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Saratoga Independent School Names New Head of School, Kristen Mariotti

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Kristen Mariotti will take over as head of the Saratoga Independent School (Courtesy of SIS)

The Board of Trustees at Saratoga Independent School has announced the next Head of School. Following a thoughtful, inclusive, and comprehensive national search, Kristen Mariotti has been appointed to lead Saratoga Independent School effective July 1st, 2026. 

“As SIS looks ahead, we’re excited about the energy and ideas Kristen brings,” said Michael Buckley, SIS Board of Trustees President. “She will build on what already makes SIS strong while helping us continue to improve how we teach, support every student, and stay connected as a community. We’re confident that, with her leadership, SIS will remain a place where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. We also want to thank our current Head of School, Bob Ahrens, for his leadership at SIS. His commitment and stewardship have helped shape the school into the community it is today.” 

Kristen brings nearly three decades of distinguished leadership in independent schools, with deep expertise in enrollment management and community building, and a steadfast commitment to equity, student growth, and mission-driven education.  Kristen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Connecticut State University, a K-8 Teaching Certification from Prescott College, and a Masters of Education in Independent School Leadership from George Mason University. 

For the past five years, Kristen has served as Head of Enrollment Management at Emma Willard School in Troy, NY. In this role, she oversaw admissions, financial aid, and enrollment strategy and served as a key member of the senior leadership team. She partnered closely with school leadership and the Board across a range of areas, including marketing, development, communications, academics, and student life. 

 “I’m inspired and honored to join the Saratoga Independent School community,” Kristen said. “Great schools are built on authentic relationships, shared values, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential. I look forward to growing alongside students, families, and faculty in this next chapter.” 

Prior to Emma Willard, Kristen served as Assistant Head of School at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Greenfield, MA, where she played a central role in strategic planning and operations. Throughout her leadership career, she has also been central in launching equity and inclusion initiatives and providing leadership development programs for students, faculty, and staff.  

Kristen is widely recognized as a leader in her field. In 2024, she received the Values & Vision in Leadership Award from the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals (AISAP). She currently serves as a Trustee at Cheshire Academy, an Advisory Council member for The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), and as a faculty member and cohort leader for AISAP. She is also a mentor with the Enrollment Management Association (EMA).

Her work is defined by a collaborative spirit and a remarkable ability to connect with students, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Kristen’s leadership philosophy centers on cultivating school communities where every student feels known, valued, and supported.

“Beyond her extensive experience and education in independent school leadership, Kristen brings a wholehearted love of learning and an enthusiasm for growth and challenge,” Erica Fuller and Jayne Kirber, Search Committee Co-Chairs, Trustees said. “She is energetic, thoughtful, kind, and genuine, qualities that will serve SIS well in the years ahead. We are thrilled to welcome her to Saratoga Independent School and look forward to all that we will accomplish together.”

SSHS Students Lead the Way Through Participatory Budgeting

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Saratoga Springs High School is transforming civic learning through an innovative Participatory Budgeting (PB) process that empowers students to take an active role in shaping their school community. Through this authentic experience, students identify needs within the school, design capital improvement proposals, and make real decisions about how funding is allocated.

Participatory Budgeting focuses on civic engagement, giving students a real-world connection to how decisions are made in a community. As future voters, students learn how to evaluate spending, work together, and share their voices through a structured voting process.

Throughout the PB cycle, students engage in hands-on learning by identifying school needs, developing ideas for improvement, and working collaboratively with school leaders and staff to refine proposals, assess feasibility, and create detailed plans that include budgets, timelines, and long-term sustainability. Students also take on leadership roles in organizing the process, from developing proposals and creating ballots to communicating ideas and encouraging peer participation, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of student voice.

The 2026 final projects included on the ballot consist of privacy upgrades in restrooms, the addition of an outdoor water source, a grill for the cafeteria, feminine product dispensers in bathrooms, and the addition of bocce courts to support Unified Sports programs.

On March 24 and 25, high school students cast their votes during social studies classes to determine which projects would move forward. A total of 1,645 students, nearly 90% of the entire student body, participated in the election. Students selected a grill for the high school cafeteria as the winning project, with bathroom privacy upgrades receiving the second-highest number of votes.  Students were also given the opportunity to “pitch” future ballot ideas on a Post-it note board as they exited the polling location. Students will now play a role in supporting the purchase and installation of the project as it comes to life in their school.

Macey to Lead Schuylerville Elementary

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Marissa Macey has been announced as the next principal at Schuylerville Elementary
( Courtesy of Schuylerville Central School District)

The Schuylerville Central School District Board of Education plans to appoint Mrs. Marissa Macey as the new principal of Schuylerville Elementary School at its April 13 meeting. Macey currently serves as elementary principal of Kensington Road School in the Glens Falls City School District, where she has served since July of 2024. A 15-member search committee interviewed eight candidates and unanimously recommended Macey as the sole finalist for Board of Education consideration.

“Throughout her time spent with the Board, Mrs. Macey demonstrated a clear, student-centered vision for the elementary school, and a strong commitment to fostering a positive school culture,” said Board of Education President Bernie Buff. “She has an energetic and collaborative approach to leadership and her passion for educating students and creating a place where they can truly thrive was evident in every aspect of her interview.”

Macey brings more than a decade of experience in education to Schuylerville, including prior leadership and classroom roles. Before becoming principal at Kensington Road School, she served as assistant principal at Sanford Street Elementary through WSWHE BOCES, where she supported student interventions, coordinated with families and outside agencies, and helped strengthen academic and behavioral systems. Earlier in her career, Macey was an elementary classroom teacher in the South Glens Falls Central School District for nine years, teaching multiple grade levels and serving as a district-wide instructional teacher leader. Within that role, Macey mentored colleagues, led professional development sessions on foundational literacy strategies, and piloted innovative curriculum approaches adopted district-wide. She began her career as a third grade teacher in the Minerva Central School District.

“I am deeply honored to be joining Schuylerville Elementary School and becoming part of a community with such a proud tradition of excellence,” said Macey. “The warmth and dedication I have already experienced reflect what makes this school and district truly special. I look forward to working alongside staff, families, and students to continue that tradition and build upon it together.”

Macey earned a Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education from the State University of New York College at Oneonta, as well as a Master of Science in Literacy B-6 and Special Education 1-6, from the University at Albany. She also holds a Certificate of Advanced Study in School Building Leadership (SBL). Macey lives in South Glens Falls with her husband and two daughters, ages 7 and 4. She will begin at Schuylerville on or about July 1.

“We are very proud to welcome Mrs. Macey to Schuylerville,” said Superintendent Dr. Ryan Sherman. “The search committee’s unanimous recommendation speaks volumes about her leadership, experience, and the impression she made throughout the process. We are confident she will be a tremendous addition to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our school community.”

Upcoming Events at Wilton Wildlife

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Here are some of the events upcoming at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park

Wilton Wildlife Hosts FrogWatch with Saratoga Springs Public Library

On Friday, April 17, at 7:00 p.m., Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will host an engaging FrogWatch program in collaboration with Saratoga Springs Public Library, which will take place on the trails of Camp Saratoga on Scout Road in the Town of Wilton.

This program invites participants to immerse themselves in frog identification by learning to identify frogs and toads by sight and sound. Children will have the opportunity to view a brief film about local frogs, then take a walk with Wilton Wildlife educators around vernal pools, listen to frogs, and learn about their adaptations. This program is designed for young explorers, aged kindergarten and up, and promises to be a memorable experience filled with exploration.

Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring their own flashlight as this is a nighttime program.

To register for FrogWatch, please visit Saratoga Springs Public Library’s website, sspl.org, or call the Children’s Room at 518 584-7860, ext. 305.

Historic Cornell Fire Tower Opens for the Season 

Climb an authentic fire tower without having to climb a mountain! Get a gorgeous treetop view of Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park and visit a re-created fire ranger cabin complete with a vegetable garden. The Historic Cornell Hill Fire Tower will be open on the weekend of Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

If there is inclement weather, the tower will close. Parking can be found in Parking Lot #3 on Scout Road. Children under the age of five are not permitted to climb the fire tower. The Historic Cornell Hill Fire Tower is owned and maintained by the Town of Wilton and is staffed by volunteers on behalf of the Town. 

Additional upcoming dates this spring include the weekends of May 16 and 17, May 31 (during the Annual Wildlife Festival), and June 21 and 22.

For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org or follow on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve. Wilton Wildlife’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings. 

Saratoga 250 Marks 250th Anniversary of Franklin’s Journey North

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

A 70-year-old Benjamin Franklin passed through the Saratoga region in the spring of 1776 on a mission that failed in the moment but helped shape the American Revolution. Saratoga 250 will commemorate the 250th anniversary of that journey on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. at the Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitors Center.

The presentation, “Benjamin Franklin Slept Here,” will be delivered by Town of Saratoga Historian Sean Kelleher. It explores Franklin’s attempt to persuade Canada to join the revolutionary cause and examines why the effort failed. Traveling north in poor health, Franklin faced harsh conditions, limited support, and political resistance, ultimately returning without achieving his objective.

Kelleher emphasizes Franklin’s age and experience at the time. At 70, he was one of the oldest figures in the revolutionary leadership, bringing decades of diplomatic skill but also confronting the physical limits of travel in wartime. Historians note that the failure of the Canadian mission influenced Franklin’s later success in France, where he secured the alliance that proved critical to American independence.

The talk also connects Franklin’s journey to the Saratoga region’s later significance during the Battles of Saratoga, which helped convince France to support the American cause.

The program is part of Saratoga 250’s broader effort to prepare for the Semi quincentennial through heritage tourism and public history programming. The event is free and open to the public.  Registration is required, details are at https://saratoga250.brightrtravel.com/s/event/benjamin-franklin-slept-here

Schuylerville Teachers and Students Explore the Possibilities of Artificial Intelligence

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education, Featured, Uncategorized.


Pete Carner works with students during a lesson using the Gemini AI platform.
(Courtesy of Schuylerville Central School District.)

“AI can be a helpful tool, but it should support learning—not replace it.”

That’s the guiding mindset at Schuylerville Central School District, where teachers and students alike are exploring the role artificial intelligence can play in the classroom. Over the past six months, educators have been experimenting with AI in lessons and activities, culminating in a Superintendent’s Conference Day dedicated to learning about the powerful ways these tools can support everyday teaching. One of the tools is MagicSchool, an Ed Law 2-D compliant AI platform designed with safety measures in place that suggests age-appropriate prompts and resources to support student learning.

Elementary School

Pete Carner’s 4th grade classroom utilizes thinking classroom strategies on a daily basis. This approach gives students opportunities to work in small groups on collaborative tasks, using vertical, moveable whiteboards. Students actively engage in problem-solving and discussion, creating a more student-centered learning environment. Within this structure, Carner’s 4th graders use Gemini, an AI chatbot developed by Google. In one classroom activity, students used Gemini to create a variety of mini projects based on the short story “Fireflies.” Working in small groups, students took on different creative roles, including designing Kahoot quizzes, writing poetry inspired by the story, developing a test for the class, scripting short plays, and producing character interviews.

“AI was used as a support tool to help generate ideas, outline content, and guide the creative process,” said Carner. “But ultimately, students remained responsible for refining, verifying, and presenting their final work.”

During the activity, one group discovered an error in a Kahoot question generated with help from Gemini, prompting a real-time discussion about accuracy and critical thinking. 

“It was a great learning moment,” Carner said. “Students saw firsthand that AI isn’t always accurate, and that they need to review and check their work. At the elementary level, it’s about giving students early exposure to AI so they can learn how to use it responsibly as they progress through school.”

Middle School

At the middle school level, teachers are experimenting with a variety of AI tools to enhance instruction. Seventh grade social studies teacher Rebecca Nesbitt has explored MagicSchool’s multiple translation tool to help students better understand new vocabulary. In English Language Arts classes, Kerri Brennan’s students used an AI idea generator to brainstorm and expand ideas for narrative writing assignments, while other AI tools are being incorporated throughout the unit to support writing feedback, sentence starters, literary devices, and proofreading. In addition, technology teacher Mark Belden is helping students build foundational skills through a digital literacy course, ensuring they understand how to responsibly and effectively interact with emerging technologies. 

