WVCSD EdTlk & Photo of the Week: June 3, 2026

As another successful school year draws to a close, it is a fitting time to reflect on the many accomplishments of our students and the meaningful ways we celebrate their growth. Across the Warwick Valley Central School District, students are showcasing their talents, sharing their learning, reaching important milestones, and demonstrating the perseverance, curiosity, and resilience that define our school community. Our year-end ceremonies, presentations, performances, and recognition events are more than cherished traditions. They provide opportunities to honor achievement, recognize hard work, and celebrate the unique contributions of students at every grade level and in every facet of school life. This week, we highlight just a few examples of the outstanding work taking place throughout our schools.

One of the highlights of the season was this week’s Science Research Symposium, where students in the district’s rigorous three-year Science Research Program presented independent projects developed with the guidance of expert mentors. Their work reflects the curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that define our Portrait of a Graduate. Covering topics from biomedical science to environmental policy, these projects have earned recognition at both regional and national levels.

Equally significant is our Senior Project Presentation Night. Held Monday evening, the event was a capstone experience for graduating seniors. Through in-depth research and mentorship, students explore topics of personal interest and present their findings to the community. These projects showcase creativity, independence, and preparedness for life beyond high school.

Our High School Awards Night, held last week, was another treasured tradition, celebrating student excellence in academics, leadership, service, and extracurricular achievement. This event highlights not only the talents of our students but also the support of our educators and families.
We also recently recognized our scholar-athletes at the annual Scholar-Athletes Breakfast. These students have demonstrated exceptional commitment both in the classroom and on the field, exemplifying discipline, resilience, and effective balance.

Innovation and creativity were on full display at our District-wide STEAM Fair recently, where students in grades 5 through 12 shared projects spanning science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Their creations underscored the vibrant, interdisciplinary learning happening throughout the district.

Looking ahead, for our younger students, elementary and middle school moving-up ceremonies later this month will mark important milestones. These heartfelt celebrations recognize growth and achievement while inspiring excitement for the next chapter in their educational journey at Warwick Valley.

The culmination of these celebrations will be the Warwick Valley High School Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony on June 27. This milestone will celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of our graduating seniors. We look forward to hearing from valedictorian James Curtis and salutatorian Nathan Link as we honor the Class of 2026 and wish them success in all that lies ahead.

Recognizing students for their achievements and growth fosters their pride and motivation. These events encourage them to keep striving and reinforce values like perseverance and curiosity. They also help create a supportive, inclusive environment where every student feels valued. We are proud to honor them.

Here are some highlights from our schools this week: 

Park Avenue Elementary School
Students are thoroughly enjoying their participation in Historical Fiction Book Clubs. Based on their interests, students joined clubs focused on one of three historical periods: the American Revolution, Immigration through Ellis Island, or World War II. Each club selected a common text and developed a reading schedule outlining assigned pages, discussion dates, and reading response activities.
Each day, students engage in thoughtful discussions about their reading and share responses to prompts such as, “Compare and contrast two characters in the book. How are they similar or different?” These conversations help students deepen their comprehension, strengthen critical-thinking skills, and learn from one another’s perspectives.

Ms. Hornbeck reflected on the experience, saying, “As a teacher, spending time with each club during this shared time is very rewarding. Hearing students respectfully compare and contrast their responses, while seeing every student have an opportunity to shine and contribute, is wonderful. There is a high level of engagement and excitement during Book Club time.”

Kindergarten students are preparing for a special trip to the Post Office by bringing in envelopes addressed to family members or friends and affixed with stamps. During their visit on Friday, students will mail their own “snail mail” letters. This annual experience helps children better understand the world around them, encourages written communication, and fosters a sense of community.

Students in grades K–4 also welcomed staff from the Albert Wisner Library, who shared information about the library’s summer programs and resources. Students learned about upcoming events, summer reading opportunities, and activities designed to keep them engaged in learning throughout the summer months.

Sanfordville Elementary School
Sanfordville’s first-grade students recently stepped back in time during their annual field trip to Museum Village. As they explored historical buildings and exhibits, students gained a firsthand look at life in earlier generations. Highlights included visiting a one-room schoolhouse and general store, viewing antique carriages and farm tools, making candles, and learning about historical methods of energy production. The experience brought history to life and provided students with a meaningful connection to the past.

