“Students in Mrs. Beattie’s 5th grade science class recently studied bioluminescent organisms. Each student researched an organism and created an informational poster to showcase their learning, along with a detailed drawing using special glow in the dark materials. Students then collaborated to transform their work into an interactive exhibit in the library. Incorporating blacklights and glowing elements, they created an engaging experience that brought their research to life. Students also encouraged audience feedback and invited the entire school community to visit by promoting the exhibit with posters throughout the building. This project highlights students’ hard work, creativity, and collaboration, while also creating a sense of community by sharing their learning in an exciting and meaningful way.”

Natalia Dugan, Sand Creek Librarian

“Ray is a team player not only throughout the District Office but also within each and every school. He works with positivity to help where he can, sometimes going above and beyond. Ray lends support and guidance to all of the clerical staff on a daily basis. Whether it's a purchasing question, vendor question or general question, Ray always seems to know the answer. He is enjoyable to work with because of this and makes the work environment better knowing we can rely on him.”

Katie Buckley, Senior Account Clerk

“March is Music in Our Schools Month, and we are proud to celebrate the incredible work of the South Colonie Music Department. Throughout the year, our music teachers provide students with meaningful opportunities to grow as musicians, performers, and collaborators. From classroom instruction to concerts, festivals, and community performances, their dedication helps students build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Thank you to our talented music staff and students for the energy, passion, and pride you bring to our schools and community every day.”

Rachel Fazioli, Sand Creek Middle School Associate Principal

“Sand Creek Middle School's 7th grade Gold Team raised over $1,200 through a “Penny War” to help support the Bears, Books & Blankets program. Our school proudly participated in the 10th Annual Bears, Books, and Blankets Collection, a districtwide effort supporting children receiving care at Boston Children’s Hospital. This collection was created in memory of William Rogan, the grandson of former South Colonie Board of Education President Ed Sim and the nephew of Transportation Director Brian Sim. This annual initiative honors William’s legacy by bringing comfort to children facing serious illness. Special thanks to the teachers and staff helping to lead this wonderful initiative!”

Dr. David Perry, Superintendent

“Mackenzie helps to facilitate our "SecondStep" program. She visits each classroom presenting lessons, character traits, and overall productive conversations with our students too help them navigate the at times, tough years of middle school. She is engaging with the students and knows most by name and checks in with those that may need some "extra" support or guidance. Mackenzie is definitely a "Wolf Pack Win" for our school.”

Tara Kiely, Sand Creek Teacher

“I can't think of anyone more deserving of this nomination than our Assistant Director of Transportation, Kyle Bartlett. For the last three years, Kyle has worked tirelessly to keep our buses rolling and our students safe. His unique ability to manage the logistical puzzle known as School Transportation is a value to our district. His relentless work ethic is something that you cannot teach. His "first in, last out" mentality helps show our staff how to get the job done. Kyle's dedication DRIVES our efficiency and his hard work ensures our success. I am proud of Kyle and happy to have him as a leader on our team!!”

Brian Sim, Transportation Supervisor

“Mrs. Raymond is an outstanding special education co-teacher whose dedication to students is truly unmatched. With over 20 years of service to our district, she brings a wealth of knowledge, patience, and compassion to her work each day. She works tirelessly to ensure that every student feels supported, understood, and capable of success. Mrs. Raymond goes above and beyond to meet individual student needs, collaborates seamlessly with colleagues, and consistently puts students first. Her unwavering commitment, quiet leadership, and genuine care make a lasting difference in the lives of the children she serves and are deeply appreciated by our entire school community.”

Rich Thompson, Veeder Elementary Teacher & Administrative Aide

"Tom and Katelyn spent their summer getting certified at SUNY BROOME to provide Driver's Education to our students this school year. They recently successfully completed teaching their first Driver and Traffic Safety Education course. This accomplishment reflects their dedication to student safety and a commitment to supporting students as they develop critical lifelong skills." 
-Stephanie Luce, CCHS Principal

“I am proud to nominate Joe Willey for this recognition due to his exceptional dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to our district. Joey consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of his role, always willing to help anywhere, at any time, no matter the task. Joey is someone everyone knows and loves. His friendly nature, positive attitude, and genuine care for others make him a familiar and welcome presence in every building. Joey approaches every situation with professionalism, patience, and genuine care. He never hesitates to lend a hand and is known for finding solutions even under the most demanding circumstances. What truly sets Joey apart is his reliability and pride in his work. He doesn't just complete tasks—he ensures the job is done right, safely, and thoroughly. His behind-the-scenes efforts keep our schools running smoothly and create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone. Joey truly exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence, compassion, and dedication. Our district is fortunate to have someone so dependable and selfless.”

Amber Lanigan, Assistant to the Superintendent/District Clerk 

“ Alan often goes above and beyond his duties, working hard to ensure that our schools remain safe, warm and functional for students and staff. Whether it's fixing broken equipment or responding to unexpected issues Alan is always calm and professional. His hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it never goes unnoticed. He greets everyone with a smile, takes pride in his work, and truly cares about our schools. His efforts directly contribute to creating a better learning environment for everyone! Thank you Alan!”

Amy Ogburn, 4th Grade Teacher Saddlewood Elementary

“ Bill did an amazing job facilitating every aspect of the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame event during homecoming weekend. This goes way beyond the event as it takes months and months of organization and planning to pull this great yearly event off. Bill is an amazing employee who oversees the entire athletic program at SC. He puts in countless hours at events not just during the day but nights and weekends. This specific event returns our past stars to speak to our community and our current program about how SC was such an influence in making them who they are. We are very lucky to have Bill as the leader of our districts Athletic program and this is just a small reason why. A quiet leader who sets the bar high for coaches and students.”

Chris Larrabee, School Board Member

“Elizabeth is our fabulous PreK teacher at Shaker Road. She organized a drive to collect personal hygiene items and snacks for military members currently serving overseas. In addition, she works with the Shaker Road students to create a flag composed of hands honoring and thanking veterans in honor of Veteran’s Day.”

Lisa Juliano, Shaker Road Teacher

“Halfway into September our class received a new student. On her first day before homeroom started, she quietly and shyly entered our room. After her and I introduced ourselves to each other and had a brief conversation I showed her to her seat. I carried on preparing for homeroom and class to begin. Amari is usually early to homeroom and always prepared for the day. I eventually notice Amari talking to our new student as if she had already known her. I actually asked, "oh, you know each other?" To which they both replied no. Amari asked if she could walk the new student around to show her where some of her classes were going to be. I was impressed that Amari took the initiative to welcome our new student and be so helpful! To me, this is without a doubt what being part of the pack means and building a strong community!”

Lindsay Gorman, CCHS Science Teacher

“On Monday October 6th, while parked at SCMS in the morning, Chris was notified of a medical emergency on his bus. Chris immediately identified the issue and radioed into the Transportation Department office that he needed help. Colonie PD was contacted and an ambulance was dispatched. With the help of SCMS administration, the student was able to get the medical attention they needed. Chris showed a commitment to safety, by quickly identifying the emergency and by swiftly acting upon it. He was able to have the students on his bus safely evacuate the bus via the rear door exit and was able to assist school staff in safely getting the student off the bus. We presented Chris with a safety award, and a South Colonie Transportation Mug today during our NYS Mandated Training for School Bus Drivers during the district Professional Development Day.”

Brian Sim. SCCSD Transportation Director

 

“Kristen is warm face who worked at the high school for 3 years but is now returning to work with Melissa Judge in her new role as the K-12 Humanities Supervisor. Kristen always goes out of her way to help students and colleagues and always does so with a smile. She supports students at events and has always been a safe space for them to go when having a difficult day.”

“Since the construction began at Lisha Kill, Mr. Gibson has played an essential role in helping our staff to navigate the construction and impact on our building. This past weekend, for example, he worked all weekend to help teachers to clean and set up their rooms after the construction was finished. He also works closely with administration and the construction team to ensure he can remain involved and up to date on the work that has been completed. Because of him, staff and students have been able to successfully (and sanely) navigate the challenges that these disruptions have caused.”

Jill Penn, Principal, Lisha Kill Middle School

“Proud of Our Colonie Boys Volleyball Teams As a teacher, parent, and proud Colonie alum, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate our boys volleyball teams—Varsity, JV, and Modified—not just for their performance on the court, but for the character and integrity they consistently display. In the face of tough competition and at times unsportsmanlike behavior from opponents, our players have remained composed, respectful, and focused. They haven’t let taunting or negativity shake who they are. Instead, they’ve continued to play with pride, discipline, and heart—true examples of sportsmanship. What’s equally inspiring is the way our teams support each other. Whether it’s Varsity cheering on Modified or JV hyping up Varsity from the sidelines, the unity across all levels of our program is something special. That kind of support builds a culture that goes beyond wins and losses—it creates lasting pride and lifelong teammates. As an educator, Colonie parent and former Colonie student, I couldn’t be more proud of how these young men are representing our school and community. They are doing it the right way, and they are doing us all proud. Keep it up, boys—you are what Colonie is all about.”

Heather Mikkelsen

“Mr. Wells is our new custodian at Saddlewood and he has gone above and beyond to help everyone the first week of school. He moved filing cabinets, desks, room dividers and much more and that was all just for me!! He has done just as much for anyone who asks and is always so kind!”

Beth Panucci

“Mike worked so hard to make sure that Shaker Road would be as ready as possible for students and staff to return. He worked many extra hours to clean up around the contractors and keep the summer projects moving to the best of his ability. He is an amazing help, and employee who works hard for the betterment of the children and community. Shaker Road and South Colonie is very lucky to have him.”

Emily Kieper