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DEI

At South Colonie Central School District, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all members of our community. We believe that embracing diversity enriches our educational experiences, strengthens our community, and prepares our students to thrive in a global society.

South Colonie is a community committed to sharing values of diversity and inclusion in order to achieve and sustain excellence. We firmly believe that we can best promote excellence by fostering opportunities for our diverse group of students, faculty and staff and by creating a climate of respect that is supportive of their success.  Further, we recognize that the responsibility for excellence, diversity and inclusion lies with all of us at South Colonie: Board of Education, district leadership, administration, faculty, staff and students.

 
 
 
 
 

Inclusivity

We value and celebrate the unique perspectives, backgrounds, and identities of every student, staff member, and community member. Our commitment to in

Equity

South Colonie is dedicated to providing equitable opportunities and resources to ensure that every student has the support they need to reach their fu

Cultural Competence

We recognize the importance of cultural competence in fostering understanding and respect. Our educational programs aim to cultivate cultural awarenes

Equity Statement

The South Colonie Central School District stands together with the 24 school districts that comprise the Capital Region BOCES region in our shared responsibility to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, particularly those who have been historically marginalized. It is our commitment that the diverse experiences and perspectives of our students, families and staff will be recognized, reflected and embraced in our educational institutions.

While our 24 school communities in the Capital Region each have a unique makeup, we all share one commonality: Our desire to provide an equitable educational experience that ensures opportunities and the necessary support for success for all students. It is our pledge to embrace the diverse experiences, values, beliefs, backgrounds and perspectives of our communities as we endeavor to prepare our students for the society they will encounter in life beyond our school systems.

 
 
 
 
 

Equity Report Card

In May 2021, the New York State Board of Regents adopted a policy encouraging all schools to implement meaningful diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices. In response, South Colonie released its first Equity Report Card in October 2021, providing demographic and student achievement data to identify potential disparities and guide improvement efforts.

The second edition of the report, available below, helps the district continue its work to reduce inequities in learning opportunities and support academic success and social-emotional well-being for all students.

Equity Report Card Second Edition

The Art of Resilience

 

A costumed mascot stands on a stage behind a banner that reads 'Resilience'.

 

A virtual assembly introduced Colonie Central High School students to the meaning behind “resilience” — the idea that challenges do not define us, but how we respond to them does. As part of a partnership with visiting artist Rae Frasier and ICARE’s 2025-26 beneficiary Albany Housing Coalition, students and Frasier created a mural to show the courage it takes to face obstacles, learn from setbacks, and support one another. 

At Pack Fest, the mural was unveiled and officially gifted to Conners House, a veterans home in Albany. The artwork is meant to honor the veterans who live there and thank them for their service. It is also a message of hope and support from CCHS students.

Also this year, Frasier also worked with Colonie Central High School’s Gay Straight Alliance students on a mural depicting pride and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Maddi’s Fridge”

 

A teacher reads a book titled 'Molly's Trip' to a group of seated children.

 

The story of “Maddi’s Fridge” helps students explore important lessons about food insecurity, friendship, compassion, and helping others in times of need. Through classroom conversations and activities, students reflect on how small acts of kindness can help create a stronger, more caring school community where everyone feels supported and valued.

Inspired by those lessons, some buildings collected snacks to help support students and classrooms throughout the school day. Many classrooms keep extra snacks available to ensure students stay energized, focused, and ready to learn.

Elevating Student Voices

 

A group of students stands behind a display board at an event, with the word 'TADY' visible on a banner above.

Students from Colonie Central High School's No Place for Hate group got a chance to present their year-long work at the Elevating Student Voices Symposium, an event celebrating student-led initiatives across the Capital Region.

The group displayed a posterboard to highlight their efforts promote inclusivity, diversity, and respect among students at CCHS. Throughout the 2025-26 school year, No Place for Hate conducted lunch tables, collaborated with other clubs, attended workshops in and out of school, created slides, posters, and video skits at CCHS. 


For the third year in a row, Colonie Central High School earned the No Place for Hate designation from the Anti-Defamation League. To earn this designation, schools must commit to creating sustainable, positive change on campus. 

The Art of Resilience: GSA Mural 

 

A diverse group of people stand and kneel in front of a colorful mural with a rainbow flag and the text 'We Are Home!'.

 

In addition to her work with ICARE, visiting artist Rae Frasier continued exploring the theme of resilience with Colonie Central High School’s Gay Straight Alliance students. 

Under her guidance, a second mural depicting pride and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community was completed by high school students and put on display.

Black History Month Poet Visit

 

A young person with curly hair speaks into a microphone while sitting on a stage.

 

Schenectady Poet Laureate Adonis Richards visited Lisha Kill Middle School for a special Black History Month event. Richards led presentations aimed at empowering students through the art of storytelling.

A writer, poet, and the Program Coordinator for the Office of Intercultural Affairs at Union College, Richards often performs under the names "Sincerely, Donnie" or "The Quiet Storm." He draws heavily on his Afro-Latino heritage to champion underrepresented voices. His journey into poetry began in 2016 following a performance at a hip-hop show; today, he is the author of three books and the founder of Lucid Writers.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration Night 

 

Five people, including three children and two adults, pose for a photo at an indoor event.

 

For the first time, our middle school families gathered to celebrate the cultures and traditions of Hispanic and Latin American countries. On Hispanic Heritage Celebration night, everyone in our Sand Creek and Lisha Kill school communities was invited to participate.

Local restaurants contributed food for the free event and families were also invited to bring a traditional dish from their heritage country to share.

In addition to food, there were free salsa lessons, open floor Latin dancing, crafts and activities, all celebrating Hispanic and Latin American cultures.

Multicultural Festival

Bi-annually, the South Colonie school community is invited to embark on a journey that transcends borders and celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures within our student body. Our Multicultural Celebration is a vibrant and joyous event where South Colonie families, teachers and community members unite to share the sights, sounds, and flavors from around the world.

What to Expect

  • Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds with a diverse array of international cuisines prepared by South Colonie families. From traditional dishes to exotic flavors, there's something to satisfy every palate.

  • Cultural Performances: Immerse yourself in captivating performances that showcase the talents and traditions of our students. Dance, music and other artistic expressions will grace the stage, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of our community.

  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with interactive exhibits that offer hands-on experiences, allowing you to explore different aspects of various cultures. Learn, participate, and connect with the global community within South Colonie.