Three Schuylerville Middle School students—Timothy Larson, Natalie Maisano, and Sandra Price—also shared their experiences using the AI platform MagicSchool. The students described the tool as helpful for brainstorming ideas, improving their writing, and gaining a better understanding of lesson topics.

Rather than viewing AI as something that simply provides answers, the students emphasized how it can serve as a starting point that helps them think through problems and strengthen their own work. 

“If you don’t understand a lesson, you can use AI to help you,” said Natalie Maisano, highlighting the tool’s role as a learning aid rather than a shortcut. “It’s there to help you improve on what you’re doing but not give you the answers.”

High School

At the high school level, English teacher Anna Flores is incorporating AI into writing instruction in several creative ways. Each fall, students are asked to write a narrative that features a monster encounter. Flores encourages those who struggle with creative writing to use an AI chatbot that asks guiding questions to help them develop ideas while still maintaining their own creative direction. She also uses AI-generated paragraphs with intentional grammar and editing mistakes to help students practice revising and identifying errors. In argumentative writing units, students use AI to generate potential counterclaims, allowing them to better understand opposing viewpoints and strengthen their own arguments.

In science classes, Tom Robinson has been experimenting with ways AI can support students as they develop ideas for projects and assignments. He encourages students to use AI as a starting point to help generate ideas or explore different approaches to a topic. In his anatomy class, Robinson has experimented with creating a study bot designed to guide students toward answers to unit essay questions without simply giving them the answer. As students build background knowledge in the unit, he plans to expand its use.

“These teachers represent just a few of the many educators in the district who are exploring how artificial intelligence can support instruction and student engagement,” said Director of Curriculum and Instruction Amy Steele-Whitney. “When used thoughtfully, AI can act as a catalyst for learning, but it should never replace the thinking and creativity that students bring to the process themselves.”

Professional Development Day

During the March 13 Superintendent’s Conference Day, K-12 teachers participated in breakout sessions focused on how they can use artificial intelligence and digital tools in meaningful ways. The day was planned and coordinated by Schuylerville Director of Curriculum and Instruction Amy Steele-Whitney, in alignment with the district’s goal for the 2025-26 school year.

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga Welcomes Spring Break with a Week of Wonder, Creativity, and Discovery 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

As spring blossoms across the Capital Region, the Children’s Museum at Saratoga is inviting families to shake off the winter chill and leap into a vibrant week of hands-on learning and imagination during April Break Week, April 3–10. 

From rainbows and slime to unicorns, fairy gardens, and even a chance to meet the Museum’s resident turtle, the week is filled with interactive activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity for children of all ages. With multiple programs offered throughout each day, young explorers can dive into science, art, storytelling, and imaginative play to make every visit a new adventure. 

“Spring is a season of growth, discovery, and imagination, and that’s exactly the spirit we hope families experience during April Break Week,” said Sarah Smith, Executive Director of the Children’s Museum at Saratoga. “Whether children are mixing up slime, planting a seed, or designing their own pair of wings, each activity invites them to explore the world around them through creativity and hands-on learning.” 

The week begins Friday, April 3, with a colorful celebration of science and creativity. Children can discover the magic behind rainbows during Find a Rainbow Day, create their own illustrated journal during Storytime, and experiment with chemistry during the always-popular Slime is Cool workshop. 

Throughout the week, the Museum will offer a rotating lineup of engaging programs. Families visiting Saturday, April 4 can explore the real-world science behind beloved superheroes, while Sunday, April 5 features a special spring-themed art project during the Museum’s Make It! Workshop. 

On Monday, April 6, children can plant seeds after hearing the story The Little Seed, create whimsical fairy gardens, practice mindfulness with dragon breathers, and even design their own wings for imaginative flight. 

Tuesday, April 7 celebrates creativity and kindness with activities ranging from painting mythical rock creatures to crafting unicorn headbands and friendship bracelets. Younger visitors will also enjoy the museum’s weekly Tuesday for Tots program designed specifically for early learners. 

Mythical inspiration continues on Wednesday, April 8, with Art Adventures dedicated to magical creatures and a creative cardboard-building session inspired by Pete the Cat’s Groovy Imagination. 

On Thursday, April 9, children will uncover secrets of the past and present through invisible ink experiments, explore the legendary ride of American patriot Sybil Ludington, and even investigate owl pellets to discover what an owl has eaten. 

