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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Sand Creek School welcomed its incoming educators with an innovative “Welcome to Sand Creek” event this week. The theme “Be the Change,” highlighted the school’s commitment to empowering new teachers to make a positive impact from day one.

“The event is designed to foster a sense of community and engagement among the newly hired and first-year teachers,” said Sand Creek principal Michael Marohn. “We kicked-off the day with a short presentation which introduced our new staff to the school’s values, mission, and educational approach.  Following the presentation was a day filled with fun, learning and opportunities to begin building relationships with their new colleagues.”

Activities were crafted by the school’s “twobies” – experienced teachers entering their second year at Sand Creek – and guided by teacher leaders who embody the school’s commitment to excellence in education.

This tradition of hosting a welcome event was initiated last summer as a way to acclimate new teachers to the Sand Creek environment. 

“The event serves as a platform for fresh faces to integrate into the Sand Creek community, fostering camaraderie and offering networking opportunities that extend beyond departmental boundaries,” added Marohn.  By involving “twobies” and teacher leaders, Sand Creek is fostering a culture of mentorship, where experienced educators share their insights and wisdom with those just beginning their journey.”

As Sand Creek prepares  to open its doors for the upcoming academic year, the “Welcome to Sand Creek” event serves as a powerful reminder that change starts with the collective efforts of dedicated educators. Through camaraderie, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence, these new teachers are poised to make a lasting impact on the school, its students, and the community it serves.

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Coogan and Reese have demonstrated their passion for the arts and their commitment to nurturing the talents of our students. 

Coogan is a Sand Creek art teacher who has experience working as part of the Lisha Kill Drama Club during her time in the district. Reese is a speech pathologist at Roessleville who gained experience working on Sand Creek’s spring production. Reese is also currently working with students as part of the summer theatre group.  Both Coogan and Reese are graduates of Colonie and are excited to continue the tradition of opportunity and inclusivity that the Sand Creek extra-curricular drama program offers students. 

“With Coogan and Reese directing Sand Creek’s club we can anticipate an unforgettable experience for students filled with creativity, growth and collaboration,” said Superintendent of Schools David Perry. “Together, they will foster a welcoming environment where every member of our club can explore their talents, develop their skills and find their unique place in the world of theater.”

Stay tuned for updates on the exciting plans that Coogan and  Reese will be spearheading for the upcoming school year. 

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Sand Creek Middle School students and families joined together at the Colonie Central High School MUG on Friday, June 23 in celebration of their eighth-grade students moving up to the high school.

The event was filled with pride, joy, and a sense of accomplishment as families, educators, the school community came together to celebrate the achievements and growth of these exceptional young individuals.

Principal Marohn welcomed students and families telling them  “Today is the day we get to celebrate all of your accomplishments during your time at Sand Creek.”

In his remarks, Marohn also talked about the traits the students have developed during their time at the Middle School. “Collaboration, determination, patience, organization, community, empathy, humility, and the ability to navigate changing technology. Whether you recognize this or not, the past four years have helped set the foundation for the life you are going to lead.”

During the moving-up ceremony, students were presented with various awards, certificates, and tokens of recognition. The ceremony also included traditional elements such as the national anthem and of course the presentation of the students. Additionally, it provided an opportunity for students to bid farewell to their middle school years, reflecting on the memories, friendships, and experiences they cherished.

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Classes to be held at Lisha Kill Middle School

Click here for a printable version.

Course Offerings

High School

• English 9, 10, 11
• Algebra 1
• Algebra 2
• Geometry
• Global 9, 10
• U.S. History & Government
• Earth Science
• Living Environment
• Chemistry
• Health
• Economics
• Physical Education
• Spanish 2, 3 (NYCAL Checkpoint A exam TBD)

Middle School

• English 7-8
• Math 7-8
• Science 7-8
• Social Studies 7-8

Summer Calendar

High School & Middle School Hours

Session 1 : 7:30—9:10 a.m.
Session 2 : 9:15—10:55 a.m.
Session 3 : 11:00-12:40 p.m. (if needed)

Important Dates

• Wednesday, June 28; Registration Resident West Wing Cafeteria HS
• Thursday, June 29; Resident and Non-Resident Registration West Wing Cafeteria HS
• Wednesday, July 5; Classes Begin
• Tuesday, August 15; Last Day of Classes
• Thursday, July 13; Deadline for Walk-in Regents Registrations
• Wednesday, August 16; Regents Examinations
• Thursday, August 17; Regents Examinations & Teacher Rating Day

First day of classes is 7/5. Classes run Wednesday to Friday for the first week. Last day is 8/15.

