Weekly E-Newsletter

 

June 22, 2025


Dear Parents and Guardians,


As I prepare to conclude my time as Principal of Tuckahoe Middle High School on June 30th, I want to take
a moment to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for welcoming me into this extraordinary
community.


Over the past two years, it has been an honor to serve your children and work alongside such dedicated
parents, guardians, and caregivers. Your partnership, and the support of our PTA, has been instrumental in
making our school a place where students are not only challenged academically but also nurtured and
inspired to grow into their fullest potential.


Together, we have taken meaningful steps forward, introducing new initiatives, expanding academic
opportunities, and strengthening the structures that support student success. I remain confident that the
exceptional teachers and staff at Tuckahoe Middle High School will continue this important work and that
our scholars will soar to new heights in the years ahead.


Thank you once again for the trust, encouragement, and kindness you have shown me during my tenure. I
will carry my experience in Tuckahoe with pride and deep appreciation.


General Announcements:
THS Commencement Information - Update:
With extremely high temperatures expected on Thursday, June 24th, my leadership team and I will be
meeting with Superintendent Goodman on Monday, June 23rd, to explore several options to ensure the
safety and well-being of all attendees. Superintendent Goodman will make the final decision, and we will
share an update with families no later than 3:00 p.m. on Monday.


We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this situation. This is a momentous
occasion for our graduates, and our priority is to ensure that everyone can celebrate safely and
comfortably.


THS Commencement Rehearsals
The two mandatory Tuckahoe HS Graduation Rehearsals will be held on Monday, June 23rd at 11AM and
on Tuesday, June 24th at 9:30AM. All THS graduates are required to report to the auditorium to begin the
rehearsal. We are eager to prepare our graduates for this monumental event in their lives.

Tuckahoe Middle School Graduation:
We are delighted to invite you to celebrate the achievements of our 8th grade students at their graduation
ceremony from Tuckahoe Middle School. This significant event will take place on Thursday, June 26th, at
6:00 PM in the Front Courtyard by the Middle School sign. Invitations and tickets have been sent by mail,
with each family receiving four tickets for entrance to the ceremony. Graduates should arrive at the
auditorium by 5:15 p.m.. and the commencement ceremony will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m.


Please take note of the following important information and dates:
Early Dismissal for TMS Students:
● Thursday, June 26th: TMS Early Dismissal at 11:00 a.m.
● Friday, June 27th: TMS Last Day of School; Early Dismissal at 9:00 am.


Final Report Card and I-Ready Report:
On Friday, June 27th, the final report cards and I-Ready (TMS) reports will be available to parents and
students via the portal.


2025-26 School Year Student Schedule:
On Monday, July 15th, middle and high school students will have access to their class schedules for the
upcoming school year via the student portal. This exciting milestone allows students to start preparing for a
successful academic year ahead.


For high school students wishing to make changes to their schedules, such as adding or dropping courses,
it is essential to complete the Course Change/Drop Form and submit it via email to their school counselor.
Our dedicated school counselors will carefully review each request and respond periodically throughout the
summer and before the school year begins in September. Attached is a copy of the ADD/DROP Form,
COURSE CHANGE/DROP FORM 2025.docx


Middle school students who wish to request a schedule change should contact Ms. DiFrancesco, our
School Counselor, at difrancd@tuckahoeschools.org. Ms. DiFrancesco will be available to assist with any
scheduling needs and ensure that each student is set up for success.


Senior Internship Program:
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of the incredible sponsors who hosted our student interns this year.
Your mentorship, time, and support provided our students with meaningful, real-world experiences that
enriched their learning and personal growth. These partnerships play a vital role in preparing our students
for life beyond the classroom. We are so grateful for your continued commitment to our school community!

Tuckahoe Guidance Department Updates:
2nd Annual College Workshop for Rising Seniors:
The Tuckahoe High School Counseling Department is excited to host our Second Annual College
Workshop on Friday, June 27th, from 7:45 AM to 11:30 AM in the Tuckahoe High School Auditorium.

Bus Schedule for Final and Regents Exam:
Please be advised that from Tuesday, June 10th through Wednesday, June 25th, high school students
will follow the Final Exam, Regents Review, and Regents Exam schedule.


During this period, high school students are only required to report to school when they are scheduled to
take a Final or Regents Exam. Students should not report to school on days when they do not have an
exam scheduled.In contrast, middle school students will follow their regular school day schedule, which
runs from 7:42 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day.
All morning and afternoon buses will run on their regular schedules, and additional transportation will be
provided for any scheduled exams or review sessions. Please see the attached bus schedule,
2025 Final Exams & Regents Bus Schedule.docx

Fall 2025 Athletic Start Dates:
Please be advised that the start date for any student interested in participating on one of our Varsity or JV
Fall Sports teams will be Monday, August 25th (Football Mini-Camp: August 20th). Mandatory
tryouts/practices for all of our Varsity and JV Fall Sports teams will begin on this date. We are asking for all
families to please plan accordingly. Modified Fall Sports will begin on Monday, September 8th. Information
to register your child for one of our fall sports teams will be sent in mid-July. A list of our fall sports offerings
can be found here. Should there be any questions, please feel free to contact me directly via email:
colasuonnoa@tuckahoeschools.org or via phone: 914-337-5376 x1244.


TMHS Summer Device Access and Enrichment Access:
This summer, students in grades 3 –11 will be bringing home their school-issued devices to support
continued learning and enrichment. Students are encouraged to take advantage of familiar digital platforms
such as Sora and i-Ready to stay engaged and build on their academic growth over the break. Please note
that students entering grades 3, 6, 9, and 12 will receive new devices at the start of the upcoming school
year. More information regarding device distribution will be shared in the fall. We encourage all families to
support their child’s learning by setting aside time for reading, exploration, and continued practice this
summer.


Expanding Horizons: Student Visits to the MET and Bronx Zoo:
As part of our Community Experience initiative, scholars in Mrs. Harding-Boyd’s class participated in two
enriching outings this June—to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Bronx Zoo in New York City.


At the MET, students explored career opportunities within the museum setting and visited several galleries
they specifically requested, including the Egyptian Art collection, Arms & Armor, the American Wing,
Musical Instruments, and two special exhibitions: Super Fine and Lorna Simpson.
During their visit to the Bronx Zoo, students learned about careers in animal care and conservation while
exploring exhibits such as the Birds of Prey, Aquatic Bird House, Sea Bird Aviary, and the Madagascar
habitat.


TMS Community Read Initiative:
Tuckahoe Middle School has officially launched its 2025 Summer Reading Program, designed to promote
a love of reading and support students in becoming lifelong learners. In partnership with the PTA, every
middle school student will receive a free copy of this year’s featured community read, Wild Robot by Peter
Brown. This engaging and thought-provoking novel will serve as the foundation for a school-wide
celebration in September, where students will participate in activities and discussions centered around the
book’s themes.


The Summer Reading Program consists of two parts: the community read and a student choice book. In
addition to Wild Robot, students are encouraged to select a second book of their choice from a curated
grade-level list. These lists provide a wide range of genres and topics, allowing students to explore what
they are most passionate about. While we hope students complete both reading assignments over the
summer, we understand that family schedules may vary. Rest assured, teachers will be ready in
September to support all students and help them complete their assignments.


All program information, including book lists by grade, can be found on the Tuckahoe Middle School
website. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students maintain the joy and benefits of
reading during the summer break. We wish you and your family a restful and enriching summer filled with
great books and meaningful conversations. See the attached letter from the middle school teachers,
2025 Summer Reading Parent Letter

THS Awards and National Honor Society Induction Ceremonies:
Congratulations to our scholars who were inducted into the National Honor Society and to each of our
award recipients. We would like to extend our gratitude to all the parents who attended to celebrate this
special moment in our students’ lives. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the high school
teachers who played an active role in both ceremonies, especially Mrs. Colleen Joyce, National Honor
Society Co-advisors. Additionally, I want to express my deep appreciation to Mrs. Lauren Nickoletos and
Mrs. Doreen Pinto for organizing both events. I would also like to thank Mr. DeBelis for serving as the
master of ceremony. Again, congratulations to our scholars, and thank you, parents, for your continued
partnership and support.


MHS Final and NYS Regents Exam Schedules:
Attached are the final exam schedules for the middle school and high school programs. The last day of
classes for high school students ONLY is Monday, June 16th. Middle school scholars are expected to
report for in-person instruction through June 27th, which will follow an early dismissal schedule. As a
reminder, final or Regents exam grades count for 10% of high school students’ final year-end grade
● TMS Final Exam Schedule
● HS Final and NYS Regent Exam Schedules


News from the PTA:
June 25, 8th Grade COLOR WARS (during school hours):
June 25: 6th & 7th Grade 'Fun in the Sun' AND 8th Grade Color Wars
The Tuckahoe PTA Middle School Committee is excited for the 2025 8th Grade 'Color Wars' and 6th and
7th Grade 'Fun in the Sun'! TMS teachers, administration, and PE teachers will be leading the activities for
this highly anticipated annual event.


We need YOUR help to make this event happen for our kids! Please VOLUNTEER by visiting the Sign-up
Genius HERE!


Please Join the Tuckahoe Athletic Council for the 2025-2026 School Year:

Important Dates
Here is a list of important dates:
Monday, June 23rd 11AM - THS Graduation Rehearsal #1
Tuesday, June 24th 9:30AM - THS Graduation Rehearsal #2
Tuesday, June 24th 5:45PM - THS Graduation
Wednesday, June 25th - 8th Grade Color Wars / 6th & 7th Grade Field Day
Wednesday, June 25th - THS Graduation - Rain Date
Thursday, June 26th - Student Dismissal at 11:05AM
Thursday, June 26th 6PM - TMS Graduation
Friday, June 27th - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal


Sincerely,
R. Arthur,  S. DeBellis,  A. Colasuonno