Dear Parents, Students, and Community Members:

It’s hard to believe that we are already into October! The first month of school has flown by, and I want to thank everyone for the positive start to the 2026-2027 school year. As we settle into our routines, I am encouraged by the energy, effort, and sense of community I have seen throughout the Middle School.

One of my goals as Middle School Principal is to be visible and accessible to our students. You may have noticed me spending less time behind my desk and more time in the hallways, classrooms, cafeteria, and other common areas. I believe that being present in these spaces helps me get to know our students better, recognize their successes, and address concerns before they become larger problems. Middle school is an important time for students to develop independence, responsibility, and confidence, and I want to make sure we are providing the support and expectations they need to do so.

As we move into October, I encourage each parent to take a few minutes with your student and help them reflect on how the first month of school has gone. The beginning of a school year is a natural time to establish habits and routines, but the ones we establish are not always the best. Students might consider:

• Am I putting forth my best effort in each class?
• Am I keeping track of my assignments and completing my work on time?
• Am I treating my teachers and classmates with respect?
• Am I making good choices when I am in the hallway, cafeteria, classroom, and other common areas?
• Am I taking advantage of opportunities to participate in clubs, sports, and other activities?
• Is there something I could change now that would help me have a more successful school year?

Please continue to ask your child about school - not just what they learned, but how they are doing, who they are spending time with, what they are enjoying, and whether they are experiencing any challenges. These regular conversations can help students recognize both their successes and the areas where they may need additional support.

We also want to continue working together to reinforce three important areas: academics, behavior, and attendance. Consistent attendance, respectful behavior, and a strong work ethic provide the foundation for student success. Please help us by encouraging your child to attend school regularly, arrive prepared to learn, complete assignments, and take responsibility for their choices.

Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of being connected to our school community. Whether through athletics, clubs, music, service opportunities, or other activities, being involved gives students an opportunity to develop friendships, discover interests, build confidence, and contribute to the Lowville Middle School community. There is a place for every student to be involved, and I encourage our students to find theirs.

Thank you for the continued support you provide to your children and to Lowville Middle School. The partnership between home and school is an important part of helping our students grow as learners, but also as responsible, respectful, and well-rounded young people.

I look forward to a great October and to continuing to work together throughout the 2026-2027 school year.

Go Raiders!

Abel Larkin
Middle School Principal
Lowville Academy & Central School