Iroquois Math Counts team prepares for chapter competition
Iroquois Middle School “mathletes” will compete in the regional chapter Math Counts competition at GE Research and Development Center on Saturday, Feb. 2. Students have spent the past four months preparing—two days a week after school— focusing on individual and group problem solving with their regular coaches Anil Tolpadi, Lembit Salasoo and Anagha Tolpadi. This month, the team began meeting on Saturday afternoons to fine tune their math skills.
The Math Counts Program is a national mathematics enrichment program that culminates in a nationwide competition. GE has generously donated money to support the Iroquois Middle School team for several years, making it possible to purchase Mathcounts workbooks, and to provide certificates and trophies to participating students. For more information about the Math Counts organization visit: www.mathcounts.org.

After capturing in-school geography bees, two Niskayuna middle school students win chance at competing in state Geography Bee
In January, geography bees were held at both Iroquois and Van Antwerp middle schools as part of the Niskayuna school district’s participation in the nationwide National Geography Bee sponsored by the National Geographic Society. Celebrating his third win in a row, Jackson Montryn captured first place at Iroquois Middle School. Jake Lahut took second place. The other eight finalists at Iroquois were Greg Cleveland, Alex Berry, Kate Malcome, Brandon Melius, Nina Kaledin, Ryan Percy, Mia Dirienzo and Tom Testa.
Connor Chapman was champion at Van Antwerp, followed by Sonja Dahl in second place. Other VA finalists were Troy Manchester, Peter Lambert Luke Miller, Aiden Wolfe, Maura Griffith, Swati Mehrotra, Clayton Marr and Chao Xiong. Congratulations to all! More

Local jazz saxophonist headlines Niskayuna Jazz Fest 2008
Saxophonist, composer and educator Lee Russo joined the Niskayuna middle and high school jazz ensembles and Studio Singers for Jazz Fest 2008 on Wednesday, February 6 at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.
Russo has released a new recording, "The Abanaki" with Joe Barna, which has been praised as "jazz without pretensions or compromises," and features Russo's "gorgeous solos that combine a velvet texture with a blade-sharp edge." In addition to being active in the Capital District music scene, Russo teaches in Guilderland schools. Jazz Fest 2008 was sponsored by the Niskayuna Central School District and hosted by the Niskayuna Friends of Music.

3-D art reception rescheduled
The artists' reception for the 3-D High School Regional Exhibit has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 27 from 6:20-7:30 p.m. at Niskayuna High School, and from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Schenectady High School. The reception, originally scheduled for the evening of Feb. 12, was cancelled due to inclement weather.

K-12 Counseling Center launches new electronic newsletter
In February, Niskayuna's counseling staff introduced a new online resource for parents: an electronic newsletter. The e-newsletter will appear under Quick Links on the right side of the district's home page. This new feature will contain articles written or selected by the K-12 counseling department based on trends counselors see at each level. Elementary, middle and high school will each have a page within the newsletter and parents are encouraged to read ahead to help prepare for their child’s upcoming school years. View the new e-newsletter

Parents, community invited to Niskayuna Safe Routes to School workshop on Feb. 27
The Niskayuna Safe Routes committee is co-hosting a workshop to educate Niskayuna residents about the Safe Routes to School Program. Communities across the country are using Safe Routes to School (SR2S) programs to make walking and bicycling safe and appealing ways for children to get to school. The workshop will take place on Feb. 27 from 1-5 p.m. at Van Antwerp Middle School. Registration is required. More information

Schools follow lockout procedures during police search of area
On Thursday afternoon, after receiving reports of suspicious persons in the area, Niskayuna Police Department recommended that Craig Elementary School be placed under lockout. School district officials expanded the lockout to all Niskayuna schools as a precaution.
At 1:30 p.m., after speaking with the police, lockout was lifted at the other schools. Craig Elementary School remained under lockout and was dismissed at approximately 2:55 p.m., under the supervision of Niskayuna Police as a precaution. (posted 2/28/08)

NHS Music Department presents "Pippin"
Special behind-the-scenes tour to be offered on March 1
Told through rock-style songs and Fosse-inspired dance numbers, this coming-of-age story takes us on Pippin’s journey to complete fulfillment. Set in a circus atmosphere, this year’s musical continues a tradition of quality performances by our high school students on stage and off, and again features the talent of one of our elementary school students, as well. Join the Niskayuna High School community for an entertaining and memorable event. Performance and ticket information

Don't miss a behind-the-scenes tour of the NHS production of the hit musical "Pippin" on Saturday, March 1 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
This special package for students ages 6-13 includes:

• An up-close look at our unique set
• A chance to be on-stage in full lights
• Work with cast members and learn a dance from the show
• Visit our make-up and dressing rooms

It will be followed by Matinee Magic in our lobby, which includes face painting and balloon making. Space is limited, so order your backstage pass today!

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