Back to School Resources & Supports

September 22, 2026     

Dear Parents/Guardians,     

As we welcome students and families back for a new school year, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our parents and caregivers. Your support, partnership, and guidance have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and successful start to the school year.

The beginning of a school year brings new opportunities for learning, friendships, and personal growth. It can also bring periods of adjustment, stress, or uncertainty for students and families. At Carmel Central School District, we remain committed to supporting the academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs of every student. I am pleased to share our Parent Guide: Back-to-School Resources & Supports for Families. This resource was developed through a partnership between the Carmel Central School District, the Prevention Council of Putnam, and the Carmel Communities That Care Coalition. Together, we are committed to providing families with practical information, prevention resources, and access to support when it is needed.

The guide includes helpful back-to-school strategies, information about school-based and community support, and trusted resources for parents and caregivers. It also identifies contacts within the District who can assist students and families with concerns related to emotional wellness, peer relationships, conflict, substance-use prevention, and other challenges that may affect a student’s success in school.

We encourage families to review the guide and keep it available throughout the year. Early communication and connection to support can make an important difference for a child or adolescent who may be experiencing difficulty.

Please remember that you are not alone. If you have concerns about your child’s academic progress, social adjustment, emotional well-being, or mental health, please contact your child’s school. Our faculty, staff, and community partners are available to listen, help, and connect families with appropriate resources.

Thank you to the Prevention Council of Putnam and the Carmel Communities That Care Coalition for their continued partnership and dedication to the children and families of our community.

I am confident that through our collaboration that we can help ensure that every Carmel student feels safe, supported, connected, and prepared to learn.

Sincerely,

Michael Plotkin
Superintendent of Schools, CCSD