RIDER REPORT
Superintendent's Corner
We are so excited to welcome back our students and staff for another wonderful year!
At the start of the 2024-25 school year, we launched Capital Project December 2025 – a facilities project that completes the work that was started in our 2018 project. This new effort addresses aging infrastructure and creates modern spaces that support student innovation and well-being – keeping us aligned with the district’s priorities, including the ICCSD Instructional Program Vision and our Rider Goals 2027. This edition of the Rider Report provides an update on the progress of this exciting project.
After months of research and collaboration with Board of Education members, staff, students, families, community representatives and a dedicated Task Force, the Board of Education approved an updated cell phone policy aligned with the new NYS law that bans cell phone and other internet-enabled device use during the school day, from bell to bell. Keep reading to learn more about the policy and the reasons behind this important change.
Most importantly, we are so glad to be back together as one Rider community. Our community connections extend far beyond our buildings and campus boundaries. In this issue, you’ll also discover how we are fostering global awareness and engagement across our schools.
Welcome back, Riders! Best of luck in the upcoming school year and here we go!
Articles in this edition:
- ICCSD is Future-Focused: Capital Project December 2025
- Board Approves Updated Cell Phone Policy
- Building Global Citizens at ICC
- Ichabod Crane Launches Seal of Civic Readiness Program
- Staff Kick Off the School Year with Professional Learning
- Summer Learning Program Supports Students Across K-12
- What’s Next in September
- #ICYMI
ICCSD is Future-Focused: Capital Project Referendum Vote on Dec. 16
The Ichabod Crane Central School District continues to move forward with plans for the next phase of facilities improvements through the Capital Project December 2025. The district is close to finalizing the scope of the project, which focuses on addressing aging infrastructure, supporting future-focused instruction and spaces that support student well-being.
The referendum will be held on December 16, 2025, marking an important milestone in the long-term planning and investment in our facilities.
“This project builds on more than a decade of improvements across our schools and continues the district’s mission to create safe, modern and future-focused learning environments,” Superintendent Marie Digirolamo said.
A Long-Term Approach to Capital Improvements
This project continues a cycle of investments that most recently began in 2012 with upgrades to the High School library, gym and locker rooms – followed by the 2014 Primary School addition and the 2018 Capital Project, which included the creation of the state-of-the-art High School STEAM Wing, premiere gymnasium at the Middle School and key safety upgrades.
The next phase now focuses on:
The Middle School engineering technology lab, art and music rooms and locker rooms.
Outdoor physical education and athletics spaces, including replacement of the main playfield.
Primary School kitchen renovation, playground upgrades and targeted air conditioning.
High School kitchen and window renovations.
Bus Garage updates, including equipment replacements.
Critically needed infrastructure updates across all schools.
Two Propositions
The project will appear on the ballot in two parts:
Proposition 1: Includes all infrastructure improvements and renovations across the Primary School, Middle School, High School and Bus Garage. Proposition 1 also includes replacement of the playfield with natural grass.
Proposition 2: Covers the additional cost ($2,018,270) of replacing the playfield with synthetic turf instead of grass. Proposition 2 may only pass if Proposition 1 passes.
We have a dedicated page on the district’s website for our Capital Projects, where you will find up-to-date information and links to key presentations and resources.
Stakeholder Input
Stakeholder involvement has been central throughout this process. Beginning in fall 2024, district leaders engaged families, faculty, staff and students to help shape the scope of the project. This included:
Surveys completed by more than 110 community members.
Meetings with over 30 faculty and staff members from across the district.
Input from the High School Student Liaison Team, Middle School technology students and 3rd graders who shared feedback on the Primary School playground.
“This feedback, combined with our building condition surveys and input from the Board of Education Facilities Committee, helped prioritize urgent needs and align the scope with the ICC Instructional Program Vision and Rider Goals 2027,” Superintendent Digirolamo said.
Beginning in September 2025, the district will host public information forums. Some sessions will review the full scope of the project, while others will focus on specific topics such as proposed updates to physical education and athletics spaces.
