Superintendent’s Message

Dear Putnam Valley Community:

We are committed to ensuring that every member of the Putnam Valley community has the information they need to make an informed decision regarding the District’s facilities project vote scheduled for Tuesday, January 28.

Please take a few minutes to review the information below and please consider joining me for a Superintendent’s Listening Hour on Wednesday, January 15, from 6 pm to 7 pm in the High School Library. This Q&A format is a great opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions, and learn about the impact this project will have on our schools.

Please join us on the 15th and don’t hesitate to contact us directly with any questions.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Vote – Tuesday, 1/28/25 – @ PVES – 6 am to 9 pm
Project Details
Board of Education Presentation – video
FAQs
Registered to vote? / Absentee Ballot Information
Newsletter mailed to all residences within PVCSD

Dear Putnam Valley Community:

Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy 2025!

Inside this newsletter you will find highlights of how our District is strengthening connections within our community and creating meaningful opportunities for our students. We are also providing key details about the upcoming capital project vote focused on infrastructure needs and upgrades.

For more than a year, the Capital Improvement and Facilities Planning Committee composed of community members, teachers, parents, support staff, and administrators worked diligently reviewing documents, touring buildings, and meeting with architects and financial advisors before deciding on a scope of work that will be presented for voter approval on Tuesday, January 28.

The committee remained dedicated to proposing a project that addressed critical infrastructure needs, improved academic spaces, addressed the needs of our cultural arts and athletics program, and offered the District long-term savings through the implementation of sustainable energy sources (solar & geothermal); all at no additional cost to the taxpayer. To ensure a tax-neutral proposal, the District will use $2.5M of District capital reserve funds and strategically replace retiring debt. The total principal cost of the project cannot exceed $14M. In addition, based on our current building aid ratio, the District expects to receive approximately $9.2M in state aid.

Current estimates provided by the District’s architects project an 18-month design, approval, award, and mobilization timeline. The work must begin in the summer of 2026 to capitalize on the funding opportunities that allow this project to be completed without raising taxes. Therefore, a vote date in the winter of 2025 was necessary to meet our anticipated start date while minimizing the project’s impact on our students and staff. This approach, at this time, ensures the project is fully funded without adding a tax burden on the community.

We hope the information provided will help you cast an informed vote on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The polls will be open from 6 am – 9 pm at Putnam Valley Elementary School.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together we are building a foundation for the future.

Thank you,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Good morning,

Due to the forecast for inclement weather later today, all Putnam Valley Schools will dismiss early, today, December 20, 2024.  All school will dismiss ONE hour earlier than normal.  Please be prepared to meet buses one hour earlier than usual.

All afterschool activities are canceled.

For families that use the Putnam Valley Parks and Recreation Children’s Center, please note, that they do not hold an after-school session when the schools need to call an early dismissal.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Putnam Valley Community: 

Over the past 48 hours, we have had the opportunity to debrief and reflect on this week’s incident. I would like to thank the students and families who had the courage to speak up when they became aware of a dangerous situation that took place in our High School earlier this week. 

School safety and security remains our highest priority.  When the safety and security of our schools are threatened, the district will react immediately, and the consequences for those who endanger others will be swift and severe. The safety of our community depends on our commitment to each other.

Anytime we are provided the opportunity to improve our practices, we will do so.  Follow-up meetings with our staff, students, and school security consultants have already begun, and each stakeholder group will provide us with important information that we will use to better ensure the safety and security of our students and staff.  

Please see Mr. Mello’s email below for additional information:

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As you know, Putnam Valley High School experienced a disturbing situation on Monday. We are grateful to those students who came forward with information regarding this worrisome event. Your courage in speaking up and being an upstander is commendable. We encourage all students to follow suit and speak up when they witness their peers making unhealthy or unsafe choices. Please remind your children to seek out a trusted adult, whether it be a family member, staff member, counselor, or administrator, when they are concerned for the safety and well-being of our school community.

We also want to commend the parents who took the initiative to inform law enforcement about the dangerous situation. Your vigilance and cooperation are vital in ensuring the safety of our school community. We urge all parents to report any concerns or suspicions about dangerous or harmful activity they may have to school officials or law enforcement.

