Community Update: 9/27/24

Dear RCSD Community,

This time last year, we were drying out from tropical storm Ophelia. While we aren’t expecting to see any effects from Hurricane Helene beyond some weekend showers, I am keeping an eye on the weather models. Those of you who know me are aware that this is not a chore. I truly enjoy “geeking out” with the weather prognosticators. In fact, I secured an invitation to speak with RMS students who are currently studying weather in science - I can’t wait! While it appears we will be just fine in Rye, I am sending good wishes to all in Helene’s path.

High Flying Alumni

At Tuesday night’s Board of Education meeting, the Board approved an agreement with Jeff Provenzano for a skydiving demonstration on October 26. In other words, as was the case in 2022, we will be starting the Rye Harrison Football Game with a skydiver landing on the field! Jeff is a 1994 graduate of Rye High School and a professional skydiver. This year holds special meaning for Jeff as it is his class’s 30th reunion.

Back to School Nights

Our five back to school nights are in the books! Parents seemed to be enjoying themselves, catching up with friends and making new ones while getting an eyeful of all the facilities improvements that have been completed, particularly at Rye High School. I enjoyed speaking with and providing directions to the many lost parents/guardians as they were searching for classrooms.

Chemistry Club Event at RFRR Tomorrow

The Rye High School Chemistry Club is hosting a Chemistry Day Science Fair tomorrow from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on the Village Green in front of the Rye Free Reading Room (they will move indoors in case of inclement weather). There will be fun hands-on activities including making slime, demonstrations of (small) explosions, chemical reactions, making snow, and more! All ages welcome. To see the flyer, click here.

National Principals Month

Where did September go? October is National Principals Month. Please join me in thanking our school principals for all they do for our students, parents, teachers, and staff every day. They keep our schools running smoothly and efficiently and provide guidance and aid to all. Thank you!

Rye High School Andrew Hara
Rye Middle School Joseph (Joe) DiGiovanni
Midland School James (Jim) Boylan
Milton School Annemarie (Annie) Piekarski
Osborn School Angela Garcia

National Custodial Workers Day

This coming Wednesday, October 2, is National Custodial Workers Day. These folks work around the clock to keep our schools in tip-top shape, not to mention the herculean efforts they put in during emergencies (the semi-regular flooding, snow storms) and to set up and break down after big events (The Game, moving ups, and graduation). Please take a moment to thank one of our valued custodians if you see them this week. We couldn’t do it without them!

Board of Education News

At Tuesday night’s Board of Education meeting, the Board spent some time talking about The Rye Commitment and the Board’s goals for the 2024-2025 school year. The District then provided a tax collection update that included information about the implications of the Playland tax dispute between the City and the County. To watch, click here.

Sincerely,
Eric Byrne, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools