JUNE 2026
TABLE OF CONTE
Connected District Bul
Connected Partner
Collaborations & Contributions
Training Highlights
Initiative Wide Highlights
Staff
Connected Fisher Elementary School, students participated in Emotions Run programming with Marina. Using 12 emotion face mats, students ran to the face that matched the emotion or scenario called out This allowed students to self express emotions while enjoying outdoor time
Marina visited Connected Jarvis Middle School this month to conclude her Social Emotional Learning (SEL) series This month they talked about self care and ways we can participate in self care Students talked together about different ways they use self care by completing Self Care Scavenger Hunt with their peers
y from Cornell Cooperative of Herkimer County worked re-K students at Connected lementary School and led a hands-on lesson on making emade ice cream. Students rned about dairy products.
Students then followed directions and added ingredients The students took turns shaking their bags until the ice cream was ready. On a very hot day, the activity was a perfect treat, and the children were excited to enjoy the ice cream they made themselves while learning about food science and following directions.
Wendy also visited Connected Jarvis Middle School and taught students about different types of milk. Students were able to try the different kinds and describe them and rate them. Students then followed directions on a recipe to make strawberry and banana smoothies using two different types of milk.
Herkimer County Prevention Council came to Connected Jarvis Middle School to talk about mental health and substance abuse and prevention. Students were able to learn what mental health it is and how to identify it as well as resources if needed Students also learned about substance use and abuse and how that affects their brain and future Students learned how to talk about it with others and be a friend.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County’s Therapy dogs visited Connected Jarvis Middle School this month Students learned about their jobs, training and how they help others. The dogs visited several classes during his visit and their handlers answered many questions the students had
National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) visited Jarvis to talk about mental health. Students worked together to match feelings with descriptions and learned about coping skills. Students then made breathing sticks that can be used to help them remain calm
At Connected Central Valley Academy (CVA), the dogs visited staff and kids both in the hallway and HUB. The faculty and students were able to pet and play with the dogs as well as ask the handler questions. This was a very helpful resource on the day CVA chose to remember a beloved student.
The Runaway talk about the importance of spending time away from screens and technology. Students learned both the physical and emotional benefits of spending time outside versus being tied to electronics The students created summer bucket lists with ideas of how to get outside and be active over the summer.
Rachel and Deb from First Source Federal Credit Union finished their financial series at Connected Jarvis Middle School and CVA this month.
Students participated in a phishing email activity, where students analyzed a sample email to determine whether it was real or a scam, followed by a conversation about common red flags. Students also learned about online safety and social media. In an interactive activity, students played the role of hackers, using a sample social media profile to see how easily personal information can be used to guess passwords and security questions.
In the CVA HUB, Deb did a wrap up with the students of the things they reviewed over the year along with any questions they had
Connected Central Valle
Remington Park Apartments this month Families in this area were able to meet with Connected Site Coordinators and received items such as food and hygiene items. Through conversations with the families, additional needs were identified and families were connected to community resources Agencies such as Cornell Cooperative Extension, LifePlan, Family School Navigation, Herkimer Area Resource Center, Bassett Healthcare and Reality Check also provided information and engagement opportunities to families
HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES
The Connected Site Coordinator facilitated several endof-year HUB Huddles designed to celebrate students’ accomplishments, encourage reflection, and strengthen social connections.
The third-grade students participated in a special endof-year picnic celebration. Students were brought outside to enjoy the nice weather and were provided with a themed summer drink made with Hawaiian Punch and gummy sharks, along with fun twirly straws and a side of popcorn.
The fourth-grade students focused on teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Students participated in a hula hoop challenge where they worked together to move a hula hoop from one person to the next while holding hands and using only their bodies, arms, and legs. The activity promoted cooperation, patience, and positive peer interactions. Students also reflected on their favorite HUB memory to make a colorful collaborative chain. Students also enjoyed fun outdoor games to finish up the school year
First grade students at Connected Fisher Elementary School enjoyed an outside picnic to enjoy the nice weather. Students were provided with a themed summer drink consisting of Hawaiian Punch with gummy sharks, along with fun twirly straws and a side of popcorn. Students also enjoyed a fun team-building game outside called the “Watermelon Crack Game.” Each student had the opportunity to participate by having a “watermelon” cracked over their head, resulting in a small splash of water. The students were highly engaged, demonstrated positive peer interactions, and enjoyed the activity, creating a memorable end-ofyear experience
This month, students celebrated the end of the school year while also recognizing Pride Month through meaningful activities in the HUB During lunch groups, students created a Pride Chain featuring positive, encouraging messages and engaged in thoughtful conversations about what Pride Month means to them and the importance of creating an inclusive, supportive community
To wrap up the year, students participated in a special HUB "Sign Out," adding their handprints and signatures to a commemorative display while sharing their favorite HUB memories and what they are looking forward to this summer.
Throughout the year, students continued to enjoy breakfast and lunch in the HUB, where the welcoming environment fostered new friendships, meaningful conversations, and a strong sense of belonging It has been rewarding to watch these connections grow and support students throughout the school year
In June, the Connected Central Valley Academy (CVA) HUB had an end of the year party where the students were able to have snacks and celebrate together. Seniors who spent time in the HUB were able to write their names on a duck. These are displayed in the HUB with past year ducks as an ongoing tradition The seniors also took pictures in their caps and gowns Students were able to take pictures together and play games and enjoy the remaining days of school in the HUB.
At CVA, the HUB is open each day for breakfast and lunch, the HUB offers students a comfortable place to enjoy their meals Beyond being a quiet space, it provides a supportive environment that promotes a sense of belonging and connection. Many students use this time to form friendships and strengthen relationships within the school community
The HUB is also open during 1st and 4th period study halls Students from multiple study halls can access the HUB to complete schoolwork on their own or with others, and those who are finished with assignments often spend time playing games and connecting with peers.
Connected Connected Connected
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:
Individual Academic Support Meetings
Social Emotional Assessments Personalized Learning Plans
SUNY Polytechnic Institute Liberty Partnerships Program Staff:
Caryn Schweinsberg – Project Director
Career Exploration
Employment Preparation
School-based academic support programs Summer Programs
Mrs. Caryn Schweinsberg is a graduate of SUNY Polytechnic Institute, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Behavioral Health. She is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at Keuka College. Caryn’s professional interests include school prevention initiatives, mental health support, and socialemotional learning to promote positive outcomes for children and adolescents. She currently oversees SUNY Poly Liberty Partnerships Program operations as well as LPP supports and services within Central Valley Central School District.
Contact: schweic@sunypoly.edu
Eva Fuess – Student & Family Advocate
Ms. Eva Fuess earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Behavioral Health from SUNY Polytechnic Institute and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at the University at Buffalo. Eva’s professional interests focus on student mental health and school-based prevention programming. She currently oversees Liberty Partnerships Program services and supports within Little Falls, Herkimer, and Dolgeville Central School Districts.
Contact: fuesse@sunypoly.edu
Sophie Valente – Student & Family Advocate
Ms. Sophie Valente graduated from The College of Saint Rose with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, with a concentration in Clinical Counseling. Her professional interests include student mental health and the impact of social media on biopsychosocial well-being and self-image. Sophie currently oversees Liberty Partnerships Program services and supports within Mount Markham and Frankfort-Schuyler Central School Districts.
Contact: valentesl@sunypoly.edu
Connected Connected Connected
The Liberty Partnerships Program Central Valley Graduates are as follows:
Kathryne Reynolds
Congratulations to 2026 LPP graduate Kathryne Reynolds. This year Kathryne presented at both Regional and States Skills USA earning 3rd and 5th place respectively. Kathryne has been attending BOCES for Visual Communication and Digital Arts and graduated from the program with an adobe certified graphic design certification. Post graduation Kathryne plans to enter the workforce with a focused interest in graphic design. We wish Kathryne continued success as she begins her career and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes in the future.
Trissa Maine
Congratulations to 2026 LPP graduate Trissa Maine. Trissa is a 2024 alumni of NYSED annual LPP Empire Youth Summit, an annual youth leadership conference. This year Trissa completed her attendance at BOCES Early Childhood Education Program and plans to enter the workforce upon graduation to continue her interest in early childhood focused careers. We wish Trissa the very best as she begins this exciting new chapter and look forward to all she will achieve.
Congratulations to 2026 LPP graduate Cecilia Tubia. Cecilia is a 2025 alumni of NYSED annual LPP Empire Youth Summit, an annual youth leadership conference. This year Cecilia entered the workforce and began building both her skills and education in the medical field in preparation to attend SUNY Poly's nursing program in Fall of 2026. We wish Cecilia every success as she continues her education and look forward to celebrating her future accomplishments in nursing.
Cecilia Tubia
Connected Connected Connected
PARTNERS PARTNERS PARTNERS
The Neighborhood Center Satellite Clinic therapist continues to provide counseling services to students in three district buildings. At Connected Central Valley Academy (CVA), referrals are coordinated through the Connected Site Coordinator and School Social Worker, while referrals at Connected Barringer Road Elementary and Connected Jarvis Middle School are managed directly by each building's School Social Worker.
During the month, the In-School Counselor provided services to 15 students at Connected Jarvis Middle School, 8 students at Connected Barringer Road Elementary, and 4 students at Connected Central Valley Academy, ensuring students had access to the support and resources they needed to successfully finish the school year
Erica Johnson, Family School Navigator, partnered with Connected Central Valley to support families with Pre-K registration. Erica attended the Connected Mobile HUB at Remington Park, where she met with families, answered questions, and assisted with the registration process.
Throughout the summer, Erica will continue to attend community events, providing families with registration support and helping ensure children are prepared for a successful start to the school year.
Mental Health continues to be a LINK referral ts are referred to the Neighborhood Center Satellite C ter in clinic counseling options. Another resource for q y gement Services which assists families long term with care and support to referrals for services.
Dental Assistance has been another need seen by our families through conversations and at Mobile HUB events Due to many local dentists not accepting popular insurances, families often have to travel to other dentists out of the area Because transportation is also a barrier for our families, medicaid transport services are offered for these appointments. The team continues to canvas the area for additional dental resources for families.
ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCETTrends rendsTrends
Attendanceoutreachandfamilysupportwillcontinuethroughoutthesummermonthsbyoursitecoordinators. Continuedoutreachensuressupporttofamiliesandstudentsthatstrugglewithattendanceandalsohelps identifyanyotherbarriers.
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Throughoutthisschoolyear,consistentoutreachtoidentifiedfamiliesandattendanceincentives,alongwiththe district'sattendancepolicies,showedadecreaseinabsenteeismformanyofourfamilies.
COLLABORATIONS & COLLABORATIONS & COLLABORATIONS &
Village of Mohawk Touch a Truck Event
ConnectedCentralValleywaspartoftheVillageofMohawkTouchaTruckEvent.Familieswereableto completeaTouchaTruckBingogameandreturntoclaimaprize
Connected Central Valley is working with OHM BOCES on the Summer Food handout. Connected will do outreach to families that identify transportation as a barrier and help ensure food is delivered to the families who need it.
Oneida Herkimer Madison BOCES
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 DaughterCircle Circle
The final Mother-Daughter Circle session this month provided an opportunity to reflect on the relationships that had grown throughout the program. Participants celebrated the memories they created together, shared what they learned about one another, and recognized the importance of making time for meaningful conversations. The session focused on celebrating each family's unique journey while encouraging participants to continue practicing the communication, trust, and connection they had built beyond the
As the school year came to a close, drop-in programming continued to provide ts with meaningful opportunities to connect, reflect, and celebrate the start of mer Students created Summer Vision Boards, encouraging them to think about eir goals, adventures, and aspirations for the months ahead Suggestion Boards e students the opportunity to share ideas and provide feedback for future HUB mming, ensuring their voices continue to shape upcoming activities throughout Herkimer, Central Valley, Mount Markham and Dolgeville School Districts. StudentsalsoenjoyedengaginginMinutetoWinItchallengesthatencouraged teamwork,problem-solving,andplentyoflaughter.LyricQuizzessparkedfriendly competitionandconversationasstudentstestedtheirknowledgeofpopularsongs andconnectedoversharedmusicalinterests.
Theseend-of-yeardrop-inactivitiesprovidedafunandwelcomingenvironment wherestudentscouldrelaxaftercompletingfinalprojectsandexams,strengthen peerrelationships,andfinishtheschoolyearonapositivenotewhilelooking forwardtotheopportunitiesthatsummerbrings.
Throughout June, students at Connected Jarvis met weekly during their lunch periods to brainstorm volunteer opportunities and plan an engaging activity for their peers at the Connected Carnival. As members of the Youth Ambassador Council, they demonstrated creativity, leadership, and teamwork while preparing to make a positive impact in their community. This summer, the group looks forward to reconnecting during the free lunch program at Franco's in Ilion, where they will continue building relationships with their peers through interactive activities and community engagement.
Youth Ambassador Coordinator Katie attended the Mott Marathon and Anna’s Sunflower Warriors Walkathon at Central Valley Academy on June 6th & 7th. During the events, Katie engaged participants with a community outreach table, providing students, families, and community members with information about available programs and support. The Youth Ambassador Coordinator shared resources on the Youth Ambassador Council, Circles Groups, mental health services, and HUB drop-in programming while engaging attendees in conversations about opportunities for involvement and support throughout the year.
The events provided a valuable opportunity to increase awareness of student-centered programming, strengthen connections with families, and highlight the wide range of resources available to promote student well-being, leadership, belonging, and positive engagement both in and outside of school.
Summer Drop-In Programming provides youth with a welcoming and engaging space to stay connected throughout summer vacation. Taking place in the Dolgeville, Mount Markham, Herkimer, and Central Valley school districts, these programs offer creative activities, games, challenges, and opportunities for youth to share their ideas and perspectives. These informal drop-in opportunities give young people a place to stay engaged, be heard, and stay creative all summer long!
YouthAmbassadorCoordinator,KatiespendstimeineachoftheHerkimerCounty
ConnectedDistricts.Herscheduleisasfollows:
Monday - Mount Markham
Tuesday - Herkimer
Wednesday - Central Valley Academy
Thursday - Dolgeville
Friday
TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING
Strengthening Nonprofits Through Expert-Led Training
Divisional Director Katie Rockwell is participating in an 8-month training series designed to provide expert-led instruction, practical tools, and hands-on guidance for leaders in the nonprofit field. Each month focuses on a different operational area essential to building and sustaining a successful nonprofit organization, with sessions led by subject matter experts offering real-world strategies and resources. In June, Lara Pimentel, Owner of OSA Philanthropy, presented on fundraising strategies, including donor cultivation and stewardship. Participants gained actionable tools and insights to strengthen fundraising efforts and support long-term organizational sustainability.
Supporting Students and Strengthening Skills All Summer Long
Connected Staff continue their work throughout the summer months by supporting families, helping facilitate summer programming and community events, and participating in professional learning opportunities. Alongside direct service and event support, staff also take part in the annual Summer Academy, a dedicated time for training, collaboration, and skill-building. This ongoing professional development helps ensure staff are prepared to continue providing strong, consistent support to students and families year-round.
Celebrating a Great Year, Together
Connected staff came together for a fun and festive End-of-Year Celebration to wrap up a successful year of supporting students and families across the region. The gathering was filled with laughter, conversation, and time to relax and connect outside of daily program work. Staff took the opportunity to celebrate accomplishments from the 2025–2026 school year, reflect on the impact of their efforts, and enjoy time together as a team. The celebration was a positive way to close out the year and recognize the dedication, teamwork, and heart that each staff member brings to Connected every day.
A Community United for Child Safety
The Ride for Missing Children – Mohawk Valley brought together riders, volunteers, students, families, and community partners for an unforgettable day of advocacy, awareness, and support. Throughout the Ride route, students from local schools enthusiastically welcomed riders with signs, cheers, and noisemakers, creating an incredible atmosphere of encouragement and community spirit. Stops at Jefferson Elementary and Seneca Street Elementary provided opportunities for riders and volunteers to connect with students, reinforce important safety lessons, and celebrate the shared mission of keeping children safe. Community partners, including Connected Community Schools and the Connected Cocoa, joined supporters along the route to cheer on participants as they traveled from Utica to New Hartford.
The day concluded with a closing ceremony celebrating the dedication of everyone involved and recognizing more than $82,000 raised to support child safety initiatives. During the ceremony, The Ride's Community Educator shared the impact of the program's safety education efforts, highlighting outreach to more than 3,000 students, educators, and families across over 20 schools in just the past few months. Ride Day served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support child safety, honor missing children, and create a safer future for all.
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.
S T U D E N T S L E A R N T H E
M I S S I O N B E H I N D T H E R I D E
As excitement built for The Ride for Missing Children, students at Watson Williams Elementary, Marcy Elementary, Seneca Street Elementary, Martin Luther King Elementary, and John F. Kennedy Middle School participated in engaging presentations focused on child safety and community awareness. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, students explored important topics including bike safety, online safety, and personal safety while learning about the mission and impact of The Ride for Missing Children. Each presentation helped students understand the important role their school community plays in supporting child safety, making safe choices, and encouraging the riders as they travel through the community on Ride Day.
Students at Gansevoort Elementary School and Stokes Elementary School strengthened their safety knowledge through engaging, interactive activities designed to build confidence and encourage smart decision-making. At Gansevoort, students explored bike safety, including the Bike ABCs, helmet safety, and safe practices for walking and riding near roadways. They also learned the 4 Rules of Personal Safety and discussed internet safety, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information, communicating with trusted adults, showing kindness online, and trusting their instincts when something feels wrong. Meanwhile, students at Stokes enjoyed a sunny lunchtime HUB Huddle featuring a lively game of Safety Jeopardy that reinforced personal and bike safety concepts through teamwork, discussion, and friendly competition. Together, these activities equipped students with valuable skills to help them stay safe both online and offline throughout the summer and beyond.
Seventh and eighth grade students at Vernon-VeronaSherrill Jr./Sr. High School participated in engaging safety presentations focused on bike safety, personal safety, and online safety. Students explored practical tools and strategies they can use to take an active role in their own safety while discussing topics such as trusted adults, personal boundaries, and situational awareness. Conversations about digital citizenship and digital footprints encouraged students to think critically about the lasting impact of their online actions and how to make safe, responsible choices in digital spaces.
Students at Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School welcomed Riders from The Ride for Missing Children as they arrived by bicycle before joining safety presentations focused on bike safety, personal safety, and online safety awareness. Throughout the presentations, students learned valuable skills for staying safe both in their communities and online while gaining a deeper understanding of the mission of The Ride. The visit concluded with a bicycle helmet raffle, providing students with additional resources to help them ride safely and confidently.
Connected Mount Markham Elementary School's Fun Day combined excitement with valuable safety education as students learned alongside Riders from The Ride for Missing Children. Through interactive activities, participants reviewed the 4 Rules of Personal Safety, identified trusted adults, and practiced speaking up when something doesn't feel right. Riders also demonstrated proper helmet fit, bicycle sizing, and pre-ride safety checks. Thanks to the generosity of the Optimist Club and community supporters, students wrapped up the event with raffles for bicycle helmets, toys, and other prizes, making the day both educational and memorable.
Students at Holland Patent Middle School participated in a Netsmartz internet safety presentation focused on building safe and responsible online habits. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, students explored the concept of digital citizenship, learned about the lasting impact of their digital footprints, and identified warning signs that may arise when communicating with others online. Students also
discussed the difference between being a bystander and an upstander, reinforcing the importance of speaking up, seeking help, and supporting others when they encounter unsafe or inappropriate situations online.
Connected Connected Central
Team Team
