Hello Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School Families,

It’s hard to believe that it’s already the holiday break - where has this time gone? As we get ready to celebrate the holiday season with family and loved ones that are near and dear to us, I wanted to take a brief moment to reflect on all that has happened this past year.

 As the year started off with much promise as the COVID-19 vaccine would be made available to the vast majority, the year 2021 seemed like it would bring much hope and light in the times of darkness. At some point throughout this year, I think we all expected to be beyond COVID-19 and its far-reaching impact on the education system, however, much like the 2020 school year, our students, teachers, faculty and staff overcame many obstacles and challenges that presented themselves. If the 2020 school year taught us anything, there is nothing we (as Atoms) can’t accomplish.

Despite the many challenges this year faced, I am reminded of a quote by Mahatma Gandhi, ‘in the midst of darkness, light persists.’ I am drawn to this quote by the generosity, positivity and actions presented this year by the Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School Atoms. But don’t just take my word for it, take a look at all the many wonderful things the students have accomplished thus far.

? Prior to the start of the school year, elementary school teachers helped ‘bridge the educational gap,’ and prepared them for the upcoming 2021 - 2022 school year so students wouldn’t feel left behind.

? Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school’s ‘Ladies in Science Club,’ received a $5,000 grant from The Women's Fund of Central New York that will go towards purchasing materials to help support this student club organization.

? Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school hosted a Thanksgiving holiday canned food drive to benefit the Rescue Mission. Students donated hundreds of canned goods to help those in need.

? Syracuse Academy of Science middle school Project Based Learning students helped their community by sharing the love of reading by creating Little Free Libraries.

? Syracuse Academy of Science high school collaborated with Rotary District 7150, and Terra Science and Education to sponsor three pallets of curriculum books to the Books of the World organization - who support efforts in getting books to people in Africa.

? Syracuse Academy of Science High School students took first, second, and third place in the 2021 Division III CNY Steamboat Competition.

? Syracuse Academy of Science high school Congressional Awards students volunteer their time and service at the Rescue Mission’s Thrifty Shoppers stores and the Blessing Box CNY donation drive.

? Syracuse Academy of Science high school students took first, third and fourth place in the CNY Bridges: Build ‘Em & Bust ‘Em competition.

? Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School students received hats and gloves through the generous donation of Chartwells’ Food Service Director, Ms. Pittsley.

While we are halfway through the school year, Atoms continue to show that they are the light that is shining through the darkness.

Someday, when we look back at this period and reflect upon how we lived through these challenging times, I will always be reminded that it was because of each and every one of our Atoms, their families, teachers, faculty and staff. Many Atoms, one family. We wish you a very happy holiday! 

Sincerely,

Dr. Tolga Hayali
SANY Superintendent

Wednesday, December 15th, 2021—Our hearts are so full with the kindness and generosity from the Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School community members. On this ‘giving Tuesday,’ we wanted to share how one family and one Food Service Director helped give the gift of warmth this holiday season.

Last Wednesday, a family in Ms. Fogarty's class donated hats and gloves for all the students in that class! These kind gifts and gestures will go a long way especially as we get ready for colder months ahead. But wait, that's not all the kindness and generosity continues.

Last Friday, the Food Service Director of Chartwells, Ms. Pittsley, hosted a Hat & Glove Giveaway. This year, Chartwells generously donated hats and gloves to the K-12 students across the district!!!

Our hearts are so full with all this kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness. Our students, and families cannot thank you all enough for the hats and gloves, especially during these colder months. Thank you all again for your kindness and generosity!

Tuesday, November 30th, 2021—Syracuse Academy of Science Charter Schools is proud to, 'Say Yes’ to Education! Say Yes to Education Syracuse is a nonprofit community-wide partnership with the goal of every public school student not only graduating high school -- but doing so with the preparation and support to attain, afford and complete a college or other postsecondary education. This organization supports students and their families on the path to high school graduation — with a goal of their being prepared for a post-secondary education, and able to afford its expenses.

The Syracuse Academy of Science high school students had an opportunity to learn more about the Say Yes to Education program and which colleges would be funded through the program. Atoms also learned what makes them eligible to become a Say Yes member and how to complete the application process.

Tuesday, December 7th, 2021—As the Syracuse Academy of Science High School seniors prepare to start their college application process families had an opportunity to learn about the Financial Aid process from Le Moyne College's Director of Financial Aid.

During the presentation, families learned about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or more commonly referred to at FAFSA. Many colleges and universities use the FAFSA form to determine the applicant's federal aid eligibility. Many states and colleges use FAFSA data to award their own aid, as well.

Wednesday, December 1st, 2021—Last week, Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school hosted its winter Scholastic Book Fair where families had an opportunity to peruse exclusive titles, new releases, discover value packs and so much more. Each purchase made at the Book Fair benefited Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school.

We would like to take this time to thank everyone who helped make this event possible, and the families who attended this event. Thank you for helping share and develop the love of reading with your Atoms!

Saturday, December 4th, 2021—On this ‘Giving Tuesday,’ we would like to shine the spotlight on a select group of students at Syracuse Academy of Science high school. These students are a part of the Congressional Awards Program and dedicate a portion of their weekend to help serve the greater Syracuse community.

Last weekend, Atoms put their love into action by lending a helping hand when visiting the Rescue Mission’s Thrifty Shopper store. Throughout the day, Atoms volunteered their time and service to assist wherever there was a need. Their volunteer hours work towards their community service goal as part of the Congressional Awards Program.

Keep up the great work, Atoms! You are making an incredible difference in the community.

Friday, December 10th, 2021—Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school makes it a December to remember with their annual Door Decorating contest. This year, classrooms were tasked with coming up with their own theme and of course decorating their door. Let’s just say the creativity was ‘otter this world,’ and left you walking in a winter wonderland.

Congratulations to Ms. Figueroa's kindergarten class for being named the 2021 Door Decorating Contest winner, with their door theme of Learning in a Winter Wonderland.

Sunday, December 12th, 2021—Last weekend Mr. Yaman's Congressional Awards students headed out to the greater Syracuse community to not only lend a hand, but to ultimately make a difference (and an impact) this holiday season to over 200 families at the Blessing Box CNY Food Distribution event - a local organization aimed to help fight hunger.

During the event, Atoms helped sort various household items, non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, hats and mittens into boxes and bags for those in need to pick up and take with them.

Thank you Atoms for helping make a difference in our community. Keep up the great work, and we look to continue hearing (and seeing) the ways you have made an impact in serving the greater Syracuse community.

Tuesday, November 30th, 2021—Earlier this week, Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school recognized its November Students of the Month for demonstrating the character trait of Citizenship, and were always willing to help, and contribute in the classroom.

We would like to congratulate the students selected for November's Student of the Month ceremony! Keep up the great work and remember to tune in each month as we share, and celebrate the students selected for our monthly Student on the Month celebration. Each month, students will be recognized for their demonstration of that month's character trait. Keep up the great work, Atoms.

Monday, December 6th, 2021—'Tis the season to save! Syracuse Academy of Science middle school Atoms, please mark your calendar for the following two Dollar Dog Dates.

• Wednesday, December 8th
• Wednesday, December 22nd

During the holiday season it is a great time to practice being smart money managers and to save. Students who are participating in Empower Federal Credit Union's Dollar Dog program can deposit their savings through the in-school banking option, or visit any Empower Federal Credit Union branch during the upcoming Holiday Recess.

If your child is interested in becoming a Dollar Dog saver please contact Lauri Hoover at (315) 728-3474 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Membership eligibility required. Empower Federal Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.