Key Design Features - Middle School Engineering Technology Lab
The project creates spaces that support innovative teaching and learning, including major upgrades to the Middle School Engineering Technology Lab. Planned improvements feature new clean and dirty work areas, expanded storage, dust collection systems, 3D printers and CNC engravers — laying a strong foundation for the High School STEAM program.
“The Middle School Technology Program is the cornerstone of our department,” said Technology Teacher Jared Bevington. “These upgrades will not only improve safety and efficiency, but also accelerate learning and better prepare students for future opportunities in engineering and beyond. They’ll leave with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that mirrors real-world practices.”
“In 7th and 8th grade, students work with a wide range of projects, technologies and machines, gaining valuable hands-on skills. But in recent years, the lab was downsized to create additional classrooms, leading to overcrowding, limited workspace and long waits for equipment. With more students enrolling in technology classes and growing interest in trades and hands-on careers, the need for a larger, more well-equipped lab is clear,” Mr. Bevington added.
Key Design Features - Student Well-Being
This project also creates spaces that support student mental health, and physical and emotional well-being. These upgrades include:
Middle School counseling and main office suite with dedicated spaces for social workers, psychologists and school counselors, plus expanded areas for special education, OT/PT and speech.
Adaptive PE and multipurpose spaces to support a variety of student and community programs.
Locker room renovations with direct exterior access, improved PE storage and a new concession stand and lobby connection to the Central Gym.
Financing the Project
To ensure fiscal responsibility, the district is working with BPD, Inc., the ICCSD financial advisory firm, to design a financing plan that maximizes state building aid (currently at 73%), coordinates with retiring debt and leverages capital reserves. This approach is intended to minimize local tax impact while addressing urgent facility needs.
If the referendum is approved, the district will begin detailed design development in 2026, followed by permitting and bidding. Construction would tentatively begin in July 2027 with project closeout projected in 2029.
“We know that to provide our students with the high quality education they deserve — one that fosters both academic success and overall well-being — we must continue investing in our infrastructure. As always, our students and staff are at the center of what we do and this Capital Project is no exception," said Board of Education President Matthew Nelson. "With valuable input from our community and through a collaborative design approach, we’ve developed a project that continues to propel Ichabod forward while remaining fiscally responsible, especially in today’s financial climate. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing and unwavering support of the Ichabod Crane community and look forward to your feedback in the months ahead and participation in the vote this December.”
ICYMI — What does it mean to be a Rider?
Last year, we launched the school year with this powerful video — and if you’re new to the district (or just missed it), now’s your chance to see it!
🎥 Hear from our students and staff about what being a Rider is all about. It’s more than a mascot or a hashtag — it’s who we are.
Board of Education Approves Updated Cell Phone Policy
The Board of Education has approved an updated Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy, which complies with the new NYS law that bans the use of internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, during the entire school day.
Ichabod’s updated policy and the state law also applies to tablets, smartwatches and other devices capable of connecting to the internet or accessing online content, such as social media apps.
As we move forward, administrators and staff in each building will support students in understanding both the impact of social media and the reasoning behind this change. Research shows that internet-connected devices can disrupt learning, impact mental health, increase disciplinary concerns and lower student engagement.
At the High School, where the biggest changes are taking place, staff are adding fun alternatives during lunch, including card and board games, as well as foosball and air hockey tables. We know this transition may take some adjustment, but we’re confident it will foster stronger, more meaningful connections.
Ichabod’s updated policy includes the following requirements:
Primary School: Students are discouraged from bringing devices to school. Any device that is brought must be silenced and kept in backpacks.
Middle School: Devices must be silenced and stored in student lockers (this continues the current practice).
High School: Devices must be silenced and stored in student lockers.
Click here to read the full policy.
Work on updating the district’s cell phone policy began in January 2024. By summer, community-wide discussions led to the formation of the Task Force for Safe and Responsible Cell Phone Usage.
This group, made up of administrators, staff, students, parents, community members and law enforcement, began meeting in November 2024 to conduct research, review policies and visit schools with cell phone-free environments. Their findings, which referenced several peer-reviewed studies, were presented to the Policy Committee in March and to the full Board of Education in April.
In the meantime, Governor Kathy Hochul announced proposed legislation in January 2025 requiring all New York State districts to adopt cell phone-free policies by August 1, 2025. The legislation was codified into law as part of the state budget.
“I would like to thank the BOE Policy Committee and stakeholders from across the district who came together as part of the ICC Taskforce for Safe and Responsible Cell Phone Usage to research and design a policy that best meets the needs of ICC,” said Superintendent Marie Digirolamo. "Internet-connected devices can significantly distract from the learning environment, negatively affect student mental health, contribute to disciplinary infractions and reduce student engagement.”
Thanks to the input of the taskforce members, the district was able to adopt the policy prior to the August 1 deadline. The new policy will be reviewed at the end of the school year.
Building Global Citizens at ICC
At Ichabod Crane, we’re committed to helping students become true global citizens – a cornerstone of our Portrait of a Rider. Curious, empathetic and ready to engage with the world, our students explore diverse cultures, forge international connections and take part in experiences that expand their horizons and leave a lasting impact.
Welcoming International Scholars
Last year, we were proud to host three International Scholars from Germany and Italy. Each student lived with a Rider family and spent several months experiencing life and education in the United States. Their time at Ichabod was not only transformative for them, but also for our community.
Before returning home, Leonie, Carola and Leticia visited classrooms in the Primary and Middle Schools to share what life is like in Italy and Germany. They talked with students about traditions, food, sports and everyday experiences. More than 270 students and 15 staff members had the chance to learn directly from them – an experience that brought our Rider community closer to the wider world.
This year, so far, we are excited to continue the tradition by welcoming new International Scholars from Spain, Italy and Switzerland.
A New Era of Student Travel
Another milestone in our commitment to global learning is the launch of an international student trip to Europe, planned for April 2027. Ichabod Crane High School students and staff will voyage to the Alps region of Germany, Italy and Switzerland for 10 action-packed days.
The interest in this trip has been overwhelming. Following an informational meeting last June – with over 230 RSVPs – enrollment quickly surpassed expectations. What began as a single bus partnership with Guilderland High School quickly grew into two buses dedicated solely to ICC, with 84 student travelers enrolled and a waitlist already forming.
“When students are allowed to travel out of their comfort zones, without the safety net of their immediate family members, they are given the opportunity to practice life skills that will serve them in myriad ways throughout their futures,” said High School English Teacher Libbie Chadwick, who is partnering with colleague Maureen Van Tassel, teacher of history, psychology and economics, to facilitate the trip.
Mrs. Chadwick added, “Our students will experience differences in culture, language, food and navigation. They will learn how to live 24-7 with different people, which can certainly be challenging, but also extremely rewarding. They’ll practice communicating across cultures, problem-solving in unfamiliar settings and gaining independence as young adults. Ultimately, international travel opens their eyes to the wider world. We hope this trip sparks curiosity, humility, excitement and personal growth in every traveler — and we can’t wait to join them on the journey!”
Global learning doesn’t only happen abroad. Ichabod Crane continues to celebrate bilingualism and civic responsibility through two signature programs:
Seal of Biliteracy: Now in its sixth year at Ichabod Crane, nine students earned this recognition last June by demonstrating advanced proficiency in both English and a world language. Students completed rigorous coursework, culminating projects and oral presentations in their target language. Click here to learn more about this amazing group of students.
Seal of Civic Readiness: Introduced last year, this state program recognizes students who demonstrate a strong understanding of civics and a commitment to civic engagement. Seven students earned the Seal in its inaugural year at ICC. Requirements include coursework, assessments and hands-on civic participation projects designed to build the skills essential for active participation in a democratic society. Check out the next article for a closer look at the students who earned this honor in the program’s first year.
