Dear Edwards-Knox Families:
Summer has nearly come to an end, and that means we’re approaching another school year full of learning and excitement at Edwards-Knox Central School District! We are eagerly looking forward to seeing every one of our smiling students on the first day of school on Thursday, September 4th. This year, the school day begins for students at 8 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m.
Back-to-School Bash & Ribbon Cutting
To kick off the school year on the right foot, we’d like to remind you that you’re invited to our Back-to-School Bash and Cougar Field House Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, September 2nd. The ribbon cutting begins at 4 p.m., followed by the Back-to-School Bash until 6 p.m. Join us for free school supplies, learn about our community partners and enjoy a free cookout. Students and families will also have an opportunity to meet their teacher(s) and explore their classrooms for the year ahead. We hope to see you there!
New This School Year at E-KCS
Part of our preparations for the 2025-26 school year included finalizing our cell phone free policy, which is the result of a new state law. This year, students will not be allowed to use personal internet-enabled devices (like smartphones, tablets and smartwatches) during the school day. This policy is designed to reduce distractions and help students stay focused. You can read the full policy on our district website.
Our PK-6 teachers will also be implementing a new curriculum, Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA). This is a research-based literacy program. The overall goal is to help improve learning outcomes for our students.
Our student athletes will once again be able to play on our newly-renovated fields behind our school building. With the addition of our E-K Cougar Field House, more convenient restrooms are available for athletes and spectators alike. It also offers outdoor classroom space, allowing teachers to bring lessons to life in new and exciting ways.
Welcome New Faculty & Staff
Please join us in welcoming the following new (and returning) employees to our school community:
- Rebecca Baker, Grade 1 Teacher
- Karen Dandrow, 7-12 Math Teacher (Returning Retiree)
- Grace LePage, 7-12 Counselor
- Kristina Manchester, Social Worker
- James Smith, Custodial Worker
- Molly Wright, 7-12 English Teacher
Edwards-Knox Community Food Pantry
We’d like to welcome you to utilize our Edwards-Knox Community Food Pantry. The pantry is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is also available on weekends by appointment. As a client-choice pantry, you can choose the foods that best fit your family’s needs. For more information, please email Community Schools Site Coordinator Jennifer Hotaling at jhotaling@ekcsk12.org or call (315) 562-8130 ext. 25509.
Any Questions?
If you have any questions as the new school year begins, please reach out to your child’s teacher, me directly or a member of the E-KCS administration:
- Amanda Lyons-Gonyea
7-12 Principal
alyons-gonyea@ekcsk12.org - Lura Hughes
PK-6 Principal
lhughes@ekcsk12.org - Amy Sykes
Director of Student Support & Special Education
asykes@ekcsk12.org
You may also find the answer you are looking for right here on our newly-revamped district website.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to welcoming your children back to school on Thursday, Sept. 4. We wish all of you a positive and successful school year!
Warm regards,
Erin E. Woods
Superintendent of Schools