Welcome back, Crusaders! There is nothing more exciting than the start of a brand new school year! On behalf of the Board of Education, I welcome you all to the 2024-2025 school year. We are looking forward to welcoming all students and staff back to our schools as we kick-off another year full of events and activities for our students and families.
We will start the year with many Welcome Back festivities, including Open Houses for all grade levels. These events provide parents/guardians the opportunity to meet their child's teachers and learn about classroom expectations and goals. This connection between parent/guardian and teacher is the true key to a successful school year.
For your reference, I have outlined our Board of Education goals for this school year below. We will be discussing them throughout the year and reporting on progress. I encourage all members of the community to attend Board meetings or watch via livestream to stay up-to-date on district happenings.
Your Board of Education is here in service to our community. We are grateful that our school community has put their trust in us, and we promise to do all in our power to ensure Monroe-Woodbury students have myriad opportunities in an out of the classroom. We recognize that students learn differently, interpret experiences differently and come from different backgrounds. What we, as a Board will work to do this year, is make certain that all Crusaders have guidance and support necessary to guide their next choices in life.
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone in the weeks ahead. Have a wonderful start to the school year, Crusaders!
Sincerely,
Dawn Tauber
Board of Education President
Dear Crusader families
It is with great excitement that I welcome you to the start of the 2024-2025 school year. First, I wish outgoing Superintendent of Schools Elsie Rodriguez a retirement filled with relaxation, joy and many adventures with her beautiful family. She has certainly earned it after serving in this role for a decade. She will be greatly missed.
As of September 1, I will take on the role of Monroe-Woodbury Superintendent of Schools. I have dedicated the summer months (as Deputy Superintendent) getting to know the leadership team, working together to define our goals and plans for the new school year, and connecting with community members. We will have many opportunities throughout the school year to become acquainted, beginning with Open Houses and other events that mark the start of the new year. I look forward to meeting everyone who makes up this wonderful community and am excited to see all that we will accomplish for our deserving students together.
A big thanks to our hardworking buildings and grounds crew, who have spent the summer readying the buildings for students' return. The floors are shining, fresh paint is on the walls, and classrooms are sparkling. All we are missing are our students and staff!
We have many exciting initiatives planned for this school year. We will share more information as the year progresses. There is much to look forward to in Monroe-Woodbury.
It's going to be a great year!
Warm regards,
Tracy Norman
Deputy Superintendent
Christine Arlt
Title: Principal, Smith Clove Elementary
Job Responsibilities: Making sure our children, families and faculty have a great learning experience in a welcoming, friendly and safe environment.
Previous experience at M-W: Principal at Central Valley Elementary School, AP at Central Valley, Teacher gr. 2, 4, 5 Central Valley.
What excites you most about your new role? Learning and having a great time with our youngest learners and their families!
Michael Barone
Title: Principal, Central Valley Elementary
Job Responsibilities: I see myself as a supportive leader who strives to work in partnership with parents and staff as we guide every student in the direction of positive academic, social and emotional experiences while at CVE. These experiences will extend from the bus stop each morning, extend throughout the school day in the classroom, and continue until drop off at the end of the school day.
Previous experience at M-W: I have fond memories of my 15 years at CVE where I served as the Assistant Principal. Prior to my time at CVE, I worked at Monroe-Woodbury High School where I was the Assistant Principal of House A.
What excites you most about your new role? I am thrilled to work with Marisol Jackson, CVE Assistant Principal, as we welcome our students and staff back this September. Meeting our returning students, the incoming second graders and all of our new entrants is very exciting and I can not wait for the school year to begin!
Kesha Carra
Title: MWMS Assistant Principal
Job Responsibilities: Provide instructional and administrative leadership to the teaching staff, oversee the implementation of the curriculum, coordinate assessments, and monitor students' academic performance. Oversee Classified personnel, Special Education Department and Social Studies Department.
Previous experience: Prior to MW, I was a Special Education teacher for 16 years. I decided to move on to an administrative role. I was an an Assistant Principal and the Principal at Hilltop School in Rockland BOCES.
What most excites you about your new role? In my previous role as a Principal, I was far removed from students. In this role, I have facetime with students and it does not impact how I effectuate change as an administrator. I am most excited about the role I play in shaping the minds of our young people.
Kellyann Coffey
Title: Assistant Director of Transportation
Job Responsibilities: Assists in maintaining files for DMV, DOT, SED as required and files forms on state deadline. Acts as a liaison between district and contracted school bus companies. Validates payroll vouchers for all Transportation Employees. Directly oversees the dispatch department and employees in all areas. Assists Building Principals in whatever capacity may be needed.
Previous experience at M-W: I have been with Monroe Woodbury for 15 years. I started as a Bus Driver then Head Bus Driver on to Dispatcher and now Assistant Director.
What excites you most about your new role? To be a part of a team that is dedicated to the safety and progress of our students each and every day.
