As the school year comes to a close, June is a time of beginnings as much as it is about endings.

In June we have a chance to attend our high school graduations and our employee retirement reception. It is an inspiring time filled with gratitude for what has been and an excitement for what will be. I would like to thank and recognize the work of two departing board members, Trustee Dana and Trustee Potter. Both have devoted time to our students during some of the largest changes our district has ever seen. Because of our retirement incentive and layoffs, we have a unique situation this year where many members of our loyal staff will be departing in ways outside of retirement. To all of you who have given your love, your life, your talent and your time to the children of Ken-Ton, thank you!

This month has brought the groundbreaking for our Phase II Capital Project. The community has shown us time and time again that they understand the value in investing in our public schools to ensure they are healthy, safe, environmentally sound and maintained to support high-quality education. Although many of the discussions regarding the project are usually centered around the externally visible improvements such as bus loops and turf fields, the Board's visitation team has had a chance to see how important the unseen work is to the infrastructure of our buildings. We are excited about the opportunity for repair and upgrade of our facilities! During our walkthroughs, you can sense the pride and commitment from our maintenance and cleaning staff - the Board has a high level of appreciation for what you do every day to keep our buildings clean and in good condition for our students and employees.

To you and yours, wishing you all a healthy, happy summer!

Dr. Jill O'Malley, Board of Education President

Students transitioning to new elementary and middle schools received a very warm welcome at their new schools during special visitation events in April and May. Also, the high schools are introducing a new program, Link Crew, to welcome, orient and mentor incoming eighth- and ninth-graders. Click here to read the story.

Current and former students, teachers, families, alumni and community members at Hamilton Elementary School, Roosevelt Elementary School, and Kenmore Middle School joined together to celebrate the history and legacies of the buildings at three different events in May. Click here to see photos from the events.

The Ken-Ton Summer Music Program will take place from June 27 to July 28, providing students with the opportunity to participate in an ensemble during the summer with rehearsals taking place twice a week. Opportunities for summer beginner music lessons are also available.  Click here to read the story.

The Class of 2016 includes Zack Ball (2008), Kris Boyes (2007), Jennifer Broderick (1997), Justin Craddock (2005), Jim Dunnigan (coach/administrator), Anthony Johnson (2008), Scott Karstedt (1994 graduate), Tim Metivier (2008), Sarah Nadrowski (2009), Patty Stokes (1963) and Gary Tocke (coach).  Click here for induction information.

The 21st annual Ken-Ton Schools Athletic Hall of Fame Golf Tournament will take place Wednesday, July 20 at Sheridan Golf Course with proceeds supporting scholarships for graduating seniors at Kenmore East High School and Kenmore West High School.  Click here for event information.

A committee of teachers, parents, principals and support staff convened during the month of May to explore enhancements to the elementary school day including daily recess as an option.  Click here to visit the committee's page, which includes meeting notes, membership, survey results, and the committee's recommendations.

A total of seven spring varsity teams at Kenmore East and Kenmore West were distinguished with Scholar Athlete Team Awards from the New York State Public High School Athletics Association (NYSPHSAA) for maintaining a team-wide grade point average of at least 90 percent.  Click here to read the story.