Dear South Glens Falls Central School District Community,

State of the District: January 2026

As we begin a new calendar year, I’m pleased to share the State of the District—a reflection of the progress we’ve made, the challenges we’ve faced, and the shared commitment to excellence that continues to define our schools.

Throughout the past year, our students have demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, adapting to new learning environments and rising to meet high expectations. Our educators have responded with creativity, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to student success. And our support staff has worked behind the scenes to ensure our schools remain safe, welcoming, and well-equipped for learning.

One of the most impactful initiatives underway is Portrait of a Bulldog, which began in 2022 and started appearing formally across the district in 2024. This framework outlines six key competencies we believe every student should develop by the time they graduate—skills that will serve them well in college, careers, and life. From critical thinking and collaboration to empathy and adaptability, these traits reflect the values we hold as a district and the aspirations we have for every learner. The countless hours our staff has invested in integrating this vision into classrooms, programs, and culture speak to their deep commitment to preparing students for a successful future.

We also recognize that our progress is made possible through strong partnerships. The support of our families, community members, and local organizations continues to be a cornerstone of our success. Whether through volunteering, attending school events, contributing to district initiatives, or simply cheering on our students, your involvement makes a meaningful difference. Together, we are building a district where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

As we look ahead to the remainder of the school year and beyond, we remain focused on our vision: Creating diverse opportunities with the individual student in mind. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and confident in our ability to meet them—thanks to the strength of our community and the dedication of our team.

Thank you for your continued support of our schools—and most importantly, our students.

Kristine Orr, Superintendent of Schools

To nurture a safe, welcoming learning environment that sparks individual passions, fosters a love of learning, and promotes lifelong success.

Creating diverse opportunities with the individual student in mind.

We believe that we will accomplish our mission and realize our vision if we consistently focus on and model the following core values:

We believe that the skill of adaptable problem-solving is essential to confidently embracing challenges and seeking solutions in situations that are not anticipated.

We believe that critical thinking is essential for fostering the ability to question, analyze, and evaluate information thoughtfully and independently, empowering students to develop problem-solving skills and make well-informed decisions.

We believe that the experience of collaborative learning is important in teaching our students to communicate with one another, while understanding, appreciating, and respecting the perspective and ideas of others.

We believe that responsible citizenship leads to the understanding that our actions impact our lives and the lives of others.

We believe that influential empathy is necessary in supporting the backgrounds and experiences of other people, promoting a sense of belonging, and encouraging our students to contribute to their own growth and the growth of their communities.

We believe that the development of creative innovation allows our students to live and work with visionary skill sets that are adaptable in an ever-changing world.

Priority 1: Academic Excellence

Goal: We will offer diverse learning opportunities that cater to all students through the process of continuous review and improvement.

Priority 2: The Whole Student

Goal: Students will identify how they belong to the school community and be comfortable in expressing their individuality.

Priority 3: Operations

Goal: We will maintain a safe and secure school environment.

In May 2025, South Glens Falls Central School District residents voted on a proposed $74.6 million operating budget for the 2025-26 school year.

• January 2026: Executive Budget Proposal released (anticipated mid-January)

• Jan. 20, Feb. 9, March 23: Board of Education meetings featuring budget presentations by the Assistant Superintendent for Business.

• March 30: Board of Education budget workshop meeting 6:30 p.m. South Glens Falls Senior High School library

• April 1: Legal notice of school budget hearing and budget vote. (Must advertise four times within seven weeks of the vote with first publication at least 45 days before the date of budget vote.)

• April 20: Deadline for submission of petitions for nominations of Board of Education candidates, inform candidates of legal requirements for all candidates for election to the Board of Education. Due by 5 p.m. at District Offices.

• April 20: Final date for budget adoption by the Board of Education (Property Tax Report Card must be submitted to NYSED by the end of the next business day following budget adoption and submitted to newspaper of general circulation), military ballots must be mailed by this date

• April 21: Drawing by District Clerk for determination of candidate ballot order. Held at the District Offices, 42 Merritt Road, Suite 1.