Randi Connolly
Title: Director of Secondary Special Education
Job Responsibilities/Experience: I began my career in Monroe-Woodbury as an inclusion teacher in 6th grade at the middle school. Those early years were a learning experience, filled with challenges and triumphs that laid the foundation for everything that followed. I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable growth that occurs when we support each student’s unique needs.
From there, my path led me to work in our Life Skills program where I learned the true meaning of dedication and resilience. During that time, I had the honor of opening the Crusader Cafe at the middle school—a project that not only provided valuable life skills but also fostered a sense of community and accomplishment among our students.
As I transitioned into the role of Department Chair, I took on the responsibility of guiding and supporting our incredible team. It has been my pleasure to collaborate with such dedicated professionals and to work together towards our shared goals. Now, as I step into the role of Director of Secondary Special Education, I am both honored and excited to continue my journey in Monroe Woodbury. My focus remains steadfast on ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and that our programs provide the support they need to thrive.
I have had the privilege of growing alongside this community, not just as an educator but also as a parent. I’ve raised my daughters here, and I’ve watched them flourish in an environment that I have come to cherish deeply. The values, support, and spirit of Monroe-Woodbury have shaped my own family’s experiences and my professional journey. I will always be so proud to be purple.
Nicki Cook
Title: Director of Education Support Services
Job Responsibilities: Support building leaders and district administration in collecting and analyzing data to inform academic decisions and improve student outcomes. Work with others to report required information to New York State.
Previous experience at M-W: I started as a Music Teacher over twenty years ago before taking on the District Music Coordinator's position. From there I was the Assistant Principal and then Principal of Smith Clove Elementary School.
What excites you most about your new role? Working with all stakeholders from PreK to Graduation. I look forward to rewarding and dynamic conversations about how to make Monroe-Woodbury the best it can be and help everyone have a legacy they are proud of.
Roger Davis
Title: Principal, North Main Elementary
Job Responsibilities: As the building leader for North Main Elementary School, I collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure that students at North Main and across Monroe-Woodbury receive the best possible education.
Previous experience at M-W: I previously served as the Assistant Principal of North Main Elementary School. In that role I partnered with the former principal, Joe Coto, to support the entire North Main Elementary School learning community.
What excites you most about your new role? I am most excited about continuing the traditions that have made North Main a special place to learn and grow, while also creating new experiences to further enrich our North Main community.
Amanda Greenblatt
Title: Assistant Principal, North Main Elementary
Job Responsibilities: I am looking forward to connecting with the students, staff and the MW community. Under Principal Davis' leadership, I am eager to begin my administrative role in continuing the long and successful legacy of North Main Elementary School.
Previous experience at M-W: A 16-year teacher of French and Spanish, I worked at MWHS since 2017 and traveled with my French classes to Québec in 2019 and 2023. In my tenure, I was the faculty advisor for the Multicultural Club and National Honor Society. I was the Summer School Assistant Principal in 2022 followed by two years as the MWHS & MWMS Summer School Principal.
What excites you most about your new role? I am excited to meet all of my new students and staff members! I look forward to collaborating closely with them and building meaningful relationships with the North Main community.
Marisol Jackson
Title: Assistant Principal, Central Valley Elementary School
Job Responsibilities: I will serve the Central Valley school community. I will support Principal Barone's vision for our school. I will support students, staff and parents so that we can all reach our best professionally, socially and academically. I will do whatever is necessary to help the students thrive.
Previous experience at M-W: I served as the Assistant Principal at the high school.
What most excites you about your new role? I am excited for the opportunity to support positive school culture and be able to celebrate the students and staff. After 25 years of high school experience, I know where the students have to go. I have seen the struggles mentally and academically. I hope to work with the existing staff to create a foundation where parents are comfortable with the school system. I'd like to cultivate a partnership where we work together to support our students, ALL of our students.
Jessie Lazar
Title: Director of Transportation
Job Responsibilities: Oversee the Transportation Department
Previous experience at M-W: I have been with the district since 2003. I started as a school bus driver.
What most excites you about your new role? I'm excited to lead initiatives that improve operation, support our team, and ensure that every student has a safe and positive transportation experience
Jason McElroy
Title: MWHS Principal
Job Responsibilities: As high school principal I am responsible for roughly 2,300 students and 300 faculty/staff. I do not take that responsibility lightly. Overseeing faculty and staff, addressing student needs, and maintaining a safe, inclusive environment are a few of the responsibilities of the high school principal. In addition, curriculum and instruction, operations, and engaging with the community are daily tasks the principal must focus on. The principal is also responsible for crisis management and ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.
Previous experience at M-W: I started as a students' teacher back in the spring of 2009! Since then, I have had the pleasure and experience of working in the following roles; teacher, K12 District Art Coordinator, Summer School Principal, Assistant Principal, and for the last two years, Vice Principal.
What most excites you about your new role? I am excited to continue to work with all of the MWHS stakeholders. My vision for a positive, safe school climate, where all students have the opportunity to achieve academic success is what will motivate me as we navigate the school year.
Kelli Sciarra
Title: MWHS Vice Principal
Job Responsibilities: My primary responsibilities as VP include the master schedule, grade reporting, building wide communication, collecting academic data, and supporting the building principal with various responsibilities. In addition, I will collaborate and support the building assistant principals, and teachers, including the mathematics and science department chairs.
Previous experience at M-W: I started at MWHS as the Dean of Students at the high school in 2022. In 2023, I was the House A Assistant Principal. Prior to my time at MW, I was a mathematics teacher for 14 years, a Teacher on Special Assignment as a grant-funded program facilitator, and a middle school assistant principal.
What most excites you about your new role? I am excited to work on the master schedule in collaboration with Jason McElroy and the school counselors. I am also looking forward to supporting and collaborating with building administrators and teachers throughout the school year. I look forward to learning and growing this year!
CHRISTINE ARLT
SMITH CLOVE PRINCIPAL
MICHAEL BARONE
CENTRAL VALLEY
INTERIM PRINCIPAL
KESHA CARRA
MWMS ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
KELLYANN COFFEY
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR TRANSPORTATION
RANDI CONNOLLY
DIRECTOR FOR SECONDARY SPECIAL EDUCATION
NICOLE COOK
DIRECTOR FOR EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICES
ROGER DAVIS
NORTH MAIN PRINCIPAL
AMANDA GREENBLATT
NORTH MAIN ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
MARISOL JACKSON
CENTRAL VALLEY INTERIM ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
JESSIE LAZAR
DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORTATION
JASON MCELROY
INTERIM PRINCIPAL
MWHS
KELLI SCIARRA
INTERIM VICE PRINCIPAL
MWHS
School Messenger Reminder
As of August 20, 2024, School Messenger has replaced Swift K12 as the district’s parent notification system. As always, parents and guardians may receive important notifications from the district via email, phone call or text.
NEW WITH School Messenger:
Parents and guardians must “OPT IN” to receive text messages via School Messenger. It’s easy and quick!
How to OPT IN to receive text messages:
Text “Y” to the number: 67587 from the phone number you have registered to your Student’s Profile as a contact.
You will receive a text message confirming you have registered to receive text notifications: “You’re registered 4 SchoolMessenger notifications. Reply STOP to cancel, HELP for help.”
Please note: If you DO NOT “OPT IN” for text notifications, you will NOT receive text notifications. You will only receive phone calls or emails. We encourage you to make your selection as soon as possible to ensure smooth communication with no interruptions.
Free Meals - All Students 2024-2025 SY Reminder
All students enrolled at Monroe-Woodbury Central School District are eligible to receive a healthy breakfast and lunch in school at no charge to your household each day of the 2024-2025 school year.
All students will be able to participate in these meal programs on the first day of school without having to pay a fee or submit an application. All schools provide a breakfast program for students upon entry into school and a lunch program for students in the cafeteria.
School meal programs offer breakfast and lunch meals that meet strict federal nutrition standards, aligned with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and are planned with student preferences in mind. If packing food from home, students can add to their home brought lunch at no cost by choosing at least three of the five items offered, (e.g., low fat milk, proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits), one of which must be a vegetable or fruit. We invite students to show their support for their school food service program through participation.
View message for families regarding 2024-25 school year
View message for families regarding 2024-25 school year (en español)
As the district shared earlier this summer, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) is proposing amendments related to mixed sports competition and the athletic placement process. These regulation changes may significantly impact school districts’ athletics programs statewide.
Included below are the proposed amendments along with several letters from various local and state athletic organizations, for your reference. It is anticipated that a vote will be taken in September.
Letter from the Executive Board of the New York State Athletic Administrators Association
All families will receive a district calendar on the first day of school. Make sure and ask your child or check their backpack! Community members can pick up calendars at local libraries or Senior Centers after September 4. Please email communications@mw.k12.ny.us if you would like a calendar mailed to you.
SEPTEMBER 3: SUPERINTENDENT'S CONFERENCE DAY
(staff only)
SEPTEMBER 4: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
SEPTEMBER 11: PATRIOT DAY; BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING, 6 p.m. @ Ed Center
SEPTEMBER 16-20: SAFETY/SECURITY OFFICER APPRECIATION WEEK
SEPTEMBER 27: GO GOLD PEDIATRIC CANCER AWARENESS DAY
Monroe-Woodbury is committed to academic achievement and success for all students in a safe environment. In partnership with families and our community, the district's mission is to promote confidence, inspire a passion for learning and prepare students to become responsible global citizens.
Monroe-Woodbury is committed to academic achievement and success for all students in a safe environment. In partnership with families and our community, the district's mission is to promote confidence, inspire a passion for learning and prepare students to become responsible global citizens.