NY Inspires is here and rolling in Lockport Schools! What does this mean? Check out this video for more info!
🎥 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KozXjJtRVY
No time to watch the video? OK...we will tell you here 😉
Launched by the New York State Education Department, "NY Inspires" is a statewide effort to reimagine what learning looks like for today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce. It moves beyond one-size-fits-all measures and focuses on real skills: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and preparedness for life after graduation.
Lockport City School District is proud to share this important work with our community as we continue building strong, future-ready opportunities for our students.
For more information and updates along the way, visit our website at lockportschools.org/nyinspires!
🎥 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KozXjJtRVY
No time to watch the video? OK...we will tell you here 😉
Launched by the New York State Education Department, "NY Inspires" is a statewide effort to reimagine what learning looks like for today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce. It moves beyond one-size-fits-all measures and focuses on real skills: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and preparedness for life after graduation.
Lockport City School District is proud to share this important work with our community as we continue building strong, future-ready opportunities for our students.
For more information and updates along the way, visit our website at lockportschools.org/nyinspires!
American Sign Language Classes beginning Thursdays, February 5 - March 5 (no session February 19) at 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Introduction to American Sign Language, free beginner level lessons at LCSD Family Empowerment Center, 57 Canal Street, suite 102, Lockport.
Open to ALL LCSD Students, Parents, Caregivers, Staff and Community. Find out more: https://www.lockportschools.org/o/lcsd/page/event-registration
Introduction to American Sign Language, free beginner level lessons at LCSD Family Empowerment Center, 57 Canal Street, suite 102, Lockport.
Open to ALL LCSD Students, Parents, Caregivers, Staff and Community. Find out more: https://www.lockportschools.org/o/lcsd/page/event-registration
The Lockport City School District is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the third annual “Women Who ROAR” awards!
These awards, which stand for "Recognizing Outstanding Achievements and Resilience," honor incredible women in our community who have exhibited outstanding achievements, community impact, and resilience.
Nominate someone today! The deadline is Friday, February 20, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. You can find the nomination form here: lockportschools.org/womenwhoroar
Award recipients will be announced in the beginning of March 2026. Honorees will be recognized at the Women Who ROAR Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Lockport High School. (Of course it's during Women's History Month, too). Let’s recognize and celebrate leadership, advocacy, and community service!
These awards, which stand for "Recognizing Outstanding Achievements and Resilience," honor incredible women in our community who have exhibited outstanding achievements, community impact, and resilience.
Nominate someone today! The deadline is Friday, February 20, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. You can find the nomination form here: lockportschools.org/womenwhoroar
Award recipients will be announced in the beginning of March 2026. Honorees will be recognized at the Women Who ROAR Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Lockport High School. (Of course it's during Women's History Month, too). Let’s recognize and celebrate leadership, advocacy, and community service!
Join the LCSD Family Empowerment Center for a Neurodiversity Workshop for Families — offered virtually or in person!
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In this supportive and inclusive workshop, parents and caregivers will:
✔️ Learn about neurodiversity
✔️ Develop effective behavioral strategies
✔️ Strengthen family communication
Click here for more information and to register: https://www.lockportschools.org/o/lcsd/page/event-registration.
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In this supportive and inclusive workshop, parents and caregivers will:
✔️ Learn about neurodiversity
✔️ Develop effective behavioral strategies
✔️ Strengthen family communication
Click here for more information and to register: https://www.lockportschools.org/o/lcsd/page/event-registration.
Family Empowerment Series
https://parentnetworkwny.org/family-empowerment-series-2025/
Audience: Parents and family members
Overview: Participants will learn about special education, IEP development, and effective advocacy while building leadership skills and supportive relationships. Completion of this series provides eligibility to join the WNY Parent Leadership Network.
Virtual Sessions:
Saturday, January 17: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Thursday evenings, 6:00–8:00 p.m.: January 22, January 29, February 12, February 26, and March 12
Saturday, February 28: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Independent Study: Completion of a simple advocacy project
Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GP6DX7K
https://parentnetworkwny.org/family-empowerment-series-2025/
Audience: Parents and family members
Overview: Participants will learn about special education, IEP development, and effective advocacy while building leadership skills and supportive relationships. Completion of this series provides eligibility to join the WNY Parent Leadership Network.
