Updates

Good Morning, today is Monday, November 17, and today is day 5.

• Have you thought about being a teacher? Want to hear from some of Lancaster's teachers about the profession? Future Teachers is hosting a Teacher Discussion Panel on Thursday Nov 20th after school in room 134. Come find out what this job is really all about. Everyone is welcome!
• Students for a Better World is holding a Food Drive through Nov 21st. Drop off Bins are located by the Main Office and North Entrance. Check Flyers around the school for needed food items! Thank you!
• Legendary Looks is having a pop-up on Monday, November 17th in the Junior Hall outside the Cyber Cafe! Come shop for FREE periods 1-8. We can't wait to see you there!
• Rocket Club will meet Tuesday November 18th after school in room 126
• Club pictures for the yearbook are taking place Monday,November 17 through Wednesday, November 19th. Please check with your advisor on the time and date for your club!
• Carson Z placed 15th out of 108 runners in the Class A Boys State Cross Country Championship Meet! Carson earned a medal & won the Section 6 Class A Boys Sportsmanship Award! Carson will next compete at the Federation Cross Country Championship Meet! Congratulations Carson!
• Charlotte W placed 28th & Mallory A placed 97th in the Class A Girls State Cross Country Championship Meet! Congratulations Charlotte & Mallory! Based on her performance at States, Charlotte earned a spot to compete at the Federation Cross Country Championship Meet! Congratulations Charlotte!!
• The November Student Union meeting will be held 3rd period on Tuesday, November 18th.  Please see our google classroom for the agenda.

Good Morning, today is Wednesday, November 12, and today is day 2.

• Today is recycling. Teachers please have your blue bins and bottle boxes out in the hall by the start of 5th period. Thank you.
• Attention Seal of Biliteracy Applicants, Speaking evaluations will begin Monday November 17. Today is the last day to schedule your Speaking Evaluation Appointment. Use the link on Google Classroom under Application Speaking scheduling to reserve your slot.
• Attention Seniors- if you haven't applied to college, college admission representatives will be available on Wednesday, November 12th from 8:30 - 1:30 in the Music Hall for possible instant admission into their institution.
• Any freshman who signed up to try out for basketball, whether it's at the freshman or JV level, should attend a mandatory meeting Thursday, November 13th after school in room 222. Again, this meeting is mandatory.
• Would you like to spread the gift of warmth??? BLOCK L is holding a winter coat drive all this week. Please bring any gently used fall or winter coats to room 202 or room 128 by this Friday, November 14th.
• Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Volleyball team for their 3-0 win over Williamsville North Saturday. The team will play Clarence next for the Section VI Championship this Friday at 5pm at Maryvale HS.
• Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Soccer team on winning their Regionals game against Fairport this last weekend! They are now Regional Champions and moving on to States this coming weekend! Good luck girls!!
• Students for a Better World is holding a Food Drive from Nov 10-21st. Drop off Bins are located by the Main Office and North Entrance. Check Flyers around the school for needed food items! Thank you!

Good Morning, today is Thursday, November 13, and today is day 3.

• Any freshman who signed up to try out for basketball, whether it's at the freshman or JV level, should attend a mandatory meeting Thursday, November 13th after school in room 222. Again, this meeting is mandatory.
• Would you like to spread the gift of warmth??? BLOCK L is holding a winter coat drive all this week. Please bring any gently used fall or winter coats to room 202 or room 128 by this Friday, November 14th.
• Students for a Better World is holding a Food Drive from Nov 10-21st. Drop off Bins are located by the Main Office and North Entrance. Check Flyers around the school for needed food items! Thank you!
• Legendary Looks is having a pop-up on Monday, November 17th in the Junior Hall outside the Cyber Cafe! Come shop for FREE periods 1-8. We can't wait to see you there!
• Are you interested in being a part of this year's Musical? Come to the Musical Reveal today after school in the Music Hall!

Good Morning, today is Friday, November 14, and today is day 4.

• Have you thought about being a teacher? Want to hear from some of Lancaster's teachers about the profession? Future Teachers is hosting a Teacher Discussion Panel on Thursday, Nov 20th after school in room 134. Come find out what this job is really all about. Everyone is welcome!
• Would you like to spread the gift of warmth??? BLOCK L is holding a winter coat drive all this week. Please bring any gently used fall or winter coats to room 202 or room 128 by today.
• Students for a Better World is holding a Food Drive through Nov.21st. Drop off Bins are located by the Main Office and North Entrance. Check Flyers around the school for needed food items! Thank you!
• Legendary Looks is having a pop-up on Monday, November 17th in the Junior Hall outside the Cyber Cafe! Come shop for FREE periods 1-8. We can't wait to see you there!
• Rocket Club will meet Tuesday November 18th after school in room 126
• Club pictures for the yearbook are taking place Monday November 17-Wednesday November 19th. Please check with your advisor on the time and date for your club! One chance only!
• The November Student Union meeting will be held 3rd period on Tuesday, November 18th.  Please see our google classroom for the agenda.