• May 6: Public Budget Hearing and Meet the Candidates Night 6:30 p.m. at the South Glens Falls Senior High School LGI

• May 12: Last Day for absentee ballots to be requested if ballot is to be mailed

• May 4-19: List of residents given absentee ballots available for inspection

• May 18: Last day for absentee ballots to be requested in person

• May 19: Statewide Budget Vote and Board of Education Election Day

• June 16: Statewide Budget Revote Day

• July 1: Implement 2025-26 School Budget

• 65% of SGF varsity student-athletes were NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athletes

• 77% of SGF eligible varsity programs were NYSPHSAA Scholar-Teams (23 of 30)

• Section II champion: Hayden Knapp, Girls Golf

• NYSPHSAA Giant Slalom Girls Champion Shayla Byrne

• 2025 NYSPHSAA Ice Hockey State Championship winners ADK United Hockey Team

• Introduction of Unified Bocce team

The South Glens Falls Central School District was well represented by students who were selected to the following honor ensembles:

• 5 students accepted to the Zone 7 Area All-State Music Festival

• 7 students accepted to All-County Band Festival

• Winner: Collaborative School of the Arts at Proctors High School Musical Theatre Awards:

• Best Musical Tier B

• Outstanding Ensemble

• Brandon Reisner: Spirit of the Theatre award

• Recipient: Best Communities for Music Education District by the NAMM Foundation four years in a row

• Helping Hands Club – Oliver Winch Middle School:

• Collected generous donations from faculty, staff, and students to support local veterans and the VFW.

• National Art Honor Society:

• Twelve South Glens Falls High School students were inducted as members.

• Principal’s Leadership Summit:

• Nine South High students were invited to attend the summit at Schuylerville High School.

• Community Giving:

• SGF student Zane Hrycyszyn collected more than 1,000 toys for the “Toys for Girls & Boys” initiative at the Marine Corps League in Hudson Falls.

• Everybody Reads 2025 – DogTown:

• Inspired by this year’s book selection, students at Harrison Avenue Elementary raised funds for local animal shelters.

• SGF students placed at the 2025 NYS SkillsUSA Regional Competition:

• 1st: Samantha Comiskey – Nurse Assisting – Health Occupations

• 3rd: Kaia Dake – Related Technical Math Small Animal Science

• Ruth Scinto’s Incredible Milestone:

• On August 1, our newest SGF graduate, Ruth Scinto, celebrated her 106th birthday! Ruth received an honorary diploma on July 9 after months of studying with the help of the Tri-County Literacy Center—fulfilling her lifelong dream of graduating high school.

• Literature Comes to Life:

• Oliver W. Winch teachers Victoria Mason and Olivia Sutton partnered with the Glen Drive-In to host a special screening of The Outsiders. Inspired by how deeply students connected with the novel, they created an event that brought together both students and the community.

• SGF Alumni Shine on the Big Screen:

• Graduates Stephen and Chris Phelps and Ryan Scott Fitzgerald were part of the team behind “Anora”, winner of the 2025 Academy Award for Best Picture.

• South High Marathon Dance Success:

• The 2025 South High Marathon Dance raised an incredible $700,528.31, continuing its tradition of supporting local families and organizations.

Our trauma-informed approach provides a critical lens for understanding student behavior. Instead of viewing challenging behaviors as intentional, we recognize them as stress responses—signals that a student may be struggling to regulate emotions or cope with underlying difficulties.

Grounded in research on how trauma impacts the brain and body, this approach helps us create safe, supportive spaces where students and educators can thrive. Key focus areas include:

• Building Strong Relationships: Fostering trust and a sense of security for every student.

• Teaching Emotional Regulation: Modeling healthy strategies for managing big feelings.

• Providing Practical Tools: Helping staff recognize signs of trauma and intervene early.

A trauma-informed approach reduces conflict, promotes empathy, and cultivates calm, connected classrooms—laying the foundation for academic success and emotional well-being.

Our Technology Integration Specialist Janeen Gannon is helping SGF educators bring technology into the classroom in meaningful ways. Through group sessions and one-on-one support, she works with teachers to design lessons that leverage digital tools to enhance learning—not distract from it.

While our district has made great strides in adopting new technologies, we know that staying ahead means addressing challenges like responsible technology use. Technology is a powerful resource, but without guidance, students can misuse it or miss out on developing essential digital citizenship skills.

