District News

From the earliest learners to the rising leaders of Lancaster High School, the longstanding tradition of students stepping up to improve the school community and leave a legacy for future generations is woven into the fabric of the Lancaster Central School District.

“I really want to make an impact on my school, and I love having administrators help us reach our leadership goals,” said Caitlin Sinclair, a sophomore who serves on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC). “I feel that every proposal we make, they’re taking it into consideration.”

These opportunities include leadership clubs and activities like reading the announcements at the elementary level; classes and clubs for leadership at William Street School and Lancaster Middle School; and the High School’s Leadership Academy and groups like the Student Union, Students Working to Improve the School Setting (S.W.I.S.S.) and SSAC. Additionally, students will now have the opportunity to become a non-voting member of the District’s Board of Education, giving them even more chances to shape the school experience.

“The kids will always surprise us when the expectations are high. They’ll think of things we’ve never thought of,” said Stephanie Lackie, Middle School Principal. “It’s energizing for us as adults to see how students flourish and see what they’re motivated by.”

At the SSAC meeting on March 25, students were given updates from Superintendent Dr. Andrew Kufel on a wide range of topics around learning strategies and safety, along with trending issues like the future of school traditions around the Lancaster-Depew football game and potential legislation from Albany that would restrict cell phone usage for students. When asked why they wanted to be on the council, students said they valued the chance to support others and stay informed. Noah Okeke, a junior, said he wanted to make the school a better place for students like his brother, a freshman. “What am I leaving behind for kids that are younger than me?” Noah said.

Junior Meriam Alaouie said she liked to understand the background of why decisions at the district were made. “It’s nice to be able to know the reasoning, and not just sit there and say ‘Just because,’” she said. The meeting included a wide range of school officials, from building leadership to School Resource Officers, to buildings and grounds and the district’s food service leadership. For Mary Marcinelli, Como Park Elementary School Principal, attending the meeting was a chance to see some of her former students in a new light.

“What is so exciting about seeing them at this age is that they are contributing citizens with ideas and they use their critical thinking skills,” Marcinelli said.

Later that day, a growing number of students attended a candidate interest meeting for the Lancaster High School Student Union, which creates events and activities that generate school spirit, pride and participation. Mark Skowron, LHS Coordinator of Student Affairs, said that five years ago, there were barely enough applicants to fill leadership roles in the organization. This year, 18 students have applied for six positions. “We need people to lead, so thank you for coming out here,” Skowron told students.

The Student Union’s work has drawn national praise for years, and was named for the High School Student Union Gold Council of Excellence Award for the 20th year in a row by the National Association of Student Councils. More than the accolades, Skowron’s appreciation for leadership comes from his own experience as a student at Lancaster High School. Skowron is a former Student Union president, as well as a member of the SSAC, which generated opportunities for him to attend regional and national leadership events as a student. As a teacher, and program coordinator, he has the ability to share those experiences with the future leaders from Lancaster. “It changed my trajectory for the better,” he said. “It’s important to give the opportunities for students to take the lead.”

This feature was published as part of the 2025-26 Budget Newsletter. To read the full newsletter, visit https://bit.ly/4j1n3pK