Archive | Schools RSS feed for this section

Spry Middle School presents “Once Upon a Mattress”

5 Mar

A beloved fairy tale comes to life when Spry Middle School presents the delightful story Once Upon a Mattress Youth Edition in three shows this weekend.

The one-hour musical comedy is a lighthearted retelling of the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. But it offers some twists you might not expect.

The story unfolds with Queen Aggravain (Julia Alvaro) forbidding all marriages until her son, Prince Dauntless (Nolan Holland), finds a suitable bride. Despite numerous princesses vying for his hand, none can overcome the queen’s impossible tests. The arrival of Winnifred the Woebegone (Emily Barry), a “shy” swamp princess, shakes things up. Will she pass the queen’s “sensitivity test,” win the prince’s heart, and pave the way for Lady Larken (Emily Alvaro) and Sir Harry (Max Hoose/Hiro Tsuji) to wed? It’s a very funny take on the classic fairy tale.

The production is filled with lots of song and dance, and the Spry drama students — as always — do a tremendous job with their acting, singing and dancing. It’s a show the whole family will enjoy, and at just an hour, is perfect for even young children.

Here are some photos from the show:

Performances are scheduled for Friday, March 7 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $9 each and are available online here.

On a side note, I’ve discovered an added benefit of attending these Spry shows. As I watched Webster Schroeder High School’s recent production of Hadestown, I was delighted to see, in lead roles, a few faces that I recognized from last year’s Spry production of SpongeBob: the Musical. We get to be on the ground floor as these young actors are just beginning their theatrical careers, and watch their development as their acting skills grow.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 3/5/2025)

Tags: , , ,

Webster community mailbag

4 Mar

I’ll begin today’s mailbag with a few new tidbits, then add some reminders about events I’ve mentioned earlier.

Library to host Special Needs Parent Resource Fair

The Webster Public Library will host its annual Special Needs Parent Resource Fair on Saturday April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is especially for parents and caregivers who are looking for community resources to support their loved ones who have special needs.

In previous years, almost 60 organizations from all over the Rochester area have participated, and most will likely be returning this year. Click here to see last year’s participant list.

Autism Up will be set up in the Community Room with a sensory space, in case you need a breather and want to learn more about what they have to offer.

Registration is recommended if you’d like a reminder. Caregivers can come any time during the fair, and if you’re unable to attend, information about the attending organizations will be available by request.

The Webster Public Library is located at 980 Ridge Rd. at the rear of Webster Plaza.

Great new programs for 55+ at the Webster Recreation Center

I got my most recent 55+ newsletter from the Webster Rec the other day. It’s always got lots of great programs, but I especially like the Talks on Tuesday topics. Here’s this month’s lineup:

  • March 11: Medicare, by Sara Mason from Mason Wealth Management
    All the different pieces of Medicare can be confusing. This workshop will give you an understanding of what each piece means, when you can make changes and why you should review your plan annually.
  • March 18: The Big Bang, by NASA Ambassador Jim Porter
    Join NASA Ambassador Jim Porter to discover the rich heritage of NASA cosmic exploration and where the latest missions will be taking us into the future.
  • March 25: Maintaining Cognitive Health by psychologist Dr. Arianna Slotnick
    An engaging workshop filled with practical and enjoyable strategies to boost cognitive function and maintain brain health throughout your lifespan. You’ll leave with tangible tips and techniques you can implement immediately.

The Talks on Tuesdays are held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The programs are free but registration is required.

And here’s a brand new program at the Rec Center, called TAP TIME, held Fridays from March 21 through April 25 from 11:45 to 12:30 p.m. Whether standing or seated, Tap Time is a safe, fun way to stay active while enjoying upbeat tunes from Broadway and more. We will provide the slip-on taps used for class that fit right over any flat-bottomed shoe to create instant tap shoes. Cost is $30.

To find out about lots more programs and to register for any of these, click here to see the whole 55+ March newsletter.

Petitions Available for BOE Candidates

The Webster CSD Budget Vote and Election of Candidates is Tuesday, May 20 at Webster Schroeder High School. Anyone wishing to run for the board of education (BOE) may pick up a nominating packet from the district clerk’s office, 119 South Avenue, any weekday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Petitions must be returned to the district clerk’s office no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 21.

Questions about candidacy or eligibility may be referred to District Clerk Heather Murphy at (585) 216-0001 or heather_murphy@webstercsd.org during the office hours noted above.

There’s still time to enter WHEN headphone giveaway

FRIDAY, March 14 is the last day to enter the Beats headphone giveaway being sponsored by the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN).

It’s easy to enter; just visit @WHENdfcc on Instagram, and post a picture of you doing something happy and healthy, like going for a walk, playing a sport, etc. Comment and tag two friends, follow WHEN on Instagram and share the WHEN post to your story. See more about this great giveaway on Instagram or click here.

And don’t forget about the Thomas/Schroeder Charity Basketball Game on WEDNESDAY, March 12 at 6:30 p.m.  This is a super fun event pitting Webster Thomas and Schroeder staff members against each other in a basketball game which is more entertaining than skillful. Suggested donation of $5 at the door will benefit benefits WHEN.

Learn about insects at the Arboretum

You’ll want to check out this education program being hosted by the Webster Arboretum later this month.

Invasive Insects, Thursday March 20, 7 to 8 p.m.: Presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM. Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to our environment, and as scientific professionals, hobbyists, or passersby, we encounter them almost every day. But what makes a species invasive? How many are there? Learn more about them at this fascinating presentation.

WCCH Prom Party is April 5

The Webster Comfort Care Home is hosting an 80’s Prom and Dance Party on Saturday April 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Shadow Lake Golf Club, 1850 Five Mile Line Rd. Music will be provided by Hall Pass and DJ Lesh.

Tickets are $60 each or two for $100, and the first 20 guests get a VIP bag of goodies. There will also be a contest for King & Queen, Best Dressed, and Most Original.

Click here to purchase tickets.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow mse on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 3/4/2025)

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

New video series takes you inside the schools

26 Feb

Chances are, it’s been a long time since you’ve walked the halls of an elementary or secondary school. Unless you happen to have children or grandchildren who attend school here in Webster, you may be kind of out of touch with what the buildings look like and what goes on inside.

A new video series recently introduced by the Webster Central School District (WCSD) is hoping to change that. It’s called “A Day in the Life of …” and it’s designed to offer an inside look at what makes our Webster schools special.

The district launched the series a few weeks ago, and describes its first installment as “an all-access pass to Webster Thomas High School.” The almost 5-minute video features Thomas principal principal Glenn Widor, following him through his day as he welcomes students in the morning, checks in on classes and lunches, and interacts with staff and students. We learn a bit about the way he approaches his job as principal, and his thoughts about the preschool classes which are held in the high school building.

The new Day in the Life series is part of the school district’s ongoing One Webster Minute video series, which highlights special events and people in our Webster school community. Past One Webster Minute videos have included a look at the 2024 Spry Middle School Career Day, a guest artist who created a mural at Plank South Elementary, and an Unsung Heroes segment about our amazing bus drivers.

Click here to visit the WCSD YouTube page to see these and other videos, and stay tuned for more Day in the Life segments in the future featuring various roles in the district.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/26/2025)

Tags: , ,

Thomas vs. Schroeder charity basketball will benefit WHEN

24 Feb

A Thomas vs. Schroeder high school basketball game is always highly competitive and definitely worth watching. But the one happening on Wednesday March 12 should be … well, interesting, and dare I say, a little short on actual basketball talent.

It’s a Charity Basketball Game, scheduled for Wednesday night March 12 at Webster Thomas High School.

The family-friendly event will pit Thomas/OWL staff and faculty against Schroeder/GOAL staff and faculty in a friendly winner-take-all-bragging-rights game. Usually the game includes some super-fun halftime activities featuring competitions between Thomas/OWL students and Schroeder/GOAL students. Concessions will be available.

Suggestion donation for admission is just $5, and this year’s beneficiary is the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN), a community coalition which promotes healthy, substance-free behaviors and lifestyles in our Webster schools and greater community. Additional donations would also be greatly appreciated.

The game begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12 in the Webster Thomas High School gymnasium, 800 Five Mile Line Rd. Enter on the east side of the building, near the field house.

The schools’ PTSAs host this game every year. I haven’t been to one in a long time, but I do remember actually playing in one when I was working at Webster Thomas many years ago. What I remember most about it, actually (aside from how poorly I played) were the fun costumes and wigs that many of the teachers wore, and how much laughing there was. It was an enjoyable experience both on the court, and for everyone in the stands as well.

So make sure to mark your calendars for this fun night, and come out and support the Webster Health and Education Network in their effort to keep our kids safe and healthy.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/24/2025)

Tags: , , , ,

Webster community mailbag

22 Feb

Looking ahead to events and warmer weather next month — and this coming summer — in today’s mailbag!

Win a pair of Beats headphones

In an effort to reach out to a younger audience and impress upon them the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) has instituted a Beats headphone giveaway via Instagram.

It’s easy to enter; just visit @WHENdfcc on Instagram, and post a picture of you doing something happy and healthy, like going for a walk, playing a sport, etc. Comment and tag two friends, follow WHEN on Instagram and share the WHEN post to your story. See more about this great giveaway on Instgram or click here.

Wednesday March 3 is the last day to enter.

Looking forward to summer!

Enough with this snow. Here’s something to help you look past all that.

The Webster Business Improvement District (BID) has announced its summer lineup of Friday night gazebo concerts, beginning in July:

  • July 18: The Earthtones
  • July 25: The Sarah DeValliere Band
  • Aug. 1: It’s My Party
  • Aug. 8: The Red Hot & Blue Band
  • Aug. 22: Eight Days a Week

Plus, the Webster Jazz Festival returns Aug. 15 and 16.

The gazebo concerts begin at 7 p.m. at Veterans Park on North Ave. and admission is free. Bring the whole family, some folding chairs and a blanket, and a cooler if you’d like, then enjoy some beautiful music. Check out the BID website to stay up to date on details for these and all this summer’s village events.

News from the Arboretum

The Webster Arboretum has a beautiful new website which is very much worth a few minutes to check out. The new design is very easy to navigate, highlighting the trails, gardens and wildlife which abound in this beautiful natural area.

Scroll down a bit to read about this year’s slate of educational programs, a different one every month through November, ranging from hummingbirds to lilacs, bonsai trees to hydrangeas.

I’ll let you know more about each of these as they get closer, but here’s what’s happening in March:

  • Invasive Insects, Thursday March 20, 7 to 8 p.m.: Presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM. Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to our environment, and as scientific professionals, hobbyists, or passersby, we encounter them almost every day. But what makes a species invasive? How many are there? Learn more about them at this fascinating presentation.

The presentation will take place at the Curry Building at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. Prior registration is requested for all these programs. They’re all free and will be held rain or shine. Visit the Webster Arboretum website for more information and to register.

And ALSO, mark your calendars now for the Arboretum’s annual Spring Plant Sale, Saturday May 10 from 8 a.m. to noon.

Women’s Club March luncheon will feature Webster history

Sharon Pratt from the Webster Museum will be the guest speaker at the next Women’s Club of Webster luncheon, Thursday March 20 at the Nutcracker Family Restaurant, 2159 Empire Blvd., Webster. Sharon will speak about what life was like for women in Webster’s early days.

The event begins at 11:15 a.m. with social time, followed by lunch at noon and Sharon’s presentation. Enjoy a buffet featuring roast beef, roasted chicken, rice pilaf, pasta primavera, salad, hot mixed vegetables, hot and cold beverages and warm camaraderie.

Cost of the luncheon is $25. Send check made out to WCW by March 13 to Carolyn Rittenhouse, 405 County Line Road, Ontario, 14519. If you have any questions, or you think your check will be late, phone Carolyn at 585-265-1303. New members are always welcome.

WCSD prekindergarten lottery is open

Registration for Webster Central School District’s 2024-25 prekindergarten lottery is now available online. Registrations will be accepted through Friday, March 14 at 10 a.m. Children who are 4 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2025 but who are not eligible for kindergarten, are eligible for prekindergarten enrollment for the upcoming school year.

Webster CSD PreK is a play-based program that engages students in social and emotional skills with a heavy emphasis on communication. The district offers both full-day and half-day options for families. Locations are determined by the lottery and according to the child’s home catchment for kindergarten.

For more information and to complete registration, please visit Webster CSD’s prekindergarten web page at www.websterschools.org/prek.

Lots to do in March at the library

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening at the Webster Public Library in March:

  • Vintage Book Sale, Saturday March 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop more than 200 fiction and non-fiction books, published between the 19th and early 21st centuries. Prices begin at $8.
  • The free community exchange in March is GAMES. Bring in a game that you don’t use anymore, and pick up a new one!
  • The Donation Station in March will benefit the Webster Public Library’s very own Free Food Pantry, located on the sidewalk right by the front door. Bring in non-perishable food items to help keep the pantry stocked.
  • The Seed Library will be open for the season on Monday March 3

For adults:

  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Saturday March 1, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Celebrate the Emerald Isle with music from the band Merriwick, Irish tea and beautiful pictures of Ireland! Registration is required.
  • Growing Orchids in Rochester, Saturday March 8, 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Learn about orchids and how to grow them in Rochester in anticipation of the 2025 Genesee Region Orchid Show. Registration is required.

For teens and tweens:

  • Make It Monday: Glass Bead Suncatchers, Monday March 10, 6 to 7 p.m. Grades 4 and up are welcome. Registration is requested.
  • Teen Library Club, Wednesday March 26, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Hang out with your friends and get more involved in the library and the community. For grades 6 to 12. Registration is requested.

For kids and families:

  • Flute Storytime, Saturday March 15, 2 to 2:30 p.m. Join flutist Jaclyn Breeze for a 30-minute program featuring two picture books and flute pieces. No registration required.
  • Spring Equinox Drop-In Crafts in the storytime room. Friday March 21 and Saturday March 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All ages are welcome and registration is not required.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/22/2025)

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Register now for Community Arts Day

18 Feb

I know that spring is just around the corner when I start receiving emails from the organizers of Community Arts Day (CAD). And since this year it seems like spring will NEVER arrive, it’s rather appropriate that CAD has been scheduled later than usual.

This annual event, held at Webster Schroeder High School, is a family-friendly festival which showcases the musical and artistic talents of Webster School District K-12 students, and invites dozens of community groups to display their great contributions to our community.

Normally, Community Arts Day is held in mid-April, but this year (thanks to some scheduling issues) it’s been moved back to Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. So it’s a little later this year than usual, but the time is NOW to start planning for it.

Registrations are now being taken for community groups, vendors and performers who’d like to participate in this year’s Community Arts Day. There are also several opportunities to become event sponsors or make an in-kind donation. Click here to find out more and to register your group.

Organizers are also looking for interested community members to join the planning committee and help make this event a success. Email CAD@websterptsa.org to find out more about volunteer opportunities,

Community Arts Day is a Webster PTSA sponsored event, created in 1976 as a joint venture with each of Webster’s schools to raise money to support cultural arts activities in our 11 buildings. CAD showcases our children’s artistic, vocal, musical, and theatrical talents. It also involves the whole community in a day to celebrate cultural arts, bringing in 2000+ people to enjoy activities from art displays, musical performances, craft demonstrations, community exhibits, craft vendors, sweet treats, a carnival space, and more. So make sure to put Saturday, May 10 on your calendar now for this year’s Community Arts Day.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/18/2025)

Tags: , , ,

Klem North students reading for a cause

5 Feb

The Klem Rd. North Elementary School PTSA has come up with a clever way to encourage kids to read, while benefiting a great community organization at the same time.

It’s an initiative called “Kids Read for Kids,” a partnership between Klem North and the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester. The idea is simple: Throughout the month of February, Klem North students do as much reading as they can, and as they do, they collect pledges from friends, family members (or community members) tied to how much they read. You can pledge, for example, 50 cents for every minute they read, or a dollar for every day, or just make a one-time donation. At the end of February, the PTSA will split the donations 50/50 with the Ronald McDonald House.

The kids can read anything they want, and even count the time when parents or grandparents read TO them. The idea is to get young people excited about reading.

What’s especially neat about the Kids Read for Kids program is that it’s unique. Annie Murphy, Ronald McDonald House’s Senior Director of Philanthropic Relationships, explains,

Kids Read for Kids is the first initiative of its kind within the Ronald McDonald House network. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, NY (RMHCR) is one of 387 chapters worldwide, with nine in New York State. While some chapters, like Albany, have hosted read-a-thons where all proceeds benefit RMHC, our approach is unique.

Our version is a true partnership, with all funds raised evenly split between RMHCR and the school. This literacy-based community service initiative not only fosters a love for reading but also empowers students to make a meaningful impact—supporting both the Klem North PTSA and families with sick or injured children at RMHCR.

Klem North parents, grandparents and guardians are, of course, encouraged to participate and support their children. But community members not directly involved with the school can also help out. You can click here for more information, make a one-time pledge or support a Klem North student. The school has set an ambitious goal of $30,000, so they need a LOT of donations! You can also view a video about the program by clicking here.

About the Ronald McDonald House of Rochester

Since 1990, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, NY (RMHCR) has been a home away from home for families with critically ill or injured children. Our mission is to strengthen families and promote healing by providing essential care and support—free of charge—during their toughest times.

We began with our 24-room Westmoreland House and expanded in 2005 to include our House Within the Hospital at Golisano Children’s Hospital, which offers 7 rooms for families with the most critical needs. Over the years, we’ve added Family Rooms, Hospitality Carts, and the world’s first Mental Health & Wellness Family Room to support families in every way possible.

In 2024 alone, we served 9,678 families, saving them over $2.5 million in lodging, meals, and other support. From high-risk pregnancies to post-hospital recovery, RMHCR provides comfort and care for the whole family because we know that a child’s illness affects everyone.

With nearly 50 years of global impact and 35 years of local service here in Rochester, we’re committed to helping families stay close to each other—and close to the care their child needs.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/5/2025)

Tags: , , ,

Webster Schroeder presents Hadestown this weekend

4 Feb

I’ve been attending musicals at Webster Schroeder High School for more than 20 years, ever since my kids went to school there. They’re always outstanding, with standing-ovation-quality acting and singing. And every year’s performance, it seems, is better than the last.

But I think they’re going to be hard-pressed to top this year’s production of Hadestown.

Webster Schroeder is bringing the hit Broadway musical Hadestown to the stage for four shows this Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I had the pleasure of attending one of the dress rehearsals a few days ago, and when I walked into the auditorium, I knew very little about the musical, aside from the fact that it was an eight-time Tony Award winner. I also knew (from my music theater nerd daughter) that it’s one of the hottest shows on Broadway. So when I heard that Schroeder had nabbed the rights to stage it (the first school in our area), I was very excited to see it.

Hadestown re-imagines the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. It’s a love story, set against the backdrop of a dark, stylized, industrial underworld ruled by Hades and Persephone. Eurydice, driven by poverty and cold, seeks refuge in this harsh realm, while her musician lover, Orpheus, embarks on a long and perilous journey to bring her back.

I know, I know … that doesn’t sound like your typical high school musical. For sure it’s not as lighthearted as Mary Poppins or Seussical. But despite its darker themes, audience members will be equally captivated by the acting, choreography, music and staging. Because this is a Webster Schroeder production.

The quality of this year’s show is especially impressive given that Hadestown is a very complicated and very tech-heavy musical. Even though it was released as a “teen edition,” not much was removed from the current production on Broadway. A few adaptations had to be made to accommodate the limitations of a high-school production, but those adaptations are creative and intriguing.

Director Carrie Zugelder says Hadestown has been the most challenging production she’s ever done in her 24 years of producing musicals, for several reasons. She writes,

We have over 300 different lighting cues that happen throughout the show. We are running sound which includes body mics, sound effects and on-stage band amplification on a 32-channel sound board and every channel is used. This means that our sound designer and his assistant are controlling 32 different sound elements at any given time in the show. We are running three different fog machines placed strategically on and below the stage extension. The special placement of these machines requires student members of stage crew to be enclosed under the stage, in the dark, to make sure the machines turn on and operate at the right moments. 

The dedication shown by those students under the stage is matched ten-fold by the skill and dedication to the craft shown by the students singing and dancing on the stage.

Here’s a good example: The character Orpheus is a musician, who in this production plays a guitar. Rowan Murphy, who plays Orpheus, did not know how to play the guitar before he won the role. But he decided he wanted to learn all the guitar parts his character played, rather than rely on the on-stage pit band, so he started taking lessons back in November.

But there’s more!

The three Fates also have instruments assigned to them: a violin, a tambourine and an accordion. Most high school productions would have the instruments on the characters but have professionals play the parts while the characters mimic the playing…..not Webster Schroeder!  Both Fate #1 and Fate #3 self-taught their violin and accordion parts. Their playing on stage is legit.

Those examples are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the hard work these young actors have been putting in to bring Hadestown to the stage. (And they are young. For many of them, this is their first Schroeder production.) From the powerful opening song, to the lilting love ballads, to the jarring underworld chants, the music is challenging, but the harmonies are breathtaking. The choreography and staging are complicated but delivered without a hitch.

