Adirondack - May 2026 - Newsletter

MAY 2026

CONNECTED ADIRONDACK NEWSLETTER TABLE OF CONTENTS Connected District Bulletin Connected Partners Collaborations & Contributions Training Highlights Initiative Wide Highlights Staff

The Adirondack MS/HS HUB had the exciting opportunity to welcome Petzotics for an unforgettable animal experience! Students and staff loved meeting the amazing animals they brought along. The event was a huge hit, drawing in a large crowd of animal lovers and even helping some students step outside their comfort zones and face their fears. Everyone had a fantastic time, and we are already looking forward to welcoming Petzotics back again in June!

PREPARING FOR A SAFE AND MEMORABLE PROM Attendees of the Adirondack Prom had the opportunity to hear a meaningful presentation from two officers with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, along with a student speaker. Together, they shared important messages about making responsible decisions, understanding the potential consequences of risky behaviors, and prioritizing safety during prom season. The presentation provided students with valuable insights and served as a powerful reminder to make thoughtful choices that help ensure a safe and memorable celebration for everyone.

YWCA- THE COUNCIL Kevin from the YWCA-Mohawk Valley finished his series of “The Council” with his boys group. To celebrate the completion of the program, the students enjoyed a pizza party and received certificates recognizing their hard work and dedication throughout the series. The program honored each participant for successfully completing the group and becoming “Men of Honor.”

NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER The Neighborhood Center visited the Middle/High School HUB and spent time checking in with students on important topics such as mental health and overall wellbeing. The Neighborhood Center team brought along interactive games which encouraged students to answer thoughtful questions and students were rewarded with fun prizes for participating. It is always a great time having them here, and our students truly enjoy the positive conversations and activities they bring. We look forward to seeing them again in June!

CENTER FOR FAMILY LIFE AND RECOVERY In May, representatives from the Center for Family Life and Recovery (CFLR) visited Connected Adirondack High School to present to students about the dangers of vaping.

Through informative and engaging discussions, students learned about the health risks associated with vaping, the impact nicotine can have on developing brains, and the potential long-term consequences of using vape products.

SWEET LEARNING: EXPLORING HONEY AND POLLINATION This month, This month, we we welcomed welcomed Cornell Cornell Cooperative Cooperative Extension Extension Oneida Oneida County County to to provide provide an an engaging engaging honey honey tasting tasting experience for experience for our our middle middle school school students. students. Participants Participants sampled sampled and and evaluated evaluated four four different different varieties varieties of of honey, honey, each each produced from produced from distinct distinct plants plants and and flowers. flowers. The The hands-on hands-on activity activity offered offered aa unique unique opportunity opportunity to to learn learn about about agriculture, pollination, agriculture, pollination, and and the the ways ways different different nectar nectar sources sources influence influence flavor. flavor. Students Students enthusiastically enthusiastically compared compared their their observations and observations and ratings, ratings, with with Blueberry Blueberry Blossom Blossom and and Sunflower Sunflower honey honey emerging emerging as as the the clear clear favorites favorites of of the the day. day. The The experience combined experience combined learning learning and and discovery discovery in in aa fun fun and and memorable memorable way. way.

RIDE FOR MISSING CHILDREN MOHAWK VALLEY Connected Adirondack welcomed Ride for Missing Children Educator, Amanda, to present the NetSmartz Internet Safety Program to our students. Amanda engaged our 5th and 6th grade students in an interactive presentation focused on staying safe online, making smart choices while using technology, and recognizing potential internet dangers.

She also provided a modified version of the presentation for our high school students, tailored to address age-appropriate topics and challenges they may encounter in today's digital world. We are grateful for Amanda's time and expertise in helping our students build the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the internet safely and responsibly.

