In a heartfelt address during the recent Board of Education meeting, a former educator reflected on the emotional journey of establishing the early college high school program in 2010, expressing gratitude for the support received from colleagues and the community. The educator emphasized the importance of a positive climate and culture within the district, not just for students but for all staff members, highlighting a personal struggle with perseverance.
Superintendent Cotto followed with a series of updates, celebrating the success of recent graduation ceremonies and acknowledging the collaborative efforts of staff and administration that contributed to the events. He commended the hard work of various teams, including those responsible for facilities and grounds, which ensured a smooth and memorable experience for families.
Cotto also announced the launch of the summer enrichment program, which is currently in progress, and highlighted the GEAR UP initiative aimed at supporting incoming ninth graders and their families through tutoring and mentoring. He reminded the community about the availability of free summer meals for children under 18, with details accessible on the district's website.
In addition, the superintendent shared news about upcoming job fairs for paraprofessionals and safety positions, scheduled for July and August. He invited the community to the Activated Artists' Fest on August 10th at Schenectady High School, which will showcase local artists and promote social change through various art forms. Lastly, he noted the annual back-to-school vaccination clinic hosted by Ellis, set for August 15th, encouraging families to schedule appointments in advance.