Shaker Road staff members have dedicated the past 15 years to inspiring students to embrace the outdoors, instilling in them the importance of environmental awareness, and creating memories. Their annual event, “Walk, Bike, or Roll to School Day,” held on Wednesday, Oct. 4, stands as a testament to the school’s continued dedication to both environmental education and creating cherished experiences for its students.

“To accommodate students and families residing farther from the Shaker Road, a designated gathering point was established at the Price Chopper parking lot,” said Shaker Road Principal Bill Dollard “From there, students walked, biked, or scootered to school, ensuring  students could participate regardless of their proximity to the campus.”

After all of the children and families arrived, they gathered behind the school, exceeding more than a group of 100 participants.  

Once everyone was gathered, the staff and teachers took some time to teach their students about the environmental impact of having fewer buses on the road. They also talked about safe pathways to school and stressed the importance of these choices. 

“With this being a very popular tradition, the school hopes to continue this fun day as the years go on,” added Dollard. “We love seeing our students and families participate in this annual event.”

More information about the day can be found here  https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/ 

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The South Colonie Central School District held a day of celebration as it inducted the Colonie Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023 during its annual Homecoming festivities. This year’s induction held a special significance as it occurred amidst the backdrop of the school district’s 75-year legacy.

The celebration took place before the Homecoming game on Friday, Oct. 6 at Colonie Central High School. 

The following were inducted into this year’s class (Name, HOF Category, Graduation Year, Sport):

• • Kyle Brown – Athlete, (2000) Baseball
  • Brian O’Keefe – Athlete, (2011) Baseball
  • Barbara Leicht-Bowers – Teacher/Coach, Boys and Girls Bowling
  • Paul Mason – Athlete, (1972) Basketball, Football, Track
  • 1970-1971 Boys Basketball Team

“We were immensely proud of the achievements of our athletes and the spirit they had brought and continued to bring to our school community,” said South Colonie Athletic Director Bill Roemer. “This Hall of Fame induction is not just about acknowledging past accomplishments; it is about inspiring current and future generations to push boundaries and embrace competition and sportsmanship.”

The ceremony was a moving tribute, showcasing the extraordinary feats and dedication of the Class of 2023 inductees. Their accomplishments, both on and off the field,  serve as a testament to South Colonie’s sports legacy.

Link to Program: Read all about our 2023 inductees here.

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The celebration is scheduled to take place on Homecoming night tonight, Friday, Oct. 6 at Colonie Central High School. Starting at 5 p.m. the community will come together to honor the exceptional athletes, coaches, and contributors who have left an indelible mark on Colonie’s sports history. The following are set to be inducted into this year’s class (Name, HOF Category, Graduation Year, Sport):

• • Kyle Brown – Athlete, (2000) Baseball
  • Brian O’Keefe – Athlete, (2011) Baseball
  • Barbara Leicht-Bowers – Teacher/Coach, Boys and Girls Bowling
  • Paul Mason – Athlete, (1972) Basketball, Football, Track
  • 1970-1971 Boys Basketball Team

“We are immensely proud of the achievements of our athletes and the spirit they have brought and continue to bring to our school community,” said South Colonie Athletic Director Bill Roemer.  “This Hall of Fame induction is not just about acknowledging past accomplishments; it’s about inspiring current and future generations to push boundaries and embrace competition and sportsmanship.”

The ceremony promises to be a moving tribute, showcasing the extraordinary feats and dedication of the Class of 2023 inductees. Their accomplishments, both on and off the field, serve as a testament to South Colonie’s sports legacy.  

Link to Program: Read all about our 2023 inductees here. 

Adding to the festivities, the Homecoming game will kick off at 7 p.m., providing an exciting atmosphere for attendees to support Colonie as they face Ballston Spa.  A unique feature of this year’s Homecoming celebration is the invitation extended to alumni. Graduates of Colonie Central High School from various graduating years are welcomed to join in a special track walk alongside current students. This walk, arranged by Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior Executive Clubs in collaboration with iCARE and CHAMP, will foster a bridge between generations, symbolizing the legacy that bonds Colonie alumni.

“Inviting our alumni to walk the track is a representation of the deep connections that exist within the Colonie community,” said Colonie principal Thomas Kachadurian. “It’s a chance for alumni to relive cherished memories while offering inspiration to the next generation of students.”