MEET GRACIE AND TANGO: A LESSON IN SERVICE AND SUPPORT This month, This month, Adirondack Adirondack Middle Middle School School welcomed welcomed representatives representatives from from Freedom Freedom Guide Guide Dogs Dogs for for an an informative informative and and engaging presentation. engaging presentation. Becky Becky and and Kayla, Kayla, accompanied accompanied by by their their guide guide dogs, dogs, Gracie Gracie and and Tango, Tango, shared shared insights insights into into the the extensive training extensive training guide guide dogs dogs receive receive and and the the vital vital role role they they play play in in supporting supporting individuals individuals with with visual visual impairments impairments and and other disabilities. other disabilities. Students Students gained gained aa greater greater understanding understanding of of accessibility, accessibility, independence, independence, and and the the meaningful meaningful partnerships between partnerships between guide guide dogs dogs and and the the people people they they serve. serve. The The presentation presentation provided provided aa valuable valuable learning learning experience experience and fostered and fostered appreciation appreciation for for the the important important work work of of service service animals. animals.

CONNECTED ADIRONDACK

This month highlighted the ongoing need for family support services in our community.

Our team worked diligently to ensure that every family—especially those visiting for the first time—received the resources and guidance they needed. We are proud to serve as a steady and trusted support for families navigating life’s challenges. We were also grateful to welcome back the Willow Network and Boonville Life Center, who once again provided valuable community resources and support to those who attended.

HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES CONNECTED BOONVILE ELEMENTARY

Connected Boonville Elementary HUB Huddles have been full of creativity, teamwork, and fun this spring! Students spread kindness by creating thoughtful Teacher Appreciation and Mother’s Day cards to celebrate the important people in their lives. As we get ready to “splash into June,” students designed colorful ducks for the HUB bulletin board to brighten the HUB. HUB Huddles also participated in the OneidaHerkimer Solid Waste Authority Spring Challenge, learning about environmental responsibility in an engaging way. Students enjoyed a variety of games and activities, with a favorite being “Boom, Clap, Snatch,” where listening skills, focus, and quick thinking were put to the test. It has been wonderful to see students building connections, practicing important life skills, and having fun together!

HUB HUDDLES CONNECTED ADIRONDACK MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL

The Adirondack Middle/High School HUB is a safe, welcoming space where students can build relationships, develop life skills, peer support, and engage in positive activities during and after school. The HUB provides students with opportunities to connect with trusted adults and peers while participating in enrichment activities that promote personal growth, wellness, and school connectedness. The HUB also offers tangible items such as hygiene items, clothing, school supplies and other needed items for students to get through their school day.

Student

School Faculty/Staff

Connected Site Coordinator

Family

Services / Resources

Team Approach

Trends Food insecurity continues to be a challenge within the district and surrounding community, and Open HUB plays an important role in addressing this need. More than a food and hygiene distribution program, Open HUB serves as a monthly touchpoint designed to connect families with the supports they need to thrive. Families are invited to access essential items while also engaging with staff who can help identify barriers related to housing, transportation, employment, mental health, childcare, and other areas of need. By assessing individual circumstances and connecting families to appropriate community resources, Open HUB helps bridge service gaps and ensures families receive coordinated, comprehensive support in one convenient location.

COLLABORATIONS & & Contributions Contributions ted Connec ike would l k c a d n Adiro eryone v e k n a t to th e canno W ! s p l e that h ou! thout y do it wi

YWCA Lodging Kit Season’s ADK Cafe Cornell Cooperative Extension Ride For Missing Children Freedom Guide Dogs Petzotics

Center for Family Life and Recovery Willow Network The Neighborhood Center Oneida County Sheriff’s Department Ryan Jennings- Snacks and School Supplies Kathy Gunn- Men’s Belt Kids in Need Foundation- School Supplies

Connected PARTNERS While usage of the Rubenzahl, Knudsen & Associates Psychological Services, PC (RKA) mental health clinic has recently decreased, keeping this resource available ensures our community always has a vital safety net for professional support. Its presence remains essential for providing proactive care and immediate assistance whenever it is needed most.

The School-Based Health Center continues to be an essential resource for Connected Adirondack students and families, providing convenient access to medical and mental health services directly within the school community. As the Connected Site Coordinator, I work closely with students, families, and school staff to help connect individuals to these services when appropriate. Intake packets are available through my office, and I am available to assist families with completing enrollment paperwork, answering questions about available services, and facilitating referrals to ensure students receive the support they need.

