Good Afternoon UCSD Family,

Thank you for the vital role you play in creating a physically and emotionally safe environment where our students can learn and thrive. As a district, we remain committed to providing every student with access to robust courses and programs that expand opportunities both within UCSD and in their post-secondary futures. 

As we begin the 2025-2026 school year, we will continue to prioritize restorative practices that build the social-emotional skills students need to address conflict in constructive ways. At the same time, I want to be clear: the Utica City School District has zero tolerance for violence in or around our schools. While each situation will be considered individually, we will use every resource available to ensure our schools remain safe for all. 

We encourage parents and caregivers to talk with their children about the importance of appropriate school behavior and peaceful conflict resolution. If you need additional support or resources, please reach out to your child's principal. 

Please know that while we will not tolerate violent incidents, our approach will always be rooted in love- balancing discipline with support to help students make better choices. Together, we can ensure that UCSD remains a safe, nurturing, and high-achieving district for every learner. 

With Gratitude, 

Dr. Christopher Spence 
Superintendent of Schools