Tag Archives: Webster Central Schools

Spry Middle School vocal groups earn top NYSSMA honors

4 Apr

Congratulations to two Spry Middle School vocal groups who achieved top honors at the recent NYSSMA Major Organization Evaluation Festival.

Spry Middle School’s two vocal powerhouses, SoundWave 6 and SoundWave 7/8, both received a Gold Rating at the festival, held in Honeoye on Tuesday April 1. The rating is awarded to ensembles that demonstrate an outstanding level of technical and artistic skill in their performance, an incredible accomplishment that reflects the high standards and hard work of these singing Warriors.

SoundWave 6 is directed by Katie Goodman, who also co-directs SoundWave 7/8 with Stephen Costanza. 

“These students go above and beyond, giving up their lunch study periods to participate in SoundWave, showing true dedication to their craft and their ensemble,” Goodman said. “We are so proud of their commitment, teamwork, and musical excellence.”

This is the first time in 15 years that Spry Middle School has been awarded Gold at this prestigious event. Congratulations to all these talented students,and their directors, for making Webster proud.

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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 4/4/2025)

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Webster Thomas to present Legally Blonde: The Musical

25 Mar

On Monday afternoon, I had the delightful opportunity to get a sneak peak at Webster Thomas High School’s upcoming production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, which takes the stage for four shows this weekend, March 27 to 29.

I knew very little about this show (or the movie it was based on) when I walked into the auditorium, despite its 18-month award-winning run at the Palace Theater from 2007-2008, and its subsequent world tours. I wasn’t even certain I was going to like it.

But as I headed home all I could think was, “What a FUN show!”

Legally Blonde tells the story of sorority girl Elle Woods, whose seemingly perfect life is upended when her boyfriend leaves her for Harvard Law School. Her solution? Get accepted into the school herself and win him back.

Blonde, bubbly and always-clad-in-pink Elle doesn’t quite fit the Harvard stereotype, however, and she faces challenges from peers, professors and her ex-boyfriend. But with the support of her new friends, she discovers her true potential and sets out to overcome those challenges.

Legally Blonde is a very entertaining show filled with dynamic dancing and very catchy songs. The production features a talented cast and crew of more than 80 Webster Thomas students, including Isabella Spencer as Elle; Colin Ritchie as Warner, the boyfriend; and Dominick Mangano, Evie Fellows and Matteo Serventi as Elle’s friends. There are some mature themes and some language, so parental guidance is suggested.

It was silly to think for even a moment that I wasn’t going to like a Webster Thomas production. As always, as I watched the young actors on stage, I was blown away by the voices and acting skills, and can imagine many of them heading off to musical theater schools around the country.

As I said, I really didn’t know much about the show when I walked into the theater. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay for the first half of the dress rehearsal, so I didn’t even get to see it all. But I’ve since read about how it ends (which I won’t spoil for you if you don’t know the story), and I’m definitely looking forward to being in the audience to enjoy the happy ending.

Webster Thomas High School’s production of Legally Blonde: The Musical will run from Thursday March 27 to Saturday March 29, with nightly performances at 7 p.m. and a 1 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Tickets are $14 each and will be available online here. Webster Thomas High School is located at 800 Five Mile Line Rd.

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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 3/25/2025)

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Sparx Robotics finished strong at recent competition

21 Mar

Last weekend, Webster’s very own Sparx Robotics team participated in a regional event at RIT, competing against 53 other teams who traveled from all over New York State, from Buffalo to the Bronx, but also Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. While they didn’t bring home any awards, they finished strong and made Webster proud.

The following report and photos from the weekend were submitted by Sparx parent mentor Tricia Isham:

The Sparx Robotics Team 1126, made up of talented students from Webster Schroeder and Webster Thomas High Schools, recently took part in the exciting Finger Lakes Regional FIRST Robotics competition. Held from March 13 to 15, 2025, at Rochester Institute of Technology, this event challenged teams to dive into the ocean’s ecosystem with this year’s theme, “Reefscape.”

Months of Hard Work and Teamwork

Since fall, these dedicated teens have been meeting twice a week in the evenings, increasing to a minimum of three times a week after the new year, putting in an impressive average of 16 plus hours weekly (and often many more). Their dedication paid off with the design and creation of their robot, lovingly named Luisa in memory of a favorite loving and encouraging mentor.

The Reefscape Challenge

The competition, announced on January 4, 2025, gave Team 1126 just nine weeks to build and program their robot. Luisa was designed to perform specific tasks both autonomously and under human control, simulating the harvesting of algae and planting of coral in an oceanic environment.

Team Spirit and Future Competitions

Sparx met every match with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, embodying the spirit of FIRST Robotics. Their journey keeps going – the team is set to compete in the New York Tech Valley Regional in Albany from March 26 to 29, 2025. You’ll be able to watch that competition live here.

More Than Just Robotics

Sparx Robotics Team 1126 has shown remarkable teamwork and perseverance. Their performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young engineers.

FIRST Robotics isn’t just about building robots; it’s about fostering innovation, teamwork, and leadership skills. It’s an incredible way for students to learn STEM concepts while developing confidence and creativity.

Get Involved

Our current sponsors are: One Webster School District, Xerox, Bosch, Boulter, MKS, Wegman’s, Crossfield, Lavoro Group, Vital Signs, OptiPro and the Watson and Ficci Families.

Want to support these future innovators, too? Consider mentoring the team or making a donation. To contact the lead mentors for mentoring opportunities and to donate, visit the team’s website.

Learn more about FIRST Robotics and follow the exciting world of competitive robotics, and this year’s REEFSCAPE theme here.

The Sparx Robotics Team 1126 is a shining example of what our local youth can achieve with passion and teamwork. Their journey from design to competition is a testament to the power of STEM education and the importance of programs like FIRST Robotics in shaping our future.

Tricia also reported that while the team didn’t do as well as they had hoped, their final ranking was nothing to sneeze at.

“Team 1126 was ranked 24 out of 54 teams at the competition with a record of 5-3-1,” she wrote, “and goes into the Tech Valley competition at an overall rank of 906 out of over 1900 teams participating in total this competition year.” Not too shabby.

Here are a few more photos from the competition:

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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 3/21/2025)

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Webster community mailbag

20 Mar

Let’s start today’s mailbag with a few items from the Webster Public Library.

A reminder that the library’s Vintage Book Sale takes place on Saturday March 22 from 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.

Also, all this month the library is hosting their first-ever Irish American Heritage Month Book Sale. It lasts only until everything is sold, so get there soon to choose from a selection of books about Irish history, travel, culture and folklore, plus coffee-table books, Ireland-themed puzzles and Irish music CDs.

Both book sales benefit the Friends of the Webster Public Library.

And remember that this month’s free community exchange is GAMES. Bring in a game that you don’t use anymore, and pick up a new one! Plus, the Donation Station benefits the library’s Free Food Pantry, and the Seed Library is now open.

Got stuff to shred?

The Finger Lakes Federal Credit Union will sponsor a free community shredding day on Saturday May 3 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Webster branch, 815 Ridge Rd. It’s open to small businesses and individuals in the Webster area. Please bring the papers in disposable (preferably recyclable) boxes or bags.

Wine Walks return

The Village of Webster has scheduled the next Wine Walk for Saturday May 10.

These are very popular events where you stroll the village, popping into businesses to sample wines and snacks from our local merchants.

Participants must be 21 and an ID is required. More information to come, but you cal also stay up to date on the latest at the Webster BID website.

Are you a guy who loves to sing?

The Chorus of the Genesee is hosting a New Members Night on Tuesday March 25 at 7 p.m., at the Harmony House, 58 East Main St. in the Village of Webster.

Come meet the guys and join them for an evening of singing a cappella music. You don’t even have to be able to read music. If you can sing a tune, they’ll show the rest. Click here to R.S.V.P., and if you have any questions, you can call 585-259-3590 or email RochesterCOG@gmail.com.

Some additional reminders …

All of the following announcements were previously included in this community mailbag, so click on that link if you’d like any more information about …

  • 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.
  • Anyone wishing to run for the Webster Central School District Board of Education 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.
  • The Webster Arboretum will present the program Invasive Insects on Thursday March 20, from 7 to 8 p.m., presented by Camille Caceci, the Invasive Species Project Coordinator with Finger Lakes PRISM.
  • 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.

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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 3/20/2025)

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Annual Spry charity basketball game will benefit Webster Hope

12 Mar

The Spry Middle School Student Council is putting the fun into fundraising at its annual Charity Basketball Game on Thursday, March 20 from 6 to 8 p.m.

The evening will feature a friendly hoops competition between student houses, highlighted by a halftime show where Spry staff will challenge each other in Minute to Win It games. The staff and student competitions will all count towards points awarded to the houses, and after the game, the highly coveted Spirit Stick will be awarded to the house which has accumulated the most points during Spirit Week.

Suggested donation at the door is $5. Concessions will also be available for a nominal cost. 

The game is the capstone event for Spry’s Spirit Week, and all of the proceeds from the game — and various other fundraising activities held during the week — will benefit Webster Hope. The agency provides residents in need in the 14580 zip code with food, clothing, household goods, furniture and occasional financial assistance.

Once again, the Spry Middle School Charity Basketball Game will be held Thursday, March 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the school gym, 119 South Avenue.

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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 3/12/2025)

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Track and field open house welcomes children and adults with disabilities

7 Mar

Here’s a quick announcement about a great new event taking place TODAY, Saturday, from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Webster Thomas High School Field House. It’s the inaugural Challenger Miracle Field Track and Field Open House for Rochester area children and adults with disabilities.

Designed for regional athletes ages 8 and older with developmental, physical, or intellectual disabilities, the two-hour open house will allow participants to try out four modified events: 4×100 relay, 55-meter dash, shot put and long jump.

The event is being organized by Amelia Thompson, a sophomore and Webster Thomas track & field thrower. Amelia is leading the initiative as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, driven by her passion for making track and field accessible to athletes of all abilities. She believes in the sport’s power to bring people together and has recruited a team of Webster Thomas students to volunteer and support the participants. 

The Challenger Track and Field Open House will be held Saturday March 8 from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Webster Thomas High School Field House, 800 Five Mile Line Rd. Participation is free but registration is requested.  

For questions, please contact Linda Burke at lindab@rochestermiraclefield.org or Amelia Thompson  ameliajethompson09@gmail.com.

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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 3/7/2025)

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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)

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