“Together with our K-12 academic curriculum, which weaves global perspectives into social studies, world languages, the arts and more, these programs underscore our mission to prepare students for life in an interconnected world,” Superintendent Marie Digirolamo said. “From hosting International Scholars, to sending our own students abroad, to embedding global learning into everyday coursework, Ichabod Crane is proud to create opportunities that help students see themselves as part of something bigger. These efforts are about more than travel or language – they are opportunities to build confidence to step into the world with open eyes and open minds.”
ICHS Launches NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Program
Last year, Ichabod Crane High School introduced the Seal of Civic Readiness program— a first in district history. Developed by the New York State Education Department (NYSED), the Seal recognizes high school graduates who have demonstrated a strong understanding of civics, a commitment to civic engagement and readiness for active participation in civic life beyond high school.
The program took shape in the summer of 2024 when High School Social Studies teachers Patrick Sanger and Robert Allard designed a proposal that was later approved by both district leadership and NYSED. The 2024-25 school year marked its first year of implementation.
To earn the Seal, students must accumulate at least six points through a combination of rigorous social studies coursework, assessments and meaningful civic participation projects. As NYSED describes, civic education equips students with the skills needed for a democratic society to thrive — from problem-solving in their communities to respectfully engaging with differing viewpoints.
This past spring, we recognized seven members of the Class of 2025 as Ichabod Crane’s first Seal of Civic Readiness recipients.
Paige Everett
Paige discovered her passion for environmental stewardship in Environmental Studies, where she participated in hands-on projects like testing the health of the Hudson River and researching sustainable technologies. Her dedication shows how young leaders can take action to protect our planet’s future.
Amara Gabriel
Amara found her voice through Model UN, gaining confidence in public speaking and advocating for global issues. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom as she organized fundraisers to make the Harvard Model UN conference accessible to more students – proving that one person can truly make a difference.
Maguire Barton
Maguire brought her aacroeconomics studies to life through debates, news analysis and thoughtful discussions, developing a strong understanding of economic policies and their real-world impact. Her journey highlights the importance of informed voices in public discourse.
Sophia Karic
Sophia explored diverse global cultures through her work in the humanities, engaging in museum visits and literary debates. She showed how empathy and understanding different perspectives can be powerful tools for inspiring positive change through art and media.
Olivia McCrudden
Olivia gained real-world insight into the justice system through her internship at Albany Family Court. She developed a deeper understanding of the law, along with a strong sense of empathy and a desire to help others through a future career in legal service.
Madeleine Casey
Through her volunteer work at the Albany VA Hospital, Madeleine assisted veterans and learned firsthand the value of service, compassion and equity. Her experience reflects how acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on those who have served our country.
Holly LaBatt
As a camp counselor, Holly guided young children through social and emotional growth, building her own leadership, empathy and conflict-resolution skills. Her work underscores the importance of mentorship and support in shaping future generations.
“Launching the Seal of Civic Readiness was no easy feat for the teachers and students involved. Earning the Seal of Civic Readiness means meeting rigorous standards, but it also represents living out the values of service, responsibility and active citizenship that we strive to instill in all Ichabod Crane students. Our inaugural Seal of Civic Readiness recipients are an inspiration to our entire school community and I am so excited to watch the program as it continues in the future.” Superintendent Marie Digirolamo said.
Staff Kick Off the School Year with Professional Learning
New staff members were welcomed on Monday, August 25, with a two-day orientation designed to help them get to know each other, our team of Rider staff and administrators and the district as a whole. Activities included the New Staff Orientation, an engaging and informative bus tour around the district, meetings with their new principals and directors and dedicated time in their new classrooms and workspaces.
All staff returned to campus on Thursday, August 27, ready for two days of engaging professional learning and final preparations for the first day of school on September 2.
Instructional staff participated in school-wide and department meetings, coming together to discuss curriculum, share best practices and collaborate on strategies to make the 2025-26 school year a successful one for all of our students. Sessions included Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, Responsive Classroom, iReady Math and more.
Non-instructional departments conducted training sessions and worked on projects to ensure that our buildings, grounds and operations were ready and safe for the return of our 1,700 students and 350 staff members.
