now and again, it’s important for us to share how we’re thinking about emerging topics impacting K-12 education. Right now, it’s no surprise that artificial intelligence (AI) is at the top of the list when it comes to innovations reshaping how we work, communicate, and solve problems. Because school communities can’t afford to ignore the changes associated with AI, it’s key that we move forward in a thoughtful and responsible way. With that in mind, we wanted to provide a quick update on how we’re approaching this topic, and to reinforce our commitment to integrating AI in a way that puts the interests of students first.

Nearly a year ago, our Board of Education identified AI exploration as an organizational goal. This commitment was later echoed by our Strategic Planning Committee as it discussed the importance of balancing progress with purpose. Since then, we’ve focused our energy on providing a range of professional learning opportunities for staff and on forming an AI Integration Team to help identify appropriate tools, review best practices, and explore expectations as well as limitations for our school community.

Moving forward, we’ll provide periodic updates on how we plan to use AI to enhance teaching and learning in Clarence. Although the topic is incredibly complex, one thing is simple—we all share a collective responsibility when it comes to helping students become capable users of AI who can apply it thoughtfully and ethically on whatever path they choose to follow.

If you’re looking for helpful resources about AI and students, I might suggest exploring materials from Common Sense Media. The organization is well-respected in education, and it offers a number of valuable resources for both parents and teachers.

Substitutes Wanted: Come Join Our Team

Research says that students will spend nearly six months of their school career with substitute teachers, making this role an important driver of academic success. Because skilled educators are key to student achievement, we are seeking motivated, responsible individuals to join our substitute team. Substitutes help keep learning on track, support classroom routines, and ensure students stay engaged when teachers are absent. Whether you’re a retired educator, college student, or community member interested in working with children, this is a meaningful opportunity to make a difference. To learn more, check out this page on our website.

Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Musical Events

If you have a child who participates in Band, Orchestra, or Vocal Music, please make sure to review the 2025-2026 Concerts & Events section of our website for upcoming performance dates. Our Music Department is quite simply the best around, and I promise you won’t be disappointed once you hear what our students are able to produce.

A Day of Middle School Fun and Friendship

Recently, sixth graders had the chance to build connections and strengthen community at the new Camp Day. Held at the Main Street Town Park, students enjoyed kickball, tag games, four square, and other collaborative activities that encouraged interaction with classmates and teachers. Planned by staff over the summer, the event helped students transition from four different elementary schools into one Middle School. Throughout the day, students worked together on challenges, crafts, and friendly competitions, fostering relationships, school spirit, and a strong sense of belonging for the Class of 2032.

Youth Bureau and Recreation Department to Host Halloween in the Park

If you have students who would enjoy games, crafts, spooky photo ops, and a trunk or treat, please consider stopping by the Halloween in the Park from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. tomorrow (October 18) evening. Hosted by the Clarence Youth Bureau and the Recreation Department, the event will take place in the Large Pavilion of the Main Street Town Park.

Clarence Community Foundation to Host Holiday Photo Fundraiser

I wanted to pass along information on the Holiday Photo Fundraiser that the Clarence Community Foundation will be hosting from 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 8 in our Middle School. We are committed to being good partners with local organizations, and the Clarence Community Foundation is leading the way when it comes to supporting programs and activities that foster youth development in our corner of the world.

Diwali Greetings

We are wishing a Happy Diwali, or Dipawali, to all students, families, and community members who will be celebrating next week. Diwali, India’s biggest and most important holiday, is named for the rows of clay lamps (deepa) lit outside homes, symbolizing the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. This year, the festival begins on Monday, October 20th, and ends on Friday, October 24th. May this Diwali bring beautiful beginnings, renewed hope, and bright days ahead for everyone celebrating.

From art lessons to physics experiments, field trips to Fun Run recovery, it’s been a busy week here at school. Wishing you a safe and relaxing weekend, Red Devils.

Matt Frahm
Superintendent of Schools
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PS: If you’re interested in supporting a great cause while also enjoying time with other Red Devil adults, please consider attending the CSEF Fall Fiesta from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. this Sunday. Click here for more information.