Virtual Sessions:
Saturday, January 17: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Thursday evenings, 6:00–8:00 p.m.: January 22, January 29, February 12, February 26, and March 12
Saturday, February 28: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Independent Study: Completion of a simple advocacy project
Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GP6DX7K
Interested in playing JV or Varsity Football during the 2026-2027 season? Come to the mandatory meeting!
When: January 6th, 2026
Time: 2:45 -3:30
Where: LHS CAFE 170
Who: All athletes that are interested in playing during the 2026/2027 Season.
Any Question? Please reach out to Coach Smith: Tsmith@lockportschools.net.
When: January 6th, 2026
Time: 2:45 -3:30
Where: LHS CAFE 170
Who: All athletes that are interested in playing during the 2026/2027 Season.
Any Question? Please reach out to Coach Smith: Tsmith@lockportschools.net.
Anna Merritt celebrated the 67th day of school in style last week!
Attention: Board of Education approved updates to the district’s 2025–26 school calendar at last night’s Board meeting. Please review the following important changes:
Friday, January 2, 2026 is now designated as a winter recess day. There will be no school for students on this date.
Friday, March 13, 2026, which was previously scheduled as a Superintendent’s Conference Day, will now be a regular school day for all students.
Friday, January 2, 2026 is now designated as a winter recess day. There will be no school for students on this date.
Friday, March 13, 2026, which was previously scheduled as a Superintendent’s Conference Day, will now be a regular school day for all students.
These Aaron Mossell JHS students were recognized by their Team Leaders for demonstrating excellence during the month. Your hard work, dedication, and positive impact don’t go unnoticed - congratulations to all! #WeAllBelong
At Anna Merritt, Mrs. Santana’s Reading Buddy Program is helping students build confidence and a love of reading - one stuffed animal at a time! Students pick a plush “reading partner” and read aloud in a cozy, no-pressure space that makes the library feel even more welcoming.
Our George Southard Elementary teachers are getting into the holiday spirit! 🎄
Thanks to the Health & Wellness Committee, elves are on the loose around the school, and staff have been spotting them while wearing their coziest Christmas sweaters. Check out the photos of the winners showing off their festive sweaters and elf-spotting skills!
Thanks to the Health & Wellness Committee, elves are on the loose around the school, and staff have been spotting them while wearing their coziest Christmas sweaters. Check out the photos of the winners showing off their festive sweaters and elf-spotting skills!
FREE Winter Coats for Families & Community!
LHS intern at Family Empowerment Center (FEC), Zara is hard at work preparing for the upcoming coat drive. Our Lockport community continues to show what it truly means to take care of one another. The FEC, in partnership with Coats4Kids, is proud to host our annual FREE Winter Coat Giveaway to help families stay warm this season.
Pick Up Dates & Times:
🗓 Friday, December 5 | 1:00 – 5:00 PM
🗓 Saturday, December 6 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Lock City Center
2 Locks Plaza (former Friendly’s building)
This is what community looks like - neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families.
LHS intern at Family Empowerment Center (FEC), Zara is hard at work preparing for the upcoming coat drive. Our Lockport community continues to show what it truly means to take care of one another. The FEC, in partnership with Coats4Kids, is proud to host our annual FREE Winter Coat Giveaway to help families stay warm this season.
Pick Up Dates & Times:
🗓 Friday, December 5 | 1:00 – 5:00 PM
🗓 Saturday, December 6 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Lock City Center
2 Locks Plaza (former Friendly’s building)
This is what community looks like - neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families.
Whether you’re just beginning to navigate special education services or you’ve been part of the IEP process for years, there’s always something new to learn.
Join us for a FREE virtual workshop focused on helping families better understand and support their child’s role in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Participants will learn how to:
• Meaningfully engage in IEP and CSE meetings
• Build and support their child’s self-determination skills
• Use practical tools and resources to encourage student involvement
• Learn from real family experiences to strengthen their process
📅 December 11th
🕕 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Via Zoom
🎓 CTLE Credits Available
This session is designed for families who are new to the process and those who want a helpful refresher — because there’s always more to grow and learn.
* Make sure to register here: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Questions? 716-332-4170 | info@parentnetworkwny.org
Join us for a FREE virtual workshop focused on helping families better understand and support their child’s role in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Participants will learn how to:
• Meaningfully engage in IEP and CSE meetings
• Build and support their child’s self-determination skills
• Use practical tools and resources to encourage student involvement
• Learn from real family experiences to strengthen their process
📅 December 11th
🕕 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Via Zoom
🎓 CTLE Credits Available
This session is designed for families who are new to the process and those who want a helpful refresher — because there’s always more to grow and learn.
