On Friday, December 14, 2018, kindergartners in Ms. Henson and Mr. Scheemaker's Class (KA) had the privilege of participating in a safety lesson taught by experts: two Syracuse City Police Officers. The officers spoke about what they do to help people in need and answered the children’s questions about various safety-related topics, such as crossing the street, driving rules, and how to detect household safety hazards. To show that safety is part of everyday life, the officers read aloud a story titled We Are All Wonders, emphasizing the importance of accepting the differences of others and being kind.

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, students at #SASCS Middle School put on a wonderful art exhibition full of lively colors and artistic talent. Students showcased their knowledge on the 7 Elements of Art, the 7 Principles of Design, and several techniques such as Grid Art, Agamographs, and Perspective Art. A stunning school-wide collaboration drawing of Nelson Mandela was also on exhibit. The dedication to creating meaningful works of art was easy to see and amazing to experience.

Students and their families reaped many books and learning materials at the recent Scholastic Book Fair at SASMS December 7th through December 14th. The school received an added bonus--half of the $1349.00  raised from the event.

On Friday, December 14, 2018, our second graders visited @teamfivestarmartialarts in North Syracuse. #SASAtoms participated in team-building activities, and learned a few martial arts poses and moves. Everyone had a great time, and are looking forward to going back in 2019!

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School students welcomed the holiday season by performing a musical concert. The chorus sang seasonal songs of joy, while students in the Bucket Band performed their very own original piece of music! The Clarinet Ensemble stirred excitement with Feliz Navidad, and the Orchestra had some fun with Jingle Bells. More than half of the band students are new to playing musical instruments this year and all performed wonderfully. Encore!

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, about ten #SASAtoms from the SHEHOOP Club at the high school helped out at the Food Pantry located in the back of the building. Students cleaned, organized, and learned about the valuable role the pantry plays in our community--and the invaluable role of reaching out to people in need. SHEHOOP stands for Students Helping Everyone Handle Outside Opportunities and Priorities. The goal of the club is to provide service opportunities and create mindfulness of each other inside and outside the school building. This was the club's first service opportunity outside the school. Previously, students in the club distributed candy and motivational messages to fellow students in the high school.

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018, Arel Moodie, shared his message with our #SASAtoms. Arel is a bestselling author and has been a featured speaker at the White House and has been acknowledged by President Obama. Arel grew up on welfare in the projects of Brooklyn, NY where he witnessed those around him being murdered and imprisoned. College became his way out and by the time he graduated he was named the most outstanding graduating senior. After college, Arel built a million dollar event production and Education Company while in his 20s and now as a professional speaker, he has spoken to over 500,000 people in 48 states and 5 countries. Visions Federal Credit Union committed to providing Moodie's program completely free of cost to the senior class at #SASCS High School (approx. 60 students). we will be providing each senior with a copy of Arel’s book. The presentation provided students with strategies, techniques, and tips to succeed in school today and every day. 

On Friday, December 7, 2018, the #SASCS High School Art Club visited the Everson Museum of Art for a docent-led tour. It was a marvelous way for students to familiarize themselves with this museum that is celebrating its 50th year anniversary. The painting says "Everson" can you read it?

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018, our fourth-graders received a welcome visit from Pam Brunet, director of Leadership Greater Syracuse. She spoke with our kids about the positive impact the program has on the community, how it matches and links people together to make a difference in their lives, and some of the facilities with which she works. Mrs. Brunet conducted an interactive activity with the students to help them see they each have a special "gift"--a unique attribute they can use to do something nice for another person, to give back what they have received. These Atoms now know--and show--what it means to be a leader!