June 25, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Oh what a year! Exhilarating and Exhausting—Completely.

In education, endings matter, begetting beginnings. Beginnings lead to endings, which when done well, bring new beginnings, and so on and so forth…

To help us end well, let me return to Joy – What is Joy? You have heard me reference Joy in nearly every forum or format since you first met me five years ago.

You know that I often turn to text for understanding; in this case, to a fellow University of Chicago product, David Brooks, and his book The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life (2019).

The Second Mountain is where we need to arrive as individuals and a society. Simply put, the Second Mountain is about us, not I or me; about compassion and caring; about giving back and doing good; about fostering others, communities, and thus whole societies.

The Second Mountain is our work as educators: how we help students achieve their individual goals and successes (the First Mountain), and then use their gifts and talents to lead us to a vibrant and caring society (the Second Mountain).

The Second Mountain is about Joy, far more than happiness. Per Brooks,

Joy tends to involve some transcendence of self. It’s when the skin barrier between you and some other person or entity fades away and you feel fused together. Joy is present when mother and baby are gazing adoringly into each other’s eyes, when a hiker is overwhelmed by beauty in the woods and feels at one with nature, when a gaggle of friends are dancing deliriously in unison. Joy often involves self-forgetting. Happiness is what we aim for on the First Mountain. Joy is a by-product of living on the Second Mountain. We can help create happiness, but we are seized by joy. We are pleased by happiness, but we are transformed by joy...

Enough of this fancy talk from Brooks. Let me turn to you.

Across the district today are exhilarated and exhausted professionals, who have spent this year largely on the Second Mountain, guiding our students in many cases to Joy. In the process, many of them have been seized by Joy. They, too, are on the Second Mountain.

For proof, I went back through this year’s Hastings Happenings, Webpage, newsletters, Facebook and Instagram pieces and posts. I found hundreds of images and stories of Joy—not just happiness.

Today’s Hastings Happenings presents pinnacle moments of Joy. Please read on for celebrations of students moving up the Hastings mountain or heading up and out to future educational peaks. We also raise up several excellent staff and administrators who are ending their Hastings chapter, with an excited eye on retirement and new opportunities. Joyful endings begetting hopeful beginnings.

Go well and be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Leading you into the next to last Hastings Happenings for the school year, let me act like the best of great football (soccer) managers (coaches) and step out of the way to have the players (students) play. As many of you know, if you want a (too) long conversation with me, let’s talk football (soccer). Fittingly, this jogo bonito intro comes on the second day of the World Cup, and the day of the USA’s first match.

Today’s Hastings Happenings is packed with the play, work and excellence of Hastings students–guided by dedicated and expert teachers, coaches and directors.  Read on for examples of the breadth of student learning, creativity, and community engagement we foster across Hastings schools. 

• Hillside Elementary celebrated student achievement through its annual Night of the Arts and this morning’s schoolwide America 250 celebration.
• Farragut Middle School’s eighth graders enjoyed a memorable New York City trip marking the culmination of their middle school years. 
• At HHS, students showcased intellectual rigor through the Science Research Symposium and earned impressive recognition at the Somers Science Fair, demonstrating the strength of Hastings’ Science Research Program. Also at HHS, students connected their learning to real-world experiences through Culinary Chemistry, where science and cooking came together in hands-on lessons. 
• Beyond the classroom, many from across Hastings came out on Saturday for the annual Del Caraballo Basketball Tournament, reinforcing the spirit of service, teamwork, and school pride. 
• Not featured today, but showing up in the district’s social media and website, are moments I witnessed in walkabouts: Spanish Honor Society Induction; high-ladder climbing recognition of school record setters on the Track & Field Team; the Senior Prom (complete with navigation of stranded bus); the Athletic Banquet, featuring teams from fall through spring; and, last night’s annual Hastings Chamber Music Festival.  

Out of the way I go.  Read on!

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Less than four weeks to go, but who’s counting? 

We are into the final steps of what has been a year of notable moments, many captured in this third to last Hastings Happenings for 2025-26.  The final two issues will serve as crescendo’s, with a final upbeat on the Moving Up and Graduation ceremonies in late June. 

Before digging into this issue's compelling stories, please turn your attention to two vibrant examples of Hastings' unique embrace of civic engagement.  And then, as is important in these final weeks, I share a personal reflection on educational leadership–setting out guideposts for the coming school year, and beyond.  

Thank You – Exemplary Civic Engagement  

The strong passage of the 2026–27 school budget with 77 percent voter approval is a powerful affirmation of the work of the Hastings students, staff, faculty and administrators–as well as the unique civic engagement of the Hastings community. Nearly 1,500 residents participated in the budget vote — turnout that placed Hastings in the top quartile of 45 Westchester County school districts and ahead of all the Rivertown districts by wide margins.  (If we were to control for total population per school district, Hastings would be close to the top county-wide.) While voter turnout in Hastings was lower than last year, this was the pattern across Westchester, where districts experienced an average turnout decline of approximately 5.9 percent. All in all, Hastings sets the standard for community participation and public education support. 

