Pine Tree, North Main and Central Valley elementary schools celebrated Capabilities Week with a variety of activities that encouraged diversity and inclusion. Students were reminded about their inner beauty and the importance of treating others with compassion.
From sensory and visual exercises, capability awareness assemblies and special visitors, young Crusaders learned it’s always a Happy Friyay when we spread kindness! 🤗
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Safely transporting students every day is extremely important and no one knows this more than Evelyn Oetzel, our newest Crusader Cause for Applause recipient. For over three decades, Ms. Oetzel has been a school bus driver for the M-W community and continues to be a shining example of dedication, integrity and compassion—values that align seamlessly with our district's mission.
Congratulations, Ms. Oetzel! 💜👏
Ms. Nelson of MWHS was recognized by student Olivia Braddock and her family.
Olivia’s family said, “Ms. Nelson has made a big impact with her compassion, dedication, and encouragement. She truly believes in others, and goes above and beyond to help people reach their goals and feel confident along the way.”
Olivia’s message to Ms. Nelson, “Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you so much for all you do! I really appreciate the time and effort you put into helping us grow—not just as students, but as people. Thanks for being such an amazing teacher!” ☺️
Thank you, Ms. Nelson! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mrs. Cahill of Sapphire Elementary was recognized by the family of Nahuel S.
Nahuel’s family said, “Mrs. Cahill welcomed Nahuel as a new student to Sapphire with open arms. Her open communication with us and her support of his individual needs has been such a gift to our family. We are so grateful for her guidance and support throughout the year!”
Nahuel’s family’s message, “Thank you, Mrs. Cahill for being so supportive of Nahuel’s needs in the classroom setting. We are tremendously grateful for your guidance and care this year.”
Thank you, Mrs. Cahill! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam 😊
Mrs. Santoro of Pine Tree was recognized by the family of Vincent P.
Vincent P.’s family said, “Mrs. Santoro has brought the love of school back to Vincent. After struggling last year and getting discouraged, she has helped Vincent make strides this year. Her love for teaching and the children really shine in the extra steps she takes.”
Vincent’s family’s message, “We are so happy and grateful that we had Mrs. Santoro this year! Vincent’s disposition has totally changed. Your kindness and patience does not go unnoticed and it is so appreciated!” 😍
Thank you, Mrs. Santoro! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mrs. Flood of Smith Clove was recognized by the family of Landon G.
Landon G.’s family said, “Mrs. Flood is wonderful, always so attentive and in tune to her kids and their needs. Anytime I had any types of questions or concerns she was always easily able to contact and communication is key, and so very appreciated. She’s so special.”
Landon’s family’s message to Mrs. Flood, “You are a super star!!! We are so happy Landon got to be with you in his final year at Smith Clove!! Landon always talks about how nice, helpful and caring you are.” 🤗
Thank you, Mrs. Flood! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Ms. Leone of Pine Tree was recognized by student Scarlett S.
Scarlett S. said, “I am happy I’m in EXPAND! I get to create and learn fun things in EXPAND. Ms. Leone helped me learn a lot of things. I’m so grateful.”
Scarlett’s message to Ms. Leone, “Thank you so much for being my EXPAND teacher! I’m so glad that I get to learn from you in class. I learn facts and skills. Thank you!”
Thank you, Ms. Leone! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam 👏
Pine Tree fourth graders were visited by some very unique guests: therapy dogs, Seamus, Hope and Willow of the Hudson Valley Paws for a Cause. Demonstrating how sweet and calm they were, students learned how spending time with these specially trained dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety if you’re having a rough day. 🐾♥️
Mrs. Mallette of Smith Clove was recognized by the families of Skylar D. and Mckinley D.
Skylar’s family said, “I forgot to pack Skylar’s snack for the day and it was taco Tuesday and she is not a fan of tacos. I felt so bad that I forgot to put a snack in for her since she must have been hungry all day. She said Mrs. Mallette was so kind at snack time and gave her a bag of apples. Really touched my heart that she noticed Skylar didn’t have anything for a snack that day. I really appreciate her kindness and empathy to her children. She is very observant and kind.”
Skylar’s family’s message, “Thank you Mrs. Mallette for all you do and this little moment of kindness for my little girl Sky.” ☺️
Mckinley’s family’s message, “Mrs. Mallette is the first teacher Mckinley has encountered since her time in daycare. The transition from daycare to a NYS Elementary school is not an easy one for all children and Mrs. Mallette has played a vital part in Mckinley's growth and development.”
Mckinley's message to Mrs. Mallette, “Thank you for your patience and gentle correction with Mckinley. She is a loving, active and intelligent young girl who may be stubborn at times but she hears and values the lessons you teach her because she often comes home and repeats them to us.” 🥹
Thank you, Mrs. Mallette! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Ms. Devine of Pine Elementary was recognized by student Averie O.
Averie O. said, “Ms. Devine has plenty of patience and is always kind to me. She has helped me a lot.”
Averie’s message to Ms. Devine, “Thank you for always being patient with me during spelling class.”