September / October Newsletter Download

*** 8/18/25 - Updates- School Picture Ordering
*** 8/19/25 - Updated Locker Assignment Location

 

 

 

 

Lancaster High School
September / October Newsletter

PRIDE   SPIRIT  TRADITION

Leave a Legacy

September / October 

Important Dates

August 2025

26       Freshman Orientation (4pm-8pm)

27       Transfer Student Program  (10am-12:45pm)

26 & 27 Locker Assignment / Agenda Planner

                8am-1pm   Cafe 

26 & 27  Parking Permit Purchase

                8am-1pm   Cafe

29         HS Open for Schedule Walk Through

               10am-2pm   Use the Main Entrance Only

September 2025

2        First Day of School

4&5    Underclassmen School Portraits

5        Freshman Mixer (7-10 pm)

19      Courtyard Dance (7-10 pm)

October 2025

2         LHS Open House

13       No School

20-25  Spirit Week

24       Senior Portrait Retakes

24       Underclassman Portrait Retakes

24       Lancaster/Depew Football Game @ LHS

25       Homecoming

27       Senior Portrait Retakes

During The School Year

All students are to enter the building through the 

main entrance doors and Attendance Office 

before 7:10 am and after 7:30 am.

***IMPORTANT***

If you have a change of address, phone number or email address you must contact the Registrar’s Office.

(716)-686-3218  or registrar@lancasterschools.org

Annual FERPA Notification

https://www.lancasterschools.org/district/annual-notifications/ferpa

Important Code Of Conduct Information

Personal Electronic Devices - “Off & Away All Day”

Personal electronic devices, including (but not limited to) cell phones, smartwatches, internet-enabled devices, and earbuds/headphones, are not to be used during school hours (7:30am to 2:15pm). 

Devices are to be “Off & Away All Day.” Students are expected to place their electronic devices in their school locker using this approved storage method.   Annually, all students will be assigned a locker.  District-issued devices, like 1:1 Chromebooks, are the only allowable devices to be used during the instructional day.  

Violations:  

Use of personal electronic devices during the school day may be subject to the following:

1st Offense: Written Referral - The device will be confiscated and kept until the end of the day.  

2nd Offense: Written Referral - The device will be confiscated and kept until the end of the day.  One night detention may be issued.

3rd Offense: Written Referral -  The device will be confiscated and kept until the end of the day. A parent/guardian must pick up the device.  Two nights of detention may be issued.  Students may be required to keep their device at home.

*Additional infractions may result in further disciplinary actions in accordance with the code of conduct.

**Inappropriate use of electronic devices may result in differing levels of consequences advancing beyond these initial incremental steps.

Substance Use/Abuse (Including Tobacco Products)

Possessing, distributing, or smoking a cigarette, e-cigarette or similar device, cigar, pipe or using chewing or smokeless tobacco on district property, at school sponsored or school related activities, and all athletic contests is prohibited.  This may include property adjacent to school buildings.  Any student in violation will be subject to discipline up to, and including, suspension from school.

E-cigarettes or similar devices that are confiscated will not be returned. They will be discarded by Lancaster Police. 

Students are also prohibited from possessing or consuming energy drinks while on District property between 7:30 am and 2:15 pm.  

Students are prohibited from possessing, being under the influence of, consuming, using, buying or attempting to buy, selling or attempting to sell, distributing, sharing or exchanging alcoholic beverages, tobacco (of any kind, see above), and/or other drugs (including the misuse of a prescription or over-the-counter medication or the consumption of medication or drugs for any purpose other than its intended use) on District property, at school-sponsored or school-related activities, and athletic contests.  

A drug may include, but is not limited to:

any illicit drug prohibited by New York State Law

inhalants

look-alike drugs

synthetic drugs

unprescribed medications

medications prescribed for another individual

drug paraphernalia

over-the-counter medications

Students are prohibited from possessing, being under the influence of, consuming, using, buying or attempting to buy, selling or attempting to sell, distributing, sharing or exchanging paraphernalia used in connection with alcoholic beverages, tobacco (including matches or lighters), illegal substances or drugs (prescription or over-the-counter) on District property, at school-sponsored or school-related activities, and athletic contests.  

Attendance Policy Reminders

Absence From School - A note for the absence must be turned in to the attendance office within 5 days for an absence to be considered an excused absence. The note must have the date of the absence, student name, student  ID number and the reason for the absence written on it. Parents/Guardians do not need to call to  report their child absent, only the absent note is required to be brought in within 5 days.

