5th Grade Academy
George Fischer Middle School is starting a new 5th Grade Academy. Learn all about it here.
Welcome to the Carmel Central School District!
I am honored to lead a district deeply committed to student success, community connection, and continuous growth.
At the heart of our work is a clear and inspiring vision: We embrace individuality, provide opportunities for students to discover and pursue their passions, and ignite a desire to learn. This vision guides every decision we make and reflects our belief that each child brings unique strengths and potential to our schools. MORE
-Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben, Interim Superintendent of Schools
Board of Education Meeting
Public Participation will begin at 6:00 p.m.
Board of Education Meeting
Public Participation will begin at 6:00 p.m.
George Fischer Middle School is starting a new 5th Grade Academy. Learn all about it here.
At Carmel High School’s 95th annual commencement, 359 members of the Class of 2025 celebrated their achievements while a crowd of more than 2,000 family and friends cheered them on at the school’s athletic field.
Principal Brian Piazza spoke of all the contributions members of the class have made to the community.
“This is an outstanding collection of young people, who have achieved so much during their four years at Carmel High School,” he said. “Individually, you’ve been recognized on the local, state and national levels for your accomplishments in academics, the arts, athletics, and service to our community. Collectively, this Senior Class has made our school and community a better place, through their leadership, caring, and dedication to the values instilled in them by their families and the Carmel Central School District.”
This year’s class as a lot ahead of it: 207 graduates are going to fpur-year-college; 48 graduates are going to two-year-college; 17 graduates are going to trade school; 27 graduates are entering the work force; 4 graduates are taking a gap year; 16 graduates are entering the military; and some haven’t decided what to do yet.
Together, the class earned more than $5 million in scholarships.
Valedictorian Chase Yom, Salutatorian Kayleigh Harney and Senior Class President Jake Patino delivered addresses thanking their families and teachers for their support and love during their educational journeys.
“Take what Carmel has given you and shape the world with it whatever way you can,” Chase told his fellow graduates.
The graduations at George Fischer Middle School were a celebration of the eighth graders who have grown tremendously since they entered the school just a few years ago.
“I have watched you become the change agents,” said Principal Dr. Merica Neufville. “I can’t wait to see how you change Carmel High School and the Carmel Community.”
The middle school graduated in two programs – one at 1:30 and the next at 4 p.m. -- so that the auditorium could accommodate the supportive families who came to cheer the students’ success.
“This is the end of a chapter we have written together,” said Ava Hall, GO President.
Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben, the Interim Superintendent of Schools, said she looked forward to seeing what the students accomplish in the next chapter.
“High school is a time of discovery, challenge and growth,” Dr. Fairben said. “It is a time to try new things, to meet new people. It is a time to find out what you are capable of.”
Board of Education Trustee Jason Paraskeva told the crowd that he graduated from George Fischer Middle School 41 years ago and that his son was graduating this year.
“To stand here both as a trustee and as a parent is an experience I will cherish forever,” he said.
Then he noted how much had changed in those four decades and encouraged the graduates to embrace their future.
“What hasn’t changed is how much the people around you matter,” Trustee Paraskeva said. “Walk forward with courage. The road ahead is full of possibilities.”
Seven-year-old Camryn ran through the aisles at the Kent Public Library searching for science books. Her search was part of a scavenger hunt that the librarians devised to show children from Kent Primary School all the different types of books the library holds.
“Science is nonfiction,” Camryn, a first grader, said. “I know what nonfiction is because cartoons are fiction, but nonfiction is real. Science is real, they do tests on animals.”
Kent Library welcomed the classes from Kent Primary School one day recently and had a set of outdoor and indoor activities designed to show how much fun visiting the library can be.
“We are trying to show them how many resources are in the library and all the interesting programs and activities that the library offers,” said Christine DiTota, a children’s librarian.
First Grade Teacher Corinne Phillips said the library trip reinforced a lot of what students are learning in their Core Knowledge Language Arts, or CKLA, program
“We just learned about nonfiction,” Phillips said. "With CKLA, they are getting introduced to a lot of information and knowledge that is pretty incredible for the first grade.”
Carmel Central School District elementary schools encourage parents to take their children to the library to get their own library card.
“We have a contest,” Phillips said. “The first class in which everyone gets a library card is rewarded with an extra recess -- with ice pops.”
Carmel High School seniors enrolled in AP Literature and WCC 101/102 had the unique opportunity to see The Great Gatsby live on Broadway. As part of their study of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, students were able to witness the text come to life on stage—an unforgettable field trip! From the roaring twenties' glitz to Gatsby's tragic pursuit of the American Dream, the experience helped bring the story to life. Students were dazzled by the whole Broadway experience, from the musical numbers to the stunning costumes and set design.
CHS English teacher Kristin McKenna said "Seeing the musical on Broadway and watching students react to scenes we read in class being performed on stage was an unforgettable experience. It's a reminder of how powerful it can be to connect classroom learning with real world experiences.
Senior Jorja Tompuri said, "I could not take my eyes off the stage and have not stopped listening to the music since!" Thank you to the CHS English Department and chaperones for organizing this memorable experience!
Congratulations to the Carmel Central School District Music Department for being named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAAM Foundation.
This is the 12th time that NAAM (the National Association for Music Merchants) recognized Carmel for its exceptional music education.
“The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education,” the group said.
The music program is excellent throughout the district.
In May, several Carmel High School and George Fischer Middle School groups excelled at NYSSMA majors. All three Carmel High School bands, all three CHS orchestras and the CHS chorus each performed at NYSSMA majors and received gold and silver ratings. The groups went on to play at the Music in the Parks Festival last week and were awarded superior ratings for the second year in a row. The 6th, 7th and 8th grade orchestras also performed well at the NYSSMA majors.
Music education plays a big part even in elementary school, as music teachers lead students in performances for events throughout the year.
Carmel’s music program helps introduce our students to a larger music community. Carmel hosted state and countywide functions this year and brought additional music opportunities to our students. The department sets the groundwork for our students to have a lifetime of music.
Lisa Chase’s second grade class at Kent Primary School proudly presented a delightful Readers Theater musical titled “Stone Soup,” based on the classic folktale.
The students brought the story to life with spirited narration, charming dialogue, and catchy songs that captured the magic of sharing and community. Each child played an important role, whether as a narrator, a villager, or the clever traveler, showcasing their enthusiasm and teamwork. The simple yet heartfelt performance was a wonderful celebration of kindness and cooperation, leaving the audience smiling and inspired.
Juliana Schultz, Kent Primary's retired music teacher, came back to school and volunteered her time as "musical director" to help prepare the students for the production. Schultz and Chase have been collaborating on a musical performance each year since 2012.
After the show, the class came together to celebrate their accomplishments and a wonderful second grade year.
After a fire alarm went off at Carmel High School, investigators came to the scene and found a burned stack of math finals in a garbage pail and a pack of matches.
This was a job for the SUPA Forensics students at Carmel High School.
For their final project, the students had to investigate one of three mock crime scenes in the high school’s Casey Hall. The mock crimes involved arson, a classroom stabbing and money stolen from a safe.
Natalie, a senior, decided to take SUPA (Syracuse University Project Advance) Forensics, after her counselor told her she could earn four college credits.
“I like crime shows, so I thought it would be really cool,” Natalie said. “And it has been great. Today we are processing evidence like it’s an authentic crime scene. Next week, we present it as if we are in a court of law.”
The exercise is the culmination of applying all they have learned in the class, said Eugene Pepe III, who teaches Forensics, SUPA Forensics and Chemistry at the high school.
“This is a very hands-on class," Pepe said. "The only way they learn this is if they do it."
He should know, he’s been a teacher for 22 years.
“They don’t have to solve the crime; they just have to process it,” Pepe said. “They have to collect the evidence, preserve it and document it.”
Investigators from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office came to the class to guide students in how to process crime scene evidence. The presence of three investigators and School Resource Officer Mike Gray certainly gave the mock crime scenes a feeling of legitimacy.
“I think it’s eye-opening for them,” Senior Investigator Randel Hill said. “It brings a real-life perspective to what we do. It’s not like TV.”
Hill was working with students on the mock stabbing incident.
As students gathered around a bloody desk with tape measures in hand, the investigator showed them how to get the most accurate measurements at a crime scene.
“Don’t worry, the blood is not real,” Pepe whispered to an onlooker.
Most seventh graders might spend their lunch periods relaxing and socializing, but not the A Team from Technology Teacher Jeff Naso’s class.
Alissa, Lyndsey and Emma rush to the technology lab during their free periods to help other students create projects with the 3d printer, laser cutter or other high-tech tools.
“We help Mr. Naso with the sixth graders’ projects,” Alissa said.
“It’s so much fun,” said Emma, who always enjoyed making things in art class.
Recently, they also made new signs for some George Fischer Middle School offices.
“The existing wooden guidance office sign has been here for decades,” Counselor Lisa Jackson said. “We are so glad to get an upgrade while also helping the kids who work with Mr. Naso extend their skills.”
