The polls are open for the LoHud Girls Basketball Player of the week! Emilee Doherty from Yonkers Montessori Academy is a nominee. Click the link to view all nominees and cast your vote.

https://shorturl.at/hlFo1
4 months ago, YPS News
LoHud Girls Basketball Player of the Week
During Inclusive Schools Week, Dr. Amy Liszt, Director of Student Support Services, led a powerful conversation with teachers focused on inclusive practices that support students with behavioral challenges. One educator also shared how she intentionally checks in on her students’ mental health—creating a classroom where every student feels safe, supported, and heard. 💙#YonkersMagic
4 months ago, YPS News
Inclusive Schools Week Meeting
Inclusive Schools Week Meeting
Inclusive Schools Week Meeting
Inclusive Schools Week Meeting
✨ Thursday, December 18 is the final PEARLS informational session. Visit PEARLS this Thursday at 9:00 AM to discover why PEARLS is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School. For nearly 40 years, families have chosen PEARLS for its exceptional academically talented program.

This in-person session gives families the opportunity to ask questions and enjoy a guided school tour immediately following, offering a true look at the PEARLS experience.

📅 Application deadline extended to December 19. https://shorturl.at/AD5zL

See you there!
4 months ago, YPS News
PEARLS

✨ Yonkers Public Schools #WeekInReview! ✨
From holiday concerts and dessert receptions to toy drives and pep rallies, our schools were full of #YonkersMagic!

We also recognized incredible staff members whose leadership continues to uplift student achievement.

Click the link in bio to read this week's newsletter!


Have a wonderful weekend!

4 months ago, YPS News
This Week's Newsletter


Today, Yonkers Public Schools proudly celebrates Jeanine Castagna, a dedicated Special Education teacher at Yonkers Early Childhood Academy who was recently recognized by Influential Women for her exceptional commitment, talent, and lasting impact in the classroom.


In her Autism K–2 class, Ms. Castagna builds individualized, multi-modal learning experiences that blend the Next Generation Learning Standards, the Unique Learning System, and each student’s IEP goals. She incorporates visual supports, American Sign Language, music, and hands-on activities—ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed.

Working with students who require moderate to high levels of support, Ms. Castagna leads with compassion and inclusivity, creating a classroom where every student feels seen, understood, and empowered.

She is a model educator and a YSEPTA Spirit Award recipient who truly exemplifies professional excellence. #YonkersMagic

4 months ago, YPS News
Congratulations Ms. Castagna
Please join #YonkersPublicSchools in congratulating Dr. Vasquez, who was recently recognized by the Westchester East-Putnam Regional (WEPR) Director with the Hero in Education award!!

The School 16 PTA nominated her for leading with compassion and steadfast dedication to students, families, and staff. She encourages collaboration, elevates parent voices, and brings enthusiasm to every event — reminding all that strong schools grow from strong partnerships.

✨ Congratulations, Dr. Vasquez!
4 months ago, YPS News
Congratulations  Dr. Vasquez, who was recently recognized by the Westchester East-Putnam Regional (WEPR) Director with the Hero in Education award!

❄️ Students at School 17 brought the Yonkers Magic at this year’s Winter Holiday Concert—sharing talent, joy, and community spirit with every performance. ❤️
4 months ago, YPS News
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The Riverside High School pep rally was absolutely electric! 🎉 Last week’s celebration exploded with spirited competition, tight-knit camaraderie, and unstoppable enthusiasm. Each grade level went all-in for the color wars, and the seniors ultimately claimed victory!

During the rally, the roar of the crowd said it all: every student was cheering, supporting, and celebrating one another with pure excitement for the year ahead. ❤️🖤 #YonkersMagic
4 months ago, YPS News
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✨ Today, community partners from across Yonkers gathered for the Pathways to Success (PTS) Literacy Zone Partners Meeting, sharing their services and how they support PTS four state-designated Literacy Zones. Each zone is home to a Family Welcome Center offering vital resources such as health care support, legal services, housing assistance, and more.

Since 2008, Literacy Zone efforts have delivered more than 1,200 workshops, served over 15,000 community members, and helped over 1,500 Pathways to Success students secure employment.

