WINTER BREAK EDITION
CONNECTED CENTRAL VALLEY
NEWSLETTER
TABLE OF CONTENTS Connected District Bulletin Connected Partners Collaborations & Contributions Training Highlights
FEBRUARY OPEN HUB
Families were invited to the CVA HUB to participate in Open HUB during February break. Approximately 25 people attended and were able to connect with their site coordinator and discuss any other needs they may have. Families received food, hygiene and clothing items at the event.. Community partners from YWCA, RCIL and ICAN (Independent Consumer Advocacy Network), Bassett Healthcare, Herkimer ARC and Blue Cross Blue Shield were also present to talk with families about any programs and resources they could be connected to.
Initiative Wide Highlights Staff
Adults in the community, that currently do not have children in the district, were also invited and attended this event. Including all our community members to connect them with resources has been an ongoing goal of Connected Central Valley.
Brittany Amore from Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) visited Barringer Elementary School with her therapy dog, Xena. Xena was able to visit classrooms and the HUB, where students had the opportunity to gently pet her while learning about the role and importance of a therapy dog. The students were very engaged and truly enjoyed the experience of interacting with Xena.
Deb from First Source visited Connected Barringer Road to teach students about wants vs. needs and money management. Students explored how understanding these concepts is essential for responsible financial decision-making and setting short- and long-term goals. At Connected Jarvis Middle School, Deb launched her financial literacy series, introducing students to credit unions and further exploring money management and distinguishing wants from needs. At Connected CVA, she continued the series, focusing on building good credit and helping students develop skills that will support their financial future. Marina with CCE Child Care Council visited Jarvis for her monthly Mindful Monday series with Mrs. Opel’s 7th grade and the 5th grade seminar classes. This month, she talked about kindness and how we can be kind to others and ourselves. Students also learned about how their kindness can influence others on a daily and lifetime basis. Students then completed hearts with kind messages to display at the school.
Cara Rosebeck, Program Manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, presented MADD’s underage substance use prevention programs to Jarvis students, empowering 5th graders to say no to alcohol and other substances. Students learned important life skills, including decision-making, resistance strategies, and communication skills.
The Girl Scouts visited Connected Jarvis Middle School to teach students about outdoor and fire safety. Students learned how to enjoy the outdoors safely and the proper steps for starting a fire. To make the lesson hands-on and fun, students even used candy to build a “fire” safely, reinforcing safety skills in a memorable way.
AMEND is a weekly group conducted by the YWCA staff Duwayne. He covers topics that assist in good morals and positive behavior to women.They also began a “story telling project” where students discuss a pivotal moment or experience in their life and how that moment contributed to who they are today.
Catholic Charities of Herkimer County’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Program (RHYP) visited a 5th grade seminar to learn about healthy communication and listening with respect. Teaching healthy communication and listening with respect focuses on building skills that promote understanding, trust, and positive relationships in everyday settings. Healthy communication involves expressing thoughts and information clearly, honestly, and compassionately while being mindful of tone, body language, and cultural differences. At the CVA HUB, RHYP interacted with students and played trivia with students during lunch to assist in teaching them about resources that are available to them.
HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES In February, the 4th graders at Barringer Road had a fun and engaging activity centered around the Super Bowl. Students made their own “Super Bowl Predictions”, discussing who they thought would win while enjoying pizza during the themed activity. This experience encouraged students to share their ideas, learn about the teams, and listen to the perspectives of their classmates, building both knowledge and collaboration skills. The Connected Site Coordinator hosted a HUB Huddle with first graders, featuring a Super Bowl–themed coloring contest. Students worked together on their designs and shared their creations with one another, promoting teamwork and creativity. In addition, students focused on self-care and positive self-talk, discussing kind things they can say about themselves and others. As part of the activity, students wrote positive messages on paper hearts and decorated them to give to themselves or someone they care about. Throughout the session, students were engaged, collaborative, and enthusiastic, making it a meaningful and fun learning experience.
This month in the Connected Jarvis HUB, students explored “What do we love about the HUB?”, sharing their thoughts on the HUB door—from enjoying a quiet space, to visiting with friends, to the snacks! Students also participated in kindness clips, writing kind words on clothespins to share with their peers. Before Winter Break, students had a blast during the Monthly HUB Meet Up, decorating cookies with Deb and Rachel from First Source and making keychains, a popular request. The Jarvis HUB continues to be a space full of helpful and engaged students, who even assisted with the monthly yogurt delivery and restocking the HUB fridge, demonstrating teamwork and responsibility.
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, students visited the HUB to create cards for family and friends. This activity gave students a chance to socialize, collaborate, and express their creativity while sharing kindness with others. At Connected CVA, the HUB is open daily for breakfast and lunch, providing a comfortable and supportive space for students to enjoy their meals. Beyond being a quiet place, the HUB fosters a sense of belonging and connection, allowing students to form friendships and strengthen relationships within the school community. The HUB is also available during 1st and 4th period study halls, giving students from multiple classes a space to complete schoolwork independently or collaboratively. Those who finish their assignments often spend time playing games and connecting with peers, making the HUB a hub of both learning and community.
ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCETrends Trends
The Connected Site Coordinators at Barringer and Fisher Elementary Schools have been actively supporting students with attendance concerns. Through ongoing family outreach, collaboration with school staff, and recognition of positive attendance habits, students demonstrating improvement or perfect attendance are celebrated, encouraging consistent school engagement. These efforts help strengthen family-school connections and support students in maintaining regular attendance and participation in learning. At Connected CVA, the Site Coordinator monitors attendance and grades for students on the attendance list. Families are contacted if attendance or grades begin to slip, and students receive check-ins as well. Thanks to these efforts and the school’s updated policies, attendance has increased significantly. At Connected Jarvis, the Site Coordinator works with students to set monthly attendance goals. Students regularly check in with the HUB and take pride in their accomplishments, building motivation and a sense of responsibility for consistent attendance.
Connected PARTNERS PARTNERS
Connected
At Connected Central Valley, a number of students are currently participating in In-School Counseling through the Neighborhood Center. The program serves 18 Connected students at Jarvis, 4 students at CVA, and 8 students at Barringer, providing targeted support for those who need assistance with social, emotional, or academic challenges. The Connected Fisher Site Coordinator, Paola, continues to work closely with Family School Navigator, Erica. Families receive support from both programs and are connected to resources.
The Liberty Partnerships Program was established in 1988 under Section 612 Subdivision 6 of Education Law to address the significant dropout rate and promote positive outcomes of post-graduation among New York State Youth. One of 52 collegiate programs, SUNY Polytechnic Institute was awarded the Liberty Partnership Program Grant in Fall of 2022. The SUNY Poly Liberty Partnership Program team strives to provide academic support, career and employment preparation as well as social emotional skill building for 5th - 12th grade students within six Herkimer County school districts: Central Valley, Dolgeville, Frankfort-Schuyler, Herkimer, Little Falls, and Mount Markham. The SUNY Polytechnic Institute Liberty Partnerships Program currently serves over 200 students providing a series of engaging and supportive programs to aid in individual goal achievement and positive outcomes. Supports and Services include: Individual Academic Support Meetings Social Emotional Assessments Personalized Learning Plans Career Exploration Employment Preparation School-based academic support programs Summer Programs
Trends
Trends
This month, the LINK trends continued to focus on mental health and community connections. Families have been connected to resources through the Neighborhood Center, receiving referrals for in-clinic or in-school counseling based on individual needs and accessibility. To accommodate busy schedules, families are also connected with walk-in hours and multiple locations. Additional supportive services, such as Family Peer Advocacy through the Neighborhood Center, provide an added layer of guidance and encouragement. Families can also access Care Management through the Central New York Health Home Network or FACT (Family Advocate Connection Team), offering long-term support and connections to a wider range of services to help meet their needs more effectively. This month, Connected Site Coordinators at each building submitted referrals for these services, ensuring families have access to the resources and support they need. Connec ted Centra l Valley would like to thank everyo ne that helps! We can not do it withou t you!
COLLABORATIONS COLLABORATIONS & & Contributions Contributions Loaves and Fishes Warming Center and Clothing Closet Central Valley faculty generously donated hygiene and clothing items to the Loaves and Fishes Warming Center and Clothing Closet to support families who utilize their services. These items will be included in blessing bags, providing essential supplies to individuals in need. In addition, Connected Central Valley families are referred to the clothing closet as needed, helping meet clothing and household needs identified during outreach and ensuring families have access to the resources they require.
Herkimer County has teamed up with Connected Community Schools as part of the Herkimer County System of Care Initiative in order to provide Mental Health support and connections to Herkimer County Youth. The Youth Ambassador Coordinator will work with school administration, school staff and Connected Community Schools staff to identify students who could benefit from serving as an ambassador within their school district and community. The Youth Ambassador Coordinator will organize and facilitate Youth Ambassador Councils across Herkimer County School districts and within the community. Monthly meetings will be held in order to organize and implement activities, events and programming related to Mental Health support and awareness. Youth Ambassadors may also have opportunities to coordinate with Youth Ambassador Councils across Herkimer County including the Annual Youth Summit. Mother Daughter Mother Daughter Circle Circle
On February 9 and 23, families participated in Mother Daughter Circle, a program designed to provide a safe and supportive space for mothers and daughters to strengthen their relationship skills. During the first session, participants explored beliefs and behaviors within their relationship and identified what is working well and what could improve. The second session focused on healthy communication, where families observed role-playing scenarios of common conflicts and practiced skills such as reflective listening, “I” statements, and affirmations to foster more positive, open communication.
H YOAUST SADOR
B M A COUNCIL
This month, outreach efforts for the Youth Ambassador Council have focused on connecting with students across our school districts, introducing them to the council’s mission and activities, and gauging interest by highlighting leadership opportunities, events, and initiatives that align with their passions and involvement. We are excited to share that eight students have already expressed interest in joining the council. Stay tuned for updates as we prepare to launch our first group meetings!
The Youth Ambassador Coordinator met with students after school to celebrate National Tell a Fairy Tale Day. Students collaborated to create an original fairy tale using a “story in a box,” which contained phrases, pictures, and prompts to inspire the story as it unfolded. The activity was filled with laughter, creativity, and imaginative thinking, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind fairy tale! In addition, students explored their thoughts and habits around social media, screen time, and gaming during sessions in both Connected Dolgeville and Herkimer in February. These discussions gave students a chance to reflect on their daily routines and share strategies for balance and healthy technology use.
UPCOMING UPCOMINGEvents Events
HERKIMER LIBRARY LEARNING SERIES FOR FAMILIES The Youth Ambassador Coordinator joined the Herkimer Connected Team for the Herkimer Library Learning Series, hosted by the Basloe Library, with this session focusing on literacy. This community event featured Cornell Cooperative Extension leading engaging activities, while representatives from Healthy Families, Herkimer County Health Net, Help Me Grow, and Family School Navigation connected with families and provided valuable resources throughout the event.
Mount Markham High School Wellness Fair
March 27th
Herkimer After-School Programming Thursdays from 2:30-3:30 pm
Mother Daughter Circle will begin on Monday, February 9th at the Central Valley Academy Connected HUB and continue for eight Mondays from 4:30–5:30 p.m. We welcome families of Connected Central Valley, Dolgeville, Herkimer, and Mount Markham families to join us. This group offers a welcoming space for mothers and daughters to connect, share, and grow together through meaningful conversations and activities. Please click this link or reach out to Katie to sign up.
MEET KATIE BAKER
Youth Ambassador Coordinator, Katie spends time in each of the Herkimer County Connected Districts. Her schedule is as follows:
Monday - Mount Markham Katie can be reached at 315-360-4978 Tuesday - Herkimer or katieb@connectedcs.org. Wednesday - Central Valley Thursday - Herkimer Herkimer County System of Care is funded by Friday - Dolgeville
UPCOMING UPCOMINGEvents Events
INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights Highlights Advocating for Students and Families in Albany
On Feb. 10, Nora Bajhor, Director of Impact, and Daniel Turk, Project Manager of Quality Assurance, traveled to Albany to meet with state legislators to advocate for funding for Community Schools that support students, families, and communities across New York State. The day began with a powerful video highlighting the realities of childhood poverty across New York, which set the tone for the conversations ahead. The video was both moving and impactful, and several colleagues from the Connected initiative were featured in the presentation. After the video Nora presented as a panelist representing Connected. Throughout the day, the group met with legislators to discuss the importance of sustained support for programs that address the barriers many students and families face. One highlight of the day was an impromptu meeting with a local Assembly representative, who graciously took time to speak with Dan’s group. The conversation was encouraging as he has three Connected school districts in his legislative district, there is hope that he will support the proposed legislation should it move forward to a full Assembly vote. The day provided an important opportunity to highlight the impact of Community Schools and ensure that the voices of students, families and communities are part of the conversation shaping policies across New York.
Click here to watch the 1 in 5: Confronting Childhood Poverty in New York Video.
TRAINING TRAININGHighlights Highlights Youth Mental Health First Aid Training – Free & Open to All!
Did you know that Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Training is available at no cost? This valuable program is designed to help faculty, staff, and community members recognize the signs of mental health challenges in young people, provide support, and connect them with appropriate resources. By participating, you’ll gain practical skills to respond confidently to students in crisis, foster a supportive environment, and make a real difference in the lives of youth in our community. Who can attend: All faculty, staff, and community members Cost: FREE Registration: Registration link Empower yourself with the knowledge to support youth mental health—because every student deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Connected Central Connected Central Valley Valley Team Team How can I help you today and make your tomorrow better?
HOW CAN I HELP YOU TODAY MAKE YOUR TOMORROW BETTE
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.
Paola Coe
Indya Countryman
YOUR BARRINGER ROAD & FISHER ELEMENTARY SITE COORDINATOR
YOUR CENTRAL VALLEY ACADEMY SITE COORDINATOR
315-985-0524
315-269-3343
paolac@connectedcs.org
indyac@connectedcs.org
Katie Rockwell
Donna Senko
YOUR CONNECTED COMMUNITY SCHOOLS DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR
YOUR CENTRAL VALLEY PROJECT MANAGER
315-717-9748
315-985-0908
katier@connectedcs.org
donnas@connectedcs.org
CENTRAL HUB TEAM ALEXIS TOWNE
RAIN RIDGNER
KALI FOUNTAIN
DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF IMPACT
NORA BAJOHR
KAELYNN BARBER
DELIVERY TEAM
DUSTIN TROTZ