Community Update

Dear Blind Brook Families & Friends,

It was wonderful to welcome students, faculty, and staff back after the long holiday break. Classrooms quickly returned to the energy of deep learning through authentic projects like the BMPRSS “Wishing Tree,” the BBMS Startup Studio Capstones, and structured debate and inquiry at BBHS. Our extracurricular programs continue to shine as well, with strong performances from Debate, Model UN, Robotics, and DECA. Across the high school, seniors are also beginning to hear back from colleges and planning their next steps, and we remain proud of the many paths our students pursue.

As we prepare for the first potential major weather event of 2026, we will share an update on Monday’s opening status by Sunday evening, ideally by 7 p.m. While some decisions may ultimately be made Monday morning, we will communicate what we know as early as possible.

I’d also like to share an update on the New York State Universal Free Meals program, a topic we’ve been discussing with families since the summer. At this time, the District is not eligible because participation requires enrollment in the National School Lunch Program. We opted out in 2019 due to increasingly restrictive federal requirements around portions, calories, and ingredients, which are particularly challenging in our shared middle/high school cafeteria and carry compliance and financial risks. Operating independently allows us greater flexibility to meet students’ needs. Importantly, any student with demonstrated financial need continues to receive free meals, and that commitment will not change. Last week, Ms. Baum and I met with interested parents and introduced Chef Bill, our new Food Service Director, along with Aramark’s regional manager. The conversation was collaborative and productive. At this time we are doing a full review of the program and plan to bring a recommendation to the board in the coming months.  In the meantime, Chef Bill is already engaging students and families to strengthen and enhance our current program, and we look forward to sharing menu updates soon.

Our capital project work continues to move steadily forward. The folding gym partitions at RSS and BBHS have been removed and will be replaced with modern dividers this spring. The stadium platform has been rebuilt in preparation for the new press box, new chillers for BBMS/BBHS are currently being manufactured with installation planned for before warmer weather, and bathroom, arts, and technology space upgrades remain on schedule for summer completion. These improvements will provide clean, modern spaces that support student learning and activities.

Finally, while the temperatures are cold, our winter athletes are heating things up across all sports. Winter Homecoming is next week, with competitions and events throughout the week, including Friday night Girls and Boys basketball games. Please look for Sunday’s weekly athletics schedule for all events, and a separate email with ticket information for the basketball games, as they typically sell out quickly. And congratulations to Kendall Konigsberg, named ConEd Scholar Athlete of the Week. Look for her feature coverage on GameDay One and LoHud.

Stay safe and warm this weekend. We hope a little winter weather brings some joy and wonder. Take care of yourselves and each other, and we’ll see you around campus!

Warm Regards,

Brian J. Alm
Superintendent of Schools