Schenectady City School District

Good afternoon,

I hope you are doing well and had a good week.

This week, like many of you, I feel sadness and heartbreak after learning about the untimely death of young Zion Delancy. Zion was a second grader who died Wednesday evening after being struck by a car. The news of this young life lost way too soon hits us hard and deeply affects all of us. I wish to extend sincere condolences to Zion's loved ones. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

I encourage parents, guardians and caregivers to talk with your child as death impacts each of us in different ways. Any reaction is normal in the grief process and young children can become sad and scared. You can help by listening carefully and accepting their feelings. Our counselors and social workers will continue to be available for our students and staff. If you are concerned about your child, please contact your school counselor so we can provide support.

I also want to remind faculty and staff that our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to you 24/7. If you need support or even just to talk about your feelings, they are here to help you. You can find that information here.

This week our school community also lost Walter Simpkins, a pillar in the Schenectady community. Mr. Simpkins was a special man. He was a role model, a leader, and a friend to many. He cared deeply about people and his community, and impacted the lives of many. The Daily Gazette published an article. You can read that here. He too will be deeply missed.

Superintendent's Conference Day

Earlier this week, students did not have school because it was a "Superintendent's Conference Day." You might be wondering what that is and why it is important. Superintendent's Conference Days are days that are set aside for all district faculty and staff to participate in professional learning related to their specific role in the district. These can include a keynote, collaborative learning, workshops, and lessons led by our own staff. These days are important because they address important and current initiatives, provide tools and resources, allow for thought partners and mentorship and provide best practices and tips. All our employees engage in skill work that involves, collaboration, problem-solving, and learning so that everyone has an opportunity to grow with one thing in mind ... Student and Graduate Success, the first pillar of our Strategic Plan. Below are some photos. There are many more on our social media sites. #passionatepeople #studentandgraduatesuccess

Congratulations to Central Park Middle School Students
Winner in the "What's So Cool About Manufacturing" Student Video Contest

A team of Central Park Middle School eighth graders won the top prize in the "What's So Cool About Manufacturing" contest. They were honored on Wednesday evening at Proctors Theatre.

The team, which won "Outstanding Overall Program," was paired with Environment One in Niskayuna and tasked with creating a video about the manufacturer, their products, and their employees. Watch the entry below.

Please join me in congratulating the team which produced a fantastic video.

Thank you to Ariana Deonarine

Earlier this week, I received an email that included an interesting student project that looked familiar. It was a student's portrait project of me. Tenth grader Ariana Deonarine, chose to draw me as her inspiration for her 10th grade studio art portrait project. This was her first time drawing a realistic portrait. I was moved by this and am extremely honored and grateful to Ariana. She did a great job and I see she even captured the MBK button that I wear on my lapel every day. The art will be displayed at the Rotterdam Mall Show on May 5. I'm also hoping one day you will see it hanging in my office.

Congressman Tonko Hosts Town Hall at SHS

On Monday evening, Schenectady High School hosted a town hall meeting led by Congressman Paul Tonko. A special thanks to our student Miguel, who expertly managed the soundboard and controlled the audio and visuals throughout the evening. I'd also like to recognize the safety team members and the custodial staff at the high school for their hard work in helping the event run smoothly.

Black Family Wellness Day

The Links Inc. held Black Family Wellness Day at Schenectady High School last weekend. This was a great event for our families and community and provided many resources, information, giveaways and more. Thank you to the team that brought these resources to our community.

Superintendent's Advisory Council

The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council met on Monday. Students provided feedback on the city's comprehensive plan which covers future infrastructure, housing, transportation, recreation, economic growth and more. Thank you to the city of Schenectady for joining us and giving our student's the opportunity to learn more and provide feedback. #studentvoice

You can share your thoughts on the plan by taking this survey

2030 Strategic Plan

Many of the campaigns that you've been seeing such as Teacher of the Week, Passionate People, Alumni Profiles, Did You Know, and #ProjectBeHere are part of our Strategic Plan. They are examples of how our four pillars are put into action every day. You can check out our Strategic Plan and learn about each of the pillars on our website here and on social media.

Teacher of the Week

This week, Anthony Lewis is our featured Teacher of the Week. 🎉 Mr. Lewis is one of many passionate educators in our district, and we’re so grateful for the 28 years he's been teaching our students. #passionatepeople

Alumni Profile

Meet Gabriella Woods, SHS Class of 2008, who is now an Ob/Gyn Physician in San Diego. Congratulations to Dr. Woods on all her accomplishments. Our alumni profiles are examples of student and graduate success.
#studentandgraduatesuccess

Pillar No. 2: Passionate People

This week, we proudly recognize Jimmy Martinez as our passionate person of the week. We are grateful to Mr. Martinez for all his hard work and dedication. Passionate People is pillar #2 of our strategic plan. #passionatepeople

Did /Do You Know?

Teacher Recruitment Fair, April 1

Do you know a Passionate Person who wants to teach in Schenectady? Join us at our recruitment fair on April 1, from 3-6 p.m. at 530 Liberty St. To learn more about the open positions, click here.

Visual and Performing Arts Project

Our second annual monster project is underway. Schenectady High School students taking ceramics are shaping clay creatures based on drawings from first grade students. The high schoolers will bring the drawings to life and gift the monsters to the young artists in May.

Building Culture and Climate

On Wednesday, the Class of 2025 celebrated 100 days.... that's 100 days until graduation. The senior class spent the last period of the day emjoying ice cream with their peers and raising money through their 'pie a principal' fundraiser. Thank you to Jayda and Luna from SHS Honor Society for planning the event.

The Culture & Climate Survey closes tonight

You still have time. Go here to take survey now.

Superintendent Coffee Chats

My next coffee chats will be held next week. Everyone is invited.

• Tuesday, March 25, 6 p.m

• Friday, March 28, 7 a.m.
  

Blue Roses Theatre Presents School of Rock

The Blue Rose Theatre Company proudly presents School of Rock! 🎸 Join us on April 3, 4, or 5 at 7 PM. This production was made possible with the expertise of our music director, Benjamin Zoleski, who was part of the music production team for this musical when it was on Broadway. Don’t miss out on a night of unforgettable magic

Lastly, how could I leave this out? I want to wish 8-year old Angelique Kindle a Happy Birthday. I met her yesterday at Pleasant Valley. She wants to be a singer. I hope she's having the best day.

Have a fantastic week. Please have some fun, get some rest and enjoy a little down time.

Sincerely,

Carlos M. Cotto, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools

MOBILE APP SUPPORT Click here to watch a short video on how to set your school and language preferences on our mobile app: hhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saNC9ek2Lqg