Monroe-Woodbury Central School District -

Julia Olstein, a MWHS Junior, will serve on the New York State Leadership Council for Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) for the 2026-2027 school year. Julia is the first Junior from MWHS who will serve on the SADD State Leadership Council.

Congratulations, Julia! 👏

As we continue to recognize Capabilities Week, Pine Tree elementary was delighted to host guests from the Winslow Therapeutic Center. Stacy Lenz and Elissa Velez visited the school with a unique companion, a horse affectionately named "Skunk." Despite the unusual name, this gentle giant proved to be incredibly sweet. Skunk and the rest of the herd at the center serve as "four-legged healers," providing vital support to individuals facing emotional challenges or physical impairments.

Central Valley also joined in the festivities by welcoming animal companions Harper and Twiggy from The Seeing Eye. While Harper is already a working guide dog, Twiggy is currently in training. Trainer Tricia Nussenbaum provided a demonstration of Twiggy's education, showing how she learns to ignore distractions, maintain focus, and navigate steadily on her owner's left side to provide a safe path for everyone.

These animal partners play a significant role in supporting people with disabilities. Throughout the week, our young Crusaders gained a deeper understanding that while some disabilities are easily seen, many others are not visible. 💜

Congratulations to four Monroe-Woodbury students who were recognized at the Outstanding Student Honorees Luncheon hosted by OU BOCES. This annual event honors academic excellence by graduating students. Crusaders were joined by their family, teachers, and administrators to celebrate this wonderful achievement. 

The students recognized were:

Prasad Saha, Valedictorian
Luka Joncic, Salutatorian
Jade Casey
Olivia Sanford

Hats off to these outstanding students! 🎉💜

Crusaders at North Main received many special visitors today. The MWHS Drama Club Kids on the Block Troupe participated in Capabilities Week and NM was their first stop. This talented group performed for third graders as they spoke about bullying, being a good friend and different ways students learn.

Fourth graders were also captivated by the "Think First" assembly, which highlighted essential safety tips for preventing injuries both at home and outdoors. This engaging session taught students about the critical roles of the spinal cord and brain and allowed them to ask questions about navigating life and overcoming challenges following an injury.

The computer lab was also buzzing with activity as fifth grade students participated in adaptive learning exercises. They used their eyes and head movements to work the tablets to communicate.

These meaningful experiences remind Crusaders to continue to show kindness and empathy toward one another. 💜

@monroewoodburyhs

A butterfly cage, goldfish, and new plant life sprouting by the window is what you see when you enter Kristen Beers’ third grade classroom at Central Valley Elementary. Mrs. Beers was the latest district employee to receive the “gift of time” during Dr. Norman’s Super Sub assignment.

After a brief introduction by Principal Michael Barone, Superintendent Norman jumped right into the afternoon lesson. Students broke into small groups and read short stories such as “The Race of 1903” where they described the first automobiles and how they traveled across the country. Superintendent Norman also led a lively discussion about Memorial Day and the significance of wearing red poppies on this day. This led to an arts and craft assignment where students colored poppies alongside the American flag.

Bursting with curiosity about his military adventures, the students peppered Superintendent Norman with questions and he even showed off his best “jumping out of a helicopter” move.

Crusaders in Mrs. Beers’ class did so well, they earned extra recess at the end of the day—and the weather was perfect! 🦋😁

Reminder: The MWHS Student Government is excited to announce its third annual Color Run on Sunday, May 31, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at MWHS to raise awareness for mental health. All are welcome! Scan the QR code to register.🌈🏃🏻‍♂️🏃🏾‍♀️

From May 26 - June 1, North Main, Pine Tree and Central Valley Elementary will celebrate kindness and acceptance through its annual Capabilities Week celebration. Crusaders in grades 2-5 will participate in a variety of activities designed to highlight the strengths and unique challenges that people with disabilities may face. Throughout the week, students will participate in hands-on sensory and visual exhibits, hear from amazing motivational speakers, and even interact with therapy animals!

