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T A B L E O F C O N T E N T

Connected District Bulletin

Connected Partners

Collaborations & Contributions

Training Highlights

Initiative Wide Highlights

Staff

POPPING POPPING BACK TO SCHOOL BACK TO SCHOOL

Connected Project Manager Carlee partnered with the Middle/High School Admin to bring the students a fun treat on the Monday after Spring Break. They handed out popcorn during the lunch mods to students. We also encouraged students to write down a spring goal they have on a paper popcorn kernel to be displayed Many students participated and had some great personal, academic, professional, or sports goals to work on.

Your Future Your Future

Faith from the Mohawk Valley Astronomical Society came into the HUB to talk with the students about the planets and the solar system Faith brought in multiple visual aids, magazines, and a telescope for students to use to discuss celestial objects

Sarah Casscles from SUNY Morrisville in Norwich came to the HUB to talk with students about going to college and the career choices that come with it. Susan provided notepads, informational pamphlets, bracelets, and pens for the students to take with them as they talked. The students were able to ask about what college is like and think about various careers that they might want to pursue in the future.

Sip Smart with Snap-Ed Sip Smart with Snap-Ed

Whitney Kmetz from SNAP-ED handed dixie cups to all students who wanted to try our infused water of the month, Blueberry - Lemon! Throughout the lunch periods, over 220 students came to get a cup of water. Some students went back for a second cup, and some to fill up a water bottle/bigger cup. Throughout the school day, several students came into the HUB asking for more of the water and to possibly take some of the lemon slices and blueberries home with them.

Multiple cups and water bottles were filled with water and fruit pieces until everything was gone. The more we can continue to provide different variations and choices for healthier drink options, hopefully we are helping to create healthier habits amongst the students.

Blueberry-Lemon was April's delicious Water Fusion flavor, and it was a massive hit! Students and staff alike loved it, with many asking for second servings. Everyone continues to look forward to and enjoy Water Fusion Fridays.

Students recently participated in engaging activities led by Rose from Reality Check and Jess from PULSE that promoted teamwork, leadership, and awareness surrounding Take Down Tobacco Day. During lunch periods, students visited an informational table featuring water bottles, stickers, buttons, and other giveaways while learning about the importance of making healthy choices. Student volunteers also assisted with operating a button-making station and helping peers participate in interactive games. In addition, students took part in a fun teamwork challenge where small groups worked together

Goodie bags containing a Connected information flyer, school supplies, juice boxes and fruit snacks, were provided by Project Manager Carlee for new families attending the Pre-K & Kindergarten Registration Event.

to maneuver a tarp “wheel” across a designated area. The activity encouraged communication, problem-solving, and perseverance as students collaborated through multiple attempts to successfully complete the challenge

Connected Site Coordinator Sydney and the Middle School Student Council teamed up to support Spirit Week with a series of engaging HUB activities. Students had the opportunity to express their creativity through rock painting, with the Student Council providing the rocks and SC Sydney supplying all painting materials; while in the HUB, students were able to design their rocks in any style they chose. The collaboration continued with the addition of large-format versions of popular games, which were made available for students to enjoy throughout the school day. Students participated individually or competed with peers, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere that encouraged both creativity and friendly competition.

The HUB recently opened to the community, offering residents the chance to "shop" for essentials such as food, hygiene products, clothing, and school supplies. Thanks to a generous donation from the Sherburne Rotary, families were also able to take home fresh produce and cake-making supplies for their Easter dinner

HUB HUDDLES HUB HUDDLES

CONNECTED SHERBURNE-EARLVILLE ELEMENTARY

ThePenPalProgramisstillgoingstrong!Our5th-gradestudents andtheMiddleSchoolWritingClubcontinuetoexchangeletters. Weareexcitedtoannounceplansforanend-of-yearlunchwhere allthestudentswillgettomeettheirpenpalsinperson.

ConnectedSiteCoordinatorSydneycreatedengagingHUBactivitiesthatblendedmusic,movement,andhands-on learning.Studentsparticipatedintwosongtriviaslideshows onefeaturingstudent-requestedmusicandanother highlightingfamiliarfilmscores competingforprizesinafun,interactivechallenge.Duetostudentinterest,asecond roundof“throwback”songtriviawasalsoplannedbyrequest Inaddition,Sydneyintroducedacreativehands-on activitywherestudentslearnedhowtomakepaperfortunetellersusingpre-cutpaperpieces.Tosupportrelaxation andwellness,shealsofacilitatedshortmovement-basedrestvideos,includingyogaandtaichi,givingstudentsthe opportunitytoexperiencealternativewaystoresetandrechargeduringtheschoolday

COLLABORATIONS & COLLABORATIONS & COLLABORATIONS &

CONNECTED CONNECTED CONNECTEDPartners Partners

Ellie Ryan has left LPP. We wish her the best of luck on her next adventure!

TTrends rendsTrends

Duetoschedulingconflicts,ourcookingclasswascanceledthis month.WewillresumeournormalscheduleonMay28th from3-4pm

Althoughwecouldn'tholdaclass,westillwanttosharean easyandhealthyrecipeforyouandyourfamilytotrythisApril.

*RecipeTip:Feelfreetocustomizethisrecipe!Forexample, oursmoothiebaseusesbananas,butyoucaneasilysubstitute orcombineotheringredients,suchasstrawberries, blueberries,cherries,orpeanutbutter,tomakeityourown!Or youcouldmakeitacombooftwoormorefruits,suchas strawberry-banana,blueberry-banana,orbanana-peanut butter.

Friday May 29th

TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING

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.

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.

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.

I N G C H I L D S A F E

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. P R O M O T

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.

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.

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.