Saturday, February 7th, 2026: The SAS ATOMS Robotics Team showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and perseverance at the Clarkson FTC Qualifier Tournament, held at Clarkson University.

Despite facing extreme winter conditions, the team arrived prepared and focused, ready to compete at a high level. Representing SAS were Samara, Kelaya, Elda, Aamiran, Kevin, Maimuna, Mahir, and Lester, who worked collaboratively through qualification rounds, judging, and the initial phases of competition.

Their dedication and strategic thinking earned the team the role of Alliance Captain during alliance selection—an honor that reflects strong performance and leadership on the competition floor. The ATOMS advanced confidently into the elimination rounds and competed in a closely contested semifinal match, finishing with a narrow score of 115–120.

In addition to their impressive competitive showing, the SAS ATOMS were recognized with Second Place for the Connect Award, highlighting their outstanding outreach, collaboration, and engagement within the robotics community.

We extend a special thank you to Robotics Coach Mr. Kovar for his dedication, leadership, and support throughout the tournament, including safely transporting the team to and from Clarkson University.

The SAS ATOMS Robotics Team is now preparing for their next challenge—the FTC Championship Tournament, which will take place at Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) on March 7–8. We are incredibly proud of our scholars and look forward to cheering them on as they continue to represent SAS with excellence and ATOM pride.

Monday, February 9th, 2026: Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon visited Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School as part of our Career Series!

His visit began with a tour of the building led by our Student Ambassadors, followed by a discussion with a larger group of students. During the conversation, County Executive McMahon shared the responsibilities of his role, explained the different branches of government, and discussed where his position fits within them.

Our SAS Atoms asked thoughtful questions about how he manages people and budgets, as well as what he enjoys most about his job. He shared that his favorite part is being out in the community and spending time with people. County Executive McMahon also spoke about the many career opportunities available to students who work hard and stay focused, and he invited them to visit the aquarium when it opens this summer.

Thank you, County Executive McMahon, for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with and inspire our scholars!

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Friday, February 6th, 2026: Syracuse Academy of Science scholars took learning beyond the classroom with a hands-on visit to Crouse Health's Hospital Land! Watch the full field trip experience on our YouTube channel to see how students explored healthcare careers in action.

Tuesday, January 20th, 2026: Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary students proudly dressed in outfits and uniforms representing the careers they hope to pursue, each complete with a special nametag sharing their aspirations. Our hallways were filled with future zookeepers, artists, athletes, firefighters, doctors, police officers, and hair stylists.

We even spotted a few aspiring educators ready to step into the roles of current SAS staff members!

Atoms had a wonderful time celebrating their dreams and imagining the many paths their futures may hold during this fun and meaningful dress-up day.

Wednesday, January 28th, 2026: Syracuse Academy of Science proudly celebrates the academic success of its Early College students who earned recognition at Onondaga Community College during the Fall 2025 semester. SAS scholars achieved placement on the President’s and Provost’s Lists, demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to their studies.

Participation in the Early College program provides SAS students with the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school, helping them gain confidence, experience, and momentum as they prepare for postsecondary education. These accomplishments highlight the dedication of our students and the rigorous academic expectations upheld at Syracuse Academy of Science.

SAS is grateful to Onondaga Community College for its partnership and continued support in providing meaningful college-access opportunities that help students save time, reduce tuition costs, and move confidently toward their future goals.

Friday, January 30th, 2026: Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School proudly celebrated National School Choice Week by highlighting the importance of educational opportunity and choice. Throughout the week, students and staff showed their school pride by wearing yellow, the official color of School Choice Week, to represent their commitment to learning and the power of choosing a school that best fits their needs.

The celebration served as a reminder of SAS’s mission to provide a high-quality, student-centered education that prepares scholars for college, career, and citizenship. By participating in School Choice Week, the SAS community joined schools across the country in recognizing the value of options that empower families and support student success.

Seeing classrooms and hallways filled with yellow reflected the strong sense of unity, pride, and shared purpose among students and staff. Syracuse Academy of Science remains committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment where scholars are supported, challenged, and given opportunities to thrive.

Saturday, January 17th, 2026: Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School students recently participated in a VEX IQ Robotics competition, offering an engaging, hands-on STEM learning experience. The event challenged students to apply their knowledge of programming, design, and engineering to solve complex problems in a competitive setting.

Throughout the competition, students collaborated closely with their peers, strengthening teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By designing, building, and programming their robots, students gained valuable experience applying classroom learning to real-world engineering challenges.

Participation in the VEX IQ Robotics competition supports SAS’s commitment to STEM education and experiential learning. Opportunities like this allow students to explore interests in robotics and engineering while developing critical skills that prepare them for future academic and career pathways.

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026: During College & Career Week at Syracuse Academy of Science, Kindergarten students were excited to welcome Savannah Kraus, Recreation Supervisor for the Town of Camillus Parks & Recreation. Ms. Kraus shared insight into her role and discussed how she helps plan summer camps and holiday break field trips, collaborates with local coaches, prepares for hockey season at the community ice rink, and supports the management of local parks.

Through her visit, students learned how recreation and public service careers combine fun, teamwork, and community engagement. The experience helped students understand how individuals in public service roles work together to create safe, enjoyable spaces and programs for the community, fostering early-career awareness and real-world connections.

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026: During College & Career Week at Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School, students welcomed civil engineer and bridge inspector Garner Sammons for a real-world learning experience connected to STEM education. Mr. Sammons shared insight into his career in engineering and explained how he inspects bridges to ensure they are safe, functional, and reliable for everyday use.

The presentation highlighted key STEM concepts, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and the application of math and science in real-life situations. Students learned how engineers collaborate, analyze data, and use engineering practices to address complex challenges and protect public safety.

This visit supported College & Career Week goals by exposing students to career pathways in STEM fields and helping them understand how classroom learning connects to future careers. Experiences like this encourage curiosity, strengthen career awareness, and inspire students to explore professions that contribute to strong, safe communities.

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026: During College & Career Week at Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School, second-grade students were inspired by local author Sharswayla Bonilla, who shared her journey as a writer and the process behind creating her children’s book, Renee’s Big Bike Ride. The story celebrates perseverance and the excitement of learning something new, encouraging young readers to keep trying even when challenges arise.

Through her visit, students gained insight into the writing process and the importance of determination, while also strengthening their connection to reading and storytelling. The experience sparked creativity and reinforced students' love of reading.