District Newsletter
June 2026
Use this link to view/download the June 2026 newsletter.
DISTRICT NEWS
From Superintendent Catherine O'Hara
As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we reflect on the remarkable progress
achieved through the collective efforts of our CUFSD team. With students at the heart
of every decision, this year's accomplishments underscore our commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement. A year-end report highlighting this year's accomplishments is available on our district website.
We are proud to celebrate the exceptional dedication, care, and contributions of our staff throughout the year. The growth and success of our students reflect their expertise, compassion, and collaborative spirit. That success would not be possible without the partnership of our parents, families, and the Chester community. Special thanks to our PTA, PTSA, SEPTSA, and all who shared their time, perspectives, and expertise through the CUFSD Parent Advisory Panel, Athletics Advisory Panel, Family Instructional Academy, and Community Advisory Committee for the Interscholastic Athletics Facility Project. Your engagement helps shape the decisions and improvements that move our district forward.
Congratulations to our graduates, award recipients, and retirees. Together, we celebrate a year of achievement and look forward to building on this momentum in 2026–2027!
Amy Carola Honored With MHSSC Teacher Of Excellence Award
Congratulations, Amy Carola, on being honored with a 2026 Mid-Hudson School Study Council Teacher of Excellence Award, which recognizes educators for exemplary teaching, leadership, and commitment to their
school communities.
This recognition is a reflection of the impact Ms. Carola has made every day, igniting curiosity, fostering a love of learning, and helping students grow with confidence and joy. See more here.
Board Of Education 2026 Excellence Awards
At the June 10 Board of Education meeting, the Board honored two employees whose dedication and professionalism exemplify the excellence that defines our school community. This year’s Staff and Instructional Excellence Award winners were carefully considered, and the board selected honorees who truly embody our mission and vision.
Congratulations to Joan Coyle (Staff Excellence Award) and Denise Gass (Instructional Excellence Award) for
outstanding service and contributions. Watch the June 10 meeting here.
Honoring Our Retiring & Newly Tenured Teachers
During the same meeting the district honored retirees and newly tenured teachers!
Congratulations and thank you to our 2026 retirees, Patty Hallman and Catherine Nelting. Their years of dedicated service, commitment, professionalism, and care they’ve exhibited have touched countless lives and enriched our school community. And, congratulations also to our newest tenure recipients, Doreen Baptiste and Tyra Busigo! We look forward to your continued positive impact on our students and families!
CHESTER ACADEMY NEWS
From Principal John Flanagan
As we come to the close of another successful school year at Chester Academy, we would like to take a moment to reflect on what a truly special year it has been. Throughout the year, our students have demonstrated tremendous growth, resilience, and achievement both inside and outside the classroom. From academic accomplishments and athletic successes to outstanding performances in the arts and meaningful community involvement, our students have made us proud each and every day.
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our 8th grade students as they celebrate their Moving Up Ceremony and prepare to begin an exciting new chapter in high school. We know they will continue to accomplish great things in the years ahead.
We also want to recognize the Class of 2026 as they prepare to graduate on June 25. This remarkable group
of students has left a lasting impact on our school community, and we wish them the very best as they
pursue their future goals and opportunities.
Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome the Class of 2033 from Chester Elementary School, as well as 14 new students joining us from the Greenwood Lake School District. We look forward to having them become part of the Chester Academy family.
We wish all of our students, families, and staff a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable summer. Have fun, make
memories, rest up, and don't forget to read a book or two!
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
It was an evening of celebration for Chester Union Free School District, as the 94 members of the Class of 2026 were celebrated on Thursday, June 25 during Chester Academy’s 141st commencement ceremony! Additionally, students were recognized for having received more than 60 individual awards for their achievements throughout the 2025-2026 school year.
Read the story and see more photos here!
Chester Academy celebrates 8th Grade Moving Up
Seventy-three Chester Academy eighth graders reached a monumental milestone and officially entered high school during their moving up ceremony Tuesday evening. Students eagerly walked across the stage to receive their certificates as they embarked on a new chapter in their lives. Congratulations, Hambos. You’re the Class of 2030 now!
Read the story here! Check out the photo gallery here! Watch the ceremony here!
CHESTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
From Principal Mary Kate Boesch
As we close out the 2025–2026 school year, I am filled with pride as I reflect on all that our students, staff, and families have accomplished together at Chester Elementary School. June has been filled with joyful celebrations, including our Star Warsthemed
Field Day, the Pre-K Showcase, Kindergarten Picnic, publishing parties, writers’ celebrations, classroom showcases, and family visits that highlighted the incredible learning that has taken place throughout the year.
At CES, student learning and growth remain at the heart of everything we do. This year, our students challenged themselves academically, developed new skills, built meaningful friendships, and demonstrated perseverance, kindness, and leadership. It has been inspiring to watch their confidence grow as they reached new milestones and achieved their goals.
A special congratulations to our fifth grade students as they celebrated their Moving Up Ceremony and end-of-year party. We are so proud of all they have accomplished during their six years at CES. As they begin the
next chapter of their educational journey at Chester Academy, we know they are prepared to take on any challenge with the knowledge, skills, and character they have developed here at CES.
Thank you to our dedicated faculty, staff, and families for your partnership throughout the year. Wishing
everyone a happy, healthy, and well-deserved summer break. We look forward to welcoming our students
back in September for another wonderful year of learning and growth!
Remember, if you can be anything, be kind!
5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony
The Class of 2033 took another big step closer to high school graduation during Chester Elementary School's annual 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, held Thursday, June 18 at Chester Academy!
"I believe in each and every one of you, and I am incredibly proud of who you have become. Congratulations, fifth graders,” Principal Boesch said “As you leave elementary school behind, embrace the future you will create. We cannot wait to see all that you accomplish."
Read the story here! See a photo gallery here! Watch the ceremony here!
Year-end Family Fun At The Kindergarten Picnic
Kindergarten students and their families enjoyed a beautiful morning together at the Kindergarten Picnic! Families shared snacks and special moments with their children while watching friendships shine as students laughed, played, and socialized with classmates.
See a gallery of family photos from the day here!
The Force Was Strong With This Field Day
CES students enjoyed a Star Wars-themed field day filled with excitement, teamwork, and plenty of fun! From navigating galactic challenges to racing through activities under the sun, our young Jedis gave it their all.
See a gallery of field day pictures here, you can!
Looking Ahead To 2026-2027
- View the 2025–2026 District Goals End-of-Year Report for a summary of this year's accomplishments.
- The FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL is Tuesday. September 2, 2026. View the 2026-2027 Calendar.
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