Looking Back to Look Forward – Fostering Future Civic Engagement

Thursday evening I ventured into the start of a wonderful Town-Gown inquiry and celebration of the nation’s 250 years. Last night, guided by Greg Smith, Hastings HS SUPA American History class, in conjunction with the Smithsonian's Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program, presented “America at 250: Symbols of Our Story (Hastings Edition).” 

Working with the Smithsonian this past semester, SUPA students participated in a national initiative designed to foster storytelling and civic dialogue among students across the country. Connecting with Spoon River Valley High School in London Mills, IL, students made fast friends and discussed how our own unique communities contribute to the broader American story. In light of the country’s 250 anniversary, students researched the many facets of Hastings that have shaped the larger narrative of America. Our community-based inquiry project prompted students to examine and honor a person, an event and two objects that embody the spirit of Hastings. Lastly, students created an original logo that captures the Hastings identity.

Joined by over 100 Hastings residents, I listened to each of the SUPA students explain their poster display, conveying in compelling narrative, images and artifacts their chosen historical embrace of what makes Hastings unique. Each student also spoke warmly about what they had learned from their new colleagues in Illinois corn and soybean country.  Kudos to our budding historians and sowers of civic engagement: Will Andrus, Teddy Carr, Genesis Chacha, Lia Cohen, Isabella Doherty, Simrin Eklund, Elin Esposito, Orly Fishman, Liya Fried, Olive Friederich, Aya Mansour, Maya Sanzel, Anna Smith, Madeline Thomas, Zoe Verduin, Matilda Vishab, Sage Wasserman, Ruby Wallach, Zelda Weitzman and Jasper Wolferman.  

Last night was the precursor to “The Declaration of Independence Live!” – a Village sponsored, theatrical performance on June 5th (5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.) at Hastings Village Hall & Library Grounds.  A not to be missed program, directed by Rachel Wineberg (HHS Theater Program).

End of Year Reflection – Leading with the Positive

In reflecting on this year and educational leadership, I have returned to the work of Parker Palmer (Leading from Within, 2000), who reminds us that the inner life of educators matters deeply. Teaching and leadership are not merely technical acts; they are profoundly human endeavors that require us to examine how personal integrity, spirituality, compassion, and public service intersect. At the center of our work must be the human heart.

This philosophy echoes the enduring motto of Northfield Mount Hermon School (my launching pad many decades ago): “the Head, the Heart, and the Hand.” Effective educators must think with rigor, serve with empathy, and act with purpose. These three dimensions must be woven together as a guiding mantra for all who serve children and communities. In times marked by anxiety, division, and uncertainty, educators have a responsibility to model and project more light than shadow.

To lead with the positive requires intentional discipline and moral clarity. Drawing on Palmer, five guideposts are paramount:

1. Be secure in your identity and worth.
   Leadership rooted in confidence and humility allows us to serve others without fear or defensiveness.
2. Avoid viewing the universe as a battlefield.
   Schools thrive when relationships are grounded in trust, empathy, and the belief that people are fundamentally capable of goodness and growth.
3. Understand that “us” and “we” supersede “I” and “me.”
   Sustainable progress depends upon cooperation, shared responsibility, and collective purpose.
4. Do not fear chaos.
   Moments of uncertainty often become the source of creativity, innovation, and transformation.
5. Do not fear failure.
   Meaningful learning and growth require thoughtful risk-taking, reflection, and the courage to try again.

Ultimately, educational leadership is an act of hope. It asks us to cultivate communities where intellect, compassion, and action coexist — where we lead not through fear or scarcity, but through possibility, generosity, and light. That is my personal commitment as I look toward the next school year and a redoubling of my attention to the well-being of students, staff and families.

Be well.

May 15, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Yet again, we have a robust Hastings Happenings raising up the wide range of creative and inspiring work of students, teachers and families over the past two weeks. Please read closely to gain a taste of the brilliance. But, first, let us be reminded of two significant cultural observances this month.

May is a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate both Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month. These observances invite us to reflect on the profound contributions, histories, cultures, and traditions that Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Jewish communities have made — and continue to make — to our nation, state and Hastings.

AAPI Heritage Month honors generations of individuals whose leadership, innovation, resilience, and cultural richness have helped shape the American experience across every field, including education, science, public service, the arts, business, and civic life. It is also an opportunity to deepen understanding of the diversity represented within Asian American and Pacific Islander communities and to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, respect, and belonging for all.