* Make sure to register here: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Questions? 716-332-4170 | info@parentnetworkwny.org
LCSD held their annual ENL Family Night in the LHS Cafeteria last week. K-12 families had the opportunity to receive information about the district, resources available to families and academic expectations at the various levels. Hands-on activities were provided for younger students and many secondary level students volunteered. A delicious meal was enjoyed by all. We are one!
Students from Aaron Mossell JHS and Emmet Belknap Intermediate competed in the Pageturners competition and they tied for FIRST PLACE! PageTurners is a literature-based competition for students in grades 3-12. Teams compete in a round-robin format with nearby schools, and division winners advance to a regional competition. We are so proud of their teamwork, enthusiasm, and love for reading. Way to represent LCSD!
Happy Thanksgiving! As we gather with family and friends, we are incredibly grateful for the wonderful students, supportive families, and dedicated staff who make our school community feel like home. Your hard work, kindness, and dedication inspire us every day.
There will be No School during our Thanksgiving Break:
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Friday, November 28, 2025
Wishing you all a warm and joyful Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and togetherness!
There will be No School during our Thanksgiving Break:
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Friday, November 28, 2025
Wishing you all a warm and joyful Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and togetherness!
🧥 FREE Winter Coats for Families & Community! The Lockport City School District Family Empowerment Center, in partnership with Coats4Kids, is proud to host their annual FREE Winter Coat Giveaway to help our families stay warm this season.
Dates & Times:
• Friday, December 5 from 1:00 – 5:00 PM
• Saturday, December 6 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Lock City Center
2 Locks Plaza (The old Friendly's building)
✅ Any of our Lockport school families and community members are welcome to pick out coats
✅ Many sizes available
⚠️ While supplies last. First come, first served.
This is what community looks like ! Neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families. See you next week! 💙💛
Dates & Times:
• Friday, December 5 from 1:00 – 5:00 PM
• Saturday, December 6 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Lock City Center
2 Locks Plaza (The old Friendly's building)
✅ Any of our Lockport school families and community members are welcome to pick out coats
✅ Many sizes available
⚠️ While supplies last. First come, first served.
This is what community looks like ! Neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families. See you next week! 💙💛
Charles Upson students are busy shopping at PawMart! 🐾
With their hard-earned Desk-Pet Dollars, students pick out food and new “friends” to add to their Desk-Pet habitats. They calculate their totals, pay the weekly cashier, and even figure out their own change. The Banker records each transaction, all under the watchful eye of PawMart Manager, Mrs. Newman.
With their hard-earned Desk-Pet Dollars, students pick out food and new “friends” to add to their Desk-Pet habitats. They calculate their totals, pay the weekly cashier, and even figure out their own change. The Banker records each transaction, all under the watchful eye of PawMart Manager, Mrs. Newman.
LHS hosted its DECA Installation Ceremony, celebrating the newest group of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs!
Keynote speakers Malik Harden, LHS DECA Alumni ’14, and Dr. Mathis Calvin II, Superintendent of Schools, shared their wisdom, experiences, and encouragement as our DECA students step into a year of growth, leadership, and opportunity.
Congratulations to all who were installed - your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see what you create!
Keynote speakers Malik Harden, LHS DECA Alumni ’14, and Dr. Mathis Calvin II, Superintendent of Schools, shared their wisdom, experiences, and encouragement as our DECA students step into a year of growth, leadership, and opportunity.
Congratulations to all who were installed - your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see what you create!
LHS Principal Dawn Wylke has been nominated for the 2025 WNY Influential Female Leader Award!
This honor celebrates leaders who collaborate, connect, and lift others higher and if you know Mrs. Wylke, you know she does all that and more. She leads with heart, vision, courage, and the kind of positivity that inspires everyone around her.
Please join us in giving her the biggest Lion-sized congratulations!
This honor celebrates leaders who collaborate, connect, and lift others higher and if you know Mrs. Wylke, you know she does all that and more. She leads with heart, vision, courage, and the kind of positivity that inspires everyone around her.
Please join us in giving her the biggest Lion-sized congratulations!
