Category Archives: Uncategorized

We Need Your Help – Now Hiring Bus Drivers!

Posted on

We need your help. Our district is currently facing a shortage of school bus drivers. While we continue to post positions and conduct interviews, we have not yet been able to staff our transportation team fully, and without filling these roles, we cannot guarantee consistent, safe transportation for all of our students.

We’re asking our GD families to consider whether someone in your circle, a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or neighbor, might be interested in becoming a school bus driver.

Here’s what we’re offering:

  • Minimum starting pay of $25/hour

  • Paid training available

  • A flexible part-time schedule (approximately 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon)

  • Sign-on bonus for new drivers

This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for meaningful part-time work that directly supports the students and families of our community. Whether someone is retired, looking for a new routine, or just wants to make a difference, we welcome your application.

If you or someone you know is interested, please contact Kyle Barber at kbarber@wynantskillufsd.org or visit our website for more information and to apply.

Full Optimization Study Report

Posted on

Wynantskill Community,

We have important and exciting news to share.

At the July 1st Board of Education meeting, the board accepted the final analysis and written report from the Optimization Study conducted by the Schmitt Leadership Group. Mr. Bob Breidenstein was present to present the findings and recommended that the district pursue a Reorganization Feasibility Study with the Troy City School District, pending mutual agreement from both school boards.

If initiated, this Feasibility Study would conduct a thorough analysis of both districts’ projected enrollments and staffing plans, educational program offerings, curriculum, transportation, and the potential fiscal impacts of reorganization, including state aid, expenditures, and local tax implications.

The purpose of the Reorganization Feasibility Study is to ensure student-centered decision-making, fiscal responsibility, and a firm commitment to preserving Wynantskill’s unique identity and educational philosophy, all while maintaining full transparency and trust with our community.

Attached are the PowerPoint slides from Mr. Breidenstein’s presentation, along with the complete report and appendices, which include all survey responses.

We will continue to keep you informed of any next steps regarding this potential study.

Wynantskill UFSD final optimization report at Reorganization Meeting 7.1.2025

7.1.2025 Final District Report-Wynantskill UFSD Optimization Study

Please Take This Survey!

Posted on
Please take this optimization study survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/wynantskillufsd
As seen in our budget newsletter:
A School District Optimization Study is a comprehensive analysis conducted to help a school district operate more efficiently, effectively, and sustainably, both educationally and financially. The Wynantskill UFSD initiated this 6-month study in January 2025 with the support of veteran school leaders, Mr. Robert Breidenstein and Dr. Brian Schmidt from The Schmitt Leadership Group, LLC. This study will review the continuum of education services provided by the district, including enrollment and educational program alignment, human resource allocations, organizational efficiency, facility utilization, student experiences, community experiences, transportation logistics, operations management, resource deployment, fiscal stewardship, and long-term sustainability. The primary purpose of this optimization study is to conduct a thorough assessment of the views and insights from various stakeholders, including the administration, faculty, staff, students, family members and community members. By gathering data and reviewing all stakeholder perspectives, the district will gain a comprehensive understanding of its current state in order to inform and position itself, creating the best future for the Wynantskill UFSD. To learn more about the study and stay up to date on its progress, visit: https://www.wynantskillufsd.org/optimization-study/

2025-26 Budget Vote Passes

Posted on

The Wynantskill Union Free School District is pleased to announce that the proposed 2025-26 school budget was approved by voters on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, with a vote of 164 in favor and 45 against. The approved budget totals $11,317,782, ensuring the continuation of our commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Despite facing significant funding reductions due to state-level budget cuts, the district remains dedicated to preserving high-quality academic and extracurricular programs, retaining valuable staff, and investing in resources that directly benefit student learning and well-being.

Superintendent Dr. Yodis expressed gratitude following the vote:

“On behalf of the entire district, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our community for your continued support and for approving next year’s school budget. Your vote of confidence ensures we can maintain our quality programs, support our dedicated staff, and provide the resources our students need to thrive. We are so grateful for your partnership and commitment to the success of every child in the Wynantskill Union Free School District. THANK YOU!”

In addition to the budget, voters approved a proposition to purchase a new school bus, enhancing the safety and reliability of student transportation.

The district also congratulates Cathleen Castle, who was re-elected to the Board of Education, and Jennie Brown, who was elected to her first term. We thank both individuals for their commitment to public service and support of our schools.

We are excited to move forward with the important work of educating and supporting every student in our district. Thank you, Wynantskill community!

Optimization Study Community Conversations – May 22nd 5:00 & 6:00 pm

Posted on
As many of you may know, WUFSD is undergoing an Optimization Study that aims to evaluate and enhance the opportunities currently offered within our school district. This study will position our district to create the best future for the Wynantskill community. Mr. Breidenstein from the Schmitt Leadership Group has already been in-district, engaging students and faculty in these important conversations.
The Schmitt Leadership Group will facilitate two more opportunities for community conversations in order to provide an overview of the process and purpose of the study and, most importantly, to allow the Wynantskill community an opportunity to share their experiences, opinions, and concerns. These will be held on May 22nd at 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm in the GD cafeteria.
To learn more, click the link HERE.

May 20th Community Events!

Posted on

SO MUCH happening on May 20th!
We’re excited to invite you to a fun-filled and meaningful day at Gardner-Dickinson on Tuesday, May 20th! Make sure to mark your calendars, there’s something for everyone to participate in.
Here’s what’s happening throughout the day:
🗳️ School Budget Vote & Board of Education Election
The annual school budget vote and Board of Education election will take place in the GD Library from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Your voice matters—please come out and vote!
🎟️ Student Vote: Duct Tape a Teacher to the Wall
We can’t leave out the students – we’re launching a brand new student vote tradition this year—duct taping a teacher to the wall! Students can cast their votes in the GD Library from 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM to decide which teacher gets taped up. Students must bring an adult with them in order to vote. Be sure to watch this video to learn more about this fun event!
🎨 PTA’s “Chalk the Walk” Event | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Come celebrate creativity and positivity! Students will decorate the sidewalk in front of the school with uplifting messages and fun chalk art. During the event, families can also enjoy the playground, plus snacks and drinks provided by the PTA.
🖼️ School-Wide Art Show
Thanks to Mrs. Mitchell, the GD hallways will be transformed into an art gallery featuring artwork from every grade in the school. Take a walk through the first floor and enjoy the incredible talent and creativity of our young artists!
It’s going to be a wonderful day celebrating our students, staff, and school community. We hope to see you there!