Grade 3 Instrument Selection Begins Tomorrow at 10AM!
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian of 3rd Grade Students,
Your child will become eligible for participation in the Massapequa Instrumental Music Program upon completion of the 3rd grade. We strongly recommend that all students who show potential and interest should enroll in this program as well as the Choral program.
The orchestra and band teachers have been meeting with 3rd grade students, discussing whether your child wishes to be in orchestra or band. You should also have received a letter from your teacher. See the link below to review the letter online.
Visit the Music page on the District Website (link) to view information and complete the Musical Instrument Survey listed under Beginning Band and Orchestra heading. There is a separate form for each building.
Grade 3 Instrument Letter (link)
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We would like to provide a brief update regarding today's statewide computer-based testing interruptions.
This afternoon, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) reported that its testing contractor, NWEA, is still investigating technical issues that affected some schools during today’s assessments. Their team is working overnight to resolve the problem.
NYSED has made clear that the system must be fully operational for tomorrow and will update districts if anything changes.
As a result, we will not be testing tomorrow.
The Grade 5 Science Assessment will be rescheduled for Friday, May 1, 2026.
The Grade 6-8 Math Assessment will continue on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
We recognize how frustrating these disruptions are for students and families, and we share that frustration. Thank you for your patience as the state works to ensure a stable testing environment. We will share any updates as they become available.
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Parents of Grade 3-8 Students,
We are writing to provide an important update regarding the New York State testing that was scheduled for today, April 29, 2026. Unfortunately, NYS encountered another round of technical issues with its online testing platform this morning.
Due to these issues, BOCES instructed us to pause testing for those students experiencing technical difficulties. At the elementary level, our fifth grade students were scheduled for the elementary science assessment and had not begun testing when we were notified. We quickly decided to reschedule for another day to limit the loss of any instructional time given the ongoing technical issues.
At Berner Middle School, many of our students were able to log into the math assessment and actively continued testing. Some students experienced technical difficulties and were unable to continue. The Berner administration and staff quickly responded to the situation, allowing students testing to continue and those not testing to move to another location.
Given these ongoing complications, we are awaiting an update from the New York State Education Department on these technical issues and will update you as soon as we have more information.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
We are writing to provide an important update regarding the New York State testing that was scheduled for today, April 29, 2026. Unfortunately, NYS encountered another round of technical issues with its online testing platform this morning.
Due to these issues, BOCES instructed us to pause testing for those students experiencing technical difficulties. At the elementary level, our fifth grade students were scheduled for the elementary science assessment and had not begun testing when we were notified. We quickly decided to reschedule for another day to limit the loss of any instructional time given the ongoing technical issues.
At Berner Middle School, many of our students were able to log into the math assessment and actively continued testing. Some students experienced technical difficulties and were unable to continue. The Berner administration and staff quickly responded to the situation, allowing students testing to continue and those not testing to move to another location.
Given these ongoing complications, we are awaiting an update from the New York State Education Department on these technical issues and will update you as soon as we have more information.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Parents of Grade 2 Students,
We invite you to read the following communication regarding the CogAT screening (formerly InView) scheduled for the week of May 4, 2026.
Link to Letter: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1b3PS2ad-vYqVna27DZTh5CvS4EsC7jEpM3-Imu_ZmbU/edit?tab=t.0
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Parents and Guardians,
During a scheduled recess period, a vehicle stopped near the perimeter of the school grounds. A few individuals exited the vehicle and were looking at the basketball court from outside the school gates.
Our on-site security team noticed the activity immediately. They approached the individuals, assessed the situation, and followed all standard safety protocols. Security determined that there was no threat to the students or the school.
We are proud of our security team's quick response and the effectiveness of our safety measures. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to the front office.
Best regards,
Dr. Gerhard
During a scheduled recess period, a vehicle stopped near the perimeter of the school grounds. A few individuals exited the vehicle and were looking at the basketball court from outside the school gates.
Our on-site security team noticed the activity immediately. They approached the individuals, assessed the situation, and followed all standard safety protocols. Security determined that there was no threat to the students or the school.
We are proud of our security team's quick response and the effectiveness of our safety measures. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to the front office.
