Category: District News
Liberty issues reminder of communication policies, safety procedures
With spring here, Liberty Central School District is reminding families of some communication policies and safety procedures.
The district encourages the community to come out to support the students in their academic, athletic and fine art endeavors, while ensuring the campuses remain safe.
With capital project construction ongoing, those who are visiting the middle and high school campus are asked to be mindful of the work in progress. While significant progress has been made, the new turf athletic field and the surrounding areas are still off limits to the public. Work on the track is expected to begin soon. Construction of the maintenance building has also begun, which means the parking lot on Winthrop Avenue, as well as the walkway from the lot to the high school is closed. Those who are attending softball, baseball or tennis matches should park in the lot between the high school and district office.
Parents and guardians are also reminded of the most efficient ways to communicate any concerns they may have. The Chain of Command Calling Guide includes details on whom to contact for what. Concerns regarding bullying and safety may also be reported through the Anonymous Alerts system.
The district adheres to our visitor expectations and the New York State Public High School Athletic Association guidelines, which encourage positivity, support and sportsmanship, and reminds spectators to follow the policy. Tobacco, alcohol, marijuana or other drug use is prohibited on school grounds, as are pets. Staff members are onsite during all contests and they will ask those who violate the policies to comply or leave.
The district also issued reminders of the steps in place to make Liberty a safe place in which to learn. Entry to all buildings requires keycard access for staff, and LCSD has a strict visiting procedure. Visitors are restricted to a single point of entry in each building. All visitors must show a valid ID at an automated kiosk before entering any of our school buildings, and will be buzzed in. All classrooms require keycard access, and doors are expected to remain closed and locked when occupied.
Through the district’s door lock system, school officials are able to immediately lock all doors if there is an emergency. Digital signs throughout common areas will help inform students and staff of what is happening. There are also strobe lights inside and outside the building, which will help alert of emergencies and advise those outside the building not to enter. If an emergency occurs, the Liberty Police Department is able to monitor school cameras.
LPD is an important partner, as a school resource officer from LPD is placed in each building. They regularly patrol and check for vulnerabilities and are a valuable resource to students and staff.
Faculty and staff are trained in what to do, in line with the districtwide safety plan, if an emergency occurs, and our schools have emergency drills several times a year.
“Safety is always one of the top priorities for Liberty Central School District, and we appreciate your support and assistance,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said.
Sports schedule, and results, for the week of April 13-19, 2026
Spring sports kicks off this week with baseball, golf, softball, tennis and track.
Here are the schedule and results, if available. Livestream links are included where available.
The schedule is subject to change. Check the Liberty schedule on the Section IX website for the latest.
Monday, April 13
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Port Jervis at Port Jervis High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Chester Academy at Liberty High School
Results: Chester 26, Liberty 5
The Varsity Softball team faced a dual challenge this week, squaring off against a powerhouse Chester lineup and a grueling 30-minute torrential downpour. While Chester secured the victory, the game served as a vital learning ground for an inexperienced Redhawks roster that continues to show growth through every bump in the road.
Chester’s high-powered offense pounded out 11 hits, taking advantage of defensive miscues and walks.. The Hambletonians were led by Brooke Diaz, who finished 3-for-4 with a double, 4 runs scored, and 3 RBI. Diaz was one of three Chester batters to record multiple hits and score at least four times, keeping the pressure on the Redhawks throughout the afternoon.
Despite the final score and the difficult playing conditions, the Varsity had some bright spots on the day that highlights their potential. In the 3rd inning, Amy Szuba stepped up with the bases loaded and delivered a line-drive 2-run single, sparking the dugout. Maddy Stewart extended her hitting streak to three games, finishing 1-for-3 with a run scored and also continued her dominance in center field, tracking down a difficult sinking line drive for another spectacular catch. Angie Wheeler provided a bright spot in the circle, racking up 8 strikeouts in just 3.1 innings of work in relief.
With an inexperienced roster, the Redhawks understand that this season is a journey of learning and perseverance. While the elements and the opponent were formidable, the team’s work ethic remains high. The heartbeat of the game was once again the Redhawk bench. Despite the rain and the scoreboard, the dugout remained enthusiastic, loud, and relentlessly positive, spurring their teammates on until the final out. This unwavering team spirit remains the foundation as Liberty continues to grow and improve with every inning played.
4:30 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Port Jervis at Port Jervis High School
Tuesday, April 14
2:30 p.m.: Girls Varsity Golf vs. Ellenville at Shawangunk Country Club
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Minisink Valley at Minisink Valley High School
4:15 p.m.: Modified Baseball vs. Eldred at Liberty Elementary School
4:15 p.m.: Modified Softball vs. Eldred at Eldred High School
Wednesday, April 15
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Washingtonville at Liberty High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Beacon City at Beacon High School
4:30 p.m.: Boys and Girls Varsity Track and Field vs. Beacon City at Beacon High School
Thursday, April 16
3 p.m.: Girls Varsity Golf vs. Multiple Schools at Villa Roma Country Club
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. Multiple Schools at Roscoe Mountain Club
4 p.m.: Boys and Girls Modified Track and Field vs. Eldred at Eldred High School.
4:15 p.m.: Modified Baseball vs. Rockland Central School District at Rockland Middle/High School
4:15 p.m.: Modified Softball vs. Rockland Central School District at Liberty Elementary School
Friday, April 17
4:15 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Eldred at Liberty High School
4:15 p.m.: JV Softball vs. Eldred at Eldred High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. James I. O’Neill at Liberty High School
4:30 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Middletown at Middletown High School
Saturday, April 18
11:00 a.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Monticello in the Rockland Wolves tournament at Rockland Middle/High School
11:00 a.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Harpursville/Afton in the Rockland Wolves tournament at Rockland Middle/High School
1 p.m.: Consolation games at Rockland Middle/High School
3 p.m.: Championship games at Rockland Middle/High School
Sunday, April 19
No events scheduled
BOE to meet April 14
The next Board of Education meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, in the HS Media Center at 125 Buckley St., Liberty. The Board anticipates to enter into executive session (not open to the public) immediately.
The regular portion of the meeting, open to the public, is expected to resume at 6 p.m. The agenda will be available on Monday, April 13, at Board Docs.
Soapbox Derby info night set
There will be an informational and sign up meeting for the Sullivan County Soapbox Derby at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, at the Liberty Firehouse at 256 Sprague Ave. in Liberty.
Participants will have a chance to compete at the World Championships
Liberty junior earns BCANY basketball All-Star honors
Liberty junior Zack Alvord was recently named to the BCANY Section IX Class A All-Star boys basketball team.
“I couldn’t be more proud to see Zack named as a BCANY Mid-Hudson Class A All star for the second season in a row,” his coach Matthew Robinson said. “This honor is a direct reflection of the countless hours of hard work he has put in when no one is watching.”
To be eligible for any BCANY award the team’s head coach must be an active BCANY member, member coaches then nominate players from their team to form an All-Star ballot. From this pool of nominees, coaches within each class voted to determine award recipients. In accordance with BCANY guidelines, coaches were not permitted to vote for themselves, their own players or their own teams.
““It’s always an honor for the coaches in Section IX to acknowledge my hard work,” Zack said. “I would also like to thank Coach Robinson, Coach Ferguson and my teammates for a great season.”
Zack averaged 14.3 points 3.9 rebounds and 3.2 steals per game.
“When you see a player work that hard and remain so humble, you love to see them get this recognition,” Coach Robinson said. “As good as a player Zack is he is an even better person and I’m looking forward to seeing what he has in store for his senior season.
LPA to present ‘Almost, Maine’ April 17 and 18
Liberty Performing Arts will present “Almost, Maine” at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 17 and 18, in the high school auditorium.
Set in a small, northern town under the glow of the northern lights, “Almost, Maine,” a play by John Cariani” is a series of charming and poignant vignettes about love in all its forms—falling in and out of love, missed connections, and unexpected second chances. Filled with humor, warmth, and a touch of magic, it’s a story that will leave you smiling long after the final curtain, presenters said.
“Our high school students have been working incredibly hard to bring this heartfelt and whimsical production to life,” said directors Ben Abrams and Meghan Kehrer. “We are excited to share their dedication and talent with the audience.”
Directed by Ben Abrams and Meghan Kehrer, this production showcases the incredible talent and dedication of Liberty High School’s student performers. Performing, in order of appearance, are Sebastian Yupanqui, Kristjana Geirsdotti, Cassandra Porter, Riley Santiago, Orchid Langlois, McKinzie Paterson, Sarai Miranda, Jill Baumander, Lena Lagattuta, Kelsey Hopkins and Kourtney Perry.
Lighting design is by Kathleen Johansen, with set and prop design by Angela Kruger and Michael Fritz and costume design by Emily McConnell.
Community members are encouraged to attend. Tickets are $10 and are available for purchase online. Children 2 and younger are admitted free, However, the show is most appropriate for ages 13 and older due to content.
LES kindergarten, pre-k registration available
Registration is now open for kindergarten at Liberty Elementary School for the 2026-27 school year. There are also open slots available for pre-kindergarten, and a lottery will not be held. Seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
To qualify for kindergarten, children must be 5 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2026, and a resident of the Liberty Central School District. Students that are in the Liberty Central School District universal pre-k program at LES do not need to register.
Eligible pre-kindergarten students must be residents of the Liberty Central School District and turn 4 years old before Dec. 1, 2026.
To register, parents or guardians must fill out a registration packet for kindergarten or a registration packet for pre-kindergarten, and provide a copy of parent/guardian’s photo ID; custody papers, if applicable; proof of residency, such as a utility bill or rental lease; and the child’s birth certificate, immunization records and a copy of recent physical exam, which must include all school physical exam requirements. Parents and guardians are encouraged to check with their child’s doctor for details. The child’s healthcare insurance card is also requested.
For more information about pre-k, visit our UPK FAQs page.
To register, email haustin@libertyk12.org or call 845-292-5400, ext. 2331.
Superintendent offers update on lead-based paint found at LES
Dear Liberty,
As the health and safety of our staff and students are our top priorities, we want to update you on the steps we have taken to address the identified lead-based paint in the older section of Liberty Elementary School. To ensure a healthy environment, the district worked with environmental and cleanup experts to address these areas until we complete a full remediation process.
Even though professional tests showed that dust levels were already well within safe limits, we took extra steps to make sure everyone stays safe. Our cleanup teams used a thorough safety process in classrooms and hallways. This included using specialized air filters to keep the air clean while workers carefully removed any loose or peeling paint. After the paint was removed, all surfaces were deep-cleaned using industrial vacuums and wet-wiping. To provide a long-term safety barrier, a white sealant was painted over these areas to lock everything in place.
Throughout this process, all school supplies and furniture were either moved or covered in protective plastic to keep them clean. Upon your child’s return from Spring Break, they will find their classrooms ready for learning. Some of the walls have been finished with a new white sealant, and all items have been moved back into place by the contractors. To ensure a healthy environment, the contractors used green, plant-based products to clean the building, making it safe for both students and staff.
We are committed to providing a safe place to learn and look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow, April 7.
If you have any questions please email Questions@libertyk12.org.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick Sullivan
Superintendent
Sports schedule, and results, for the week of April 6-12, 2026
Spring sports kicks off this week with baseball, golf, softball, tennis and track.
Here are the schedule and results, if available. Livestream links are included where available.
The schedule is subject to change. Check the Liberty schedule on the Section IX website for the latest.
Monday, April 6
No events scheduled.
Tuesday, April 7
3 p.m.: Girls Varsity Golf vs. Multiple Schools at Wallkill Golf Club
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Port Jervis at Liberty High School
Result: Liberty 0, Port Jervis 23
Despite the biting cold and relentless winds, the Redhawks took to the field for their home opener with an unwavering spirit. Even though the scoreboard favored Port Jervis 23-0, the final tally doesn’t tell the full story of a team that did not to let the elements or a tough opponent dampen their resolve.
Playing on the field for only the second time this spring, several Redhawks found ways to shine against a dominant pitching performance by the Raiders’ Abbey Montalvo. Giuliana Wagner led the charge offensively, going a perfect 2-2 at the plate. Wagner’s performance, featuring both a sharp single and a powerful double, accounted for the team’s hits on the day. Lilli Black showed great range and focus in the outfield, reeling in several difficult catches despite the blustery conditions. She also displayed discipline at the plate to reach base safely once in two at bats. Brooke Porter also stayed very patient at the plate, going deep into the count and battled to earn a walk as well, contributing to the team’s offensive effort.
While Port Jervis brought a heavy-hitting offense, the Redhawks remained vocal and supportive of one another through all five innings of the cold, cold day. Facing 13 hits and three extra-base hits is a challenge for any defense, but the Redhawks used the experience as to “learn on the fly.”
The team’s ability to maintain a positive attitude despite the weather is something to be proud of.
4:30 p.m.: JV Softball vs. Port Jervis at Liberty Elementary School
Wednesday, April 8
3 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. James I. O’Neill at West Point Golf Course
4 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Monticello at Monticello High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Sullivan West Central at Sullivan West – Jeffersonville
Result: Liberty 1, Sullivan West 19
In a season defined by growth and perseverance, the Redhawks took the field again this Wednesday with a focus on teamwork and growth. While the final score was 19-1 in favor of a strong Sullivan West team, the Redhawks remained a united front, filling the dugout with cheers and encouragement for one another from the first pitch to the final out.
Facing a dominant performance in the circle by Sullivan West’s Jocelyn Doyle, the Redhawks stayed disciplined and continued to put the ball into play. Maddy Stewart Ignited the Liberty offense with a sharp line drive to right field and used her speed to cross the plate for the Redhawks’ run. Amy Szuba added a base hit later in the game. Lilli Black put together two exceptional at-bats, showing great patience to draw two walks and reach base twice.
What the box score doesn’t show is the positivity displayed by the team as they continued to cheer each other on right up to the last at bat. Throughout five tough innings, the Redhawks never let their heads hang. Instead, they focused on the “small wins”—learning to back up plays, communicate on the field, and celebrating every hard-fought out.
4:30 p.m.: JV Softball vs. Sullivan West Central at Sullivan West – Lake Huntington
4:30 p.m.: Boys and Girls Track & Field vs. Multiple Schools at Sullivan West – Jeffersonville.
Thursday, April 9
3 p.m.: Girls Varsity Golf vs. Washingtonville at The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge.
4 p.m.: Boys and Girls Modified Track and Field vs. Sullivan West Central at Sullivan West – Jeffersonville
4:15 p.m.: Modified Softball vs. Tri-Valley at Liberty Elementary School
Friday, April 10
4 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Tri-Valley at Liberty High School
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. Warwick Valley School District at Warwick Valley Country Club
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. James I. O’Neill at James I. O’Neill High School
Result: Liberty 6, O’Neill 5
The Redhawks Varsity Softball team proved that resilience is their greatest strength last night, shaking off two difficult opening games to claim a thrilling 6-5 victory over James I. O’Neill. In a contest that featured four lead changes, the Redhawks showcased a perfect blend of “small ball” execution, stellar defense, and a dominant closing performance in the circle.
Angie Wheeler was the story of the game, delivering a masterful performance that kept the Raiders off balance. Wheeler tossed a complete game, and as the pressure mounted, she only got stronger. She dominated the final stretch, retiring the last seven Raiders batters in order to seal the win. Angie gave up 4 earned runs on 7 hits while striking out 11 and walking none.
The Redhawk bats came alive exactly when they were needed most. After O’Neill rallied for three runs to snatch a 5-3 lead in the 5th, Liberty refused to flinch. In a masterclass of situational hitting and baserunning, the Redhawks manufactured a three-run 6th inning to reclaim the lead for good. The rally began as Lilli Black took one for the team, reaching base after being hit by a pitch. Charlotte Horton followed with a walk, putting two runners on. After both runners advanced on a wild pitch, Tianna Wilson came through with a clutch groundout to first, driving in Lilli to cut the deficit to one. Then the Redhawks’ top of the order delivered: Maddy Stewart and Angie Wheeler ignited the dugout with back-to-back line-drive singles, scoring Horton and knotting the game at 5-5. Giuliana Wagner then provided the decisive blow, grounding out to second base to drive in Stewart for the go-ahead run.
Angie then closed out the game, quieting the O’Neill bats in consecutive scoreless innings and striking out the final batter to secure the Varsity’s first win of the season.
Angie finished the day at the plate going 3-for-4 with two runs scored while Maddy was stellar from the leadoff spot, going 2-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. Giuliana provided some key at bats for the offense, driving in 3 RBI to power the Redhawk scoring surges.
It was a total team effort for the Redhawks to secure the win. From the defense, to the clutch hitting to the solid work by Angie and the bench never letting up the vocal support from the sidelines, it was a day to remember.
Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and 12
No events scheduled.
A message from the superintendent regarding lead-based paint discovered at LES
Dear Redhawk family,
The New York State Department of Health’s Middletown District Office (DOH) conducted an assessment for lead in classrooms at the Liberty Elementary School on March 26 and March 31. DOH identified the presence of lead-based paint in several classrooms. We want to reassure families that the presence of lead-based paint alone does not pose a health risk. Lead-based paint becomes hazardous when it is damaged, chipping or peeling. The School District is working closely with DOH to ensure that all appropriate steps are taken to address any areas where lead-based paint remediation is required, and to confirm that learning environments remain safe for students and staff.
As a reminder, water from all outlets that are used or could potentially be used for drinking or cooking were tested in the Liberty Elementary School in April 2025. All water outlets with levels of lead at or above the lead action level of 5 parts per billion (ppb) were immediately removed from service. The school retested all replaced outlets in May 2025 and the test results were below the action level.
If you have questions or concerns about lead exposure and your child’s health, we encourage you to contact your pediatrician. For additional information, we are sharing a resource from the New York State Department of Health: https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/. We will provide updates as they become available.
If you have any questions, email Questions@libertyk12.org.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick Sullivan
Superintendent