Thursday, November 21, 2019—With Thanksgiving Recess just a few short days away there were just a few things on these middle school Atom’s mind. Keeping the true essence of the holiday in mind, students find a way to give back to their community and support a dear SAS teacher who is currently battling cancer, while enjoying their first Teen Center Night of the school year.

Students were encouraged to bring with them to Teen Center Night, non-perishable food items to assist CNY families in need. With no surprise, middle school Atoms went above and beyond the call to action and collected over 170 items which were donated through the CNY Pay It Forward organization.

At the Teen Center Night, students enjoyed an evening filled with activities such as basketball, video games and movies, while enjoying some delicious snacks from the PBL concession stand. All proceeds from this event were donated to the SAS teacher battling cancer.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019—Each Student of the Month ceremony, there is a character trait that we encourage students to embrace both inside and outside the classroom. For the month of November, the character trait was Citizenship. Kindergarten and first grade Atoms were awarded for their willingness to help others, while going above and beyond demonstrating and embracing this character trait.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019—As the school day was winding down the day before Thanksgiving Recess, high school Atoms took the time to celebrate in style with a pep rally. An afternoon filled with great camaraderie, excitement and ultimately fun. In fact, Officer Brandon Hanks played Aniyah for a 1:1 Sneaker Challenge. To view the videos, visit our stories on Facebook or Instagram. In addition to the Sneaker Challenge, staff introduced the winter athletes and offered words of encouragement for the holiday. To view more pictures from the event, please visit our Facebook page.

Thursday, October 30, 2019—Where Orange is more than just a color, high school students learn just what it takes to become a student at Syracuse University. Admission counselors shared with the students about campus and academic life up on the hill, and how Syracuse University customizes its education so students are able to gain real world experience from industry leaders. Students are bold, stand out from the crowd and hold the belief that one person can make an impact - and the Orange Family can change the world. Thank you, Syracuse University for taking the time out of your schedule to come and speak with our high school students.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019—With the goal in mind to become a better you, martial arts is just one of many programs that will have the potential to instill confidence, self-discipline and perseverance. An art that will literally knock your socks off, elementary Atoms are ready to get moving and learn from the master himself at Five Star Martial Arts. Students were taught self-defense, discussed bullying, and learned patience while perfecting each move. Thank you, Five Star Martial Arts for the hands on learning experience.

Friday, November 15, 2019—Perfect weather, beautiful sunsets, incredible architecture, rich history and only a short bus ride away. Any guesses where the middle school PBL students went? We’ll save the anticipation, and let you know. The students packed their bags and visited the Nation’s Capital. While in Washington D.C., students toured Capitol Hill where they visited the Library of Congress and learned about the architecture of the building, how guests can use one of the largest libraries in the world, and also saw the first books ever in the Library of Congress - which fun fact, were donated by Thomas Jefferson. Next on the tour, Atoms walked around the National Mall where they saw the Capital Building, the Washington Monument, the White House and finally the Lincoln Memorial - where many stood in the same place as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This field trip, and these incredible experiences are ones our Atoms will cherish and remember always. To view more pictures from the trip, please visit our Facebook page.

Monday, October 28, 2019—A ‘gorges’ college visit was in store for the junior class as they traveled to Ithaca, New York to learn more and experience first hand Ithaca College. Students attended an information session where they gathered insight regarding admission requirements, tuition, information about the college, campus and student life. With no cloud in sight and a beautiful day, Atoms took in the campus’ natural beauty, various building and experienced a glimpse of campus life while on a tour. Atoms take-away how Ithaca College prepares its students for the workforce or graduate school, as well as, the requirement that all undergraduate students must complete a minimum of one internship prior to graduation. Thank you, Ithaca College for sharing this opportunity, and showing the Atoms around campus on this ‘gorges’ college visit.

Thursday, November 14, 2019—A little snow and cold didn’t stop these Atoms from learning and having the ‘best day ever’ at one of their favorite field trip locations, The Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Students bundled up with their hats, coats, mittens and boots and walked both indoors and outdoors taking in all the animals in their habitat. Students were able to make connections from this experience and what they are learning in the classroom. At each exhibit, teachers would lead a discussion and ask the students about animals, plants and habitats. Some of their favorite animals they saw were the ducks swimming in the pond, wolves pacing around back and forth, and of course the Snow and Amur leopards. The Amur leopards came up close to look at the Atoms and ended up giving them quite the performance. Thank you, The Rosamond Gifford Zoo for creating an opportunity to have the ‘best day ever’ even in the snow!

Friday, November 15, 2019—High school Atoms take the afternoon to celebrate all they have accomplished so far this school year at the Marking Period 1 award ceremony. Students were recognized for their academic achievements and for making the honor roll. Keep up the great work, Atoms! To view more pictures, please visit our Facebook page.

Friday, October 25, 2019—With their future after graduation on their minds, high school students had the opportunity to ask a handful of questions, gather information and introduce themselves to over 23 colleges, universities and post-high school learning opportunities. From questions regarding topics such as campus life, student housing, scholarships, admission requirements and so much more. Thank you to all those who made the college fair event possible and for the admission and recruiting teams from the colleges, universities and post-high school learning opportunities for attending.