The leadership team at Putnam Valley High School has been working diligently to address this situation. We have met multiple times a day to debrief, plan, and coordinate with our emergency response team, staff, district-level administrators, law enforcement, and our security firm, Altaris.

To further communicate, our students received an email Wednesday evening from Dr. Luft, and we read a message during announcements on Thursday morning. We will also host a meeting for our student leaders on Monday and grade-level community meetings on Wednesday.

We need to empower everyone in our school community to speak up when faced with situations that compromise our safety and security.  It takes courage to be the person who keeps other people safe and to speak up, show up, and hold the line, even when it feels like you’re standing alone.  By saying something, you are also getting the person in distress the help that they need.  That’s how you support your friends and community.

We understand that this incident has caused concern and anxiety among our students, staff,  and community. Please know that the safety and well-being of our students remain our top priority. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment.

Sincerely,

Mr. Matt Mello
Principal
Putnam Valley High School

Putnam Valley has always been an exemplary district as it relates to school safety and security.  It is our intention to remain a model school that others follow. Thank you for your continued partnership and support in helping us achieve this goal.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools
Putnam Valley Central School District

Dear Families,

Late last evening, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office contacted our district regarding an allegation that a student was photographed with what appeared to be a weapon while on school grounds. Upon receiving this report, the Sheriff’s Office immediately launched an investigation, which continued into this morning.

The student in question was interviewed offsite from the high school campus and did not attend school today. At this time, the investigation remains active, and we are fully collaborating with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office as they continue their work. There is no threat to the safety and security of our schools, and normal operations are continuing district-wide.

Please be aware that all statements or actions that suggest a threat to the safety and security of our school populations are taken seriously. Any such action comes with significant consequences, even if they are made jokingly and/or are deemed as not credible. We need the assistance of the entire community as we strive to provide the safest possible learning environment.

Here is how you can help:

• Immediately report any concern to the school district and law enforcement
• Please speak to your student(s) about their actions on social media. A post that may seem funny may lead to significant school discipline and/or criminal charges.
• Please also speak with your student(s) about reporting any concerning post(s) to you, the school administration, or the police department immediately. Every concerning post or statement must be fully investigated.

The Putnam Valley School District and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office takes the safety of all students and staff very seriously and recognizes the need to be transparent regarding incidents that may impact our school community. We will always act out of an abundance of caution to ensure all our students and staff are safe both inside and outside of our buildings.

Your cooperation is essential in maintaining the safety of our school community.

Thank you

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Putnam Valley Community:

Community Forum – Thursday, December 12, 2024 – 5 pm – PVHS Library – Please join us.

On May 18, 2023, the Board of Education approved a resolution to create a Capital Improvement and Facilities Planning Committee to explore future capital improvement needs of the school district.  This committee was composed of community members, teachers, parents, administrators, and members of our support staff.  Committee members worked diligently for more than a year, reviewing documents, touring buildings, and meeting with architects and financial advisors before finally deciding on a scope of work that would be recommended to the Board of Education.  Recognizing infrastructure needs as a priority, project updates and presentations were conducted during public meetings on June 20, 2024, and October 29, 2024.  The Board of Education passed a resolution allowing for the creation of a $14,000,000 facilities project proposition that will be voted on by the community on January 28, 2025.

The Facilities Planning Committee remained dedicated to proposing a project that addressed critical infrastructure needs, improved academic spaces, addressed the needs of our cultural arts and athletics program, and offered the district long-term savings through the implementation of sustainable energy sources (solar & geothermal); all at no additional cost to the taxpayer.  By utilizing a combination of New York State Building Aid, District Capital Reserve Funds, and Retiring Debt, all of this work can be accomplished without any additional cost to the taxpayer.  In fact, based on our current building aid ratio, we are projecting that approximately $9,200,000 will be covered by State Aid and $2,500,000 will be expended from the District’s already established Capital Reserve Fund. The remaining portion of the project will be offset by the retiring debt the district would no longer need to pay.

