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Shaker High School has a new principal - and the first female to hold the position. Crystal Fox has been named the next principal of Shaker High School. She will take over the role on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Read more here: https://www.northcolonie.org/article/3051784

Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Fox to this new role!

4 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Bison and Crystal Fox

Susan Deierlein and Christina Biviano have been helping students at Shaker Middle School discover what’s possible through compassion, teamwork, and high expectations. Guided by their motto, “Actually, they can,” the special education teachers have created meaningful opportunities for students to build confidence and independence, including through the school’s beloved Bison Brew coffee cart. Together, they continue to show that with the right support, every student can thrive.

“When everybody works together for the same reason, it just impacts the day, the child's life, immensely,” Mrs. Biviano said. Mrs. Deierlein agrees, adding, “The community is fantastic.”

Read more about Mrs. Deierlein and Mrs. Biviano on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/staffspotlight

4 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Christina Biviano (left) and Susan Deierlein (right)

Just in time for the rainy weather, WNYT @NewsChannel13 Meteorologist Paul Caiano stopped by Forts Ferry on Tuesday, July 28 to talk to fourth and fifth grade students about extreme weather, some of which can happen in the Capital Region. His presentation covered events such as hurricanes, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and more, while sharing some of his own personal experiences reporting on these events. Caiano then talked about his own path to becoming a meteorologist, telling students, “Whatever it is that you really enjoy and think about a lot, it’s really important to not let things stop you from achieving that goal and being whatever you want.”
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your insights, @PaulCaianoWeather!

5 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Paul standing in front with a screen reading extreme weather
Paul standing in front with a screen reading thunderstorms
Paul standing in front with a screen showing a lightening strike

Elizabeth Pomerville has supported students and families across North Colonie, bringing compassion, advocacy, and a lifelong connection to the district she proudly calls home. A Shaker High School graduate whose parents also dedicated their careers to North Colonie, Mrs. Pomerville has come full circle, helping students thrive while building strong partnerships with families and staff. As she looks ahead to retirement, she's excited for more travel, time with family, and new adventures, while reflecting on the place that has always felt like home.

“I’m so happy that I got to end my career here,” she said. “It feels like another full-circle moment.”

Read more about Mrs. Pomerville on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/staffspotlight

11 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Beth Pomerville
Hear firsthand what our North Colonie employees love about working in our district, then come see what makes our team so special at our Summer Job Fair on August 6 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. at 91 Fiddlers Lane, Latham! We're hiring for multiple positions and looking for excited individuals ready to make a difference. Meet our staff, learn about our opportunities, and interview on the spot (first come, first served). RSVP using the link in our bio, we can't wait to meet you!
18 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Hear firsthand what our North Colonie employees love about working in our district, then come see what makes our team so special at our Summer Job Fair on August 6 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. at 91 Fiddlers Lane, Latham! We're hiring for multiple positions and looking for excited individuals ready to make a difference. Meet our staff, learn about our opportunities, and interview on the spot (first come, first served). RSVP using the link in our bio, we can't wait to meet you!
Ready for Week Two? We sure are!

There are plenty of fresh produce items from the district gardens, along with pantry staples, available at Friday's Summer Garden Market. Stop by in front of Shaker Middle School every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to see what's available. As always, all items are free of charge. If you'd like to contribute, donations go directly back into supporting the district gardens. We hope to see you there!
18 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Flowers
For 22 years, Bob Pollaro has helped shape social studies education across North Colonie, combining his passion for history, leadership, and lifelong learning to support students and teachers throughout the district. As he prepares for retirement, he's looking forward to new adventures, including an Alaskan cruise, more time spent camping and fishing, and even learning to play the electric guitar. After more than two decades of service, Mr. Pollaro reflects most proudly on the opportunity to work alongside dedicated educators and help make a difference for students every day.

“The favorite part that I have in the role is being able to blend all of the different administrative roles from my love of history to working with kids and also working with teachers,” he said.

Read more about Mr. Pollaro on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/staffspotlight
18 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Bob Pollaro

**Staff Spotlight: Kimberly Jeram**
For 30 years, Kimberly Jeram has been a steady, compassionate presence at North Colonie, helping students discover that success is possible with the right support, patience, and encouragement. This June, she retired from the district and is looking ahead to new adventures, including a European trip planned for 2027 and plenty of future travel opportunities. Still, after three decades at North Colonie, she reflects most fondly on the people and relationships built along the way.
“I loved being here for 30 years,” she said. “It’s been a great place to work, and I’ve met some of the best people in my life. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Read more about Mrs. Jeram on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/staffspotlight

25 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Kimberly Jeram

This Friday, July 10, the North Colonie Annual Summer Garden Market will open! In addition to plenty of fresh vegetables from the district garden, pantry items will also be available for pickup. The market will run every Friday from July 10 through August 14, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Be sure to stop by Shaker Middle School to check out all that our gardens have to offer, each week will feature different items. As always, items are free of charge; however, if you would like to contribute, all donations will go directly back into the district gardens. We hope to see you there!

