This past weekend, June 3-5, 22 SAS 7th graders traveled to Philadelphia. As a year-end exploration of topics covered in 7th grade American History, the students visited many historical places. The group, chaperoned by Ms. Patton (social studies), Ms. Chapman (Spanish), and Coach Bahamonde (physical education and health), left for their adventure after school on Friday.

Saturday was the main event for the students, starting with the National Constitution Center. There, students explored constitutional issues of history such as The Civil Rights Movement, The Women’s Rights Movement, Slavery, and equality. Students were able to get involved through interactive exhibits that allowed them to assume the role of a Supreme Court Justice, take the Presidential Oath of Office, and Ask A Senator. In the seasonal Road to the White House exhibit, students were able to follow the campaign trail and hang sticky notes listing what they would do first if they were elected President of the United States. A major hit at the center was Signers Hall, which features life-size bronze statues of the signers of the US Constitution. The students got to see Founding Fathers such as Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton “up close and personal.”

After the National Constitution Center, students walked across the street to see the burial place of Benjamin Franklin. After lunch and some souvenir shopping at the Bourse Building (a historic commodities exchange building from the 1890’s that has been restored to include shops and food stands), students visited the Liberty Bell.

Independence Hall awaited the students next as they took a tour of one of the most important buildings in American History – where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. This tour included visits to the room in which the Constitutional Convention met as well as the building located next door which housed the first US Congress.

From there, the group headed to Reading Terminal Market for dinner, including the chance to get a *real* Philly cheesesteak. After Reading Terminal, the group traveled down Filbert St. to find the Philadelphia Love Statue which is currently located in Dillworth Park. While in the park the students got to see some street entertainers as well – including a soccer ball trick handling demonstration and a small drum corps. From there, it was a trip to the Philadelphia Art Museum to see the Rocky Balboa statue and run up the stairs as he does in the movie. Even after a long day of walking, many of the students made the long trek up the large staircase – laughing the whole time!

Sunday, Valley Forge National Park was on the agenda. The group took the driving tour of the park, stopping at several important sites including the National Arch, George Washington’s Headquarters, and the company cabins. At the cabins, the students met with Camp Follower Jen. Camp Followers were the women and sometimes children that followed the Continental Army and helped with a number of tasks like sewing, cooking, nursing, and other things that were necessary to help the soldiers. She showed the students some Revolutionary Era games and explained how most all game from the time had educational value because most people believed that if you could “trick” children into learning through fun, they would retain the lessons longer. She showed the students a dice game that taught math and a dice game using dice with letters that was similar to Boggle in that you have to make as many words with the letters you have as you can. The students also visited George Washington’s home and headquarters where he stayed during the winter spent at Valley Forge. They also got to see replica cannons and statues or monuments representing the various state militias that were represented in the Continental Army. After hopping on and off the bus for about 90 minutes for the tour and tour stops, it was time for lunch, and then to head home.

Although it was a very long and busy weekend, the students all had a great time, as did the chaperones. They were excited to share their experiences and fun with their family and friends. Many of the students purchased presents for siblings or parents and were excited to share the treasures that they found as well. After a very successful first 7th Grade Philadelphia Field Trip, plans are in the works to make this experience an annual tradition for the 7th graders at the middle school.

#SASAtoms #SASCS #Philadelphia #NationalConstitutionCenter #IndependenceHall #PhiladelphiaArtMuseum #RockyBalboa #ValleyForgeNationalPark #GeorgeWashington

On April 11, 2018, Students were overjoyed to receive encouragement from their buddy classrooms leading up to testing this week. Posters, letters, songs, and coloring pages all made the third and fourth graders feel loved and ready for the days ahead. They appreciated the support form the building, knowing that everyone was rooting for them to try their best!

