Starting on Wednesday, November 8th, 2017, the 5th and 6th grade students of the Syracuse Academy of Science had the opportunity of traveling to the Everson Museum of Art, located in downtown Syracuse. The Everson is home to approximately 11,000 works of art such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, videos, graphics, and one of the largest holdings of international ceramics in the nation. The students were broken up into small groups and each group had a docent that took them on a tour of the museum, explaining the artwork and history of each piece Our SAS atoms made us very proud with their knowledge of art, their kindness, and ambition to learn.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

From August 1st to the 5th, 2016 students from SAS enjoyed the SUNY ESF Science Camp. The "Science" stands for Summer Camps Investigating Ecology in Neighborhood and City Environments, Students enjoyed a variety of activities in our city's environment. They took water samples testing for various factors including insect levels and pollutants. Students explored the lake at the Clark Reservation State Park. Samples of the fish popluation were taken at Onondaga Lake Park. The amazing activities concluded at the SUNY ESF campus with solar powered cars to demonstrate the renewable resource that we all need to embrace! Thank you to the counselors for providing our students with a great experience! We will see you next year!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SUNYESF #Science

At the onset of the recent 2nd Annual Jazz Festival, SAS students put on a show of their own. They eagerly displayed some of the mechanical-engineering skills acquired through school courses and clubs centered on STEM and robotics education. Guests at the event had the opportunity to meet students who built their own robots and enthusiastically explained how they function. The fundraiser was a special evening of great food and great music, with dinner by Carrabbas Italian Grill and jazz by world-renowned bass guitarist Gerald Veasley, accompanied by several local musical artists, including vocalist Danielle Evans, saxophonist Malik Clanton, keyboard player Daniel Pugh and drummer Jose Varona. The SAS high school band led the musical portion of the event, with Believer by Imagine Dragons, arranged by Kelly and Carlson, under the direction of music teacher Ms. Lexi Carlson. We thank everyone who made this special event possible—sponsors, parents, students and staff—and we look forward to next year’s event!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science advances to Class C state semifinals with 62-57 win over Bainbridge-Guilford.

It wasn’t easy. But it did feel inevitable.

It took 32 minutes of steely effort, but Syracuse Academy of Science used timely shooting and 20 points from Lyrik Jackson to defeat Bainbridge-Guilford 62-57 on Saturday at the SRC Arena in the Class C regional finals. The win advanced the #SASAtoms into the state semifinals, where they will take on Allegany-Limestone.

“We dug in. We just dug in,” SAS head coach Reginald Pickard said. “We knew that we had it in us we just had to let it come out.”

The Atoms needed all the grit they could muster in the fourth quarter. Trailing 45-44 to start the final frame, SAS put together an 11-2 run to start the fourth, creating a 55-47 advantage. Alexius Pierce, Freey Pleasants and Xyel Bradford all contributed to a run that Jackson capped with a three from the left side.

“That’s what coach teaches us,” Jackson said. “At times like that you can’t feel the pressure, we had to stay calm and be focused. So that’s what we did.”

Bainbridge-Guilford responded with a 8-0 run to even the score at 55, but Jackson, Pierce and Pleasants again combined for a 7-2 run that clinched the five-point win for #SASCS. All in all, the Atoms finished with five players scoring more than five points and three players in double figures.

“We have a great team, and it makes us hard to defend,” Pickard said. “It gives us a balanced attack, and we can spread it out.”

The late run was a product of that depth and a level of resilience after the Atoms had led by as much as nine in the first quarter, only to eventually trail by as much as six in the second.

“It’s a team effort,” Jackson said. “We were flat for a little, and we knew they were a good team. Coach just told us to run, and it was scrappy but it worked out.”

Jackson led the Atoms with 20 points, just missing a double-double with eight rebounds. Pleasants and Pierce added 12 apiece, and Bradford pitched in eight. Abigail Selfridge led all scorers with 23 for Bainbridge-Guilford.

Having unlocked enough of their potential to break into the state semifinals, Pickard said his girls are just getting started.

“Our motto is ‘let me be great.’ It’s about potential,” Pickard said. “It came from one of our coaches who lost her son, he always said, ‘let me be great.’ That’s what we did tonight and what we want to keep doing.”

The Atoms’ next opportunity comes on Friday when they meet Allegany-Limestone. That game is scheduled for an 11:45 a.m. tip at Hudson Valley Community College.

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252828500090...

