SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs City School District held a Board of Education meeting on Sept. 21 to discuss a new COVID screening testing partnership with Saratoga County, “Stay Open Plan” updates, as well as updates on the capital Legacy project

New COVID Screening Testing Partnership

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Patton has announced a COVID screening testing partnership with the Saratoga County Department of Health, working closely with the County Director of Health. Saratoga Springs City School District is a couple of weeks away from implementing weekly screening and diagnostic tests, with the opportunity for those who ae vaccinated to opt out. As of Sept. 21, 79% of eligible people in the county ages 12 and up are vaccinated, and based on staff reports, 83% of staff members in the Saratoga Springs City School District are vaccinated.

“Saratoga is leading the way when it comes to having both screening and diagnostic testing available to school districts,” said Dr. Patton. 

Federal funding is available for the district to run this program and is available to all districts in the area. Saratoga will begin with the staff, having them provide proof of vaccination or their Excelsior Pass to get an accurate count on the unvaccinated and the logistics of how many need to be tested on a weekly basis. Once the district is comfortable with the testing process, information and parental consent forms will be shared with parents. School nurses will also have PCR tests for symptomatic students, also requiring parental consent; within 24 hours students will be notified of their PCR test results. 

“Stay Open Plan” Updates 

Updates to the districts “Stay Open Plan” were also announced at the most recent Board of Education meeting. 

Approximately 6,000 students are attending classes in-person again throughout the district. Since the first day of school, there have been 21 confirmed positive COVID cases between students and adults; 9 in elementary, 11 in middle school, and 1 in the high school. Currently, 101 students are on mandatory quarantine by Saratoga County. The school is required to report the following key indicators to the county for contract tracing: consistency of mask use, social distancing and time of association, and vaccination status of those 12 years and older. The county, not the school district, determines who quarantines and for what length of time. 

The academic plan in place is PIVOT. PIVOT is for classes, grade levels, or the entire school to transition to temporary online learning. Students will Zoom in daily for live instruction, following their normal daily schedule. Teachers should have already shared procedures with grades K-12, with additional information regarding study halls and flex to be announced. Attendance will be taken and Zoom links can be found on Seesaw for grades K-5 and Canvas for grades 6-12. 

Looking ahead, an enhanced quarantine support plan will also be implemented beginning the week of Sept. 20 for 6th graders and in October for everyone else. This enhanced online support is for individual students under a longer quarantine period; a longer quarantine consists of three or more days. This is the information available as of Sept. 21: 

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Students and parents will access work and communicate with teachers using Seesaw and Canvas. Teachers will do live check-ins with students under these longer quarantines. Additionally, their online classes will be structured on a set schedule 1-2 hours per class depending on grade level band with a New York State Certified Educator approved by NYSED for live instructional online support. All of which is coordinated by the school district. If a student needs a device, please contact the school’s main office. Students should access their teachers during daily flex time upon returning from quarantine for additional help. 

“Since March of 2020, we learned that students need more live instruction, access to technology, and also alternatives, set schedules and expectations, relationships with peers and adults are even more important, and that we need to do a better job as a district communicating and using communication tools,” said Lisa Cutting, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment.

Capital Project Updates 

Phase 1 of the Legacy Project is complete, and the district is now looking to move on to Phase 2. The Legacy Project includes enhancing security with a new visitor management system, security cameras, etc., as well as other building improvements and energy efficiencies. The bid was this fall (Fall 2021), and estimated completion is Sept. 2023. 

The specific Dorothy Nolan/Greenfield/ Transportation projects include a secure entrance vestibule, cafeteria upgrades, and replacements in the transportation building. The bid for these projects is Fall 2022 with an estimated completion by Summer 2023/2024. 

The bid for projects in the high school will also be in Fall 2022 with an estimated completion in Summer 2025. This includes a renovated dining hall, upgrading from a serving line to scattered food court stations with a variety of counter, group, and booth seating, as well as a renovated fitness center, with the current weight room being converted to a wellness center. 

Now that the district is coming out of Phase 1, the bidding process, they will proceed into the design review and construction phases. Members of the district will be updated on the progress of Phases 2 and 3 in future board meetings.

