Free summer meals available to all children in Monticello

The Monticello Central School District is once again participating in the USDA Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), ensuring that all children 18 years of age and under have access to nutritious meals during the summer months—free of charge. Meals will be available at several locations throughout the district. No registration or proof of income is …

Families cook up connection at EPIC Parent Café’s Virtual Quiche Night

On Wednesday, April 23, families across the Monticello Central School District came together for a fun and flavorful evening during the EPIC (Every Person Influences Children) Parent Café’s virtual cooking class. “Chef” Jane Sorensen, EPIC Family Engagement Program Manager, led a live demonstration on how to make a spinach, mushroom, and Swiss cheese quiche. Participants …

Cooke STEAM Committee hosts falconer presentation

On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, the George L. Cooke Elementary School STEAM Committee hosted a special assembly featuring local falconer Brian Bunce. The event introduced students to the ancient art of falconry and provided a unique, hands-on learning experience. Mr. Bunce brought two falcons and two owls for the presentation. Each bird was securely tethered to …

Cooke’s STEAM Night brings families out for a night of fun

391 George L. Cooke Elementary School students and their families had a fantastically fun evening during the school’s nature-themed STEAM Night on March 18. Staff led science experiments in the gymnasium. Students created a volcano, made a snowstorm in a jar, used milk and food dye to simulate the Northern Lights, and stuck their hands …

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a special storytime

On March 17,  Elementary Director Keith Petzinger, joined Ms. Davila’s 1st Grade for a special St. Patrick’s Day read aloud! With his festive green tie, he shared an exciting story about luck, engineering, and a little leprechaun mischief. The students loved listening and joining in on the fun as they celebrated with laughter and learning! …

Author Daniel Jude Miller visits Cooke Elementary School to kick off Make A Monster project

Author and Illustrator Daniel Jude Miller visited the George L. Cooke Elementary School, where he discussed his experiences with writing, illustrating and designing.  He read his books, told funny stories, and shared his life experiences with the students. It was a funny, exciting, and engaging event for the students. At the end of his presentation, …

Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation funds new Cooke Cares Closet

In November 2024, the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation met with the George L. Cooke Backpack Program coordinator, and second grade teacher, Joana Dutcher. Ms. Dutcher explained the goals of the backpack program and what ways the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation can help. The result of this conversation was the creation of the Cooke Cares Closet. …

Registration for SJS Community Preschool will take place during April

Español Pre-school registration  Monticello families with three and four-year old children may register for the St. John Street Community School Preschool program on school days during the month of April. Your child does not need to accompany you to register. Step 1: Interested parents must call the registrar’s office at at (845) 794-7700, ext. 78905 …