Middle and High School

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,

A new school year always brings a renewed sense of possibility, and we are excited to welcome our students back to Forestville Middle/High School. The first day of school is Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Our faculty and staff have been working hard to prepare for another year of learning, growth, and achievement.

On the first day, I will meet with all students to welcome them back, review important sections of the student handbook, discuss our expectations for a safe and successful school year, and answer any questions they may have. On Wednesday, September 9, students and staff will review our emergency procedures so that everyone understands how to respond safely and confidently should an emergency occur.

We are especially pleased to welcome two Forestville graduates to our faculty this year:

• Ms. Rebecca Thornton joins us as our new art teacher. Rebecca is a Forestville graduate and a longtime resident of our community. We look forward to the creativity, enthusiasm, and local connection she will bring to our students and school.
• Miss Emily Merrill also returns to Forestville as a fully certified music teacher. As a student, Emily was highly involved in our band program. She will now lead that program as the band teacher for our elementary, middle, and high school students.

There is something truly special about welcoming former Forestville students back as educators. We are excited to see Rebecca and Emily share their talents, experiences, and passion with a new generation of Forestville students.

While our students and teachers have been away, our custodial team, led by Mr. Barthel, has been busy preparing the building for their return. From deep cleaning and repairs to painting and countless finishing touches, their hard work helps ensure that our school is clean, safe, and ready for the year ahead. We sincerely appreciate everything they have done throughout the summer.

We remain committed to providing students with meaningful academic opportunities. Participation in Advanced Placement courses and Jamestown Community College classes continues to grow, giving students the opportunity to challenge themselves, explore their interests, and earn college credit while still in high school. These programs reflect both the dedication of our teachers and the willingness of our students to take on increasingly rigorous coursework.

Regular attendance will continue to be one of our most important priorities. Students are most successful when they attend school consistently and arrive on time each day and to every class. Good attendance helps students remain academically engaged, build strong relationships, participate fully in school life, and develop habits that will benefit them well beyond graduation. Every school day matters.

Families are asked to review the student handbook together when it comes home. This is an important opportunity to discuss the expectations and procedures that help keep our school safe, respectful, and focused on learning. If your child does not bring home a handbook, please contact the main office and we will gladly provide another copy.

Students should also come to school dressed appropriately and ready to learn. Information about our dress code and other school expectations can be found in the handbook. Please return all beginning-of-the-year forms promptly and notify the main office whenever there is a change to your address, telephone number, email address, or emergency contact information.

For your convenience, here are several helpful contacts:

• School Secretary: Sara Botticello – 716-965-2711 ext. 521
• Counselor and Athletics Secretary: Heather Jackson – 716-965-2711 ext. 523
• School Counselor: Ms. Hazelton – 716-965-2711 ext. 200
• Building Principal: Mr. Grande – 716-965-2711 ext. 522
• School Resource Officer: Deputy Hanner – 716-965-2711 ext. 305
• Information Technology: Mr. Wright – 716-965-2711 ext. 565
• School Website: www.forestville.com
• District Facebook Page: Forestville Central School District

We are fortunate to have a school community in which students, families, faculty, staff, and community members work together and care deeply about one another. I am looking forward to another rewarding year and to celebrating the many accomplishments of our students.

Thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and support. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back!

Sincerely,

Mr. Daniel Grande
Middle/High School Principal