To meet this need, SGF has introduced Magic School AI tools, which provide:

• Safe, secure AI access for students and staff

• Improved AI literacy through hands-on learning

• Data privacy protection to keep student information secure

By combining innovative tools with expert guidance, the AI Task Force is ensuring SGF students are prepared to use technology responsibly and effectively—skills that will serve them well in school and beyond.

Over the past few years, South Glens Falls Central School District has transformed student support through initiatives funded by the Mental Health Recover from COVID School Program (RECOVS) grant from the New York State Department of Education.

This investment has strengthened mental health programs, expanded restorative practices, and created innovative learning environments that help every student thrive.

Restorative practices—a proven approach that repairs harm, resolves conflicts, and fosters respect—began at the high school and quickly expanded to the middle school. Today, Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs) lead restorative justice and peer mediation efforts across grade levels, ensuring students have the support they need.

• Dedicated Leadership: Trained staff guide restorative practices at both the high school and middle school.

• Updated Codes of Conduct: Policies now emphasize restorative approaches, with elementary schools next in line.

• Time for Connection: Teachers receive substitute coverage to meet regularly with student groups.

• Inclusive Culture: Every student should feel respected, supported, and part of the school community.

We know a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for every student. That’s why we created Support Alternative Learning Environments (SALE)—flexible spaces designed for students with school anxiety, trauma, or other challenges. SALE offers:

• Strong teacher support through virtual or in-person instruction

• Daily access to counseling services

• Regular parent meetings and progress updates

• Our team also works closely with families to address chronic absenteeism.

Professional Development: Empowering Our Educators

The funding has also allowed the South Glens Falls Central School District to invest in comprehensive professional development for teachers and staff. These trainings give our team the tools to:

Identify and respond to student mental health concerns

Provide the right level of support based on individual needs

Build safe, inclusive classrooms where every student can thrive

This training includes restorative practices and community schools programming, equipping educators to meet both academic and social-emotional needs.

Summer at South Glens Falls is all about engagement, creativity, and fun. Since 2021, our Summer Wellness Program has offered students exciting opportunities to explore new interests, build friendships, and stay active outside the classroom.

From arts and athletics to enrichment activities, these programs are designed to keep students connected and inspired all summer long.

Here at SGF, we are committed to ensuring every student can learn and thrive. That’s why we’ve implemented a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)—a year-round framework that combines academic and social-emotional support for all students.

MTSS uses a tiered approach backed by data to match resources to student needs:

• Tier 1: Schoolwide Social Emotional Learning (SEL) delivered by classroom teachers, counselors, and social workers. These universal supports help all students build skills for success.

• Tier 2: Targeted interventions for small groups of students with similar needs. This includes programs like Bridges and connection-based summer activities for K–8 students.

• Tier 3: Intensive, individualized support for students with high needs, including crisis intervention.

• Originally launched at the K–5 level with ESSER funds, MTSS quickly expanded to K–12—because every student deserves the right support at the right time.

The RECOVS Grant has transformed learning and support across our district by investing in people who make the biggest difference—our educators. At the heart of this work are the TOSAs who have strengthened instruction and SEL for all students.

TOSAs serve as instructional coaches and mentors, working side-by-side with classroom teachers to ensure every student receives high-quality, relationship-centered instruction. Their role goes far beyond traditional coaching—they are catalysts for change. Through hands-on classroom modeling, they demonstrate best practices in real time, helping teachers implement new strategies with confidence. They also provide data-informed planning, guiding educators in analyzing student performance to create targeted interventions that meet individual needs.

• Curriculum Support: TOSAs have successfully rolled out new ELA and Math curricula, offering real-time feedback and modeling lessons that engage students and build foundational skills.

• Personalized Instruction: By helping teachers form small, targeted groups based on data, they ensure instruction is tailored to each learner.

• Behavioral and SEL Integration: Beyond academics, TOSAs assist teachers in addressing behavioral challenges and embedding SEL into daily routines, creating classrooms where students feel safe and supported.

• This work is not just about improving instruction—it’s about building a sustainable system of support. By equipping teachers with tools, strategies, and confidence, TOSAs are creating ripple effects that will benefit students for years to come.

To make these improvements sustainable, the grant funded the creation of tangible resources:

Literacy & Character Development: Organized Book Rooms featuring Portrait of a Bulldog traits and CharacterStrong values, making it easy for teachers to integrate character education into daily lessons.

Combating Chronic Absenteeism: Developed a comprehensive toolkit to help teachers identify and address the root causes of absenteeism—because students can’t learn if they aren’t present.

These initiatives go far beyond programs—they represent a deep commitment to every student’s success and well-being. Here at SGF, we’ve been able to transform how we teach, connect, and support students across the district.

By enhancing instruction, expanding social-emotional learning, and introducing innovative supports, we’re meeting students where they are and helping them thrive academically and emotionally. This work isn’t just about improving classroom practices—it’s about creating a school culture where relationships, respect, and care are at the center.

Through professional development, our educators now have the tools to identify mental health concerns early, respond effectively, and build inclusive classrooms where every student feels valued. Restorative practices have strengthened these efforts, fostering trust and accountability while reducing conflict and improving school climate.

The impact extends beyond the school day. Flexible learning environments like SALE provide personalized support for students facing anxiety or trauma, while summer wellness programs keep students engaged and connected year-round. Our Multi-Tiered System of Supports ensures that every student—from those who need universal SEL to those requiring intensive interventions—receives the right help at the right time.

Here at South Glens Falls Central School District, we are building a sustainable framework for success. We’re not just addressing immediate needs—we’re laying the foundation for a future where every student feels safe, supported, and prepared to thrive in school and beyond.

Get ready for one of our community’s most cherished traditions—the South High Marathon Dance (SHMD). The fundraiser will be held from the evening of Friday, March 6 to the evening of Saturday, March 7 at South Glens Falls High School.

Our 2026 Beneficiaries

After reviewing many heartfelt applications, the student committee has selected the following beneficiaries for SHMD 2026:

Families:

• Isaac Amell

• Paul Cianfrocco

• Chris Davies Jr

• Karen Emmons

• Christopher Fowler

• Anne Gates

• Joelle Gifford

• Ryker Goodsell

• Larry Isaac

• Carrie LaNoir

• Gilbert B. Mills, Jr. “Gibby”

• William (Bill) Nace

• Annelies “Poppy” Parkinson

• Logan Quartiers

• Amanda Speciale & Family

• Cheyanne Steves

• Randy Sumner

• Jolene Varney

• Rebekah White- Gorton

• Stephen C. Wolfe

• Gabrielle Wright

Community Organizations:

• Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York

• Ben Osborn Memorial Fund

• Capital Region Toys for Tots

• Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Northeastern New York

• Food for Thought Upstate Inc.

• Goodness Strong Foundation

• Historical Society of Moreau and South Glens Falls

• Ian’s Reach

• Live Like Liv Foundation

• Moreau Emergency Squad, Inc.

• No Empty Bowls

• Rebuilding Together Saratoga County

• Saratoga Center for the Family

• Sleep in Heavenly Peace - NY, Mechanicville Chapter

• Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park

How You Can Help

• Donate: Support a student or the event at www.shmd.org.

• Auction Items: Contribute to the live or silent auction by Feb. 6.

• Attend Fundraisers: Check our website and Facebook for upcoming events.

Event Details

• Friday, March 6: Public viewing 5–10:30 p.m.

• Saturday, March 7: Parents with elementary/middle school students: 8 and 10 a.m. respectively; Public: 11 a.m.

Follow us for updates and live coverage: Website: www.shmd.org | Facebook: South High Marathon Dance Inc. | TikTok: @shmdnow | Instagram: @southhighmarathondance

The vision and mission of the South Glens Falls Central School District define our approach in ensuring that every student is life-ready upon graduation. Whether they are in pursuit of a career, undergoing vocational training, joining the military, or continuing their education at college, we work to ensure that our graduates are equipped to excel in a rapidly changing world. We recognize that we must approach this goal with innovation and creativity, and we pledge to support the individual passions and aspirations of every student.

One key way we uphold this promise is by ensuring that all graduates acquire the skills and attributes detailed in our Portrait of a Bulldog. Our Portrait articulates six competencies that we believe every student should exhibit as they end their journey with us and start to forge their own path toward success.

