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FCSD District Update: Flybys, SOARing and Dragons in a Bag!

Posted Date: 9/28/25 (5:30 PM)

FCSD District Update

A young boy smiles while swinging on a playground swing.

Monthly news and updates from the desk of the Superintendent

A Note from the Superintendent

As we settle into the new school year, I want to extend my gratitude to our incredible students, dedicated families, and hardworking staff for an outstanding start to the 2025-2026 academic year. Our classrooms and buildings are alive and buzzing with energy, and it has been wonderful to witness our students actively engaged in their learning. We are excited to see this positive momentum continue throughout the school year!

I hope that our families have had the opportunity to connect with their child’s teachers and become familiar with the many support staff members we have in place to ensure every student thrives. We believe that a strong partnership between our families and school is crucial for providing the best possible support for our students. Please continue to monitor your child’s progress and do not hesitate to reach out to our staff with any questions or concerns. I am confident that this collaborative spirit between our teachers and parents will lead to a successful school year for all.

I look forward to continuing to meet all of you as our school year unfolds.

Doug Lawrence
FCSD Superintendent of Schools
A smiling man with glasses and a blue suit poses for a portrait.
 

What's new in Fulton?

A teacher leans over two students in a brightly lit classroom.

Open Houses start the year with community

With the beginning of the new academic year, FCSD schools opened their doors in a series of Open Houses, welcoming Fulton families to meet with staff, explore learning environments and learn about great community resources. Our final open house at Fairgrieve Elementary begins at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30.
A group of young people smile at the camera, possibly at an event.

Fulton Flybys give new look into FCSD

This summer, FCSD was proud to introduce FULTON FLYBYS, a new video series bringing helpful news and tips every week -- all in under a minute! Get ready to learn more about the exceptional programs and people of the Fulton City School District. Don't blink... You might just miss something amazing!

Flyby videos are available on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and our district website!
Click here for Fulton Flybys!
A young girl intently reads a cookbook, with another person nearby.

FCSD Students begin community read

Thanks to our friends at Constellation Energy, Fulton elementary students will soon begin reading Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott as part of an exciting campaign to celebrate the joy of reading. Each student will receive a free copy of the book and are encouraged to read with family through a 15-day schedule. At school, students can win prizes by answering trivia questions, enjoy spirit days and participate in lots of other exciting activities!
Book cover for 'Dragons in a Bag' featuring a young boy and dragons.
A reading schedule for 'Dragons in a Bag' with a book cover illustration and a friendly dragon mascot.
 

FCSD SOARS into a new year

This year, FCSD students and staff will work together to SOAR in the classroom and beyond. Our Red Dragons will be able to show:

  • SELF CONTROL: Red Dragons show self-control by making thoughtful choices -- even when it’s hard. Whether it’s staying calm during a disagreement or waiting their turn, Fulton students rise above challenges with focus and maturity.

  • ON-TASK BEHAVIOR: Fulton Red Dragons stay on-task by staying focused and giving their best effort during learning time. They avoid distractions, follow directions, and keep their minds set on reaching their goals—showing the true determination of a Red Dragon.

  • ACHIEVEMENT: Achievement for a Red Dragon means setting goals and working hard to reach them. Whether it's mastering a new math skill or helping a classmate, Fulton students celebrate progress and push themselves to be their best.

  • RESPECT: Red Dragons lead with respect by treating everyone—classmates, teachers, and themselves—with kindness and dignity. In the Fulton City School District, respect fuels a positive, inclusive environment where all can thrive.
A group of people watch a rocket launch, with a smoke trail against a cloudy sky.
 
A group of young girls smile and pose for a photo, some with arms crossed.

Upcoming Dates to Remember

  • SEPTEMBER 30 - Fairgrieve Open House (5 p.m.)
  • OCTOBER 3 - 5 Weeks Ends (Grades 7-12)
  • OCTOBER 10 - 5 Week Progress Reports sent via ParentSquare (Grades 7-12)
  • OCTOBER 13 - NO SCHOOL, Indigenous People's Day/Columbus Day (All buildings closed)
  • OCTOBER 31 - PK-12 EARLY RELEASE DAY
 

Attendance Matters!

Did you know that regularly missing just TWO days of school per month means that your child is missing 10% of the overall school year?

This year, let's make attendance a priority -- learning happens in the classroom!

A green circle with the words 'Attendance MATTERS!' and a red dragon illustration.
 
The words 'FULTON CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT' are displayed in bold red text.

Fulton City School District

(315) 593-5500
129 Curtis Street
Fulton, NY 13069