Upcoming Parent Information Series Sessions

  • Internet Safety and Human Trafficking

    As digital device use among youth continues to grow, it’s important for families to stay informed about online safety. The Orchard Park Central School District’s Parent Information Series will present, “Internet Safety and Human Trafficking,” to provide parents and community members with valuable guidance on protecting children from potential online risks.

    This informative session will cover internet safety, social media awareness, and proactive strategies for fostering a safe online environment. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of human trafficking and learn actionable steps parents can take to protect their children.

    The presentation will be led by Julie Palmer, Executive Director of PATH Inc. (People Against Trafficking Humans) and founder of the PATH Enrichment Center. With over 25 years of experience in mental health, Julie Palmer holds a Master’s degree from the University at Buffalo in Counseling and Educational Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Fredonia State. Her extensive background includes serving as an instructor for the BOCES Teacher Center and completing prestigious programs such as the Trauma Informed Care Champion Learning Collaborative through the University at Buffalo, a Harvard Business School Not-for-Profit Management Program course, the Homeland Security Investigations Citizens Academy (2019), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Academy (2022).

    Please join us for this important discussion on promoting online safety and well-being for our children and community. The free presentation will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Orchard Park High School Auditorium, located at 4040 Baker Road.

    Internet Safety Flyer



     

     

     

     

Previous Parent Information Series Sessions

  • The Science of Reading 📖
    The Parent Information Series event on March 4, 2025, at Orchard Park Middle School, was presented by The Reading League. This event welcomed parents, community members, and staff to learn about the science of reading, the research behind how the brain learns to read, and the shifts happening in literacy education. Attendees also gained practical tips for supporting literacy at home and received expert advice on helping struggling readers thrive. We appreciate your participation in this valuable opportunity to empower children’s reading journeys. This event was held in person and was not recorded. 

    State of the District 
    Explore our State of the District presentation linked below to see how we are advancing student success through our District Comprehensive Improvement Plan. Learn how the Science of Reading is shaping K-6 education, discover transformative diploma pathways, and stay informed on key topics such as regionalization, NYS learning standards, safety initiatives, and inclusive programming. Additionally, see how community partnerships and family engagement are fostering a thriving learning environment. Stay up to date with these essential updates and important dates for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year. 

    Teen Dating Violence & Healthy Relationships 
    The Rachael Warrior Foundation, in partnership with Child and Family Services, will provided a Virtual Presentation to parents and community members about Teen Dating Violence/Healthy Relationships.  Teen dating violence affects 1 in 3 U.S. teens, with nearly 1.5 million high school students experiencing physical abuse by dating partners annually.  Tragically, Rachael Wierzbicki, a 2014 OPHS graduate dedicated to helping others, was killed by her partner in 2018 at just 22 years old. In her honor, the foundation works to educate the community, support survivors of domestic violence, and equip parents and community members with tools to recognize warning signs, assist those in need, and foster healthy relationships.  To view the recorded presentation access the video below.

Teen Dating Violence & Healthy Relationships, February 2025

State of the District, January 2025