Tuesday, June 16 marked the last official day of classes at Shaker High School! Students wrapped up another year of learning, memories, and milestones! And the biggest celebration is just around the corner for our seniors, only ten more days until graduation!
¡Felicitaciones a nuestros estudiantes de español! Shaker High School is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students on the 2026 National Spanish Examinations (NSE), one of the most prestigious academic assessments for Spanish language learners in the United States. The exam measures students’ proficiency in reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar while recognizing excellence at the national level.
This year, 108 Shaker students participated in the National Spanish Exam, earning an impressive collection of national honors:
3 Gold (Oro) Medalists: Sophia Silva Alves, Vicente Merino-Lopez, Keila Burgos
9 Silver (Plata) Medalists: Shubhika Garg, Carolina Donati, Kharen Minier, Afia Konadu-Kusi, Hayden Gemerek, Emily Yang, Adithya Thumilan, Isabel Yang, Ella Bagchi
9 Bronze (Bronce) MedalistsL Maliha Jumsheed, Kaidan Reichl, Daniel Portocarrero, Eden Haggerty, Ahana Gandhi, Megan Goslow, Miquela Torres, Cristiano Logrippo, Caleb Lopez
29 additional students earned Honorable Mention (Honorífica), recognizing their exceptional performance on a nationally normed exam. These accomplishments reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion for language learning demonstrated by our students every day.
This year, 108 Shaker students participated in the National Spanish Exam, earning an impressive collection of national honors:
3 Gold (Oro) Medalists: Sophia Silva Alves, Vicente Merino-Lopez, Keila Burgos
9 Silver (Plata) Medalists: Shubhika Garg, Carolina Donati, Kharen Minier, Afia Konadu-Kusi, Hayden Gemerek, Emily Yang, Adithya Thumilan, Isabel Yang, Ella Bagchi
9 Bronze (Bronce) MedalistsL Maliha Jumsheed, Kaidan Reichl, Daniel Portocarrero, Eden Haggerty, Ahana Gandhi, Megan Goslow, Miquela Torres, Cristiano Logrippo, Caleb Lopez
29 additional students earned Honorable Mention (Honorífica), recognizing their exceptional performance on a nationally normed exam. These accomplishments reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion for language learning demonstrated by our students every day.
Ten Shaker High School Research Students took home awards and other recognitions from the 2026 RPI Science Fair. Getting into the fair, which was held earlier this year, is a feat in and of itself. But bringing home multiple awards is a great accomplishment.
"The students worked incredibly hard to get into the fair," said SHS Science Research Teacher Nate Covert. "That hard work was rewarded with numerous awards. They did an amazing job!"
See their accomplishments from the 2026 RPI Science Fair below:
- Ishika Yalamanchi has won the 1st Place Honorable mention and earned a spot to the New York State science fair
- Ella Bagchi won the NASA Earth System Science award, The US Air Force award and the GCRSEF Excellence in Computer Science Award
- Emma Freed won the Dudley Observatory Award
- Alina Arqam won the National Association of Biology Teachers Award
- Gianna Zhang won the National Grid Award for energy and the Environment Award
- Aleena Saleem won the STANYS: Eleanor Miller Reed Science Research Award
- Nirvana Monsur won the Regeneron Biomedical Science Award
- Ishae Pradeep Nag won the Regional Ricoh Sustainable Development Award
- Priya Pillai won the Society for IN VITRO Biology Award
- Rishabh Kumar won the US NAVY Office of Research Award
"The students worked incredibly hard to get into the fair," said SHS Science Research Teacher Nate Covert. "That hard work was rewarded with numerous awards. They did an amazing job!"
See their accomplishments from the 2026 RPI Science Fair below:
- Ishika Yalamanchi has won the 1st Place Honorable mention and earned a spot to the New York State science fair
- Ella Bagchi won the NASA Earth System Science award, The US Air Force award and the GCRSEF Excellence in Computer Science Award
- Emma Freed won the Dudley Observatory Award
- Alina Arqam won the National Association of Biology Teachers Award
- Gianna Zhang won the National Grid Award for energy and the Environment Award
- Aleena Saleem won the STANYS: Eleanor Miller Reed Science Research Award
- Nirvana Monsur won the Regeneron Biomedical Science Award
- Ishae Pradeep Nag won the Regional Ricoh Sustainable Development Award
- Priya Pillai won the Society for IN VITRO Biology Award
- Rishabh Kumar won the US NAVY Office of Research Award
The countdown is on! What are your summer plans? Share them with us via social media or email at communications@nccsk12.org. We can't wait to see what you're up to this summer! And keep an eye out for Bryson the Bison - you never know where they may end up!
