Dear Steeler Families,

As we've settled into the school year, I want to thank you for the important role you play in your child’s education. When students arrive on time and ready to learn, it makes a real difference, and I know that takes effort at home. From bedtime routines to making sure children get enough sleep, your support sets them up for success each day.

This year has brought several exciting updates for our district. In October, we launched OPENGATE screening. This simple and non-invasive safety measure is used by other districts in Western New York and applies to all students and visitors. If you have any concerns, I encourage you to contact me directly.

Afterschool programs began in October at Martin Road Elementary, Lackawanna Middle and High School. Saturday Academy has also begun for the year, with the next one scheduled for November 8 at Martin Road Elementary. If you have questions, please reach out to Paul Lyons, Principal of Extended Learning, at plyons@lackawannaschools.org or your child's teacher. 

Our students continue to benefit from new opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. The Lackawanna Education Enrichment Foundation (LEEF) is helping us expand learning beyond school walls through field trips and hands-on experiences. You can learn more about LEEF at https://www.leefwny.org. 

Academically, we are using the DIBELS universal screener for the first time. This tool gives teachers detailed insight into each child’s strengths and needs in literacy, helping us provide targeted support. We are also proud to introduce our new swimming program beginning in grade 2, ensuring that by graduation, every student will be a confident swimmer. Please check out the video on our new swimming program, here, the Physical Education Team answers most frequently asked questions: Lackawanna Swim Program

In grades 4–6, students now rotate between Arabic and Spanish, giving them early exposure to world languages before making a choice in middle school. By high school, students have the opportunity to earn the Seal of Biliteracy, a distinction recognized by colleges and employers. Learning another language strengthens the brain, improves memory, and helps students perform better academically. It also opens doors to future opportunities. Around the world, multilingualism is common, students in Canada, for example, grow up learning both English and French. By giving our students these opportunities early, we are preparing them to thrive in a global society.

As the weather changes, please check local stations like

• WGRZ (https://www.wgrz.com)
• WIVB (https://www.wivb.com)
• WKBW (https://www.wkbw.com)
• WBEN (https://wben.radio.com), and follow us on
• Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LackawannaSchools, or visit our
• District website at http://www.lackawannaschools.org for updates.

I love this season, the crisp air, colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, and yes, pumpkin spice everything. Most of all, I love the sense of community and the promise of what we can achieve together. Thank you for partnering with us to support our students.

With gratitude,
Proud Superintendent of Lackawanna City Schools,
Nadia A. Nashir

Our High School Guidance Department is diligently preparing our seniors for their exciting journeys beyond graduation. Each senior is engaging in individual review meetings with their counselors to meticulously plan their post-graduation steps.

Meanwhile, our juniors successfully completed the PSAT on October 23, setting the stage for their future academic endeavors.

Looking ahead, the sophomore class eagerly anticipates a visit from BOCES in the first week of December, where they will explore potential programs for the coming year.

Our freshmen are off to a spirited start, having been introduced to the school through a dynamic scavenger hunt, designed to familiarize them with essential staff members such as the nurse and social workers.

Our seniors will be ordering and receiving their class jackets in November and December, while our juniors will be doing the same with their class hoodies. Both juniors and seniors are also preparing for their annual Pasta Dinner and Basket Raffle, which will take place on Thursday, November 6, from 4–7 p.m. In addition, the classes will be holding their annual Gift Card Raffle, with the drawing scheduled for December 18.

November 4,18 and 25 - SUNY Erie Community College Instant Admissions (for our senior students to meet and apply with the ECC admissions representative.)

November 12 - Canisius University Representative Visits LHS

November 13 - Hilbert College Representative Visits LHS

November 24 - Canisius Instant Admissions (Senior students meet and apply with Canisius University admissions representative)

The improvements to the Lackawanna Middle School courtyard and cafeteria have been given a thumbs up by students and staff!

The cafeteria improvements include cafe-style tables, basketball hoops, ping pong table, board games, and a reading area.