The week concludes Friday, April 10, with more science exploration, a frog craft inspired by the classic Leo Lionni story It’s Mine!, and a fascinating look at microscopic life including the tiny but mighty tardigrade. The grand finale gives children a chance to meet Edward, the Museum’s resident turtle, during Turtle Time, where they’ll learn surprising facts about these remarkable creatures. 

With its playful blend of science, storytelling, art, and imagination, April Break Week promises to be a bright and memorable start to spring for families across the region. 

For a full schedule of activities and admission information, visit the Museum’s website or follow the Children’s Museum at Saratoga on social media for updates. 

For admission details, memberships, and hours, visit https://cmssny.org/ or stop by the Museum at 65 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs.

Saratoga Lake Association Environmental Stewardship Scholarship

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

In celebration of its 90th anniversary, the Saratoga Lake Association proudly launchesthe Saratoga Lake Environment Stewardship Scholarship supporting graduating senior high school students who have demonstrated academic achievement and are interested in pursuing a degree in environmental studies. 

Through these two scholarships of $1000 each, the Saratoga Lake Association seeks to support students who are working to become the next generation of environmental stewards.

High school seniors who are graduating from Saratoga High School, Schuylerville High

School, Stillwater High School, Spa Catholic High School, Ballston Spa Senior High School and Corinth High School are eligible. Those seniors who do not attend these high schools but have a residence in the area of Saratoga Lake and watershed are also eligible to apply. 

Applicants must be applying to a 2- or 4-year college or technical institution in pursuit of a degree in environmental studies, environmental science, conservation, ecology, sustainability, natural resource management, climate science, environmental engineering, or related field.

Application requirements include a completed application form, one letter of recommendation and an essay describing their interest in environmental or natural resource studies and how their education will contribute to environmental stewardship.

Any environmental commitments including volunteer work, clubs, projects, internships, advocacy, research, etc. will be important considerations in identifying an award recipient.

To apply, go to bold.org/scholarships/saratoga-lake-association-stewardship-scholarship/.

The application deadline is June 19, 2026. The winners will be announced July 20, 2026.

April Full Moon Hikes at Wilton Wildlife

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park invites community members to experience the beauty of nature after dark during its upcoming Full Moon Hike. The next hike will take place on Wednesday, April 1, at 7:00 p.m., offering participants a rare opportunity to explore the park’s transition to spring under the glow of the full moon.

Led by a knowledgeable environmental educator, this walk provides participants with insights into the unique habitats and wildlife that make Wilton Wildlife a regional treasure. The hikes will be held on the scenic trails of Camp Saratoga, located on Scout Road in the Town of Wilton.

This evening adventure offers a memorable and family-friendly way to appreciate the natural world in a peaceful, moonlit setting. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly and prepare for winter outdoor conditions.

Depending on weather conditions, the program will be conducted on micro spikes if ice is present; otherwise, attendees will enjoy a traditional trail walk. Free micro spike rentals are available to program participants thanks to the generous support of Brookfield Renewable N.A. 

To register, please visit the website at www.wiltonpreserve.org. For more information, call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email info@wiltonpreserve.org. 

For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org or follow on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Maple Avenue Middle School Gets New Principal

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Education.


Michael Lopez has been announced as the new principal of Maple Avenue Middle School (Courtesy of Saratoga Springs City School District)

After a three-month search, Saratoga Springs City School District has appointed Michael Lopez to serve as Principal of Maple Avenue Middle School in Saratoga Springs. 

Lopez will start on April 13. The position has been held by interim principal Mark Fish since Nov. 19. Fish was hired after principal Scott Singer pleaded guilty to stealing funds from a union he was a part of.

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael Lopez as the new principal of Maple Avenue Middle School,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Patton. “His proven leadership as an educator and administrator, combined with his commitment to fostering academic growth and social-emotional development, make him an excellent leader for our students and staff.” 

Lopez is an assistant principal at Watervliet Jr./Sr. High School. Prior to that position, he worked as Assistant Academy Principal at Albany High School, and as a social studies teacher in Syracuse and Queens. 

As for education, Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from SUNY Courtland and a master’s degree in adolescent education with a history concentration from Dowling College.