On Wednesday, April 18, 2018, #SASCS Elementary School had its student of the month ceremony. Our April Student of the Month Character trait was Perseverance. Students who won this month's award These students worked hard and never gave up on achieving success despite how difficult the task at hand was. Great job #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 Thursday, November 29, 2018, #SASCS Middle School hosted their first Teen Center Night of the school year. #SASAtoms spent the evening playing basketball, soccer, video games, watching a movie, or just hanging out. Donations from the event will be provided to families in need within our community. Creating a safe space for our #SASAtoms to relax with their peers is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Tuesday, December 4, 2018, the Syracuse Academy of Science women's basketball teams took on Homer in the #SASCS Lab. Our JV girls played hard, but were overtaken by the Homer squad. The varsity team quickly demonstrated that although it's a new season, these women are still playing as tough as ever and took home the win. Here's to a great season, #SASAtoms.

On Tuesday, November 20, 2018, #SASCS 4th grade #SASAtoms and their families enjoyed the 2nd Annual Cultural Celebration in our cafeteria. At least 15 different family traditions and cultures were represented with a dish. Our cafeteria was full of family and friends as they enjoyed trying dishes from around the globe. Sharing the value of diverse cultures if just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

A battle for glory -- #SASCS JV and Varsity basketball teams played against the #UASCS teams in the first annual SANY Superintendent's game on Wednesday, November 28, 2018. The #SASAtoms finished first after a close JV game. The Varsity game went into overtime, and in the final moments, #UASCS snagged the first annual title and trophy. The trophy will stay with the #UASAtoms until the 2019 rematch. See you next year, Utica.

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, November 15, 2018 our Kindergartners enjoyed a visit from Syracuse Common Councilor Susan Boyle. Ms. Boyle spoke with our students about the importance of voting, and letting your voice be heard. She followed up their conversation with the wonderful story, "Duck For President." #SASAtoms asked her questions about how she got into politics, and how voting works. Thank you Ms. Boyle for your visit and insight! We loved having you!

Connecting our students to community leaders is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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.

Eighth-grader Alexius Pierce made the go-ahead layup in the game's last minute, and junior Diamonne Harris hit four straight free throws in the final 10 seconds as the Syracuse Academy of Science held off Allegany-Limestone, 55-50, in a Class C girls basketball state semifinal at Hudson Valley Community College.

The Section III-champion Atoms (20-4) will play in the 8-year-old program's first state final at 4 p.m. Saturday against Section IX champion Millbrook.

"It feels unbelievable," said Harris, who led all scorers with 20 points. "We worked so hard - day after day - it was all worth it. It feels so good."

"We just willed our way (to the win), said senior leader Lyrik Jackson, who scored 14 points, grabbed eight rebounds and made five steals for the Atoms. "Coach said keep pushing. We didn't want to go home."

SAS, which trailed by six points at the half (32-26) sparked its second-half offense with a pressing defense that forced Allegany-Limestone into 22 turnovers and yielded a dozen steals.

The #SASAtoms also held Gators' star senior center Morgan Davis to 14 points, about five below her season's average. Morgan only had six in the second half.

"Amazing. Just amazing," said #SASCS head coach Reggie Pickard. "I'm still kind of dreaming - like are we here or not, you know? We're doing everything possible to win a championship. We've worked hard for eight years, and here we are."

The Atoms trailed by as many as eight points late in the second quarter but caught the Gators just two minutes into the third using a press that started paying off in turnovers.

"Our pressure has been the key for us all year," Pickard said. "We force turnovers, make the game kind of ugly.

I thought if we pressured a little more in the second half it would harder for them to get the ball to their bigs."

Allegany-Limestone, from Section VI near Olean, still led by two at the start of the fourth quarter, but SAS sophomore Xyel Bradford's 3-pointer put the Atoms ahead, 41-40, with just under 7 minutes left. Pierce hit another huge three with 2:30 left to play that gave SAS a 47-46 advantage.

But the Gators continued to make big baskets, too, and Allegany-Limestone had a 50-49 lead, and the ball, with just under a minute left to play.

On the in-bounds play, Harris dove for a steal and somehow got the ball to Pierce, who drove in for what would turn out to be the winning points, making it 51-50, Atoms.

The Gators began fouling, but Harris proved worthy against the pressure, hitting two sets for free throws in the final eight seconds.

"It was very nerve-wracking, but we do this all of the time in practice," she said. "I have to stay calm."

Allegany-Limestone coach Frank Martin said his team just couldn't quite hold it together in the final minutes against the SAS quickness.

"I'd love to have the last minute and a half back," he said. "We weren't as good as we needed to be to close this game out. We just weren't as good as we needed to be at the end."

The Atoms had a scare in the final seconds when Jackson took a shot to her head when she went down chasing a loose ball and an Allegany-Limestone player fell on top of her. She had to be helped off the court but was up and talking in the aftermath.

Harris said she hoped to go swimming in the hotel pool later in the day, but her coach wasn't hearing it.

No, no. We're not going to do any swimming," he said, laughing. "Too much muscle movement. They got mad at me last night because I took their phones from them. I'm doing that again tonight, too."

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252830500074...

A battle for glory -- #UASCS Men's JV and Varsity basketball teams played against the #SASCS teams in the first annual SANY Superintendent's game on Wednesday, November 28, 2018. The #SASAtoms finished first after a close JV game. The Varsity game went into overtime, and in the final moments #UASCS snagged the first annual title and trophy. The trophy will stay with the #UASAtoms until the 2019 rematch.

Syracuse Academy of Science senior Lyrik Jackson insists that the #SASAtoms are a balanced team, with no superstars.

But the all-state guard looked an awful lot like one midway through the fourth quarter of tonight's girls Class C basketball sectional final at Syracuse University's Carrier Dome.

Little Falls had whittled what once was a 19-point #SASCS lead down to eight points at the end of the third quarter.

Midway through the final quarter, the Mounties were still hanging around - down only 10 and threatening to inch closer.

Jackson went to work. She canned back-to-back 3-pointers on consecutive possessions then, after a basket by fellow senior Diamonne Harris, Jackson scored a breakaway layup to put her team back in control with a 16-point lead and just over a minute left to play.

The fifth-seeded Atoms went on to a 63-42 victory over Little Falls to earn the first girls sectional championship in school history.

"I just said I don't want to go home," said Jackson, who scored a game-high 25 points. "Coach said to just keep playing, keep pushing."

SAS is now 18-4 and advances to state regional play. The Atoms will face the Section IV champion on March 10 at a site in the Syracuse area.

Little Falls, the No. 2 seed, finishes its season at 19-5.

It was a milestone win on a journey for SAS, and its coach, Reggie Pickard, that began in 2010-11 after the school put its first varsity girls team together.

Pickard and assistants Donniesha Terry and Rasheada Caldwell built a solid program that began winning more than it lost in the 2013-14 season.

Getting that championship proved a bit more elusive for the Atoms.

SAS earned berths in the sectional finals the past two years, but lost both times - to Cooperstown in 2015-16 and a three-overtime heart-breaker to Thousand Islands last March.

"We just told them we have to leave everything on the court," Caldwell said. "Just go out and do what we do. We're aggressive. We play hard. The girls really wanted this - especially losing last year."

This time, the Atoms prevailed.

But not before the Mounties from the Center State Conference II made SAS work a little.

Little Falls went on a 13-2 run in the third quarter to shave a 19-point SAS lead to just eight points, 40-32, after three quarters.

"My kids played with a lot of heart," Mounties coach Pam Munger said. "They put it out there in the second half. They could have walked away, they could have said they were done. They battled back. We got it to within eight. We just didn't have enough offense today."

Olivia Langdon scored 15 points to lead Little Falls, which was seeking its sixth sectional title.

SAS got 12 points from eighth-grader Alexius Pierce, Caldwell's daughter, and nine each from sophomores Freey Pleasants and Xyel Bradford.

"My teammates - it's all them," Jackson said. "They knew I was hot and they got me the ball - I've got to give them all the credit."

Despite Jackson's modesty, Caldwell said, she is a special player.

"We have a strong team this year, and all of our players can score," she said. "But Lyrik, she put the team on her back. She carried us. She's just one of those great players"

Pickard, who sent Caldwell out for the post-game interview while he stayed in the locker room for awhile, said it was hard to put his feelings into words.

"I'm overwhelmed," he said. "This is a big win, not just for SAS but for the whole community."

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-6252816500080...

On Tuesday, November 13, 2018, the #SASCS Middle School assembled as a community to celebrate student achievement. #SASAtoms were honored for the following; Demonstrating Citizenship, Most Improved, Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, Student of the Month, Best Academic and our Golden Atom.

We are proud of each of our #SASAtoms and love celebrating their achievements. Together, we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Friday, November 9, 2018, #SASAtoms celebrated their first marking period achievements. Students were awarded for their honor roll and high honor roll status. In addition to our academic victories, #SASCS celebrated our athletics programs as well. We are ready and excited for the upcoming season. Go Atoms!

On Friday, November 2, 2018, The #SASAtoms had a strong showing at the Annual High School Science Fair, showcasing diverse projects from all levels at the High School. Cutting edge research projects from our cooperative summer program with SUNY Oswego were complemented by bold freshman solutions to everyday problems. Keep your eyes peeled for submissions to the 40th annual Central New York Science & Engineering Fair and Genius Olympiad next spring.

Engaging our scholars in meaningful scientific inquiry is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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

Syracuse Academy of Science senior Lyrik Jackson insists that the #SASAtoms are a balanced team, with no superstars.

But the all-state guard looked an awful lot like one midway through the fourth quarter of tonight's girls Class C basketball sectional final at Syracuse University's Carrier Dome.

Little Falls had whittled what once was a 19-point #SASCS lead down to eight points at the end of the third quarter.

Midway through the final quarter, the Mounties were still hanging around - down only 10 and threatening to inch closer.

Jackson went to work. She canned back-to-back 3-pointers on consecutive possessions then, after a basket by fellow senior Diamonne Harris, Jackson scored a breakaway layup to put her team back in control with a 16-point lead and just over a minute left to play.

The fifth-seeded Atoms went on to a 63-42 victory over Little Falls to earn the first girls sectional championship in school history.

"I just said I don't want to go home," said Jackson, who scored a game-high 25 points. "Coach said to just keep playing, keep pushing."

SAS is now 18-4 and advances to state regional play. The Atoms will face the Section IV champion on March 10 at a site in the Syracuse area.

Little Falls, the No. 2 seed, finishes its season at 19-5.

It was a milestone win on a journey for SAS, and its coach, Reggie Pickard, that began in 2010-11 after the school put its first varsity girls team together.

Pickard and assistants Donniesha Terry and Rasheada Caldwell built a solid program that began winning more than it lost in the 2013-14 season.

Getting that championship proved a bit more elusive for the Atoms.

SAS earned berths in the sectional finals the past two years, but lost both times - to Cooperstown in 2015-16 and a three-overtime heart-breaker to Thousand Islands last March.

"We just told them we have to leave everything on the court," Caldwell said. "Just go out and do what we do. We're aggressive. We play hard. The girls really wanted this - especially losing last year."

This time, the Atoms prevailed.

But not before the Mounties from the Center State Conference II made SAS work a little.

Little Falls went on a 13-2 run in the third quarter to shave a 19-point SAS lead to just eight points, 40-32, after three quarters.

"My kids played with a lot of heart," Mounties coach Pam Munger said. "They put it out there in the second half. They could have walked away, they could have said they were done. They battled back. We got it to within eight. We just didn't have enough offense today."

Olivia Langdon scored 15 points to lead Little Falls, which was seeking its sixth sectional title.

SAS got 12 points from eighth-grader Alexius Pierce, Caldwell's daughter, and nine each from sophomores Freey Pleasants and Xyel Bradford.

"My teammates - it's all them," Jackson said. "They knew I was hot and they got me the ball - I've got to give them all the credit."

Despite Jackson's modesty, Caldwell said, she is a special player.

"We have a strong team this year, and all of our players can score," she said. "But Lyrik, she put the team on her back. She carried us. She's just one of those great players"

Pickard, who sent Caldwell out for the post-game interview while he stayed in the locker room for awhile, said it was hard to put his feelings into words.

"I'm overwhelmed," he said. "This is a big win, not just for SAS but for the whole community."

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-6252816500080...

A battle for glory -- #UASCS Men's JV and Varsity basketball teams played against the #SASCS teams in the first annual SANY Superintendent's game on Wednesday, November 28, 2018. The #SASAtoms finished first after a close JV game. The Varsity game went into overtime, and in the final moments #UASCS snagged the first annual title and trophy. The trophy will stay with the #UASAtoms until the 2019 rematch.

On Friday, March 9, 2018, after celebrating Dr. Seuss' birthday in a week-long Read Across America event, students who participated in a reading challenge at SAS Elementary School were recognized and rewarded with certificates and medals at an assembly. Top readers also got a chance to try their hand at pie tossing. The target? Dean Mrs. Smith! What a good sport!

#SASCS #SASAtoms #ReadAcrossAmerica #DrSeuss

#charterschools #charterchampions

On Monday, November 5, 2018, first grade #SASAtoms asked, "How is clay made?" and more while visiting Feats of Clay in Manlius, NY. During their visit our #SASAtoms chose a custom piece of pottery to decorate from options of race cars, emojis, dragons, lizards, snails, puzzle pieces, and more. When selecting the perfect color to paint their pottery, our #SASAtoms learned about mixing colors and why pottery must be glazed before firing. As our first graders expressed themselves creatively, they asked questions about the process. The finished masterpieces will be ready in just a few short weeks! Teaching our #SASAtoms the value of creative expression and scientific inquiry is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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.

The #SASCS mentoring program recruits, trains, and matches high school students to mentor elementary students located at the Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School.

#SASAtom mentors spend at least one hour every two weeks with their student. This relationship helps youth build basic life skills, enhance their self-esteem and gives the youth ongoing encouragement to accomplish long-term goals for both the high school and elementary student.

This program is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Wednesday, October 24, 2018, the #SASCS high school community came together against bullying. Our #SASAtoms wore orange to represent their desire to be UNITED for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion in honor of anti-bullying day.

If you or someone you know is being bullied, reach out to your Dean of Students or a staff member at the school. #SASCS believes that no student should ever experience bullying, and creating a safe learning environment is one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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 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, October 31, 2018, our #SASAtoms celebrated Fall in style. Our #SASCS classrooms were filled with laughter and treats, followed by a costume parade to spooky music around the school for their parents. If students didn't want to participate in the parade, they enjoyed an afternoon of fun in the gym with Mr. Albert! Some classes got a special visit and guest reading from Ms. Georgiadis who dressed as Camilla Cream from the book A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon.

On Friday, April 20, 2018, #SAS high school students kicked off spring break with a talent show and student olympics.

On Thursday, October 25, 2018 the Syracuse Astronomical Society visited the #SASCS fourth graders and did a telescope presentation. #SASAtoms learned about three different types of telescopes, how telescopes can help us see, and how they work. The students had some great questions about how to use them, and what they can tell us about our solar system. Exposure to the sciences at an early age is one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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

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, 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 Monday, 22 and Tuesday, October 23, 2018, #SASCS elementary first graders trekked to Dutch Hill Maple Farms in Tully, NY where #SASAtoms learned about the process of making maple syrup. Students began their morning with a hike up to the sugar maple trees. From there, they learned about tapping trees for sap and were able to explore the machines that help with the syrup making process. The field trip ended with maple syrup and maple cream taste testing, and #SASAtoms were then given a jug of syrup to take home. (Thank you, Dutch Hill!)

Some of the takeaways students had from the field trip were that 6,000 maple trees are used to make syrup per season, and it takes 40 gallons of sap to make only 1 gallon of maple syrup! Teaching our #SASAtoms about the food system is just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Sunday, March 25, 2018, the 39th annual CNY Science and Engineering Fair (#CNYSEF) took place at SRC Arena on the Onondaga Community College campus. Mr Asmus and Mr. Sigindere were at the fair with a group of high school students. Mr Carter also attended the fair with a group of middle school students.

The fair is organized by the MOST and supported by SRC Inc., Lockheed Martin, The Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation, IEEE, Saab Defense and Security, Syracuse University Engineering & Computer Science, and the Technology Alliance of Central New York.