Late To School - Any student who comes to school late must bring a note from their parent/guardian upon arrival. After the third instance that a student is late to school without a note, detention will be assigned. Students must attend 5 periods (more than half the day) to get credit for a school day to participate in that day’s clubs, activities or sports.

Early Dismissal - A note signed by a parent/guardian is needed noting the students name, date,  time of release and reason for early dismissal with a verifying phone number.  Early dismissal notes should be turned in to the Main/Attendance Office by 8:15am to receive an Early Dismissal Pass.  As long as the student has an Early Dismissal Pass their transportation does not need to come into the building to sign them out.    Forgot your note or have an unexpected early dismissal only a parent/guardian or listed emergency contact in eSchool will be permitted to sign out students, ID is required and checked in the Main Office before students are released.  Emergency contacts can be viewed and updated on the Parent Portal https://www.lancasterschools.org/registration/parent-portal-information 

Academic Eligibility - A student must maintain an overall quarterly average of 72.00% to participate unconditionally in all extracurricular activities and sports.

Information Services 

Chromebooks - Students are issued a Chromebook device and power supply cord for use during the school year. There is no cost to receive these items as it is a primary educational tool. Damage and or loss of device due to failure to properly care and maintain the device will result in repair and/or replacement charges being levied to the student.

For IT assistance and/or questions regarding the following areas, please contact us through the appropriate email below:

Parent Portal:   eschoolportal@lancasterschools.org

Student Portal:  eschoolstudentportal@lancasterschools.org

Damaged Device Invoicing:  elearning@lancasterschools.org

Lockers And School Issued Locks 

All students will be issued a locker and a new school lock, free of charge,  to be used for the remainder of their time at LHS. Upon graduation (or leaving the district) the lock shall remain on the locker.

Lockers & Backpacks

School lockers are school property and remain, at all times, under the control of the school.  Students are, however, expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers.  All students will be assigned a locker and students will be required to use this locker for any specific purpose(s) as determined by the code of conduct or administrative direction.  Students should not expect privacy regarding items placed in school property because school property is subject to search, by authorized employees, at any time without notice.  Students are strongly encouraged to lock their personal belongings in the physical education lockers.

At no time should a backpack be left unattended anywhere on school grounds.  

Teachers may request that student backpacks be stored in lockers during their class period(s) and those expectations will be communicated at the beginning of the school year. If permitted by teachers, it is expected that all students must be able to store their backpacks under their desk, table, or chair and classroom aisles are clear.

2025/2026 School Year Parking Permits 

Junior & Senior Students

How to purchase a parking pass:

Step 1: Please read the parking rules listed below carefully. Complete this electronic Parking Registration Form  https://forms.gle/dbQYGcfWti9xA91ZA which can also be found on the Lancaster High School Webpage. To access the form, students must be logged in with their Lancaster account. The form will open on August 11, 2025.

Step 2: Pick up Parking Pass in Room 122 on August 26 & 27 from 8 AM - 1 PM. Enter through the S wing doors. Students will need to bring the $50.00 parking fee. We accept checks made payable to Lancaster Central School District (LCSD) or EXACT cash. We DO NOT have change to give, if you are paying in cash please have exact payment. We are not set up to accept credit card payments. If a student can not come on the above dates they may report to room #102 (Assistant Principal's office) at the high school on the first day of school.

Step 3: Your parking pass MUST be displayed on your rearview mirror facing out whenever you are parked on campus.

Lancaster High School Driving/Parking Rules:

1) Driving to school is a privilege, not a right. All general rules of the building also apply to the parking lots and school grounds. Violation of any school rules/policy, including the Driving/Parking rules, may result in parking privileges being suspended or revoked without a refund. This will be reinforced by administration.

2) The parking hang tag issued to the student must be visible at all times, on the rear-view mirror facing out.

3) If your car breaks down and you borrow a car temporarily, you may move your parking pass from your primary vehicle to your temporary vehicle. Parking hang tags cannot be transferred to other students, if done, the hang tag will be confiscated without a refund.

4) It is the responsibility of the student to report lost or stolen permits to room #102. Lost/stolen permits found in use will be confiscated.

5) Students must obey the posted speed limit and drive in a prudent and safe manner.

6) The school retains the authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots and inspections of the exterior and interior of student vehicles while on school property.

7) All parking violations/tickets are issued by the Lancaster town police department. The parking violation fine is $25.00 and is payable to the Lancaster Town Court, not the school. It is up to the discretion of the Lancaster police if a parking ticket is issued, warnings are not given.

8) Students may park in any student spot in the north lot, south lot or field house lot. There are plenty of student parking spaces available. Please Do Not park in a faculty spot, in front of the building, in the dumpster lot or in an unauthorized area. This may result in a parking ticket and/or tow.

