Author: Saratoga TODAY

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will open its 14th Annual Photography Show with a Holiday Reception on Monday, December 1, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. The celebration will take place in the beautiful new Welcome Cabin, part of The Larry Gordon Outdoor Education Center at the Town of Wilton’s Historic Camp Saratoga.

The evening will include an awards ceremony recognizing the winning photographs. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the winning images displayed in the Welcome Cabin. Guests are invited to enjoy a festive holiday reception celebrating another successful year for Wilton Wildlife.

A cherished annual tradition, the Photography Show brings together photographers, naturalists, and community members to appreciate the unique landscapes and wildlife of the Saratoga Sand Plains with images that celebrate the mission of Wilton Wildlife with its focus on environmental education, outdoor recreation, and conservation.

This year marks the first time the event will be held at the newly completed Welcome Cabin, the centerpiece of Phase I of the Larry Gordon Outdoor Education Center. In addition to the winning photographs that will be featured in the Welcome Cabin, the online gallery for the show will also open on December 1. To see the online gallery go to https://www.wiltonpreserve.org/annual-photography-show Light refreshments and friendly conversation will round out the evening, and all are welcome to attend.

The Welcome Cabin is located at Camp Saratoga (90 Scout Rd, Wilton, NY) and is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. In addition to the winning photographs, visitors can engage with exhibits about the natural and human history of the Saratoga Sand Plains and the hands-on exhibits and activities for kids.

Registration for the exhibition opening is appreciated. For details about the Annual Photography Show or the Larry Gordon Outdoor Education Center, or to RSVP, contact the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email info@wiltonpreserve.org. For trail conditions, program updates, or general information, visit www.wiltonpreserve.org. Wilton Wildlife’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Ag Science teacher Mary-Elizabeth Sedgwick (Foote) has been named the 2025 CASE Model Teacher, a major accomplishment in agricultural education. The national award from the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inquiry-based instruction, professional development, and student success. Sedgwick, who has taught agricultural science for nine years, is being recognized for transforming her classroom into a highly rigorous, hands-on learning environment that emphasizes critical thinking and real-world application. She holds eight CASE certifications, allowing her to offer a robust, sequential pathway for Schuylerville students, covering everything from Animal Health and Veterinary Science to Agricultural Research and Development.

The Model Teacher recognition also spotlights Sedgwick’s incredible dedication to building program resources. She has strategically secured more than $50,000 in grant funding from organizations including CASE, the National FFA Organization, and local community partners. This funding ensures students have access to modern, industry-relevant equipment, from Vernier sensors and lab workstations to a state-of-the-art mobile maple syrup production facility. 

The program’s success has received New York State Career and Technical Education endorsement, and Schuylerville students have collectively earned over 200 college credits through the articulation with SUNY Cobleskill.

The real impact of the CASE curriculum, however, is seen in the students. Class of 2024 graduate, Juliana Schulze, who enrolled in Food Science on a whim, initially focused on animal science. Through the hands-on work and curriculum, Juliana discovered a deep, unexpected passion for the field. Her newfound interest led her to compete in the New York FFA Food Science Career Development Event, where she placed third out of over 100 participants, helping her team secure a state victory. Today, Juliana is a sophomore at Delaware Valley University, majoring in Food Technology with a focus on food safety.

“It is because of the CASE curriculum that she was exposed to an industry she had not previously explored, opening doors and paving the way for a meaningful career,” said Sedgwick.

Beyond her work in Schuylerville, Sedgwick is a recognized leader in agricultural education. She has served as a CASE Lead Teacher for three years, mentoring colleagues across the country and running her own “CASE: Now What?” mini-workshops to help fellow teachers implement the curriculum effectively. Looking ahead, Mrs. Sedgwick plans to launch the Agricultural Research and Development (ARD) course as a capstone experience, encouraging students to conduct authentic scientific research. Her long-term vision includes expanding the Schuylerville program to a full 6-12 pathway.

“Mary’s impact on our Agricultural Education program is nothing short of transformative,” said Superintendent Dr. Ryan Sherman. “Her passion, innovation, and commitment to hands-on learning have elevated opportunities for our students in ways that will benefit them for years to come. Being named the 2025 CASE Model Teacher is a well-deserved recognition of the remarkable work she does each and every day.”

An awards ceremony was held at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo, during which she was presented with a commemorative plaque and $1,250 of Vernier Science Education supplies for her classroom.

A total of 116 Schuylerville High School students took part in the SUNY Adirondack Instant Admit Day, held right on the high school campus. 

SUNY Adirondack offers a wide range of academic programs designed to help students seamlessly transfer to four-year colleges and universities or step directly into high-demand careers.

 The Instant Admit initiative provides an accessible and stress-free pathway to admission, ensuring that every student can explore college opportunities regardless of their future plans.

“We’ve seen great success,” said Rhonda Triller, SUNY Adirondack’s Director of Marketing and Communications. “This is our second year in a row doing it, and we’re growing every year in terms of the number of districts who participate. Last year, four out of five participating schools saw an increased percentage of students attending. Instant Admit Days really show students—especially those who may not have believed they were college ready—that there are possibilities for them at SUNY Adirondack. And for students already planning to attend college, we offer excellent options and a great start toward a bachelor’s degree.”

How Instant Admit Works

• Schuylerville sends each participating student’s transcript to a SUNY Adirondack admissions representative.

• An application is created for the student on their behalf.

• Students receive an official acceptance letter directly from SUNY Adirondack—many on the same day.

HVCC Instant Admit Success

Schuylerville also hosted an HVCC (Hudson Valley Community College) Instant Admit Day for interested seniors. Thirteen students were accepted into various programs offered by HVCC, such as nursing, marketing, business administration, electrical construction & maintenance, paramedic studies, liberal arts & science, and more.

Students who completed their HVCC application ahead of time were scheduled for individual appointments on campus. An HVCC admissions representative met one-on-one with each student, to review the application, discuss the program they selected, and answer questions about next steps.

“These personalized approaches help students feel confident and informed as they move toward their post-secondary goals,” said Principal Mark Brooks. “We want every student to feel supported in finding the path that fits their interests and aspirations, and opportunities like Instant Admit Days make that process accessible to everyone.”