Greetings,

As we welcome the month of April, there is a renewed energy in the air. Just as the season changes and the world around us begins to grow, we are seeing that same vibrant growth and evolution within our own school community.

This is a season of transformation. We are looking back with immense gratitude for everything our scholars have accomplished so far this year, while looking forward with high expectations for all that is still to come. Our students continue to show their Tiger Pride through their resilience, their creativity, and their commitment to one another.

As our community evolves, we remain focused on:

Celebrating Progress: Honoring the academic and personal milestones our scholars hit every day.

Strengthening Roots: Deepening the connections between home and school that make our community thrive.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for a strong finish to the school year filled with discovery and joy.

Thank you for being our partners in this journey. Your support is the "sunshine" that helps our scholars grow. Let's make this April a month of growth, pride, and community.

Mental Health On-Site Support at BJM

ICSD currently hosts on-site Tompkins County Mental Health counseling services in six school buildings across the district, and we are excited to share that we are now school number seven.

Beginning in April, we will launch a formal referral process for families interested in having their scholar participate in this service. Participation in on-site counseling is voluntary, and caregiver consent will be required before any services are provided.

The on-site mental health counselor will be available to provide individual outpatient counseling services for scholars, support families, and make referrals to outside resources as needed. All services will be provided in a confidential, age-appropriate, and supportive manner.

This service is part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being, social-emotional development, and overall success of our scholars. We believe access to mental health support at school can be a valuable resource for scholars and families, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with you in supporting your child’s well-being.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your grade-level school social worker. Katherine Marte grades K/1, Suzanne Scholten grades 2/3 and Johara Malcolm grades 4/5

Huge Kudos to Jamie Driscoll for her support in planning and implementing our site at BJM.