AP Highlights

The APHS Off Broadway Players have completed their performances of Mamma Mia, marking one of the largest casts in the past four years under the direction of Mrs. Monroe. The production featured a talented student cast supported by a professional pit band, bringing energy, music and storytelling to the stage.

Thank you to the performers, crew members, musicians, directors and families who helped make this production a success. The dedication and teamwork on and off the stage showcased the strength and talent of our performing arts community.

Algonquin Middle School presents Shrek the Musical Jr. on Friday, March 6 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 7 at 2 p.m. Join us for an entertaining performance featuring our talented middle school cast. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for students and seniors.

AMS gathered to honor a special group of students who have shown incredible growth in their academic, personal, or social skills. Whether it’s working harder in the classroom or showing extra kindness in the halls, these students are truly "rising" to the occasion. A huge thank you to the parents and guardians who joined us this morning to celebrate these achievements. We also appreciate the APO for providing the delicious breakfast treats that made the celebration extra sweet.

View Rising Knight Awards Photo Gallery

The AMS MathCounts team recently traveled to GE Aerospace in Niskayuna to compete in the chapter competition against teams from across the region. Students participated in four rounds—Sprint, Target, Team and Countdown—as part of the four-level competition series. The team represented AP with pride throughout the three-hour competition series.

The AMS Library is recognizing Women’s History Month with a curated collection of books honoring women who have shaped history and those leading change today. From science and athletics to activism and the arts, these stories showcase courage, resilience, and determination. Students are encouraged to visit the library and discover inspiring voices that continue to make a difference.

AP student artists earned top honors in the 2025-26 Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. Lana Valachovic received a Gold Key and advances to national adjudication, while Shea Eller earned a Silver Key. Sydney Farron, Rebecca Gallerani and Anastazia Valachovic were recognized with Honorable Mentions. With more than 4,500 entries submitted across the Central New York region, this achievement reflects exceptional creativity and skill. Congratulations to our talented student artists.

Congratulations to Golden Knights of the Week, Tyler Bradley and Isabel Moore! Bradley had 10 rebounds, 6 steals, and scored 30 points in a 54-51 win at Burnt Hills. While Moore, placed 2nd at 132 lbs. at the Section 2 Championships to qualify for the NYSPHSAA Championships.

APHS hosted its quarterly WE Make AP a GREAT Place to BE class meetings to honor students who demonstrated academic success, positive behavior, and consistent attendance. Students who passed all classes, remained referral-free, and had fewer than five unexcused absences were recognized. Teachers also nominated students for the I Make AP a GREAT Place to BE award for outstanding citizenship.

Every Friday during block two, our incredible AP Connections recycling team travels throughout the high school and district office collecting recycling. Thank you to Cameron, Ryann, Kade, Olivia, Takiyah, Clara and Tyler for your consistency, teamwork and commitment to an environmentally responsible and sustainable AP community!

Students in Mr. Miller’s financial algebra classes connected classroom learning to real-life responsibilities during recent guest presentations. Deputy Brian Nickles discussed safe driving practices, what to do if pulled over, and the dangers of impaired driving. Meghan McGarry followed with an overview of auto, home, and commercial insurance, helping students better understand future financial decisions. We appreciate both speakers for supporting practical, real-world learning experiences.

The APHS Angler Club recently hosted Lucas Reiter, Class of 2022 and a founding member of the club. Lucas spoke about his studies in fisheries and aquaculture at SUNY Cobleskill and shared insights from his internships and fieldwork on lakes and rivers throughout New York. Students gained valuable perspective on potential career paths and the importance of hands-on experience. We appreciate Lucas for returning to connect with current students and wish him continued success.

The District is proud to announce that Mike Blostein, Director of Instrumental Music at APHS, has been nominated for the Manilow Music Teacher Award! This award recognizes outstanding music teachers who bring music to life for their students. The top vote recipient will receive $10,000—$5,000 in cash and $5,000 in Manilow Bucks to purchase instruments. Please vote daily and help spread the word! Voting ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on March 19th. Vote now: https://on.barrymanilow.com/trk/mmpalbany

On this episode of the Every Student Every Day Podcast, Superintendent Dr. James Franchini sits down with Lily Pulcher, Teagan Carrig, Eily Vollick to spotlight the behind-the-scenes work powering this year’s spring musical, Mamma Mia!

Hear from the student leaders involved in designing props, choreography, and costume management, along with advisor and director Nicole Monroe, as they share what it takes to bring a large-scale production to life. Find us wherever you listen to podcasts, just search for “Every Student Every Day.”

AP Athletics is proud to share that Bear, Emelia Sala and Coach Gobel were featured in a News13-produced commercial highlighting the mission of Section 2 Athletics and the ongoing need to recruit referees. View full videos on the District website

Thank you to Bear, Emelia and Coach Gobel for representing AP and helping spread the word about this important effort! The commercial shines a light on the important role officials play in supporting student-athletes and ensuring fair, safe competition.

Congratulations to our Golden Knights of the Week, Sheyanne Law and Tyler Bradley! In a 70-41 win over Ballston Spa, Law had seventeen points and three steals. In a 58-40 win at Ballston Spa, Bradley had 29 points, twelve rebounds, and four steals.

MHSL recently welcomed Charlotte as SRO for the Day, where she had the opportunity to experience a day alongside Deputy Brian Nikles. During her visit, Charlotte read to a kindergarten class, connected with younger students and learned more about the important role the School Resource Officer plays in supporting a safe and positive school environment.

Deputy Nikles also shared a meaningful moment with Charlotte in front of a school mural that reads, “Go out and make it a great day.” He explained that the phrase was often spoken by one of his favorite teachers, who is deeply missed, and how those words continue to inspire him each day. It was a memorable experience that highlighted leadership, mentorship and the power of positive messages within a school community.

Fifth graders at WSL hit the ice this week for a memorable outing filled with fun and laughter. Experiences like this help build confidence, create lasting memories and bring plenty of smiles. Thank you to Coach Hirschoff for organizing a great event for our students.

Second grade students in Mrs. Senter’s class recently completed a biography poster project centered on leaders who advanced civil rights and women’s rights. Through research and writing, students highlighted key facts, character traits, and contributions of their chosen figures. The project reinforced literacy skills and encouraged meaningful discussions about courage, fairness, and making a positive difference.

From collaborative classroom discussions to hands-on activities and creative projects, students at MHSL are engaged in meaningful learning every day. Across grade levels and subject areas, our students are building skills, asking thoughtful questions, and growing as learners in a supportive and dynamic environment.

WSL welcomed a special SRO for the Day this week. Gracelynn Garrow was selected after submitting an essay explaining why she wanted the opportunity. She also invited a few friends to join her for donuts as part of the experience. Thank you to SRO Deputy Brian Nikles for making the day such a memorable one for our students.

PES recently gathered for a PES Pride Assembly centered on the importance of empathy and understanding others. Through engaging activities and thoughtful discussion, students explored what it means to see situations from another person’s perspective and how small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. Students left with a stronger understanding of how empathy helps create a supportive and welcoming school environment for everyone.

MHSL 4th Graders created biography backgrounds highlighting why each was remembered and highlighting beliefs they held. A character figure portraying each was also included. Projects were displayed in the library, display case and hallways around the school.

During February Literacy Month, WSL students took part in a special literacy initiative that brought readers together across grade levels. Second graders were paired with their fourth grade Book Buddies, and partners enjoyed spending time reading together and strengthening a love of books.

As part of our month-long celebration of reading, PES has been highlighting student readers during the afternoon announcements with Mr. Gela. A team works together to select and discuss students who are eager to share what they are currently reading for their reading passport, along with their favorite books. Thank you to Evelyn, Ava and Serena for serving as spotlight readers.

As a reminder, the deadline to register for the UPK lottery for the 2026-27 school year is Friday, March 6th. If you have a child who will be four (4) years of age on or before December 1, 2026, he/she would be eligible to participate in the district's UPK program for the 2026-27 school year. For more information, please visit the District's UPK webpage

The Averill Park School District has begun the process of registering students for the 2026-2027 kindergarten classes. If your child will be five years of age on or before Dec. 1, 2026, then please contact the Registrar at 518-674-7050, extension 7201 to make sure that the child is listed on our school census. This will guarantee that you will receive all upcoming kindergarten information by mail. Registration paperwork will be started online and completed by appointment with the Registrar at the District office at the Averill Park High School during the month of February. Registration hours are Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 3:30 PM.

New York State Public Health Law requires certain immunizations to enter kindergarten and attend school. Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child has all the needed immunizations. They are provided in the 2026-27 Kindergarten Registration Announcement.

Try something new or rekindle a former passion in 2026! View our Community Education Offerings for February & March.

View all offerings & register: https://www.familyid.com/organizations/averill-park-community-education.

Averill Park CSD has collaborated with the Regional Food Bank for over 10 years. The District provides the Back Pack Program at all three of elementary schools. The Back Pack Program is designed to meet the needs of food insecure children on weekends when school meals are not available. The Program provides bags filled with food that is child-friendly, non-perishable, and easily prepared and consumed. Bags are packed weekly by school staff and volunteers then discreetly distributed to participating children every Friday afternoon. To learn how you can help sponsor a child’s weekend meals for an entire year, please visit

averillpark.k12.ny.us/services/averill-park-csd-backpack-program.

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