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SSHS Receives NYSPHSAA 2024-2025 School of Excellence Award

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Saratoga Springs High School has been named a 2024-2025 School of Excellence by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

The designation is awarded to schools that apply and have at least 75% of their varsity teams earn the Scholar-Athlete Team Award during their respective sports seasons. NYSPHSAA’s Scholar-Athlete Team Award has a proud tradition of celebrating schools that exemplify a commitment to success in the classroom while balancing the demands of athletic participation. 

“Congratulations to our Schools of Distinction and Excellence,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “These prestigious honors represent the culmination of a school year marked by outstanding achievement in the classroom. These accolades would not be possible without the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the student-athletes, coaches, and administrators whose efforts these awards proudly recognize.” 

Laying Foundations: Second Annual Girls Construction Camp Wraps Up First Week

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Education, Featured.


A Dodecahedron — a 12-sided sphere like object — is a common tool used by NCTWC to teach teamwork and woodworking skills. During the week, the girls made several of these to help hammer in soft skills (Aidan Cahill). See Story pg. 13

The second annual Girls Construction Camp recently wrapped up with girls in middle school learning about trades. 

The camp was put on by the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition (NCTWC) and took place at the Whitbeck Construction Education Center in Gansevoort. The camp was the first of two to be held this year — the second being an advanced course. 

Doug Ford, the president of the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition said the idea for the camp came from State Assemblywoman Cathy Woerner. Ford said that Woerner was looking for a way to bridge the gender gap in the trades by exposing girls to careers in the trades at a young age. 

“We really want to make sure that young women know that the trades are an opportunity,” Ford said. “There’s no reason for them not to go into the trades with the technology that exists today.” 

Ford said that only 10% of jobs in the trades are filled by women. Part of the mission of the camp was to also show that the trades weren’t just physical labor, according to Ford. 

“When you talk about the trades, we always seem to focus on the physical aspect,” Ford said. “But there’s a lot of jobs that are part of the trades that aren’t necessarily physical. Project management, design, logistics — all these jobs associated with the trades that never get talked about.” 

Job security was a benefit of the trades emphasized by Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R-112) who addressed campers during the closing ceremony of the camp. 

“Jobs are always going to be around,” Walsh said. “You’re always going to need a plumber, you’re always going to need an electrician, you’re always going to need somebody to do HVAC, you’re always going to need a good carpenter. So, there are always going to be really good jobs in the trades and the jobs are only getting better.”

During the weeklong camp, the girls learned about the trades, went on field trips to job sites, saw firsthand the importance of soft skills like communication and got hands on experience working with common tools and materials. 

Nora Chanese, an incoming ninth grader at Queensbury High School, talked about how communication on the job site was one of the major challenges the girls faced in the camp.

“It’s definitely been challenging our communication skills,” Chanese said.  “There’s been times where we just absolutely fail at communicating and then we just can’t build.” 

Chanese said she learned about the camp through a BOCES program that exposed incoming high schoolers to different paths. While Chanese said she is focusing more on sciences for now, she’s very grateful for the skills she learned at the camp. 

“This is obviously a needed skill in the future,” Chanese said. “It means I don’t have to always call someone if something breaks — I can fix it myself.” 

Under the direction of Matt Whitbeck, Vice President of NCTWC and owner of Whitbeck Construction, the girls built charcutier boards, Viking chairs, flower boxes, sawhorses and other wooden objects. 

In addition, the girls participated in team-based competitions, got a look at quarry operations and cared for their respective mascots — two dogs named Buster and Bella. They also learned that the one naughty word on a construction site is “perfect,” according to Whitbeck. 

One of the issues Ford said the camp didn’t have to deal with was distractions from smartphones. He said during the camp, they didn’t have to tell a single camper to put away their phones. This lack of distractions was noted by another camper, incoming eighth grader Joe Kelleherstark. 

“It was actually really nice,” Kelleherstark said. “Sometimes in school, you don’t have that much teamwork because you’re normally allowed to go on your phone. You’re never talking to your friends at lunch and stuff. This time there were no phones, no nothing. And we were actually focusing very well on each other and helping each other.” 


One of the projects the girls worked on was a viking chair. The chair was comprised of two boards interlocking ( Aidan Cahill).

Both Kelleherstark and Chanese said they were exposed to the trades growing up through their grandfathers — Chanese’s was a general contractor while Kelleherstark said hers was involved in building houses. 