Though she’s only 13 years old, Lyndsey said the technology class has made her think about becoming an engineer in the future.
“I might go into engineering,” Lyndsey said. “I’m considering it. It’s a little too early to decide for sure.”
Families who are looking for a tasty meal have a new resource to turn to: The Kent Primary School Community Cookbook.
The book features nearly 50 recipes that range from Irish Soda Bread, to Zeppoles to Chiles Rellenos and Marry Me Chicken.
“A community cookbook in a diverse neighborhood is more than just a collection of recipes – it’s a celebration of culture, connection and shared stories,” said Third Grade Teacher Alison Spunt. “By bringing together dishes from different backgrounds, it fosters inclusion, preserves traditions and builds community pride, all while introducing neighbors to new flavors and traditions.”
Students at Matthew Paterson Elementary School now have another place to find great books to read.
The school just opened a Little Lending Library, which sits right by the main entrance and is open to all.
Teaching Assistant Leslie Maher came up with the idea. She had seen little lending libraries – built like tiny houses on top of a post – and thought it would be great if Matthew Paterson could have one of its own.
“When teachers reorganize their classrooms, they often have a lot of books that they no longer need,” Maher said. “I just thought this would be a great way to make those books available to our students.”
Principal Jenn Darling loved the idea of giving students yet another fun way to fall in love with reading.
“Lots of families come here after school, to the playground or for sports,” Darling said. “Now they can stop and pick up a book. We are happy to do anything that promotes a love of reading.”
But who could build the tiny library?
Diana McDermott, who teaches third and fourth grade at Matthew Paterson, knew just the guy. Her husband, Bill, built both of their homes. She volunteered him.
“He was volun-told,” she joked. “But he didn’t mind. He was happy to build a little library for the school, and he doesn’t do anything half-way. Look at all the detail. It’s really beautiful.”
When Principal Darling cut the ribbon on the Little Lending Library this week, the school already had close to 300 books collected to fill it.
“I just live down the block,” Maher said. “In the summer, I can just stop by and restock it.”
Congratulations to GFMS for earning the designation of a "No Place for Hate" school.
This year-long, student-led effort will help make the middle school an affirming, welcoming and safe learning environment for all. Members of the school's Equity Club went to the city on Tuesday, May 20 to give a presentation on all the work they did to help GFMS become a member of the "No Place for Hate" school community.
See the GFMS No Place for Hate video to find out more about the program.
Voters endorsed the Carmel Central School District Budget Tuesday and elected three new board members to the Board of Education.
The budget passed by a vote of 1290 to 1113. Nicholas Magliano, Frank Grasso and Michael Torpey were elected to the Board of Education.
“I’m so appreciative to the community for supporting students and allowing us to fulfill the mission of the district,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben said. “I also want to welcome the three new Board of Education members Nicholas Magliano, Frank Grasso and Michael Torpey.”
The Board of Education results were:
Nicholas Magliano -- 1390
Frank Grasso -- 1252
Michael Torpey --1255
Prakash Tewari -- 1059
Nathaniel Query -- 740
Board President Melissa Orser said she was grateful that the community approved the budget.
“I want to thank the community for coming out to support our schools,” Board President Orser said. “I also want to thank the administration – both the superintendent of schools and the assistant superintendents – for upholding the board’s focus on fiscal responsibility.”
Any of the students who have been in Tim Raney’s video production or engineering classes at Carmel High School know he is a master of his craft. His attention to detail, thorough understanding of complex subjects and ability to inspire creativity are part of every class he teaches.
Now, even those who haven’t studied with him will recognize his skills. Raney has been selected for the highly competitive New York State Master Teacher Program.
“I applied because I’m passionate about teaching STEM and constantly looking for ways to grow,” he said. “The program offers an incredible opportunity to collaborate with other educators, learn from experts and bring new strategies back to my students and colleagues.”
Raney is now part of a statewide network of educators that was established in 2013 to recognize outstanding K-12 public school STEM teachers and counselors. As a master teacher he becomes part of a community of educators who push each other to grow.
Back in the 1980s members of the Kent Elementary School community wanted to create something that would serve as a tribute to Clifton Watson, the school’s longtime principal.
They created the Clifton Watson Memorial Grove to honor a beloved educator who was a leader in environmental education.
On May 29, the grove will be rededicated in a ceremony at Kent Elementary School at 11 a.m. The public is invited to celebrate the legacy of one of the district’s great school leaders.
The 2025-26 Budget Newsletter has been mailed to residents throughout the Carmel Central School District. You don't, however, have to wait for yours to come in the mail. You can read it right here: 2025-26 Budget Newsletter.