The character trait for the month of February was Ambition. Several students were recognized for the ambition that they show in school on a daily basis. In addition, the classes with the most DOJOs were able to face off in a competition get all 10 mini marshmallows into a cut using only pencils! These classes received a sports dress down day for their hard work! Congratulations to all students who were recognized-keep up the great work!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, May 11th, 2018, #SASCS middle school held their 3rd Annual International Fair. For three months #SASAtoms developed culturally relevant projects, ranging from researching traditional clothing to cooking an authentic dish. When students learn about cultures from around the world, it widens their worldview and provides an opportunity to explore their differences and similarities. Students and families enjoyed learning about other countries while eating delicious food. Diversity is one of the biggest strengths of the Syracuse Academy of Science. Go Atoms! #SASAtoms #SASCS

On September 19, SASCS high school seniors participated in an information-gathering session with an admissions representative from the four-year liberal arts college located near Rochester, New York. The presentation included information on how to apply to the college, popular areas of study, financial aid, athletics, student activities and requirements for admission to the college. The visit was initiated by the SASCS high school guidance office to help seniors confidently make the transition from high school to college.

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, October 19, 2018, sixth grade #SASAtoms went on a field trip to Howe Caverns. #SASCS students spent their time learning about how the cave system formed millions of years ago, how it was rediscovered, and how it got to be what it is today. The trip included a 90 minute guided tour of the underground cave system and a boat ride. To leave the cave system, #SASAtoms had to traverse through the Winding Way. Both students and staff had a great time on this underground adventure.

On Wednesday, May 23, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its Dean's List Dinner. To qualify, each student had to achieve the high honor roll each of the first three quarters of the school year. We were proud to have over forty students hit this achievement, nearly double of the previous year. With friends and families present, we celebrated their amazing work over dinner. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to next year's group being even larger. Go ATOMS! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss. #SASAtoms and their families competed in a scavenger hunt for prizes while they participated in reader's theater, games, a photo booth, and arts & crafts. A few #SASAtoms dressed as their favorite book character for the night. Our literacy nights encourage reading as a family, and are one of the many ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Friday, January 20th, 2017 the SAS Middle School held its 2nd Quarter Award Ceremony. This is a special event in that staff and students get to celebrate a wide range of accomplishments. Awards including Best Academic, Best Citizen, Student of the Month, and Most Improved were given to deserving students. In addition, the many great students who achieved Honor and High Honor Roll were also recognized. The event was highlighted by a performance by the Middle School Step Team. Events such as this are a celebration of the many accomplishments of our students as they work to accentuate all that SAS stands for!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Sunday, June 11, 2017, Evan O’Neill, a 2nd grade student with Type 1 Diabetes along with his family, friends and PE teacher, Mr. Kiggins, rode their bikes in the CNY Tour de Cure. Along with their ride, teachers from the elementary school including Ms. Peryea, Ms. Gielarowski, Ms. Williams, Ms. Chetwin, Ms. Wicks, Ms. Georgiadis and Mrs. Lattuca volunteered their time manning a rest stop on the 65 and 100 mile route. They themed the rest stop with Dr. Seuss, perfectly relevant for elementary school staff. With the O’Neill team Sugar Blue Eyes, the elementary school raised just over $800 toward the American Diabetes Association in the name of finding a cure as a part of their team total of $3,611! We are so proud of Evan for completing the ten mile ride and enjoyed a beautiful, warm day supporting the riders at Tour de Cure.

#SASCS #SASAtoms #TourdeCure2017

#SASAtoms journeyed to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to observe animals and wildlife in their unique habitats. Despite all the snow, penguins don't make a habit of nesting in the backyards of Syracuse. The zoo exposed students to penguins and other wildlife they would not typically encounter in their daily routines. Zookeepers shared with students how these animals behave and act in the wild. These lessons in wildlife diversity are just one way our #SASAtoms learn about our global environment. Go Atoms!

On Tuesday, February 14th, 2017, the 2nd grade class visited the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus, NY. While there, the students played 4 way tug of war, telephone, soccer, Dodge ball, musical chairs, and much more! The classes had a lot of fun playing with their teachers, friends, and coaches!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #UltimateGoal

On Tuesday, February 14th, 2017, the 2nd grade class visited the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus, NY. While there, the students played 4 way tug of war, telephone, soccer, Dodge ball, musical chairs, and much more! The classes had a lot of fun playing with their teachers, friends, and coaches!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #UltimateGoal

The character trait for the month of February was Ambition. Several students were recognized for the ambition that they show in school on a daily basis. In addition, the classes with the most DOJOs were able to face off in a competition get all 10 mini marshmallows into a cut using only pencils! These classes received a sports dress down day for their hard work! Congratulations to all students who were recognized-keep up the great work!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

Climbing high and sliding fast are easier than ever for students at SASCS Elementary School on South Salina Street, with the addition of a new playground. The colorful equipment echoes the school’s uniform colors and offers more space for free-time adventures than the previous playground, which is still available for students to use. Tall poles capped with palm fronds add a tropical feel to the site, which features plenty of wood chips for safe landings, daring rescues and darting about.

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Wednesday September 6th, Smiling students and eager parents meet enthusiastic teachers for the first time as the beginning of innovative education gets underway at Syracuse Academy of Science and Citizenship Charter School (SASCCS). The K-2 school is dedicated to helping all students reach their potential by laying a strong academic and civic foundation for success in college, career and citizenship in years to come. The road to higher learning starts here, with strong parental involvement and dedicated staff. Ready, set, go!

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday, May 11, 2018, the #SASCS High School held its 2nd Annual Language and Culture Festival. Students developed culturally relevant projects, ranging from researching traditional clothing to cooking an authentic dish. When students learn about cultures from around the world, it widens their worldview and provides an opportunity to explore their differences and similarities. Students and families enjoyed learning about other countries while eating delicious food and watching dancing performances from Samba Laranja, The Syracuse University Brazilian Ensemble, and the Wachewa African Drumming and Dancing team. Go Atoms! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Tuesday March 21st, 2017, the second graders at SAS Elementary were treated to a read aloud done by Ms. Kristina Ferrare, a Forestry Program Specialist from the Cornell Cooperative Exchange. She read the story The Grapes Grow Sweet. The story depicted grapes growing in a vineyard and how the family made grape juice. After getting to ask questions, the students were able to sample grape juice and talk about the similarities and differences between Niagara white grape juice and Concord purple grape juice. Our students are so lucky to get these experiences!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Friday, March 31st, 2017, the SAS Middle School held an award ceremony for the 3rd quarter marking period. This event recognizes the efforts of our amazing students over the last ten weeks. Students were recognized for awards that included Honor & High Honor Roll, Best Citizen, Best Academic, and Student of the Month. Attendees enjoyed a special performance from the Step Team led by Ms. Jones. The event concluded with the presentation of the awards for the Middle School Science Fair and special recognition of students who received awards at the CNY Science and Engineering Fair. We are very proud to recognize the amazing work of our young ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #CNYScienceFair

On Friday, March 31st, 2017, the SAS Middle School held an award ceremony for the 3rd quarter marking period. This event recognizes the efforts of our amazing students over the last ten weeks. Students were recognized for awards that included Honor & High Honor Roll, Best Citizen, Best Academic, and Student of the Month. Attendees enjoyed a special performance from the Step Team led by Ms. Jones. The event concluded with the presentation of the awards for the Middle School Science Fair and special recognition of students who received awards at the CNY Science and Engineering Fair. We are very proud to recognize the amazing work of our young ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #CNYScienceFair

The kindergarten field trip to Billy Beez was a great experience for everyone. It was not only a chance for the students to get a much deserved break from all of their hard work in the classroom, but it was also a great opportunity for the teachers to bond with their students. Everyone was like a kid at Billy Beez – we climbed through tunnels, went down slides, shot basketballs, and cheered each other on. It was amazing to see students encouraging their peers (and their teachers) as they were readying themselves to plunge down the steep slides; a great thing to see as we have been constantly reinforcing turn-taking and positivity in our classrooms. It was a blast!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Monday, November 13, 2017, the 7th grade students took a trip to SUNY ESF. The students went on a tour of the college led by current ESF students. On this tour, students learned about the history of ESF as well as the many programs that they offer. Our students also participated in college based scientific exercises lead by ESF professors. On this college visit, students learned that the sky's the limit, and they can do anything that they put their minds to. “Begin with the end in mind” is our motto in 7th grade. We encourage the students to think about their goals and plan for the future. This trip is an excellent example of that commitment!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SUNYESF