Basically, I suggest you try to put aside your preconceptions that a musical based on a Greek myth will be boring, and put yourself in that auditorium for an evening you will not forget.

Hadestown: Teen Edition will make its community premiere at Webster Schroeder High School with four performances from February 6-8. Evening shows will begin at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on February 8, at the Webster Schroeder High School Auditorium (875 Ridge Road). Tickets are $14 and can be purchased online through Hometown Ticketing. 

Here are some more photos:

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/4/2025)

Tags: , , ,

WHEN brings Listening Post back to the middle schools

2 Feb

A fun program spearheaded by the Webster Health and Education Network (WHEN) is helping build connections between middle school students and Webster community members.

The program is called the Listening Post, and it’s designed to foster student engagement through interactive and enjoyable activities like games and crafts. Last Thursday and Friday, WHEN brought the program to Spry and Willink middle schools, setting up tables in the cafeteria during the lunch blocks, filled with card games (UNO, Go Fish, Old Main and War) Valentine’s cards, stickers and markers. After finishing their lunch, students who were interested could come over and play a game or make a Valentine’s card for the residents of Maplewood Nursing Home.

WHEN used to hold these Listening Posts regularly before the pandemic, but this is the first time they’ve been offered since then. Linda Dioguardi, WHEN’s programming chair, remembered that the response back then was overwhelming. She was a little unsure how the students would react this time around and was hoping that there would be at least some interest.

Turns out she had nothing to worry about.

During the six lunch periods at Spry on Thursday, more than 125 students came over to the tables to play cards or make Valentines. The response at Willink the next day was equally enthusiastic.

WHEN volunteers and retired WCSD teachers joined the students at the tables to play some surprisingly competitive games of UNO or Old Maid, or to make some charming Valentine’s cards. And while they were participating in all the fun and games, the students didn’t even realize they were benefiting from positive interactions with adults who were truly interested in who they were and what they had to say.

The ultimate goal is to strengthen relationships and enhance the sense of community within — and outside — the school.

WHEN hopes to host a Listening Post at least once a month at each of the middle schools through the end of the year. This time only retired WCSD teachers and WHEN members were been invited, but as the program ramps up again, any retiree from the Webster community is invited — and encouraged — to participate. For more information, visit the Webster Health and Education Network website or email info@WHENdfcc.org.

The photo above is of some of the Valentine’s card makers at Willink. Here are a few others from the two Listening Posts:

  • Card games and card makers at Spry
  • Principal Callahan challenges some Spry students to a game of UNO
  • The WHEN/retiree Listening Post team at Willink
  • It was all smiles during the card games at Willink

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 2/2/2025)

Tags: , , , , ,

WCSD to offer preK open houses

30 Jan

The Webster Central School District (WCSD) will be hosting a district-wide open house on Tuesday, Feb. 11 for parents looking to enroll their young children in the district’s pre-kindergarten program in September.
 
Webster CSD PreK is a New York State-funded program specifically designed for 4 year-olds not eligible for kindergarten. Each year the school district invites families of eligible children who reside in the district to apply. The district offers full-day (five hours) and half-day (2.5 hours) options. The open house offers families living within the school district an opportunity to see some of the sites and learn more about the program before registering for the lottery. The visit is intended to answer questions and help families rank their choices prior to the registration window of February 14 to March 14.

The open house will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m. at seven of the district’s 14 pre-K locations:

* Webster Schroeder High School, 875 Ridge Road, Webster (enter door 4)
* Webster Thomas High School, 800 Five Mile Line, Webster (enter in the back)
* Bay View YMCA, 1209 Bay Road, Webster
* Busy Blossoms, 60 Barrett Drive, Webster
* Expressive Beginnings, 12 May Street, Webster
* Kids First, 1676 Empire Blvd., Webster
* LP at STARS Preschool, 1456 Ridge Road, Webster
 
Webster’s play-based learning program focuses on communication, vocabulary development, and problem-solving. Time is dedicated to gross motor and sensory development, art and music exploration, and consistent literacy and math experiences. Plus, there’s weekly speech language pathologist support in each classroom.
 
Families who are unable to attend the open house and would like to learn more about the Webster CSD PreK program are encouraged to visit the WCSD website at or call (585) 216-0122.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 1/22/2025)

Tags: , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →