It was a fun- (and food-) filled morning at our Summer Ag Camp!
To start out, campers headed down to our middle/high school cafeteria where they took a tour of the kitchen and production space.
Then, campers rolled up their sleeves and got to work, chopping and dicing onions and peppers, which our food service staff then flash-froze to use in soup once the new school year starts.
After heading into the walk-in cooler to load up on fresh produce like broccoli, peppers, cucumbers and cabbage to take home with them at the end of the day, campers headed down to Mrs. Becky Sphar’s room, where they set to work on making kale chips.
Following a demo from Mrs. Sphar, campers washed, chopped and seasoned their kale before popping them into the air fryer for a few minutes.
Not gonna lie - these kale chips were TASTY.
So many flavor combinations - Mrs. Sphar’s new salt and vinegar seasoning was particularly good, as was the batch dusted with cinnamon sugar.
Healthy AND delicious? What’s not to like?!
To start out, campers headed down to our middle/high school cafeteria where they took a tour of the kitchen and production space.
Then, campers rolled up their sleeves and got to work, chopping and dicing onions and peppers, which our food service staff then flash-froze to use in soup once the new school year starts.
After heading into the walk-in cooler to load up on fresh produce like broccoli, peppers, cucumbers and cabbage to take home with them at the end of the day, campers headed down to Mrs. Becky Sphar’s room, where they set to work on making kale chips.
Following a demo from Mrs. Sphar, campers washed, chopped and seasoned their kale before popping them into the air fryer for a few minutes.
Not gonna lie - these kale chips were TASTY.
So many flavor combinations - Mrs. Sphar’s new salt and vinegar seasoning was particularly good, as was the batch dusted with cinnamon sugar.
Healthy AND delicious? What’s not to like?!
Attention Incoming Freshmen!
Freshman Orientation is happening on Thursday, August 28th from 10AM to Noon. Letters have gone out in the mail with the details. This is a great opportunity to learn about what to expect and to familiarize yourself with your schedule and what you need to start the year strong!
Call the high school main office at 585-591-0400 ext. 1108 to RSVP
Freshman Orientation is happening on Thursday, August 28th from 10AM to Noon. Letters have gone out in the mail with the details. This is a great opportunity to learn about what to expect and to familiarize yourself with your schedule and what you need to start the year strong!
Call the high school main office at 585-591-0400 ext. 1108 to RSVP
Our summer newsletter is headed to a mailbox near you!
Keep an eye out for this weekend’s Attica Penny Saver for our latest district publication, or read it on our website at the link below.
Link: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/2319/ACSD/5887623/District_Newsletter_Summer_2025.pdf
Keep an eye out for this weekend’s Attica Penny Saver for our latest district publication, or read it on our website at the link below.
Link: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/2319/ACSD/5887623/District_Newsletter_Summer_2025.pdf
🌱 Attica Middle School Summer Ag Camp – Sign Up Now! 🌿
Students entering grades 6–8 are invited to join us for hands-on days of gardening, cooking, exploring local farms, and learning about agriculture and food systems! Each day is packed with engaging, real-world activities that build confidence, spark curiosity, and connect students to where their food comes from.
Space is limited—sign up for the days that work best for your family!
📍 Held at Attica MS/HS School- drop off/pick up in the bus loop
🕘 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
🔗 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A45AFAD22A1FBC16-57506875-2025
Students entering grades 6–8 are invited to join us for hands-on days of gardening, cooking, exploring local farms, and learning about agriculture and food systems! Each day is packed with engaging, real-world activities that build confidence, spark curiosity, and connect students to where their food comes from.
Space is limited—sign up for the days that work best for your family!
📍 Held at Attica MS/HS School- drop off/pick up in the bus loop
🕘 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
🔗 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A45AFAD22A1FBC16-57506875-2025
Dear Attica Central School District Community,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the summer months with family and friends.
As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, I want to take a moment to share an important update regarding our district’s approach to student cell phone use during the school day. Following extensive discussions with stakeholders—including students, staff, families, and community members—Attica Central School District has adopted a bell-to-bell cell phone ban for all students beginning in September 2025.
This decision was made in alignment with New York State’s ongoing efforts to support student mental health and reduce digital distractions during instructional time. Our focus remains on fostering safe, respectful, and engaging learning environments that support academic growth, social development, and emotional well-being.
The updated policy was officially approved by the Board of Education on July 10, 2025 and is available for your review using the link below. The policy outlines expectations for student use of personal devices and defines clear guidelines for appropriate use during the school day from bell to bell.
We have also developed the following resources to support families in understanding this change:
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document – This resource addresses common questions about the bell-to-bell policy, including exceptions for educational use and medical needs.
• Updated Cell Phone Policy – A detailed copy of the approved policy.
• June 26, 2025 Informational Meeting Presentation – A recording and slide deck from the informational session outlining the rationale, research, and implementation plan.
You can access these resources on our district website here:
👉 [https://www.atticacsd.org/page/cell-phone-policy]
We are committed to working collaboratively with students, families, and staff to ensure a smooth implementation this fall. Our school leaders will be sharing additional information in the coming weeks, including procedures for securing devices during the school day and how we will support students in adapting to this change.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership in creating a school environment where every student can thrive. If you have questions or would like to speak with a building administrator about the policy, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kiel Illg
Superintendent of Schools
Attica Central School District
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the summer months with family and friends.
As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, I want to take a moment to share an important update regarding our district’s approach to student cell phone use during the school day. Following extensive discussions with stakeholders—including students, staff, families, and community members—Attica Central School District has adopted a bell-to-bell cell phone ban for all students beginning in September 2025.
This decision was made in alignment with New York State’s ongoing efforts to support student mental health and reduce digital distractions during instructional time. Our focus remains on fostering safe, respectful, and engaging learning environments that support academic growth, social development, and emotional well-being.
The updated policy was officially approved by the Board of Education on July 10, 2025 and is available for your review using the link below. The policy outlines expectations for student use of personal devices and defines clear guidelines for appropriate use during the school day from bell to bell.
We have also developed the following resources to support families in understanding this change:
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document – This resource addresses common questions about the bell-to-bell policy, including exceptions for educational use and medical needs.
• Updated Cell Phone Policy – A detailed copy of the approved policy.
• June 26, 2025 Informational Meeting Presentation – A recording and slide deck from the informational session outlining the rationale, research, and implementation plan.
You can access these resources on our district website here:
👉 [https://www.atticacsd.org/page/cell-phone-policy]
We are committed to working collaboratively with students, families, and staff to ensure a smooth implementation this fall. Our school leaders will be sharing additional information in the coming weeks, including procedures for securing devices during the school day and how we will support students in adapting to this change.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership in creating a school environment where every student can thrive. If you have questions or would like to speak with a building administrator about the policy, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kiel Illg
Superintendent of Schools
Attica Central School District
We’re proud to announce that Attica Central Schools District has been named a School of Excellence for the 2024-25 school year by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.
To be recognized as a school of excellence, 75% of a district’s varsity sports teams must achieve the Scholar-Athlete Team Award during their respective sports seasons.
Varsity sports teams are recognized as Scholar-Athlete Teams when the top 75% of its roster collectively earns an average GPA of 90% or greater.
“Congratulations to our Schools of Distinction and Excellence,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “These prestigious honors represent the culmination of a school year marked by outstanding achievement in the classroom. These accolades would not be possible without the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the student-athletes, coaches, and administrators whose efforts these awards proudly recognize.”
This year, 221 of the state’s more than 700 school districts earned the School of Excellence Award across New York.
Congratulations to our student athletes!
To be recognized as a school of excellence, 75% of a district’s varsity sports teams must achieve the Scholar-Athlete Team Award during their respective sports seasons.
Varsity sports teams are recognized as Scholar-Athlete Teams when the top 75% of its roster collectively earns an average GPA of 90% or greater.
“Congratulations to our Schools of Distinction and Excellence,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “These prestigious honors represent the culmination of a school year marked by outstanding achievement in the classroom. These accolades would not be possible without the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the student-athletes, coaches, and administrators whose efforts these awards proudly recognize.”
This year, 221 of the state’s more than 700 school districts earned the School of Excellence Award across New York.
Congratulations to our student athletes!
Public Comment Period – 2025–2026 District-Wide School Safety Plan
In compliance with New York State Education Law §2801-a, the Attica Central School District has made the 2025–2026 District-Wide School Safety Plan available for public review and comment.
The District-Wide School Safety Plan is designed to prevent or minimize the effects of serious violent incidents and emergencies, and to facilitate the coordination of school and community resources in the event of such situations.
🔗 Click the following link to view:https://5il.co/3l5xb
We encourage community members to review the proposed plan and provide feedback during the required 30-day public comment period, which will remain open through August 6, 2025. Comments or questions may be directed to the District Office at sbrudz@atticacsd.org. Your input helps ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff across our district. Thank you for your support and collaboration.
In compliance with New York State Education Law §2801-a, the Attica Central School District has made the 2025–2026 District-Wide School Safety Plan available for public review and comment.
The District-Wide School Safety Plan is designed to prevent or minimize the effects of serious violent incidents and emergencies, and to facilitate the coordination of school and community resources in the event of such situations.
🔗 Click the following link to view:https://5il.co/3l5xb
We encourage community members to review the proposed plan and provide feedback during the required 30-day public comment period, which will remain open through August 6, 2025. Comments or questions may be directed to the District Office at sbrudz@atticacsd.org. Your input helps ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff across our district. Thank you for your support and collaboration.
