Parent University

Parenting and educating today’s students, while demanding, is undoubtedly, one of life’s most important pursuits. The Valley Central School District seeks to support our families and community members through Parent University, with resources and free, informative programs through Parent Circle,  and community forums such as VC 21. 

Parent University recognizes that behind each successful student are supportive families, teachers, school staff and community members who take an active role in educating all of our students. No matter what your role, Parent University encourages involvement and participation in the education of the community’s students.

Second Cup of Coffee

A Second Cup of Coffee is an opportunity for members of the VC community to meet with district administrators in an informal setting to discuss any questions, suggestions or offer feedback about district matters.  This is a rotating event throughout the year, typically during school drop-off times as part of the district’s effort to facilitate ongoing discussion between our administration team and the greater VC community.  Dates are announced on our website and Facebook page.  These opportunities will return when it has been deemed safe for us to resume them. 

VC21 meetings

VC21  is an open community conversation about the Valley Central School District and the Educational Future of our Students. VC21 meetings are held throughout the school year to encourage community input about what is being taught at Valley Central.  Meetings dates and times are posted on our website news and social media.

Valley Central Community and School-Based Racial Equity in Education Committee

This purpose of the Valley Central Community and School-Based Racial Equity in Education Committee to better understand and respond to the issues of racism that exist in society and at Valley Central. We empathize with the community and condemn hatred, injustice, and destruction at all levels.  The Valley Central School District wants nothing more than to engage with one another and collaboratively design learning environments that will be liberating for all.

Parent Circle Workshops

Parent Circle workshops are held throughout the year at VCSD and open to all VCSD residents.   

10 Ways To Help Your Child Have A Positive Attitude

• Build your child’s self-esteem by giving frequent hugs and words of praise. Urge your child to take pride in efforts as well as achievements. 
  
• Encourage optimism in every situation. Help your child see mistakes as opportunities to learn, and obstacles as exciting challenges.
• Make sure your child knows you’re always available to talk. Ask about school every day and listen with your full attention.
• Teach your child healthy ways to manage stress. Talking to a trusted friend, playing with a pet, reading or enjoying a hobby are just a few options.
• Help your child appreciate life’s pleasures. Go to fun events together, play games, and watch funny movies. Enjoy each other and laugh as much as possible.
• Prompt your child to brighten the lives of others by doing things like making surprise gifts for friends or volunteering in the community.
  
• Ensure that your child eats a balanced diet with plenty of whole grains,fresh fruits, and vegetables.
• Emphasize the value of exercise and rest. Physical activity relieves stress, boosts energy, and is a natural mood lifter. Adequate sleep prepares your child for each new day.
• Urge your child to seek out upbeat friends. They’ll have an impact on your child’s outlook.
• Do your best to stay positive and model the attitude you want your child to have. Your child learns from watching you.

Bullying Prevention 

Stay involved in your child’s life. Keep the communication open, ask questions, and talk to your child about what’s happening in school or online. Start a discussion about bullying, and make sure your child knows what it is and that it’s unacceptable on any level.

Look for warning signs that your child has been bullied, like depression, anxiety, isolated or withdrawn behavior, or complaints that he/she doesn’t want to go to school.

Make sure children understand that bullying and cyberbullying have the same effects. Just because someone bullies via the internet doesn’t mean it’s less hurtful, and kids may not see that connection.

Keep track of what internet or social sites your child visits and know their passwords. But don’t spy on your child or they will lose trust in you if you confront them.

Be aware of who your child’s friends are online and off. If you find out your child is being bullied online, don’t deny them access to the computer. Find out where it’s happening and how, get a school counselor or teacher involved, and let your child know that you will support them.

If you find out your child is the bully, find out what the underlying problem is. Maybe he/she has been bullied since bullying can often be a result of being bullied. Try to solve the core issue together, and make sure there is zero-tolerance for bullying of any kind. Finally, try to have your child make amends with anyone they have bullied.