Thank you, Ms. Devine! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mrs. Dudzik of Pine Tree was recognized by the family of Myles P. who said, “Thank you for everything that you do for Myles. You're a great teacher!” 🤗
Thank you, Mrs. Dudzik! #attitutdeofgratitude #mwfam
Capabilities Week kicked off with a visit from M-W alumna Allison Murphy, who spoke to CV fifth grade students in a presentation titled, “Just Ask.” Allison inspired students with her stories of determination and encouraged them to work hard to achieve their dreams.
After the presentation, Allison invited students to ask questions about her life experiences. They were surprised to discover how much they shared with their fellow Crusader—from beach vacations to parties, and spending time with family and friends.
Allison is a college graduate, volunteer and changemaker who reminded the class, “Everyone is different, that’s what makes the world special.” 💜💪
Ms. Mirro of Smith Clove Elementary was recognized by the families of Riley R., Laila K., Ran Y. and Deysi G.
Riley R.’s family said, “Ms. Mirro is the most amazing Kindergarten teacher! She has created a fun, enriching, school environment which has fostered a love of school and learning for her students!”
Riley’s family’s message to Ms. Mirro, “Thank you so very much for being you! Riley adores you and we could not have asked for a better kindergarten start to school for her! Thank you for all the little things you do. We see you and we really appreciate you.”
Laila K.’s family said, “Ms. Mirro is incredible. My daughter has been having the most memorable kindergarten experience thanks to Ms. Mirro. She is so kind, patient, nurturing, communicative and has been such an important part of all the kid’s academic future. My family and I, especially my daughter, are so thankful to have her as her Kindergarten teacher.”
Laila K.’s family’s message to Ms. Mirro, “Thank you for playing such an important role in nurturing and teaching our children. You truly are so kind and an amazing teacher! We appreciate all you do!!”
Ran Y.’s family said, “This teacher has made a meaningful impact on our family with her patience and attention to detail. Through her careful guidance, our child gradually adapted to the role of a student this school year and began to enjoy learning.”
Ran Y.’s family’s message, “Thank you for your dedication, patience, and care. We truly appreciate the positive influence you've had on our child’s growth this year. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, thank you for everything!”
Deysi G.’s mom’s message, “I want to thank Ms. Mirro from the bottom of my heart. My daughter and I feel very happy with her learning progress.”
Deysi G.’s message, “I am grateful for your teaching. Thank you very much, Ms. Mirro!” ☺️
#attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mr. Hyman of MWHS was recognized by the family of Silvana Catalano.
Silvana’s family said, “In Mr. Hyman’s Humanities class, Silvana learned the importance and excitement of critical thinking and open discussion. With his guidance, her confidence in teamwork and public speaking SOARED! She will take these skills, as well as great memories of his class into her future.”
Silvana’s family’s message, “Thank you for your influence, Mr. Hyman!”
#attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mrs. Caruso of MWHS was nominated by student Shayne Haberlin who said, “Mrs. Caruso helped me write my memoir and is supportive of all her students.”
Shayne’s message, “Thank you, Mrs. Caruso!!” ✍️👏
#attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
REMINDER: All M-W schools and offices will be closed on, May 23-26, in honor of Memorial Day. We remember those who sacrificed their lives while serving so that we can live in freedom.
If you’re searching for sunshine on this gloomy day, check out these big smiles!
Through a hands-on chick-hatching incubation program initiated by Mr. George Steele, kindergarten and first grade students at Smith Clove explored foundational science concepts in life cycles, animal development, and responsibility. By observing fertilized eggs, tracking incubation time, and witnessing chicks hatch, students engaged with topics such as the needs of living things, stages of animal growth, and the conditions necessary for life.
This immersive experience nurtured curiosity, built observation skills, and helped children make real-world connections to biological processes. It also promoted empathy and care as students learned to gently handle and care for the chicks post-hatching. 🐣💜
Mr. Frutchey of MWHS was recognized by the family of Jackson Oliva.
Jackson’s family said, “Mr. Frutchey consistently provides excellent support in a safe and welcoming environment.”
Jackson’s family’s message to Mr. Frutchey, “Thank you for your consistent and kind support for Jackson during his time at Monroe-Woodbury!”
Thank you, Mr. Frutchey! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam 👏
Mrs. Spisany of Pine Tree was recognized by the family of Mark T. and student Scarlett S.
Mark T.’s family said, “We are truly grateful to Linda Spisany for her kindness, patience, and support. She goes above and beyond to help her students feel welcome, confident, and motivated to learn. Her encouragement has made a big difference in helping us adjust to a new environment and improve in reading and communication. She sees the potential in every student and helps them believe in themselves. We feel lucky to have such a caring and dedicated teacher. We are very grateful for her help, warmth, and the care she gives to our child.”
Scarlett S. said, “Mrs. Spisany makes me feel supported, smart, and most of all happy. She is a great teacher!”
Scarlett’s message, “Dear Mrs. Spisany, Thank you so much. Every day I look forward to seeing you. Thank you for being the GREATEST teacher ever! No one can EVER replace you. Your smile is sweeter than candy. I wish I had you every year for a teacher! Thank you!” 🍭😊
Thank you, Mrs. Spisany! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