Attendance

Every student is required to attend a minimum of 23 class sessions out of 25 days of instruction. Absence for special events (for example, previously scheduled vacations, sporting events, camps, court appearances, etc.) is not excusable. These absences will count as regular absences. Students who miss more than 2 classes will be dropped from class. A tardiness of 15 minutes or more will be considered an absence. Minutes being late will be added up.

Code of Conduct

No smoking, no vaping, possession of weapons, illegal drugs or alcoholic
beverages. Violence or any disruptive behavior is not permitted at any time. Offenders will be dropped from the summer school program. Summer School is a closed campus. Students are NOT allowed out of the building between classes. All South Colonie Central School District Code of Conduct regulations will be enforced.

Parking: Licensed drivers may drive to Summer School and park on campus.
Vehicles must be registered and insured. Students may park ONLY in the lot closest to Waterman Avenue. Vehicles parked in other areas may be towed.

Dress Code: Hoods must be kept down; No hats.

Chromebooks: Students are expected to bring their Chromebooks with them every day. Students who attend districts other than South Colonie should bring the device issued to them by their home school. Usernames and passwords will be provided to connect to South Colonie’s wifi.

Registration Information

• CCHS student registration will be held on June 28 and June 29 from 8:30-11 and 12:30-2:30 at the West Wing Café.
• At this time school counselors will be  available to answer questions and meet with parents and students.
• Non-resident students must have letter on school stationery signed by an authorized school official and their final report card.
• Fees/Tuition will be refunded only if a class is canceled due to insufficient enrollment. In general, minimum of 10 students is necessary to run a class.
• Requests to take examinations for Regents must be in writing and signed by an authorized school official.

7 and 8 grade student registration

All 7th & 8th grade student DO NOT need to register at the high school. Middle school counselors will sign students up for their subjects. All information (student schedules & bus routes) will be mailed home.

Fees & Tuition

Tuition for non-residents : $400.00 per course

Walk-In examination for non-residents : $25.00 per exam

(Cash or check payable to South Colonie schools. No credit cards.)

Drivers Ed

Please note that the drivers education program will not be running in Summer 2023. We will have certified instructors and staff to resume the program in Summer 2024.

Bus Schedule

Click here to see the bus schedule.

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In a powerful display of resilience and remembrance, Sand Creek Middle School recently welcomed Holocaust survivor Ivan P. Vamos to speak to students about his extraordinary journey during one of history’s darkest times. The event, organized by teacher Nina Kaplan, aimed to educate and inspire young minds by providing firsthand accounts of the Holocaust and emphasizing the importance of empathy, tolerance and understanding.

Ivan Vamos, born in March 1938 in Budapest, Hungary, was faced with the terrifying reality of Hitler’s march into Austria as a young child. Despite the assumption that their established status would protect them, Ivan’s family soon realized the harsh truth. Ivan’s father, conscripted into a slave labor battalion accompanying the Hungarian Army in their invasion of Russia, tragically perished. The Vamos family faced further persecution as restrictions and discrimination against Hungarian Jews intensified.

As the war progressed, the Hungarian government, under the influence of Nazi Germany, began deporting Jews to concentration camps. Ivan’s mother, determined to protect her son, assumed false identities and sought refuge in rural areas until they eventually returned to Budapest. Seeking safety in protected houses arranged by courageous individuals like Raul Wallenberg, they narrowly escaped the boxcars destined for extermination camps.

Surviving in bombed-out apartment buildings until the arrival of the Russian forces, Ivan and his mother endured the hardships of post-war conditions. Eventually, they emigrated to the United States, where Ivan pursued education, built a career as an engineering geologist, and contributed to various fields and projects globally.

“Mr. Vamo’s visit to Sand Creek Middle School served as a profound opportunity for students to hear a firsthand account of the Holocaust and its lasting impact, Nina Kaplan said. “He has enriched our understanding of history and taught us valuable lessons of empathy and tolerance. We thank him for his unwavering dedication to educating future generations and for inspiring us all to create a more compassionate and inclusive world.”

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Excitement filled the halls at Sand Creek Middle School today as three esteemed experts on American wars descended upon the campus, providing an unforgettable learning experience for seventh-grade students. Ms. Medved and Mr. Sanders, the dynamic social studies duo, orchestrated this opportunity for their students to delve deeper into their study of the Civil War.

The first expert, Jennifer Lemack, curator at the NYS Museum, captivated the students with an array of artifacts relating to slavery, the abolition movement and the African-American experience following the Civil War. 

Next, Thomas Grott, a passionate civil war reenactor, took center stage. With enthusiasm and expert knowledge, he transported the students back in time, sharing fascinating insights into the lives of soldiers during the Civil War. From discussing the challenges they faced to showcasing authentic uniforms and personal belongings, Grott’s engaging presentation brought history to life before their eyes.

Finally, the students had the privilege of meeting Patrick McMahon, a dedicated sergeant in the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and a passionate collector of war memorabilia. McMahon presented a remarkable collection of uniforms and personal items belonging to soldiers who fought in World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. His vivid storytelling and tangible artifacts allowed the students to connect with the experiences of those who served in these significant conflicts.

“One of the highlights of the day was when the students had the chance to try on the uniforms themselves, immersing themselves in the shoes of soldiers from different eras,” said Ms. Medved. “We are extremely thankful to each of the individuals who shared information with our students today. The opportunity to interact with experts and explore genuine artifacts enriched their knowledge and made the information more digestible for our students.”

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The Sand Creek school community recently rallied together to honor and express their heartfelt appreciation for the dedicated bus drivers who play an indispensable role in the lives of students. A special event was organized to showcase the collective gratitude and support for these unsung heroes, highlighting their essential contributions to the safe and reliable daily transportation of students.

“Our bus drivers are the first smiling faces our students see each morning, and they play a vital role in ensuring their safe arrival to and from school,” said Principal Marohn. “Their commitment and dedication deserve our utmost appreciation.”

The event was held at Sand Creek Middle School on Friday, June 9 during morning drop-off. The school’s staff and students came together, demonstrating their gratitude by preparing an assortment of grab-and-go goodies for the bus drivers to enjoy. 

The event was marked by warm interactions and heartfelt conversations, as members of the school community took the opportunity to express their gratitude directly to the bus drivers. Students eagerly extended words of thanks and admiration, recognizing the drivers’ kindness, patience and professionalism throughout the school year.

The bus driver appreciation event showcased the power of unity and gratitude within the Sand Creek community. It exemplified the core values of kindness, empathy, and appreciation that the school strives to instill in its students. 

Sand Creek School continues to celebrate the invaluable role of its bus drivers, recognizing that they are not merely transportation providers but also mentors, role models, and trusted members of our school community.

“Through events like these, the school seeks to foster a culture of appreciation and support, ensuring that the tireless efforts of bus drivers do not go unnoticed,” Marohn added. “A special shoutout goes to Mrs. Moskov and her student kindness crew for making this event so special for our drivers.”

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We are thrilled to announce that Sand Creek Middle School’s “The 2 Dominators” team, comprised of talented 7th graders Yubraj Yadav and Abel Renjith, has emerged as National Champions at the prestigious 2023 National KidWind Competition! 

Facing competition from schools across the nation, Yadav and Renjith showcased their exceptional knowledge, skills and dedication in the field of wind energy. Their innovative ideas and meticulous craftsmanship have earned them this well-deserved honor. 

“Let’s extend our congratulations to Yubraj and Abel, as well as their dedicated mentors including Mr. Brown and others who have guided them throughout their KidWind journey,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “Their remarkable achievements not only showcase their dedication and creativity but also highlight the caliber of talent we have within our school community. These students have exemplified the values and skills we strive to instill in our students, and their success on a national stage is a testament to their hard work, commitment, and the guidance of our devoted educators. Well done by all!”

More about KidWind can be found here: https://www.kidwind.org/.

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