Best regards,
Dr. Gerhard
Dear Fairfield Families & Staff,
Click the link below to access our March Paw Print Press!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p2u-doa7h7NJbWsA2q2cOKjx-QARolQl/view?usp=sharing
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Click the link below to access our March Paw Print Press!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p2u-doa7h7NJbWsA2q2cOKjx-QARolQl/view?usp=sharing
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Dear Fairfield Families,
Please click the link below:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KXPpVA5UKx6Mlm1E_RCF0XzjXJUlGXDJ/view?usp=sharing
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
March 31, 2026
Dear Parents and Guardians,
It has been wonderful to see so many of our students enjoying the fresh air and riding their bikes before and after school hours.
We are writing to kindly remind everyone that there is no school-provided supervision on school grounds before or after school hours.
Recently, it has been reported that students have been playing tackle football on school property during these unsupervised times. We are concerned about the safety of our students, as these types of games carry a high risk of injury when played without adult guidance or the proper oversight to ensure safety rules are followed.
If your child plans to use the school grounds before or after school without a parent or guardian present, please take a moment to have a conversation with them about safety and appropriate behavior.
Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students safe and for your help in reinforcing these expectations at home.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
REMINDER: Dear Parents/Guardians of Students in Grades 3-8,
We invite you to review the linked letter containing important information regarding the NYS Grades 3–8 Assessments.
Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-lBlLEaCDJ0JyJIZ9ssN6HUWC094bKkK/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=116442019154430759621&rtpof=true&sd=true
Thank you,
The Massapequa School District
March 30, 2026
REMINDER
Dear Parents,
Each spring, there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. Since this is a matter that we do not take lightly, Ms. Pavlick and I, working in collaboration with the professional staff, spend countless hours constructing well-balanced classes in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow academically as well as socially.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will eliminate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, a clear set of guidelines is followed. Classes are formed into heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
A full range of aptitudes within each class
An even proportion of abilities and learning styles
Number of students requiring support services
Possible student conflicts
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build classes of children who show promise of working well together. As the process unfolds, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher style while taking into consideration the professional judgment of those educators working with your child.
We welcome your input concerning your child’s individual learning needs; we trust you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors considered during the process. The final decision on class placements must reside with the school, and requests for specific teachers cannot be honored. If there are special considerations you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share those by filling out the form below by March 31st. Please do not assume that past history or concerns will automatically be addressed during placement if you do not fill out the form.
Optional Google Form for Placement
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard
Dr. Gerhard
Principal
REMINDER
Dear Parents,
Each spring, there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. Since this is a matter that we do not take lightly, Ms. Pavlick and I, working in collaboration with the professional staff, spend countless hours constructing well-balanced classes in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow academically as well as socially.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will eliminate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, a clear set of guidelines is followed. Classes are formed into heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
A full range of aptitudes within each class
An even proportion of abilities and learning styles
Number of students requiring support services
Possible student conflicts
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build classes of children who show promise of working well together. As the process unfolds, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher style while taking into consideration the professional judgment of those educators working with your child.
We welcome your input concerning your child’s individual learning needs; we trust you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors considered during the process. The final decision on class placements must reside with the school, and requests for specific teachers cannot be honored. If there are special considerations you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share those by filling out the form below by March 31st. Please do not assume that past history or concerns will automatically be addressed during placement if you do not fill out the form.
Optional Google Form for Placement
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard
Dr. Gerhard
Principal
March 30, 2026
REMINDER.....
Dear Parents,
Each spring, there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. Since this is a matter that we do not take lightly, Ms. Pavlick and I, working in collaboration with the professional staff, spend countless hours constructing well-balanced classes in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow academically as well as socially.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will eliminate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, a clear set of guidelines is followed. Classes are formed into heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
A full range of aptitudes within each class
An even proportion of abilities and learning styles
Number of students requiring support services
Possible student conflicts
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build classes of children who show promise of working well together. As the process unfolds, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher style while taking into consideration the professional judgment of those educators working with your child.
We welcome your input concerning your child’s individual learning needs; we trust you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors considered during the process. The final decision on class placements must reside with the school, and requests for specific teachers cannot be honored. If there are special considerations you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share those by filling out the form below by March 31st. Please do not assume that past history or concerns will automatically be addressed during placement if you do not fill out the form.
Optional Placement Form
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard
Dr. Gerhard
Principal
Dear Elementary Parents/Guardians,
Elementary report cards will be available on the Parent Portal today 3/20 at 4:00PM. To access your child’s report card:
Sign in to the Parent Portal Web - https://msdps.powerschool.com/public (Report Cards not available through the Parent Portal App)
Click the Student Reports icon located in the navigation menu.
Under Archived Reports, select the report card.
If you need help accessing your Parent Portal account, please use the “Forgot Username or Forgot Password” link. If you continue to experience issues, email our PowerSchool support team at powerschool@msd.k12.ny.us. For questions about classes or grades, please contact your child’s teacher.
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Parents,
Each spring, there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. Since this is a matter that we do not take lightly, Ms. Pavlick and I, working in collaboration with the professional staff, spend countless hours constructing well-balanced classes in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow academically as well as socially.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will eliminate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, a clear set of guidelines is followed. Classes are formed into heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
A full range of aptitudes within each class
An even proportion of abilities and learning styles
Number of students requiring support services
Possible student conflicts
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build classes of children who show promise of working well together. As the process unfolds, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher style while taking into consideration the professional judgment of those educators working with your child.
We welcome your input concerning your child’s individual learning needs; we trust you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors considered during the process. The final decision on class placements must reside with the school, and requests for specific teachers cannot be honored. If there are special considerations you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share those by filling out the form below by March 31st. Please do not assume that past history or concerns will automatically be addressed during placement if you do not fill out the form.
Optional Google Form for Placement: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1KySiTaZszb77W8mewUNZkVXDHXKV4-D68PIQfw_cPQ0/edit
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard
Dr. Gerhard
Principal
__________
Each spring, there is considerable discussion about placing children in classes for the next school year. Since this is a matter that we do not take lightly, Ms. Pavlick and I, working in collaboration with the professional staff, spend countless hours constructing well-balanced classes in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow academically as well as socially.
It is hoped that a frank review of our procedures for class placement of students will eliminate the need for parents to individualize their concerns or make requests for specific teachers.
When classes are structured, a clear set of guidelines is followed. Classes are formed into heterogeneous groups with the following in mind:
A full range of aptitudes within each class
An even proportion of abilities and learning styles
Number of students requiring support services
Possible student conflicts
Once these factors have been considered, teachers begin to build classes of children who show promise of working well together. As the process unfolds, attempts are made to match pupil and teacher style while taking into consideration the professional judgment of those educators working with your child.
We welcome your input concerning your child’s individual learning needs; we trust you understand that your comments constitute just one of the many factors considered during the process. The final decision on class placements must reside with the school, and requests for specific teachers cannot be honored. If there are special considerations you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share those by filling out the form below by March 31st. Please do not assume that past history or concerns will automatically be addressed during placement if you do not fill out the form.
Optional Google Form for Placement: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1KySiTaZszb77W8mewUNZkVXDHXKV4-D68PIQfw_cPQ0/edit
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard
Dr. Gerhard
Principal
__________
Dear Parents/Guardians of Students in Grades 3-8,
We invite you to review the linked letter containing important information regarding the NYS Grades 3–8 Assessments.
Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-lBlLEaCDJ0JyJIZ9ssN6HUWC094bKkK/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=116442019154430759621&rtpof=true&sd=true
Thank you,
The Massapequa School District
We invite you to review the linked letter containing important information regarding the NYS Grades 3–8 Assessments.
Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-lBlLEaCDJ0JyJIZ9ssN6HUWC094bKkK/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=116442019154430759621&rtpof=true&sd=true
Thank you,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Fairfield Families & Staff,
Click the link below to access our February Paw Print Press!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PrEhn0bxzwMkesKlMLrm9mERa5_Gwyi5/view?usp=sharing
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Click the link below to access our February Paw Print Press!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PrEhn0bxzwMkesKlMLrm9mERa5_Gwyi5/view?usp=sharing
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Dear Fairfield Staff & Families,
Please see the flyer regarding P.A.R.P. spirit week this week, March 2nd-March 6th.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eW0mgGVzC80O99nxQvTITf88a3RuhpvB/view?usp=sharing
Thank you,
Dr. Gerhard, Ms. Pavlick & Fairfield's PTA P.A.R.P. Committee
Please see the flyer regarding P.A.R.P. spirit week this week, March 2nd-March 6th.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eW0mgGVzC80O99nxQvTITf88a3RuhpvB/view?usp=sharing
Thank you,
Dr. Gerhard, Ms. Pavlick & Fairfield's PTA P.A.R.P. Committee
Dear Fairfield Families,
At Fairfield, we know that the strongest support system for our students is the partnership between home and school. That’s why we are so excited about the 3rd Annual Parent University on Wednesday, March 4th.
This is a chance to connect with other local families, grab some fresh insights from educators, and chat about how we can best support our kids in today's world.
When: Wednesday, March 4th | 6:30 PM
Where: AMES School Campus
Register Here: www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentu
For full details on workshops and the evening’s schedule, visit www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentuniversity. We can’t wait to see the Fairfield community there!
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
At Fairfield, we know that the strongest support system for our students is the partnership between home and school. That’s why we are so excited about the 3rd Annual Parent University on Wednesday, March 4th.
This is a chance to connect with other local families, grab some fresh insights from educators, and chat about how we can best support our kids in today's world.
When: Wednesday, March 4th | 6:30 PM
Where: AMES School Campus
Register Here: www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentu
For full details on workshops and the evening’s schedule, visit www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentuniversity. We can’t wait to see the Fairfield community there!
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Dear Parents/Guardians,
There’s still time to sign up for the 3rd Annual Parent University hosted by the Massapequa School District!
Join us on Wednesday, March 4th - 6:30 PM at the AMES School Campus for a special evening that brings parents and educators together for learning, connection, and meaningful conversation about supporting our students both at home and in school.
Registration is still open, and we encourage you to secure your spot today. Please review the informational flyer or visit www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentuniversity for complete details, including keynote session information, workshop descriptions, and student activity room offerings.
Register today: www.msd.k12.ny.us/parentu
We look forward to seeing you for an evening of partnership, learning, and community.
Sincerely,
The Massapequa School District
Dear Fairfield Families,
We are so happy to have everyone back! I am writing to provide a quick update regarding our Book Fair schedule.
Due to the recent closure, all students who were originally scheduled to visit the Book Fair on Tuesday, February 24th, will now attend on Friday, February 27th.
To accommodate this change, the PTA will be sending out a new Sign-Up Genius link shortly for volunteers. We appreciate your flexibility and continued support in making this event a success for our students.
Have a wonderful day!
Best regards,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
We are so happy to have everyone back! I am writing to provide a quick update regarding our Book Fair schedule.
Due to the recent closure, all students who were originally scheduled to visit the Book Fair on Tuesday, February 24th, will now attend on Friday, February 27th.
To accommodate this change, the PTA will be sending out a new Sign-Up Genius link shortly for volunteers. We appreciate your flexibility and continued support in making this event a success for our students.
Have a wonderful day!
Best regards,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
Dear Parents/Guardians of Kindergarten Students,
We are excited to inform you that the LI Herald will be showcasing our Kindergarten classes in a special K Kids Edition! This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to be featured in the newspaper.
The LI Herald will be visiting Fairfield on Tuesday, March 3rd to take pictures of all our Kindergarten classes and their teachers. Each child will also answer the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Please note that the paper only uses first names and does not place names near the pictures of the children.
If your child is camera-shy or you prefer they not participate, please let us know, and we will ensure they are not included in the photos.
Thank you for your support!
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick
We are excited to inform you that the LI Herald will be showcasing our Kindergarten classes in a special K Kids Edition! This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to be featured in the newspaper.
The LI Herald will be visiting Fairfield on Tuesday, March 3rd to take pictures of all our Kindergarten classes and their teachers. Each child will also answer the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Please note that the paper only uses first names and does not place names near the pictures of the children.
If your child is camera-shy or you prefer they not participate, please let us know, and we will ensure they are not included in the photos.
Thank you for your support!
Sincerely,
Dr. Gerhard & Ms. Pavlick