Public Comment Period – 2025–2026 Code of Conduct:
In accordance with New York State Education Department regulations, the Attica Central School District is making the 2025–2026 Code of Conduct available for public review and comment.
We invite members of our school community to review the proposed Code of Conduct using the link below. Community input is an essential part of this annual process, and we welcome your feedback prior to its anticipated adoption by the
Board of Education.
🔗 Click the following link to view: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/2319/ACSD/5848228/2025-2026_Code_of_Conduct.pdf
Public comment will be accepted through August 6, 2025. Comments or questions may be directed to the District Office at 585-591-0400 ext. 1000 or by contacting District Clerk Laurie Schmidbauer by email at lschmidbauer@atticacsd.org
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
In accordance with New York State Education Department regulations, the Attica Central School District is making the 2025–2026 Code of Conduct available for public review and comment.
We invite members of our school community to review the proposed Code of Conduct using the link below. Community input is an essential part of this annual process, and we welcome your feedback prior to its anticipated adoption by the
Board of Education.
🔗 Click the following link to view: https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/2319/ACSD/5848228/2025-2026_Code_of_Conduct.pdf
Public comment will be accepted through August 6, 2025. Comments or questions may be directed to the District Office at 585-591-0400 ext. 1000 or by contacting District Clerk Laurie Schmidbauer by email at lschmidbauer@atticacsd.org
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Exciting News About Student Transportation for 2025-2026! We’re looking ahead to the 2025-2026 school year with some important updates to share! Beginning this fall, Student Transportation of America Inc. will officially take over the transportation contracts for our non-public and special education student runs. Student Transportation of America Inc. is thrilled to join the Attica Central School District community and can’t wait to meet our amazing students and families! Right now, Student Transportation of America Inc. is hard at work planning and routing all runs. Families can expect final route information to be released between August 16–18. You’ll also receive details about: Pick-up and drop-off times Centralized pick-up and drop-off locations (only applicable to selected non-public students) Note: Centralized pick-up does not apply to special education students. All special education transportation will remain door-to-door to support student needs. Information on the SAFE STOP app — which uses GPS technology to give parents peace of mind by tracking the bus in real time! While we’re excited about this next chapter, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Attica Bus Service Inc. for over 50 years of dedicated service to our school district. A special thank you goes to Ralph Marvin, who not only served as a contractor but also wore many hats over the years, including serving as the district’s Transportation Expediter. Your commitment to our students will always be appreciated! We understand that change can bring both excitement and a little nervous energy, but please know, you’re in great hands. We’re committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and smooth transition between the two companies. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to Meaghan Matuszak, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations. Here’s to a great school year ahead! #AtticaCSD #StudentTransportationUpdate #ThankYouAtticaBus #WelcomeStudentTransportationOfAmerica #SafeTravels
As we move through the summer months, we wanted to share a few useful community updates:
Local Summer Food Resources: We’ve put together a handy quick-reference list of community food supports—perfect to share with anyone in need.
Perry Farmers Market — EBT Match: Families can use their EBT card at the Perry Farmers Market and receive a dollar-for-dollar match—doubling the purchasing power on fresh, local produce.
A big thank you goes out to our school social worker, Tricia Janes, for compiling these vital resources, thinking of our community and keeping summer support front of mind. You’re helping families make the most of these opportunities!
Local Summer Food Resources: We’ve put together a handy quick-reference list of community food supports—perfect to share with anyone in need.
Perry Farmers Market — EBT Match: Families can use their EBT card at the Perry Farmers Market and receive a dollar-for-dollar match—doubling the purchasing power on fresh, local produce.
A big thank you goes out to our school social worker, Tricia Janes, for compiling these vital resources, thinking of our community and keeping summer support front of mind. You’re helping families make the most of these opportunities!
We’re looking ahead to the 2025-2026 school year with some important updates to share!
Beginning this fall, Student Transportation of America Inc. will officially take over the transportation contracts for our non-public and special education student runs.
Student Transportation of America Inc. is thrilled to join the Attica Central School District community and can’t wait to meet our amazing students and families!
Right now, Student Transportation of America Inc. is hard at work planning and routing all runs. Families can expect final route information to be released between August 16–18. You’ll also receive details about:
• Pick-up and drop-off times
• Centralized pick-up and drop-off locations (only applicable to selected non-public students. Also, please note that centralized pick-up does not apply to special education students. All special education transportation will remain door-to-door to support student needs.
• Information on the SAFE STOP app — which uses GPS technology to give parents peace of mind by tracking the bus in real time!
While we’re excited about this next chapter, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Attica Bus Service Inc. for over 50 years of dedicated service to our school district. A special thank you goes to Ralph Marvin, who not only served as a contractor but also wore many hats over the years — including serving as the district’s Transportation Expediter. Your commitment to our students will always be appreciated!
