North Colonie Central Schools -

Shaker's Robotics Team 2791 delivered an outstanding performance at the Tech Valley Regional, held at MVP Arena from Thursday, April 16 through Saturday, April 18. The team welcomed Shaker Robotics alum and current RPI student Jason Zhang as a guest speaker during the opening ceremony, where he shared his journey and highlighted the exciting STEM opportunities that FIRST Robotics can open.

Since January, the team dedicated countless hours to designing, building, and refining their robot, and that effort was evident throughout the competition. Across all qualification matches, they demonstrated strong skill, innovation, and teamwork. A standout feature of their robot was the use of a Meta Quest VR headset, programmed to continuously track the robot’s position with millimeter precision, advancing their autonomous capabilities. This innovative approach previously earned the team the Innovation in Controls Award at the Hudson Valley Regional in March, marking their sixth and final engineering award needed to complete the prestigious FIRST Robotics “Hexfecta.”

The team competed with focus, determination, and professionalism in every match. While they did not advance to the playoffs, their qualification performance was strong and consistent, including setting the highest score during qualifications. Beyond competition, the event offered valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share ideas with other teams. Their gracious professionalism was on full display as they supported local Team 3044 Ballston Spa on its run to the finals.

It was an impressive showing by the entire team.

Shaker High School's Freshman Seminar students all had the opportunity to visit UAlbany's ETEC building as part of a class-wide field trip between April 13-17. Mrs. Kim Murray and Mrs. Hope Dils' students took part in three programs sessions in small groups. Those sessions included sustainability, atmospheric science, AI, green design and STEM careers among other topics. After those sessions, students walked across campus to eat lunch in the campus dining hall. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience campus life and learn more about future career opportunities!

On Tuesday, April 14, Mrs. Shipley’s Business and Personal Law classes took a field trip to the Albany Criminal Court to see the justice system in action. Students observed an active criminal trial, including opening statements and witness examinations, and had the opportunity to ask County Court Judge, Honorable Andra Ackerman, questions. The group also toured New York State’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, making for a truly immersive day of real-world learning. Thank you to Jeff Hoffman, a student’s father who works in the court system and helped facilitate the trip, as well as to the court system for providing this valuable educational experience.

100%! The North Colonie CSD transportation mechanics received a perfect rating on their New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) inspection for the 2025-26 school year! Congratulations to our team of eight and thank you for your dedication to keeping our students safe on buses each and every day.

Shaker High School Latin teacher Edythe Malara-Lutjen has been named a WNYT News Channel 13 Top Teacher! This recognition reflects her lasting impact on generations of students. For years, she has inspired learners through her engaging Latin classes and club, bringing language and history to life while fostering curiosity beyond the classroom. Her dedication extends to travel and enrichment opportunities, from museum visits and trips to Union College, her alma mater, to unforgettable experiences in Italy that deepen students’ understanding of Roman culture. Congratulations to Mrs. Malara-Lutjen on this well-deserved honor and for the passion and excellence she brings to North Colonie every day. To see the story, click the link in our bio.

On Wednesday, April 15, Shaker Middle School proudly hosted a naturalization ceremony for the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York, welcoming fifteen new citizens from countries including India, Moldova, Albania, and China in a powerful celebration of unity and opportunity. The event was made especially meaningful by members of the North Colonie community, as Director of Instructional Technology and Innovation Renata Relyea shared her journey to citizenship as a guest speaker. Shaker High School food service employee Mariana Zahopoulos, a recently naturalized citizen, led the group of new citizens the Pledge of Allegiance. With remarks from Superintendent Kathleen Skeals and New York State Senator Jacob Ashby, a stirring National Anthem by eighth grader Arya Parikh, and patriotic performances by the Shaker High School 11th-12th grade band, the ceremony reflected the pride, diversity, and shared promise that define our community. Congratulations to our newest citizens on this inspiring milestone.