A powerful reminder of what happens when a community collaborates to build pathways to success. #YonkersMagic

4 months ago, YPS News
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Attention All Students Grades 6-12!
Deadline Extended to December 19, 2025 for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2026 Poem Contest
Details & Submission Forms: https://www.yonkerspublicschools.org/page/mlk-poem-contest-2026
5 months ago, YPS News
Promotional poster for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2026 Poem Contest for Yonkers students in grades 6–12. The poster features a stone sculpture of Dr. King against a blue background, alongside detailed contest information. Headline text reads: ‘Calling All Yonkers Students in Grades 6–12! Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2026 Poem Contest.’ Subheading: ‘Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy Through Creative Expression.’ The poster explains that students are encouraged to submit original poems reflecting themes of justice, courage, and unity.  Submission guidelines: open to Yonkers-resident or Yonkers-enrolled students in grades 6–12; individual entries only; poems must reflect Dr. King’s legacy through themes of justice, courage, or unity; deadline Friday, December 19, 2025; cover page available at www.yonkersny.gov/mlk ; email both cover page and poem to contest@yonkersny.gov . Selected works will be showcased on Thursday, January 8, 2026, where youth will present their poetry and participate in dialogue with community guests. The poster includes a note to contact Dr. Dwanita M. Crosby at Dwanita.Crosby@yonkersny.gov  for questions.  Logos for the City of Yonkers, Mayor Mike Spano, and Yonkers Arts appear at the bottom.

Last week, Cross Hill Academy fifth-grade families shared inspiring parent-engagement ideas at Cross Hill Academy’s Family Friday event.

Parents visited classrooms to see teaching and learning in real time, then wrapped up with a presentation from WJCS licensed clinical social worker, Valerie Sutton and clinical intern, Lea LaGreca on managing holiday stress.

It was meaningful morning of connection, collaboration, and community! 💙 #YonkersMagic

5 months ago, YPS News
Cross Hill Academy Family Friday
Cross Hill Academy Family Friday  2
Cross Hill Academy Family Friday  4
Cross Hill Academy Family Friday 5
Cross Hill Academy Family Friday 6
Friendly reminder, families:

The School Choice Process is open until December 31, and school tours are happening now across all schools.

📝 Plan your school visits and check out the full tour schedule by selecting the link https://aptg.co/0nyNJT
5 months ago, YPS News
School your
School tour

Your voice matters and we’re excited to hear from you! It takes less than 3 minutes to complete the Community Feedback Survey, and your input makes a real impact. The deadline is Friday, January 16.

Click the link and share your insights today!

https://shorturl.at/PxVnB

5 months ago, YPS News
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Happy National Special Education Day!

Today at #YonkersPublicSchools, our Special Education leaders shared the personal stories that inspired their journey in special education. Their stories highlight the power of compassion and advocacy.

To our administrators, teachers, support staff, and exceptional parents — thank you for helping us foster an inclusive and supportive community. 💛
5 months ago, YPS News
Dr. Stephanie McCaskill
Jill Post
Dr. Amy Liszt
Roshan Bhojwani
Kathleen Hagenbuch
Great news!

The deadline to apply to PEARLS has been extended to Friday, December 19th, giving families more time to secure a spot.

PEARLS is designed for academically talented students entering grades Pre-K through 8.

To learn more join us for an informational Zoom session on December 9th at 6:30 PM to explore why PEARLS is the right place for curious, creative, and high-achieving learners.

✨ To apply today, visit https://www.yonkerspublicschools.org/page/academically-talented-programs
5 months ago, YPS News
PEARLS Application Extended to December 19
PEARLS Application Extended to December 19
PEARLS Application extended to December 19

It’s day 2 of December, and this month marks the final stretch of 2025! Let’s soar through it with energy, holiday cheer, and, of course, the #YonkersMagic!

5 months ago, YPS News
December 2025
It’s December! Let’s Prepare for September!
Did you know registration is open for new students? Parents of three-year-olds, it’s time to start planning for PreK-4!

Who’s eligible?
🔹Children born on or before December 1, 2022
🔹Yonkers residents at the time of registration

How to Register:
https://shorturl.at/i0W4a

#YonkersPublicSchools #YonkersMagic
5 months ago, YPS News
Registration is Available
Congratulations to the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Microsociety School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) for receiving the NYS PTA Jamie-Knapp Family Engagement Award! This honor celebrates their exceptional commitment to strengthening collaboration between students, families, and staff.

Through ongoing advocacy, meaningful partnerships, and engaging community events, the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Microsociety School PTA has empowered families to take an active role in shaping their children’s educational experience.

This is #YonkersMagic!
5 months ago, YPS News
Congratulations Hostos!
A military aunt surprised her nephew in class after two years away, and the joy in the room was unforgettable. #YonkersPublicSchools is grateful for our military families and the love they bring to our community. 🇺🇸💛

Happy Thanksgiving !
5 months ago, YPS News
Happy Thanksgiving!
Yonkers Public Schools wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving, filled with peace and joy! All Yonkers Public Schools and Central Office are closed Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28, 2025. #YonkersPublicSchools
5 months ago, YPS News
Happy Thanksgiving