You may know that in 2019, Canastota was placed on a NYSED list as an identified district in need of improvement. We took this challenge as an opportunity to examine our structures and practices and implement changes to improve student achievement and district performance.
After a tremendous effort to systematically implement K-12 research-based instructional practices, I’m happy to tell you that NYSED has removed us from this list. We are now designated as a Local Supports and Improvement (LSI) district, which is what the state previously referred to as “Good Standing.”
As part of our work to reach this goal, we have been utilizing a number of new initiatives, including a consistent approach to early literacy instruction, restructuring our elementary AIS program, and emphasizing the use of data to inform core instructional and intervention practices.
This is a community that truly values education and keeps our schools at its core. I want to thank all of our staff, families, community members and partner organizations for supporting our work as a district to provide the best possible educational program we can and make Canastota a premier district in the region. We are just now beginning to reap the benefits of the work that is underway, and most importantly, the best is yet to come!
Sincerely,
Shawn Bissetta, Superintendent of Schools