We understand that change can bring both excitement and a little nervous energy — but please know, you’re in great hands. We’re committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and smooth transition between the two companies.
If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to Meaghan Matuszak, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations.
Here’s to a great school year ahead!
Beginning this fall, Student Transportation of America Inc. will officially take over the transportation contracts for our non-public and special education student runs.
Student Transportation of America Inc. is thrilled to join the Attica Central School District community and can’t wait to meet our amazing students and families!
Right now, Student Transportation of America Inc. is hard at work planning and routing all runs. Families can expect final route information to be released between August 16–18. You’ll also receive details about:
• Pick-up and drop-off times
• Centralized pick-up and drop-off locations (only applicable to selected non-public students. Also, please note that centralized pick-up does not apply to special education students. All special education transportation will remain door-to-door to support student needs.
• Information on the SAFE STOP app — which uses GPS technology to give parents peace of mind by tracking the bus in real time!
While we’re excited about this next chapter, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Attica Bus Service Inc. for over 50 years of dedicated service to our school district. A special thank you goes to Ralph Marvin, who not only served as a contractor but also wore many hats over the years — including serving as the district’s Transportation Expediter. Your commitment to our students will always be appreciated!
We understand that change can bring both excitement and a little nervous energy — but please know, you’re in great hands. We’re committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and smooth transition between the two companies.
If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to Meaghan Matuszak, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations.
Here’s to a great school year ahead!
Congratulations, Attica Class of 2025!
Your hard work has served you well the past 13 years and we have no doubt it will bring you to ever greater heights in the future.
Wherever life takes you, know that we’ll be rooting for you and that you’ll always be a Blue Devil!
More photos over on our Facebook page at the link below.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=100057106403663&set=a.1239067731340095
REMINDER: T-minus 1 hour until graduation!
The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. in our Performing Arts Center, 3338 East Main St.
If you can’t make it, we’ll be livestreaming the ceremony on ‘The Attica Stream Team’ Facebook page at the link below.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070534411251
Our final Attica All-Star of the school year is Mrs. Carin Krawczyk, who’s retiring after more than 3 decades of service to our district and students!
“While I’m excited that Carin is able to retire after so many years of service to the school district, I am sad to see her go,” said Elementary Principal Sherry Bennett. “When I transitioned to the elementary school, she was such an amazing support and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Carin really helps to keep the ship afloat and is able to balance all the needs of our school. It has always been reassuring to know that when someone came to the school or called, it was Carin who would greet them and point them in the right direction.”
Sue Wangelin, a 2nd grade teacher, called Krawczyk “one-of-a-kind.”
“She is accepting of everyone's different, big personalities within the building and treats everyone with respect,” said Wangelin. “When you go into the office in the morning, you will find students receiving their morning hugs and words of encouragement. That says a lot about the kind of person she is and is a great way for our students to start their day.”
Sarah Stenson, a STEAM teacher down on Prospect Street, said Krawczyk is “the heart and soul of our elementary school.”
“Carin’s fun-loving spirit, compassion, and unwavering passion have left a lasting impression on every child she has helped, colleague she has supported, and moment she has brightened. She has a special way of making each child feel seen and loved, and is often the ‘Mama K’ that they may need at that very moment,” said Stenson. “Carin will be deeply missed. She has been a source of strength, comfort, and joy for countless children, families, and staff members. We are so grateful for her dedication, love, and the legacy of care she leaves behind. Our school community is better because of her, and so are all of us who have had the honor to work alongside her!”
Thank you, Mrs. Krawczyk, for your dedication to our district and students and congratulations on your retirement!
Few shots from field day down on Prospect Street from earlier this week.
More over on our Facebook page at the link below.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=100057106403663&set=a.1238644898049045
Mrs. Cheryl Allein met up with some of her former third graders yesterday during our seniors’ trip to Attica Elementary - boy does time fly!
All the feels yesterday down at Attica Elementary.
Last day as elementary schoolers for our 4th graders, last day of work for Mrs. Krawczyk, last day of school for all our other kiddos - can you blame us?!
More photos over on our Facebook page at the link below.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=100057106403663&set=a.1238469884733213
And that's a wrap on our senior spotlights!
Thank you for following along with us these past few days and congratulations to all our seniors!
After their senior parade through our middle and high schools yesterday morning, members of our Class of 2025 headed down to Attica Elementary where they reunited with their kindergarten buddies from Elf Day earlier this school year.
Kindergarteners accompanied our seniors as they walked the stage of our multi-purpose room to tell our elementary schoolers their future plans.
Our kiddos loved hearing where our seniors are headed!
A special shout out to Emma Spink, whose totally real and not at all made up acceptance to Harvard University drew some particularly enthusiastic applause from our students!
Few shots from our 6th grade track meet yesterday out on the turf!
Heat, rain, didn't matter. These kids wanted to compete!
