JUNE 2026
DOLGEVILLE CONNECTED
NEWSLETTER TABLE OF CONTENTS
SCREEN TIME AWARENESS WITH MS. CASEY
Ms. Casey Winter, from Oneida County Cornell Cooperative Extension, Child Care Council, came to visit Connected Partners our Dolgeville Elementary School this month to chat about screen time and healthy online habits! Students Collaborations & Contributions explored their own technology use, and learned how online activity can affect their mental health and bodies. Training Highlights The students also brainstormed alternative activities they Initiative Wide Highlights might enjoy trying in place of some of their regular logged screen time! Some great ideas we saw included Staff running, roller skating, and playing with friends! It is so great to be connected! Connected District Bulletin
FIRST SOURCE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Ms. Rachel Zielenski was back to celebrate our amazing year of First Source Federal Credit Union programming. We completed an entire year of comprehensive financial education including topics from credit reports, taxes, investing and paychecks. This month the students put their knowledge to the test in a Jeopardy style game show evaluation of financial knowledge. The students did so well and have learned so much! DES HEALTH AND SAFETY EXPO This year for the Elementary Safety Expo, Dolgeville Connected Project Manager, Sarah Williams-Herringshaw, held a create your own anti-stress trail mix snack station. Students learned about how different foods and their nutrients can fuel their bodies for optimal performance! For example, walnuts, blueberries, pumpkin seeds, banana chips provide magnesium, zinc, potassium, polyphenols to support our brains, mood and bodies! It was a delicious lesson. VIOLET FESTIVAL PARADE
Hooray for bringing back the Violet Festival this year! Dolgeville Connected was present and representing in the parade on Saturday morning!
YWCA COUNCIL Mr. Kevin Morales, Community Educator from the YWCA - Mohawk Valley, came to meet with the The Council boys group this month at Dolgeville. The Council is an inclusive, strengths base group that builds leadership and respect amongst our young men. The group of elementary youth met with Kevin on Tuesday afternoons, and completed the ten lesson series on character education. The guys celebrated completing their programming this year with a pizza party and certificates to honor their hardwork!
DOLGEVILLE CONNECTED LAUNDRY ASSISTANCE This month, Project Manager Sarah Williams-Herringshaw scheduled and provided laundry assistance to some families in our district at our local Dolgeville Laundromat! It’s great to be Connected!
HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES DOLGEVILLE CONNECTED
Chess is taking off at our Dolgeville Connected HUB!
HUB HUDDLES ❤️ DOLGEVILLE CONNECTED
You belong here! We are CONNECTED It has been a great year at our Dolgeville Connected School!
UPCOMING Events July 23rd-Dolgeville Connected Bike Rodeo 12-2 July 30th-Herkimer County Connected Carnival at Herkimer ARC Park Dolgeville Connected Cornell Summer Programming at Salisbury Park Program July 17: 9:30-10:30: Kindness with Marina - friends bingo, coloring sheets, bracelets 10:30-11:30: Intro to Screen Time with Casey - poster making (screen free activities to try) July 24: 9:30-10:30: Emotions Run with Marina - mats with facial expressions to find around the park 10:30-11:30: Internet Safety with Casey - story time & interaction July 31: 9:30-10:30: Communication with Marina - team building &/or DIY obstacle course 10:30-11:30: Online Conflicts with Casey - role play & scenario discussion August 7: (Casey only*) 9:30-10:30: Intro to AI - story time, discussion, real or AI guessing game 10:30-11:30 - Board Games (screen free activity)
Connect ed Dolgevi lle wou ld like to than k every one that he lps! We cannot do it wit hout you!
COLLABORATIONS & & Contributions Contributions
LINKTrends Trends This month, Dolgeville Connected has been busy with mental health support referrals, as well as a lot of attention and connection to developmental evaluations and diagnostic testing. We also continue to provide food support, clothing support, and financial support as well as other resources to our local families. These connections are supplemented by not only our direct Connected resources, but our connections with local agencies such as MVCAA and other grants and funding. Helping families navigate the referral forms and support to these connections is a huge resource to our community. We also were able to support some local families at our Village Laundromat this month, providing financial support, laundry assistance and hygiene resources.
Connected PARTNERS Madison Bennett Marriage and Family Therapist 628 Mary Street Utica NY 13501 315-272-2748
Our mission is to unite families, schools, and community resources to prepare children to reach their full potential in school and life. We assist children ages 0-12 and their families by identifying and addressing any barriers to learning.
Connected PARTNERS Joanne Zilkowski Family School Navigator Phone:315-429-3155 x 1801 Text: 315-880-0553
Neighborhood Center provides on site mental health support. There are currently 42 students referred to the satellite clinic.
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, FrankfortSchuyler, 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 Career Exploration Employment Preparation School-based academic support programs Summer Programs SUNY Polytechnic Institute Liberty Partnerships Program Staff: Caryn Schweinsberg – Project Director 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 social-emotional 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 PARTNERS 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. Cecilia Tubia 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.
WHO ARE WE AND WHAT DO WE DO? 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 DaughterCircle Mother Daughter Circle Daughter 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 program.
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMMING
As the school year came to a close, drop-in programming continued to provide students with meaningful opportunities to connect, reflect, and celebrate the start of summer. Students created Summer Vision Boards, encouraging them to think about their goals, adventures, and aspirations for the months ahead. Suggestion Boards gave students the opportunity to share ideas and provide feedback for future HUB programming, ensuring their voices continue to shape upcoming activities throughout Herkimer, Central Valley, Mount Markham and Dolgeville School Districts.
Students also enjoyed engaging in Minute to Win It challenges that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and plenty of laughter. Lyric Quizzes sparked friendly competition and conversation as students tested their knowledge of popular songs and connected over shared musical interests. These end-of-year drop-in activities provided a fun and welcoming environment where students could relax after completing final projects and exams, strengthen peer relationships, and finish the school year on a positive note while looking forward to the opportunities that summer brings.
H T U O Y ASSADOR
B M A COUNCIL
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.
MOTT MARATHON AND ANNA’S SUNFLOWER WARRIORS WALKATHON 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.
UPCOMINGEvents Events IT’S A YAC DROP IN AT FRANCO’S 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!
UPCOMING MOTHER DAUGHTER CIRCLE A new Mother Daughter Circle cohort series will start in September. 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 Tuesday - Herkimer Wednesday - Central Valley Academy Thursday - Dolgeville Friday - Jarvis Middle School at Central Valley
Katie can be reached at 315-360-4978 or katieb@connectedcs.org.
Herkimer County System of Care is funded by
TRAININGHighlights Highlights 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.
INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDEHighlights Highlights 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.
Click here to see the yearbook!
INITIATIVE INITIATIVE WIDE WIDE
Highlights
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.
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 Dolgeville Team Connected Dolgeville Team
Sarah Williams-Herringshaw
Katie Rockwell
Dolgeville Project Manager
Divisional Director of Connected Community Schools
Dolgeville Elementary 8-10am Dolgeville Highschool 112:30pm
(315) 717-9748
315-985-0288
katier@connectedcs.org
sarahw@connectedcs.org
CENTRAL HUB TEAM ALEXIS TOWNE
RAIN RIDGNER
KALI FOUNTAIN
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONNECTED INITIATIVES
NORA BAJOHR
KAELYNN BARBER
DELIVERY TEAM
DUSTIN TROTZ