The proposed project includes the following highlights:

Elementary School – Renovate the existing library into a modern innovative learning space, install playground equipment for K-2 students to increase and improve accessibility, expand and upgrade the nurse’s suite (1972), and complete the full integration of geothermal heating and cooling avoiding the costly replacement of aging boilers and eliminating the use of oil. Upgrade stage lighting and controls.

Middle School – Improve and resurface the parking lot area focusing on pedestrian safety, bus traffic, lighting, and improved water drainage. Create new small group instructional spaces and offices, freeing up full-size classrooms. Replace outdated HVAC equipment that will allow for more efficient heating and cooling. Upgrade performing arts lighting and controls.

High School – Replace the failing parking lot retaining wall, improve and resurface the parking lot, improve water management and drainage, install solar panels, and replace the original roofs. Provide accessible access to the high school courtyard and outdoor learning space. Renovate the existing weight room into a modern fitness center and dance studio.

A referendum will be placed before voters on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The polls will be open from 6 am – 9 pm at Putnam Valley Elementary School.

A community forum will be held on Thursday, December 12 at 5 pm in the high school library to share details and answer any questions.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend. To join virtually, please visit pvcsd.org or click here. Be sure to visit our website where you will find more information about the project click here.  We will continue to update this site with additional information.

Thank you,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Five Fast Financial Facts
FAQ Document
Facilities Project 2024

Dear Putnam Valley Community:

On May 18, 2023, the Board of Education approved a resolution to create a Capital Improvement and Facilities Planning Committee to explore future capital improvement needs of the school district.  This committee was composed of community members, teachers, parents, administrators, and members of our support staff.  Committee members worked diligently for more than a year, reviewing documents, touring buildings, and meeting with architects and financial advisors before finally deciding on a scope of work that would be recommended to the Board of Education.  Project updates and presentations were conducted during public meetings on June 20, 2024, and October 29, 2024.  The Board of Education passed a resolution allowing for the creation of a $14,000,000 facilities project proposition that will be voted on by the community on January 28, 2025.

The Facilities Planning Committee remained dedicated to proposing a project that addressed critical infrastructure needs, improved academic spaces, addressed the needs of our cultural arts and athletics program, and offered the district long-term savings through the implementation of sustainable energy sources (solar & geothermal); all at no additional cost to the taxpayer.

By utilizing a combination of New York State Building Aid, District Capital Reserve Funds, and Retiring Debt, all of this work can be accomplished without any additional cost to the taxpayer.  In fact, we are projecting that approximately $9,280,0000 will be covered by State Aid, $2,500,000 will be expended from the District’s already established Capital Reserve Fund, and the remaining portion of the project will be offset by the retiring debt the district will no longer need to pay.

The proposed project includes the following highlights:

Elementary School – Renovate the existing library into a modern innovative learning space, install playground equipment for K-2 students to increase and improve accessibility, expand and upgrade the nurse’s suite, and complete the full integration of geothermal heating and cooling. Upgrade performing arts lighting and controls.

Middle School – Improve and resurface the parking lot area focusing on pedestrian safety, bus traffic, lighting, and improved water drainage. Create new small group instructional spaces and offices, freeing up full-size classrooms. Replace outdated HVAC equipment that will allow for more efficient heating and cooling. Upgrade performing arts lighting and controls.

High School – Replace the failing parking lot retaining wall, improve and resurface the parking lot, improve water management and drainage, install solar panels, and replace the original flat roofs. Provide accessible access to the high school courtyard and outdoor learning space. Renovate the existing weight room into a modern fitness center and dance studio.

A referendum will be placed before voters on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The polls will be open from 6 am – 9 pm at Putnam Valley Elementary School.

We will hold a community forum on Thursday, December 12 in the high school library at PVHS to share details and answer any questions.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend. To join virtually, please visit pvcsd.org or click here. Be sure to visit our website where you will find more information about the project click here.  We will continue to update this site with additional information.

Thank you,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Five Fast Financial Facts
FAQ Document
Facilities Project 2024

Dear Putnam Valley Community,

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am especially thankful to be part of the Putnam Valley School community, surrounded by talented and passionate teachers, administrators, support and service staff members, all who do their best to make Putnam Valley the amazing place it is today. I am equally grateful for our fantastic students who are eager to learn, explore, and grow. Their talents and passions are continually on display both inside and outside of the classroom.