Jewish American Heritage Month similarly provides an important opportunity to recognize the enduring contributions of Jewish Americans to the social, cultural, intellectual, and democratic foundations of our country. It also encourages thoughtful reflection on the importance of combating antisemitism, preserving historical memory, and promoting empathy and understanding within an increasingly diverse society.

Together, these commemorations remind us that diversity strengthens Hastings. By learning from one another’s histories and experiences, we foster greater compassion, broaden perspectives, and help create environments where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully.

An Upbeat Coda – Redux

Today’s Hastings Happenings went to press before last evening's 7th/8th Grade Spring Concert. I was lucky to be in the full house with parents, peers and fellow professionals to soak in the budding musical talent of FMS students. We will have a story on the performance in an upcoming Superintendent Report (May 27, 2026 BOE Meeting).

Read on.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

May 1, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

I am the opening act today for an action packed Hastings Happenings. I would like all your attention on the series of articles and images that follow, bringing to life the myriad student and staff accomplishments the past two weeks. But first, let me contribute a serious message, and an upbeat coda.

Serious Message: More on the Upcoming (May 19) Budget Vote

Up until May 19, I will be repeating the importance of every eligible voter stepping up to vote their conscience on the budget. My message this week is simple: a vote on the budget should consider the totality of what the funding will provide Hastings students and staff for the entire school year.

There always are particular concerns that voters have regarding the school district, and many of them are significant, such as the questions the past several weeks about the installation of two artificial turf fields at Burke Estate. To be clear, the Capital Bond and Prop 3 (inclusive of the artificial turf fields) are unrelated to the vote on the 2026-27 School Budget.

The Board of Education and the administration are working through the concerns regarding the artificial turf fields, with additional communications forthcoming. For reference on the latest details, please see the April 22, 2026 presentation to the BOE.

I ask that eligible voters consider the incredible importance of the recommended budget–fully adopted and approved–for the immediate and long-term well being of Hastings children. Themes and details about the Budget can be found at the dedicated Budget Webpage, including the now posted 2026-27 Budget Book. A detailed budget newsletter will be sent to all Hastings households in the next two weeks.

Please be sure to vote on Tuesday, May 19 (location: Hastings High School - Cochran Gym, 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.).

An Upbeat Coda

Today’s Hastings Happenings went to press before last evening’s remarkable HHS Spring Concert. We will be giving much deserved PR and praise to the musicians and their guiding sages (Eric Day and Jon Riss) in the next issue. For now, know that the packed house, including this tall guy, Melissa Szymanski, Andy Clayman, Tara Ware and multiple faculty, were moved by the incredible depth and range of musical talent filling the ears, hearts and minds of all in attendance last night.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

April 17, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Coming out of Spring Break, we are fully focused on the end of the school year. Hard work prevails, soon to be followed by end of year celebrations–most notably high school graduation on June 18. For me, this is a time to take stock of where the district has been and where we are headed. Let me share three big reflections that are significant for the future of Hastings.

A Strong Budget in Tight Fiscal Times

The BOE will vote Wednesday night (4.22.26) on the Recommended Operating and Instructional Budget for 2026-27. Themes and details about the Budget can be found at the dedicated Budget Webpage.

The proposed K–12 budget is a clear, forward-looking investment in both people and programs, grounded in thoughtful analysis and community voice. Developed through extensive data review, administrative collaboration, and stakeholder engagement, it reflects a disciplined effort to meet the needs of the entire system—not just individual schools—while remaining within the tax cap.

At its core, the budget prioritizes what matters most: strong staffing, expanded student support, and long-term sustainability. It invests in educators and leadership, including new instructional positions and a dedicated focus on equity and belonging. At the same time, it strengthens student services through expanded special education programming, targeted academic interventions, and the return of summer learning opportunities—all while preserving every existing program and extracurricular offering.

Just as importantly, the proposal reinforces a coherent K–12 vision. It is designed to ensure seamless, developmentally appropriate progressions for students from Hillside through the High School, elevating both rigor and alignment across the system. With continued attention to facilities and infrastructure, the budget balances immediate needs with future readiness.

Ultimately, this is a fiscally responsible plan with high stakes: it sustains and advances a high-performing school system, while failure to approve it would risk significant setbacks in staffing, programming, and long-term quality.

Exciting New Leaders

The new school year will open with four new top leaders, joining the dedicated and expert Leadership Team. As all should know by now, Ms. Lina Carolini-Cannavò will be the new FMS Principal. Emerging from an exceptionally competitive search, Ms. Carolini-Cannavò distinguished herself at every stage with her deep instructional expertise, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering commitment to students. Known for her warmth, accessibility, and ability to build strong relationships across a school community, she brings a wealth of experience and a clear, inspiring vision for middle school education. Her passion for fostering both academic excellence and a strong sense of belonging positions Farragut Middle School for a bright and exciting future under her leadership. Ms. Carolini-Cannavò will be in the district this coming week to meet with faculty, staff and parent leaders.

On April 22, the Board of Education will vote on the appointment of the new Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services. The candidate I am recommending to the BOE excelled in a comprehensive and demanding search process, with a pool of over 60 candidates. The search process included a representative Advisory Interview Committee, which met with five finalists and strongly endorsed the candidate I am recommending to the BOE. Following that vote, a detailed announcement letter will be sent to the full community, and the candidate will send a specific letter to special education families and students. Please note that we also are in a search process for the second Assistant Director for Special Education, with an application deadline of April 22.

Lastly, the Board of Education has committed to a search for a Director of Equity, Opportunity & Belonging. The search will commence after the April 22 BOE Meeting. The position will play a central role in fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful school culture that supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students. The Director will work collaboratively with district leadership, school administrators, staff, students, families, and community partners to promote equity, opportunity, and a sense of belonging for all. The Director‘s leadership responsibilities align with the Portrait of a Hastings Learner and support the implementation of New York State’s Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Framework. The role emphasizes relationship-based practices, equitable systems, and student voice to ensure that all students are affirmed, supported, and held to high expectations. Through restorative practices, proactive attendance support, and collaboration with faculty and staff, the Director will ensure students remain connected to school and engaged in their learning.

POHL and Strategic Plans

As Superintendent, I am committed to ensuring that our district’s priorities are not only clearly defined, but consistently visible in the daily experiences of our students and staff. I take responsibility for the fact that, while we are guided by strong principles, embodied in the Portrait of a Hastings Learner (POHL), we do not have a lean, living strategic plan that translates those principles into aligned action. My commitment is that, by early in the coming school year, we will have a clear, focused, and actionable strategic plan—framed by the Portrait of a Hastings Learner—that articulates district-wide and building-level goals, priorities, actions, and measurable outcomes over a three-year period, with particular emphasis on the first two years. Significantly, we also must undertake this work to meet the NYSED requirement that we align the POHL with the new NY State Portrait of a Graduate.

I will lead a collaborative process with administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents, and the Board of Education to examine where our priorities are embedded in practice and where they remain uneven or surface-level. Together, we will identify and address the barriers that limit coherence, depth, and impact across our system. This work will be a central focus of the summer and fall, and will be carried out in a way that is inclusive, efficient, and supportive of ongoing school and department efforts. By doing so, we will strengthen the organizational conditions necessary for meaningful strategy implementation and ensure greater coherence, clarity, and impact for all members of our learning community. We require a plan that ensures our shared vision becomes a lived practice in every school and department.

With those reflections in mind, please read on for immediate evidence of the remarkable productivity, creativity and smarts of our Hastings students and staff.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

March 27, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Ta Da! We made it! Spring Break! With this marker now passed, we are headed into the school year’s final stretch. A pep-talk is warranted.

Lest we forget, there’s a special kind of energy in Hastings’ schools—one that reflects both the hard work of the past months and the excitement for the final three months of school. Classrooms are buzzing, creativity is on full display, and moments of connection and growth are unfolding in ways that truly capture the spirit of Hastings. These are not random words from this Tall Guy; they are based on my being out and about in classrooms, at events, in BOE meetings, on the sidelines and in audiences. Being there matters, and being there gives me the cred to be celebratory.

This week’s Hastings Happenings is a powerful snapshot of student energy in action–whether they are leading bold and heartfelt discussions with staff on belonging, sharing their passions, honoring role models, celebrating literacy, mentoring one another, or excelling on regional and national stages. Each story in this edition reflects not only achievement, but the relationships, curiosity, and sense of purpose that define the best of Hastings as a place of inquiry and learning.

As you read on, I hope you feel the pride, joy, and momentum that our students and staff are carrying with them into a well-deserved Spring Break.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

March 13, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Moving fast. Two words that best convey the current reality for many of us, and certainly the pace for staff and administrators early this morning.

I apoligize for the unanticipated failure in the Farragut Complex heating system this morning, forcing us into a two-hour delay. The early morning check by the facilities team determined that the heating system was not producing necessary heat. Parts of the facility were warm, but the vast majority was not. We cannot bring students into a school facility that does not have a functional heating system, especially on sub-freezing days. I decided at 6:30 a.m., later than our standard protocol for schedule notices, that we had to have a delayed start to ensure we had heat prior to students coming to school. I appreciate the quick work by staff to communicate this decision to families and staff by 6:45 a.m. in multiple formats. Rest assured that we are reviewing the reasons for this second early morning heating system failure.

On a different note, we are moving at pace to put the finishing touches on the Recommended Instructional Budget for 2026-27. It will be presented to the Board of Education on Tuesday evening (6:00 p.m., Hillside Multi-Purpose Room). The detailed materials will be posted in BoardDocs at the start of the meeting. Please know that there will be several BOE meetings, all in public, to discuss the recommended budget prior to the Board budget vote on April 21, 2026. Very important, please make note of the PTSA/SEPTA Superintendent’s Budget Forum on Tuesday, March 24 (6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Hillside Multi-Purpose Room). This will be an excellent opportunity for public discussion (including Q&A) of the recommended budget.

With those two technical updates shared, I ask you to move fast to read closely what follows in yet another richly celebratory edition of the Hastings Happenings.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

February 27, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

Bookends…Doors Opening and Never Closing...Reminder to Act for 12. How does this all connect?

By chance, this month’s two Hastings Happenings serve as Bookends to Black History Month. I opened the February 6th issue with a personal example of Black History coming to life (“The Hawk” being a phrase in African American vernacular for over 100 years to describe the biting winds coming across Chicago from Lake Michigan). I now bring the other half of the bookend.

Black History Month, as with similar heritage months, must be treated as a Door Opening and Never Closing for sustained, robust attention to the people, culture and history honored in each particular month. That is, the month of recognition is most salient as a Reminder to Act for 12. The charge: Carry forward from the specific month ideas and energy to keep learning, studying, reading and listening…so you are best prepared to act honorably with dignity and respect for each and every person.

For my part, regarding Black History Month, last week I reviewed my reading of the past year. I was pleasantly surprised to see that this year alone I had dug into the works of multiple African American authors: SA Cosby, Percival Everett, James McBride, Walter Mosley, Colson Whitehead, Isabel Wilkerson, and Jacqueline Woodson (reading one of her books to our 3rd graders). Last week I returned to James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time (1963); once again I was moved by the power, pain, beauty and hope woven through his iconic essays on race in America, which over 60 years since publication resonate as poignant touchstones. Baldwin reminded me to act for 12 by opening doors, never to be closed.

Read on for another robust edition of Hastings Happenings.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

February 6, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff,

My native Chicago (Southside) is my muse today, linking the full month dedicated to Black History with the frightfully cold weekend ahead of us. My point: our “celebration of the fullness of African American history and culture” must not be time bound and must reach across generations, races, ethnicities, faiths, genders and cultures.

Black History Month

February 1 marks the beginning of Black History Month. I recommend readers review the website of the Smithsonian African American Museum, especially the section on Black History Month. Consider the opening statement: Black History Month is a time to celebrate the fullness of African American history and culture, but that cannot be contained in one month alone.

In that spirit, I share a Black History connection I carry with me year-round, but especially in the winter.

Call Chicago The Hawk…Not the Windy City

The Hawk is a Chicago phrase for the bitterly cold winds that blow off Lake Michigan, especially in the winter months. The phrase is rooted in African-American vernacular, tying back to about 100 years ago. I heard it regularly on the Southside in my adult years, but primarily from African American colleagues. I loved it–hearing and feeling what The Hawk conveyed about the cold beauty of those Lake Michigan winds.

For a journalistic and musical reference to The Hawk, see this 2021 Chicago Magazine Article, featuring the lyrics from Lou Rawls’ song, “Dead End Street”(Album, Too Much, 1967).

Read on for another robust edition of Hastings Happenings.

Stay warm!

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

January 23, 2026

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Winter Moments that Warm Our Community (Even During a Blizzard!)

Winter is a season of reflection, connection, and quiet momentum—and across Hastings-on-Hudson Schools, it is also a time when learning, leadership, and compassion shine especially bright. Even as forecasts point to a Saturday night through Monday morning blizzard (fingers crossed for just enough snow to be magical, not shovel-breaking), the energy in our schools remains anything but frozen.

In this collection of winter highlights, you will see students discovering the power of their words, leading with empathy and courage, honoring legacies of justice and peace, and connecting with community partners in authentic and inspiring ways. Whether welcoming a global CEO into a writing studio, mentoring younger peers through leadership circles, gathering to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s message, or preparing for important milestones ahead, our students continue to create warmth—no matter the temperature outside.

As the snow piles up (or politely melts away), these stories remind us that the heart of winter in Hastings is found not in the forecast, but in curiosity, kindness, leadership, and community. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy this season of learning together.

Two Technical Updates

FMS Wing Return: Lastly, not noted in this issue, is the successful return this week of fifth grade and 6-8 ELA teachers and support staff back to the 2nd and 3rd floor Farragut Wing, with subsequent transition for teachers back to the Lower Washington wing. Once all grades and administrators are back in the FMS Wing, anticipated by the week after the February Break, we will be scheduling an Open House. A giant thank you to the staff, teachers and administrators who linked arms (and did heavy lifting) to get students back to the Wing.

Weather Decision: Regarding the projected winter storm for Sunday-Monday, we will make an announcement on Sunday IF the school schedule will change on Monday. As always, no news from me, means that we will be having a normal day on Monday. (Right now, it looks quite likely that Monday will be at least a delayed start, and possibly a full closure. But, please wait for news on Sunday.) More information about Inclement Weather Notifications can be found HERE.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

December 23, 2025

Happy Holidays from the Hastings School District!

As we celebrate this special season, we extend heartfelt thanks to our students, staff, families, and community for the passion, dedication, and joyful spirit you bring to Hastings' schools each day. Your collective energy inspires learning, sparks creativity, and strengthens the connections that make Hastings such a special place to grow and thrive.

Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season and a New Year filled with health, happiness, and hope. We look forward to continuing our journey together in 2026—learning, growing, and thriving.

Be well!

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

December 12, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

What is my catchy opening today? How to grab your eye to keep you reading? With the Muse failing me, I will cut to the chase and dive into several technical updates.

Inclement Weather Days – Count Update

We have a well established system for determining any changes to school schedules due to the weather. (Please see the August 2025 Memo if you need a refresher). We have a total of six Inclement Weather Days. As the 2025-26 School Calendar notes, we have additional days identified if we end up using more than the six days. The tough reality is that we may now be down to four Inclement Weather Days, since we likely will have to use two days to cover the evacuations due to the Chemical Spill on September 4, 2025 and the Boiler Failure on December 5, 2025. Weather experts (who really are experts) are advising me to keep “arrows in my quiver” since we anticipate an active winter from January through April. One immediate impact is that we are reconsidering if we can use Inclement Weather Days (one or more) to facilitate the move back into the Farragut Wing.

Farragut Wing Status

We continue to be on pace to have the Farragut Wing returned to use by January 15, 2026. The plan to move teachers, staff and administrators back into the space is still in process. We will be using a phased return over the following week, which may be especially important if we are not able to use an Inclement Weather Day (see above). Maureen Caraballo and Facilities are working with Dan Waldeck, Lauren Iorio and HTA leaders on the plans. More information will be forthcoming before the Holiday Recess, as well as in early January.

Safety and Well-Being Training

This week I joined staff and administrators for training on essential skills for the safety and well-being of students. On Monday, during Superintendent’s Conference Day, roughly 25 aids, monitors and administrators had annual refresher training in CPR and AED (provided by CPRed).

On Tuesday and Wednesday, 15 aides and administrators received intensive training in CPI Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, led by a SWBOCES licensed trainer. Approximately 50-60 staff and administrators have been trained in CPI, which must be renewed annually. Our added emphasis on CPI is a highly recommended step to make sure a large number of employees have certified skills to help students manage tension and anxiety so that it does not become a path to harmful behavior. Having been through the training, I must underscore the importance of the verbal (non–physical) aspects of the skills and techniques we are taught, which take priority in all interactions with students. Simply put, we are trained to only use physical techniques (which are designed to ensure student safety) in extreme and rare situations. I am happy to answer any questions about the training.

Guest Reading – Keeping Connected & Joyful

I have started my fifth year of guest reading in each Hillside classroom. I read the same book for an entire grade in coordination with the teachers. The continuity helps me actually read well (smile) and bring a similar experience to each classroom. As I read, I weave in questions and turn-and-talk, allowing me to experience the engagement, creativity and clever thinking of the students, which clearly is being deftly fostered by each teacher. Simply put, it keeps me connected with our students, and puts a big kick in my step. Kudos to Hillside students and teachers.

Now, please read on–this Hastings Happenings is again loaded with good news.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

November 25, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Let me send you into Thanksgiving Break with a bit of free-verse, from the heart, modified from a poem I shared back in 2022. Returning to the good to prime the future good–that is good.

Ever Thankful

Walking about, I carry

Their Creativity

Their Smiles

Their Laughter

Their Insights

Their Curiosity

Who?

Our Students

Your Children

Our Joy.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

November 14, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Welcome to another rich issue of the Hastings Happenings, presented as always with a mix of narrative, photos and video. There is much to underscore below (pun), covering a wide array of Hastings attributes, each of which bring to life the Portrait of a Hastings Learner:

• Promoting multicultural inquiry

• Fostering Town-Gown relationships by celebrating Hastings Veterans

• Digging into ageless (colonel) ideas

• Excelling in symphony, band and chorus

• Dancing with Junior Formal style

• Participating in selective national teacher networks

• Winning communications recognition

Read on!

But, first, please look back at the Board Brief sent out last week. This is a new communications vehicle to highlight aspects of the most recent BOE meeting. Note in particular the updates about the Capital Bond Work and the Pupil Personal Services Organizational Leadership Chart, a guide designed to help families with special education students know whom to contact when.

Lastly, I would reiterate that we continue apace to be fully back in the Farragut Wing by the end of January 2026. Details on the transition (move back) plan will be shared over the next several weeks.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

October 31, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Happy Halloween! I am all treats with this brief opening to the latest Hastings Happenings. My walkabouts today came upon hundreds of costumed students and staff. "Love da spirit!"

Athletic Fields – Making Progress

A concise update on the status of Capital Bond (Proposition 3) was provided Monday night at a community forum attended by approximately 50 residents, family members and students.

The technical team from Triton, LAN, and LA Group made the presentation, along with Alex DalPiaz, Maureen Caraballo, Joe Martorana and Drew Wendol. As the presentation showed, work is holding closely to the specifications the BOE stressed as essential prior to the June 2025 Bond Vote. We are optimistic that we will have the work fully completed by Fall 2027, with earlier access to fields in a staged reopening as work is completed. We fielded questions on a series of topics, ranging from the schedule for construction and ways to accelerate the project, to environmental and health concerns, to plans for ensuring fair use of the new fields across various teams and sports. An FAQ document will be ready next week for posting on the dedicated webpage for the Capital Bond. We will be hosting another forum on the athletic fields later in November or early December. In the meantime, please review the above linked presentation.

More on the Bond – November 4 BOE Meeting

Not to be left out, Capital Bond Propositions #1-2 will be the focus of a comprehensive update at the November 4, 2025 BOE Meeting. To review, Prop #1 provides for the replacement of outdated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for code compliance, safety, and efficiency. Prop #2 provides for new classrooms and special education spaces, the cafeteria relocation, new main entrance, and code and accessibility upgrades. The technical team from Triton, LAN and PBDW will present on the current status of designs, schedules and budgets. We will post and distribute the formal presentation from the meeting.

Again, Happy Halloween! Here’s to a healthy and fun-filled celebration tonight!

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

October 17, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

I often speak and write about the linked values of “Dignity and Respect.” These fundamentals of how we must act toward one another are worth repeating.

This week, I came upon an insightful statement about “respect.” I share it now, letting its meaning and guidance speak for itself:

“Respect is not a passive act. To respect someone is to look for the springs that feed the pool of their experience. The word comes from the Latin “respecere,” which means “to look again.” Its most ancient roots mean “to observe.” It involves a sense of honoring or deferring to someone. Where once we saw one aspect of a person, we look again and realize how much of them we had missed. The second look can let us take in more fully the fact that here before me is a living, breathing being.” (William Isaacs, “Dialogue: The Art of Thinking Together,” 1999.)

Today’s Hastings Happenings is rich with examples of respect—shown by our students, staff and supportive families. As you read on, I invite you to pause and “look again” at those amongst us, each of whom bring dignity to the tapestry of Hastings.

On Monday, October 20, all Hastings schools and district buildings will be closed in observance of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. We wish those who observe a joyful and peaceful Diwali, and hope this day reminds us all of the light we can share with one another through dignity, respect, and understanding.

Be well.

Bill

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools

October 3, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Today, I go personal. I am sharing a message my nearly 96 year old father sent to the family on Wednesday. I believe it will resonate across Hastings–students, staff, families and residents. He titled it, “Thinking of you and more…”

Tomorrow, Thursday, is Yom Kippur, a very important holiday for Jewish people. I have been thinking about the power of meditation, which will be uppermost tomorrow. I have also been thinking about my mother, whose birthday it was last Sunday. I came across a card in her old recipe box with these comments: "Relaxation is the best tranquilizer. Build a quiet room within your mind. Retire within that space regularly. A little vacation every day. But don’t retire from life”.

 

Cheers,

bob/dad/gramps

Bob McKersie

Some context to bring extra meaning to this personal example: My grandmother, the source of the recipe box, was a “normal school trained” second grade school teacher in Haledon/Paterson, married to my grandfather, who had dropped out of school at age 14 to work in the mills before fighting in WWI (infantry) and later became a US Postal Clerk (a job that proved secure). They were a devout Methodist family.

What matters in this story? Two points jump out for me. First, the interfaith guidance, across multiple generations, to seek paths to peace and relaxation, “building a quiet room within your mind,” is extra important these days within and beyond Hastings. Second, we have many more reasons to feel connected as diverse people than to feel separated. My personal story is an example, it is not exemplary; it is akin to many Hastings stories, reaching across faiths, generations, and family histories and means. Let’s focus on the connections that bind us together; not what too easily separates us. Take time to appreciate and applaud each other.

This spirit of connection and togetherness is at the heart of this week's Homecoming celebrations. Across this week we had great contests and spirit with Girls Volleyball, Girls Soccer, Cross Country, Boys Volleyball, Girls Tennis and Boys Soccer. Tonight at 6:30 p.m. our Field Hockey team takes on Ossining at Burke Estate Field, and tomorrow (Saturday, October 4, 6:00 p.m.) our community will gather for the Homecoming Football Game against Woodlands at Reynolds Field. With food, music, and family fun, these events remind us that while we each carry quiet spaces of reflection, we also share vibrant, joyful spaces as a community. I hope you’ll join us in celebrating not only our teams, but also the bonds that unite us here in Hastings.