9) Please report vehicle make/model and license plate number changes to room 102. Lancaster High School reserves the right to perform checks to ensure that the vehicle registered at the time of the parking permit purchase is the same.

10) Lancaster town police supervise the outside campus area. Please keep your cars locked at all times. Lancaster high school is not responsible for lost/stolen property or damage while on school grounds.

11) Parking permits from previous school years are not valid.

School Picture Information

Upstate Images photographers will be at LHS 

Picture Dates:

September 4 & 5, 2025 -  Grades 9,10,11 & Staff - Java Gym

October 24, 2025 - Retakes Grades 9,10,11 & Staff - Media Center 

October 24 & 27, 2025  -  Senior Retakes  -  Media Center

Parents and students will receive a link in their emails after the pictures are taken.

Parents, please make sure that your eschool contact emails are correct.

https://vando.imagequix.com/S9SRC9J enter Code LancasterHS25preorder site closes 48 hours after last picture day. Post picture day ordering available once proof sheet is emailed to preferred email or sent to school, these orders include additional shipping fee and are mailed directly to your home address.Questions contact customer service at  1-855-773-3321 (M-F 8:30 am 4:30 pm).

Senior Baby Patrons 

Information will be mailed home to senior parents/guardians regarding patrons later this fall. We will also schedule a Google Meet live demonstration on the process - date to follow.

LCSD Food Service Webpage

Questions about Food Service. email:

adenver@lancasterschools.org  or jszepetyk@lancasterschools.org 

High School Activities

Lancaster High School has many events and activities year round. In order to get the latest information check out the school website: https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/

From the counseling center

Student Schedules will be available on the student/parent portal prior to the start of school. You will be receiving an automated telephone call advising when student schedules can be accessed. We appreciate your patience. Please know that teacher changes are not accommodated. For a variety of reasons, schedules will continue to change until the first day.

Counselor Caseload

There has been a change to the Counselor’s assigned alphabet. The new breakdown is below. Please look this over to determine if it affects your student.

A - Con   Mrs. Hewett X3229

Coo - Gra  Mrs. O’Connor  X3265

Grb - Kro   Mrs. Hejaily  X3264

Krp - Ni  Mrs. Coleman  X3263

Nj - Pot  Mr. Marchese  X3853

Pou - Sr  Miss Rinow  X3399

Ss - Z  Mrs. Len  X3261

Please visit the Counseling Center’s Website for additional information.

https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/counseling-center

Course Description Guide

https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/counseling-center/course-description-guide

AP EXAMS - 

https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/exam-administration-ordering-scores/exam-dates

Reminder, each student is offered two free AP Exams throughout the course of their high school career. Keep this in mind as you are registering for the AP exams. The deadline to register for AP exams is Friday, November 14, 2025.

From Health Office

Health Office Emergency Contacts:   A Health Office Update Form was mailed to households in August.  Please complete one form for each student attending the High School.  If you need additional forms or information, they are available in the Health Office, or can be found on the Health Office webpage of the LHS website at the following link:   https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/health-office/health-forms 

Students should bring the completed forms to the Health Office beginning the first day of school.  

Dental Health:  NYS is requesting that your child have a dental exam upon entry into grade 10, or for any new entrant into LHS.  The Dental Health Certificate can also be found on the Health Office webpage at the following link: .https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/health-office/health-forms  Please note that this form is requested, not mandatory. 

Seniors:  As of September 2016, all incoming grade 12 students are mandated by NYS to have an updated meningococcal vaccine.  You should have received a letter regarding this if your student is not current with this vaccine.  Grade 12 students will be held out of school in September if this vaccine is not current. 

 

Health Screenings:  Height, weight, vision and hearing testing will begin in late fall for all 11th graders.  Testing will take place during physical education classes.  Students in grades 9, 10, and 12 will only have their height and weight completed, as per NYS Mandate.  Please remind your 11th grader to wear their contacts, or have their glasses with them on a regular basis.  This will give us the correct results in our testing, and save you unnecessary visits to your eye doctor. 

Sick Students:  As always, any sick student should report to the Health Office after receiving a pass from their teacher.  All contact to a parent during the school day that is related to illness MUST be made through the Health Office ONLY.  Safety is our priority -- with this in mind, students are not permitted to use their cell phones to call, text, or email a parent (or other) to make their own arrangements to get picked up.   Disciplinary action will result.  Please feel free to contact the nurse with any questions, 716-686-3266.  

Winter Sports:  Winter sports online sign-ups are scheduled to start October 6, 2025.  Please check the Athletic Department’s web page frequently for information regarding the Winter athletic season.  All athletes must have a current physical (within one year of the season start date) on file in the Health Office by November 1st.  Send physicals by:  mail, student drop-off, fax (716-686-3268), or email (pscarpello@lancasterschools.org or eceppaglia@lancasterschools.org).  If we do not have the paperwork in the Health Office by November 1st, there may be a delay for the athlete to start the season. 