LAKE LUZERNE — The Double H Ranch will host the Annual Backyard Oasis Gala on Saturday, Sept. 18 to raise funds and awareness for year-round, in-person, virtual, and alternative programs for children living with a serious illness. Led by chairpersons Lisa and Robert Moser, and Lone Ranger Supporters Christine Mallozzi & David Buicko and Dee & Steve Haraden, “guests” will gather in their own “Backyard Oasis” wherever it may be while enjoying Gala To Go food delivered by Mazzone Hospitality with signature cocktails and beer provided by DeCresente Distributing. 

A highlight of the Double H Ranch Gala is always the incredible live and silent auctions. Over 150 items are available online with something for everyone and every home, starting at $50. Registered supporters will be able to view the items, place bids, and “buy it now” starting at 5 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, Sept. 15. The auction will remain open until 10 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 19. Bidders can register for free at doublehranch.cbo.io, and do not need to be attending the virtual event on Saturday to participate. 

Showcase Auction items include a one-week stay and farm tour at Live Oak Stables in Ocala, FL; Lake George getaway for up to 18 people at Villa Nirvana, next to The Sagamore; a one-week stay in Anguilla Villa Abbey, which sleeps up to 12; outdoor pizza oven; ultimate backyard party; new deck system from Curtis Lumber; and a Florida Fishing Charter. 

Virtual guests are also invited to sponsor a camper by visiting fundraise.doublehranch.org/oasisgala. For more information, please visit www.doublehranch.org/special-events/oasisgala 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Canadian Road poet Scott Cook is coming to the Caffe Lena stage on Sept. 29. From 7 to 9 p.m. Scott Cook sings with “his heart and soul,” providing uplifting and inspiring music to anyone who listens. He is “truly one of Woody Guthrie’s children” and a concert you can’t miss!

Caffe Lena, Youth2, and All Hands and Hearts hopes you will join them in-person for the concert; however, in-person ticket holders will also be provided with a complimentary livestream link upon request. If you are certain you will not be attending in-person, you are encouraged to buy a livestream ticket now so you can support Youth2 and enjoy the event from home. 

This concert will benefit Youth2 – Youth Helping Youth, a youth philanthropic group and All Hand and Hearts – Smart Response, an organization committed to effectively and efficiently addressing the immediate and long-term needs of global communities impacted by natural disasters. Youth2 is a field of Interest Fund formed under the guidance of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region. Youth2 seeks to encourage young people to participate in meaningful community service work. The participants of Youth2 serve on the Advisory Board and learn leadership and philanthropic skills. Youth2 helps to fund and give guidance to social action projects that are proposed, approved, and led by young people. Youth2 is also committed to connecting youth to already existing community service projects. 

In-person at Caffe Lena: Scott Cook Benefit Concert “Songs of Social Action & Social Justice” on Wednesday, Sept. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. Ticket Link: www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-squared-presents-scott-cook-songs-of-social-action-social-justice-tickets-160013230881.

Live Stream Ticket Link Only: www.caffelena.tv/programs/live-scott-cook?categoryId=94013 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar (SSAS) is accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year. SSAS is entering the 14th year of helping deserving high school students attend college. Applicants must be a sophomore attending Saratoga Springs High School and an engaged learner with a good attendance record and a desire to attend college. Students must also meet economic qualifications. 

Participating students will receive two Dell computers (one for high school and another for college) and will be assigned a mentor to assist with professional and life skills development. SSAS also pays for SAT and ACT prep courses, as well as school- related expenses such as school trips, prom tickets, club fees, yearbooks, caps and gowns, and even college deposits. SSAS will also cover the cost of college tours, cultural immersion trips, and social skills development. Participants will also receive $1,250 per semester for 8 semesters while attending college. 

Past participants have attended local community colleges as well as schools such as Brown, Columbia, Cornell, RPI, Skidmore, and all NYS colleges and universities. 

SSAS works with the Saratoga Springs High School Guidance Department. Students interested in applying to the Sponsor A Scholar program should contact Brandy Crary or Matt Nelson in the Guidance Department at the High School, 518-587-6690. The application deadline is October 28, 2021; teacher recommendations may be required. 