Be well.

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools

September 19, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Three weeks into the school year, let us remember two touchstones:

• Hastings POHL North Star: A nurturing community of diverse learners who foster a just and compassionate society.

• Guiding Value: Dignity and Respect for Every Individual.

Over this year, we will bring forward examples of us living out these principles, which hold students at their heart. For the Portrait (POHL), we will redouble efforts to raise up examples of the essential attributes: Bold, Collaborative, Empathic, Empowered, Inquisitive, Inventive. Dignity and Respect for Every Individual must guide all our actions. Let’s strive together to be a beacon for the region and nation on these fundamental human values.

Student voice and leadership is an engine room for us. Today’s Hastings Happenings features the early impact of Hastings two School Board Liaisons, Ella Chiu and Joaquin Toledo-Chae. As many know, a new state law mandates that school districts have student representatives on the school board. Hastings for nearly 15 years has had this role, so we have become a regional exemplar for how to maximize this student leadership and voice. Indeed, this week I was asked to help lead a training session for students from 20 other districts. I shared an outline of the roles and responsibilities that Ella, Joaquin and their predecessors have helped forge–may it become a model beyond Hastings.

Over this year, I will host roundtable discussions with a wide range of students, providing the opportunity for diverse perspectives and experiences to be heard. These will include Student Union representatives, Student Liaison Groups, Student Athletic Committee and Special Education groups. I certainly learn; in turn, I hope to help the participants experience effective advocacy moments.

Update on a Serious Matter

Due to a technical glitch, for which I apologize, my Special Friday Letter 9.12.25 did not go out to families (while it did go as scheduled to employees and the BOE). We sent it yesterday afternoon to all families. A focus of the letter was the 9.4.25 chemical spill in a High School science lab and the resulting evacuation and eventual reunification process for FMS and HHS students.

I want to stress that we have been reviewing, investigating and determining how to prevent such a situation in the future, and how to improve evacuations and reunifications. We also continue to monitor the wellness and care of any of the students involved in the science lab accident. I provided a detailed update to the Board of Education in an Executive Session on Wednesday evening (9.17.25). I will share a similar update and written report at the regular meeting of the Board on Thursday, September 25, providing an opportunity for interested and concerned individuals to have more understanding and insights on what occurred and our corrective actions for the future.

In Closing…

Next week, schools will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday in observance of Rosh Hashanah. May we all join in wishing our fellow students, staff and families a sweet new year.

Be well.

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools

September 5, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

The first week of school has been rich in material for memoirs. One source of material is the emergency situation yesterday in the Farragut Complex, which I wrapped up with a summary letter at the close of the day. Today, I want to turn to a more profound source of material: student voices and images signifying the good news pervading the entire district in week one.

First, let me remind you of “What We Stand For & Strive For” in Hastings this school year. Last week I sent to all families and staff a statement on our Purpose & Priorities for 2025-26. I embed the statement below. In a phrase, this week underscored that we are living out these aspirations.

The Hastings-on-Hudson Public Schools enters 2025–26 guided by our POHL North Star: a nurturing community of diverse learners who foster a just and compassionate society. Rooted in dignity and respect for every individual, and driven by the belief that true progress comes from working together, we are committed to collaborative problem solving and shared leadership.

 

This year, our focus is on delivering visible growth and lasting change in five critical areas: advancing literacy (Hillside), strengthening math instruction (Hillside and Farragut MS), aligning grading practices (Farragut MS and Hastings HS), enhancing special education programming and supports (district-wide), and implementing the 2025 Capital Bond to improve facilities (district-wide). Together, these multi-year priorities reflect our collective commitment to equity, excellence, and the success of every student.

Read on for narrative, visual and video testimonials to the energizing start of the school year–in nearly all cases from the student perspective.

Be well.

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Hastings Families,

All staff arrived back yesterday morning for a rousing, energy filled Opening Convocation. Highlights included opening music by staff and senior Ariella Eliasi, and a closing keynote by seniors David Franco, Carlin McKinnon and Emmy Taylor, each of whom shared reflections and recommendations having attended the Hastings schools since Kindergarten. We will be sending out videos and articles featuring the inspiring music and speeches shortly. 

I prepared a simple statement on Hastings' purpose and priorities for the new school year, which is based on extensive discussions with the Leadership Team and the Board of Education. I am sharing it here: What We Stand For & Strive For--Purpose & Priorities -- 2025-26.  This is a "headlines" statement, with details to follow, but it states succinctly what matters most in the coming school year for Hastings.

I look forward to welcoming students to school next week.

Be well.

William S. McKersie, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools