Is It Over...

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Having a chance to network recently with some Superintendents throughout the State, it is astonishing to realize that every district, regardless of size, is having struggles with transportation, COVID, and a plain general sense of normalcy. Large districts having to expand walking zones for students or having neighboring districts help transport kids because they are 40-60% short on drivers. Districts already going remote for a month in an effort to find a way to get kids to school and/or maintain their buildings being open. Districts with as much as 50% of their student body in quarantine. Sometimes, you realize that the grass isn't greener. I think about the issues that we have endured, overcome, or continue to endure in Rome and you realize that no matter how bad it is or has been, it could be worse. You hear people that want to complain about anything and everything. Nothing can ever be right or good enough. And then you visit one of our schools and see our amazing staff working with kids. Everything is put into perspective. The closure of Staley has made conditions throughout the district less than ideal, but our team of professionals continues to work through things. Sure, it is not easy. Sure, everyone has something that they could complain about. Sure, the easiest thing would be to give the bare minimum. But our group does not do that. On a consistent basis, our teachers, support staff, and administrators give all they can, every day for our kids. I wish I could say that things will be over soon and that the world as we once knew it will return. Unfortunately, that does not look likely right now. However, what we do have is a great team of people who are committed to making the learning experience the best it could possibly be. Living in public education right now has never been more like being a professional athlete in terms of blocking out the noise. Given everything that could possibly go wrong or could be improved on a daily basis, our world is littered with critics and couch heroes who know better. For all thsoe that give it their all, day in and day out, regardless of the challenges that are faced; block out the noise and keep bringing it. Together, our teachers, support staff, administrators, and FAMILIES will get through this and be better for it. While we don't know when the ride will be over, we do know that when we work and stick together, amazing things can happen!! 

Free Family Three Week Challenge

Fall into fall with the YMCA and their three-week challenge, designed to get you and your family engaged in physical and fun activities as the weather starts to change in Central NY. Activities for the specific week will be posted to their website and Facebook page and include Zumba, Archery, Swimming, Boot Camp, Yoga, Interactive Room, Badminton, Jump Rope, Pickle Ball, and Crafts. For more information, please view their flyer at: https://app.peachjar.com/flyers/2137352/districts/32521

Oneida County Boost OC

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. has announced the official launch of the Boost OC vaccination incentive program that awards $100 in digital gift cards to be used at local businesses and organizations. First announced in Picente’s State of the County Address earlier this year, Oneida County’s Boost OC program will issue $100 digital gift cards through a phone app to any resident who was vaccinated after July 15, 2021. The gift card can then be redeemed at a variety of local participating businesses and organizations. Oneida County has partnered with Prizeout to administer Boost OC, which utilizes federal funds the county received from the American Rescue Plan. Businesses and organizations interested in participating should visit www.BoostOC.org to create an account. Eligible vaccinated residents will be contacted by the county. For more information, please visit the County website at: https://www.ocgov.net/content/oneida-county-launches-boost-oc-vaccination-incentive-program

PeachJar Reminder

Just a reminder that the Rome City School District electronically distributes fliers that are typically copied and sent home through backpacks in an effort to save paper and the environment. If you have not already signed up for the program, you can do so by visiting our website at https://app.peachjar.com/flyers. You can register for the program by clicking "My Account". 




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