For more information on the Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar program or for more information on how to support the program, please contact Executive Director Cynthia Hollywood at 518-207-7682 or email cindyhollywood@gmail.com. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Independent School (SIS) has hosted its annual Kite & Flight Festival for many years. The greater Saratoga community has come to love this free, family event and will be even happier to know that it will be in-person on Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the SIS campus. SIS will comply with the health and safety measures put forth by New York State. All individuals, regardless of vaccination status will be asked to social distance and wear a mask when not eating. The event will be outside, rain or shine, with an open-air tent. This year’s Festival will provide local families the opportunity to embrace flight in a fun and creative way, with new and exciting activities, and delicious local food vendors. 

The festival will feature a hot air balloon on display (weather dependent), a climbing rock wall, flight-themed crafts, face painting, room to fly kites, DIY kites, kites and frisbees for sale, Kite & Flight swag for sale from Nourish Designs, nature trails, local food vendors such as Kaleidoscope Café, Jay’s Pizza, and Ben & Jerry’s, and so much more. The event is free to attend, and while many activities will be free, some will require a small fee. 

For more information about this year’s Kite & Flight Festival, please visit www.siskids.org/giving/kiteandflight.cfm 

SARATOGA COUNTY — Tri-County Literacy Center is excited to announce that they have received a three-year pledge from The Sandy Hill Foundation for their reorganization project. 

This funding will enable Tri-County Literacy Center (TLC) to help their neighbors improve their lives by fostering literacy skills through practical, learner-centered education. TLC provides adults in Warren, Washington, and Saratoga Counties with one-to-one volunteer tutors who work with their learners to help them achieve their literacy goals. 

Tri-County Literacy Center’s main office is located in Crandall Library in Glens Falls, and according to Kathy Naftly, Director of Crandall Library, “Crandall Public Library is honored to be able to support Tri-County Literacy Center and its adult learners and tutors by providing a home base for a myriad of services. When our shared community thinks of our public library, they envision books. The ability to read, or literacy, is the key to unlocking our complex and delightful literary visions. Both of our organizations honor all who want to gain from said services; rich or poor, old or young, native-born or immigrant, worker or soon-to-be-employed, all are welcome. The Library and literacy – a perfect match.” 

Tri-County Literacy Center offers a variety of tutoring services free of charge to adults including basic literacy skills (reading, writing, and math), high school equivalency preparation, English as a new language and assistance with preparation for the US Citizenship exam. TLC is dedicated to creating partnerships with other local social service organizations to assist individuals as they pursue their educational path and to help provide opportunities for independence and economic mobility. 

Marilyn Bien, Tri-County Literacy Center Board Chair, states, “Tri-County Literacy Center is very grateful to The Sandy Hill Foundation for their generous support of our fledging organization. We appreciate this community partnership as we build Tri-County Literacy Center’s outreach in Glens Falls and the surrounding areas. Providing more adults with improved literacy skills, helping them attain a high school diploma, or learn English as a new language helps the entire community grow. Now with the Foundation’s help we can continue our mission to adult learners.”

BALLSTON SPA — Saratoga County 4-H is offering a Sheep Shearing Clinic this fall to youth ages 10 and older. The event will take place at the 4-H Training Center on Middleline Road in Ballston Spa on September 16, 2021 at 5 p.m. This clinic will exhibit the art of sheep shearing and preparing wool breeds for show. Participants will be provided a hands-on learning experience from professional shearer Siri Swanson. 

Siri Swanson is a Shepherd and Shearer of Yankee Rock Farm. Swanson has an abundantce of background knowledge in the sheep industry and has been shearing for the last five years. Siri along with shearing partner, Colin Siegmund, strive to maintain animal comfort and top-quality clipping. 

Cost is $5/family and is required at entry or prior to the clinic. The event is free of charge for 4-H members and their families. Please contact the 4-H office for additional information and to register at 518-885-8995 or email the 4-H Livestock Educator at rjl287@cornell.edu. 

