On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, to conclude our speaker series of the female leadership panel, we welcomed Jessica Graham from Infinity Northeast, Inc., Natalie Stetson from the Erie Canal Museum and Maggie Foster of the Mundy branch library. All three speakers provided our 8th and 9th grade girls with personal insight about education, jobs and struggles that led them down their own career paths. The 8th and 9th grade boys met with Vincent Love from 100 Black Men to help them navigate career direction, make goals and work through struggles. We thank all the speakers for their great community support. Go ATOMS! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Saturday, November 10, 2018 the #SASCS Robotics Team attended the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition at the MOST museum. #SASCS entered the tournament with three middle school and nine high school teams. According to their website The Central New York Bridges: Build ’Em and Bust ’Em bridge building competition gives students an opportunity to test their ability in engineering, teamwork, and design. Each team builds a balsa wood bridge to test the strength and durability of their design.

#SASAtoms received the First, Third and Fourth Place in Category 3 and First Place in Category 2 at the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition. We also received the best name award in category 3.

Please congratulate the following students who participated in CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition.

Middle School Teams (Category 2)

First Place — Nevaeh Kelley

High School Teams (Category 3)

First Place — Joseph Capra, Abdullah Cetin, and Jade Regner

Third Place — Betul Bektas and Amina Andelija

Fourth Place — Azamat Karimov and Riley Phuc

Best Name Award — Karl Russo and Benjamin Cameron

"The suspension is killing me."

Special shout out to our 7th grade team for their participation — Morgan Purcell, Yakina Sika and Theodore Simon

Special thanks to Ms. Hahn, Mr. Chad and Mr. Altindis for their tremendous help.

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Saturday, November 10, 2018 the #SASCS Robotics Team attended the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition at the MOST museum. #SASCS entered the tournament with three middle school and nine high school teams. According to their website The Central New York Bridges: Build ’Em and Bust ’Em bridge building competition gives students an opportunity to test their ability in engineering, teamwork, and design. Each team builds a balsa wood bridge to test the strength and durability of their design.

#SASAtoms received the First, Third and Fourth Place in Category 3 and First Place in Category 2 at the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition. We also received the best name award in category 3.

Please congratulate the following students who participated in CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition.

Middle School Teams (Category 2)

First Place — Nevaeh Kelley

High School Teams (Category 3)

First Place — Joseph Capra, Abdullah Cetin, and Jade Regner

Third Place — Betul Bektas and Amina Andelija

Fourth Place — Azamat Karimov and Riley Phuc

Best Name Award — Karl Russo and Benjamin Cameron

"The suspension is killing me."

Special shout out to our 7th grade team for their participation — Morgan Purcell, Yakina Sika and Theodore Simon

Special thanks to Ms. Hahn, Mr. Chad and Mr. Altindis for their tremendous help.

On Saturday, October 14th, 2017, Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School took third place in the third division, and first place in the second division of the third annual CNY Steamboat Challenge, which was held at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology.

A total of 68 students comprising 34 teams participated in the design, build, and compete STEM event. Students built a boat out of recycled materials, including a metal engine that produces stem to propel the boat when heated by a tea light candle. Teams of between one and four students in grades four through 12 raced their boats on 3 inches of water inside 10-foot-long inflatable tracks.

The student STEM competition was divided into three divisions: first division is grades 4-6, second division is grades 7-8, and the third division is grades 9-12.

Winners received a medal and the winners' schools received a plaque.

We competed in the second and third divisions of the competition. The first place winners of the second division were Michael Scheer and Tahirah Abdul-Qadir, from the Syracuse Academy of Science. In the third division, the third place winners were Umesh and Lalita Dahal, from the Syracuse Academy of Science.

CNY Steamboat Challenge is organized by the Central New York Chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and sponsored by the MOST and OBG. Support is provided by Lockheed Martin, NASA, Syracuse University's College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Technology Alliance of Central New York (TACNY), and Carrier.

