Longwood:
Where the Future Begins
A
Welcome Back Message from
Superintendent Allan
Gerstenlauer, Ed.D.
Dear Parents and Residents,
In
2009, we began the school year by marking a
milestone in Longwood’s history: the 50th
anniversary of the district’s centralization.
The school year culminated with a spectacular
tribute to Longwood’s past…the dedication
of war memorials to the hundreds of young men
and women from Longwood who served in the armed
forces from the American Revolution through
the Vietnam War. It was, and continues to be,
their sacrifices that serve as a cornerstone
for a brighter future for generations of Longwood
students.
A supportive community and dedicated staff compliment
Longwood’s solid foundation. We take great
pride in what we have built together since 1959.
We
truly believe that Longwood is where their future
begins.
We need go no further than kindergarten classes
where teachers have integrated SmartBoards into
their daily routine to deliver instruction,
just as the new technology has been embraced
in every discipline and grade throughout our
schools.
Longwood provides a well-rounded, educational
experience. Our kids are poised to take advantage
of these opportunities, whether they are in
challenging academic classes, art and music,
technology, special education, community service
or athletics. We strive to ensure that all of
our students achieve at higher academic levels.
We acknowledge the challenge of providing these
services in the face of dwindling aid from New
York State and the federal government. Through
sound fiscal management and unwavering public
support we have, to date, been able to weather
this global fiscal crisis. Nevertheless, we
look forward to a time when New York State meets
its financial obligation to the Longwood community
and its commitment to our students.
Beyond
the financial support, parents and other community
members are essential partners in providing
a bright future for our children. We encourage
you to enjoy concerts, plays, athletic contests
and other activities, and invite you to attend
Board of Education meetings, to join Board and
district subcommittees, and to become members
of our PTA’s. It is especially important
for parents to stay involved in their schools;
children achieve greater success when their
parents are part of their school experience.
We
welcome you to a new year, and ask that YOU
be a part of Longwood’s pride. September
is not just the start of another school year;
it is a springboard to the future for each and
every child we serve.
Sincerely,
Allan
Gerstenlauer, Ed.D.
