Dear Clarence School Family,

Like all of you, we have spent the past week with Damar Hamlin in our thoughts and prayers. What happened on Monday night was difficult to watch, and I know that for many it has raised questions about what safety measures exist for student-athletes here in Clarence.

At a basic level, we have multiple Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) which are located in each of our buildings. The devices are tested regularly by our Buildings and Grounds Department as well as the BOCES Health and Safety Risk Department, and our protocols for use are outlined in our written “Emergency Action Plan for Clarence Central School District Athletics Program.” Additionally, our school nurses, coaches, and athletic trainer all have active AED, CPR, and First Aid certifications—credentials that are also maintained by many members of our faculty and staff.

In the days ahead, keep sending positive thoughts to #3 and his family, and know that we are committed to doing all we can to keeping our kids safe here in Clarence.

Wall of Fame Nominations

To honor former members of our school community, the High School has established an Academic Wall of Fame. The program is designed to highlight individuals who have achieved distinction through professional, civic, or humanitarian service, and anyone may submit a nomination. 

If you know someone who stands out in one of the following categories, I would encourage you to consider nominating them by February 1^st. (Click this link.)

• Excellence in their chosen field
• Meritorious service to a humanitarian cause
• Significant contribution to the community

Support Staff Critical to Success

While Western New Yorkers were digging out after the blizzard over Holiday Break, members of our Buildings and Grounds Department spent days clearing snow and walkways here at school. The undertaking meant time away from family and friends, and the commitment was a reminder that “No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.”

Indeed, here in Clarence, the success of our school “orchestra” is due in large part to the expertise and dedication of our world-class support staff. From bus drivers to teacher aides, cleaners to clerical experts, nurses to technology specialists, the members of our Red Devil support staff are quite simply the best in the business.

In short, our support staff teammates are proof that not all heroes wear capes. They are our neighbors, our friends, and our family members, and they are critical for our continued success here in Clarence.

Bright Spot

Every now and again, it’s nice to highlight a real “Bright Spot” at #ClarenceProud as a reminder of all the good things that are going on in our school community. A few days ago, I received an email from a gentleman named EMS Lieutenant Christopher Watson of the Main-Transit Fire Department. Mr. Watson shared that over Holiday Break, three of our High School students spent a tremendous amount of time supporting the firefighting, EMS, and warming shelter operations during the most recent winter storm. Matthew Zak, Michael Zak and Nathan Knolhoff are all Junior Firefighters, and they are important examples of how our students volunteer to help keep our community safe.

If you are anything like me, you are still having a hard time believing the year is 2023. There is a saying that “The bad news is that time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.” As we begin a new 365-day journey together, please know how much we appreciate your support as “co-pilots” when it comes to teaching and learning here in Clarence. 

Finally, if you are looking to get excited for the game this weekend, check out this quick clip from the Clarence Center Morning Program. GO BILLS!

Have a safe and relaxing weekend, Red Devils.

Matt Frahm
Superintendent of Schools