#SASCS #SASAtoms #MOST #Steamboat #SteamboatChallenge

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Wednesday, October 5th, 2016 during first period, SAS Middle School participated in a class meeting revolving around the word "empathy". Students discussed with teachers and classmates what the definition of empathy is and what it means to them. They also reflected on times where they had someone treat them with empathy and when they have been empathetic to another individual. Lastly there was a discussion on when and who it is more difficult to show empathy for and why. This was the beginning of monthly meetings on anti-bullying topics.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Friday, October 21st, 2016, the SAS Middle School hosted a Girl's Empowerment Night. Fifth, sixth, and seventh grade girls came out to learn how to be strong, confident young women, to empower themselves, and each other, and to enjoy a night of fun activities. Among the activities included, dinner, pillow case decorating, nail painting, make-up, games, dancing, singing, and a movie with popcorn. Additionally, two guest speakers came to inspire our female students, Ms. Diamond from the Boys and Girls Club, and Ms. Pearl from McMahon/ Ryan Child Advocacy Center. Thank you to all that volunteered to make this amazing event happen!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Friday, September 22nd, our high school was visited by a group of athletes who are part of a leadership council at Syracuse University. Mr. Mark Trumbo, Syracuse University's Student-Athlete Engagement Coordinator, was accompanied by Alana O’Neill and Maddie Pack from the women’s soccer team; Hannah Dossett, Alexa Romero, and Samantha Fernandez from the women’s softball team; and Marcus Cunningham, David Lipka, and Stephen Rehfuss from the men’s lacrosse team. Mr. Trumbo and the athletes spent a few hours engaging groups of students in an interactive dialogue regarding the topics of leadership, accountability, responsibility, and various aspects of college life. Their message to our student body was inspiring, and the experience was a great way for our students to begin the new school year!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, February 17th, 2017 the SAS Middle School held its Black History Month and January Student of the Month Assembly. The event was kicked off by the wonderful projects of our students. Volunteer presenters included 7th graders who dressed up as many of the iconic individuals who have furthered the cause of African Americans in this country. Students represented and presented on Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Jackie Robinson, and more! Our wonderful 5th graders also presented their research. Amazing individuals such as Former President Barack Obama, Syracuse Chief of Police Frank Fowler, Pele, Maya Angelou, and others were highlighted in the 5th grade. Following these students, the various Student of the Month awards were presented. These awards are given to students for their all-around excellence in academics and/or citizenship. We are proud of the work that our ATOMS are accomplishing in the second half of the school year. Keep up the great work!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #BlackHistoryMonth #BHM

Monday, March 19, 2018 was a special day at Syracuse Academy of Science for Lady Atoms Basketball Team. Whole school came together in the morning to celebrate these special student-athletes. The team accomplish a lot this year by winning the girls basketball program`s first Section III, Regional, and State Finalist Titles.

Athletic Department and the Lady Atoms thank a lot for the support we received from administration, staff, and students. Special thanks go to Coach Reginald Pickard and Donniesha Terry for their hard work and dedication.

2017-18 #SASCS Girls Varsity Basketball Team Roster

# 1 Lyrik Jackson

#4 Anyiaha Powell

#5 Xyel Bradford

#11 Diamonne Harris

#15 Erykah Pasha

#20 Josette Rowser-Groh

#23 Freey Pleasants

#24 Alexius Pierce

#40 Zion Patterson

2017-18 SAS Girls Varsity Basketball Record

Overall Record 20-5

League Record 12-0

OHSL Patriot National Champions

Class C Sectional Champions

Regional Champions

2017-2018 Class C New York State Champions Finalists

Ranked #2 in New York State

Let`s Goooo #SASAtoms…

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Monday, October 31st, 2016, 6th grade students in Miss Bittel's social studies class participated in a cultural lesson on the art of Salsa dancing. The presentation was given by one of our 6th grade student's parents, Odalas and Alberto Gaskins. The couple showed the students some video clips of professional salsa dancers before performing a couple's dance for the students. After their demonstration, students were taught 2 main salsa dance steps and then spent the remainder of the time dancing the Salsa in the gym!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Sunday, March 26, 2017 SASCS students participated in 38th Central New York Science and Engineering Fair (CNYSEF) today and competed against more than 40 schools and 200 projects. Students are judged by STEM professionals from local businesses and institutions such as Lockheed Martin and Syracuse University.

Our success in this science fair is unique among Syracuse schools as our school received 2 grand prize awards for the first time.

SASCS students from grade 4-12, won 17 (seventeen) awards and scholarship. Based on their performance at CNYSEF, two students (Jamila Eatman (11th grade) and Taha Hayali (6th grade)) won grand prize.