If there are any questions, please call the Health Office at 716-686-3266 or 716-686-3343.

Freshman Orientation

August 26, 2025   4:00pm-8:00pm

Dinner Provided

1 Forton Drive. Enter through the main doors. Dress Casual.

Lancaster High School Welcomes you to your transfer student program.

August 27, 2025   10:00am - 1:00pm Bring $4 to purchase an agenda Dress casual Enter Main Doors

44th Annual Freshman Mixer Friday September 5, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm Tickets $5, sold in foundations classes, cafeteria and room 124

Dress comfy casual

 

 

 

 

November / December Newsletter Download

 

 

 

ADA Transcript of Download

Lancaster High School

2025/2026

December / November Newsletter

Pride   Spirit  Tradition

Leave a Legacy

 

November / December 

Important Dates

November 2025

 7           Marking Period 1 Ends

11          Veteran’s Day No School

14          Report Cards Post To Portal

27 & 28  Thanksgiving Recess No School           

December 2025

22-31     Winter Recess No School         

January 2026

1 - 2        Winter Recess No School

5             Classes Resume

 

During The School Year All students are to enter the building through the main entrance doors and Attendance Office before 7:10 am and after 7:30 am.

Important - If you have a change of address, phone number or email address you must contact the Registrar’s Office. (716)-686-3218  or  registrar@lancasterschools.org

Annual FERPA Notification https://www.lancasterschools.org/district/annual-notifications/ferpa

 

From the counseling center………
Student Schedules

Counselor Caseload

A - Con Mrs. Hewett X3229

Coo - Gra  Mrs. O’Connor X3265

Grb - Kro  Mrs. Hejaily X3264

Krp - Ni Mrs. Coleman X3263

Nj - Pot Mr. Marchese X3853

Pou - Sr Miss Rinow X3399

Ss - Z Mrs. Len X3261

 

Scheduling information for the 2026/2027 school year:

https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/counseling-center/scheduling-process-and-information

Course Description Guide: https://lhs.lancasterschools.org/our-school/counseling-center/course-description-guide

AP Exams:  

https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/exam-administration-ordering-scores/exam-dates

As a reminder, each student is offered two free AP Exams throughout the course of their high school career. Please keep this in mind as you are registering for the AP exams. The deadline to register for AP exams is Friday, November 7, 2025.

 

From the Art Department………………….

Carly  entered one of her photos from Photography 1 to the Erie 1 BOCES  Arts Showcase, and received the "Hang in my workspace" award during the show. Her artwork was also selected to hang at BOCES for the 2025-2026 school year!

The 2025 Cayugan yearbook has been nominated for

 'Yearbook of the Year" and "International Book of the Year" by Pictavo. Pictavo is the largest printing company in the yearbook industry, and thousands of books are analyzed and voted on by a panel of professional journalists, designers, and photographers.

 

The English Department

The Lancaster High School English Department is proud to offer a number of electives and advanced classes within our program.  Please see your counselor or English teacher if you would like additional information on any of these course offerings.

Pre-Ap English II (9th Grade)

Pre AP English 9 builds on the foundation of Pre AP English I (8th grade), with an emphasis on the recursive moves that matter in preparing students for the challenges of college-level reading, writing, and discussion (students are not required to have taken Pre-AP English 8 to take this course). While Pre AP English 8 introduces the fundamental routines of close observation, critical analysis, and appreciation of author’s craft, Pre AP English 9 requires students to apply those same practices to a new host of nonfiction and literary texts. As readers, students develop a vigilant awareness of how the poet, playwright, novelist, and writer of nonfiction alike can masterfully manipulate language to serve their unique purposes. As writers, students compose more nuanced analytical essays without losing sight of the importance of well-crafted sentences and a sense of cohesion.

AP Seminar (10th Grade)

AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Students learn to investigate a problem or issue, analyze arguments, compare different perspectives, synthesize information from multiple sources, and work alone and in a group to communicate their ideas. Literary topics for study include mythology, non-fiction and fiction prose and poetry will also be covered.

AP Language And Composition

This is an intensive writing course designed to prepare students for the rigors of college writing and for the Advanced Placement Exam in composition. It is modeled after a typical “Freshman Composition” course and focuses primarily on rhetorical analysis of non-fiction books, essays, and articles. Rhetoric can be defined as “the study and the art of using language effectively.” Using Aristotle’s model of the rhetorical triangle (Word/Logos; Author/Ethos; Audience/Pathos), students will learn to analyze the language choices authors use to create meaningful and persuasive texts. Students will write weekly essays focusing on analysis, persuasion, and synthesis while developing their own voice and style. A summer reading/writing assignment will be given in May and will be due the first day of school. Students will be asked to sign a contract upon registering for this course. 

