From the Office of Superintendent D. Joseph Corr
Dear North Colonie Families:
WNYT Newschannel 13 visited the Innovation Spaces at Shaker Middle School this week.
Feature: North Colonie Innovates
Every school day these spaces buzz with activity and energy. Several (similar yet slightly different stories) are available to watch on WNYT’s website. We are so incredibly proud of the great work being done by our Innovation teachers. Kudos to sixth grader Grace Clough who was interviewed by reporter Kumi Tucker!
Good News
- Congratulations to all of Shaker High School students who made the Q2 Honor Roll. See the Honor Roll list here. Note: If your child is on the opt-out list, their name will not appear online.
- Shaker Varsity Cheer 📣 is headed to the state championship!
Updates/Reminders
- Report Your Child’s Absence: We’ve created a simple Google form to streamline attendance.This form must be used to report all student absences (even if it’s not COVID-19 related). Please do not use this form for early/late dismissals. Learn more about our new Student Absence Form.
- Test Kits: The District will be sending home another supply of free rapid tests for students (similar to the distribution prior to February break) for use, as needed.
- Colonie Town Library Newsletter: Check out all of the great events in their March/April Newsletter. Homework help is available Mondays at 5:30 p.m. (K-8).
- A Board of Education Budget Meeting will be held Mon., March 7 at 7 p.m. at Shaker Middle School. A livestream link will be posted soon.
- Superintendent Conference Day: March 18 (no school).
The Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Whether watching television or on social media, it’s been very difficult to avoid the news. The situation is difficult to process for adults, however for children of any age it can be especially so. Following are some resources you may find useful to address any questions and concerns your children may have. If your child needs support, please contact their school counselor.
- How to Talk to Kids About the Ukraine Invasion
- How to Talk With Students About the Russia-Ukraine War: 5 Tips
- How to Talk to Children About What’s Happening in Ukraine
Remembering Coach M
Sunday (March 6) marks one year since Southgate Elementary School P.E. Teacher Coach Mravlja (Coach M) passed away. Coach M, who was always incredibly supportive of the PTA, is greatly missed. The school community, including students and staff, celebrated Coach M today by wearing baseball hats as he loved baseball. He also loved coffee so the Southgate PTA created a QR code for the school community to use to get a cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee. Learn more about this thoughtful gesture on the Southgate PTA’s Twitter account.
Enjoy the weekend.
Sincerely,
D. Joseph Corr
Superintendent