By maintaining easy access to care, the School-Based Health Center helps reduce barriers and supports the overall health and well-being of our school community.

The Resiliency Project proposes that the key to success with children and their families is through a collaborative approach forming a caring and responsive Team that is dedicated to serving the Adirondack Central School District, Camden Central School District, Holland Patent Central School District and Rome City School District; creating and strengthening Connections in the Home, School and Community. There is a dedicated Resiliency Coordinator, Safe School Engagement Specialist and Oneida County Family and Community Service liaison, that collaborate on each case.

Unless it is imminent risk, prior to calling CPS, place in a Resiliency referral so we can assist, "Support, Don't Report".

This Team is intended to be an extension to your family, your child’s school and other supports that may already be in place to ensure that everyone can be successful, while bridging the gap between home, school and the community. The team can meet wherever you are most comfortable to provide support!

Go to the Connected LINK Referral form. This will connect you with your dedicated Connected Site Coordinator who can assist you with basic needs and to create a connection with the Resiliency Team! The Resiliency Team is available on site at the Connected IMPACT Center, 207 North James St. Rome on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10am-2pm, or by scheduled appointments. Need to make a LINK referral? Click here to get started.

UPCOMINGEvents Events JUNE 15TH AND JUNE 16TH COTTON CANDY HUB HUDDLE PARTY

JUNE 26TH 6:30 PM CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

TRAININGHighlights Highlights Connected Partner Highlight: Legal Aid As part of our May Connected Partner Highlight, we welcomed Olivia Furman and Linda Lark from Legal Aid Society to share information about the valuable services their organization provides to individuals and families in our community. They explained the intake and screening process and discussed the wide range of civil legal matters they assist with, including evictions, landlord-tenant disputes, access to healthcare, green card renewals, estate planning, divorce and family law issues, and foreclosure prevention. They also highlighted their partnership with the Office for the Aging and emphasized that their services focus exclusively on civil matters rather than criminal cases. The presentation provided staff with a greater understanding of available legal resources and how Legal Aid can help connect community members with support during challenging situations.

May All Staff Meeting Focuses on Family Engagement and Community Partnerships

During the May All Staff meeting, Connected team members participated in breakout sessions centered on strengthening family engagement strategies across our districts and communities. Staff had the opportunity to collaborate, share successful practices, and explore new ways to build meaningful connections with students and families. The meeting also featured a presentation from Sleep in Heavenly Peace, which highlighted the organization's mission of ensuring that every child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep. Their presentation provided valuable insight into the impact of community partnerships and the resources available to support local families. The meeting served as an opportunity for professional growth, collaboration, and continued commitment to supporting the whole child and family.

INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights

Strengthening the Future: Insights from the New York State Education Department Portrait of a Graduate Conference Connected Herkimer Project Manager Shae recently participated in the Exploring New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) Portrait of a Graduate conference, a collaborative forum focused on integrating key student attributes into educational practice. The conference provided a deeper understanding of the six core competencies outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate framework and highlighted the vital role community schools play in supporting this statewide vision.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in meaningful discussions about current district efforts and explored innovative opportunities for future growth. The experience reinforced that the Connected HUB serves as a natural environment for fostering these competencies by strengthening student-community connections, promoting engagement, and supporting collaborative partnerships.

Shae returned with valuable resources, fresh ideas, and practical strategies to build upon the work already taking place across the Connected Initiative. These insights will be shared with both Connected Districts and to further enhance programming and support for students and families.

Strengthening Our Impact Through Statewide Collaboration Connected Rome Senior Site Coordinator Katherine Fountain attended the Empower Youth Success Conference. It provided an opportunity to connect with professionals from across New York State, and engage in meaningful networking and learning. There were two very impactful sessions that she has committed to sharing with the Connected Initiative. Am I Welcome? Setting the Course for Impactful Parent Engagement offered valuable insight into the shared challenges and successes of increasing family involvement, while Every Day Matters: Our Path to Better Attendance was especially impactful because improving attendance has been a goal of mine at Gansevoort for several years.The session Learning about the Walking Bus as an initiative was also inspiring—that team shared how they walked routes before school started to determine timing, worked closely with their insurance company to address liability concerns, and secured donations for winter gear and snacks to support participating students. Overall, this conference was beneficial. It refreshed our thinking, reinforced the value of collaboration, and highlighted the importance of providing Connected staff with opportunities to learn from and connect with others doing this work across the state.

INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights Learning Together: Connected Initiative Joins the American Federation of Teachers Community Schools Intensive in Long Beach We would also like to recognize and thank the Rome CSD Administration team members who joined us at the National Community Schools and Family Engagement Conference. Their participation demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the Connected Community Schools Initiative and strengthening the district's vision for student success.

Together, we presented on the Connected Community Schools Initiative and engaged in an afternoon of strategic planning focused on developing an action plan for the 2026–2027 school year.

A key priority identified by the leadership team is the continued alignment of the Community Schools framework with district priorities, including Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, school safety initiatives, and other strategic goals. We are grateful for the leadership and collaboration of Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Jennifer DePerno, Director of Elementary Education Dana Benzo, Director of Secondary Education Melissa Sisco, Bellamy Elementary Assistant Principal Joanne Lalonde, and Gansevoort Elementary Dean John Seifts, whose participation helped make this experience both productive and impactful.

The Connected Initiative was honored to join the American Federation of Teachers for their two Day Community Schools Intensive retreat, held in Long Beach, CA. The Connected Team collaborated with over 20 different Community Schools leaders from across the United States. We shared our successes, and learned strategies implemented by others to enhance family engagement, support students, families, and staff in preparing to engage in education, and deliver on the Community Schools mission of ensuring all stakeholders collaborate for student success.

The Connected Team joined Community Schools team members from across the United States at the Community Schools X Family Engagement National Conference in Long Beach, CA. The team divided and conquered the wide selection of intensive workshops, covering topics from Multi-Tiered System of Supports integration. to family engagement, and workforce development to name a few. The three day conference also provided the opportunity to see Los Angeles consolidated schools in action during site visits, and a plenary opening featuring both local California school leaders and students sharing their experience utilizing the host of strategies guided by the community schools framework. This was an amazing opportunity to learn from others doing similar work, and to share our experiences with peers. We are excited to bring back what we learned to add to our community schools toolkit.

W H O A R E W E A N D W H AT D O W E D O ?

The Ride for Missing Children (RFMC) - Mohawk Valley is a community-driven organization dedicated to the prevention of child abduction and exploitation. While our mission is famously represented by our annual bicycle ride, our impact continues year-round through our dedicated Community Education program. In partnership with Connected Community Schools, we provide students and families with practical personal safety strategies, empowering the next generation with the tools they need to stay safe both online and in their everyday lives.

ON THE ROUTE: LEARNING SAFETY WITH THE RIDE FOR MISSING CHILDREN M O H A W K VA L L E Y Students across Willard Prior Elementary School, Westmoreland Primary Elementary School, Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School, N.A. Walbran Elementary School, and Jefferson Elementary School recently participated in The Ride for Missing Children - Mohawk Valley route presentations. Each session introduced students to the mission and highlighted the importance of community involvement in promoting child safety awareness.

Through interactive, age-appropriate discussions, students explored essential safety topics including bike safety, online safety, and personal safety skills. Younger students at Willard Prior engaged in a “Safety Superpowers” presentation focused on building confidence in making safe choices, while older students at Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School participated in discussions tailored to their increased independence and responsibilities.

Across all schools, students learned how their communities support child safety efforts and gained excitement for the Ride’s upcoming passage through the area in June.

BIKE SAFETY WEEK P R E S E N TAT I O N As part of Bike Safety Week at Ridge Mills Elementary, students participated in a highenergy presentation focused on safe and confident riding skills. Students learned to check their “Bike ABCs” (air, brakes, and chains) before riding, practiced hand signals, discussed helmet safety and visibility, and explored the importance of staying aware of their surroundings. Interactive activities, including a “Spot the Hazard” game, helped reinforce important lessons while keeping students actively engaged throughout the presentation.