We thank all our students, our teachers and our parents for this success, and we hope to increase our achievements next year. Please congratulate all these students. They had a very long Sunday and they all made us proud.

Grade 5:

Morgan Purcell: High Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 6:

Taha Hayali: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Adam Sheaffer: Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 7:

Naomi Turner Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 11:

Jamila Eatman: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

SPECIAL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS

SUNY Cortland Science Leadership Scholarship ($10,000)—Amela Mujak

IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Sofia Fanizzi

Suny Oswego Genius Olympiad Awards: Jamila Eatman

Terra Science and Education Award: Amela Mujak, Wah Hee Dar, Amina Andelija, Sophia Sheaffer, Sofia Fanizzi, Dionne Delafe, Morgan Purcell, Taha Hayali, Adam Sheaffer, Naomi Turner.

Association for Women geoscientists award: Jamila Eatman

ASU Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives Award: Wah Hee Dar

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award. Sophia Sheaffer

Ricoh Sustainable Development Award Sofia Fanizzi

Stockholm Junior Water Prize—Amina Andelija -eligible to compete in state competition

US Air Force—Amela Mujak, Jamila Eatman

GRAND PRIZES

Broadcom MASTERS: Taha Hayali

New York State Science Congress—Jamila Eatman

#SASAtoms #SASCS #STEM

On Friday, June 10th, 2016 the SAS Middle School celebrated its very first International Day. Twelve teams of students created presentations of various countries and cultures such as Cuba, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and many Native American tribes. Many of our wonderful parent supported the event by bringing in food such as wontons, plantains, rice and beans, and Irish potato pancakes. The event was capped by the wonderful performances of the Talent Club who used their amazing skills to bring French ballet, Spanish music, and African dancing to the event. One of the many aspects that make SAS an amazing school is the many different cultures that we have in our study body. Our differences are what make us strong! Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #InternationalDay

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Sunday, March 26, 2017 SASCS students participated in 38th Central New York Science and Engineering Fair (CNYSEF) today and competed against more than 40 schools and 200 projects. Students are judged by STEM professionals from local businesses and institutions such as Lockheed Martin and Syracuse University.

Our success in this science fair is unique among Syracuse schools as our school received 2 grand prize awards for the first time.

SASCS students from grade 4-12, won 17 (seventeen) awards and scholarship. Based on their performance at CNYSEF, two students (Jamila Eatman (11th grade) and Taha Hayali (6th grade)) won grand prize.

We thank all our students, our teachers and our parents for this success, and we hope to increase our achievements next year. Please congratulate all these students. They had a very long Sunday and they all made us proud.

Grade 5:

Morgan Purcell: High Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 6:

Taha Hayali: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Adam Sheaffer: Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 7:

Naomi Turner Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 11:

Jamila Eatman: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

SPECIAL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS

SUNY Cortland Science Leadership Scholarship ($10,000)—Amela Mujak

IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Sofia Fanizzi

Suny Oswego Genius Olympiad Awards: Jamila Eatman

Terra Science and Education Award: Amela Mujak, Wah Hee Dar, Amina Andelija, Sophia Sheaffer, Sofia Fanizzi, Dionne Delafe, Morgan Purcell, Taha Hayali, Adam Sheaffer, Naomi Turner.

Association for Women geoscientists award: Jamila Eatman

ASU Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives Award: Wah Hee Dar

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award. Sophia Sheaffer

Ricoh Sustainable Development Award Sofia Fanizzi

Stockholm Junior Water Prize—Amina Andelija -eligible to compete in state competition

US Air Force—Amela Mujak, Jamila Eatman

GRAND PRIZES

Broadcom MASTERS: Taha Hayali

New York State Science Congress—Jamila Eatman

#SASAtoms #SASCS #STEM

It was a magic season for the Syracuse Academy of Science girls basketball team.

The #SASAtoms accomplished a lot - winning the program's first Section III title and advancing to the state final four.

SAS missed out on only one goal, as Section IX champion Millbrook bested the Atoms, 67-64, in overtime in the Class C state championship game at Hudson Valley Community College.

"We came up short, but we accomplished a whole lot," #SASCS coach Reggie Pickard said after his team came out on the short end of the 4-minute extra session, during which the Atoms led three times before surrendering the final four points. "Overtime game, we lost to a great team, a well-coached team."

SAS, who finish 19-5, lost despite a determined effort from senior Lyrik Jackson, who led the Atoms with 24 points and 15 rebounds, and junior Diamonne Harris, who added 23 points.

"She made a big difference," Pickard said.

Millbrook led the whole way, until there was just one minute left in regulation. A basket by Jackson tied the game at 54-54.

The Blazers pushed the lead back to four points with 34 seconds left, but SAS got a pair of free throws from Jackson to pull within two and 6-0 sophomore Erykah Pasha sent the game into overtime by converting two free throws with no time left on the clock after she was fouled on a put back attempt at the buzzer.

The Atoms led three times in the extra session - 60-59, 62-61 and 64-63 - before the Blazers got their final points from reserve junior forward Claire Martell, who hit a basket and two free throws in the final 45 seconds.

Pickard said he told his players to keep their heads high.

"I just told them they had no reason to hang their heads," said Pickard, who started the varsity program at SAS in 2010. "We set a goal at the beginning of the season. We reached our goal, but we just came up short."

Pickard said his all-state senior, Jackson, was all heart.

"She played hurt. She twisted her ankle early on. Her shoulder was still sore from the fall yesterday. She was banged up. But she gave it her all. She gave it her heart," he said.

The coach said he hoped the Atoms would be back, albeit probably in a higher classification. Nearly everyone associated with Section III basketball expects that SAS will be moved up in class by the competition committee.

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252830500078...

On Thursday, June 16th, 2016 sixty students from the SAS Middle School took a year-ending field trip to the Seabreeze Waterpark in Rochester, New York. Students were able to cut loose enjoy the many attractions, food options, and their wonderful friends. A great day of weather allowed students to have a wonderful field trip to cap of their year. Thank you to all staff and parents that chaperoned the event!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #seabreezepark @seabreezepark

On Sunday, March 26, 2017 SASCS students participated in 38th Central New York Science and Engineering Fair (CNYSEF) today and competed against more than 40 schools and 200 projects. Students are judged by STEM professionals from local businesses and institutions such as Lockheed Martin and Syracuse University.

Our success in this science fair is unique among Syracuse schools as our school received 2 grand prize awards for the first time.

SASCS students from grade 4-12, won 17 (seventeen) awards and scholarship. Based on their performance at CNYSEF, two students (Jamila Eatman (11th grade) and Taha Hayali (6th grade)) won grand prize.

We thank all our students, our teachers and our parents for this success, and we hope to increase our achievements next year. Please congratulate all these students. They had a very long Sunday and they all made us proud.

Grade 5:

Morgan Purcell: High Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 6:

Taha Hayali: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Adam Sheaffer: Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 7:

Naomi Turner Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 11:

Jamila Eatman: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

SPECIAL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS

SUNY Cortland Science Leadership Scholarship ($10,000)—Amela Mujak

IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Sofia Fanizzi

Suny Oswego Genius Olympiad Awards: Jamila Eatman

Terra Science and Education Award: Amela Mujak, Wah Hee Dar, Amina Andelija, Sophia Sheaffer, Sofia Fanizzi, Dionne Delafe, Morgan Purcell, Taha Hayali, Adam Sheaffer, Naomi Turner.

Association for Women geoscientists award: Jamila Eatman

ASU Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives Award: Wah Hee Dar

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award. Sophia Sheaffer

Ricoh Sustainable Development Award Sofia Fanizzi

Stockholm Junior Water Prize—Amina Andelija -eligible to compete in state competition

US Air Force—Amela Mujak, Jamila Eatman

GRAND PRIZES

Broadcom MASTERS: Taha Hayali

New York State Science Congress—Jamila Eatman

#SASAtoms #SASCS #STEM

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Thursday, June 21, 2018, the Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School celebrated it's twelfth annual commencement at the Crouse Hinds Theatre Civic Center in Syracuse, New York. The keynote speaker was Jennifer Sanders, award-winning news anchor for News Channel 9. Sanders touched on the importance of surrounding yourself with those who will elevate you and help you find a way to achieve your dreams. Congratulations to the #SASCS Class of 2018, and Go Atoms! #SASAtoms

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Friday, October 28th, fourth grade students participated in a field trip to Chittenango’s interactive zoo, The Wild. Students were presented with the unique opportunity to connect our classroom learning about animal adaptations with animals in the real world. We observed the feeding behavior of lions and tigers. Students were able to touch and feed a camel and discuss the adaptations we had previously learned about in class. Feeding the giraffe carrots was one of the highlights of our trip! Everyone loved the baby snow leopards. Students asked a variety of insightful questions and learned about the leopards' behavioral and physical adaptations.