On Monday, November 13, 2017, the 7th grade students took a trip to SUNY ESF. The students went on a tour of the college led by current ESF students. On this tour, students learned about the history of ESF as well as the many programs that they offer. Our students also participated in college based scientific exercises lead by ESF professors. On this college visit, students learned that the sky's the limit, and they can do anything that they put their minds to. “Begin with the end in mind” is our motto in 7th grade. We encourage the students to think about their goals and plan for the future. This trip is an excellent example of that commitment!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SUNYESF

From August 1st to the 5th, 2016 students from SAS enjoyed the SUNY ESF Science Camp. The "Science" stands for Summer Camps Investigating Ecology in Neighborhood and City Environments, Students enjoyed a variety of activities in our city's environment. They took water samples testing for various factors including insect levels and pollutants. Students explored the lake at the Clark Reservation State Park. Samples of the fish popluation were taken at Onondaga Lake Park. The amazing activities concluded at the SUNY ESF campus with solar powered cars to demonstrate the renewable resource that we all need to embrace! Thank you to the counselors for providing our students with a great experience! We will see you next year!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SUNYESF #Science

On May 10th and 11th of 2018, the #SASCS Middle and Elementary schools were proud to host their Annual Muffins for Mom events. These wonderful moments were organized to celebrate the many great female influences that are in our students' lives. In attendance at the middle school were visitors from nearly eighty families. Mothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, and grandmothers all were able to sit and enjoy some delicious muffins and some great conversations. Our elementary students worked hard on decorating their classrooms and making gifts to show their mom how loved and appreciated they are this Mother's day. Moms joined their children in their classroom for a special presentation. It was a fun and loving afternoon for everyone involved. Thank you for all that you do for our students. Go Atoms! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science advances to Class C state semifinals with 62-57 win over Bainbridge-Guilford.

It wasn’t easy. But it did feel inevitable.

It took 32 minutes of steely effort, but Syracuse Academy of Science used timely shooting and 20 points from Lyrik Jackson to defeat Bainbridge-Guilford 62-57 on Saturday at the SRC Arena in the Class C regional finals. The win advanced the #SASAtoms into the state semifinals, where they will take on Allegany-Limestone.

“We dug in. We just dug in,” SAS head coach Reginald Pickard said. “We knew that we had it in us we just had to let it come out.”

The Atoms needed all the grit they could muster in the fourth quarter. Trailing 45-44 to start the final frame, SAS put together an 11-2 run to start the fourth, creating a 55-47 advantage. Alexius Pierce, Freey Pleasants and Xyel Bradford all contributed to a run that Jackson capped with a three from the left side.

“That’s what coach teaches us,” Jackson said. “At times like that you can’t feel the pressure, we had to stay calm and be focused. So that’s what we did.”

Bainbridge-Guilford responded with a 8-0 run to even the score at 55, but Jackson, Pierce and Pleasants again combined for a 7-2 run that clinched the five-point win for #SASCS. All in all, the Atoms finished with five players scoring more than five points and three players in double figures.

“We have a great team, and it makes us hard to defend,” Pickard said. “It gives us a balanced attack, and we can spread it out.”

The late run was a product of that depth and a level of resilience after the Atoms had led by as much as nine in the first quarter, only to eventually trail by as much as six in the second.

“It’s a team effort,” Jackson said. “We were flat for a little, and we knew they were a good team. Coach just told us to run, and it was scrappy but it worked out.”

Jackson led the Atoms with 20 points, just missing a double-double with eight rebounds. Pleasants and Pierce added 12 apiece, and Bradford pitched in eight. Abigail Selfridge led all scorers with 23 for Bainbridge-Guilford.

Having unlocked enough of their potential to break into the state semifinals, Pickard said his girls are just getting started.

“Our motto is ‘let me be great.’ It’s about potential,” Pickard said. “It came from one of our coaches who lost her son, he always said, ‘let me be great.’ That’s what we did tonight and what we want to keep doing.”

The Atoms’ next opportunity comes on Friday when they meet Allegany-Limestone. That game is scheduled for an 11:45 a.m. tip at Hudson Valley Community College.

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252828500090...

