Cooke’s top readers test out new book vending machine

The George L. Cooke Elementary School celebrated its top readers in the Sullivan BOCES Reading Challenge yesterday. The winners (students and staff) each received a certificate showing their achievement and received a book from the school’s new book vending machine. Pictured: Jenny Varghese Ameliana Smalls Cole Alvarez Isabella Kern Leia Jean-Francois Joshua Lumbila Not Pictured: …

Cooke hosts first-ever theatrical performance with original play

On the evening of June 11, George L. Cooke Elementary School made history as it hosted its first-ever theatrical performance, Flourish: The Secret Garden Songbook- an original play written and produced by second-grade teacher Joana Dutcher. The event marked a joyful and artistic milestone for the 86 students, who made up the talented and enthusiastic …

Monticello Kiwanis distributes books to Cooke second graders

Article and photo courtesy of Sheila Lashinsky, Monticello Kiwanis  Club  Publicity Chairperson On Monday, June 9, members of the Kiwanis Club of Monticello visited the George L. Cooke Elementary School for a Reading Assembly and book distribution to ten second grade classes. The books were selected by Doris Motl, retired fourth grade teacher and Monticello …

Cooke students log 693 books, place third in county-wide reading challenge

The Sullivan BOCES Reading Challenge is complete for the 24-25 school year. We are beyond proud of the students and staff who stepped up to the challenge and are amazed at their dedication to this year-long event. George L. Cooke Elementary School placed third in their division. Not only did they beat their reading goal, …

Cooke Spartan Club will race June 7

Good luck to the incredible Cooke School Spartan Club as they take on the Spartan Race this Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, NY! This inspiring group, founded this school year by second grade teacher Joana Dutcher and teaching assistant Billie Waterton, has shown amazing spirit, teamwork, and …

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 …