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Saturday, November 10, 2018 the #SASCS Robotics Team attended the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition at the MOST museum. #SASCS entered the tournament with three middle school and nine high school teams. According to their website The Central New York Bridges: Build ’Em and Bust ’Em bridge building competition gives students an opportunity to test their ability in engineering, teamwork, and design. Each team builds a balsa wood bridge to test the strength and durability of their design.

#SASAtoms received the First, Third and Fourth Place in Category 3 and First Place in Category 2 at the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition. We also received the best name award in category 3.

Please congratulate the following students who participated in CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition.

Middle School Teams (Category 2)

First Place — Nevaeh Kelley

High School Teams (Category 3)

First Place — Joseph Capra, Abdullah Cetin, and Jade Regner

Third Place — Betul Bektas and Amina Andelija

Fourth Place — Azamat Karimov and Riley Phuc

Best Name Award — Karl Russo and Benjamin Cameron

"The suspension is killing me."

Special shout out to our 7th grade team for their participation — Morgan Purcell, Yakina Sika and Theodore Simon

Special thanks to Ms. Hahn, Mr. Chad and Mr. Altindis for their tremendous help.

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

It was a magic season for the Syracuse Academy of Science girls basketball team.

The #SASAtoms accomplished a lot - winning the program's first Section III title and advancing to the state final four.

SAS missed out on only one goal, as Section IX champion Millbrook bested the Atoms, 67-64, in overtime in the Class C state championship game at Hudson Valley Community College.

"We came up short, but we accomplished a whole lot," #SASCS coach Reggie Pickard said after his team came out on the short end of the 4-minute extra session, during which the Atoms led three times before surrendering the final four points. "Overtime game, we lost to a great team, a well-coached team."

SAS, who finish 19-5, lost despite a determined effort from senior Lyrik Jackson, who led the Atoms with 24 points and 15 rebounds, and junior Diamonne Harris, who added 23 points.

"She made a big difference," Pickard said.

Millbrook led the whole way, until there was just one minute left in regulation. A basket by Jackson tied the game at 54-54.

The Blazers pushed the lead back to four points with 34 seconds left, but SAS got a pair of free throws from Jackson to pull within two and 6-0 sophomore Erykah Pasha sent the game into overtime by converting two free throws with no time left on the clock after she was fouled on a put back attempt at the buzzer.

The Atoms led three times in the extra session - 60-59, 62-61 and 64-63 - before the Blazers got their final points from reserve junior forward Claire Martell, who hit a basket and two free throws in the final 45 seconds.

Pickard said he told his players to keep their heads high.

"I just told them they had no reason to hang their heads," said Pickard, who started the varsity program at SAS in 2010. "We set a goal at the beginning of the season. We reached our goal, but we just came up short."

Pickard said his all-state senior, Jackson, was all heart.

"She played hurt. She twisted her ankle early on. Her shoulder was still sore from the fall yesterday. She was banged up. But she gave it her all. She gave it her heart," he said.

The coach said he hoped the Atoms would be back, albeit probably in a higher classification. Nearly everyone associated with Section III basketball expects that SAS will be moved up in class by the competition committee.

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252830500078...

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, June 10th, 2016 the SAS Middle School celebrated its very first International Day. Twelve teams of students created presentations of various countries and cultures such as Cuba, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and many Native American tribes. Many of our wonderful parent supported the event by bringing in food such as wontons, plantains, rice and beans, and Irish potato pancakes. The event was capped by the wonderful performances of the Talent Club who used their amazing skills to bring French ballet, Spanish music, and African dancing to the event. One of the many aspects that make SAS an amazing school is the many different cultures that we have in our study body. Our differences are what make us strong! Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #InternationalDay

On Saturday, September 24th, 2016, all three SAS buildings came together in the high school parking lot for a benefit to help two of our amazing families. The De La Cruz and Bonilla families were victims of a house fire weeks before that claimed most of their possessions. This team effort created a great event that involved a car wash, barbecue, bounce house, bake sale, and more! SAS families from all three buildings helped out and participated in the festivities. An event such as this represents the best qualities of the Syracuse Academy of Science. Students, parent, teachers, and administrators who are here for one common goal, the success of our students and families!

