Our mission is to provide an equitable, supportive, and student-centered learning environment where all students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

From the Principal's Desk

Dear Schenectady High School Families, Students, and Community,

🍂 Gratitude, Growth & Connection! 🍂

November is here — the season of gratitude, reflection, and connection! As the weather cools and we prepare for the holidays ahead, we want to take a moment to thank YOU for being such an important part of our school community. Your involvement and support make a world of difference for our students and staff.

🌾 Native American Heritage Month
This month, we honor and celebrate Native American Heritage Month by recognizing the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. Throughout November, students will have opportunities to engage in learning experiences that deepen their understanding and appreciation of Native American history and traditions.

🦃 Thanksgiving Break Reminder
As Thanksgiving approaches, we hope all our families find time to relax and enjoy meaningful moments together. There will be no school on the 27th or the 28th in observance of the holiday. We wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

📱 Stay Connected with ROOMS
Have you connected with your child’s teachers through ROOMS yet? ROOMS is our communication app that allows parents and guardians to easily message teachers, receive classroom updates, and stay in the loop on what’s happening at school. It’s a great tool for keeping communication strong and supporting your student’s success! Click HERE for more information and support.

💻 Parent Portal Access
Don’t forget to check the Parent Portal regularly to view grades, attendance, and other important information. Staying engaged with your child’s academic progress has a huge impact, and the portal makes it easy to stay informed.

As always, we encourage you to read through the entire newsletter and check the Patriot Post for all the latest news, updates, and upcoming events.

Thank you for being an important part of our Patriot family. Let’s make November a month full of learning, gratitude, and connection!

Principal Green

Steinmetz Freshman Leadership Academy

Justin Lansley, Academy Principal

Kargsia McDuffie, Assistant Principal

Charles Paravella, Assistant Principal

Kees Keizer, Assistant Principal

Humanities, Communications, & Advocacy Leadership Community

Jocelyn Hoffmann, HCA Principal

Vaughn Gabbidon, HCA Assistant Principal

The Quarter 1 marking period closes on November 10, with report cards going home on November 20.  Please encourage your teens to connect with their teachers to ensure they are passing their courses and earning credits towards graduation!  Progress reports were mailed home on October 16, which give you a good idea about where your child stands in all their classes.  Let's work together to raise our students up for success!

Check out our Featured Student, Leonard Watkins, and our Featured Teacher, Ms. Insull! See pics below for some Fun Facts!

Click this link to join our Google Classroom: HCA Google Classroom

STEM Leadership Community

Wendy Ausfeld, STEM Principal

Matthew Morgan, STEM Assistant Principal

Hello everyone!  Happy November!  We had a busy October ending with the Witches and Warlord of the STEM office. 

Take a look at our Google Classroom here: STEM Google Classroom

Business, Marketing & Entrepreneurship Leadership Community

Dr. Ady Piña, BME Principal

Frank DeCrescenzo, BME Assistant Principal

Take a look at our Google Classroom here: BME Google Classroom

Visual & Performing Arts Leadership Community

Brandon Coon, VPA Principal

Marty Oldfield-Maser, VPA Assistant Principal

Blue Roses is proud to prevent the first production of the 2025-26 season, Reckless by Craig Lucas. The story begins on a snowy Christmas Eve, where protagonist Rachel experiences an unexpected revelation from her husband, Tom, who confesses he has contracted a hitman to kill her, leading her on a bizarre journey filled with eccentric characters. Performances: Thursday and Friday, November 20th and 21st at 7pm; Saturday, November 23rd at 2pm & 7pm in the William W. Ziskin Black Box Theater at Schenectady High School
Tickets: $5 for General Admission; $2 for Senior Citizens; FREE for SCSD Staff & Students

The Henry & Miriam Buzel Gallery welcomes a new art exhibit, Jon Christopher Gernon: Things We Don't Talk About, on display Oct. 14-Nov. 21. We are very excited to share this artist with the school and the community, and will feature the gallery in several upcoming lessons in the visual arts department.

Mark your calendars for the Schenectady County Holiday Parade, featuring the SHS Dance Connection Team! Saturday, Nov. 22, Downtown Schenectady!

VPA Google Classroom

Coordinator of Student Support Services at SHS

Mrs. Carolyn Manzella

The Coordinator of Student Support Services at SHS will collaborate closely with School Psychologists, Special Education teachers, Building Principals, and other related service providers. Together, they will craft Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and FBA/BIPS (Functional Behavior Assessments/Behavior Improvement Plans). This collaborative effort aims to ensure that program services align with the district's vision and are fully compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

Home & School Alliance

LaShanda Blanks, SHS Parent Empowerment Center Facilitator                                             

SHS Pantry

The Parent Empowerment Center Pantry is able to provide our families with up to 3 days' worth of meals, twice a month,  while you get assistance with a permanent plan. Inventory subject to change & available on as as-needed basis.

Complete THIS FORM for your needs.