AP Literature And Composition

Students have been reading, writing, and studying various forms of prose and poetry throughout high school. The process in English Literature and Composition involves a more in-depth approach to understanding and analyzing what students read, as well as considering structure, style, and specific elements, such as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism and tone. This course is geared to prepare the 12th grade student for the National Advanced Placement Exam in Literature and Composition and/or to challenge the above average student of English. Using a comparative analysis approach to literature, students read, analyze and compare works according to subject, form and point of view. Literature is taken from over 600 years of poetry and prose. College application work is focused in September and October in the classroom and in conjunction with counseling using Naviance. Literature analysis, comparative study of writing styles, and techniques used through various centuries is studied. A summer reading, writing, and research project is given in June and is due on the first day of class.

Print Journalism

The student will learn the fundamentals of print journalism: writing, editing, and producing a paper. Evidence of this knowledge will be shown in the staffing and production of the school's newspaper. This is a "hands-on" course. Dual enrollment is available through Buffalo State University.  

Broadcast Journalism And Media Studies

Broadcast media is the focus of this course.  The course will address current media issues including television advertising, radio and television news, talk shows, and entertainment news.  Students will have an opportunity to create their own commercials and talk shows.  Dual enrollment is available through Buffalo State University.  

From the Health Office

Physical Information 2025-2026

Mandated Physicals

New York State Education Law requires that a physical exam be done on all new registrants and at specific intervals:  grades 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11.  At Lancaster High School, All students in grades 9 and 11 must have their mandated physical on file in the high school’s health office by May 1st of their 9th and 11th grade year.  Failure to comply with this may result in your child being excluded from school.

Sports Physicals

All students must have a current physical on file in the health office prior to the start of the sports season to be eligible to participate in the interscholastic sports program at Lancaster High School. Physicals must be dated, at most, one year prior to the first day of the month that the sport season starts (i.e., if tryouts start on March 16, 2026  - physicals must be dated March 1, 2025 or later for that sport season). 

No Student Will Be Allowed To Try Out For Any Sport Without A Valid Physical On File.  

No Exceptions.

All physicals (sports, mandated, or working paper physicals) may be done by your own physician. These physicals must be documented on the “Required NYS School Health Examination” form available on the district and high school websites or in the Health Office.

Sports, working paper, and mandated physicals are also offered by the school free of charge. Lancaster High School will offer physicals prior to the Fall, Winter and Spring sport seasons, as well as in May. Parents must contact the health office (call, email or written note) if they are interested in scheduling their student for a school physical, performed by the school physician.

Parents interested in having their child take advantage of the Spring school physicals must contact the health office in February.  No requests to schedule a physical will be accepted after February 28th.

Just a reminder, if your student receives a physical in the middle of the year, don’t wait to send it in.  Send it in as soon as possible.

Sick Students

Important reminder, please do not send your child to school if they are not feeling well. 

Please call the LHS Health Office with any questions or concerns at 716-686-3266.

Winter Beanies being available at LHS for $15. Email cgould@lancasterschools.org  to order and arrange pick up.

Shop for Legends apparel and accessories.

Legends Locker (Lancaster School Store)

https://www.crossbarathletics.com/collections/lancaster-high-school-bookstore

January / February Newsletter Download

 

January / February Newsletter Transcript Only

Important Dates

1/20/25 - MLK Day  No School

1/23/25 - 6:30pm  Academy Night for Freshmen

1/24/25 - 2nd Marking Period Ends

               Reorganization Day No School Grades 7-12

1/29/25- Lunar New Year  No School

1/31/25 - Report Cards on Portal

2/17/25 - 2/21/25 Mid Winter Recess No School

Spring Sports Registration
Online sign ups will be  2/3/25 - 2/10/25.
Consent forms are due by 2/13/25.
The spring season starts 3/17/25 with modified sports starting 3/24/25.
For more information, visit the Athletic Webpage.

 

A letter from the Principal

Dear Lancaster High School Families,

As we bring in the New Year, we become accustomed to reflecting on our achievements and aspirations for the near future.  In education, this period is pivotal for evaluating our progress and establishing goals to support our students’ academic success. Daily, we witness remarkable learning experiences within our classrooms, and our administrative team is profoundly grateful for the dedication of our exceptional professionals who are committed to our students’ growth.

At a recent Board of Education meeting, I had the privilege of observing presidents and representatives from graduating classes present the culmination of the Lancaster Laude Honors System.  This is a legacy project marking almost 10 years of work.  Passed on from generation to generation, these outstanding young adults provided a comprehensive update on this initiative.  This system broadens recognition and aligns with the core values and expectations of Lancaster High School  I extend my heartfelt thanks to our alumni and former administrators, particularly Mr. Marchioli and Dr. Vallely, for laying the groundwork, and to our current student leaders for their dedication in bringing this vision to fruition. For more detailed information and context, I encourage you to consult our updated Course Description Guide which is available on our school’s website.

As the calendar turns, we commence preparations for the upcoming academic year. We recently hosted our Annual 8th Grade Information Night for the prospective Class of 2029.  This is an inaugural opportunity for future students to experience our school firsthand. Families from all core and elective departments engaged in presentations, while members of our Leadership Program facilitated building tours and conducted a Q&A session about student life. For our returning students, the course selection process for the next academic year is underway. In the coming months, your child will make pivotal decisions regarding course offerings. As we prepare students for life beyond Lancaster, we encourage them to challenge themselves with a comprehensive course load and to fully utilize the diverse opportunities available.

We acknowledge that many of our seniors are eagerly anticipating the announcement of our graduation date and venue. Please be assured that we are diligently working to finalize these details and will communicate them promptly. As a fellow parent within this district, I share your anticipation and remain committed, alongside our administrative team, to ensuring that this milestone celebration meets the high standards our community expects.

As we embark on 2025, I am personally grateful for the health and well-being of the people around me.  Should you have any concerns or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. On behalf of the entire staff, I extend our best wishes for a prosperous and fulfilling New Year to all our families.

Sincerely,

Michael Candella

World Languages

New World Language Curriculum in New York

World language education in New York is transforming! Students have been experiencing a refreshed curriculum designed to build practical language skills and deepen cultural understanding.

What’s New?

"World Languages" Title: Replaces "foreign languages."

Three Modes of Communication:

Interpersonal: Conversations

Interpretive: Understanding spoken/written language

Presentational: Creating presentations

Checkpoints: Beginner (A), Intermediate Low (B), Intermediate Mid-High (C)

Cultural Focus: Emphasizes cultural practices, products, and perspectives.

Our teachers have been enthusiastically preparing by attending dynamic conferences and hands-on workshops, gaining fresh ideas and innovative strategies to inspire their students. The Lancaster World Language department is excited to support our students in becoming global citizens!

 

2025-2026 Electives

World Tourism

Does world travel ever interest you but seem too overwhelming to consider? Then you should try this course. It will provide real world skills for all aspects of the tourism industry including air and land transportation, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, various accommodations, tour vs travel terminology, world geography, types of travelers, most popular travel destinations, and much more. The world’s most stunning and even mysterious places will be explored through Google Maps, breath-taking videos, and other engaging experiences. Travel safety concerns and precautions will also be addressed.  Project-based learning, daily conversations, low-anxiety games, and other thoughtful student-centered activities will be used to help students build their knowledge of the world as well as inspire their Wanderlust. This course will end in a final project instead of an exam.  This course is taught in English

Cultural Awareness & Competency

View the world’s cultures through a different and unique lens!  Understand the phenomena that occur when cultures come into contact! This course is for students who truly wish to examine similarities and differences among the world’s cultures, build relationships, empathize and establish trust with people from diverse backgrounds. Throughout this 20-week course, students will develop a thorough understanding of the concept of culture and cultural diversity by examining language, education and work philosophies, religion, history, symbols, traditions, family values, foods, physical environment, and societal influences. Students will learn how to successfully interpret the behaviors of and interact with someone from a different culture as well as increased awareness of their own cultural backgrounds.  Daily classroom activities will be fun, lively, reflective, and engaging. This course is taught in English and concludes with a final project.

 

Email your counselor to add them to your schedule!

2024-2025 Course Description Guide

 

From the Math Department…..

We are excited to announce that the Math Department is now offering college credit through SUNY Buffalo State University.  Students in AP Calculus & AP Statistics may opt for AP credit or SUNY college credit, and the Pre-Calculus class offers SUNY college credit.

Our College Math class may earn SUNY college credits through Erie Community College.  Please keep these courses in mind as your student begins to plan for their schedule next year. 

Math Learning Center Schedule for 2024-2025 School year:

The Math Learning Center is located in the Cyber Café and is open during periods 4, 5, 6 and 7 this year.  Any student with a lunch or study hall during those periods may come directly to the learning center for math help.

Math Honor Society

Our 23rd annual Math Honor Society Induction Ceremony, was held on November 5, 2024.   MHS inducted 40 new members, bringing our total membership to 87 members for the 2024-25 school year. Congratulations to all newly inducted members.

