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
Congratulations to Wildredo Ramos and Dawn Elsaesser of M-W’s Transportation Team for placing second and third respectively in the 49th Annual New York School Bus Safety Competition (NYSBSC).
During this competition, drivers competed in three categories while demonstrating their professionalism, skill and dedication to pupil transportation.
Outstanding work, team! 🏆
On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, District residents passed the $236,759,257 budget for the 2025-2026 school year by a vote of 1,038 yes votes to 411 no votes — an approval rating of 71.6 percent. Voters also approved a Capital Project Bond Proposition, 1,077 yes votes to 375 no votes — an approval rating of 74.2 percent.
Incumbent Suzanne Donahue was elected with 1,148 votes; incumbent Jeffery Reynolds was elected with 1,073 votes; and Dulaya Santikul was elected with 963 votes.
District officials would like to thank members of the M-W community for their continued support of our schools.
Mrs. Kassel of North Main was recognized by the family of Charlie E.
Charlie E.’s mom said, “Mrs. Kassel truly cared about supporting and making an impact in her life. She would always be willing and suggest giving up her free time before, during, and after school to help her even after she was no longer in her class. Truly an outstanding leader who helped change the school landscape for my daughter!”
Charlie E.’s mom remarked, “You know how we feel about you! Truly the best teacher there can be!!!!!”
Thank you, Mrs. Kassel! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
Mrs. Barbulean of MWHS was recognized by student Julia Dorry.
Julia said, “Mrs. Barb encouraged me so much my freshman year to be the best I could be and do my work to the best of my abilities. She believed in me when a lot of other teachers would've given up. She will forever be my favorite teacher at M-W.”
Julia’s message to Mrs. Barbulean, “Thank you for pushing me and being an amazing teacher.”
Thank you, Mrs. Barbulean! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam
REMINDER: School budget vote today, Tuesday, May 20, 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. at Central Valley Elementary.
Mrs. Bates of MWHS was recognized by the family of Troy Capen.
Troy’s mom said, “Mrs. Bates made physics fun and engaging. My son loved every moment in her class. She has gone above and beyond!
Troy’s mom’s message, “Thank you for supporting my son in and out of the classroom!”
Thank you, Mrs. Bates! #attitudeofgratitude #mwfam 💜💪
This week we celebrate the people who make up the Monroe-Woodbury Transportation team as they continue to work hard ensuring our students are safely transported to and from school. From morning greetings to afternoon goodbyes the transportation team shows up strong, every single day.
Happy School Transportation Appreciation Week! 🚌
