New Hyde Park-Garden City Union Free School District - #proud2bnhpgcp

Good afternoon, There will be a meeting of the New Hyde Park-Garden City Park UFSD Board of Education this evening, 2/10/25. All welcome! Location: Hillside Grade School 150 Maple Drive West New Hyde Park, NY 11040 Schedule: 7:00 pm Executive Session 7:45 pm Budget Input Session 8:00 pm Regular Meeting We are experiencing difficulty with our livestreaming capabilities, and at this time we are not able to livestream tonight's meeting.  We will update you if the status changes. Thank you, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families and Staff, Schools will be open on time today. Please travel safely, and we look forward to seeing everyone as scheduled. -Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, We are closely monitoring the weather conditions and will make a final decision regarding a possible two-hour delay in the morning. If a delay is necessary, you will receive a phone call by 6:00 AM. If you do not receive a call or message, schools will be open on time. You can check the website and portal for updates. Please stay tuned for further updates, and as always, the safety of our students, families, and staff remains our top priority. Thank you for your patience and understanding. -Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, This is a reminder that schools are closed tomorrow, Wednesday, January 29, 2025. See you Thursday! Happy Lunar New Year to all those who celebrate! -Dr. Morrison

Hello #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, This is a friendly reminder that because polling does not take place in our schools (thanks to our Board of Education!), NHPGCP schools are OPEN on Election Day tomorrow, November 5. Remember to vote! Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear NHP-GCP Families, This afternoon, district administration received notice from our food service provider, Whitsons Culinary Group, that one of their packaged meals is being recalled for possible contamination of listeria. The specific meal in question is the "Fajita Chicken Bowl, Rice, Bean, & Tomato Salad”, served on September 19, 2024, in all four schools. At this time, no other meals have been recalled. This recall is part of a larger action initiated by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service on October 9, 2024, which outlined concerns of listeria contamination in certain food products distributed by BrucePac. For more information on the BrucePac recall, click HERE: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/brucepac-recalls-ready-eat-meat-and-poultry-products-due-possible-listeria. According to the recall notice, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. These meals have not been served in our schools for approximately two weeks, and we immediately requested that Whitsons remove any remaining product from our freezers and provide the district with new meals.  More information about listeria can be found HERE https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/about/index.html . If your child is experiencing any symptoms of listeria, please contact their healthcare provider. Please be assured that the district prioritizes the health and safety of our students and staff, including stringent food safety measures. We will work with our food service provider to ensure that all proper protocols are strictly followed. Thank you for your attention to this important message. Respectfully, Jennifer Morrison-Raptis, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools

Hello #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, Are you interested in becoming a parent or community member of the Dignity & Belonging (formerly known as Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Team? This group of parents, community members, teachers, staff, and administrators meet approximately three to four times per school year virtually at 8 a.m. for about a half hour. We discuss our district's inclusivity practices, culture, current events, professional learning, take equity walks and report back, assist with goals for the district, and the future of our schools.  Please complete and submit the form by October 16, 2024, if you would like to join. Here is the link: https://forms.gle/VPzqmoNJiN2mT1Pv9 If you were a member last year, and wish to remain a member this year, please also complete this form to remain on the committee. Have a great three-day weekend! Thank you! Hyunah Park and Dr. Morrison-Raptis, co-chairs #proud2Bnhpgcp

August 27, 2024 Dear Students and Families, Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year! As the summer draws to a close, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome back to all our #proud2Bnhpgcp students and families for the new academic year. I hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer break and are as excited as we are to begin the school year on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Our dedicated team of educators and staff have been hard at work preparing for an outstanding year of learning and growth. We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We value a strong partnership between home and school and encourage you to stay engaged and involved in your child's education. Attend school events, participate in parent-teacher conferences, and join the PTA. Your involvement and collaboration is welcomed and vital to the success of our students. We promise to work together to create a positive, inclusive, and respectful community where every student feels a sense of belonging and empowered to succeed. We look forward to welcoming you back on September 3rd and to an amazing year ahead! Warmest regards, Jennifer Morrison-Raptis, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

August 30, 2024 Dear GCP, HGS, and Road Families, We are pleased to inform you that beginning on the first day of school, September 3, 2024, free lunch and breakfast will be offered daily for all students attending Garden City Park School, Hillside Grade School, and New Hyde Park Road School for the 2024-25 school year. This program is made possible for three of four District schools through funding provided by New York State and is based upon the number of students eligible for free lunch the previous school year. Please note that if the state reduces or eliminates this funding, the district will promptly notify parents so that you can decide whether to begin paying for meals or to send your child with a home-prepared meal .While our schools’ food service helpers are District employees trained to provide healthy meals to our students, please be aware that the District cannot guarantee that meals will be allergen-free or free from cross-contamination. Therefore, you may wish to provide your child with lunch from home if this is a concern. Specific details regarding the program at your school will be provided from your principal. We look forward to a great school year and to continuing our commitment to the health and well-being of all our students. Sincerely, Jennifer Morrison-Raptis, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools#proud2Bnhpgcp

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, As we come to the close of another successful school year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and partnership. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated achievements, and fostered a community where our students thrive. This year, our students have excelled. Their growth and accomplishments are a testament to the hard work of our students, the commitment of our educators, and the support from our families. I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved together. We are committed to making the 2024-2025 school year even more successful and fulfilling for our entire school community. I encourage you to take time this summer to relax, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends. If you have any questions or need assistance during the summer months, please do not hesitate to reach out to our district office. Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership. I wish you all a wonderful summer break, and I look forward to seeing you on September 3 for the first day of school. Warm regards, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, Faculty, and Staff, As we approach the upcoming Spring break, I wanted to send a quick reminder that our schools will be closed from April 22nd to April 30th. NHPGCP schools will reopen on May 1st. During this time, I encourage you to take this opportunity to spend quality time with your families and enjoy the much-deserved break. Whether you're planning a getaway or staying local, I hope you have a rejuvenating and safe holiday. Additionally, for those who celebrate, warm wishes for a Happy Passover! As always, thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child's education. Warm regards, Dr. Morrison-Raptis Superintendent of Schools

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, This is a reminder that schools are closed for students tomorrow, April 10, for Superintendent's Conference Day. For those who celebrate, I wish you a happy and peaceful Eid. -Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inform you about an earthquake incident that was felt earlier today in our area. Rest assured, all students and staff in our schools are safe, and there have been no reports of injuries or damage within our school buildings. Our teachers and staff are trained to handle unexpected situations like this with calmness and efficiency. They will be addressing the earthquake incident appropriately and reassuringly with our students to ensure they feel safe and secure in their learning environment. As a precautionary measure, we have decided to conduct recess indoors today. This decision is in line with our commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students. Indoor recess activities will be organized to ensure our students still have an enjoyable break while remaining safe indoors. Please take this opportunity to discuss the earthquake incident with your child and reassure them that their safety is our top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Sincerely, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, Learners, Teachers, and Staff, Please be reminded that schools will be closed from March 28th to April 1st. We will reopen our doors on April 2nd. During this break, let's all remember to stay safe, practice kindness, and spread joy wherever we go. Whether you celebrate Ramadan, Easter or simply enjoy the holiday season, may it be filled with peace. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our school community. Together, we continue to inspire, learn, and grow each day. Sincerely, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Good afternoon, #proud2Bnhpgcp! Due to the predicted inclement weather, all NHPGCP Schools will be closed tomorrow Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Stay safe! Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Reminder: we will conduct our Emergency Evacuation Drill on Wednesday, 11/22, with dismissal at 2:45 PM for all students and staff. Please make arrangements for your child(ren) to be picked up as no one will be allowed to return to the buildings. Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

This is a reminder that schools are closed tomorrow, Friday, November 10, in honor of Veterans' Day. Remember to thank a veteran! Happy Diwali to our families who celebrate! -Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families and Faculty, Yesterday, I sent a message regarding the events in the Middle East. I reiterate that we are here to support you and your family through these challenging times. We have become aware of a disturbing and widely circulated post that calls for violent acts against Jewish people to take place tomorrow, October 13. The district has been in close contact with the Nassau County Police Department, who asked us to share the following letter with our community: https://content.getrave.com/content/5954877/932cba2e-3f72-4a25-8673-e4008658551e/0d58a225-787b-4b6b-aab1-482872254e57/PC_Letter_to_Community_Partners_10-12-23.pdf The Police Department has informed me that they are not aware of any planned activities or direct threats to any area of Nassau County. Out of an abundance of caution, they are increasing their presence at schools tomorrow and we have enhancements in place with regard to our own security staffing/visibility. Thank you again for being a member of our community. Please contact your school if you need any assistance. Sincerely, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families: In accordance with New York State's Sex Offender Registration Act, local law enforcement agencies will notify school administrators of sex offenders living or working in the District. We have received notification from the Nassau County Police Department about a Level 1 (low risk of repeat offense) Sex Offender residing zip code 11040. Please note that for Level 1 sex offenders we are only provided with a zip code and an exact street address is not provided. The information provided to the District by the Nassau County Police Department is available in the principal's office of each school building. Upon written request to your principal, this information may be reviewed during school hours.  You may visit the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Website, www.criminaljustice.ny.gov for information about the New York Sex Offender Registration Act or to obtain information about Level 2 (moderate risk of repeat offense) or Level 3 (high risk of repeat offense and a threat to public safety) sex offenders. In addition, if you have not already registered to receive current or future sex offender notifications, you may do so by contacting the Parents for Megan's Law Helpline at 631-689-2672 or go to their website at www.parentsformeganslaw.org and click the "Sex Offender Email Alert Program" link at the bottom of the home page. Please be aware that it is illegal to use this information to commit a crime against any person listed as a sex offender, or to engage in illegal discrimination or harassment against this individual.   We are dedicated to the safety of our children. Please continue to speak with your children about safety and vigilance outside the home. Sincerely, Dr. Morrison-Raptis

Dear #proud2Bnhpgcp Families, Faculty, and Staff, We hope this message finds you well during these challenging times. We understand that recent events in the Middle East may have had a profound impact on members of our community, especially our students and their families. We assure you that we are here to support you through these difficult moments. At NHPGCP, we recognize the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of our students. We understand that these events can evoke a range of emotions, such as anxiety, fear, confusion, and sadness. It is essential to provide a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and receive the support they may need. Our counseling staff is prepared to support our students, family members, or colleagues who have been directly impacted by the events or are having difficulty processing the situation. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher, a member of the counseling staff, or a building administrator should there be specific questions or concerns. You can also reach us at family@nhp-gcp.org . As parents, you may need some assistance in navigating the difficult conversations that may arise from your elementary age child(ren) seeing images or hearing conversation about these recent events. If you feel you need guidance in steering some of this dialogue, here is a resource you can reference: https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/tip-sheet/tips_for_parents_on_media_coverage_shooting.pdf Thank you for being a valued member of our community, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance. Sincerely, Dr. Morrison-Raptis