Congratulations to bus driver Stewart Zavolinsky, who was given the AAA School Bus Driver Safety Award for North Colonie CSD this year! Affectionately known by students as Mr. Stew, Zavolinsky is known for his outstanding attendance, commitment, reliability and immaculately kept bus. A couple of fun facts about Mr. Stew... he has a degree in mortuary science and a unique collection of automobiles. Congratulations Mr. Stew and thank you for everything you do to get our students to school and home safely everyday!
Only two weeks until Shaker High graduation, and our seniors are feeling the excitement! Today, June 12, a group of Shaker seniors returned to St. Pius X, a place where many of them spent their K–8 years, for a nostalgic walk through the halls that helped shape their journey. Current students and teachers lined the hallways to cheer them on as they took a walk down memory lane. This is just the first of many elementary school walkthroughs as we countdown the days until our grads take the stage. Get ready for more celebrations, memories, and graduation moments! Congratulations class of 2026!
The soapbox is yours! Thursday, June 11, Shaker Middle School Civic Engagement and Leadership Club students took the stage to share their voices, ideas, and calls to action through Project Soapbox and with help from SMS Social Studies Teacher, Ms. Carla Ackerly. After months of research, writing, revision, and practice, these young leaders spoke passionately on issues that matter, from mental health and technology to climate change, equity, and community growth. We are proud to celebrate their courage, curiosity, and commitment to creating a better world.
She did it! With your help, Shaker junior Shreya Sharath reached her fundraising goal to support the donation of 240 GleeBoxxes to students throughout the North Colonie Central School District. On Wednesday, June 10, Shreya and more than a dozen employees at Sunmark Credit Union helped assemble the boxes, which were delivered to Central Office. 40 boxes will then go to each elementary school, where they will be distributed to students before school is out. A GleeBoxx can have school supplies, treats, fun trinkets or even a kind note to help brighten the day of the recipient.
Thank you, Shreya, for your dedication to making the lives of those around you better. Thank you, Sunmark, for your support of Shreya and the rest of our students.
Thank you, Shreya, for your dedication to making the lives of those around you better. Thank you, Sunmark, for your support of Shreya and the rest of our students.
"Von Berlin bis nach New York - From Berlin to New York" is the chorus of a rap song that German students grade 10-12 produced in a workshop with the German rapper and "incluencer," Graf Fidi. The event was hosted by the Goethe Institute, located in NYC. In his lyrics, the German artist from Berlin explores the situation of people with disabilities and promotes inclusion. Participating students wrote their own lyrics about the topic of inclusion and disability support. They presented their raps and recorded lines from the chorus like in a music studio. Grad Fidi will use their ideas and recordings to produce the last song of his new album, which will be released on Spotify soon. All participants were thrilled about this wonderful opportunity. The trip was chaperoned by Frau Connor, Frau Brandt and Frau Reeves, the German teachers at North Colonie.
It was a big day for Shaker Middle School on Wednesday, June 10!
The day began with Career Day, where students had the opportunity to hear from dozens of professionals representing a wide range of careers and industries. From orthodontists, lawyers, insurance specialists, firefighters, government officials, restaurateurs, and EMTs to representatives from sports organizations and media professionals, there was truly something for everyone. Students engaged with speakers, took notes, asked thoughtful questions, and gained valuable insight into the many career paths available to them. Thank you to all of our guest speakers for generously sharing their time, experiences, and expertise with our students!
In the afternoon, eighth grade students traveled to Shaker High School for orientation. Guided by members of the Student Leadership Council, students toured the building, learned about the school’s layout, explored the block scheduling system, received information about Yondr pouches, and discovered the many electives and special programs available to them. Students also had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion, where they could ask questions and gain a better understanding of the school they will call home for the next four years.
After a day filled with learning and exploration, it was time for some fun! Students returned to Shaker Middle School and enjoyed a spirited kickball game alongside their peers and gym teachers, a perfect way to wrap up an exciting day!
