....And We're Off and Running!
I hope everyone’s school year is off to a great start! I love being back in a routine, especially with weather that’s been just about perfect for soccer practices and walks to school.
As the school board bounces into full gear, I’m delighted to share exciting updates, with a continuing focus on Educational Excellence, Student Well-Being, and Communication. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns!
Educational Excellence
Preparations for Full Day Kindergarten will continue this year with expected implementation in the Fall of 2026.
Enrollment in CR’s Special Education Program has risen substantially over the last decade. We will continue to focus on making sure students are in environments where they can thrive. Special Education Services will now present at every Education Committee meeting, and offer occasional special presentations such as the one on September 24th that featured PaTTAN (Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network) and the PA Department of Education.
Student Well-Being
During the summer months, we completed several small projects that included replacing carpets and repaving parking lots. Large construction projects such as new playgrounds and school renovations are ongoing. On September 25th, Sol Feinstone Elementary held a ribbon cutting ceremony, celebrating the completion of their renovation.
Many of our students started the school year with new playgrounds and refreshed cafeterias. In October, new Aramark menus will go into effect.
In the Policy Committee, we’re conducting a systematic review of all district policies, beginning with those mandated by the state and those related to students. We’ll then go through the remaining policies, and set up a review cycle—a first-time practice for our district.
Communication
Did you know Council Rock sets up a Transportation Call Center at the beginning of each school year to answer questions from parents? Based on the low call volume this year, I’m pleased to report that Transportation was off to a hitch-free start and smooth bus rides! If you have a question about your child’s bus, contact transportation@crsd.org and they will respond quickly.
I’d welcome your feedback on another topic: The Chancellor Center
The building houses all 75 administration and staff employees, and is historically important as the original Newtown School and only remaining Council Rock structure in Newtown. Sadly, deferred maintenance has led to some significant issues, ranging from drainage and water damage in the basement, to the need for a building reconfiguration and electrical updates. I’d be disappointed for the district to lose the Chancellor Center, but the repair costs are beyond the budget, so we’re exploring alternative funding options. If you have ideas for grants, donations or other funding ideas, email me at tracey.osecki@crsd.org.
Our next School Board Meeting is on Thursday, October 17th at 7:00, 30 North Chancellor St., Newtown. Come and share your ideas on improving the district.
Warmly,
Tracey Osecki