Our graduates are adaptable problem solvers who can navigate complex situations with flexibility and open-mindedness. They are critical thinkers who understand the bigger picture and make well-informed decisions. As collaborative learners, they work productively within groups, honoring diverse perspectives and resolving conflicts effectively.

We also emphasize the importance of being responsible citizens who act honestly and demonstrate care for themselves and their communities. Our students are empathetic influencers, capable of recognizing and sharing the feelings and experiences of others, responding with compassion and understanding. Lastly, they are creative innovators who think beyond traditional ideas and develop original solutions to problems.

By cultivating these six competencies, we ensure that our graduates are well-equipped to face the challenges of the future and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

Adaptable Problem Solver

An adaptable problem solver considers different points of view and show flexibility and open mindedness when problem solving.

Critical Thinker

A critical thinker understands the “bigger picture” and applies thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded, and informed by evidence.

Collaborative Learner

A collaborative learner understands and utilizes the strengths and skills needed to work productively within a group while honoring diverse perspectives and effectively resolving conflicts.

Responsible Citizen

A responsible citizen acts honestly and demonstrates care for themselves and the local and global communities by conscientiously honoring commitments and owning positive and negative outcomes.

Empathetic Influencer

An empathetic influencer demonstrates the ability to recognize and share the feelings, emotions, perspectives, and experiences of others in order to respond with compassion and understanding.

Creative Innovator

A creative innovator demonstrates originality, imagination, and new ways of thinking beyond traditional ideas, rules, patterns, and relationships.

On May 17, 2022, South Glens Falls Central School District residents voted to approve the Envision 2025 Capital Project.

The project was created to help advance the district’s instructional and co-curricular programs and improve the health, safety, security and ADA compliance of our buildings. Envision 2025 aimed to achieve energy efficiencies and cost-saving measures while also protecting the community’s long-term investment in infrastructure and technology.

Since then, the district has successfully completed the following projects:

• The installation of the multi-purpose turf field at South High in the autumn of 2024 and the grand opening was held in the spring of 2025.

• Relocated the high school track and baseball field to the Tanglewood Elementary site

• Installed an additional parking lot accessed by a new driveway off Feeder Dam Road. The new driveway created a four-way intersection between the driveway, Feeder Dam Road and Jackson Road. This change also altered the morning pickup and afternoon drop off, allowing for a separation of bus and vehicle traffic.

The following updates have been completed at the Oliver W. Winch Middle School:

• Overhauled the Large Group Instructional (LGI) room to improve both its function and performance. Changes included replacing the stage with a floor-level performance space and installing a retractable seating system.

• Renovated the entry lobby to create an expanded, more inviting, and functional space.

• Relocated and renovated the main office suite, guidance suite, and nurse suite to improve access and provide secure entry.

• Improved library finishes and its connection to the corridor.

• Upgraded general classrooms by replacing ceilings, lighting, and flooring. Existing chalkboards were replaced with modern whiteboards.

• Refurbished gym locker rooms to improve finishes and enhance the line of sight.

• Created a dedicated choral room and expanded the current band classroom.

• Modernized the technology classrooms to create an advanced learning center.

• Provided a water filtration system and replaced the water storage tank.

• Relocated the seventh-grade science rooms adjacent to the eighth-grade Family and Consumer Sciences classrooms.

Phase four of the project is underway and is expected to be completed in 2027.

During the summer of 2026, construction will focus on Ballard and Moreau elementary schools. The buildings will see their nurse’s offices updated to make them better ADA compliant, especially in the bathrooms, which currently cannot easily accommodate a wheelchair.

Projects in phase four also include:

• An overhaul of the South Glens Falls High School Guidance Office

• Selected roofing upgrades at both Ballard and Tanglewood elementaries

• Refinish the gymnasium flooring at both Ballard and Tanglewood elementaries

• Digital signs will be installed at all elementary schools

• Upgraded water filtration systems will be installed at both Harrison and Moreau elementaries

• Hot water heaters replacement at Harrison and Moreau elementaries

• Unit ventilator replacement at Moreau Elementary

• Select electric panel replacement at Harrison and Moreau elementaries

• Additionally in 2026, the district has planned to install improved irrigation around the fields at the Oliver W. Winch Middle School and reseed the lawn after it is completed.