In December, first grade spent the day working on team building skills at Ultimate Goal in Marcellus. Students were able to play soccer, dodge ball, rope swing, musical chairs and participate in many other kinesthetic activities on this field trip.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Thursday, June 14, 2018, the #SASCS Middle School held its 2nd annual Donuts for Dad event. The goal of this event is to celebrate the amazing contributions of the fathers and strong role models of our students. Families enjoyed donuts and drinks as well as amazing company. Thank you to all of our role models for all that you do. Go Atoms! #SASAtoms #SASCS

On Tuesday, October 25th, 2016, the 7th grade students of the SAS Middle School attended a field trip at the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus. While there, they practiced a variety of soccer skills including dribbling, scoring, and passing. In addition, students enjoyed a spirited game of dodge ball and tug of war with teachers and the staff of the facility. Thank you to all of the staff and we will see you again in the spring!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Wednesday, May 23, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its Dean's List Dinner. To qualify, each student had to achieve the high honor roll each of the first three quarters of the school year. We were proud to have over forty students hit this achievement, nearly double of the previous year. With friends and families present, we celebrated their amazing work over dinner. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to next year's group being even larger. Go ATOMS! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss. #SASAtoms and their families competed in a scavenger hunt for prizes while they participated in reader's theater, games, a photo booth, and arts & crafts. A few #SASAtoms dressed as their favorite book character for the night. Our literacy nights encourage reading as a family, and are one of the many ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss. #SASAtoms and their families competed in a scavenger hunt for prizes while they participated in reader's theater, games, a photo booth, and arts & crafts. A few #SASAtoms dressed as their favorite book character for the night. Our literacy nights encourage reading as a family, and are one of the many ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Friday, March 3rd, 2017, the SAS Middle School held its Annual Science Fair. This event included grades four through seven. Preparation for this event started in September with the choosing of their topics for their controlled experiment. This event included nearly 300 students across 4 grades with just about every topic imaginable. Special guest judges joined us from the Society of Physics Students at Syracuse University. Parents and families kicked off the event by sharing the fair with their scholar and heard some opening remarks from the event organizer, Mr. Carter. The Science Fair is a demonstration to the STEM education of our students. Many students will be going on from this event to the CNY Science & Engineering Fair on March 26th! Keep up the great work! Go ATOMS!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #ScienceFair

On Tuesday, January 24th 2017, the 7th grade students of the SAS Middle school worked together to create cultural dishes such as sweet potato pie and Baklava. Baklava from turkish culture and sweet potato pie from African american culture. Students enjoyed cultural around the world music as they were preparing their meals to create a culturally fulfilling environment. Students worked together as a team to put together the recipe and create the dishes. For the math component students scaled the recipes down and were able to calculate the recipes in half sizes. Students were very excited and motivated to put their cooking skills to work as well as their ability to calculate and work as a team. This experience was brought to the school by our Culturally Responsive Lesson Program. This program accentuates and celebrates the amazing cultural diversity in our schools.

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Wednesday, October 24, 2018, #SASAtoms toured Fort Rickey Children's Discover Zoo, in Rome, NY. The zoo provided an ice cream cone full of animal food, and #SASAtoms took bits at a time in their hand to feed the deer and sheep through the fence and then fed them the ice cream cone. After stepping into the enclosure, #SASAtoms were able to pet the deer and hug the sheep. Our #SASAtoms were then taken to the dock and were able to feed the fish and ducks, and they loved it!

We then took a wagon ride that drove us around the zoo, where we were able to see all of the animals in their enclosures. After lunch, we were let into the “maternity pen” where the students were able to pet and hold baby goats and their mothers. Following the maternity pen, we went and played in the ball pit. We aren't sure who had more fun, the students or the chaperones! These visits to local zoo's help expose our #SASAtoms to diverse wildlife and are just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Wednesday, January 10th, 2017, the elementary school held a workshop for each grade level during Specials time in the gymnasium. The workshop was a multi-sensory lesson on African culture through dance, drum music and stories. Students especially enjoyed the hands-on learning of drumming techniques and dance and their importance in African culture.

#SASCS #SASAtoms

On Wednesday, October 26, 2016 the 6th grade students of the SAS Middle School attended a field trip at the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus. While there, they practiced a variety of soccer skills including dribbling, scoring, and passing. In addition, students enjoyed a spirited game of dodge ball and tug of war with teachers and the staff of the facility. Thank you to all of the staff and we will see you again in the spring!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Tuesday, October 25th, 2016, the 7th grade students of the SAS Middle School attended a field trip at the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus. While there, they practiced a variety of soccer skills including dribbling, scoring, and passing. In addition, students enjoyed a spirited game of dodge ball and tug of war with teachers and the staff of the facility. Thank you to all of the staff and we will see you again in the spring!