As we prepare for winter, we are reminded of all the successes we enjoyed this fall. Several of our sports teams brought home sectional titles and we celebrated many individual athletic achievements. Our high school performance of Girls in the Boat highlighted the talents of many of our students both on and behind the stage, and I encourage our community to be sure to see the high school spring musical in April.

The Putnam Valley Food Pantry continues to appreciate the community spirit of our staff and students who organize food drives each Thanksgiving. The response from our community is always generous and is deeply appreciated by the pantry which helps to support families across our area. These acts of kindness continue to bring us together as a community.

Looking ahead, our High School’s National Honor Society is currently holding its annual Toy Drive with all donations going directly to the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. Our Middle School Student Council and the High School National Honor Society will be holding coat drives and drop boxes can be found in the entrances of our buildings.

Yesterday evening, I had the pleasure of attending the Gratitude Festival at the High School. This annual event, hosted by our Music Honor Society provides a special opportunity for our students to share their talents. Current and former students gathered to express gratitude and appreciation for one another and all who support them. It was truly heartwarming.

I am grateful for the generosity of our community, the compassion of our students and staff, and the partnership of everyone who helps make our schools and community a special place.

Enjoy the Thanksgiving break. Take care and stay well.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jeremy Luft Superintendent of Schools

We close this year’s First Responder Recognition events with this Friday’s football game.  First responders are invited to lead our football team onto the turf field.  All first responders are encouraged to join us at 5:30 at the top of the hill in the middle school parking lot. Thank you!

Dear Putnam Valley Community:

In honor of First Responder Appreciation Day 2024, we will once again hold special events at each building and would appreciate the participation of our First Responder families and town residents. We are looking for all First Responders (volunteer and professional) – law enforcement, firefighters, medical professionals, military personnel, etc. If you are interested and available to attend any of these events, please complete the form below.   (Parents, Grandparents, Siblings)

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ATTENDED! Putnam Valley Elementary School – First Responder Visit – Friday, October 25:  Spend 10 to 15 minutes with one or more of our classes and tell the students a little bit about your typical day, answer questions, and/or read a book about your work. (Arrival 9:15 am)

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ATTENDED!  Putnam Valley Middle and High School – First Responders/Youth Corps – Thursday, October 24:  We are inviting youth corps leaders and other first responders to share information about their service. How did you get involved? What was your path to your current position? What advice do you have for young people interested in serving their community as a volunteer or beginning a career as a first responder?

Community Event at Putnam Valley High School – Honoring our First Responders – Friday, November 1, 5:30pm: We invite all first responders, living or working in Putnam Valley to be recognized before our football game. Kickoff is at 6:00 pm.  We would like our first responders to lead the team down onto the field at approximately 5:30 pm and be recognized at the start of the game.  Your children are welcome and encouraged to walk with you. (Please arrive at 5:15 pm, arrive in uniform if possible)

These events provide an opportunity for our community to say THANK YOU to all first responders. We are grateful for your participation.

​Please Click Here to Access the Form

Sincerely,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools

Good afternoon,

I’d like to begin by expressing my gratitude for your flexibility this morning. I know it is never easy for families when schools are closed unexpectedly.  I’m happy to report that the police investigation has concluded and the suspect is in custody. The school district has been given the “all clear” to resume normal activities.

Therefore, our girls field hockey game will go on as scheduled at 5 pm on the High School Turf.  Tonight’s Board of Education meeting will also take place at its regularly scheduled time of 7 pm at Putnam Valley High School.

What occurred today was a tragedy and our condolences go out to those affected in our community and in Somers.  Today was also a reminder of the great deal of gratitude we owe our first responders. The Putnam Valley School District is grateful for the quick and decisive actions of our law enforcement community.  They were in direct communication with district administration, invited us into their command center, and advised us on how to best proceed.

Please remember to update PowerSchool, our student information system, with any updates to your contact information.

Thank you,

Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools