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  • 6/23/2026: June 2026 District Newsletter

    June 23, 2026 Dear Williamson Community, It is hard to believe that we have reached the end of another school year. June is always one of the most exciting and meaningful months in our schools, as it provides us with countless opportunities to celebrate the accomplishments, talents, growth, and perseverance of our students. Reminder: Tomorrow is the final half day of school for our students!   Wednesday, June 24, 2026 is a half-day of instruction for students.   Dismissal times: Middle School: 11:00 AM High School: 11:15 AM Students scheduled to complete a Regents examination on this date will continue to receive their full allotted testing time in accordance with NYSED requirements and procedures. Elementary School: 12:10 PM Thursday, June 25, 2026 there is NO SCHOOL for students. As we reflect on the year that was and look ahead to the future, we are proud to share the incredible work happening throughout our schools. The  June 2026 District Newsletter is now available and highlights many of the celebrations, accomplishments, and important initiatives that have defined this school year, including: • A Year in Review: Highlights of Progress Toward Our Strategic Plan Essential Objectives • Celebrations from Across Our Schools • Graduation Information and Recognition of the Class of 2026 • Building Updates and End-of-Year Highlights • Retiree and Tenure Recognitions • And much more... The success of our students is made possible through the collective efforts of our staff, families, Board of Education, and community partners.  Together, we have much to celebrate. Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Tuesday, Jun 23 2026

  • 6/16/2026: A New Face and Senior Spotlights

    June 16, 2026 Good Afternoon As we enjoy these final days of the school year, the pace remains fast and the energy remains high. Amid the year-end celebrations, traditions, and the relentless push to the finish line, I'm pleased to share a few updates from the District. A New Face in the Dist ric t As we wrap up the school year, Deputy Wilson will be away from the District now through the end of the summer. He fully anticipates returning to Williamson and starting the new school year with us in September. Deputy Wilson has been a tremendous asset to the District, supporting our continued growth around district safety and helping to enhance security throughout our campus. We are grateful for his dedication and service and look forward to welcoming him back in the fall. In his absence, we are thrilled to welcome Deputy Jared Panek as School Resource Officer for WCS. Deputy Panek recently spent several weeks shadowing Deputy Wilson to help ensure a smooth transition. He has been serving in law enforcement for more than two years and enjoys spending time with his family and playing with his dog. When asked about joining Williamson, Deputy Panek shared, "I am excited to be working with this school district and the Williamson community." Deputy Panek has already jumped right in, playing a key role in our Senior Parade this week. Please join us in extending a warm Williamson welcome to Deputy Panek! Class of 2026  Senior Spotlights Williamson could not be more proud of our graduating Class of 2026. This remarkable group of students has brought energy, talent, leadership, and school spirit to our halls, classrooms, athletic fields, stages, and community.  The members of the Class of 2026 are headed in many different directions—college, careers, military service, technical training, and new opportunities. While their paths may vary, they share a common foundation of hard work, perseverance, and Marauder pride. Today, we are excited to share a link to our Senior Spotlight page with the Williamson community. We invite you to join us in celebrating these outstanding students and learning more about who they are and what their future plans are.  On behalf of the Williamson Central School District, it has been our privilege to play a role in preparing these students for the next chapter of their lives. We know they will continue to make us proud as they pursue their goals and make a difference in their communities and beyond! Congratulations, Class of 2026! #MarauderProud Thank you for your continued support of Williamson and our students. Almost to the finish line... Warmest regards E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Tuesday, Jun 16 2026

  • 5/21/2026: May 2026 District Newsletter

    May 21, 2026 Dear Williamson Community, As May draws to a close, we find ourselves quickly approaching the finish line of the school year. It is remarkable how swiftly this spring has passed, and we are now entering the final stretch toward June. This is a busy and exciting time across our schools, and we are grateful for the continued energy, support, and partnership of our entire school community. The May 2026 District Newsletter is now available and highlights many of the important updates, celebrations, and ongoing work across the district. We are proud to share this snapshot of student learning, district initiatives, and community engagement, and we hope you find it both informative and meaningful. This month’s newsletter includes information on the following: 2026–27 Budget Results State Budget and EV Bus Mandate Update CIP Update Building Updates News from WCS Nurse Coordinator, Hayley Musclow  Athletic Director Report, Including information about 2026-27 coaching vacancies And so much more... As we move through this busy season—filled with budget work, celebrations, and year-end events—we are especially appreciative of your continued engagement and support. Thank you for partnering with us in the important work of educating and supporting our students. We look forward to finishing the school year strong, together. Happy (almost) Friday! Warmest regards E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Thursday, May 21 2026

  • 5/20/2026: Thank you! Annual Election and Budget Vot...

    May 20, 2026 Good Morning, Heartfelt gratitude to the WCS community for supporting students, teaching, and learning in the Williamson Central School District. The WCS 2026-27 Budget has passed!   Proposition One: 2026-27 Budget   242 "yes" votes and 147 "no" votes  (62% approval rate) Proposition Two: Bus Purchases 256 "yes" votes and 133 "no" votes  (66% approval rate) Proposition Three: Capital Reserve  246 "yes" votes and 142 "no" votes  (63% approval rate) Proposition Four: Williamson Public Library 248 "yes" votes and 141 "no" votes  (64% approval rate) BOE Election Results: Write Ins Congratulations to Angela DeFisher  (60 write in votes) and  Geoff Governor (56 write in votes) , who were elected by plurality of votes to our two BOE seat vacancies for three year terms, effective July 1, 2026. Ex Officio Student BOE Election Results   Congratulations to Aurora Higbee on being elected as Ex Officio Student Member of the WCS Board of Education! Her term will commence on July 1, 2026, and continue through June 30, 2027. As part of our commitment to student voice and civic engagement, the Williamson High School held its election for this position also on May 19, 2026.  We look forward to the perspective and dedication Aurora will bring to the Board as she represents the student body in this impactful role. Welcome, Aurora! In Gratitude... I would like to extend special thanks to the following: District Clerk, Kelly Dixon, for her role in coordination of this paramount district event,  Election Inspectors, for their diligence and careful attention to execution of the Annual Election and Budget Vote, Penny Johnston for her service as business official and role in the development of the 2026-27 budget,  WCS administrative team for engaging in courageous conversations about purpose, optimal programming, sustainability, and fiscal planning, WCS faculty and staff... their service and impact in public education is woven into the narratives and success of each and every student, #MarauderPROUD,  The WCS Board of Education... their leadership and governance is founded upon service and commitment to the Williamson community, and The Williamson community... THANK YOU! On behalf of the Williamson Central School District, many thanks for your partnership in advocacy of and for all WCS students. As always, please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns about the information included in this communication, or otherwise. Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent, Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Wednesday, May 20 2026

  • 5/19: Annual Election, Budget Vote and More!

    May 18, 2026 Good Afternoon, Hope that you all had a wonderful weekend and the opportunity to enjoy that magnificent sun and warmer temperatures yesterday! Reminder: The Annual Election and Budget Vote will take place tomorrow, May 19. We hope all community members will take the opportunity to vote. This year’s Annual Election and Budget Vote includes the proposed school budget, four propositions, and Board of Education seat vacancies, as outlined in the WCS Budget Newsletter. Voters will also have the opportunity to elect two Board of Education members to fill two seat vacancies, each for three-year terms.  Under New York State Education Law, members of the Board of Education are elected by qualified district voters to serve staggered terms. The petition period for this year’s election has closed, and no candidates were nominated for the available Board of Education seats. As a result, the seats will be determined by write-in votes received during the annual election. Consistent with New York State Education Law, if a vacancy remains following the annual election, the Board of Education may appoint qualified individuals to serve until the next scheduled election, as permitted by law. Additional information regarding the election process, budget vote, and any Board of Education appointments will be shared following the annual vote and Board organizational meeting. Want to know more? You may access all of the district's 2026-27 Budget presentations on the WCS Budget webpage.   You may access a series of three 2026-27 Budget videos on the WCS Budget webpage.   The 2026-27 Budget Disclosure Binder is now available on the WCS Budget webpage.   The 2026-27 Budget Newsletter has been mailed to community residents and is available on the WCS Budget webpage. Additionally, there are many other amazing events, activities, and opportunities happening across WCS tomorrow, May 19: Speaking of elections... Huge shout out to Tina VanStrien and the food service department for hosting a Chicken Showdown on May 19th. During the Annual Election and Budget Vote, the Food Service Department will offer a “parallel vote” for students, providing them with an authentic opportunity to have their voices heard. Through this experience, students will participate in a process that mirrors civic engagement while helping to select a menu item for the 2026–27 school year. We appreciate this meaningful initiative, which not only elevates student voice but also connects their input directly to an aspect of their daily school experience. Speaking of chicken... the Class of 2028 is sponsoring a Chicken Barbeque onsite from 3:30 - 6:30 on May 19.  Club advisors have confirmed that they ordered extra dinners if people were unable to buy presale tickets. Thank you for your continued engagement with the district.  Hope to see you at WCS tomorrow... Have a wonderful evening! Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Monday, May 18 2026

  • 5/12: Final Two Weeks Calendar, Family Surveys, and ...