As South Colonie celebrates its 75th-year legacy, the Colonie Athletic Hall of Fame induction and Homecoming Day serve as a cornerstone of pride and unity. The community’s commitment to fostering excellence in athletics continues to shine, reflecting a tradition that spans generations.

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Colonie Central High School welcomed former world class professional lacrosse player and coach, Rex Lyons to the classroom this week. Lyons shared his personal story with students highlighting the significant cultural and spiritual connection he has with lacrosse.

“We wanted to bring Rex Lyons to our school because of his unique story,” said associate principal Melissa Judge. “Not only does it align with our DEI initiatives but we believe that learning from someone as passionate and knowledgeable as him can inspire our students to appreciate the deeper significance of sports and how they can contribute to building a stronger, more united community.”

Lyons was on the original Iroquois Nationals lacrosse team (now Haudenosaunee Nationals). He  currently serves on the Haudenosaunee Nationals Board of Directors and is president of the Haudenosaunee Nationals Development Group, a non-profit organization he co-founded. 

When sharing with the students, he spoke about how lacrosse is an extension of who he is and his culture. ¨Lacrosse is our gift to the world…When you’re holding the stick you’re holding the past, present and future.¨ He went on to further explain that the community formed from the game and its generational importance which is a sentiment he hopes to pass down to his grandchildren.

In addition to his personal connection to the game, Lyon discussed how lacrosse teaches students the value of hard work, dedication and commitment. “The team environment makes kids grow together and work together,” he said.  “To give back and make a difference.” 

Lyons concluded his presentation while sharing his knowledge and love for the sport of lacrosse. Not only did he share the essence of the sport but also imparted a timeless message of unity, commitment and community-building leaving a lasting message for students.  “My hope is for all of us to look away from our phones once in a while and see we are in charge of making a difference not only for ourselves but for the larger community.” 

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Colonie Central High School senior, Ryan Staley, has achieved the impressive status of being named a Semifinalist in the 2024 National Merit® Scholarship Program. The announcement was made on September 14 by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, based in Evanston, IL. This prestigious recognition is part of a nationwide competition that offers nearly $28 million in scholarships in the upcoming year.

Out of a pool of over 1.3 million juniors from approximately 21,000 high schools who entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), Ryan Staley has distinguished himself as a Semifinalist. This achievement places him among an elite group, representing less than one percent of high school seniors in the United States. The number of Semifinalists in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

Senior Class Principal Brian Scalzo commended Staley, stating, “To be recognized as a National Merit Finalist is a huge honor for students because it represents years of hard work and dedication to learning. Congratulations to Ryan on this honor. We are proud of his accomplishment and commitment to his future.”

The next step for Staley and the CCHS faculty is to compile a comprehensive scholarship application. This application will include details about Staley’s academic record, school and community involvement, an essay, and supporting SAT or ACT scores, all of which demonstrate his exceptional performance in the preliminary examination.

The final roster of 2024 National Merit Scholarship winners will be unveiled nationwide beginning in April. For more information about this achievement, please visit https://www.nationalmerit.org.

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Students Pledge Support for United Way ALICE Project and Things of My Very Own

In an opening assembly that coincided with the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the South Colonie Central School District, students at Colonie Central High School came together to reaffirm their commitment to community service and social responsibility. During this special event, iCare, known for its dedication to making a positive impact, unveiled its chosen charities to support for the 2023-24 school year.

“When we got together to discuss this year’s charities it was a no-brainer that we chose United Way – ALICE and Things of My Very Own.  These two organizations both share the same core values that not only iCARE believes but also our district,” said Hannah Slater iCARE President.

The highlight of the assembly was the announcement of iCare’s charities of choice for the school year – the United For ALICE Project. CEO of United Way of Greater Capital Region Peter Gannon, who was present as a guest speaker, passionately shared insights into the ALICE initiative, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.

The United For ALICE Project is a nationwide effort that aims to provide a more accurate understanding of financial insecurity at various levels, including state, county, and municipality. It provides essential tools, a common language, and a framework to measure and comprehend the challenges faced by the ALICE population. ALICE individuals earn income above the federal poverty level but struggle to make ends meet, often unable to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare.

“iCare’s decision to support the United For ALICE Project this school year demonstrates their commitment to raising awareness about the often-hidden struggles of a significant segment of the Colonie community,” said principal Thomas Kachadurian.  “By championing this cause, the students aim to make a meaningful impact in alleviating financial insecurity among ALICE households.”

In addition to United Way’s CEO, the assembly welcomed Rayn Boncie, the CEO and Founder of “Things of My Very Own.” This non-profit organization specializes in providing crisis intervention services to children who have been impacted by extensive abuse and neglect. iCare will also be lending its support to this vital cause during the upcoming school year.

The students at Colonie Central High School took the opportunity during the assembly to learn more about how they can actively get involved in both initiatives. The message was clear: greatness is a choice, and these young minds have chosen to make a difference in their community by supporting those in need.

“iCares dedication to these two impactful causes reflects the spirit of compassion and social responsibility that runs deep within the student body at Colonie,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “As we begin this school year and we celebrate the 75th anniversary of their school district, our students’ commitment to creating positive change serves as a powerful testament to the enduring values that have defined the community for generations.”

The assembly concluded with an atmosphere of enthusiasm and unity as students.

Students interested in getting involved with iCare are invited to attend the iCare meetings held on Wednesday after school.

Community members interested in participating in or learning more about our 75th-anniversary celebration can visit our 75th anniversary page to learn more.

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With a rich history of educational excellence and community spirit, the South Colonie School District is now adding an inspiring chapter to its legacy by fostering a culture of kindness that resonates far beyond the classroom walls.

The campaign, conceived to honor the district’s 75 year legacy, is an invitation for students, teachers, parents, and community members to collectively engage in acts of kindness that make a positive impact. The campaign’s design is strategic – focusing on simple acts that collectively create a substantial positive change.

“More than celebrating the passage of time, this campaign is about celebrating the power of kindness that unites us all,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry.  “Our building level activities committee led by Sand Creek principal Michael Marohn developed this idea with the  aim to inspire not only our students but the entire community to embrace the beauty of giving back.”

South Colonie’s commitment to the campaign is echoed in its curriculum. 

“Community is one of our four pillars,” Perry added. “From having the opportunity for students to support the larger community through activities like our Toys for Tots campaign or iCare students at the high school raising money year round for a cause, community involvement and support is at the heart of what we do.”

Community members can also join the cause, pledging to participate and share their own acts of kindness using the campaign’s official hashtag,  #ProudlyColonie75Acts or by emailing photos to ProudlyColonie@scolonie.org.

As the school year unfolds, South Colonie is set to showcase the impact of these acts through regular updates, demonstrating the positive change that arises from collective kindness.

For more information on our 75th Anniversary and related activities please visit https://www.southcolonieschools.org/proudly-colonie-celebrating-75-years/.  For suggestions and ideas on daily act of kindness, please view our Kindness Calendar here. 

Embrace Kindness: 10 Sample Suggestions

• Ask someone how they are feeling today.
• Tell a friend why you are proud of them.
• Listen to someone and offer encouragement.
• Validate someone’s feelings.
• Use positive self- talk today.
• Apologize to someone.
• Offer to help a classmate or teacher.
• Forgive a mistake.
• Say thank you to a custodian.
• Leave a kind post-it in a library book.

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Colonie Central High School (CCHS) proudly continued its ‘SMART’ program for incoming freshmen. The ‘SMART’ program, an acronym for “Students Making A Responsible Tomorrow,” was designed to present a fresh and innovative approach to freshman orientation. This distinctive initiative not only equips students with essential skills vital for their academic pursuits but also emphasizes the significance of well-being, conflict resolution, and problem solving strategies.

Initiated during the week of August 21, the sessions offered a comprehensive blend of traditional orientation content and novel topics intended to facilitate a seamless transition into high school life. One highlight of the program is the emphasis on community service, underscoring the school’s commitment to fostering local engagement. All CCHS students are actively encouraged to contribute to the community, aligning with the Colonie’s overarching objective of every student earning the “Seal of Civic Readiness’  from the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

“We are pleased to bring this program back for the second year,” said CCHS freshman class principal David Pace. “The program provides opportunities for students to begin their high school years feeling confident and ready to learn.”

A culminating event of the ‘SMART’ program unfolded this week at The Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park on Friday, August 25 . A group of incoming freshmen participated in volunteer work exemplifying the spirit of community engagement.

South Colonie will welcome all students back to campus on Thursday, Sept. 7.

