February 5, 2009 - Artwork created by 16 North Colonie students was displayed at the New York State Legislative Office Building recently during the New York State Art Teachers Association's 19th annual Legislative Student Art Exhibit, January 16-23.

The annual event is a celebration of young artists in kindergarten through high school. The event helps remind the community of the the vital connection between the arts and cognitive and emotional growth in students.

A reception was held on January 21 in the Legislative Office Building's lobby, where students, teachers and parents got to view artwork created by other students and meet elected officials, including state Sen. Neil Breslin and Assemblyman Bob Reilly.

North Colonie participants were:

• Blue Creek

  Art Teacher: Maya Trawinski

  Students: Sara Cao and Kara Crodelle

• Forts Ferry

  Art Teacher: Lynn Hodges - Art Teacher

  Students: Maya Zhou and Brandon Kayemba

• Latham Ridge

  Art Teacher: Jennifer Youmans

  Students: Elizabeth Dybas and Rebecca Hyatt

• Loudonville

  Art Teacher: Laura Breen

  Students: Caroline Stuto and Brennan Jelstrom

• Southgate

  Art Teacher: Beth Aldous

  Students: Anne Le and Chloe Fahey

• Shaker Junior High School

  Teacher: Aaron Haacker

  Students: Katie Donnolly and Christina Papadopoulos

• Shaker Junior High School

  Art Teacher: Mary O’Connell

  Students Carlonelle Santos and William Neumeister

• Shaker Junior High School

  Art Teacher: Timothy Secord

  Students Gina Cappadona and Brianna Harris