The courtyard project has been a labor of love by the students of LMS. It began with an idea by the students in March of 2024, before taking shape and being introduced at the start of this school year.  

Courtyard Project Timeline

March 2024: Lackawanna Middle School Student Council Advisor Sara Zahn approached Superintendent Nadia Nashir about the students' wish to make the LMS Courtyard a more usable space.

March 2024- May 2024: Students invited Superintendent Nashir to a meeting where they presented their renovation proposal. From there, students were invited to attend a Board of Education Meeting in May to present their proposal.

Ahead of the meeting, the students sent out surveys to their classmates, asking students how they wished to see the space used.

May 2024: Seven LMS students presented their findings and proposal to the Board of Education, where they got full support to move ahead with the project.

May 2024-September 2025: Move ahead with the project, aiming to create a healthier learning environment. 

A group of almost 30 student leaders began measuring and designing the courtyard. They consulted the results from the student survey to decide what was needed most: new surfacing, tables, and chairs. The combined efforts from maintenance, the District Office, principals, and students helped the project come together.

September 2025: Project was completed, just in time to showcase it for District-Wide wellness week.  

Both the courtyard and cafeteria accommodate various learning styles, facilitate movement, collaboration, and deeper engagement for different tasks and individual needs.

We're always looking for feedback and welcome ideas to build on the district's health and wellness initiatives. 

As we move into the heart of fall, we want to take a moment to celebrate the wonderful things happening in our school community!

One School, One Book – A Huge Success!
Thank you to all the families who participated in our One School, One Book event! It was truly heartwarming to see our students, parents and staff come together around the joy of reading. I loved seeing and hearing the students talk about Dog Days by Karen English. The shared excitement in the hallways, the thoughtful conversations at home, and the creative activities in classrooms showed just how powerful it is when we learn together. When parents, students and teachers partner in education, amazing things happen — and this event was a shining example of that!

Exciting News – Swimming is Making a Splash!
We are thrilled to have swimming as part of our physical education curriculum this year. Our fourth and fifth graders are currently enjoying their swim sessions this fall, and they are loving the opportunity to build confidence and skills in the water. Looking ahead, our second and third grade students will dive into their sessions in the spring. This is such a valuable life skill, and we're proud to provide this opportunity as part of our commitment to whole-child development.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we make our school a wonderful place to learn and grow.

Truman Elementary School, home to our littlest learners in pre-k, kindergarten and first grade, started the school year strong with a successful supply drop-off event. Families had the opportunity to meet teachers, tour classrooms and get excited for a new year of learning and growth.

September and October were full of exciting events and enriching experiences for our students. The PTA Book Fair was a big hit, with students enjoying the chance to shop for their favorite books while showing their school spirit during Spirit Week. We also held a very successful Parent Information Night. This event was well attended and helped families connect with the school community and outside organizations.

We kicked off October with a high-energy Bucket Filler Concert featuring Glenn Colton, launching our focus on following the Steeler Standards and what it means to be a Bucket Filler.  

Students learned about fire safety during Fire Prevention Week and were thrilled to welcome a special visit and presentation from the Lackawanna Fire Department. There were lots of smiling faces! Thank you to our SRO, Officer Kwiatkowski for arranging this!  

We also celebrated our first Bucket Filler Assembly of the year, recognizing students who have been true role models of the Steeler Standards, being respectful, responsible, safe and kind. Officer Kwiatkowski was our guest speaker. He emphasized the importance of safety with his annual Be Prepared Not Scared message for our students!   

October wrapped up with two favorite traditions: our Parade of Costumes and the annual Trunk or Treat event. Both were festive, fun-filled celebrations that brought joy to students and families alike.

At Truman, we are proud of our strong start to the school year and excited for all the learning and growing still to come!

It’s been a busy and exciting fall across our Health, Physical Education and Athletics programs!
Our district swim initiative for grades 2–12 is off to a fantastic start, giving students valuable water safety skills and confidence in the pool.
Fourth and fifth-grade families, come join us for our swim celebrations and family swim nights.