#SASAtoms #SASCS

On Monday, May 7th, 2018 the #UASCS Living Environment classes visited The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, New York. The Center’s mission is to invite people from all over the world to experience and learn about the Adirondack Park, the ecosystem and habitat. The goal is to educate adults and students about the native animals and climate of the region and to help instill a sense of respect and responsibility for the natural world. Go Atoms! #SASAtoms

On Thursday, September 27, 2018, the #SASCS Elementary school held its Olweus kick-off. Students have been learning about our Olweus program which is a school-wide anti-bullying initiative. Students participated in grade-level team building activities, had their faces painted, and even shared their silly side with the props at the photo booth. #SASAtoms signed the Olweus Pledge which will be hanging in our hallway for students to have a daily reminder to be respectful, prepared, safe, ready and responsible.

On Tuesday, June 14th, 2016 our middle school students, under the direction of Ms. Christina Farruggio, came together to share a wonderful evening of music with their family members. Our theme for our spring concert centered around looking toward a brighter tomorrow, emphasizing the idea that our students have bright futures, with all the world has to offer right at their fingertips. Our ATOMS showcased their talent through a spirited performance and all who attended thoroughly enjoyed the evening!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SpringConcert

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss. #SASAtoms and their families competed in a scavenger hunt for prizes while they participated in reader's theater, games, a photo booth, and arts & crafts. A few #SASAtoms dressed as their favorite book character for the night. Our literacy nights encourage reading as a family, and are one of the many ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss. #SASAtoms and their families competed in a scavenger hunt for prizes while they participated in reader's theater, games, a photo booth, and arts & crafts. A few #SASAtoms dressed as their favorite book character for the night. Our literacy nights encourage reading as a family, and are one of the many ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Monday, November 13, 2017, the 7th grade students took a trip to SUNY ESF. The students went on a tour of the college led by current ESF students. On this tour, students learned about the history of ESF as well as the many programs that they offer. Our students also participated in college based scientific exercises lead by ESF professors. On this college visit, students learned that the sky's the limit, and they can do anything that they put their minds to. “Begin with the end in mind” is our motto in 7th grade. We encourage the students to think about their goals and plan for the future. This trip is an excellent example of that commitment!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #SUNYESF

On Thursday, December 1st, 2016 State Senator John DeFrancisco visited the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School. The senator has served the people of New York State with distinction for over twenty years. He has championed different causes that are important to the people of Central New York. Over his tenure, he has introduced legislation that helped to address crime, job creation, and the reduction of taxes. In addition, he is a supporter of both our school and charter schools in general as he was influential in the opening of our sister school next year, the Syracuse Academy of Science and Citizenship School. Before speaking to the students, he received a tour of the middle school as this was his first visit. With the students, he brought a message of C.A.R.E. The acronym stands for Character, Attitude, Respect, and Excellence. This message of hard work and positive attitude fits right into our mission at SAS, which is to instill these qualities so that our students have the tools they need to succeed in a very complex world. He fielded a number of questions from our students such as “What is your favorite and least favorite part of being a senator?” Students additionally quizzed him about his family, his hobbies, and even his reading interests! Two of our wonderful 5th graders presented thank you cards to the senator on behalf of the entire grade and he brought wonderful books that highlight many key details about our amazing state! Thank you Senator DeFrancisco for taking time from your schedule to support our students!

#SASAtoms #SASCS #JohnDeFrancisco

On Wednesday November 14, 2018, second grade students from #SASCS ventured up the hill to Van Duyn Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. #SASAtoms joined residents from Van Duyn in creating crafts including placemats for Thanksgiving and discussing with residents the things they are thankful for in their lives. Partnering across generations is just one of the ways that we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Thursday, May 31, 2018 #SASCS students who maintained a 3.5 GPA or higher over the course of the marking period were honored at the end of year Dean's List Dinner. The #SASCS Dean, Jeanine Brand, handed out the honors and #SASAtoms and their families celebrated with dinner. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to celebrating even more students next year. Go Atoms! #SASAtoms #SASCS

The kindergarten field trip to Billy Beez was a great experience for everyone. It was not only a chance for the students to get a much deserved break from all of their hard work in the classroom, but it was also a great opportunity for the teachers to bond with their students. Everyone was like a kid at Billy Beez – we climbed through tunnels, went down slides, shot basketballs, and cheered each other on. It was amazing to see students encouraging their peers (and their teachers) as they were readying themselves to plunge down the steep slides; a great thing to see as we have been constantly reinforcing turn-taking and positivity in our classrooms. It was a blast!

#SASAtoms #SASCS