4-H is the Youth Outreach component of Cornell Cooperative Extension that connects youth ages 5-19 to hands-on learning opportunities that help them grow into competent, caring, contributing members of society. To learn more go to www.ccesaratoga.org. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Academy for Lifelong Learning continues its tradition of presenting educational and social opportunities for adults 55+ by offering 18 classroom/outdoor courses and 26 Zoom courses this fall. Two, five-week sessions are being offered in the fall term. Session one starts Sept. 13. Session two starts Oct. 18. 

Course brochures are available at local libraries, YMCA’s and retirement communities or by request at 518 587-2100 x2390 or jeff.shinaman@esc.edu or online at www.esc.edu/all. Registrations will be accepted throughout the term until full. Some courses will sell out. Annual membership is $75 and goes through June 30, 2022. Five-week courses are $50. 

Topics for these noncredit courses include music, literature, mindfulness, poetry, solar system, sleep/dreams, climate change, Italian language, genealogy, local walking tours, supreme court, cooking, painting, life stories, environment, writing, hiking, fly casting, investing, iPhone photography, Chinese wisdom, speaker series, history, art, science, and more. Join A.L.L. locally for outdoor courses or from anywhere on Zoom options.

Founded in 1992, the Academy is a nonprofit, membership organization whose members share a love of learning. A self-funded entity, A.L.L. is sponsored by SUNY Empire State College. Designed to offer lifelong learning and comradery among seniors, A.L.L. also offers a winter and spring term, Special Interest Groups, (SIGs) and special events that are held throughout the year. If you would like to support the Academy by becoming a member or for more information, contact the Academy office at (518) 587-2100 ext. 2390, email jeff.shinaman@esc.edu, or go to www.esc.edu/all.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Educators and families from Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, and throughout the Capital District gathered on Saturday at Congress Park pledging to seek and “teach truth” about United States history and inclusive pedagogy. 

The action comes as state lawmakers across the country are introducing bills to ban school curricula that include information about the role of racism, sexism, heterosexism, and other oppression in U.S. history. 

The program began with a teach-in at the Solomon Northup historical marker on the southwest corner of Broadway and Congress Street with Rachel Seligman, then moved to Congress Park for art-making activities with C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios and the Tang Museum. Conversations with families and educators took place through noon, and spread throughout the community with MLK Saratoga’s walking tour, and free admission to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. 

Several states, including MO, TX, ID, AR, IA, LA, NH, OK, RI, WV, AZ, and NC have targeted such curricula offered by the New York Times 1619 Project, Southern Poverty Law Center, Black Lives Matter at School, and the Zinn Education Project. Meanwhile, the New York State Board of Regents passed a framework this past spring to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in the curriculum. 

Saratoga Educational Equity Network is organized around the belief that each and every student, family, and faculty member in the Saratoga Springs City School District should be seen. SEEN is committed to dismantling systemic racism, promoting intersectional justice, and confronting bias in the Saratoga Springs City School District. 

C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing a space where the benefits of artmaking impact both the individual and the community as a whole. They offer low-cost art workshops and groups, community wellness activities, and open studios to promote artmaking and the creative process as a vehicle for personal growth, communication, and social change. 

MLK Saratoga shares Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s vision of peace and justice for all, building civil and human rights awareness by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social justice through community events and offerings by utilizing performance, dialogue, and the arts as a collective launching point. MLK Saratoga is a registered 501(c)(3). 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — StoryWalks are popping up all over the United States, especially after social distancing practices went into effect due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Story Walk Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg Hubbard Library. They can be found in all 50 states and 13 countries. A StoryWalk gives children and families the opportunity to participate in active movement, education, and literacy while exploring a special place in the community. Saratoga Springs Public Library and Pitney Meadows Community Farm have partnered to bring a new StoryWalk to the city. This particular walk features the children’s book “Cat’s Colors” by Airlie Anderson.

“The Pitney Meadows Community Farm is thrilled to partner with the Library to incorporate the StoryWalk onto the recreation trails of the Farm,” said Pitney Meadows Education Director, Sarah Miles. “The program is a great new way to welcome children and families to explore the trails and experience the benefits of time spent outdoors together. We hope it will increase community engagement with the land and encourage future activity at Pitney Meadows, which is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk.” 

This particular StoryWalk opened on Sept. 1 at Pitney Meadows (223 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs), and the public can continue to enjoy it until Oct. 31.