Superintendent of Schools

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL CUFSD FAMILIES!

 

We begin the 2026–2027 school year focused on inspiring every student to discover their strengths, explore new possibilities, and develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in school and beyond. This work is made possible through the dedication of our teachers and staff and the partnership of our families and community. 

Our District Goals provide the foundation for this year’s objectives, bringing our mission and vision to life and guiding continuous growth and improvement throughout our schools. NY Inspires and the New York State Portrait of a Graduate help shape our priorities, connecting standards-aligned instruction with innovative learning that equips students with the knowledge and skills for future success. 

With the support of the 2026–2027 school budget, we are building on our progress and expanding opportunities for students at every level. Highlights for the year ahead include: 

• Strengthening Safety, Security, and Facilities. We will continue to advance districtwide safety protocols and emergency preparedness through collaboration with law enforcement, risk management partners, and our Building Emergency Response Teams, including the addition of a District Safety Coordinator through Orange-Ulster BOCES, while investing in systems and facilities that support safe and secure learning environments. 
• Strengthening Academic Foundations and Student Achievement. Guided by the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards, our focus remains on strong foundational skills and high-quality instruction across English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and all content areas. Student assessment data and multiple measures of learning will guide instruction and align support with individual student needs. 
• Expanding Opportunities for Our Youngest Learners. A significant milestone this year is our ability to provide Universal Pre-K access for all eligible Chester students, through the expansion from one to two classrooms at Chester Elementary School and a new partnership with On My Way Early Learning Center. 
• Integrating Technology and Innovation. Robotics, multimedia, engineering, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies will continue to enhance teaching and learning while creating new ways for students to innovate, solve problems, and apply their knowledge. As AI becomes increasingly relevant to college, careers, and everyday life, students will build the knowledge and skills to use these tools effectively, ethically, and responsibly. 
• Connecting Learning to Future Pathways. We will expand career-connected learning and workplace internships, providing students with opportunities to connect academic knowledge to real-world experiences, explore their interests, and better understand future pathways. 
• Empowering Student Voice, Leadership, and Citizenship.  Opportunities for student voice and leadership will allow students to share their perspectives, develop leadership skills, support their peers, and contribute to their schools and community. Building on this focus, we will expand opportunities for students to earn the New York State Seal of Biliteracy and Seal of Civic Readiness, recognizing multilingualism, civic engagement, and active citizenship. 
• Advancing Professional Learning and Teacher Leadership. Continued investment in our educators will include targeted professional development, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), collaborative planning with administrators, and opportunities for teachers to share expertise, take on leadership roles, and help shape practices that strengthen instruction and support student learning.  At Chester Academy, Project Based Learning professional development will also support our preparation for the 2027–2028 transition to block scheduling.
• Strengthening Family and Community Partnerships. Through the CUFSD Family Instructional Academy, CUFSD Parent Advisory Panel, and Chester Academy Athletics Panel, we will continue to provide opportunities for families to learn, share perspectives and help inform District initiatives and continuous improvement. Our PTA, PTSA, and SEPTSA remain valued partners in strengthening parent connections and supporting our students and schools. 
• Moving Our Interscholastic Athletics Facility Forward. Following voter approval in December, our Interscholastic Athletics Facility capital project is currently moving through the New York State Education Department approval process. We will continue to share important milestones as the project advances and invite our community to attend future Board of Education meetings, where formal project updates will be presented. Through this exciting project, we are investing in our students, strengthening our community, and building Chester’s future together.
• Strengthening Communication and Connection. Through ParentSquare, our District website, newsletters, and social media, we will provide timely information, share District initiatives, celebrate student achievements, and keep students, staff, families, and our broader community informed and connected. 

These highlights provide a snapshot of the work ahead in support of our District Goals. Following the August 19 Board of Education meeting, the specific objectives established for the 2026–2027 school year will be available on our CUFSD website. 

As we begin the year ahead, it is our collective commitment that brings these goals to life. I am honored to work alongside our Board of Education, administrators, teachers, staff, families, and community as we inspire possibilities and create opportunities for every student to succeed.

I look forward to all we will accomplish together in 2026-2027!

Catherine O’Hara
Superintendent of Schools
Chester Union Free School District