It’s hard to believe that the 2021-22 school year has come to an end; and what a year it has been!

During this final week of school, we celebrated as our youngest learners participated in their moving up ceremony from Pre-K to Kindergarten, as our 5th graders move forward to the middle school, and as our Class of 2022 graduates and steps into the next chapter of their lives.

It has been an honor and a privilege to participate in my first moving up ceremonies and tonight’s graduation as the superintendent of the Watervliet schools! I am proud to serve alongside our Board of Education, our leadership team, and our teachers and staff. Their unwavering support for our students, despite the unexpected twists and turns, and ups and downs of this school year is greatly appreciated.

The past few years have been far from normal, and have tested all of us in ways we could not have imagined. Yet, our students, teachers, staff and administrators persevered – and I am so proud of all we have been able to accomplish together despite the many challenges we faced.

I also thank our parents, guardians, family members and friends for your support, patience and cooperation throughout the year. Thank you for entrusting us with your children’s care throughout these unpredictable times.

Most of all, I applaud our students for your determination, your grit, your flexibility and your positivity in facing and overcoming the challenges this school year. Despite it all, you’ve learned valuable lessons and shown there is nothing you cannot accomplish.

As we leave the 2021-22 school year behind, I congratulate physics teacher Cecilia Nicolaescu and home and careers teacher Bill Gallagher on their retirement, and thank them for their years of service and commitment to Watervliet schools. You will be missed!

Although no one can predict what September will bring, I promise that no matter what, together we will deliver a high-quality education for our students in the safest learning environment possible. Over the summer, I will share more information about the reopening of school and COVID health and safety protocols. Until then, be well, take care of yourselves and one another, and thank you for everything you continue to do for every student, every day.

Have an enjoyable, safe and relaxing summer!

Dr. Donald Stevens Jr.
Superintendent of Schools

(This message was shared with WCSD families and staff via One Call Now email on Friday, June 24.)