Marcellus Schools New Family Picnic

In what has become a very meaningful Marcellus Central School District tradition, the Marcellus Rotary, in conjunction with the Marcellus Senior High School student government, held its annual New Family Picnic on September 7, 2010 at Marcellus Park. “Moving or transferring into a new school can be exciting, challenging, as well as a little overwhelming.” These words from the New Family Picnic invitation best describe the rationale for this family and school event. The picnic is an informal way for new students to meet other students and for new families to be welcomed into the Marcellus Schools’ educational community. Rotary member Brud Wilson welcomed families to the event as he shared, “Have you ever heard the saying that Marcellus might not be heaven but it is pretty close? When we are sitting in a setting like this, with a fellowship like this, then that saying must be true.” Marcellus Senior High School Principal Deborah Glisson then introduced Marcellus Superintendent of Schools Dr. Craig Tice. Tice shared that he understood what families were going through as “our family was here just a few short years ago, and I can tell you this is a wonderful school district.” Tice and Glisson went on to introduce Board of Education members as well as the District administrative team. Board of Education members attending the event included Dave Kelly/BOE President, Julie Brissette, Lisa Valentine, and John Fuller. District administrators attending the picnic included John Durkee/SHS Principal, Deborah Glisson/SHS Assistant Principal, Michael Dardaris/DMS Principal, Janet O’Mara/DMS Assistant Principal, Gary Bissaillon/KCH Principal, Cindy Bird/K-6 Curriculum Coordinator, Jessica Docteur/7-12 Curriculum Coordinator, Brad Dates/Athletic Director, and Trish McCarron/Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Marcellus Senior High School Student Government representatives included Joelle Orecki/President, Maddie Balman, Ellen Brooks, Jena Anable, and faculty advisor Heidi Busa. Pastor Bill Grosman presented the opening prayer and Brud Wilson thanked picnic coordinator Nancy Seeley for her exhaustive efforts. The highlight of the New Family Picnic was the presence of the Marcellus “Mustang Mascot” and, a special thanks goes out to senior Tim Schneider for bringing joy to families while wearing the mustang costume on a warm September evening. New Family Picnic activities included a delicious dinner (fresh from the grill), the opportunity for family photos with the Mustang Mascot, social/play time, and the introduction of new families by Marcellus Rotary members. This year’s event provided a comfortable evening of warm conversation wrapped in the spirit of community that is the Marcellus Central School District. The evening provides a wonderful beginning as students face the challenge and excitement of entering a new school environment. A very special appreciation goes out to the Marcellus Rotary Club whose members did their usual terrific job of planning the picnic, cooking the food and making sure that Marcellus continues to welcome and embrace its newest family members.