Kelleherstark said she was considering carpentry as a career since she’s always been building things as a kid. One of the things she was most happy with was how well people got along. 

“I’m pretty happy about how people are working together,” Kelleherstark said. “It’s very exciting to see people working together, because sometimes people are just on their own.” 

Schuylerville High School Named 2024-25 NYSPHSAA School of Excellence

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


NYSPHSAA logo provided.

Schuylerville High School has been named a 2024-25 School of Excellence by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA). To earn the School of Excellence Award, 75 percent of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award. Schuylerville has 26 total teams that compete during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.

“Congratulations to our Schools of Distinction and Excellence,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “These prestigious honors represent the culmination of a school year marked by outstanding achievement in the classroom. These accolades would not be possible without the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the student-athletes, coaches, and administrators whose efforts these awards proudly recognize.”

Congratulations to Schuylerville CSD athletes, coaches, teachers and parents for their diligence and commitment to developing the district’s well-rounded student-athletes!

WSWHE BOCES Driver Education Program Offered in Saratoga

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Drivers Education Program- Courtesy of WSWHE BOCES

Saratoga Springs, July 18, 2025 – Employment Training for Adults (ETA), a division of the WSWHE BOCES, is offering a Driver Education program this fall. 

In response to requests from area students and schools and in recognizing the need for more availability, ETA is again offering a 48-hour non-credit Driver Education program designed to educate students on appropriate driving skills and habits as well as playing a responsible role in the highway transportation/safety system.

In addition to the classroom time (24 hours), there will be 24 hours of concurrent in-car instruction (6 hours behind the wheel and 18 hours of observation). Successful completion of this course will satisfy the 5-hour pre-licensing course requirement. 

Classroom and driving instruction will take place at the WSWHE BOCES  F. Donald Myers Education Center, 15 Henning Road, Saratoga Springs, NY.

The program is not, by itself, intended as a means to pass the road test. Additional behind the wheel practice is required by DMV (at least 50 hours) in order to take the road test and be ready to obtain a driver’s license.

Orientation and classes start in September. Registration is open now. 

For more information or to sign up for the Driver Education Program, visit the ETA website at https://www.etaprogram.org/apps/pages/DriverEd.

Saratoga Snowmobile Association Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipient

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Each year, the Saratoga Snowmobile Association offers a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year college, two-year college, or technical (trade) school.

This year’s scholarship winner is Daniel J. Breslin. To qualify, Daniel submitted a transcript, letter of recommendation, and provided an essay to the organization.

The Saratoga Snowmobile Association, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and was recognized as the 2021 “Club of the Year” by the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA). The organization maintains over 70 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in northern Saratoga County.

For more information, visit: https://saratogasnowmobile.com

Upcoming Events at the Clifton Park Halfmoon Library 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

The following programs will be offered during the week of July 28-August 3. Details and registration information for each program can be found at www.cphlibrary.org or by calling 518-371-8622.

Summer Story Time – Mondays & Thursdays at 10 am: July 28 & 31

– Nurture your child’s love of reading with stories and songs on our Back Lawn. Visit our website and social media for weather-related updates. 

Meet & Greet: Tad and Archie the Jr. Archivist – Monday, July 28 at 10:15 am

Join us as Tad our library frog welcomes his friend Archie the beaver, mascot of the NYS Archives Partnership Trust. The two mascot friends will stop by to visit at the end of our 10 am story time. They will be available for photos, hugs, and high-fives! For all ages, with an adult. 

Learn to Knit – Monday, July 28 at 4 pm

Knitting time! Learn to cast on, knit, purl, and read simple patterns. No experience needed—just bring your creativity! For grades 6-12. Registration required. 

United States Government 101 – Monday, July 28 at 6:30 pm

Become a more informed citizen. The League of Women Voters will present information on how the United States government works, the Constitution, and how the League interacts with our government. Registration required. 

Google Maps – Tuesday, July 29 at 10:30 am

Explore how Google Maps can make getting around easier and more enjoyable—learn to travel from point A to point B with confidence and peace of mind. Registration required. 

Tuesday Crafternoon: Play with Clay – Tuesday, July 29 at 2 pm

Join us for a fun afternoon of crafting with clay. For grades K-5, with an adult.  

ZOOM: PJ Story Time – Tuesday, July 29 at 7 pm

Get comfy in your favorite PJs, grab a blanket, and tune in for a special story time with Miss Chrissie. Registration required.  

Wacky Wednesday: Touch a Truck – Wednesday, July 30 at 10 am

Get ready to have some wacky outdoor fun at this drop-in program when the Clifton Park Highway Department stops by with a variety of construction vehicles. Get an up close look at some BIG trucks! For preschool-grade 5, with an adult. 

Sound Bath Meditation – Wednesday, July 30 at 10 am

Sound healing is the use of sacred instruments or voice to release energetic blockages to induce a state of ease and harmony in the body and achieve profound states of relaxation, helping to restore the normal vibratory frequencies of the cells in our bodies. Sound therapy can also improve brain health and memory by direct stimulation with sound frequencies. Registration required. 

Art in the Afternoon: Tang Museum – Thursday, July 31 at 2 pm 

This program will be run by the Tang Museum’s Traveling Art Program. Create a scene inspired by Ghost River, a painting by artist Tyson Reeder, out of air-dry clay and card stock. For grades 3-5. Registration required. 

ZOOM: Virtual Author Talk with Pria Anand – Thursday, July 31 at 2 pm

Neurologist and author Pria Anand will chat about her new book The Mind Electric: A Neurologist on the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains, which uses case studies, history, fables, and memoirs (all that the medical establishment has overlooked) to look at the complexity and wonder of our brains–and the stories that our brains tell us. Registration required. 

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia – Thursday, July 31 at 7 pm

The Alzheimer’s Association will provide a general overview of Alzheimer’s and dementia for people who are facing a diagnosis, as well as those who wish to be informed. Risk factors of the disease, general stages, and approved treatment methods will also be covered. Registration required. 

Kids and teens can begin turning in Summer Reading booklets to redeem them for raffle tickets to enter our grand prize drawing and earn a free book coupon for the next Friends of the Library used book sale. All entries must be received by August 31. 

Free Ebooks for Kindle – Friday, August 1 at 10 am

Learn how to use the Library’s free resources to access ebooks on your Kindle. Registration required. 

Low Bridge: The Erie Canal in Saratoga County – Friday, August 1 at 10:30 am

Celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal as we journey from Cohoes to Schenectady and witness historical and contemporary views of the canal. Presented by Clifton Park Town Historian and NYS Museum Senior Historian Emeritus John Scherer. 

Upcoming Events at the Brookside Museum

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Here is a rundown of the upcoming events taking Place at the Brookside Museum. All events take place at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Unless noted. For more information check www.brooksidemuseum.org

Brookside Explorers Club: Art Show & Landmark Creations | Saturday, July 19, 10am-Noon 

Join us for our next meeting of the Brookside Explorers Club, a new history and learning club for kids! Artwork from the “Artists Inspired by Their Community” program, an exciting collaboration with Ballston Spa Middle School, will be displayed in the History Hunters Hangout from July-September. And on July 19th, History Scouts can join the fun by learning about some of Saratoga County’s most important landmarks through a learning activity, craft, and play in this engaging and educational event. Kids of all ages are welcome to join the fun! Parental supervision is required and there is a cost of $5.00 per child. 

Summer Garden Program: The Victorian Fascination with Plants | Sunday, July 20, 2pm 

The Victorian language of flowers, floriography, was one of several nonverbal languages used by Victorians. Dr. Catherine Golden will speak more to this, using passages from Victorian literature as examples. Guests will also have the opportunity to make a tussie-mussie (flowers generously donated by Suzanne Balet of Balet Flowers and Design). Registration is required and donations are appreciated. 

Twelve Years a Widow  | Thursday, July 24th, 7pm 

Join Yale historian and Middlebury College teacher, Connor Williams, as he sheds some light on the story of Anne, not only about her life, but also about the challenges of uncovering that story. Anyone who has done historical research knows the difficulties in tracking down the stories of women, particularly working-class women, and especially women of color. The story of Anne Hampton Northup is remarkable. A much sought after cook, she was born free in Washington County, and is best known for being the wife of Solomon Northup, who was kidnapped in 1841 and subsequently enslaved for twelve years. But who was Anne, and how did she manage as a single woman, bringing up three children, for twelve years until her husband’s return? 

Overhearing History a Revolutionary Saratoga Story – A Reading and Book Signing with the Author | Thursday, July 31st, 1pm 

Join historian and author Anne Clothier for a reading of a new children’s publication Overhearing History a Revolutionary Saratoga Story

Travel back to Revolutionary Saratoga with 12-year old Nathaniel. Living in his family’s tavern, he overhears exciting, worrying – and sometimes confusing – talk about freedom and big changes coming to his town. This graphic novel, illustrated by Alex Portal, brings Saratoga’s Revolutionary story to life for young readers. After the reading there will be a book signing with the author and the book will be available for purchase.

 All events take place at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Unless noted. For more information check www.brooksidemuseum.org

Solomon Northup Sculpture Unveiled at Saratoga Spa State Park

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


The bronze statue will be on display and visible from the road until Oct. 7 after which it will be installed in its permanent home outside the courthouse where Northup was emancipated in
Marksville, Louisiana

A bronze sculpture depicting Solomon Northup, the former Saratoga Springs resident, author of the best-selling memoir Twelve Years A Slave, and subject of the 2013 Academy Award-winning film, was unveiled today during a ceremony at Saratoga Spa State Park. 

The 13-foot-tall “Hope Out of Darkness” traveling statue will be on view in front of the Lincoln Bathhouse until October 7, 2025.  

“New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is honored to host a sculpture celebrating Solomon Northup and his incredible story,” said OPRHP Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “Northup’s courage during his enslavement, his captivating written work and his fight to hold his enslavers accountable make him one of Saratoga Springs’ most treasured residents. It is therefore fitting to display a statue of Northup at Saratoga Spa State Park so current generations can better honor and understand his legacy.”  

Northup, a free-born American born in Minerva, NY in 1808, lived in Saratoga Springs with his wife and children for about seven years when he was tricked into joining a traveling circus. This sinister ploy led to Northup being kidnapped in Washington, D.C. in April 1841 and sold into slavery. Enslaved in Louisiana, Northup met Canadian carpenter and abolitionist Samuel Bass in 1852. Gaining Northup’s trust, Bass facilitated getting word to Northup’s family and friends in the North about his condition and status. Through these letters and action taken by New York Gov. Washington Hunt, Northup was emancipated and reunited with his family in upstate New York in January 1853. Northup’s incredible ordeal became national news and his best-selling memoir Twelve Years A Slave was published in July 1853. 


Northup lived in Saratoga Springs as a freeman until he was tricked into traveling with a circus and kidnapped in Washington. Photos by Aidan Cahill.

“The life of Solomon Northup offers a powerful lens into an often-omitted chapter of New York’s history,” said OPRHP Interpreter of African American History Lavada Nahon. “His story underscores how the legacy of enslavement in the Empire State did not end with gradual abolition but evolved to maintain systems of racism. The Federal fugitive slave laws enabled the abduction and enslavement of free Black New Yorkers, like Northrup, for profit. They were just one way racism continued to thrive. As we approach the bicentennial of the abolition of slavery in New York in 2027, we are called not only to commemorate that milestone but to acknowledge the persistent, lingering legacy of slavery today.”  

The sculpture display reflects New York State Parks’ Our Whole History (OWH) initiative, which seeks to reveal and share historically under-told stories of ordinary and extraordinary people across New York State. In 2027, New York State will recognize the 200th anniversary of the end of legalized slavery in the state (1827) and the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first Africans enslaved in the former New Netherland colony (1627). In anticipation of this significant commemorative year, OPRHP is implementing a multi-year interpretive initiative called ‘Enslavement to Freedom: 1627-1827-2027.’ With ‘Enslavement to Freedom,’ OPRHP and relevant state historic sites are developing exhibits, public programs, and other educational resources to explore New York’s history with slavery and a pivotal period of transition for the Black community in early New York, which gives better context and understanding for later historic movements, like Abolition and the Underground Railroad. 

Northup’s efforts to hold his enslavers legally accountable brought details of the illegal domestic slave trade to light but were otherwise largely unsuccessful. After his memoir was published, Northup became active in the abolitionist movement. His whereabouts later became unaccounted for, and historians believe Northup died in 1863 or 1864.  

