Friday, December 18th, 2020–Syracuse Academy of Science elementary Atoms learn a new computing language and skill that allowed them to crack a very impressive code. That language is one none other than Binary Code! Our Binary Buddies used the numbers 2, 1 and 0 to convert their names into Binary Code for this fun STEM and computing activity. The first grade Atoms remembered to ‘save often’ when writing their code by creating their very own necklaces. The beads on the necklace correspond to the numbers in the Binary Code and the alphabet. Keep up the great work, Atoms!

Friday, December 11th, 2020—It was pawsitivly a great virtual story time with News Channel 9’s news anchor, Christie Casciano, Sunny 102.1 radio personality Rick Gary, and their furry friend Ringo. 

This dynamic trio read to the first grade students one of their favorite books, Ringo is his Name-o, which is about their four legged friend who helps bring smiles, laughter and joy to everyone he meets. Ringo is a certified therapy dog who is active in the Syracuse community visiting schools, nursing homes and any place where therapy is needed. This virtual story time is one that you certainly don't want to miss, and did we mention there is audience participation needed? Listen, follow along and watch as we get ready to learn about Ringo and his many adventures throughout the community. Please click here to watch as Christie, Rick and Ringo read the book, ‘Ringo is his Name-o.’

Thank you Christie, Rick, and Ringo for taking the time to share this story with us, and for all that Ringo has done to help those in need throughout the community.

Thursday, December 17th, 2020—Welcome to Syracuse Academy of Science’s first-ever Teacher Spotlight! Each month we will be highlighting and shining a spotlight on one of our esteemed faculty members. For the month of December, we are pleased to announce the interview with the one, the only, Dr. Ay! Dr. Ay teachers high school science.

"Dr. Ay has been a wonderful addition to our team. Her positivity radiates through the halls. Aside from her high-quality chemistry instruction, she is the facilitator for diversity club and a mentor to our students for congressional awards" - Dean of high school

Interview with Dr. Ay

• What three traits define you? Optimistic, dedicated, polite, I start everything with great enthusiasm but it is hard for me to stay motivated for a long time. I need motivated friends like me to keep the energy alive. (is there a one word for this trait)
• What is your greatest accomplishment? Once I was a charity event organizer when I was in Michigan and Hamilton, NY. I brought the whole Hamilton community together to organize a bake sale. I was in the news. :)
• Best book you have ever read? Blindness  by Jose Saramago
• What is one thing you cannot resist?(food/dessert/candy/etc.) Lahmacun
• If you could have dinner with one person living or dead who would they be and why? My Grandma, I have never met her. She died before I was born. I am curious about our similarities and differences.
• What advice would you give to kids who are struggling at school? You need to be patient and practice it many times. Before studying anything learn about your learning style. When is your brain functioning well. Find out. Just reading is not enough for learning. you will read it, and write it down in order to keep the knowledge. And to make it yours you need to explain it to someone else. I used to explain the history topics to my bird before every exam, and they were great listeners.
• Tell us, what is something that might surprise us about you? Now we are publishing a children magazine with my friends. My role is small but I am glad I am part of it.

Monday, December 21st, 2020—Earlier this week, Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school recognized its students and staff at the December virtual Student of the Month ceremony for demonstrating the character traits of caring and compassion. Each month, students are recognized for their hard work and for demonstrating the month’s character trait. Congratulations to all of our students and nominees! Please click here to view the Student of the Month ceremony.