Second graders at Pine Tree kicked off the week with a special visit from Lola, of Hudson Valley Paws for a Cause. Lola is a therapy dog who can make people smile bright whenever she enters a room. Accompanying Lola was her owner, Karl Seiter who answered many questions from eager young Crusaders. Mr. Seiter informed the students Lola visits schools, hospitals, and even greets morning workers at various supermarkets in the area. Students even got the chance to pet Lola— what a great way to start the day! 💜🐶

Members of the Transporation Department were glam ready as they attended their second annual awards ceremony. The bus garage was briefly transformed into a chic venue—red carpet included—where staff enjoyed a variety of delicious entrees and desserts prepared by their colleagues before the formal recognition began.

This new tradition gives team members the opportunity to nominate their peers across several categories including the Rookie of the Year, Best Communicator, and Best Team.

Jessie Lazar, Director of Transportation, highlighted the spirit of the department, stating, "Transportation works because it is a collaboration. Drivers, monitors, mechanics, dispatchers, secretaries, administrators—everyone plays a role. This department works because everybody brings something to the table."

Thank you to the entire M-W Transportation Team for everything they do! 🤩

The creative talent of our Crusaders is truly remarkable! Alex Lopez, a MWMS seventh grader, designed an incredible 3D bus model to honor School Transportation Appreciation Week. Excellent job!

The district is pleased to reintroduce Summer Enrichment programs, including multi-day courses in STEM, art and crochet, led by M-W teachers during July and August for students K-8. All skill levels are welcome! Stay tuned for more program details, pricing and schedules.🔬🧶🎨

Led by Art Teacher, Animah Wingfield, CVE Crusaders proudly showcased their projects during their art show! 🎨🖌️

The district is proud to announce the 2026 Hall of Distinction inductees! These outstanding individuals and one exceptional team truly embody the Crusader spirit through their dedication, compassion and hard work. Congratulations to all!💜

Sharon DiGironimo
Lawrence "Larry" Huntington
Ron Montalto
Megan Patrignelli
Richard Wilson

Honorary Recognition: 2005 State Champion football team
(20th anniversary)

Visit the district website www.mw.k12.ny.us to read their full bios. Inductees will be honored during an induction ceremony on Thursday, October 29, at MWHS.👏⭐️

On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, District residents passed the $245,052,094 budget for the 2026-2027 school year by a vote of 1,023 yes votes to 395 no votes — an approval rating of 72.1 percent. Proposition 2 passed with 1,145 yes votes to 274 no votes — an approval rating of 80.7%.

Berny Vega was elected with 1,053 votes; Kiesha Tillman was elected with 923 votes; Bryan Bellino was elected with 901 votes and Monique Officer had 883 votes.

District officials would like to thank members of the M-W community for their continued support of our schools.

Have you ever seen an octopus fly? What about a giant parachute held by tiny hands? No? Check out these bright smiles from Kindergartners during this year’s K-fest featuring Crusaders from Sapphire and Smith Clove Elementary! 😊💜

REMINDER: 2026-27 school budget vote and board election is today, Tuesday, May 19, from 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. at Central Valley Elementary School, 45 Route 32, Central Valley. 🗳

What a wonderful way to enjoy today's warm weather—take a moment to relax and appreciate these beautiful spring windows created by the MWHS art majors. 🌸🐝

@monroewoodburyhs
@monroewoodburyart

Happy School Transportation Appreciation Week! We are so grateful for everything you do to transport our Crusaders every day. From being the first face they see each morning to the last one to wave goodbye in the afternoon, your impact is felt. We also want to thank those working behind the scenes, managing routes and schedules to ensure every child is supported. Thank you! 🚌💜

On May 12, 2026, the M-W chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) proudly inducted 112 new members. Students will take part in upcoming volunteer initiatives, school projects and leadership opportunities.

These inductees have already demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, and we look forward to all they will continue to accomplish. Congratulations to each of the new NJHS members!💜🌟