28 days ago, North Colonie Communications
Summer Garden Market
Our Summer Garden Market is making its return this summer! Every Friday, from July 10-August 14 from 10am to 12pm, stop by Shaker Middle School to check out the freshest produce from our district gardens! Every week will feature some different items. As always, items are free of charge. Any donations made will go directly back into the district gardens. We hope to see you on July 10!
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
A flyer with fruits and vegetables on it promoting the Summer Garden Market on Fridays from July 10 through August 14.
When school lets out, grocery bills go up for families who relied on free school meals. Resources in our community, like summer meals, Summer EBT, SNAP, and WIC, can help families put food on the table. Visit hungersolutionsny.org/find-food-help to learn more.
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
A flyer that reads, "When School is Out, Summer Food is In! Get help with food when school meals are on break!"
A flyer advertising summer meals that reads, "Kids can get free meals this summer at libraries, parks, community centers, and more! Many places offer fun activities, too. Find a spot near you: SummerMealsNY.org"
A flyer advertising Summer EBT that reads, "Summer EBT helps families with school-age kids buy food over the summer. Most eligible children are automatically enrolled, but some need to apply. Learn more: otda.ny.gov/summerebt."
A flyer advertising SNAP that reads, "SNAP provides benefits to buy food at grocery stores and farmers markets. SNAP helps families stretch their food budget so kids get the nutrition they need to learn and grow. See if you may be eligible: SNAPHelpNY.org."
A flyer advertising WIC that reads, "WIC provides healthy food, breastfeeding support, and more to pregnant women, new moms, and kids under age 5. Dads, grandparents, and caregivers can apply for kids in their care. Learn more: WICHelpNY.org."
Shaker High School just welcomed around 500 new freshmen! On Thursday, June 25, Shaker Middle School eighth graders, along with their families, friends, and teachers, filled the Shaker High H-Gym to celebrate as these students graduated and took the next step in their journey. They have all worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone and we are excited to see what they do next. Congratulations Shaker High Class of 2030, see you in the fall!
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
SMS students watch graduation
SMS teacher announces homeroom
SMS students watch graduation
SMS teacher announces homeroom
SMS student cheers on friend
SMS student hugs teacher
Proud SMS parent videotapes graduation
SMS graduate and teacher
SMS graduates with their certificates
Friends hug after SMS graduation
You shared your first day photos with us - now share the last day photos! Photos can be shared with us through Facebook & Instagram (North Colonie Central School District), email (communications@nccsk12.org), or in our social media comments. Download a PDF of the Last Day of School signs: https://aptg.co/MSd_TN

(Please note that by submitting your photos, you allow the North Colonie CSD to use and display them online. When submitting photos on social media, please be sure to avoid using any identifiers like names and house numbers.)
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
STUDENTS posing with last day of school signs
last day of school sign
STUDENTS posing with last day of school signs
STUDENTS posing with last day of school signs
It's finally here - welcome to the last week of school! Fifth graders from Loudonville and Boght Hills started off the final week of elementary school with a group photo. Best of luck to the Class of 2033! We can't wait to see what this week and the future holds for you and the rest of our North Colonie community.
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
group of loudonville students
group of students forming a 2026
Were you, a family member, or friend featured in our 2025-26 district calendar? Would you like an extra copy? Come to our Central Office at 91 Fiddlers Lane in Latham, NY to pick up a calendar, while supplies last!

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Friday. Questions? Email communications@nccsk12.org.
about 1 month ago, North Colonie Communications
celebrate 75 years of excellence! get your calendar today!
Congratulations to the newest members of the Shaker High School Alumni Hall of Fame! A record number of eight new members were inducted into the SHS Alumni Hall of Fame on Monday, June 15. The event took place at SHS, giving alumni and their families a chance to revisit the halls of their alma mater, while enjoying some treats and beverages from the Shaker Middle School Bison Brew. Read more about the event on our website: https://www.northcolonie.org/article/2998673
about 2 months ago, North Colonie Communications
Alumni Hall of Fame recipients
Alumni Hall of Fame Bison Brew crew, six great baristas
Alumni Hall of Fame Student readers
Alumni Hall of Fame kevin gruft and deb keough
Alumni Hall of Fame Jerilee and family
Alumni Hall of Fame Todd Weiss
Alumni Hall of Fame shaker select group photo
Alumni Hall of Fame arielle roberts and lisa morgan
Alumni Hall of Fame arielle roberts and family
Alumni Hall of Fame the great kathleen skeals, great ashley miller, great linda harrison

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!

about 2 months ago, North Colonie Communications
share your summer plans with us
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!
about 2 months ago, North Colonie Communications
Bus driver, Mr. Stew, holds a plaque while standing in front of a school bus.
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.
about 2 months ago, North Colonie Communications
Full club picture
Student gives speech
Student gives speech
Student gives speech
Student gives speech
Audience applauds student's speech

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!

about 2 months ago, North Colonie Communications
Global Foundaries
Student holding a beaver skull
Students listening to an orthodontist
Shaker Middle School students
Restaurateur speaks to students
SMS Students listen to SHS student panel
SHS student panel
SHS's LaFollette Hall Principal Nikki Newidomy shows students how to use Yondr pouches
SMS students meet freshman seminar teachers
SMS students go to lunch