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In a dedicated effort to prioritize athlete safety and emergency preparedness, the South Colonie Central School District recently hosted an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) practice night. This event showcased the collaborative endeavors of local organizations, coaches and event staff, exemplifying their proficiency in managing athlete medical emergencies.

The event, which took place at Colonie Central High School on Tuesday, August 15 and included various informative sessions and drills designed to enhance the readiness of those responsible for the safety and well-being of student athletes.

Topics included:

• • Role of the Athletic Trainer at Colonie: Participants gained an understanding of the pivotal role played by the athletic trainer at Colonie in guaranteeing athlete safety and overall well-being.
  • Role of the Coach & Colonie Staff in Emergency Situations: Valuable insights were shared regarding the proactive measures taken by coaches and staff during critical emergencies, ensuring swift and effective responses.
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS): The collaborative efforts between the school and emergency medical services were highlighted, emphasizing the importance of a seamless partnership in managing emergencies.
  • Football Equipment Overview: Attendees delved into the world of football equipment, exploring different styles of shoulder pads and helmets that play a crucial role in athlete protection.
  • Tools Overview: An in-depth overview was provided about the standard and specialized tools available at Colonie and their specific locations.
  • Emergency Supplies: The emergency supplies stocked by Colonie and their designated locations were unveiled, underlining the importance of quick access during critical moments.
  • Removal of Football Equipment: Proper procedures for the swift and safe removal of football equipment were demonstrated, showcasing the dedication to athletes’ safety.
  • Crowd Control: The management of crowd control for ensuring quick response and safe field conditions was explained thoroughly.
  • Ambulance/Emergency Vehicle Access to Fields: Attendees received an overview of the accessibility of all Colonie High School fields for emergency vehicles.

“The goal of this session is to continue to ensure the ongoing safety of student athletes,” said Aimee Brunelle, athletic trainer for South Colonie.  “By equipping staff and emergency personnel with the necessary tools and knowledge, we aim to empower them to act swiftly and effectively in the event of an emergency.  I want to thank the efforts of local organizations and our coaching staff for participating as this showcases our community’s collective commitment to athlete safety.”

The Colonie fall sports season is set to begin this week with varsity football beginning Aug. 19.

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Isabella Franchi, a Colonie Central High School senior, has been named as one of the 10 scholastic award recipients for 2023 by the esteemed Capital District Sports Women of the Year (CDSWOY) organization. The organization honors the best and brightest female student athletes from high schools and colleges in the Capital Region This well-deserved recognition celebrates Franchi’s exceptional accomplishments in academics, athletics, and community service.

Throughout her high school journey, Franchi has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the sports fields. Academically, her dedication to her studies earned her a spot on the high honor roll for all four years and her pursuit of academic excellence was complemented by her membership in the National Honor Society.

Franchi’s love for sports shone brightly in basketball and soccer. She was named to the Section 2 Girls Basketball All-Star Team and received accolades as a Second Team Suburban Council All-Star and a Second Team Suburban Council Senior All-Star. Moreover, Franchi’s leadership qualities were recognized when she served as the captain of her basketball team during her senior year. Franchi’s passion for basketball has also led her to pursue her athletic career at the collegiate level. She has been offered a full scholarship to St. Michael’s College, where she will continue to shine on the court and represent the Colonie community with pride.

In addition to academic and athletic skills, Franchi’s dedication to community service is equally commendable. She was actively involved with the Capital District Girls Basketball League as a coach, showing her commitment to nurturing young talent. Additionally, her charitable endeavors were highlighted when she organized a student-staff charity basketball game at Colonie High School, bringing the community together for a noble cause.

“Isabella’s exceptional contributions to both athletics and the community have garnered well-deserved recognition,” said Colonie Athletic Director Bill Roemer.” Not only is she a recipient of the prestigious Capital District Sports Women of the Year award, but she was also honored with the Suburban Council Excellence in Leadership Award in 2023. These accolades are a testament to her hard work, dedication to multiple sports, and qualities as a leader on and off the field.”

The Capital District Sports Women of the Year Awards Gala will be held on Monday, Aug. 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the GE Theatre at Proctors in Schenectady. This event will honor Franchi and other outstanding female student-athletes from high schools and colleges across the Capital District. It’s an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the achievements of these exceptional young women. More information can be found here:

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