1️⃣ Students are back!

The 2025–2026 school year kicked off with excitement as students filled our halls with energy, laughter, and smiles. From the first day greetings to reconnecting with friends, our community is ready for a year of growth, learning, and joy.

2️⃣ We Turned 65 in Style

This year marks 65 years of excellence at SFDS! Our anniversary celebration was more than a milestone—it was a reminder of the generations of students, educators, and families who have shaped our school’s legacy.

3️⃣ We opened Brooklyn’s first Deaf & DeafBlind Museum & Research Center

History was made on September 12 as we unveiled a museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating Deaf and DeafBlind history and culture. The ribbon was cut by Sister Joanne Fullner (Executive Director, 1981–1992), joined by former Executive Director Mr. Edward McCormack (1992–2011) and current Executive Director Dr. Jodi L. Falk.

4️⃣ Leaders Showed up in Full Force

We were honored to welcome Assemblymembers Phara Souffrant Forrest, Jo Anne Simon, Robert C. Carroll, Stefani Zinerman and Council Member Crystal Hudson and Deputy Borough President Rev. Kim Council.

Our SFDS Board President Dr. Maria Hartman, along with DeafBlind and Deaf Disabled Children of Tomorrow Board Members Bryan Ward, Lia Bautista, and Jaarad Hakim, joined us to celebrate this powerful moment in our history.

And, what a treat, NYPD Community Affairs team came out to show support. Thank you!

5️⃣ We are Rooted in Community + Updating Our Facilities

• $400,000 donation from Assemblymember Forrest’s office to support vital repairs and accessibility needs at SFDS.

• Meet the Team Potluck- Families will gather this month to celebrate students and culture with a community dinner, where everyone brings a dish representing their family’s heritage.

• September is Deaf Awareness Month and Hispanic Heritage Month, and we’re proud to celebrate the cultures, languages, and stories that make our community so vibrant.

💙 Thank you to our students, families, staff, alumni, and friends for making this year unforgettable already.

With 65 years behind us and so much ahead, the best is yet to come!

Until next time,

St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf (SFDS)