MHS Monthly Project Days

Math Honor Society’s project this year is creating a gift to be given to all teachers on Pi-Day.  Students are working on craft projects from September through February.  These crafts projects will be given to teachers on Pi-Day (3-14-25)

MHS Toy Drive Project

Every year in December, MHS holds its Toy Drive Project.  Members are asked to bring in a toy to be distributed to families in Lancaster during the holidays. Toys are delivered to the Lancaster Youth Bureau and they handle the distribution to the families. 

Service Projects and Events for MHS:

Sept - May: Peer Tutor in Learning Center

Sept – Feb: Monthly project dates for MHS Service Project

Nov: Induction Ceremony

Dec: Toy Drive Project

March: Care Package Project 

May: 2024-25 NYSMHS Scholarship Applications  

June - Senior Recognition Ceremony

 

Family and Consumer Science Department

Student Recognition:

The FACS department is honored to share Student of the Month award recipients for the year thus far.  They are:

September:  Alyssa Staskiewicz

October:  Olivia Jacobson  

November: Jena Denz

December:  Aaron Shields

Congratulations to these very hard-working students!

Thinking Ahead for the 2025-2026 School Year?  Why Not Try a Course In Family and Consumer Science!?

Family and Consumer Science courses prepare individuals for personal and family life as they merge the challenges of living and working in a diverse, global society.  Abundant opportunities are provided for students to develop the knowledge, skill, attitude, and behaviors for:

Promoting optimal nutrition and wellness  

Developing culinary skills, expressing creativity, and practicing food preparation

Exploring diverse cultures and their cuisine

**FACS courses include Food & Nutrition, Fitness & Food, Food & Culture, Advanced Foods, Event Planning, and Career & Financial Management and Career Exploration Internship**

Little Known Facts about FACS: 

Did you know that you can earn college credit through Buffalo State University for several of our FACS course offerings?  

Did you know you can earn a Regents or Advanced Regents diploma using a FACS sequence?

Did you know that you can earn a CDOS Designation and a Career and Technical Education Endorsement by taking FACS classes?

Check out the course description guide or speak with your guidance counselor for more information!

Attention All Freshmen:  Consider Joining the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism!

The Lancaster Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (AOHT)  focuses on preparing students for careers in the service industry including travel, hospitality, marketing, transportation, education, healthcare, real estate, entertainment, mass media and so much more! Through our partnerships with local businesses and Buffalo State University, Lancaster is able to provide our students with a wide variety of career choices in the customer service, hospitality, tourism and restaurant industries. 

 Curriculum includes a concentration in both business and hospitality with courses in:

Marketing

Sports Marketing

Business Planning Entrepreneurship

Career Success Strategies

Financial Literacy

Event Planning 

Hotel/Restaurant Systems

Food Prep/Culinary Arts

Travel and Tourism

 Major benefits of the Lancaster High School AOHT:

AOHT offers dual enrollment opportunities with Buffalo State University which enables AOHT students to earn up to 24 college credits while taking courses at LHS and completing the AOHT program.

Industry experience/Disney trip to participate in their Youth Education Series program (As permitted)

Leadership and event planning opportunities within LHS and the Lancaster community

The academy application process begins in January 2025.  Please contact Ms. Wilson in room 219 at LHS, (email kwilson@lancasterschools.org) or plan on attending the Academy Information Night for more details.  

 

News From the Health Office

Sign-Ups For Spring Sports

Spring sports are around the corner.  The first day of practice is scheduled to start March 17, 2025.  Please check the Athletic Department’s web page frequently for information regarding the Spring athletic season, including online sign-ups which begin February 3rd.

All athletes must have a current physical (within one year of the season start date).   Physicals are due to the Health Office by Monday, March 3rd.  

Send physicals by:

Mail

Student drop off in the Health Office

Fax:  716-686-3268

Email: pscarpello@lancasterschools.org     eceppaglia@lancasterschools.org

 If we do not have the paperwork in the Health Office by March 3rd, there may be a delay for the athlete to start the season. 

School physicals for spring sports are scheduled for Thursday, March 6th.  If you want your student to get their physical done by the school physician, you must call or email the Health Office by Friday, February 28th.

If there are any questions, please call the Health Office at 716-686-3266 or 716-686-3343.

Physicals

 If your student receives a physical in the middle of the year, don’t wait to send it in. Please send it in today.  Thank you!

Seniors And Their Parents

Senior immunization records are currently available to print on the parent portal.  They will be available to you from now until July 1st.  You are welcome to print as many copies as you need for college admission requirements, employers, etc.  Please keep a copy for yourself for future needs. 

After July 1st, your child’s name is removed from the portal and it will be more difficult to obtain these records, which may cause delays. 

Sick Students

Please do Not send your child to school if they have a fever or are not feeling well.  To reduce the risk of illness, please stress the importance of the following with your child:  washing hands frequently; avoid close contact with people who are sick; avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth; do not share drinks.