In addition to required sessions, staff had the opportunity to participate in optional offerings designed to promote professional growth and personal wellness. These included wellness events like Zumba and morning walks, professional learning in Canva and graphic design, basic emergency training, AI integration, differential instruction and arts integration workshops.
These days provided valuable time for staff to connect, prepare and recharge ahead of the new school year, setting a strong foundation for a year of learning, growth and community.
Summer Learning Program Supports Students Across K-12
Once again, Ichabod Crane’s comprehensive Summer Learning Program successfully met a variety of goals, including supporting academic progress, credit recovery, Regents preparation and providing additional services for students across K-12.
Invitations Program (Grades K-3)
Our youngest learners had a productive and fun summer, with 72 students participating in the Invitations Program.
“Our students came ready to learn, made measurable gains and had a great time,” said Invitations Principal Erin Russo, also Assistant Principal at the Middle School. “One class even held a lemonade stand so students could practice using money and making change. Stewart’s Shops generously sponsored an ice cream field trip – Thank you, Stewart’s! – and we wrapped up the program with a popsicle party on the playground.”
Mrs. Russo added, “This program is especially impactful for incoming kindergartners and 4th graders, who are navigating major transitions — either entering the Primary School for the first time or moving up to the Middle School. Thanks to this program, these students will start school in September with greater skills and confidence.”
Middle School Summer School (Grades 4-8)
A total of 41 students, including 39 from ICC and 2 from Maple Hill, participated in courses such as math, ELA and Spanish. Several students earned credits they can carry into High School.
“This program helps students earn credit for courses they previously struggled in, reinforces learning from the past year and prevents summer regression,” said Middle School Principal Anthony Marturano. “It also provides a smaller, more personalized setting to focus on specific skills.”
High School Summer School (Grades 9-12)
Seventy six High School students attended our summer learning program, with 62 from ICC and 14 from Maple Hill. The program offered a wide range of subjects, including Algebra, Global History, US History, Spanish, Biology, Earth Science, English (9, 10, 11), Participatory Government, Health, Chemistry, Regents review classes and more.
“Summer school gives students a supportive, welcoming space to catch up on credits, keep their learning on track and stay connected to school – helping them move confidently toward graduation,” said High School Principal Craig Shull.
The program had a 92 percent passing rate for students who completed their summer courses.
Extended School Year (ESY) Program
This summer, our K-8 Special Education Extended School Year program gave 41 students with disabilities the chance to practice important academic, social and daily living skills in a fun and supportive environment. Teachers and staff focused on reinforcing IEP goals through hands-on activities, small-group lessons and individual support.
“Students also enjoyed opportunities to connect with peers, build confidence and keep routines in place to make the transition back to school smoother,” said Special Education Director Peg Warner. We are proud of the progress students made and the positive energy they brought each day."
What's Next in September
September 5: Primary School Unity Parade, 9:00 a.m., ICC track
September 5: PTA + ICTA Back-to-School Picnic, 5:00-7:00 p.m., Primary School Playground
September 9: Board of Education Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m, High School Library
September 11: Middle School (Grades 6-8) Open House, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
September 16: Primary School (Grades 1 & 3) Open House, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
September 18: Middle School (Grades 4&5) Open House, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
September 23: Primary School (Grades K & 2) Open House, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
September 25: High School Open House, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Note: dates, times and locations are subject to change.
#ICYMI
🌟Our newest Lil Riders had an amazing time at Kindergarten Quest! At Camp Kindergarten, incoming kindergarteners & their families met teachers, explored classrooms & went on a scavenger hunt through the school — with stops in the library, art room, music room, cafeteria, gym & more. 🎨🎶📚 They even got to climb aboard a big yellow school bus for a first-day sneak peek!
🌟 A HUGE THANK YOU to our incredible ICC Summer Crew! So many of our instructional and non-instructional staff worked tirelessly throughout the summer to prepare for another great school year — from our dedicated teams in Transportation, Facilities, IT, Special Education & Food Services to the amazing staff in our Building and District Offices!