We would like to thank those who donated items, money, and gift cards. We also would like to thank those who volunteered and helped before, during, and after the event. We would not be able to make this day happen without your help.

Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Tuesday, June 21, 2016, Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School held our moving up ceremony for 7th grade students moving on to 8th grade. Mr. Yavuz spoke to the students, parents, and families, encouraging students to pursue their dreams and never give up. Following Mr. Yavuz's words, a video presentation featuring photos from throughout the school year was shown highlighting field trips as well as in class events that the students participated in during the year. As a 7th grade team, the teachers voted for superlative awards for each student, ranging from 'most likely to be found smiling' to 'most likely to one day fight aliens.' These awards were presented to each student along with their Certificate of Completion for finishing their 7th grade studies. Many laughs and cheers were heard as students were surprised with their awards. Each student waited in anticipation to see what their teachers had voted for them. Following the presentation of awards, the entire 7th grade sang 7 Years (originally by Lukas Graham) for their parents, family, and friends. Ms. Jones, ELA teacher for 7th grade, wrapped up the program with some loving words about learning from your past experiences and taking new knowledge forward to make yourself even more successful in the future. Refreshments provided by the HSO were served after as students received flowers, balloons, and gifts from proud family members. Congratulations to our new 8th grade students and best wishes for the future!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #Graduation #7thto8th

On Wednesday, March 8th, 2017, the Middle School held its 2016-2017 Winter Convert & Art Show. Under the direction of Mrs. Christina Cleason, our students came together to put on an amazing musical performance! Our beginner band made their musical debut, sharing two short songs with our audience members, "A Mozart Melody" and "Aura Lee". Our advanced band shared one musical selection titled "More Cowbell". Our theme for this winter's chorus concert was focused on the idea of "Diversity and Acceptance". Our student body came together to celebrate the beauty in our differences and sings songs about overcoming the odds to fulfill your dreams. Our song selections included "Brave" by Sara Bareilles, "You'll Be Okay" by A Great Big World, "The Great Unknown" by Jukebox the Ghost, "Change Your Life" by Little Mix, and "Am I Wrong" by Nico & Vinz. This concert also featured a performance by two of our 6th grade classes, celebrating the culture, music, and customs from Spain. This performance was a part of our year long cultural project designed to help our classrooms become more culturally responsive, assist our students in becoming more accepting of others, and encourage parent and family presence in our school. Overall, our concert was a HUGE success! Our Art students displayed their prowess thanks to the great talents of our Art teacher, Ms. Brett. Students put on a wonderful art exhibition full of lively colors and artistic talent. The students showcased their knowledge of the 7 Elements of Art and the 7 Principles of Design using several techniques such as drawing, painting, print making, paper art, mixed media, and even raw nature. A school wide collaboration drawing that represents both diversity and unity was also on display. We are extremely proud of our student's accomplishments in art and music that are led by these amazing educators! Keep shining bright Atoms!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #MusicConcert #ArtExhibition

On Friday, June 10th, 2016 the SAS Middle School celebrated its very first International Day. Twelve teams of students created presentations of various countries and cultures such as Cuba, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and many Native American tribes. Many of our wonderful parent supported the event by bringing in food such as wontons, plantains, rice and beans, and Irish potato pancakes. The event was capped by the wonderful performances of the Talent Club who used their amazing skills to bring French ballet, Spanish music, and African dancing to the event. One of the many aspects that make SAS an amazing school is the many different cultures that we have in our study body. Our differences are what make us strong! Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #InternationalDay

On December 8th, 2016 the Kindergarteners went to see the ballet, “Dasher’s Magical Gift.” The students were able to experience a live performance up close and personal. This

interactive play taught the students about the true meaning of Christmas: that family and friends are our true gifts that we should cherish. This is a message that we are

constantly trying to convey with our students in the classroom. During the play, the students saw comical penguins, friendly reindeer, hardworking elves, and Santa Clause

himself. In each of the Kindergarten classrooms, we are learning about holidays around the world. Not only was this ballet about Christmas, which is widely celebrated in the

United States, but during the play, one of the main characters said, “Merry Christmas! And Happy Hanukkah! And Happy Kwanza! And Happy Diwali!” We will be learning about, or have already learned about each of these celebrations from around the world. The children had so much fun, and were so happy and excited that they got to see Santa!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #DashersMagicalGift

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Sunday, March 26, 2017 SASCS students participated in 38th Central New York Science and Engineering Fair (CNYSEF) today and competed against more than 40 schools and 200 projects. Students are judged by STEM professionals from local businesses and institutions such as Lockheed Martin and Syracuse University.

