Dear Onteora Middle School Families,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year. There is a certain energy to the start of the year at OMS — organizing school supplies, receiving new schedules, and setting new goals. Whether your child is stepping into 6th grade for the very first time or returning as a seasoned 7th or 8th grader, this is a year built for growth, and we are honored to walk it alongside you.
Starting or returning to middle school is a big leap, and we want every step to feel exciting rather than overwhelming. We open the year with an intentional focus on relationships and routines — the foundation everything else is built on. Families have many chances to connect with us throughout the year, including 6th Grade Orientation, our fall Open House, and Parent–Teacher Conferences, our dedicated time for parents and teachers to have the conversations that help students grow.
A few dates to know as the year begins:
- 6th Grade Orientation — Thursday, August 27, 4:30–6:30 PM
- First Day of School — Tuesday, September 8
- Open House — Thursday, September 17, 6:00 PM
- Parent–Teacher Conferences — Monday & Tuesday, November 9 & 10
We are also committed to a distraction-free school. All middle school students are expected to silence their cell phones and store them in their lockers from arrival to dismissal. We’ve seen the difference this makes at OMS — sharper focus in class, stronger friendships in the halls, and a more connected community overall. Thank you for standing with us on this.
If a question comes up, please reach out. You can call the Middle School Office at (845) 657-2373, ext. 2210, or email dsolimene@onteora.k12.ny.us. Here’s to a year of learning, growth, and genuine connection at Onteora Middle School.
Sincerely,
Dr. Don N. Solimene
