Superintendent
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MAY/JUNE, 2026
I’d like to share a few updates about our District.
School Budget
Since January, the Board of Education has convened twice monthly to develop a budget that both prioritizes student needs and reflects sound fiscal responsibility. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with a group so deeply committed to the future of Copenhagen’s students. The 2026-2027 budget was formally adopted at the April 21 regular meeting. The annual budget vote will take place on Tuesday, May 19, at Copenhagen Central School from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Teacher and Staff Appreciation
May 4 to May 8 marks Teacher Appreciation Week, a time each year dedicated to recognizing the exceptional educators who make a difference in the lives of our students at CCS. At Copenhagen Central School, we are fortunate to have a team of dedicated professionals who consistently rise to meet challenges and remain steadfast in their commitment to providing a high-quality education for every student who walks through our doors. It is through their passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication that our school continues to thrive. I encourage you to take a moment this week to express your appreciation to your child’s teacher.
Equally important is the outstanding support staff who contribute daily to the success of our students. Our transportation team, custodial staff, office professionals, food service department, teaching assistants, and aides each play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment. Together, their efforts, alongside our teaching staff, make Copenhagen Central School a truly exceptional place for students to learn and grow.
Celebrations of Accomplishments
May and June mark a meaningful season in our school calendar, as we come together to celebrate the many accomplishments of our students.
The Academic and Excellence Awards Banquet, recognizing the outstanding academic achievements of students in Grades 9–12, will be held on Friday, May 15, at 1:30 p.m. We will also honor the dedication and success of our student-athletes at the Athletic Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 3, at 5:30 p.m., celebrating their contributions both on and off the field during the 2025–2026 school year.
In addition, many of our BOCES Career and Technical Education students will be recognized for their accomplishments at ceremonies held at South Lewis CSD on June 11 at 9:00 a.m. and at the Watertown Fairgrounds Arena on June 12 at 9:00 a.m.
One of the most cherished traditions of the year, Kindergarten Graduation, will take place on June 24 at 6:00 p.m., marking an important milestone for our youngest learners. The Alumni Banquet is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, followed by the Copenhagen Central School Class of 2026 Commencement Exercises at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, in the main gymnasium.
At that time, we will proudly honor and send off our graduating seniors as they embark on their next journeys—whether to college, technical programs, military service, or the workforce—after 13 years of formal education. I extend my sincere congratulations to each member of the Class of 2026 and wish them continued success as they begin this exciting new chapter in their lives.
As always, thank you for your continued trust and support of our District. We truly appreciate it.
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2026-2027 BUDGET INFORMATION
Dear District Residents,
The 2026-2027 proposed school budget is $12,795,927, an increase of $116,201, or 0.92%. We are proposing a tax levy increase of 2.00%, or $39,048. We are able to balance the budget by appropriating $776,876 of fund balance and $220,000 of reserves.
As many of you are aware, the majority of district revenues are from New York State and Federal aid. We continue to strategically plan expenditures and prioritize curriculum and programming for our students. In addition to that, we must navigate creative ways to responsibly balance our budget, all while striving to maintain the influx of services and supports required to accommodate the needs of our students.
A budget component that is important to be aware of is New York State’s property tax cap law. This is a calculation that establishes a tax levy limit for each school district. The tax levy limit allows school districts to change their property tax levy from one year to the next by two percent, or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. Within the tax cap calculation, the “two percent” may increase or decrease with inclusions and exclusions. If a proposed tax levy change is within the district’s calculated limit, a simple majority (50% or more) of voters is needed for budget approval. If a proposed tax levy change exceeds the tax levy limit, a supermajority of voters (60% or more) would be required for budget approval.
The district’s calculated tax cap this year is -2.4%, which is less than the 2.00% levy increase that the district has requested voters to approve to support the budget this year.
The 2026-2027 Annual Budget Review meeting is on May 5, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the school cafeteria. There will be an opportunity to ask questions during that time. The budget vote and election will take place at school on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the gym foyer. If you would like an absentee ballot, please notify the District Clerk.
If you have any questions, or would like additional information, please contact the Superintendent’s office at 315-688-4411.
Sincerely,
BOARD OF EDUCATION
COPENHAGEN CENTRAL SCHOOL -
In the event of a school closure or delayed opening, notifications will be provided through ParentSquare, the district website and app, WWNY TV 7, WWTI Newswatch 50, Newzjunky, and NNY360.
Decisions regarding closures or delays are typically made by 6:45 a.m. and communicated promptly to all families.
If your phone number has changed, or if you would like to add an additional number to receive ParentSquare notifications, please contact us.
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REOPENING PLAN LETTER - July 29, 2020
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Coronavirus Informational Letter - March 4, 2020
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Coronavirus Informational Second Letter - March 7, 2020
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Coronavirus Press Release - March 15, 2020
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District Closing Letter - March 16, 2020
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Parent Communication Letter - April 3, 2020
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