Our success in this science fair is unique among Syracuse schools as our school received 2 grand prize awards for the first time.

SASCS students from grade 4-12, won 17 (seventeen) awards and scholarship. Based on their performance at CNYSEF, two students (Jamila Eatman (11th grade) and Taha Hayali (6th grade)) won grand prize.

We thank all our students, our teachers and our parents for this success, and we hope to increase our achievements next year. Please congratulate all these students. They had a very long Sunday and they all made us proud.

Grade 5:

Morgan Purcell: High Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 6:

Taha Hayali: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Adam Sheaffer: Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 7:

Naomi Turner Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

Grade 11:

Jamila Eatman: Highest Honor CNYSEF Award Medallion

SPECIAL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS

SUNY Cortland Science Leadership Scholarship ($10,000)—Amela Mujak

IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Sofia Fanizzi

Suny Oswego Genius Olympiad Awards: Jamila Eatman

Terra Science and Education Award: Amela Mujak, Wah Hee Dar, Amina Andelija, Sophia Sheaffer, Sofia Fanizzi, Dionne Delafe, Morgan Purcell, Taha Hayali, Adam Sheaffer, Naomi Turner.

Association for Women geoscientists award: Jamila Eatman

ASU Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives Award: Wah Hee Dar

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award. Sophia Sheaffer

Ricoh Sustainable Development Award Sofia Fanizzi

Stockholm Junior Water Prize—Amina Andelija -eligible to compete in state competition

US Air Force—Amela Mujak, Jamila Eatman

GRAND PRIZES

Broadcom MASTERS: Taha Hayali

New York State Science Congress—Jamila Eatman

#SASAtoms #SASCS #STEM

On Friday, June 10th, 2016 the SAS Middle School celebrated its very first International Day. Twelve teams of students created presentations of various countries and cultures such as Cuba, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and many Native American tribes. Many of our wonderful parent supported the event by bringing in food such as wontons, plantains, rice and beans, and Irish potato pancakes. The event was capped by the wonderful performances of the Talent Club who used their amazing skills to bring French ballet, Spanish music, and African dancing to the event. One of the many aspects that make SAS an amazing school is the many different cultures that we have in our study body. Our differences are what make us strong! Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #InternationalDay

On Friday, November 17, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its First Annual Boys’ Empowerment Night. Guest speakers included SU basketball players Eric Devendorf, Dejuan Coleman and Geno Thorpe, plus SU women’s basketball coach Cedric Solice. Our boys were assigned sports teams and followed a full schedule that included activities in a video game room, a board-game room, a photo booth and a basketball game. Coach B. led the boys in a team-building exercise, and later they had a talent show hosted by Mr. Alessi, which included six acts. A highlight of the night was a big basketball game in which all the students played. The empowering night was wrapped up by a speaker who happens to be a member of the SAS staff himself: Mr. Joshua, Assistant Dean of Students at the high school. He gave the boys a great testimony on how to change one’s life for the better. At SAS, the entire student is addressed—both scholar and citizen. Events like this one help our ATOMS grow as positive contributors to society. Thank you to all who helped put this on for our young men!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Tuesday, October 30, The #SASCS Elementary October Student of the Month Ceremony awarded students for their trustworthiness. The students who received this award are honest and lead by example every day in their classrooms.

Our ceremony included dress down passes for students who received the most DOJO's and a fun PBIS game where a student from each kindergarten class dug through a spooky bucket of spaghetti to try and extract as many plastic eyeballs out as they could in 10 seconds. All three kindergarten classes were winners in this game, and earned a dress down pass for their whole class!

Terra Science and Education also joined us for our ceremony and handed out scholarships to our now 4th-grade students who performed at a level 3 or 4 on their New York State assessment. Great job, #SASAtoms!