Fourth graders in all three Carmel Central School District elementary schools learned about the American Revolution in a History Day celebration that allowed them to experience life the way soldiers did 250 years ago. They dressed in uniform, marched, drilled and pitched tents.
Colonial and Revolutionary history are part of the fourth-grade curriculum and George Fischer Middle School Social Studies Teacher Keith Reilly and Carmel High School History Teacher Rob Buccheri visited Kent Elementary School, Kent Primary School and Matthew Paterson Elementary School to help bring American history to life for the youngsters.
GFMS Reading Teacher Denise Santalis organized the event and took the fantastic photos.
The 41st Annual Student Art Show at Carmel High School was featured in the local news site Lohud.com. The news site included a video and slideshow of the event, which drew large crowds from throughout the community. Nearly 450 CHS students had their artwork displayed in the show, which featured works in a variety of media, including pottery, graphic arts, painting, drawing and more.
When Lucas, a second grader at Matthew Paterson Elementary School, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, the impact on his family was tremendous.
“Lucas was six months old at the time,” his mother Ashley Martinez said. “He is a twin, we were so worried that his twin brother, Oliver, would develop cancer, too. Our oldest son, Adrian, was just three. It was a very scary time.”
Lucas is cancer-free now. Since his recovery, the family has helped raise money in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life to help find a cure. Lucas has been involved in the Relay since he was two years old, walking and raising money for cancer research.
This year, the Relay for Life of Eastern Putnam will be held at Brewster High School on Saturday, May 31 from 2 to 10 p.m.
The Martinez family will be there along with a team of about 20 family members and friends who call themselves “The Lukey-Dukes.”
“We welcome all friends, families and CCSD staff to join us,” Mrs. Martinez said. “Our team raises money specifically for childhood cancer. At the Relay, we do a dinosaur lap with inflatable costumes. We just try to bring attention to childhood cancer.”
Carmel High School’s 41st Annual Student Art Show will have special evening hours on Thursday, April 10 from 6 - 8 p.m. The show, which features work from about 450 students, will run through Friday, April 11 at noon.
“This year’s show features more hands-on displays for graphics classes,” said Art Teacher Danielle Marino. “Ms. Kenny has been focused on product and packaging design with her classes and she has created beautiful notebooks, bags and gift boxes which can be picked up and examined.”
But that’s not all that’s new this year.
“Several Carmel students participated in the Garrison Art Center's student exhibit,” Ms. Marino said. “The show was last week, and we set up a separate display area for our students to show off their work based on the theme "Exploring Identity.”
The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2025, at the Carmel High School. The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. immediately followed by a 30-minute executive session. The public portion of the meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.
Community members who wish to speak during the public comment section of the Board meeting are asked to sign up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form here: https://forms.office.com/r/SnQBCFWYy8
Board meetings will continue to be live streamed on this page. Committee meetings are open to the public.
Upcoming Board of Education Committee Meetings:
Special Education, Support & Wellness Committee: 2025/2026 School Year
Facilities & Transportation Committee: 2025/2026 School Year
Audit, Finance & Personnel Committee: 2025/2026 School Year
Policy Committee: 06/30/25, 6:30 p.m., Administrative Office, Executive Conference Room
We are transitioning computer systems this summer and the last day we will accept an online registration submission in our current Powerschool Online Registration Portal is July 9th, 2025. The online registration will resume on August 4th in the new system and we will notify the community when it is ready. From July 10, 2025 through August 3, 2025, families will be able to register by submitting a paper registration packet to the schools. Click here for a printable paper Registration Packet in English. Click here for a printable paper Registration Packet in Spanish.
Enjoy the District's newsletter here.
Dear Carmel Community:
Our kindergarten registration for the 2025-26 school year is now open. To qualify, children must be five years old by December 1, 2025 and live within Carmel Central School District boundaries.
Here is the link to the kindergarten registration: New Student Registration - Carmel Central School District.
If you know someone with a kindergarten-aged child, please share this email so they can register the child for school. Thanks!
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Families,
As we approach the upcoming standardized testing period for students in grades 3-8, I want to take a moment to reaffirm our collective commitment to the academic growth and success of all our students.
Standardized testing is a key component of our educational system, providing valuable insights into student learning, the effectiveness of instruction and overall school performance. The data from these assessments helps us tailor teaching strategies to better meet individual student needs and evaluate the strength of our districtwide curriculum.
We understand that standardized testing can bring a range of emotions for students, parents and educators alike. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that the testing experience is as positive and supportive as possible, in alignment with our goal of fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment.
