By Mark McQueen, Superintendent
Bay District Schools is about so much more than reading, writing, and arithmetic. At the heart of our success is the dedicated group of individuals who make up our Team of Teams—the real driving force behind everything we do. The people make BDS unique from the moment students step on the bus to the meals they eat, the clean classrooms they enter, and the warm smiles that greet them. This October, we have the opportunity to celebrate many of these unsung heroes and recognize their contributions to putting the “A” back in Bay.
October is full of recognition opportunities for those who play vital roles in our district. It’s National School Custodians Month, and there’s no better time to show appreciation for the men and women who work behind the scenes to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming. Our custodians are the backbone of our schools, ensuring that students can focus on learning in a sanitary and inviting environment.
We’re incredibly proud of our partnership with Chautauqua Learn and Serve Charter School. Through this partnership, adults with special needs can participate in on-the-job training, learning the skills necessary to become custodians and fulfill other support roles. Even more remarkable is the mentorship provided by our custodial staff, who have taken these individuals under their wing, offering guidance, training, and friendship. It’s inspiring to see our team members step up meaningfully, helping these adults grow and thrive in their new roles.
October also brings National School Bus Safety Week, and we want to take a moment to celebrate our more than 200 BDS Transportation Department employees. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure that our students arrive at school and return home safely every day. Whether behind the wheel, maintaining our buses, or managing logistics, their dedication to safety is unwavering. They are a critical part of our team, and we couldn’t serve our students without them.
In addition, October is National School Lunch Week, and we’d like to give a massive shout-out to our partners at Chartwells K12. Their dedication to providing our students with healthy, nutritious, and appealing meals is unmatched. Their work goes far beyond just serving food—they ensure that our students have the fuel they need to excel in their academics and beyond.
Lastly, we observe National Principals Month in October, a perfect time to honor the hardworking leaders at the helm of our schools. Principals provide the vision, leadership, and support that make our schools exceptional. They guide their staff and students, setting the tone for excellence and ensuring our schools are safe, welcoming, and conducive to learning. We simply couldn’t do what we do without their leadership.
October is a time to celebrate those who make our district special. The heart and soul of these team members truly set Bay District Schools apart. Together, we’re putting the “A” back in Bay.