Our students represented our school very well and received number of awards:

Azamat Karimov and Riley Phuc received high honors award and medal in the senior (9-12) division. They also received IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Wah Hee Dar and Moo Ra Say received Terra Science & Education Award.

Jamila Eatman was also at the event with her parent. She received number of awards and prices. She became 1 of 3 finalist in CNYSEF 2018 and will participate at New York State Science Congress in SUNY Buffalo. She received $40k scholarship from SU. Her project received an environmental award from SUNY-ESF, as well as a Chemistry award from CNY section of the American Chemical Society. She received a SUNY Oswego Genius Olympiad Award and was invited to this year's #GENIUS Olympiad. Her project was also selected for Stockholm Junior Water Prize event. #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Friday April 20th, 4th grade took a field trip to Painting With a Twist in Dewitt. We were able to create our own unique masterpieces that correlate with our curriculum in science and social studies. While our paintings dried, we played fun games with our peers. We had a great time getting out some creative energy before Spring Break.

#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, October 16, 2018, second grade #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled day at Golub's Pumpkin Farm. Our #SASCS Scholars learned the responsibilities of running a farm while visiting with the animals and enjoying the pumpkin patch. As a special surprise Golubs had a physics demonstration of using stored energy to launch a projectile without the use of an explosive... ahem, also known as catapulting a pumpkin across the field for us. Go Atoms!

On Thursday, June 14, 2018, the #SASCS Middle School was proud to host NASA Astronaut Dr. Don Thomas with the help of WonderWorks. Dr. Thomas was one of our nation's astronauts and has made several trips to space. He spoke to our students about his experiences in both traveling and working in space. Additionally, he highlighted the dedication and commitment that is required to reach our goals. We were very happy to have him speak to our students to keep their "eyes on the stars"! #SASAtoms #SASCS

Eighth-grader Alexius Pierce made the go-ahead layup in the game's last minute, and junior Diamonne Harris hit four straight free throws in the final 10 seconds as the Syracuse Academy of Science held off Allegany-Limestone, 55-50, in a Class C girls basketball state semifinal at Hudson Valley Community College.

The Section III-champion Atoms (20-4) will play in the 8-year-old program's first state final at 4 p.m. Saturday against Section IX champion Millbrook.

"It feels unbelievable," said Harris, who led all scorers with 20 points. "We worked so hard - day after day - it was all worth it. It feels so good."

"We just willed our way (to the win), said senior leader Lyrik Jackson, who scored 14 points, grabbed eight rebounds and made five steals for the Atoms. "Coach said keep pushing. We didn't want to go home."

SAS, which trailed by six points at the half (32-26) sparked its second-half offense with a pressing defense that forced Allegany-Limestone into 22 turnovers and yielded a dozen steals.

The #SASAtoms also held Gators' star senior center Morgan Davis to 14 points, about five below her season's average. Morgan only had six in the second half.

"Amazing. Just amazing," said #SASCS head coach Reggie Pickard. "I'm still kind of dreaming - like are we here or not, you know? We're doing everything possible to win a championship. We've worked hard for eight years, and here we are."

The Atoms trailed by as many as eight points late in the second quarter but caught the Gators just two minutes into the third using a press that started paying off in turnovers.

"Our pressure has been the key for us all year," Pickard said. "We force turnovers, make the game kind of ugly.

I thought if we pressured a little more in the second half it would harder for them to get the ball to their bigs."

Allegany-Limestone, from Section VI near Olean, still led by two at the start of the fourth quarter, but SAS sophomore Xyel Bradford's 3-pointer put the Atoms ahead, 41-40, with just under 7 minutes left. Pierce hit another huge three with 2:30 left to play that gave SAS a 47-46 advantage.

But the Gators continued to make big baskets, too, and Allegany-Limestone had a 50-49 lead, and the ball, with just under a minute left to play.

On the in-bounds play, Harris dove for a steal and somehow got the ball to Pierce, who drove in for what would turn out to be the winning points, making it 51-50, Atoms.

The Gators began fouling, but Harris proved worthy against the pressure, hitting two sets for free throws in the final eight seconds.

"It was very nerve-wracking, but we do this all of the time in practice," she said. "I have to stay calm."

Allegany-Limestone coach Frank Martin said his team just couldn't quite hold it together in the final minutes against the SAS quickness.

"I'd love to have the last minute and a half back," he said. "We weren't as good as we needed to be to close this game out. We just weren't as good as we needed to be at the end."

The Atoms had a scare in the final seconds when Jackson took a shot to her head when she went down chasing a loose ball and an Allegany-Limestone player fell on top of her. She had to be helped off the court but was up and talking in the aftermath.

Harris said she hoped to go swimming in the hotel pool later in the day, but her coach wasn't hearing it.

No, no. We're not going to do any swimming," he said, laughing. "Too much muscle movement. They got mad at me last night because I took their phones from them. I'm doing that again tonight, too."

Article posted at highschoolsports.syracuse.com/news/article/-7252830500074...

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 Wednesday, May 30, 2018, #SASAtoms and their families enjoyed a Luau themed Reading Night. Activities included: writing sight words in sand, Palm Tree letter sounds, reading by the pool, a board game, crafts, and a fun photo booth. Students enjoyed completing a scavenger hunt. Parents were able to learn about the importance of reading over the summer as well. Did you know your child can lose 22% (approx. 2 levels) of their reading level if they don't read over the summer?! So don't forget to visit your public library this summer! Go Atoms! #SASAtoms #SASCS

On Saturday, June 2, 2018, scholars from #SASCS Middle School brought their amazing skills to the MOST Rocket Challenge. Students from the 5th, 6th and 7th grades prepared a rocket for this competition. #SASAtoms demonstrated their knowledge in rocket parts, designs, and other physics concepts. We highly enjoy this competition and look forward to competing each and every year! Go ATOMS! #SASCS #SASAtoms

On Tuesday, October 23, 2018, #SASAtoms visited the Syracuse University Education Center. Instructors at the Syracuse University Education Center planned several team building activities. Students were paired up and encouraged to work with peers they may often not select. Our #SASCS scholars faced three challenges: cross a "river" with stones that could be moved, but if no one was on them, would wash away; enter a boat that they all had to balance on and then navigate a marble through a maze; and stand on a platform and use two planks to cross to the other platform.

These challenges forced our #SASAtoms to communicate with one another clearly, and without yelling. Team-building exercises help prepare our #SASAtoms to work with all personality types and are just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

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 Thursday, March 29th, 2018 the SAS Middle School held its 4th Annual Staff vs. Student Basketball Game. Students from the 5th, 6th, and 7th grade pitted their youth and speed against the size and experience of the staff members. Although the staff members proved victorious, the game was fun for all participants and spectators. This annual event is a crowd favorite and is a great way for staff and students to bond. Go Atoms! #SASAtoms #SASCS

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 Friday, October 12, 2018, our Kindergartners explored Tim's Pumpkin Patch in Marietta. #SASAtoms toured the farm to learn about the fine operations of a Pumpkin Patch. They also visited the barn to see what types of animals live on a farm. All the kids had a great time picking out their own pumpkin to take home.

On Thursday, October 18, 2018, It was our third grader's turn to Tim's Pumpkin Patch. Despite the chilly weather, our #SASAtoms enjoyed this fun-filled fall activity and even got to take a pumpkin home with them. Their favorite part was the warm cinnamon doughnuts and apple cider with their classmates and teachers. These team building activities are just one of the ways we are building success one ATOM at a time.

On Monday, March 5, 2018, students in the middle school participated in Read Across America to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ (belated) birthday! ELA classes began the day with a read aloud of The Lorax, discussion on the environment, and time to drop everything and read!

In the afternoon, students in each grade rotated among three different stations related to four Dr. Seuss books: Horton Hatches the Egg, The Cat in the Hat, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! and The Lorax. The stations included more reading and writing, STEM activities, and a video with activities about The Lorax. Students left for the day with a “truffula tree seed” in hand and a quote in their minds.

We would like to leave you with one of our favorite quotes that embodies what we hope for our students as they go out into the world, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” –The Lorax

Go ATOMS! #SASAtoms #SASCS #ReadAcrossAmerica #DrSeuss