Our fourth-grade musicians showcased their talents during a special performance at Warwick Valley High School. Congratulations to all of the students, as well as their dedicated teachers, Ms. Keely Blaikner, Ms. Katlyn Mulzet, and Ms. Alison Echevarria, for their hard work throughout the year and for presenting such an outstanding concert. The orchestra performed selections including We Have Grown, Salamander Samba, and Viva la Vida. The band followed with performances of Hot Cross Buns, Merrily We Roll Along, Beethoven’s 9th, and Glorioso. The concert concluded with the fourth-grade chorus performing Pizza Hut Canon and Kaleidoscope, bringing the evening to a memorable close.

First-grade students also welcomed members of the Warwick Historical Society, who visited classrooms to share the tradition of American “Tall Tales.” Students listened to stories about Johnny Appleseed and actively participated in discussions and activities connected to the readings. Following the presentation, students experienced games that children enjoyed long ago, including balancing coffee beans on spoons and using only their knees to place clothespins into jars. The visit offered a fun and engaging way to connect literature, history, and play.

Students across all grade levels recently met with representatives from the Albert Wisner Library to learn about the library’s Summer Reading Program. During these presentations, students were introduced to a variety of activities, events, and resources designed to encourage reading and learning throughout the summer months.

Warwick Valley Middle School
The Middle School recently hosted its annual May We Honor You Breakfast, a cherished tradition held each year prior to Memorial Day to recognize and thank veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists for their service and sacrifice. The middle school cafeteria was transformed into a patriotic display of red, white, and blue as the school community welcomed an impressive 93 guests, including veterans, active military members, reservists, and local community members.

The event provides students with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the importance of military service and to express gratitude to those who have served our nation. Guests represented multiple generations and branches of the armed forces, creating a powerful atmosphere of appreciation, connection, and remembrance.

The morning began with outstanding musical performances by the Honors Symphony and the Ukulele Club, helping to create a warm and celebratory atmosphere. Ms. Rueckert served as master of ceremonies for what marked her final year in that role, guiding the program with her customary enthusiasm and helping make the event especially memorable.

This year's breakfast was truly student-centered under the leadership of Home and Careers teachers Ms. Fox and Ms. McKay. Students played an integral role in preparing for the event, decorating the cafeteria and creating thoughtful handmade menus, coasters, and cards expressing gratitude to veterans. Seventh-grade students baked pastries that were served during the breakfast and proudly assisted in welcoming and serving guests throughout the morning.

Behind the scenes, Warwick Valley Middle School culinary students worked diligently to prepare a delicious breakfast. Students could be found cooking scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and fresh waffles as they helped bring the event to life. The May We Honor You Breakfast once again showcased the compassion, gratitude, and dedication of Warwick Valley Middle School students and staff while providing a meaningful opportunity to honor those who have served—and continue to serve—our country.

Warwick Valley High School
The Class of 2027 enjoyed a memorable evening at this year’s Junior Prom, held at the beautiful Otterkill Country Club. Dressed in their finest attire, students gathered to celebrate with friends and classmates while taking part in one of the most anticipated traditions of the high school experience.
Junior Prom is a milestone event that provides students with an opportunity to come together outside the classroom to celebrate friendships, school spirit, and the memories they have created throughout the year. It is also a meaningful marker on the journey toward senior year, reflecting both personal growth and the strong connections students have built with one another.

The evening was filled with laughter, dancing, great food, and lasting memories. Students enjoyed a festive atmosphere as they spent time with friends, captured photos, and celebrated the accomplishments and experiences that have defined their junior year. The energy, enthusiasm, and pride of the Class of 2027 were evident throughout the night.

Special thanks go to the Class of 2027 officers and class advisor Ms. Murphy for their dedication and hard work in planning such a successful event. Their leadership and attention to detail helped create an evening that students will remember for years to come.

The celebration concluded with the announcement of the Junior Prom Court, providing a fitting highlight to an unforgettable evening. Congratulations to the Class of 2027 on a wonderful prom and on continuing a tradition that brings students together in celebration, friendship, and school pride.

As we near the end of the school year, I am reminded that the true measure of a school district is not found solely in test scores or awards, but in the growth, character, and experiences of its students. The events highlighted this week reflect the dedication of our students, the support of our families, and the commitment of our faculty and staff. Thank you for helping make Warwick Valley a community where students are encouraged to learn, lead, create, and thrive.

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Photo of the Week

Warwick girls lacrosse players celebrate after defeating F.D. Roosevelt 14-2 in the Section 9 Class B championship game at Monroe-Woodbury High School on May 29, 2026.