Raider Update: Week of April 27, 2026

The Raider Update Week of April 27, 2026 Superintendent's Message Over the next three weeks, our talented students will be taking to the stage. Wednesday, April 29: HS Choir/Select Group and Orchestra (7:30 PM) Thursday, April 30: JW Leary Choral Concert (7:30 PM) Wednesday, May 6: All Elementary Choral Concert (7:00 PM) Saturday, May 16: Madison Musical (6:00 PM) We hope that you will be able to attend these performances and support our students. Respectfuly, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School UpdateJefferson UpdateJ.W. Leary UpdateMadison UpdateNightengale Update

Monday, Apr 27 2026

Raider Update: Week of March 30, 2026

The Raider Update Week of March 30, 2026 Superintendent's Message The Massena Art department received some incredible news this week. Two IB Visual Arts students received national recognition for their amazing talent, creativity and singular vision.  Kairi Weber received an American Visions Award and a National Gold Medal. Amauri Ceesay received 2 National Gold Medals.  In our CNY region, there were 22 total national awards:  9 gold medals and 1 American Visions Award.  The American Visions Award is a prestigious honor within the Scholastic Art Awards. Gold Medals are Scholastic Gold keys that go on to compete at the national level.  These students and their teacher, Ms. Pennington-Lee, are invited to attend the National Ceremony in June at Carnegie Hall in NYC. Congratulations to these incredibly talented students and to Ms. Pennington-Lee! As a reminder, our last day of classes prior to Spring Break is Thursday, April 2. Classes will resume on Monday, April 13. Respectfully. Ron Burke, Superintendent. High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Mar 30 2026

Raider Update: Week of March 16, 2026

The Raider Update Week of March 16, 2026 Superintendent's Message It is now less than two weeks until the curtains open for our Spring musical! Below is information from Mr. Lincoln: The MCHS Musical Theater Department is proud to present "The Little Mermaid"!   This high school production is sure to entertain and take you "Under the Sea"! Friday, March 27th - 7:30pm Saturday, March 28th - 1:30pm Saturday, March 28th - 7:30pm All Tickets: $12 Tickets available: 1. On our website: www.mchsmusical.com -or-  2. At the High School Box office (main lobby) daily from 3:30pm - 5:30pm -or- 3. At the door, the night of the show Please consider coming out to enjoy the show and support our students! Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Mar 16 2026

Raider Update: Week of March 9, 2026

The Raider Update Week of March 9, 2026 Superintendent's Message, Congratulations to the Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian! Valedictorian Zachary Johnson Salutatorian Sadie Fent. Both Zachary and Sadie excel academically and are active in a number of extracurricular activities. Their amazing accomplishments are the result of dedication and determination. Congratulations to Zachary, Sadie and their families! Please remember to check your smoke detectors and change the batteries. These little steps are vital to protect your family. Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Mar 09 2026

Raider Update: Week of March 2, 2026

The Raider Update Week of March 2, 2026 Superintendent's Message Snow Day Update We have two snow days remaining. New York State requires that schools be in session for 180 days. Each day that a school falls below that threshold may result in the loss of 1/180th of the allotted Foundation Aid. If we use more than two snow days, we are required to open on any remaining vacation days. If there are no remaining vacation days, the school is eligible to apply for a waiver to the 180-day requirement. The only remaining vacation days are scheduled from April 3 to April 10 for Spring Break. We understand that due to family plans, any attempt to have students present during this vacation will result in significant absences.   To ensure our ability to meet the 180-day requirement, the District has developed two contingency plans. Possible 3-Hour Delays During the early Spring, a 3-hour delay is often all that is needed for roads to cleared. Based on weather forecasts, the District will notify the school community by 6:00PM the night before that IF we delay the following morning, it will be a 3-hour delay Non-weather related issues (such as water main breaks) may prevent us from providing the advance notice March 13 March 13 is scheduled as a professional development day with students not attending school.   There will be no change to this day provided that we still have 2 snow days remaining at the end of this week. If we use one or more emergency snow days this week, we will implement the following: March 13 will be an instructional day with students attending classes the full day; Friday, April 10 will be designated as a remote professional development day for all staff. While a possible transition to remote professional development is not ideal, after consulting with the leadership teams from our three bargaining units, it was felt that it is better than remote instruction for students.  Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Mad Nightengale Update

Monday, Mar 02 2026

Raider Update: Week of February 9, 2026

The Raider Update Week of February 9, 2026 Superintendent's Message It is hard to believe that we are quickly approaching the middle of February! Next week, our students and staff will be enjoying February break. In a Winter that seems to be without end, we find ways to enjoy our free time in the North Country. On Saturday, February 15, the Massena Figure Skating Club will present "Passport to the World" at 1:00PM. What a great way to spend a winter's afternoon while supporting the youth of our area. A great local resource is the Nicandri Nature Center. Throughout the vacation, the venue will be open each day for activities and adventures. If you have not visited this winter, maybe next week is a good time to experience some of the Center’s programs. Check out the Nicandri Nature Center at: https://www.massenanaturecenter.com/about-the-nature-center/ Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Feb 09 2026

Raider Update: Week of February 2, 2026

The Raider Update Week of February 2, 2026 Superintendent's Message Reading is critical to a child's cognitive, emotional and social development. Engaging children in daily reading practices significantly enhances their comprehension skills, vocabulary, and overall academic performance. Reading to children introduces them to the rhythm of language, ignites their imagination and fosters a love for stories. Meanwhile, listening to children read aloud not only boosts their confidence but also allows parents and educators to provide valuable feedback, aiding in the improvement of pronunciation and fluency. Free reading, where children choose what they want to read, encourages independence and can be particularly motivating for reluctant readers, as it aligns with their interests and preferences, making reading a more enjoyable experience. Reading equips children with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of life, making it an invaluable habit to cultivate from a young age. Encouraging daily reading is pivotal in nurturing not only proficient readers but also informed and thoughtful individuals. Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent HS Honor Roll J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Feb 02 2026

Raider Update for the Week of January 26, 2026

The Raider Update Week of January 26, 2026 Superintendent's Message This week marks the start of the third marking period.  This is a pivotal time of the school year, offering a chance to reflect on achievements and areas that may require additional support. With half of the academic year remaining, there's ample opportunity for students to experience significant growth and improvement. By setting realistic goals and implementing strategies to overcome obstacles, students can enhance their learning experience. Together, let’s strive to make the remainder of the school year productive and rewarding for all students. Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Jan 26 2026

Raider Update: Week of January 19, 2026

The Raider Update Week of January 19, 2026 Superintendent's Message On this holiday we reflect on the profound impact of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy. His unwavering commitment to justice and equality through non-violence has shaped our world.  While the current news cycle is filled with stories of exactly the opposite across our world, we can keep Dr. King’s Dream alive.  Today, let us honor his contributions and recommit ourselves to the values of kindness, understanding, and unity that he so passionately advocated for.  Let us use this day as an opportunity to reflect on his teachings and strive to build a better world for our children. Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent J.W. Leary UpdateJefferson UpdateMadison UpdateNightengale Update

Tuesday, Jan 20 2026

Raider Update: Week of January 12, 2026

The Raider Update Week of September 8, 2025 Superintendent's Message As the calendar turns to the New Year, I look forward to the many events that will be taking place over the next several months. On Tuesday, January 13, we will kick off our elementary school musical productions as Jefferson Elementary presents Alice in Wonderland.  Showtime is 6:00 PM in the High School Auditorium.  Tickets are $5 and elementary student admission is free. Mark your calendars for the Nightengale Elementary Musical on Saturday, April 25 and the Madison Elementary Musical on Saturday, May 16.    Although it seems like the school year just began, next week marks the end of the second marking period.  Please take this time to review your child’s academic progress to ensure that the year ends on a positive note.  As always, reach out to your child’s teachers or counselor with questions or concerns.   Respectfully, Ron Burke, Superintendent High School Update J.W. Leary Update Jefferson Update Madison Update Nightengale Update

Monday, Jan 12 2026