Superintendent

Feb. 13, 2026

Dear families,

February has significance and responsibility that speak to the heart of who we are as educators. Black History Month is more than a time to acknowledge the past; it is a moment to elevate the stories, voices, achievements, and fortitude of the people who have built our communities, our nation, and the world our students will inherit. When we intentionally center these histories, we help students understand fundamental values such as identity, justice, perseverance, creativity, and possibility. In doing so, we are not merely teaching content; we are helping young people see themselves and others more clearly.

Research reinforces just how essential this work is. Integrating Black history into instruction develops a fuller, more accurate understanding of American history while strengthening students' representation, belonging, and critical thinking.

Celebrating Our Staff & Students
Across the district, that purpose comes alive in powerful and joyful ways. Congratulations to art teachers Sue Jacobs, Lauren Reinert, and Courtney Cox, whose work, along with that of their students, is being showcased in Nazareth University’s “Shared Spaces” Show (see more below). This honor highlights not just their artistic excellence but the mentoring relationships they cultivate with students every day.

We also honor the staff members recognized during recent Teacher Appreciation Nights for athletics. Being chosen by students whose lives you have developed is one of the most meaningful forms of recognition an educator can receive. These highlighted moments represent the effort and heart of every staff member across our schools in support of this year’s common commitment, Igniting the Joy!

Advocating for Staff and Students
Last Saturday, several of our Board of Education members and student board representatives joined me at the Monroe County School Boards Association Legislative Breakfast. There, we advocated for core public education priorities, including funding, transportation, pre‑kindergarten access, and school safety.

A major focus was the growing mental health needs of students, including increased experiences with executive functions, social skills, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and the need for acceptance. We emphasized that schools cannot meet these rising needs without aligned resources, sustained funding, and clear direction from the state to ensure consistent, equitable support for all children.

We also urged lawmakers to update the state’s outdated school funding formula, which no longer reflects current population or wealth data. A modernized formula is essential to ensuring every district receives fair and adequate financial support.

Finally, we addressed the state mandate requiring all school buses to transition to electric by 2035. Even though we contract for transportation, we are not exempt. We stressed the importance of realistic timelines, adequate funding, and practical implementation planning, as this mandate will influence cost, fleet availability, and overall transportation access for our students.

Strategic Plan Design Day
Our Strategic Plan’s Community Design Day is not just for residents — it is for our entire school community, including you! Please read more right below my note about this important day! Your perspective, experience, and voice are essential. This is your district, your work, and your vision — and we are strongest when we shape the future together. Register here.

As we approach February Break, I want to wish all of you a safe, restful, and restorative week. Thank you for the many ways you bring purpose, compassion, and distinction to our students and our community each and every day.

Read the rest of this update here.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

P.S. You can find all of my updates on our website under Superintendent Update.