December 20, 2004

Dear Students, Staff and Families:

The December holiday has different meaning to members of our school community. For me it's a time for family, friends, and faith. It's a celebration of the gifts we exchange to express our appreciation for life's bounty. I am also grateful for the opportunity and privilege of being a part of the Duaneburg Central School District. Our people are our greatest resource - students, faculty, support staff, families, administrators and our community at large. 

I know that we can all get caught up in the daily nuances of life and sometimes lose sight of the serious struggles that some families have to deal with. For example, there are families in our district that have to handle serious economic problems or the prospect of servicemen and women abroad. We have the advantage (in a smaller district) of often knowing about these special circumstances. I have been so impressed with the support offered by our staff, students and neighbors. Suffice it to say that we have a very giving and caring town.

Many of you may know that my wife and I have recently purchased a new home out of the district. This was a very difficult decision for us because we love our home in Quaker Street. I had to face the reality that after 32 years of marriage, living apart during most of the week is something that we do not want to continue. I appreciate the understanding of the School Board in allowing me to make this change. As much as I love my job, my family remains our number one priority. I have heard some "tongue and cheek" comments made about my calling snow days from afar. I do not think that should be a problem, but there is a temptation to follow the Columbia County weather schedule. They certainly have many more delays and closings than the "hearty stock" in Duanesburg.

As I was penning the closing remarks Mrs. Ordon's Select Chorus just stopped by to serenade us in song. They finished their set with Joy to the World. At this moment life looks very good…

Have a happy holiday! 

Sincerely,
Mark Villanti, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

December 20, 2004

Dear Students, Staff and Families:

This morning I woke up and the wind had blown our front door open. Fortunately, we have a medium-sized house and within a short time the house was toasty. This morning was the coldest day of this winter so far. Unfortunately, when I arrived at work this morning I learned that last night two relay switches that monitor heat to areas of the High/Middle School burnt out. Kenny Vanderwerker, Operations & Maintenance Director, arrived at 2 AM and restored heat to the building. The boilers are working fine. Unlike a home, a school facility can take longer to return to its normal temperature. Many students and staff wore coats until their classrooms warmed up. 

I have personally checked every cold area of the Middle/High School and temperatures are now normal. We have bled air out of some of the lines, which has also helped. The first cold weather tends to cause problems. I appreciate the couple of parents who called me directly. If students experience any discomfort in school please direct them to the main office. I was told some students dressed in tee shirts to school, which is not wise this time of year.

In closing, our furnace is working normally. It is regrettable that we had a mechanical problem last night that resulted in parts of the building being cold for a good part of the day. I can assure you that we handled the problem as expeditiously as possible and that our teachers and students benefited from being in school. I appreciate your understanding.

Have a happy holiday! 

Sincerely,
Mark Villanti, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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