Monday night, June 8, the Shaker Athletics Department and Shaker All Sports Booster Club celebrated over twenty seniors at the annual College Recognition Night. These students have committed to continuing their athletic careers at D1, D2, and D3 colleges. Congratulations seniors, we can’t wait to cheer you on at the next level! Check out the full list of names, colleges and sports below!
Caroline Merolle - Volleyball - Lasell University
Teagan Martinovich - Lacrosse - Western New England University
Drew Waldorf - Lacrosse - Western New England University
Ruby Szemplinski - Softball - Rowan University
Olivia Lutz - Swimming - SUNY Oneonta
Tanner Donovan - Lacrosse - Florida Atlantic University
Lily Maynard - Field Hockey - Skidmore College
Talyn Chernosky - Softball - Caldwell University
Madeline Fazziola - Soccer - SUNY Potsdam
Eleanor Keough - Soccer, Flag Football - Marymount University
Arianna Castracani - Soccer - Westfield State University
Nicholas Mirabile - Lacrosse - Western New England University
Peyton Hoblock - Basketball - Dartmouth College
Briella Fiacco - Lacrosse - Connecticut College
Tessa Carroll - Lacrosse - Iona University
Emma Davis - Lacrosse - Newberry College
Mya Endres - Lacrosse - Lynn University
Peyton Cerrone - Lacrosse - Saint Anselm College
Brayden McElroy - Lacrosse - SUNY Oneonta
Gannon King - Soccer - Ithaca College
Jake Gaudette - Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field, Cross Country - SUNY Geneseo
Quinn Roberts - Lacrosse - Western New England University
Madeline Fazziola - Soccer and Flag Football - Russell Sage College
Ava Boncordo - Tennis - Union College
Congratulations to SHS seniors Harika Byraju and Everitt Li, for receiving a state honorable mention from Population Education for their video submission in the World of 8 Billion video contest. Harika and Everitt created a video about the importance of wetlands for their Civic Engagement and Leadership course at SHS. Learn more about the contest here: https://www.worldof8billion.org/winners-2026/state-and-international-honors-2026/
Shaker Robotics Team 2791 takes home the win! The team competed at the BattleCry Competition at WPI, creating a winning alliance with three other teams. Competition was fierce at the event, with 45 teams competing in total. Congratulations Shaker Robotics Team 2791!
Friday, June 5, marked an exciting day at Shaker High School! The Art Foundations Micro Show transformed the walls of the art gallery with an incredible display of student creativity and talent. Our Foundations students have worked incredibly hard on these pieces, and the show gave them the opportunity to share their artwork with friends, families, classmates, and teachers. Amazing job everyone!
Congratulations to Shaker High School senior Elena Hymes! Hymes has been named Capital Region BOCES Faculty Association Outstanding Student of the Year at the Career and Technical Education Center – Albany Campus. Hymes is a senior in the Criminal Justice program and was presented the award on June 4 at the senior awards ceremony on the campus. Read more about this accomplishment on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/article/2969384
Shaker High School senior Harika Byraju recently celebrated her Civic Engagement and Leadership capstone project by hosting "The Creative Collective” art show, which focused on educating the community about the overall benefits of art and art education. The exhibition showcased the works of Shaker High School students and gave Harika a chance to discuss the benefits of art. Community members expressed delight in seeing the work on display. Thank you to everyone who took part in and attended this art show.
A special thank you goes out to:
SHS Faculty Members: Genevieve Chornyak, Andrew Krakat, Carrie Lue, Anne Manzella, Lynn Marie Paris, Marcus Puccioni
SHS Students: Anvi Adikoppula, Summer Artis, Jillian Carrothers, Alessandra Conti, Julia Cowan, Andrew Iannacone, Hana Kim, Lauren Lee-Chung, Meiqi Liang, Kayra Etirnne Maitre, Faitha Naj, Madeline Simson, Alina Song, Caroline Stark. Shanjana Vasanthakumar, Anya Vedhathiri
A special thank you goes out to:
SHS Faculty Members: Genevieve Chornyak, Andrew Krakat, Carrie Lue, Anne Manzella, Lynn Marie Paris, Marcus Puccioni
SHS Students: Anvi Adikoppula, Summer Artis, Jillian Carrothers, Alessandra Conti, Julia Cowan, Andrew Iannacone, Hana Kim, Lauren Lee-Chung, Meiqi Liang, Kayra Etirnne Maitre, Faitha Naj, Madeline Simson, Alina Song, Caroline Stark. Shanjana Vasanthakumar, Anya Vedhathiri
North Colonie is happy to announce that for the 2026-2027 school year we will be partnering, once again, with Colonie Youth Center, Catholic Central School, and Tiny Town of Latham to offer Universal Pre-Kindergarten to our North Colonie community. This year, for the first time, we will also house one class of UPK at Southgate Elementary.
