Bestseller focus of staff development initiative
Niskayuna High School faculty read Friedman's World is Flat; discuss effects of globalization on education
One book that has become a “must-read” at Niskayuna High School – at least among all faculty and many staff members – is “The World is Flat” by Thomas Friedman, a New York Times columnist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Associate Principal Shelley Baldwin-Nye said the book is essentially the foundation for a yearlong high school staff development initiative.
In September, administrators introduced the idea. “Response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Baldwin-Nye said. “Everyone has been enthusiastic about the book.”
The best-seller has become a hot topic among educators in Niskayuna and elsewhere. Read more

Operation Safe Stop targets those who illegally pass stopped school buses
It’s a little difficult to miss a large, yellow vehicle with flashing red lights and a stop sign extended from a mechanical arm. But each year some 50,000 motorists in New York ignore the law and drive by school buses that have stopped – red lights flashing – to pick up or drop off children.
That point was made by New York State Trooper Major Gerald Meyer during an October 11 press conference at Niskayuna High School to kickoff this year's Operation Safe Stop.
Sen. Hugh Farley, Executive Director for the New York Association for Pupil Transportation Peter Mannella, Superintendent of Schools Kevin Baughman, transportation directors from other local school districts, Town Supervisor Luke Smith and several law enforcement officers attended the press conference.
On Wednesday, Oct. 12 during Operation Safe Stop, local, regional and state law enforcement agencies will be on the lookout for drivers who ignore the flashing red lights of stopped school buses. Some officers will follow buses, while others will be stationed along routes identified as problem spots.
This annual statewide program is designed to raise awareness among drivers that it is never OK to pass a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children. Read more

Niskayuna school community raises $3,700+ for cancer awareness, research
More than 30 Niskayuna teachers and students braved the autumn chill to raise awareness and raise funds for the American Cancer Society during the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, Oct. 15 in Albany's Washington Park. Together Niskayuna's faculty and students raised $3,730 that will help fund breast cancer awareness, early detection and educational programs, research and patient care services. Some 10,000 walkers participated locally in this nationwide event that raises money to help support the American Cancer Society's mission to fight breast cancer and provide hope to those battling the disease. Thanks to everyone who contributed!

Niskayuna High School senior recognized as one of best young writers in the country
Erin Sherman has received a 2006 National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Award, which honors students for excellent writing.
More than 2,000 students from across the country were nominated by their teachers. Sherman, who was nominated by teacher Russell McDowell, was one of 606 students recognized for her writing talent. A team of English teachers judged Sherman’s prose to be an especially effective and imaginative use of language to inform and move an audience. Congratulations!

Board of Education members recognized for their commitment to Niskayuna schools
To celebrate New York State’s annual School Board Recognition Week, school administrators, students, staff and community members gathered prior to the regular Board of Education meeting on Monday, October 23 to thank the Niskayuna Board of Education for their efforts on behalf of the district’s children. Read more

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