Emmy and Oscar-winning sculptor Wesley Wofford created the bronze likeness of Northup. Wofford says the papers in Northup’s upraised hand represent the papers required to be held by free Black Americans to move about the country, the letters sent north in an effort to free Northup, the legal documents written to free him, and his own memoir. The manacles in Northup’s opposite hand represent his time in captivity and the indignities he and many others suffered during long years of enslavement. The pedestal Northup is standing on is split to represent the duality of his life. He is courageously rising up from enslavement with a posture of triumph and struggle.

The statue was unveiled at the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans in February 2025 and will continue traveling the country before being permanently installed in 2026 outside the Marksville, Louisiana courthouse where Northup was emancipated on January 4, 1853.  

NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is planning a series of programs and events at the Victoria Pool House and Saratoga Music Hall during the sculpture’s time in Saratoga to honor Northup, explore African American history and examine slavery.  

New Graphic Novel Brings Revolutionary Era to Life for Young Readers

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


The New Graphic Novel is a local effort to get kids interested in the Revolutionary War (Courtesy of Saratoga 250)

A powerful new graphic novel is aiming to engage young audiences with the rich, revolutionary history of Saratoga. 

Overhearing History: A Revolutionary Saratoga Story is the first book in a new series designed to educate and inspire students, families, and history lovers of all ages.

The publication is the product of a partnership between the Campaign for Saratoga 250 and the Saratoga 250 Commission. It is among the multimedia and live event productions being delivered to ensure the Saratoga story is told in relatable, innovative, and accessible ways to appeal to 21st century audiences.

“We believe Saratoga’s contribution to saving America’s fight for independence is as impactful as Philadelphia or Boston,” said Bill Teator, Executive Director of the Campaign for Saratoga 250. “We are excited to publish this book supporting a core educational mission because it gives young people and their families a relatable connection with our history through the eyes of someone their age.”

Written by Anne Clothier and illustrated by Alex Portal, Overhearing History follows Nathaniel, a 12-year-old boy living in the then Saratoga District of the expansive Albany County in 1775. 

As tensions mount and loyalties divide, readers are introduced to the complexities of war, identity, and survival in a region still uncertain about its role in a coming conflict. 

The novel addresses themes like justice, freedom, and conflicting allegiances as rumors of war mount, while introducing perspectives often left out of traditional history books—including those of loyalists, enslaved people, women, and Native Americans. 

“Coming from a long line of family history keepers and storytellers, I grew up on a first name basis with many of my ancestors, some of whom were from the area that is now Saratoga County in the 1770s,” said Clothier.  “I’ve always been curious about their lives and what this area was like over two centuries ago.”  

“Upstate New York has some of the richest Revolutionary War history in the country,” said Portal. “I’m exceedingly proud to be a part of bringing that history to new light; particularly during America’s Semiquincentennial!”

Staff at Saratoga National Historical Park reviewed it for historical context. Devin Lander, New York State Historian, offers an editorial review on the back cover praising the book for its authenticity and engaging method to spark the interest of children in history. 

Designed for readers in grades 4–6, the book is also ideal for classrooms and families, featuring vivid illustrations and thought-provoking discussion prompts. It serves as the first installment in a planned series that will take Nathaniel and his community through the critical years of 1776 and 1777, including the legendary Saratoga Campaign.

Availability and Proceeds

Overhearing History: A Revolutionary Saratoga Story is available online now in both ebook and paperback editions. All net proceeds support the nonprofit Campaign’s mission to educate, promote, and preserve Saratoga’s revolutionary legacy.

The book can be purchased:

• Online (with eBook and paperback formats available in Amazon’s Kindle)

• Coming soon to local participating retailers, Impressions of Saratoga and Northshire Bookstore – we are happy to hear from more retail outlets, schools, libraries or youth organizations interested in carrying it.

• Read more about the book at https://saratoga250.com/overhearing-history-a-revolutionary-saratoga-story/

Stay updated and see engaging videos, historical commentaries, and live event schedules, including with 18th century re-enactors, by following social media at @Saratoga250 on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, and joining the e-newsletter at Saratoga250.com .

“This is more than a history book—it’s a way to reconnect with the founding values of our country and understand them through real human stories,” said Teator.

High School Graduates Score Top Marks 

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Education, Featured.