Celebrating our students is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Saturday, September 24th, 2016, all three SAS buildings came together in the high school parking lot for a benefit to help two of our amazing families. The De La Cruz and Bonilla families were victims of a house fire weeks before that claimed most of their possessions. This team effort created a great event that involved a car wash, barbecue, bounce house, bake sale, and more! SAS families from all three buildings helped out and participated in the festivities. An event such as this represents the best qualities of the Syracuse Academy of Science. Students, parent, teachers, and administrators who are here for one common goal, the success of our students and families!

We would like to thank those who donated items, money, and gift cards. We also would like to thank those who volunteered and helped before, during, and after the event. We would not be able to make this day happen without your help.

Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Thursday, September 8th, 2016, the students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School participated in our Olweus Anti-Bullying Kickoff. This research based program is intended to bring bullying out of the shadows and make it part of a central conversation to improve awareness. Classrooms circulated between three areas, classroom, the cafeteria for a guest speaker, and the gym. First, students participated in a classroom meeting with a team building activity that they roleplayed various situations that were designed to get students to move from being a bullying bystander to helping address and prevent it. In addition, students participated in a t-shirt design contest as they drew logos with anti-bullying messages. Lastly, Students participated in team building activities around the gym designed to build skills in communication, problem solving, and listening. Secondly, we had guest speakers, Jami Ryan and Maureen Foran-Mocete, and their team from the Child Advocacy Center, who presented to each grade level at Syracuse Academy Middle School. Their presentation focused on bullying prevention and how to turn bystanders into upstanders. The scholars were engaged and participated in answering and asking questions. Lastly, grade levels enjoyed different activities in the gym. The first activity focused on communication. Students worked in pairs to give verbal directions to a partner as they draw a simple image. The entire group shared their image to see which pair was able to communicate and recreate the image closest to the actual picture. The following three activities focused on trust, communication, and listening skills. Students work in pairs to guide their partner through a "mine field" while they are blind folded. Students had to get to the other side without hitting any of the items. A variation of this game required students to walk to a location blind folded and retrieve as many items as they could as their partner guided them verbally. Additionally, students worked in teams to get from one end of the gym to the other through a "sea of hot chocolate" as they stepped on "marshmallows". The last station was a photo booth where students formed many group poses with props to help send a "No Bullying" message. Students were good sports and enjoyed working in a variety of groups and pairs

.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

It was a magic season for the Syracuse Academy of Science girls basketball team.

The #SASAtoms accomplished a lot - winning the program's first Section III title and advancing to the state final four.

SAS missed out on only one goal, as Section IX champion Millbrook bested the Atoms, 67-64, in overtime in the Class C state championship game at Hudson Valley Community College.

"We came up short, but we accomplished a whole lot," #SASCS coach Reggie Pickard said after his team came out on the short end of the 4-minute extra session, during which the Atoms led three times before surrendering the final four points. "Overtime game, we lost to a great team, a well-coached team."

SAS, who finish 19-5, lost despite a determined effort from senior Lyrik Jackson, who led the Atoms with 24 points and 15 rebounds, and junior Diamonne Harris, who added 23 points.

"She made a big difference," Pickard said.

Millbrook led the whole way, until there was just one minute left in regulation. A basket by Jackson tied the game at 54-54.

The Blazers pushed the lead back to four points with 34 seconds left, but SAS got a pair of free throws from Jackson to pull within two and 6-0 sophomore Erykah Pasha sent the game into overtime by converting two free throws with no time left on the clock after she was fouled on a put back attempt at the buzzer.

The Atoms led three times in the extra session - 60-59, 62-61 and 64-63 - before the Blazers got their final points from reserve junior forward Claire Martell, who hit a basket and two free throws in the final 45 seconds.

Pickard said he told his players to keep their heads high.

"I just told them they had no reason to hang their heads," said Pickard, who started the varsity program at SAS in 2010. "We set a goal at the beginning of the season. We reached our goal, but we just came up short."

Pickard said his all-state senior, Jackson, was all heart.

"She played hurt. She twisted her ankle early on. Her shoulder was still sore from the fall yesterday. She was banged up. But she gave it her all. She gave it her heart," he said.

The coach said he hoped the Atoms would be back, albeit probably in a higher classification. Nearly everyone associated with Section III basketball expects that SAS will be moved up in class by the competition committee.

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252830500078...