Important Dates:
June 9, 2026 - UPK Lottery - Notification goes out to all registered families, letting families know if they have been selected for a seat or placed on our wait list.
June 12, 2026 - Families who are selected in the lottery must inform our registrar by 12 p.m. if they are accepting or declining their seat.
Read more about the program on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/article/2967027
Shaker High School’s Microsoft Office class has done it again! Students from Mrs. Jachym’s class achieved an impressive milestones in both Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint at the New York State level. This competition challenges students to demonstrate their mastery of Microsoft Office applications, with participants competing against both high school and college students across New York State.
Notably, Aiden Brady placed first in both Excel and PowerPoint, demonstrating exceptional skill across multiple platforms. Please see the list below for the full placement results from Shaker High School in New York State.
1st Place - Aiden Brady - Microsoft Excel
2nd Place - Shwe Zin Than - Microsoft Excel
3rd Place - Boshra Benantar - Microsoft Excel
6th Place - Amra Mohammed - Microsoft Excel
8th Place - Alex Mahan - Microsoft Excel
1st Place - Aiden Brady - Microsoft PowerPoint
2nd Place - Adrien Wirfel - Microsoft PowerPoint
3rd Place - Boshra Benantar - Microsoft PowerPoint
5th Place - Caleb Lopez Ruiz - Microsoft PowerPoint
6th Place - Laiba Awan - Microsoft PowerPoint
Congratulations to all of our students on this remarkable accomplishment—great work!
Notably, Aiden Brady placed first in both Excel and PowerPoint, demonstrating exceptional skill across multiple platforms. Please see the list below for the full placement results from Shaker High School in New York State.
1st Place - Aiden Brady - Microsoft Excel
2nd Place - Shwe Zin Than - Microsoft Excel
3rd Place - Boshra Benantar - Microsoft Excel
6th Place - Amra Mohammed - Microsoft Excel
8th Place - Alex Mahan - Microsoft Excel
1st Place - Aiden Brady - Microsoft PowerPoint
2nd Place - Adrien Wirfel - Microsoft PowerPoint
3rd Place - Boshra Benantar - Microsoft PowerPoint
5th Place - Caleb Lopez Ruiz - Microsoft PowerPoint
6th Place - Laiba Awan - Microsoft PowerPoint
Congratulations to all of our students on this remarkable accomplishment—great work!
On June 4, Latham Ridge Elementary School welcomed families, students, staff, and alumni for its fifth annual Gala, themed Light the Way. The evening brought the school community together to celebrate the creativity, talents, and unique qualities that help each Panther shine!
Families explored hallways filled with more than 2,000 pieces of student artwork, enjoyed musical performances by current students and alumni, and participated in hands on activities including light painting, lantern making, drum circles, puppet making, and more! Guests also had the chance to visit Crusoe, the beloved water horse inspired by this year's One School, One Book selection, "The Water Horse."
The Gala was a joyful celebration of the connections that make Latham Ridge such a special place for students and families alike!
Families explored hallways filled with more than 2,000 pieces of student artwork, enjoyed musical performances by current students and alumni, and participated in hands on activities including light painting, lantern making, drum circles, puppet making, and more! Guests also had the chance to visit Crusoe, the beloved water horse inspired by this year's One School, One Book selection, "The Water Horse."
The Gala was a joyful celebration of the connections that make Latham Ridge such a special place for students and families alike!
Tuesday night was an exciting one for our Civic Engagement and Leadership students, as they presented their yearlong capstone projects at the gallery walk symposium. To earn their Seal of Civic Readiness, students identified and investigated issues, developed methods to address the issues, and took informed civic action to address their findings. During the symposion, students shared their presentations with those in attendance, focusing on topics such as mental health, the power of mentors, the importance of art classes, the court system, and more. It was an afternoon filled with thought provoking discussions!