    May 12, 2026 Good Evening, I hope that everyone had a wonderful weekend and that all of our mothers, grandmothers and caregivers enjoyed a lovely Mother's Day!  I am reaching out to share information about a few items this afternoon. See below for the condensed or full version text! Final Two Weeks Calendar Radiological Emergency Preparedness Congratulations to Andy Cantwell, Director of Facilities Administrative Title Change: Karen Hoody Family Surveys Condensed Version Text The last two days of school have been adjusted due to unused snow days: June 24: Half-day for students June 25: No student attendance WCS completed required Radiological Emergency Preparedness training with Wayne County Emergency Management and has already updated district safety plans based on recommendations. Congratulations to Andy Cantwell on his appointment as Director of Facilities following an extensive Civil Service hiring process. #MarauderPROUD Karen Hoody’s title has been updated to Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment to better align with regional roles and responsibilities. Family feedback surveys will be distributed later this week via Google Forms. Please take a few moments to share your feedback as we continue strategic planning efforts. Reminder: The Annual Budget Vote and Board Election will take place Tuesday, May 19 from 1:00–9:00 PM in the Middle School cafeteria. Full Version Text Final Two Weeks Calendar As I shared last week, the 2025–2026 School Calendar has been revised as follows: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 will now be a half-day of instruction for students.  Dismissal times will be: Middle School: 11:00 AM High School: 11:15 AM Students scheduled to complete a Regents examination on this date will continue to receive their full allotted testing time in accordance with NYSED requirements and procedures. Elementary School: 12:10 PM Thursday, June 25, 2026 will now be a non-attendance day for students. These adjustments are directly related to the District’s use of only one snow day this school year. As a result, the revised calendar reflects a careful balance between instructional time requirements and our ongoing commitment to optimizing State Aid eligibility and compliance around required number of school hours/days.    Thank you to Kelly Dixon, for creating the below two week calendar outlook for the final two weeks in June 2026: Families may expect that building leaders will share more information with you in the very future about end of year celebrations, testing schedules and/or other special activities. Stay tuned! Radiological Emergency Preparedness On April 27, 2026, the Williamson Central School District participated in required training provided by Wayne County Emergency Management focused on Radiological Emergency Preparedness within our district. Wayne County Emergency Management requested that the district participate in this training, as required by regulation, and will be working with districts across Wayne County to provide similar training opportunities. Attendees included all WCS administrative team members, school nurses, the Facilities Director, and the School Resource Officer (SRO). The training addressed key emergency preparedness components, including notification procedures, protective actions, potassium iodide iodide (KI) distribution and implementation, evacuation protocols, reunification processes, and post-plume planning. As a result of the training, the district has already updated its District Safety Plan to reflect recommendations and best practices identified during the session. In addition, building-level safety teams will continue reviewing and implementing applicable recommendations within their individual school safety plans and procedures. Congratulations to Andy Cantwell, Director of Facilities Please join us in congratulating Andy Cantwell as Williamson Central School District’s new Director of Facilities, effective April 23, 2026. Andy has been a valued member of the district’s Facilities Department since 2022 and brings extensive knowledge of district operations, building systems, and day-to-day facilities management. Given the competitive nature of this Civil Service position, the district engaged in an extensive hiring process that included close collaboration with Civil Service and multiple rounds of stakeholder and administrative interviews. Following this thorough process, Andy emerged as the clear choice for the position based on strong feedback and confidence ratings provided from the selection committees. We are excited to see Andy step into this leadership role and look forward to his continued contributions to the district! #MarauderPROUD Administrative Title Change WCS would also like to share an updated title change for Karen Hoody. Previously titled Coordinator of Instruction, Innovation, and Intervention, Karen will now serve as Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment moving forward. The job has not changed, nor is this an add of administrative position in the district This revised title more accurately reflects the scope of the role and aligns with comparable positions and professional responsibilities across our region and neighboring counties. Additionally, the change helps streamline recognition and accessibility of Karen for professionals outside of the district. #MarauderPROUD Family Surveys WCS has a strong tradition of surveying our students, families, and staff to “check in” on how we are doing. This year will be no different. In fact, families can expect to receive an invitation to participate in the annual feedback survey later this week. Karen Hoody, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, will distribute the surveys via Google Forms, in a similar format as it has been administered in previous years.  New this year, we have redesigned the surveys to align with our essential objectives: Academic Achievement, Culture of Caring, Community Connection, and Fiscal Responsibility. Throughout the development of our strategic plan, the voices of stakeholders — both internal and external — have informed and shaped decision-making around actionable steps to advance continuous improvement across the district. We anticipate that the revised survey design will provide essential insights needed to guide continued work in these areas and help frame strategic planning for next year and beyond. We hope you will take a few moments, when you have the opportunity, to provide us with this valuable feedback. REMINDER: Annual Election and Budget Vote The Annual Election and Budget Vote will take place on Tuesday, May 19 from 1:00–9:00 PM in the Middle School cafeteria. On May 19, voters will consider four propositions: 2026–27 Budget, as approved by the Board of Education during the  4/22/2026 Regular Meeting of the Board Transportation Purchases Creation of 2026 Capital Reserve Williamson Public Library Levy Voters will also have the opportunity to elect two Board of Education members to fill two seat vacancies, each for three-year terms.  Under New York State Education Law, members of the Board of Education are elected by qualified district voters to serve staggered terms. The petition period for this year’s election has closed, and no candidates were nominated for the available Board of Education seats. As a result, the seats will be determined by write-in votes received during the annual election. Consistent with New York State Education Law, if a vacancy remains following the annual election, the Board of Education may appoint qualified individuals to serve until the next scheduled election, as permitted by law. Additional information regarding the election process, budget vote, and any Board of Education appointments will be shared following the annual vote and Board organizational meeting. Want to know more? You may access all of the district's 2026-27 Budget presentations on the WCS Budget webpage.   You may access a series of three 2026-27 Budget videos on the WCS Budget webpage.   The 2026-27 Budget Disclosure Binder is now available on the WCS Budget webpage.   The annual Budget Newsletter is expected to be in mailboxes mid next week. Wishing you all a relaxing evening... Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Tuesday, May 12 2026

  • 5/8/2026: Happy Mother's Day!

    May 8, 2026 Good Morning, I hope that you all are having a good week! Just a couple things to share this morning... Happy Mother's Day! As Mother's Day approaches this weekend, we extend our appreciation to all mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, guardians, caregivers, and the many individuals who support, encourage, and care for our students each day. Thank you for the countless ways you help children grow, learn, and succeed. Your guidance, compassion, patience, and support make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and throughout our school community. We hope you have the opportunity to enjoy this special day, spend time with loved ones, and celebrate YOU! Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at WCS! Stars of Tomorrow If you’re looking for something to watch this evening, tune in to the livestream of the Stars of Tomorrow Gala!   Our High School cast of Mamma Mia! will perform “Voulez Vous” about halfway through the event tonight. The gala will also include recognition announcements for participating schools, with awards based on detailed adjudication of every aspect of the production — from performance and choreography to technical crew, lighting, sound, and backstage professionalism. Thanks to News 8 WROC, the event will be  livestreamed  tonight and replayed on Saturday. You won’t want to miss it! REMINDER: Annual Election and Budget Vote The Annual Election and Budget Vote will take place on Tuesday, May 19 from 1:00–9:00 PM in the Middle School cafeteria. On May 19, voters will consider four propositions: 2026–27 Budget, as approved by the Board of Education during the  4/22/2026 Regular Meeting of the Board Transportation Purchases Creation of 2026 Capital Reserve Williamson Public Library Levy Voters will also have the opportunity to elect two Board of Education members to fill two seat vacancies, each for three-year terms.  Under New York State Education Law, members of the Board of Education are elected by qualified district voters to serve staggered terms. The petition period for this year’s election has closed, and no candidates were nominated for the available Board of Education seats. As a result, the seats will be determined by write-in votes received during the annual election. Consistent with New York State Education Law, if a vacancy remains following the annual election, the Board of Education may appoint qualified individuals to serve until the next scheduled election, as permitted by law. Additional information regarding the election process, budget vote, and any Board of Education appointments will be shared following the annual vote and Board organizational meeting. Want to know more? You may access all of the district's 2026-27 Budget presentations on the WCS Budget webpage.   You may access a series of three 2026-27 Budget videos on the WCS Budget webpage.   The 2026-27 Budget Disclosure Binder is now available on the WCS Budget webpage.   The annual Budget Newsletter is expected to be in mailboxes mid next week. Speaking of elections... Huge shout out to Tina VanStrien and the food service department for hosting a Chicken Showdown on May 19th. On the day of the Annual Election and Budget Vote, the Food Service Department will offer a “parallel vote” for students, providing them with an authentic opportunity to have their voices heard. Through this experience, students will participate in a process that mirrors civic engagement while helping to select a menu item for the 2026–27 school year. We appreciate this meaningful initiative, which not only elevates student voice but also connects their input directly to an aspect of their daily school experience. REMINDER: Revised 2025-26 School Calendar The 2025–2026 School Calendar has been revised as follows: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 will now be a half-day of instruction for students.  Dismissal times will be: Middle School: 11:00 AM High School: 11:15 AM Students scheduled to complete a Regents examination on this date will continue to receive their full allotted testing time in accordance with NYSED requirements and procedures. Elementary School: 12:10 PM Thursday, June 25, 2026 will now be a non-attendance day for students. As always, thank you for your partnership with the Williamson Central School District.  It is an honor to serve this community in advocacy of and for students, teaching, learning and outcomes. Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Friday, May 08 2026

  • 4/24/2026: 2026-27 Budget Video #3 Now Available

    April 24, 2026 Dear Williamson CSD Families, Faculty and Staff,  During a Regular Meeting of the Board on April 22, 2026, the WCS Board of Education formally adopted the 2026–27 budget, marking an important milestone in the development process. As part of our continued budget communications, Budget Video #3 of 3 is now available on our website. This final installment focuses on the expenditure side of the 2026–27 budget, highlighting how resources are allocated to support our programs, services, and overall district operations. We hope this final video is helpful to you! REMINDER: The Annual Election and Budget Vote will take place on Tuesday, May 19 from 1:00–9:00 PM in the Middle School cafeteria. On May 19, voters will consider four propositions: 2026–27 Budget Transportation Purchases Creation of 2026 Capital Reserve Williamson Public Library  Voters will also have the opportunity to elect two Board of Education members to fill two seat vacancies, each for three-year terms.   Speaking of elections... Huge shout out to Tina VanStrien and the food service department for hosting a Chicken Showdown on May 19th. On the day of the Annual Election and Budget Vote, the Food Service Department will offer a “parallel vote” for students, providing them with an authentic opportunity to have their voices heard. Through this experience, students will participate in a process that mirrors civic engagement while helping to select a menu item for the 2026–27 school year. We appreciate this meaningful initiative, which not only elevates student voice but also connects their input directly to an aspect of their daily school experience. For additional information about the Annual Election and Budget Vote, please visit the Williamson Central School District Budget page on our website, which includes our series of budget videos and budget presentations. We also encourage you to join us for our Public Hearing on May 6 at 5:30 PM. Please Note: We anticipate folks from the Williamson Public Library will be present at the Hearing to provide information about their proposition and to answer questions you may have.  The district did not receive any petitions for Board of Education candidates. Board of Education President, Angela DeFisher, will provide information about the process for Board of Education seat vacancies with no candidates during the Public Hearing. You may also access this information by viewing the 4/22/2026 Regular Meeting of the Board.   Thank you for partnering with us in this incredible work.  Hope you are able to get out and enjoy the sunshine today! Warmest regards, E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Friday, Apr 24 2026

  • 4/22/2026: A Point of Pride for Williamson CSD – Nat...

    April 22, 2026 Dear Williamson CSD Community, We are very proud today to share a point of pride for our district. The NAMM Foundation has recognized Williamson Central School District as one of the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education. Now in its 27th year, this national designation honors schools and districts for their leadership in expanding equitable access to music education for all students. This marks the fifth time Williamson has earned this distinction—an achievement that reflects the dedication of our music educators, the enthusiasm of our students, and the continued support of our families and community.  A huge shout out to our incredible music educators —both vocal and instrumental—for fostering a love of music, nurturing student talent and passion, and creating such a meaningful, asset-building experience for our students and for our larger community. We also extend our sincere thanks to the entirety of our learning community—our classroom teachers who support music instruction and practice, our incredible students who engage in the program with pride, spirit, and enthusiasm, and their families for the at-home support, encouragement, and consistent presence at performances. We could not achieve this recognition without you! Have a terrific evening! Warmest regards E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Wednesday, Apr 22 2026

  • 4/21/2026: April 2026 District Newsletter

    April 21, 2026 Dear Williamson Community: We are now closing the distance to the finish line of the school year at a rapid pace. It is hard to believe how quickly this spring has moved, and we are now approaching the final stretch toward June. This time of year always seems to move quickly, and we are grateful for the continued energy, support, and partnership of our entire school community. The  April 2026 District Newsletter  is now available and highlights many of the important updates and celebrations taking place across our schools. We are proud to share this snapshot of student learning, district work, and community engagement, and we hope you find it informative and helpful. This month’s newsletter includes information on the following: 2026–27 Budget Development Annual Election and Budget Vote (5/19) Chicken Showdown (5/19) Fiscal Responsibility – Exploring Pathways Building Updates AD Report: Potential for Football at WCS and Athletic Banners in the High School Gymnasium And so much more... As we continue through the spring, we thank you for your ongoing engagement and partnership with the district.  We look forward to continuing the momentum as we move through the final months of the school year together. Warmest regards E. Bridget Ashton Elizabeth Bridget Ashton Superintendent Williamson Central School District 4184 Miller Street Williamson, NY 14589

    Tuesday, Apr 21 2026