A Message from Superintendent Alicea & Board President Sojewicz

This past weekend we lost another former student to gun violence in our community when a 19-year old Institute of Technology graduate was shot and killed.  That loss, coupled with the unrest throughout our country and right here in Syracuse as a result of the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, has many of us outraged.  Our community that we all love is in pain.

I want you to know that we are here for you and your children.  Our teachers, administrators, social workers, counselors, psychologists and entire staff are here to support you and provide assistance in any way that we can.  In the Syracuse City School District, we believe the diversity of our students, families and staff is a strength of our district and we believe in equity and ensuring opportunities for all.  We will do everything we can to make these beliefs become truths.

In order to be the best and most inclusive, we have to recognize that racism is very real and that many of you experience it.  We have to stand up against it and not remain silent when we see it no matter who we are or what our role is in this community.  We must become the positive change needed to ensure everyone is safe and cared for.

Our staff will be continuing to dialogue with your children regarding the events both locally and nationally.  It is important that they have a safe place to talk about their feelings and the change they want to see.  Please encourage this dialogue and continue it with your children.

If you need anything, please contact your child’s school principal and they can assist you or call our Student Support Service hotline at 315-435-4146.