Dear Putnam Valley Community:
As our student organizations complete their holiday drives, hundreds of coats and toys will soon be on their way to new homes. In the spirit of giving, we continue to see the selfless acts of many members of the Putnam Valley School District community, who always show a willingness to help others.
As we wrap up the final week before the well-deserved holiday recess, we reflect on all that has been accomplished. Recently, our very own Eduardo Recinos, a junior at PVHS, was named the recipient of the 2023 Heart of a Giant Award, our cheerleaders brought home a state championship, and the school district recognized the Putnam Valley Volunteer Fire Department with Pride in Putnam Valley for their exceptional support of our students and their continued volunteer service to our entire community.
Students continue to excel in the classroom and through extracurricular activities. In the last several days, I had the pleasure of watching our middle school band and chorus students perform, our elementary school students learn and explore through holiday craft projects, and I was inspired by our budding scientists as I was able to assist our fourth graders as they dissected owl pellets. Our students, supported by an incredible staff, are engaged in their learning. They are building relationships and are actively involved in community service.
A recent visit of students and parents from the Garrison School District served as an opportunity to highlight the learning experience we offer here in Putnam Valley. In fact, over 50% of the current grade eight students (approximately 13 students) from Garrison have chosen Putnam Valley High School to continue their high school education. Garrison students are a welcome addition to the Putnam Valley school community and their tuition, paid by the Garrison school district, becomes a revenue source for our taxpayers.
While the prospect of yet another holiday recess without any snow on the ground may dampen some spirits, we encourage everyone to take advantage of this valuable time to reconnect, reenergize, and reflect on the past year. Upon returning to school in 2024, our work will continue.
We remain committed to fostering success, recognizing achievements, and collectively striving to be better – better educators, better students, and better humans.
Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy New Year!
Sincerely,
Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools