Please click on the link to open Superintendent Dr. Cotto's update for this week: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/o/scsd/page/superintendents-update-june-18-2026
No School and District Offices are closed tomorrow, Friday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth.
No School and District Offices are closed tomorrow, Friday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth.

🎓✨ THE COUNTDOWN IS ON! ✨🎓
Next Thursday, the Schenectady High School Class of 2026 takes the stage at the M&T Bank Center for Graduation Day. We couldn't be prouder of our seniors and can’t wait to celebrate this incredible milestone with all of our families.
🚨 ATTENTION ALL GUESTS: To ensure a smooth, safe, and celebratory day for everyone, there is crucial information you need to know before you go.
Here is what you need to prepare for:
🎟️ Ticket requirements
👜 Strict bag policy & security screening (Guests are strongly encouraged to bring as few items as possible!)
🚗 Parking and venue details
Don't wait until Thursday morning—get all the details and plan your day ahead of time by clicking the link below! 👇
🔗https://www.schenectadyschools.org/o/shs/page/graduation-information-2026
Next Thursday, the Schenectady High School Class of 2026 takes the stage at the M&T Bank Center for Graduation Day. We couldn't be prouder of our seniors and can’t wait to celebrate this incredible milestone with all of our families.
🚨 ATTENTION ALL GUESTS: To ensure a smooth, safe, and celebratory day for everyone, there is crucial information you need to know before you go.
Here is what you need to prepare for:
🎟️ Ticket requirements
👜 Strict bag policy & security screening (Guests are strongly encouraged to bring as few items as possible!)
🚗 Parking and venue details
Don't wait until Thursday morning—get all the details and plan your day ahead of time by clicking the link below! 👇
🔗https://www.schenectadyschools.org/o/shs/page/graduation-information-2026


Employees representing each of our schools and central office were recognized on Wednesday evening with an award for demonstrating their commitment to going the extra mile for our students, families, and school community. The award is given to employees who champion our district's mission through extraordinary selflessness and leadership. These honorees don't just do their jobs they lead with empathy, tackle challenges with a positive attitude, and make a daily, measurable difference in the lives of our students and staff.

🥍 BOYS LACROSSE MINI-CAMP! 🥍
Looking to try a new sport or sharpen your skills this August? Join us for our Boys Lacrosse Mini-Camp! Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a stick for the very first time, all skill levels are welcome.
📅 When: August 3–5
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Mont Pleasant Middle School Turf
👥 Who: Boys in Grades 7–12
❌ No experience necessary!
Check out the flyer below for more information and registration details! ⏬
Looking to try a new sport or sharpen your skills this August? Join us for our Boys Lacrosse Mini-Camp! Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a stick for the very first time, all skill levels are welcome.
📅 When: August 3–5
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Mont Pleasant Middle School Turf
👥 Who: Boys in Grades 7–12
❌ No experience necessary!
Check out the flyer below for more information and registration details! ⏬

Join us for the SchenEquity Community Connects Block Party
Friday, June 19
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
530 Liberty St.
Please join us!
Friday, June 19
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
530 Liberty St.
Please join us!

ALERT
All After-School Activities and Programs held at Zoller School are cancelled today due to a water main break in the community. Water will be shut off at the school. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

This week’s Teacher of the Week is Jamie Levandusky! Jamie has been a 3rd grade teacher at MLK for 3 years. Thank you for your dedication, Jamie!
To learn more about the passionate people in our district and explore our strategic plan, visit this link: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/strategic-plan-2024-2030
#passionatepeople #SCSDstrategicplan ❤️💙
To learn more about the passionate people in our district and explore our strategic plan, visit this link: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/strategic-plan-2024-2030
#passionatepeople #SCSDstrategicplan ❤️💙

Happy Monday, everyone! As we head into the week, we’re looking at the final countdown. It’s the last few days of classes for our high school students and the second-to-last week for our young scholars! Summer is so close, but let’s stay focused. We want to see everyone here every day to celebrate the end of a great year together!
Parents and guardians, if you need support motivating your child to attend school, please reach out to your student’s teacher, counselor, or your school’s attendance specialist. Click the link to learn more about why attendance matters:
https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/projectbehere-attendance-matters
#projectbehere #SchenectadyShowsUp #EveryDayCounts
Parents and guardians, if you need support motivating your child to attend school, please reach out to your student’s teacher, counselor, or your school’s attendance specialist. Click the link to learn more about why attendance matters:
https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/projectbehere-attendance-matters
#projectbehere #SchenectadyShowsUp #EveryDayCounts

We are incredibly proud to announce the Top 10 students of the Class of 2026!
These exceptional (almost)graduates have consistently exceeded expectations, excelled across academic subject areas, and served as vital, productive leaders within our school community. As true role models, they have set a powerful example for their peers and left a lasting impact on our halls.
We congratulate each of them on their incredible accomplishments. Their futures are remarkably bright, and we cannot wait to see the amazing things they will achieve next!
Meet the Class of 2026 Top Scholars:
Dylan Slater – Valedictorian
Nassima Poinsette – Salutatorian
Rose Chance
Stephan Sukar
Silvon Singh
Azara Dobbs
Diane William
Tazkia Moddasser
Pratiksha (Sami) Gangadin
Aiyana Wells
Congratulations to the Top 10! Our entire SCSD community is cheering you on as you take your next steps! #schenectadyrising #top10 ❤️💙
These exceptional (almost)graduates have consistently exceeded expectations, excelled across academic subject areas, and served as vital, productive leaders within our school community. As true role models, they have set a powerful example for their peers and left a lasting impact on our halls.
We congratulate each of them on their incredible accomplishments. Their futures are remarkably bright, and we cannot wait to see the amazing things they will achieve next!
Meet the Class of 2026 Top Scholars:
Dylan Slater – Valedictorian
Nassima Poinsette – Salutatorian
Rose Chance
Stephan Sukar
Silvon Singh
Azara Dobbs
Diane William
Tazkia Moddasser
Pratiksha (Sami) Gangadin
Aiyana Wells
Congratulations to the Top 10! Our entire SCSD community is cheering you on as you take your next steps! #schenectadyrising #top10 ❤️💙

REMINDER
Board of Education Work Session
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
6:30 p.m.
530 Liberty St.
Meeting will be live-streamed.
Board of Education Work Session
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
6:30 p.m.
530 Liberty St.
Meeting will be live-streamed.

Please click on the link to open Superintendent Dr. Cotto's update for the week ending June 12.
Stay cool and have a great weekend.
Stay cool and have a great weekend.

Beat the Heat ☀️
Extreme heat is forecasted for our area. Staying cool isn't just about comfort. It's essential for your health.
If you don't have air conditioning at home, there are designated public spaces you can visit.
Please check on your neighbors. Look out for older adults and those who live alone.
Extreme heat is forecasted for our area. Staying cool isn't just about comfort. It's essential for your health.
If you don't have air conditioning at home, there are designated public spaces you can visit.
Please check on your neighbors. Look out for older adults and those who live alone.

🌮 Lunch Menu Updates 🌮
Click the link to see updates to next week's elementary and middle school lunch menus
https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/2023-menus
Click the link to see updates to next week's elementary and middle school lunch menus
https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/2023-menus

Due to the extreme heat expected, Friday, June 12 will be a half day of school for all students.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities. Dismissal will follow our standard half-day schedule.
As we navigate this period of high temperatures, we urge all families to take the necessary safety precautions:
> Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
>Limit Outdoor Activity: Avoid prolonged outdoor activity, especially during peak heat hours.
> Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help stay cool.
> Vehicle Safety: Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles for any amount of time.
> Check on Loved Ones: Please check in regularly on children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health concerns who may be more vulnerable to the heat.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities. Dismissal will follow our standard half-day schedule.
As we navigate this period of high temperatures, we urge all families to take the necessary safety precautions:
> Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
>Limit Outdoor Activity: Avoid prolonged outdoor activity, especially during peak heat hours.
> Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help stay cool.
> Vehicle Safety: Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles for any amount of time.
> Check on Loved Ones: Please check in regularly on children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health concerns who may be more vulnerable to the heat.

💧 Make a splash this summer🏊♂️✨
Registration is OPEN for our Summer Learn to Swim Classes! This program is a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence, have fun, and learn vital water safety skills.
📋 The Details:
Who: Open to all Schenectady City School District Elementary & Middle School students.
When: 6 weekly sessions to choose from (July 6 – August 14).
Format: Daily 45-minute classes. You pick the week and time slot that works best for your family.
Where: Schenectady High School Pool (Enter through Door 19).
🚨 Important Note for Non-SCSD / South Colonie Families: Openings are prioritized for district students. However, if you are a Schenectady resident whose child attends another school, or a South Colonie family, you can still submit your interes. We will reach out to you if spots remain available after district registration closes.
Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFb6aJ9655_4-HUq9y4WF86ljO4q8xV8Lo3IhounnWuIE_6w/viewform
Registration is OPEN for our Summer Learn to Swim Classes! This program is a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence, have fun, and learn vital water safety skills.
📋 The Details:
Who: Open to all Schenectady City School District Elementary & Middle School students.
When: 6 weekly sessions to choose from (July 6 – August 14).
Format: Daily 45-minute classes. You pick the week and time slot that works best for your family.
Where: Schenectady High School Pool (Enter through Door 19).
🚨 Important Note for Non-SCSD / South Colonie Families: Openings are prioritized for district students. However, if you are a Schenectady resident whose child attends another school, or a South Colonie family, you can still submit your interes. We will reach out to you if spots remain available after district registration closes.
Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFb6aJ9655_4-HUq9y4WF86ljO4q8xV8Lo3IhounnWuIE_6w/viewform

This Saturday: Looking for a fun, meaningful way to connect and give back? Join us for a FREE Creative Movement and Rock Painting Interactive Workshop! Let’s expand our capacity to be in service to our amazing community together.
🗓️ Sat. June 13th | Noon – 2PM at SCSD Family Opportunity Center (1104 Webster St.)
🗓️ Sat. June 13th | Noon – 2PM at SCSD Family Opportunity Center (1104 Webster St.)

Grades 9-12 Summer School: If your student needs or may need summer school, please scan the QR code on this flyer to submit your interest. (Counselor contact info and phone extensions are also found within the form once you scan).
This is the required first step to get your student registered. Once completed, your student's school counselor will reach out to finalize details!
This is the required first step to get your student registered. Once completed, your student's school counselor will reach out to finalize details!

📈 GOOD LUCK, TEAM SCHENECTADY! 🔔💼
We want to wish thebest of luck to our Schenectady High School team, Dubraj Basant, Khareena Girdhari, Lyric Robison, and Marcus Williams, who are competing today in the National JA Stock Market Challenge in Boston. 📊✨
Reaching the national stage is a massive achievement, and we are so incredibly proud of the hard work, sharp financial skills, and dedication this team has shown to get here.
We are rooting for you all the way from home. Trade smart, have fun, and show them what you can do.
#GoPatriots #SchenectadyProud
We want to wish thebest of luck to our Schenectady High School team, Dubraj Basant, Khareena Girdhari, Lyric Robison, and Marcus Williams, who are competing today in the National JA Stock Market Challenge in Boston. 📊✨
Reaching the national stage is a massive achievement, and we are so incredibly proud of the hard work, sharp financial skills, and dedication this team has shown to get here.
We are rooting for you all the way from home. Trade smart, have fun, and show them what you can do.
#GoPatriots #SchenectadyProud


This week’s Teacher of the Week is Sara Russ! Sara has been a 5th grade teacher at MLK for 18 years. Thank you for your dedication, Sara!
To learn more about the passionate people in our district and explore our strategic plan, visit this link: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/strategic-plan-2024-2030
#passionatepeople #SCSDstrategicplan ❤️💙
To learn more about the passionate people in our district and explore our strategic plan, visit this link: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/strategic-plan-2024-2030
#passionatepeople #SCSDstrategicplan ❤️💙

🥍 ⚡️ REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER GIRLS LACROSSE
Registration is OPEN for the SMS Lighting Girls Lacrosse Summer Session
New players welcome!
Who: Girls in Grades K-12
Cost: 100% FREE!
Equipment: Provided!
Click the link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfav6JHvZwXjZWt0r_QovXxnIc9JM840TFnZfeQau46E2OhxQ/viewform?pli=1
Registration is OPEN for the SMS Lighting Girls Lacrosse Summer Session
New players welcome!
Who: Girls in Grades K-12
Cost: 100% FREE!
Equipment: Provided!
Click the link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfav6JHvZwXjZWt0r_QovXxnIc9JM840TFnZfeQau46E2OhxQ/viewform?pli=1