• November 25 – Fourth Grade Swim Celebration and Family Swim Night at the MS/HS Pool, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
• December 2 - Fifth Grade Swim Celebration and Family Swim Night at the MS/HS Pool, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Our district swim initiative for grades 2–12 is off to a fantastic start, giving students valuable water safety skills and confidence in the pool.
Fourth and fifth-grade families, come join us for our swim celebrations and family swim nights.

• November 25 – Fourth Grade Swim Celebration and Family Swim Night at the MS/HS Pool, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
• December 2 - Fifth Grade Swim Celebration and Family Swim Night at the MS/HS Pool, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Watch the video below to learn more about the upcoming initiative. Translated versions can be on our website HERE.

We were proud to honor this year’s Athletic Wall of Fame inductees, recognizing their outstanding accomplishments and lasting contributions to Lackawanna athletics.

Honorees:
• LHS Steelers Varsity Football (1993)
• Jeff Palczewski (1980)
• Bob Palka (1981)
• Anthone Wright (1984)
• Angel Clark (2006)
• Abdulhamid Albaneh (2017)

Homecoming Spirit Week brought energy and pride to all campuses, with spirited pep rallies and a full slate of modified, JV and varsity games that were a huge success.

Congratulations to the LAHS Homecoming Court on their well-deserved recognition.

A special congratulations goes to Mekhi Scott, recipient of the Heart of a Champion Character Athlete Award, for exemplifying integrity, character, and sportsmanship in the Week #4 varsity football game, Lackawanna vs Iroquois.Fall Sports “Senior Nite” celebrations were hosted at our home varsity league games in October, with plenty of families out to support their senior’s last home league games of their fall sports careers.

Fall Modified teams will celebrate their season at the Modified Awards Celebration on November 4.

Looking ahead, Winter Sports Meetings for athletes in grades 7–12 will be held on November 5.

Varsity and JV winter sports kick off on November 17, with Modified winter sports beginning November 24.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our District and Building Wellness Committees for organizing an incredible Wellness Week (September 21–October 3). Engaging and meaningful activities took place across all four campuses, promoting health and wellness for our entire school community.

The 2024 Capital Improvement Project is underway.

Great things are coming to the Lackawanna City School District! After more than a year of planning and preparation under their belts, the District's 2024 Capital Improvement Project has started making the vision a reality.

Since early 2024, the School District has been working alongside LaBella Associates, PC to assess the needs of each facility and design to make meaningful improvements that will enhance learning spaces for every student. Working together as a team, the District, LaBella Associates, and Buffalo Construction Consultants have worked closely to oversee a multi-phased project that will not only revitalize existing facilities but support student development, accomplishments, and
community pride!

The three-phased project began in August 2024 and have a projected completion of September 2028:

• Phase 1: High School/Middle School upgrades, including a new turf sports field and athletic site upgrades, classroom renovations and renovation of essential academic spaces.
• Phase 2: Martin Road Elementary and Truman Elementary upgrade to improve security, access and operational efficiency.
• Phase 3: Restoration of the historic McKinley Administration Building for grades 5–6, and other High School/Middle School improvements, including the auditorium and locker rooms.

To date the project team has held over 20 coordination meetings collectively between the school district, LaBella, and Buffalo Construction Consultants, and more than 40 planning meetings with school staff and administrators. These meetings helped revise the overall design and ensure that the improvements serve our families, teachers and students.

In the coming months, you’ll begin to see construction activity at the High School/Middle School, with an early focus on the Technology Wing, library and nearby classrooms. By spring 2026, work will also begin on a brand-new multi-sport turf field, which has been designed for football, soccer, baseball, and softball, accompanied by new grandstand bleachers, field lighting, scoreboard, sound system and an upgraded athletic entry to enhance the spectator experience.

Throughout construction, the School District, LaBella, and Buffalo Construction Consultants will continue to work closely to ensure the process runs smoothly, safely, and with minimal disruption to students and staff.

We’re thrilled to see this long-anticipated project take shape and can’t wait to welcome students, families, and the community to the new and improved Lackawanna City School District facilities—built to inspire learning and success for years to come!

We are excited to have a Welcome Center to support the needs of families. When you are ready to register your child for school please make an appointment. For this appointment, you will need to have your child's birth certificate, immunization records, most recent Report Card/Transcript, IEP (if applicable), and two proofs of residency for your household. You should also contact the Welcome Center to notify us when you have moved, changed phone numbers or updated your email address.

Our Registrar is available from 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Please call to make an Appointment or update your information at 716-821-5610 ext. 7703.

Our Goals:

• Provides resources, supports and programs for our families.
• Build relationships with Parents; Staff and Parents; and Parents and Parents.
• Enhance our families’ capacity to support learning and serve as leaders in our schools.

This year, we welcome Hanna Crandall, MSW to our Team! Hanna comes to LCSD from the UB School of Social Work.

Hanna states, “I serve as the Family Resource Center social worker for the Lackawanna City School District, where my role is to support families by addressing their needs and connecting them with resources that promote student and family well-being. I work closely with parents, guardians and caregivers to navigate challenges—whether academic, social, or personal—so that every child can thrive in school. My goal in partnering with the LCSD is to strengthen the bridge between home, school and community by providing guidance, advocacy and access to services tailored to each family’s unique situation.”

Thank you, Hanna, for strengthening our Team!

Our elementary schools (Pre-K–5) will continue to use a standards-based report card this year. This type of report card is designed to give families a clearer and more detailed picture of how children are doing in school.

Instead of giving just one overall grade, the report card shows how your child is progressing in specific areas of English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. This helps highlight both their strengths and the skills they are still working on. Teachers can then use this information to provide more targeted support, while families gain a better understanding of what learning looks like at each grade level.

Behind the scenes, our teachers and report card committees have worked together to identify the most important learning goals, called essential standards, that students should meet. BOCES is helping us update the report card format, and we expect to have a first draft to share by the end of the month.

On the report card, you’ll see progress reported using clear indicators that show how your child is performing on grade-level expectations. In addition, you’ll see feedback on your child’s effort and habits for success—skills like persistence, responsibility, and classroom engagement—which are just as important for growth as academics.

This new approach is meant to give families a more meaningful picture of learning, promote consistency across classrooms, and strengthen the connection between school and home.

We are excited to share some important updates about how we are supporting student learning and literacy across all grade levels this year.

At the elementary level (K–6), our teachers recently completed student benchmarking using a new tool called DIBELS. This assessment helps us understand each child’s reading strengths and areas for growth so we can provide the right support. Thanks to the hard work of our testing teams, every child was screened, and instructional groups have been formed. Students now receive small-group reading instruction during WIN (What I Need) time, and this year we are launching Tier 3 support using Orton Gillingham, a highly-respected program that helps struggling readers build strong foundational skills.

At the middle school, students will now use IXL as their screening tool, and we are also introducing Lexia PowerUp, which works as both an assessment and an intervention resource. PowerUp is designed to personalize reading instruction, fill in skill gaps and accelerate student growth—giving students the confidence and skills they need to succeed in middle and high school. Our teachers are receiving training to ensure they can make the most of this resource to support literacy for all learners.

At the high school, students will also be using IXL as the main diagnostic tool. IXL offers personalized practice in math, language arts, science, and social studies, and it adapts to each student’s needs. This means students get the practice and support they need most, while teachers receive real-time information to guide classroom instruction and track growth over time.

We are also preparing for future changes at the state level. The Eleventh Grade English Regents Exam will be changing in June 2026, and our high school teachers are already working on aligning curriculum and instruction to the new standards and exam format. At the same time, our middle school ELA teachers are working closely with Erie 1 BOCES to reflect on curriculum, instruction and data. A big focus this year is on the Science of Reading for adolescents, helping us strengthen reading outcomes for all students.

Finally, we want you to know that at both the district and state level, there is a strong commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality, research-based and culturally responsive literacy instruction. Our district is proud to share this commitment and to continue building a culture of reading and writing excellence for every learner.

This fall, the Lackawanna City School District is rolling out several exciting updates to our math program designed to support every learner, from our youngest Pre-K students, to those who benefit from extra support in later grades.

Number Worlds at Martin Road Elementary
Martin Road is introducing Number Worlds, a small-group math program that helps students strengthen foundational math skills and build confidence. Through daily, hands-on lessons during Math WIN (What I Need) time, students practice number sense, problem-solving, and essential skills that close learning gaps and prepare them for future success.

Building Blocks in Pre-K at Truman
Our youngest learners at Truman Elementary are beginning their math journey with Building Blocks, a playful, research-based program that aligns with New York State Standards. Students explore counting, shapes, patterns and spatial awareness through engaging activities woven into everyday learning. This early introduction to math helps set the stage for strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills as students move through elementary school.

A Shared Math Vision
Across the district, administrators and math coaches are working together to create a Math Vision for Lackawanna Schools. This vision centers on three key priorities:
• High expectations for all students
• Grade-level, standards-based instruction
• Perseverance through meaningful problem-solving

To support this work, our team will be conducting Data Collection Walks to look at learning trends across grade levels. These insights will guide professional development for teachers so they can continue to provide the best instruction possible.

Together, these initiatives show our commitment to helping every student build strong math foundations, grow in confidence and succeed in mathematics.

Learn more about what's happening in the Office of Teaching and Learning HERE.

As we look ahead to the next budget season, we want to take a moment to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency. While the formal development of the school budget is still months away, our team is always working behind the scenes to identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure that every dollar is used effectively to support student learning.

We understand the importance of balancing educational excellence with financial stewardship. Whether it's through energy efficiency initiatives, shared services, or careful planning of instructional resources, we continuously seek ways to reduce costs without compromising the quality of education.

Your support and engagement are vital to this process. We look forward to sharing more details as the budget planning begins and welcome your input along the way.

The Department of Extended Learning & Community Engagement is excited to report that the afterschool season has begun with great success. Our team has successfully launched three programs in October at Martin Rd Elementary and the Middle and High Schools. At Martin Rd. (a 21st Century Community Learning Center program), we had a strong start with our first cohort operating at full capacity, and we are pleased to offer two additional opportunities for students who were unable to participate over the summer and in the first cohort, later in the school year. 

We are grateful for our partnerships with organizations like Tifft Nature Preserve, Lackawanna Public Library and Coremess Wellness, and we look forward to continuing these collaborations throughout the 25-26 afterschool season. Our Extended School Day Program at the Middle School has taken a new approach this year, partnering with teachers to run various clubs. This model has allowed us to provide better support to students and district staff, increase engagement and offer a broader range of educational experiences.

Our afterschool programs were fortunate to receive supplemental funding from Erie County to enhance our Light on Afterschool event. This event was a huge success, as Middle Schoolers organized and ran a fun festival at Martin Rd, providing a wonderful experience for students, friends, and families to participate in. In addition to this event, we have been offering daily ELA review and enrichment opportunities at the High School (a 21st CCLC program), including activities like chess, bocce, and weight room conditioning, including yoga. Once in full swing, we will offer Math, Global/History and science reviews weekly to support students in reaching their graduation goals on time.

Our first Saturday Academy, Dino-Mite, was well-received by the community, and we were ecstatic for the support of our new partners, including the Buffalo Geological Society, the Buffalo Association of Professional Geologists and Featured Creature Studios, among some old favorites. Please consider joining us for our next Saturday Academy event, Wild Wild West, which will take place on November 11 at Martin Road Elementary from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on December 8 for Around the World at Truman Elementary.

If you have a skill or unique connection that you would like to share with us, we encourage you to reach out to Paul Lyons, Principal of Extended Learning & Community Engagement (plyons@lackawannaschools.org), or Catherine Konieczny, YWCA WNY Project Director (CatherineKonieczny@lackawannaschools.org) We always have exciting projects in the works, and we'd love to have your continued support.

LMS Fishing Club:

Health Benefits of Fishing: Good for the body and the mind. A special thank you to Mr. Miller for taking a group of kids fishing for a special trip during the district-wide wellness week. Mr Miller teaches seventh-grade science, runs the fishing club and plays an active role on the LMS Wellness team. We highly encourage students to get involved in the numerous clubs offered at Lackawanna Middle School.

The Food Service Department will be having the following promotions for the Fall and Winter Months.

November 18-Mickey Mouse's Birthday! Grilled cheese sandwiches, veggies and milk.  We will be serving Juice Rush cherry blue raspberry for the fruit.

December 19- National Ugly Sweater Day! Wear your ugliest sweater. Breakfast for lunch and Jolly Sidekick frozen fruit juice for the fruit.

January 20- National Cheese Lovers Day. Mac and cheese, veggie and milk. Sidekick frozen fruit juice for the fruit.

February 14- Valentine's Day! Chicken nuggets, seasoned pasta, veggie and milk. Be-Mine Sidekick frozen fruit juice for the fruit.  

Also, the cafeteria has new prices for the snacks. The chips are $1.35, cookies are $.80 and ice cream is $1.50.

We’re proud to share how New York State Title Grants continue to support the academic success and well-being of our students. Federally funded programs such as Title I, II, III and IV provide vital resources that enhance instruction, support professional development for educators and expand access to services like literacy programs, technology integration and social-emotional learning. Of note, these grants benefit not only students in our public schools, but also eligible Lackawanna students attending private schools both within and beyond our district boundaries. By fostering equity and opportunity, Title Grants help ensure that every child regardless of background or school setting has the tools they need to thrive. We remain committed to using these funds to uplift all learners and strengthen our shared educational community. 

Below is a breakdown of the four major New York State Title Grants and how each one supports Lackawanna students in both public and eligible private schools: 

Title I – Improving Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged 
• Purpose: Provides funding to schools with high percentages of students from low-income families. 
• Impact: Supports reading and math interventions, after-school programs, summer learning, and family engagement efforts. 
• Reach: Benefits students in public schools and eligible private schools, helping close achievement gaps and promote equity. 

Title II – Supporting Effective Instruction 
• Purpose: Focuses on improving teacher and principal quality through professional development. 
• Impact: Funds workshops, coaching, and training to enhance instructional practices and leadership. 
• Reach: Helps educators in both public and private schools stay current with best practices, ultimately improving student outcomes. 

Title III – Language Instruction for English Learners and Immigrant Students 
• Purpose: Supports programs for students who are English learners (ELs) or recently immigrated. 
• Impact: Provides resources for bilingual education, ESL instruction and cultural integration. 
• Reach: Ensures EL students in public and participating private schools receive tailored support to thrive academically and socially. 

 Title IV – Student Support and Academic Enrichment 
• Purpose: Offers flexible funding to improve academic achievement and promote well-rounded education. 
• Impact: Can be used for STEM programs, arts education, mental health services, technology access, and school safety initiatives. 
• Reach: Encourages innovation and holistic development for students across public and eligible private schools. 

In conclusion, these grants work together to create a more inclusive, supportive and high-quality educational experience for all students, regardless of where they attend school. 

Fall Fest for ENL Families

The ENL Department is excited to invite all of our English Language Learner (ELL) families to a Fall Fest on Wednesday, November 6 from 4:30–6:30 p.m.

This event will be both fun and informative! Families can enjoy cider, donuts, games and prizes, while also learning more about student proficiency levels and testing. It’s a great chance to connect with teachers and staff, celebrate our students, and spend time together as a school community.

We hope to see you there!

District-Wide Safety Plan (2025-26)

LCSD has published its updated safety plan for the 2025-26 school year. The plan includes required annual updates and community input. It broadly covers response protocols, visitor access and safety measures.

No Cell Phone/Electronics Policy (Grades 6-12)

The district cell phone/electronics policy prohibits use of student cell phones/electronics during the school day, requiring phones to be secured in lockable bags. The policy aims to reduce distractions and improve student focus.

Arrival/Dismissal and Crossing Safety

A reminder to our families to be mindful and aware of your surroundings to ensure safe arrival and dismissal. Be sure to use crosswalks, watch out for children in the drop-off zones, and encourage children to wear refelctive gear when walking in darker mornings.

Backpack and Clear Bag Guidelines

In an effort to create a safer, more controlled environment, the district has specific guidelines when it comes to backpacks and bags. At the high school, full-sized backpacks during class hours are banned; students must use lockers and smaller bags/cinch sacks.At the middle school, only clear backpacks are permitted during transitions; non-clear bags must be stored.

 The OPENGATE system is a weapons-detection device manufactured by CEIA, capable of detecting a wide range of metallic threats (knives, pistols, assault weapons) with high throughput and minimal disruption (bags/backpacks can remain on the person unless alerted). 

LCSD began information sessions for families and community members in August 2025 to introduce the system. By the end of October, OPENGATE had been implemented in each school in the district, meaning all students and community members entering the building are required to pass through the OPENGATE weapon detection screening.

As the days get shorter, it’s becoming harder for drivers and crossing guards to see students clearly. 

Please slow down near our schools, follow the directions of crossing guards and remind your children to use crosswalks and stay alert. If walking early in the morning, wearing light or reflective clothing helps drivers see you.

Together, we can make sure every student arrives safely to school and returns home safely each day.

This year has been off to a great start; we were so excited to welcome back familiar faces and meet new ones. We continue to strengthen the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) process to meet students' needs across academic, behavioral and attendance domains. We have also begun collecting Social Emotional Learning data through the Panorama Screener. This data will not only allow us to improve the learning experiences for students in school but also provide targeted interventions in identified areas through Social Academic Intervention Groups (SAIG).  

This year, the Special Education Department will be participating in the Saturday Academy program starting in November. We will have activities for all ages to participate in with a focus on sensory exploration, fine motor skill development, gross motor skill development, language development and learn to learn skill development. We believe that every child benefits from learning important “learn-to-learn” skills early on. Skills like listening, following routines, working with peers and building independence set children up for success in Pre-K, Kindergarten and beyond. Early intervention and practice with these skills help students grow their confidence, increase their capacity to learn and develop a love of school from the very start. By focusing on these foundations now, we’re giving your child the tools they need to thrive both academically and socially.

Mark your calendar:

January 8, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m., we are hosting our FIRST ANNUAL CPSE to CSE Transition Information Session at Truman Road. This will be an opportunity for parents and guardians of transitioning preschool students to come learn about the process, see the building and learn about the programs and resources available through LCSD for students in Kindergarten and beyond! 

Family Engagement Night: Date To be Determined - Come learn what resources are available within the Lackawanna Community and Western New York to support families and students before, during and after graduation! 

For the 2025-26 school year, students will be using the following devices:

• Students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 3 have an iPad cart in their classrooms. Students will use these devices throughout the school day.
• Students in Grade 4-8 have a laptop cart in their classrooms. Students will use these devices throughout the school day.
• Students in Grades 9-12 have been assigned a laptop that they will utilize the same laptop for their years at the High School. They will be able to use this device both at home and school.
• We have reviewed expectations with students for iPad and/or Laptop care and usage. Please encourage students to be responsible with their device.

The Parent Portal is available online to enhance communication with parents/guardians of students attending our schools. To access Parent Portal, please use the button below:

The Parent Portal will allow you to access information such as student schedules, grades, attendance, progress reports and report cards. If you need assistance accessing the Parent Portal, please contact 716-821-5610 ext. 7790

Please be sure kids are at bus stops 10 minutes early and practice good behavior on the buses to ensure everyone gets to their destination on time and safely.

If you have any issues, contact Tara or Ryann in the transportation office: 716-821-5610 ex. 7767

If you have moved, please contact the registration office to change your address. 

Once the address is changed, the registration office will contact the transportation office to get the bus changed.