To view continous updates regarding the ongoing Optimization Study, visit our web page here: https://www.wynantskillufsd.org/optimization-study/
April 2025: Dear Gardner-Dickinson School Community,
We hope this letter finds you well. We are writing to provide an update regarding the progress with the district’s optimization study. The Schmitt Leadership Group continues to work on the study and anticipates it will conclude in the summer. The Board of Education will receive a preliminary report in July 2025, and the completed study will soon follow. The final report will be presented in a public forum at a date to be determined after the August Board of Education meeting.
The primary purpose of this optimization study is to conduct a thorough assessment of the views and insights from various stakeholders, including the Board of Education, superintendent, principal, faculty, staff, students, family members and community members. By gathering data and reviewing stakeholder perspectives, the district will gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of our district. This study will inform and position our district to create the best future for the Wynantskill UFSD.
Each action of the optimization study reviews current data and gains stakeholder perceptions, so all views are represented in future discussions. The Schmitt Leadership Group reviewed current enrollment trends, enrollment data, financial data, and prior programming decisions to develop a complete and inclusive perspective. To date, the study has offered or will offer the following opportunities to gather information, review data, and gain stakeholder perceptions:
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March 2025: Interviewed all students in grades 7&8 – over 60 participants
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March & April 2025: Stakeholder interview sessions with admin/faculty/staff, and initial in-person conversations with families -over 100 participants
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April 2025: Preliminary consolidation aid run analysis
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*May 2025: Community-wide Electronic Survey to be Launched- May 15th
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May 2025: Community-wide Member Forum Discussions- May 22nd @ 5pm and 6pm
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June 2025: Review completed for bargaining unit, transportation, tuition contracts and survey analysis
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June 2025: Review district finances and enrollment data
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June/July 2025: Public presentation and discussion
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July/August 2025: Optimization Study report provided
*Survey coming soon…
Beginning on May 15th, all district-wide community members will have the opportunity to provide feedback through an electronic survey. The survey will be launched with instructions in the budget newsletter for community members. The purpose of this survey is to dive deeper into community perceptions and to incorporate all views and visions for the future of the district.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our district. We look forward to working with you throughout this process and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient and innovative educational environment for all students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Yodis and the Wynantskill Board of Education