ADK - April 2026 - Newsletter

APRIL 2026

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

Bike Safety PRESENTATION Connected Boonville Elementary kindergarten students recently took part in an engaging Bike Safety Presentation led by Boonville Police Department’s Officer Al Montegari. Students learned important foundational skills, including the different parts of a bicycle, essential rules of the road, proper hand signals, and other helpful safety tips to keep them safe while riding. The presentation provided students with practical, age-appropriate information to build confidence and awareness as they begin to explore biking. Following the lesson, each student received a helmet generously donated by the Elks, reinforcing the importance of safety and ensuring every child is equipped for a safe riding experience.

ADIRONDACK

OPEN GYM Our Spring Break Open Gym was an absolute blast, and the energy on the court was electric! It was inspiring to see so many athletes show up during their time off to put in the work and sharpen their skills.

The community spirit was at an all-time high, and we loved seeing everyone pushing each other to get better. Thank you to everyone who came out to make this event such a success.

YWCA- THE COUNCIL Kevin from the YWCA - Mohawk Valley came this week to begin “The Council” lessons which are for HS boys only. In this series he teaches the HS students to be men of honor, safe and healthy development, etc.

Another representative will be coming to our Open HUB to table and connect families with this useful resource!

NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER The Neighborhood Center joined us to facilitate meaningful conversations focused on mental health and the importance of creating safe, healthy boundaries. These discussions provided students with valuable tools to better understand their emotions, build healthy relationships, and recognize the importance of self-care and personal well-being. Creating opportunities for open dialogue helps foster a supportive environment where students feel heard, respected, and empowered to make positive choices.

CENTER FOR FAMILY LIFE AND RECOVERY Christina from Center for Life and Recovery (CFLR), made families aware of the dangers currently going around amongst the youth population and how we can combat it! CFLR will be back for Open HUB next month to table and connect families to valuable resources!

EARTH DAY PRESENTATION We had Eileen from the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority come to the HUB to talk with our middle school and high school students about recycling and our local transfer site in relation to Earth Day that was coming up.

CONNECTED ADIRONDACK

This month we saw a surge in the number of families seeking support. While this increase highlights the growing economic pressures on our neighbors, it also reinforced why the HUB is so vital to our community. Our team worked hard to ensure everyoneespecially families joining us for the first time-received the resources that they needed.

We are proud to serve as a reliable anchor for those navigating life’s challenges. We were happy to have the Willow Network and Boonville Life Center with us again, providing critical community resources to those who visited.

HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES CONNECTED BOONVILE ELEMENTARY

Creativity and quick thinking were on full display during Connected Boonville Elementary’s April HUB Huddles, which were filled with springtime fun and teamwork. Students worked together to create a vibrant spring-themed bulletin board, bringing color and creativity to their space.

They also enjoyed a unique round of Spring Bingo, where clues challenged them to think critically and determine the correct spaces on their cards.

To top it off, students collaborated to solve a spring-themed escape room, strengthening their problem-solving and communication skills while having a great time. These activities highlight the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity in building skills that support student success both in and out of the classroom.

HUB HUDDLES CONNECTED ADIRONDACK MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL

This month, our HUB was packed with fun activities, even with spring break in the mix! We kicked off the month with an Easter prize scavenger hunt before heading into break. When we returned, students had a blast playing a variety of large games together. To wrap up the month, we welcomed the OneidaHerkimer Solid Waste Authority, who provided an engaging presentation on recycling in honor of Earth Day. The Neighborhood Center also continued their monthly visits, checking in on students’ mental health and, as always, bringing along fun fidgets as incentives for participation.

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.

We are thrilled about the launch of the new School-Based Health Center in partnership with Rome Health! By bringing primary healthcare directly to our campus, we are working together to ensure every student stays healthy, focused, and ready to succeed!

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.

Student

School Faculty/Staff

Connected Site Coordinator

Family

Services / Resources

Team Approach

Trends Food insecurity towards the end of the month continues to be a struggle in the district and community. In order to combat this, We have held Open HUB each month in order for families to get the much needed items. In addition, we have provided food boxes when needed. Along with tangible items, additional resources for food are given to families as well.

COLLABORATIONS & & Contributions Contributions Neighborhood Center YWCA - Mohawk Valley “The ted Connec e ould lik w Council” k c a d Adiron ne everyo k Oneida-Herkimer Solid n a h t to nnot ! We ca s p l e Waste Authority h that u! hout yo t i w t i do Center For Life Recovery

Emily DePasquale- Clothing Colleen Grow- Brown Bags Gail Waite- Reusable Bags Lodging Kit (Eric Martin and team)Check Donation Season’s ADK Cafe (Erin Gydesen and family)- Check Donation

UPCOMINGEvents Events MAY 21ST YWCA - THE COUNCIL SERIES

JUNE 11TH

MAY 29TH NETSMARTS IN THE MS

DESTRESS WITH MARINA FROM CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION

JUNE 18TH OPEN HUB

TRAININGHighlights Highlights Building Financial Wellness with First Source Federal Credit Union Deb and Rachel from First Source Federal Credit Union led an engaging Partner Highlight training focused on Community Financial Education and Wellness. They shared valuable information about the programs they offer to support financial literacy and life-ready skills, including two interactive online platforms—Banzai! and Enrich—which provide students with hands-on learning experiences around budgeting, saving, and realworld financial decisionmaking.

They also highlighted the Reality Fair, an immersive event that allows participants to step into real-life scenarios and practice managing expenses and financial responsibilities. The session provided meaningful insight into the tools available to support student learning and empowerment around financial wellness.

INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights Building Stronger Communities Through Purpose and Passion Nonprofit organizations are not meant to serve as temporary solutions, but as long-term, sustainable supports that strengthen communities for years to come. Through care, consistency, trust-building, and meaningful connections, nonprofit leaders continue to address real challenges while creating vibrant and supportive environments for all. Attending the NYS Council of Nonprofits Summit was another inspiring opportunity to learn, collaborate, and be energized alongside passionate nonprofit leaders who share the same commitment to making a lasting difference in their communities.

Honoring Advocacy During National Child Abuse Prevention Month During National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, members of our Administrative Team had the honor of attending the Child Abuse Prevention Breakfast hosted by the Oneida County Department of Children and Family Services.

The event highlighted the importance of community collaboration, advocacy, and continued efforts to support the safety and well-being of children and families. It was an inspiring opportunity to stand alongside community leaders and organizations dedicated to creating brighter, safer futures for children throughout our region.

INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights Mobile Resources Roll In: Fidelis Community Office RV at the Connected Impact Center On April 24th, the Fidelis Community Office RV parked in front of the Connected Impact Center, providing an accessible and welcoming space for students and families to learn more about available health insurance options and community resources. Staff on-site offered guidance, answered questions, and supported individuals in navigating important coverage information. The visit helped strengthen community connections and ensured that attendees had access to valuable tools and information to support their health and well-being.

Connected Purple Flamingo Thrift & Gift Grand Opening and Vendor Fair

Connected Purple Flamingo Thrift & Gift will celebrate its Grand Opening by welcoming students, staff, and community members into a unique space focused on creativity, connection, and opportunity. The shop features a variety of thrifted treasures, gifts, and student-supported initiatives while promoting community engagement and hands-on experiences.

Community members are also invited to attend the upcoming Vendor Fair, where local vendors and organizations will come together to showcase products, services, and resources. It promises to be a fun-filled event supporting local businesses and community partnerships.

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) 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.

PROMOTING CHILD SAFETY ON T H E A I R W AV E S Community Educator, Amanda, participated in radio interviews with WIBX “This Week in the Mohawk Valley” and WUTQ “Talk of the Town” to highlight the mission of The Ride for Missing Children and to promote child safety education throughout the Mohawk Valley. These outreach efforts help raise awareness, engage the community in meaningful conversation, and reinforce the importance of keeping children safe.

CONNECTED BELLAMY “4 RULES OF PERSONAL SAFETY” LEARNING SERIES

H U B H U D D L E : E VO L U T I O N OF THE 4 RULES

Interactive safety presentations were conducted in three Connected Bellamy 4th-grade classrooms (Ms. Martin/Ms. Bonanza, Mr. Mahardy, and Ms. Sabia), where students learned important bike safety protocols, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) “4 Rules of Personal Safety” (Check First, Take a Friend, Tell People No, and Tell a Trusted Adult), and key digital citizenship skills. A follow-up visit to Bellamy Elementary provided a second round of classroom presentations, continuing the “4 Rules of Personal Safety” curriculum to reinforce and ensure consistent safety messaging across 4th–6th grade levels.

HUB Huddles were held across John Joy, Ridge Mills, and Stokes Elementary, bringing important safety education directly to students during lunchtime. At John Joy, students participated in a cafeteria HUB Huddle focused on the Ride for Missing Children and general safety awareness, engaging in meaningful conversations about prevention while eating lunch. At Ridge Mills, discussions centered on bike and neighborhood safety, empowering students to take responsibility for their own safety both in their community and while riding. At Stokes, students completed interactive activity sheets that supported lessons on personal safety and interpersonal boundaries, including identifying trusted adults, practicing how to say “no,” and learning strategies to stay in control of their personal safety.

R I D E F O R M I S S I N G C H I L D R E N AT H U B H U D D L E S HUB Huddles were held across three elementary schools—John Joy, Ridge Mills, and Stokes—bringing important safety conversations directly to students during lunchtime. At John Joy, students participated in a cafeteria HUB Huddle where discussions focused on the Ride for Missing Children and general safety awareness, helping to engage students in preventative education in a relaxed, welcoming setting. At Ridge Mills, students chatted about bike and neighborhood safety, with a focus on empowering them to take charge of their own safety both on their bikes and within their community. At Stokes, students took part in an interactive HUB Huddle using activity sheets to explore personal safety and interpersonal boundaries, practicing how to identify trusted adults, say “no” when needed, and stay in control of their personal safety.

COMMUNITY EVENT: TOUCH-A-TRUCK The Community Educator for the Ride for Missing Children was excited to participate in the local “Touch-A-Truck” event, where safety resources were shared with attending families and community members. Staff engaged with participants to raise awareness of missing children initiatives and highlight local safety programming, providing an opportunity for meaningful community connection and education in a family-friendly setting.

UPCOMINGEvents May 28th @ 9:15am: NA Walbran “Ride Route” Presentations May 29th @ 9am: ADK MS Netsmartz Presentations May 29th @ 2pm: Jefferson Elementary “Ride Route” Presentation June 1st @ 9:30am: Watson Williams “Ride Route” Presentation June 4th @ 9:15am: JFK MS “Ride Route” Presentation June 5th ALL DAY: Ride for Missing Children June 15th @ 8am: VVS Safety Presentation

MEET AMANDA GALINDO As a Community Educator for Ride For Missing Children, 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