We hope this letter finds you well and that you and your loved ones enjoyed a restful and memorable summer. It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome you and your children to the 2026–2027 school year at PS 81. We are excited to open our doors and continue our shared commitment to providing a high‑quality, enriching education for every student.
As we prepare to begin the school year on Thursday, September 10, please take note of the following important reminders:
STUDENT VIRTUAL MEET & GREET
Teachers will host a brief virtual meet‑and‑greet for students on September 9. These short sessions will give students an opportunity to meet their teacher and preview their classroom environment.
Kindergarten – 9:00 a.m.
First Grade – 9:30 a.m.
Second Grade – 10:00 a.m.
Third Grade – 10:30 a.m.
Fourth Grade – 11:00 a.m.
Fifth Grade – 11:30 a.m.
Please note that these sessions are for students only. Families will have the opportunity to meet their child’s teacher and learn more about the curriculum during our Remote Parent Night on Wednesday, September 30 (times to be announced).
SCHOOL SUPPLY DROP OFF:
Families may drop off school supplies on September 8 and September 9 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. We encourage families to do so in advance of the first day whenever possible. Please make sure your supplies are labeled with the student's first and last name, as well as class number (For example, John Santos 2-123). Supplies can be dropped off at the main entrance on Riverdale Ave.
** FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL: September 10, 2026 **
School Hours: 8:00 a.m.–2:20 p.m. Doors open at 7:55 a.m.
Please note that we will no longer offer “grab‑and‑go” breakfast. Students who wish to receive a hot breakfast must arrive between 7:40 a.m. and 7:55 a.m and enter through the 256th entrance. All other students should enter at 7:55 a.m.
MORNING ARRIVAL LOCATIONS:
- First & Second Grade: Auditorium Entrance on West 256th Street
- Third, Fourth & Fifth Grade: Main Entrance on West 256th Street
- Kindergarten: Schoolyard entrance, where students will be greeted by teachers and staff. Parents may accompany their children into the schoolyard on September 10 and September 11. Beginning Monday, September 14, all Kindergarten students will enter through the auditorium entrance on West 256th Street.
New families are invited to attend the Kindergarten/New Student Café in the auditorium. Please enter the auditorium after your child has transitioned to their classroom.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES:
The dismissal schedule will be in effect Monday through Friday. All exit doors will be clearly marked.
Kindergarten: 2:05 p.m. — Dismissed to the schoolyard
Grades 1 & 2: 2:10 p.m. — Dismissed on Riverdale Avenue
Grades 3, 4 & 5: 2:15 p.m. — Dismissed on Riverdale Avenue
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY
Student success is directly connected to strong attendance and punctuality. The school day begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:20 p.m. Consistent attendance and arriving on time helps students transition smoothly into the school routine and thrive academically and socially. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing these habits from the very first day.
We are incredibly proud of all our school has accomplished and excited to continue building on that success together. At PS 81, our work extends beyond pursuing excellence, we lead with purpose and a clear vision for our students. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and trust. We look forward to an exceptional year ahead.
Fondly,
Anne Kirrane
Principal, PS 81