To address concerns about potential stress or anxiety, our district has implemented strategies to create a calm and supportive atmosphere during the testing period. These strategies include clear communication with students about the purpose of the assessments, the provision of helpful resources and guidance on effective test-taking techniques. We encourage open and ongoing dialogue between parents, teachers and students to ensure that we approach the testing process together in a constructive and collaborative way.
Additionally, I would like to stress the importance of student participation in the testing process. The data we gather from these assessments not only highlights areas for growth but also plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the academic standards of our district.
Thank you for your continued dedication to supporting quality education and fostering a positive learning environment within Carmel Central School District. If you have any questions or concerns about the testing process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s principal or the district office.
We truly appreciate your partnership in helping our students thrive.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Dear Carmel Community:
Come discuss the draft Proposed 2025-2026 School Budget with me on Wednesday, February 12, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. in my office at the District Office. Everyone is welcome to just drop in for coffee, conversation and to review the draft budget. If the time doesn't work for you, email me at emeehan@carmelschools.org to schedule a time.
Regards,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community:
I am reaching out today to provide an update on the Town Hall held on January 28 and to keep you apprised of important information from NYSED. I also want to reaffirm our district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student in Carmel feels safe, welcomed and valued.
We had an amazing turnout at last night’s Town Hall meeting at Carmel High School.
More than 75 district residents attended and learned about our strategies to make certain that Carmel schools are welcoming, affirming and safe places for all. After the presentation by District Equity Team members, residents broke into groups and discussed their ideas about our district’s strengths and ways we can improve. We also looked at external opportunities and threats that could prevent the district’s work. Each group then presented their ideas, outlining a framework for the district’s most important next steps.
“I am thrilled by the turnout,” Board of Education President Melissa Orser said. “This was a collaborative assignment. I hope we can take all this information and move our work on equity forward.”
In the coming days, I will compile all the information, share it with the entire Board, meet with my administrative council and immediately focus on improving our schools.
The district continues its commitment to support all our students. We would like to draw your attention to a recent guidance document from the Office of the Governor, Attorney General and State Education Department New York State’s Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students. Our policies and practices are in alignment with this guidance.
Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
As this is a rapidly changing environment, we are working closely with our school attorneys and the New York State Education Department to ensure we have the most current and accurate information. Additionally, we have shared resources with our administrators to support our students and their families during this time.
We are responsible for every child’s educational journey. Please be assured that we in the Carmel schools take that responsibility seriously. All students in the Carmel schools will continue to have access to education that informs, challenges and helps them grow.
I am so grateful to be working in such an engaged, child-focused community.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community:
I would like to update you on the status of our January 28 Town Hall meeting.
When we announced the meeting, we said that it would be a community conversation on diversity, equity and inclusion, and be led by a specialist from U.S. Department of Justice, Community Relations Service.
A lot has changed, however, in the weeks since I sent that announcement. Now, given the Trump administration’s recent ban on DOJ participation in any diversity, equity and inclusion work, there will not be a representative from the DOJ at our meeting.
More than ever, we are now relying on you to join us for the Town Hall. Let’s work together to create a welcoming, affirming and safe environment for all our schools. The meeting will be in the Carmel High School Library on Tuesday, January 28 from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
As planned, our meeting will still include a presentation by the District Equity Team, which will be followed by a breakout session where you will help assess the Carmel Central School District’s strengths and weaknesses.
I really hope to see you there.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
If you like something a CCSD staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to School Superintendent Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben and to the Board of Education President Melissa Orser.
Dear Carmel Community:
After listening to stakeholders throughout the Carmel School Community, I have put together a Leadership Plan that is designed to reflect the mission, vision and core beliefs of the Carmel Central School District.
This plan allows us to maintain District strengths, add revisions to areas in need of improvement, increase opportunities and promote an inclusive environment for all. It will serve as our guiding document as we move forward to make Carmel Schools the best they can be.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Dear Carmel Community,
This is my first Thanksgiving in Carmel since I lived here as a child many decades ago, and I am excited to be back in the community I have always considered home. I want to tell you how grateful I am for the opportunity to serve as your Superintendent of Schools.
As I spend time in our school buildings, I am constantly surprised by the talent, diligence and kindness of our students. They give us so many reasons to be proud. Their success, of course, stems from the dedication and hard work of our teachers and staff. I am grateful to work with such devoted professionals.
Working in a community that shows such support for its schools is another reason I am so glad to be here.
I hope you find space over the long, busy weekend to spend time with friends, family and our great community – things we can all be thankful for.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools