
Putting FACS skills to the test! Francis Estrella, a student from Morgan Armstrong's Textile & Design class, took what he learned in class and transformed it an official brand.
For the class, students were tasked with creating a clothing company logo and one clothing item. Francis made a beanie hat lined with silk to accommodate people that struggle with frizzy hair. He then took the project a step further, pitching his brand, which he named "Director," to a clothing manufacturer. The slogan for Director is "Your Life Is Your Movie," which Francis says reminds us that we are the boss of our lives - no one but yourself can direct this movie, also known as your life.
"I am beyond proud of him," said Armstrong. "This is exactly what it's all about!"


We have changemakers here in North Colonie! Thursday night, three of those educators were recognized at the Capital Area School Development Association's (CASDA) Annual Awards & Friends of Education Celebration.
Board of Education President Linda Harrison was recognized for Excellence in School Board Service. She is currently serving in her twelfth year as President of the Board. Mrs. Harrison was a social studies teacher at Shaker for 34 years.
Former North Colonie Superintendent Joe Corr was honored with the Friends of Education Award for his service as a social studies teacher, department supervisor and superintendent here in North Colonie. He can still be seen on the sidelines at football games and is very involved in the school community.
Farm to School Facilitator Amber Cost was also honored with the Friends of Education Award. Starting in her new position this school year, Amber will have helped to start gardens at all eight school buildings by the end of the school year. She has worked with Food Services to incorporate produce into the cafeterias and has incorporated lessons on agriculture and sustainability into the curriculum around the district.
Congratulations to all!

Tiny hands, big imaginations! The William K. Sanford Town Library hosted the North Colonie Art Exhibit Reception on Tuesday, April 29. Students in grades K-5 from all six of our elementary schools were in attendance, showing off their work to friends and family. The display was filled with color and creativity, as every piece told a story — great job to our elementary artists!

The Forts Ferry garden is coming along! Students have worked in conjunction with Forts Ferry Farm to construct garden beds which are nearly complete. The space where the garden will go is cleared out and ready for installation on May 17, during the Forts Ferry Day of Service from 9am-12pm. We hope to see you there!






Forts Ferry third graders are getting closer and closer to their trout release day! On Friday Mr. Ronald Dorn, from the Clearwater chapter of Trout Unlimited, came into speak to the students about the release day on May 14 in Saratoga Springs. Mr. Dorn showed students some of the tools they would be using, and explained some of the safety precautions and what to expect that day. Excitement is building as the trout continue to grow in their tank in Mrs. Parks' Innovation Lab!

Thursday night was the annual NCCSD Physical Education Leadership Awards! PE Faculty members selected representatives from grades 5-12 who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and effort in PE classes. 48 students in total were honored in front of family and friends in the Shaker Middle School auditorium. Congratulations to all! For a full list of student winners, click on the link in our bio.

It's Transportation Staff Appreciation Day! All of our transportation staff members were celebrated Monday with a breakfast with Superintendent Kathleen Skeals. Today, there was a luncheon held at the bus garage for all bus drivers, bus aides, mechanics and other transportation staff members. Thank you for everything you do for the students and staff in our district!

Applications to request a mail-in ballot for the upcoming school budget vote are now open! The deadline to request a mail-in ballot online is May 12 at 4 p.m. Any requests after that time must be made in person at the NCCSD Central Office at 91 Fiddlers Lane. Ballots must be received by the district clerk by 5 p.m. on the day of the election (May 20, 2025).


Last week, Forts Ferry and Southgate students were treated to the Harvest of the Month! Members of the Food Services team and Farm to School Facilitator Amber Cost pickled New York grown carrots for students to sample pickled carrot chips (both dill and bread and butter options) during their lunch time. Students were then asked to give feedback. The Harvest of the Month program aims to promote healthy eating habits and educate students about the benefits of incorporating fresh produce into their diets.

The Magical Yet! Thank you to Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services, Mrs. Naté Turner-Hassell, for reading this wonderful book to Mrs. McMillen's kindergarten students at Forts Ferry on Monday, March 24. She was kind enough to come back on Tuesday to read to Mrs. O'Connor's second graders and Ms. Beach's fourth graders!




Winter Break will run from Feb. 17 to Feb. 21. See you again Monday, Feb. 24.