H U B H U D D L E S I N AC T I O N : BUILDING SAFER CHOICES TOGETHER Students across Ridge Mills Elementary, Mount Markham Central School, Denti Elementary School, and Adirondack Jr./Sr. High School participated in engaging lunchtime HUB Huddles focused on personal safety, bike safety, and building confidence in everyday decision-making.

Across all buildings, students explored the 4 Rules of Personal Safety, with an emphasis on identifying trusted adults, supporting one another, and understanding how to stay safe in a variety of situations. Ridge Mills students connected the discussion to their upcoming Bike Safety Week, while Mount Markham students reflected on personal strengths and the tools they can use to care for themselves and others in alignment with The Ride for Missing Children- Mohawk Valley’s mission.

At Denti Elementary, students engaged in interactive safety stations featuring hands-on activities such as puzzles, coloring, and word games, while Adirondack Jr./Sr. High School students participated in age-appropriate discussions and scenarios focused on communication, decision-making, and maintaining safe connections as they grow older.

Together, these HUB Huddles provided students with meaningful, developmentally appropriate opportunities to strengthen safety awareness in a supportive and engaging environment.

B I K E S A F E T Y AT M Y L E S Students at Myles Elementary School participated in a full day of engaging safety education activities focused on bike safety, personal safety, and online safety.

Throughout the day, students practiced important personal safety skills, participated in interactive discussions, and reinforced lessons through games and activities, including a lively round of Bike Safety Jeopardy during lunchtime HUB Huddles. The enthusiasm and participation from students and staff created an exciting and encouraging learning environment centered around confidence, awareness, and community support.

N E T S M A R T Z P R E S E N TAT I O N Fifth and sixth grade students at Adirondack Middle School participated in a Netsmartz internet safety presentation focused on helping students make safe and responsible choices online. Topics included protecting personal information, recognizing inappropriate online behavior, understanding cyberbullying, and learning how to be an upstander for others in digital spaces. Students engaged in important conversations about navigating technology safely and respectfully.

UPCOMINGEvents June 9th - Gansevoort Bike Safety Presentation June 15th - VVS Safety Presentation June 23rd - Holland Patent Netsmartz Presentation July 15th - Fonda Youth Safety Day

MEET AMANDA GALINDO As a Community Educator for The Ride For Missing Children - Mohawk Valley, Amanda dedicates her time to engaging with each of the Connected Districts as well as other districts.

Amanda can be reached at amandag@connectedcs.org.

RFMC COMMUNITY EDUCATOR

HOW CAN I HELP YOU TODAY AND MAKE YOUR TOMORROW BETTER?

How can I help you today and make your tomorrow better?

If you know someone that may need help, our LINK system is here to assist with any struggle, worries, or needs that may arise. If you see someone in need of help (whether it's tangible items, assistance with housing, mental health, primary care, or anything) please contact one of us.

Connected Adirondack Connected Adirondack Team Team

Katie Rockwell

Belle Kranbuhl

Gayle Tien

YOUR ADIRONDACK YOUR ADIRONDACK MS/HS MS/HS SITE COORDINATOR SITE COORDINATOR

YOUR ADIRONDACK YOUR ADIRONDACK BOONVILLE BOONVILLE ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY SITE COORDINATOR SITE COORDINATOR & & PROJECT PROJECT MANAGER MANAGER

(315) 272-8968

(315) 525-3217

isabellak@connectedcs.org

gaylet@connectedcs.org

YOUR ADIRONDACK YOUR ADIRONDACK DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR

315-717-9748 katier@connectedcs.org

CENTRAL HUB TEAM KNOW SOMEONE F HELP? WHO IS IN NEED O

Have them reach out to a Site Coordinator today!

ALEXIS TOWNE

KALI FOUNTAIN

KAELYNN BARBER

DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF IMPACT

DELIVERY TEAM

NORA BAJOHR

DUSTIN TROTZ