Saratoga Central Catholic valedictorian Raphael Sanok, left, will be attending The Rochester Institute of Technology for physics. Salutatorian David Mattes, right will be attending Catholic University for mechanical engineering (Courtesy of Saratoga Central Catholic School) 

Ballston Spa valedictorian Audrey Bedell will be going for her degree in biomedical engineering this fall. (Courtesy of Ballston Spa High School) 

Ballston Spa salutatorian Christine Jiang will be going for a degree in political science this fall. (Courtesy of Ballston Spa High School)

While summer in Saratoga is typically ushered in with horse races and tourists, it also marks the end of a long journey for many young Saratoga Springs area residents — High School graduation. 

With the sound of Pomp and Circumstance fading in the distance, here is a brief look at the achievements of local graduates. 

Ballston Spa 

Ballston Spa High School Valedictorian for the class of 2025 is Audrey Bedell. Bedell has a GPA of 99.508 and graduated with a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation and Honors with Mastery in Mathematics and Science. During her time at Ballston Spa High School, Bedell was enrolled in sixteen college and honors level courses. 

Outside of the classroom, Bedell was a three-time medalist for the Science Olympiad, a member of National Honor Society, Tri-M Honor Society, and played viola in symphonic orchestra, pit orchestra, All County Orchestra and New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Orchestra. Bedell plans on pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering in college. 

Ballston Spa’s Salutatorian for the 2025 class is Christine Jiang. Jiang has a GPA of 99.23 and 508 and graduated with a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation and Honors with Mastery in Mathematics and Science. During her time at Ballston Spa High School Jiang was enrolled in 20 college level, AP, honors and International Baccalaureate classes and is an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Candidate. 

Outside the classroom, Jiang was a member of the cross country and track teams, was secretary of the National Honor Society chapter and was a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society as well as the Students Helping Students and True Crime Club. Jiang will be pursuing a degree in political science in the fall. 

Students also receiving honors for being in the top 10 of their class include Noland Schmitt, Tucker Cornell, Collin Flynn, Kayleigh Cassels, Jacqueline Horsch, Mia Collins, Jessica Bowens, and Ethan Norris.

Schuylerville High School 

The Valedictorian for Schuylerville High School Class of 2025 is Holly Price. Price is heavily involved in her community — both in and out of the classroom. In her time at Schuylerville, Price was involved in 11 clubs — achieving leadership roles in two of them — played on the JV girls basketball team and varsity tennis team and was volunteered throughout her community which included being a weekly volunteer at the library, assisting with the Middle School Drama Club and caroling at nursing homes. She has received the Rensselaer Medal Award, the CASDA Capitol Region Students and Teachers who Make a Difference Award and the Black Horse Excellence Award   — among many others. 

This fall, Price will be attending Colgate University studying neuroscience and French. 

The Salutatorian for Schuylerville High School Class of 2025 is Grace Lail. In her time at Schuylerville, Lail was involved with 10 different clubs and organizations on campus, participating in unified basketball and was involved with five different community service organizations. Some of her awards include the St. Michael’s Book Award, Black Horses Excellence Award and National Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award — among others.

This fall, Lail will be attending William and Mary College studying music and French. 

Zooming out to the rest of the class: 21 Schuylerville students ended their high school career with a GPA of 96 or higher, 16 received Advanced Regents Diplomas with Honors, 44 received Advanced Regents Diplomas, 54 received Regents Diplomas, 25 received CDOS Commencement Credentials and 17 students received a technical endorsement on their Diploma. 

As for next steps, 68 students will be entering a four-year college or university, 20 will be entering a two-year college, 15 will be entering the workforce, 3 will be entering trade school, 1 student will be going to Belgium for an exchange program and one student will be entering flight training. 

Saratoga Central Catholic School

The Valedictorian for Saratoga Central Catholic School Class of 2025 is Raphael Sanok. Sanok has spent his entire education thus far in the Catholic Education system as he’s an alumnus of St. Mary’s Academy in Glens Falls. Sanok will be attending the Rochester Institute of Technology with the intent to major in physics. 

The Salutatorian for Saratoga Central Catholic School class of 2025 is David Mattes. Mattes is an alumnus of St. Mary’s School in Ballston Spa — having spent his entire education in the Catholic System— and will continue in Catholic education for college. Sanok will be attending The Catholic University of America this fall with the intent to major in mechanical engineering. 

Zooming out, of the 30 students, close to 70% will be attending college for a STEM field and close to 30% will be going for business related majors. The class received over $9.7 million in scholarships and were accepted to over 100 colleges. Five students will be participating in collegiate athletics — four of them from the legendary baseball team that won a state championship.