Author: monique.jacobs
Anthony Paradiso inducted into National Football Foundation Hall of Fame
Anthony Paradiso, an FPHS senior and member of the Canajoharie-Fort Plain football team, has been inducted into the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame, Capital District Chapter, a first for Fort Plain.
Anthony received his Hall of Fame Scholar-Athlete Award at the Hall of Fame’s 34th Annual Awards Dinner at the Polish Community Center in Albany on Sunday, March 12.
The following is inscribed on Anthony’s award plaque: “The Capital District Chapter of the National Football Foundation grants Anthony Paradiso of Canajoharie-Fort Plain High Schools this certificate in recognition of being voted as outstanding in Academic Achievement, School & Community Leadership, and football performance, in the territory of this chapter.”
Anthony is an accomplished student-athlete who’s involved in many activities at school. His football days go back to his younger years. “I started playing football in 4th grade with Canajoharie Youth Football with Coach Kevin Suits and Brian Congdon,” Anthony said.
“In school I also play baseball. On my own, I do a lot of bowling in Junior Leagues/Tournaments, and I have played travel baseball in the past. I have also joined my sister in volleyball leagues/events during the summer.” [Anthony’s sister, Sarah, is a Class of 2021 alumna and who signed with Keuka College.]
As for academics, Anthony’s favorite subjects are math and science. At FPHS, he serves as Class Vice President and is involved in SADD, Student Council, Drama Club, National Honor Society and Yearbook Committee.
After graduation, Anthony plans to attend Lasell University in Newton, MA, to study Athletic Training/Exercise Science.
While the college gridiron is not in his future plans, Anthony will always enjoy football and other sports. “Unfortunately, due to the course load and sports offered by the school, furthering my athletic career in football is not possible, however, I do plan to stay around the sport of football with the help of my career and love for the game.
“As for other sports, right now, I am not committed to furthering my athletic career, however, I will still continue to stay active in the sports I love as best possible and even try other sports through intramurals and clubs, like volleyball.”
Anthony’s mom, Stephanie Paradiso, co-teaches second grade at Harry Hoag School. “Each school in Section II is given the opportunity to nominate one student for the National Football Hall of Fame honor, based not only on their work on the football field over the years, but also their achievements in and out of the classroom,” she said.
“Not only did Anthony receive this honor, but it is extra special because he is the first student from Fort Plain to ever receive it! Anthony received a beautiful plaque and a shirt. His name will also be put on the wall in the College Hall of Fame in Georgia for the next year!”
In addition to being honored for football, Anthony was recently named a Bowling First Team All-Star by the Western Athletic Conference.
Congratulations Anthony!
FPCSD is closed Tuesday, March 14, due to poor travel conditions
Fort Plain Central School District is closed Tuesday, March 14, due to poor travel conditions. No virtual learning today; we will use our last emergency closure day. Stay safe everyone.
2-hour delay on 3/14; any closure determination will be made no later than 7 a.m.
March 13, 2023
Dear Fort Plain Students, Parents and Caregivers,
I trust everyone is doing well! We are hopeful spring will arrive soon, however, it is forecasted that more snow is expected to cover the region beginning this evening.
In anticipation of the expected significant snowfall, FPCSD will begin with a two-hour delay tomorrow, Tuesday, March 14th. A final determination regarding a school closure will be made tomorrow morning no later than 7:00 a.m.
If we have to close school tomorrow, that action will require us to use our last emergency closure allotted for in this year’s school calendar. The District planned for four emergency closures, we have used three thus far.
If further emergency closures (beyond the fourth one) are required, the District will shift to provide a virtual learning day. A virtual learning day is when students can access the curriculum outside of the traditional class. The virtual learning days are designed to avoid interruptions in instruction that occur when school cannot be held in person.
Below are the details for virtual learning for each age level:
Students in Pre-Kindergarten-Grade 4, Mr. McDuffee’s homeroom and Ms. Hoos’ homeroom will be sent home with a virtual learning packet. The packet will be labeled as Emergency Day 5 Learning Packet. This packet contains several assignments that should be completed and returned to school the next day. For students to be considered in attendance on the virtual learning day, they will need to turn in completed assignments as evidence of participation. If students are unable to complete the assignments independently or with remote support, accommodations will be made to assist them in making up the missed work upon return to school.
Students in Grades 5-6 will be able to access assignments from any device in their Google Classrooms. Again, for the student to be considered in attendance, the assigned work must be completed and turned in. These students may also be asked to log onto a Google Meet with their teachers at a specified time.
All elementary teachers will be available to check-in and assist students via ParentSquare or by using email from the hours of 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. during the virtual learning days.
For students in Grades 7-12, virtual learning days will operate on a 2-hour delay schedule. Students may be directed to attend a Google Meet or they may be assigned work to complete independently via Google Classroom. It is important that students check each Google Classroom Stream at the appropriate class time (listed below) to receive teacher expectations and assignments. If a class is not meeting via Google Meet, the teacher will be available to answer questions and provide support during posted office hours in their Google Classroom.
Period 1 – 10:00 -10:29 a.m.
Period 2 – 10:31 – 11:00 a.m.
Period 3 – 11:02 – 11:31 a.m.
Period 4 – 11:33 a.m. – 12:02 p.m.
Period 5- 12:04 – 12:33 p.m.
Lunch Break – 12:36 – 1:05 p.m.
Period 6 – 1:07 -1:36 p.m.
Period 7 – 1:38 – 2:07 p.m.
Period 8 – 2:09 – 2:38 p.m.
To join a Google Meet for any given class, students should sign in to Google Classroom and click the green “Join” button on the left-side menu.
Students in Grades 7-12 should make sure their chromebooks are charged and they are ready to begin classes at 10:00 a.m. For any technical issues please contact parenthelp@fortplain.org.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this letter, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Respectfully,
Mrs. Crisman
Superintendent of Schools
FPHS alumna author Allyson Dahlin shares experiences
By Tariyka Chaulk, Jr./Sr. High School librarian
Early Tuesday morning, March 7, Lisa Trembley’s 12th grade English classes gathered at the back of the Jr./Sr. High School Library to meet an author who once sat in those same seats. Published author and Fort Plain Class of 2008 alum, Allyson Dahlin, visited Mrs. Trembley’s college English and 12th grade classes, as well as Emma DiDonna’s 10th grade Honors English class.
Dahlin’s young adult book “Cake Eater” is a futuristic retelling of the story of Marie Antoinette. Students viewed a short presentation about Dahlin and her first published work, then spent the rest of the time asking questions about Dahlin’s process, how the publishing world works, and what stories Dahlin has in store for us in the future.
“Allyson did an excellent job interacting with our students today. It was truly a pleasure to hear her present part of her novel and to see the way she interacted with our students as she handled their many questions. She truly is a role model, and I am very proud of her. I cannot wait to read her next novel!” Mrs. Trembley commented on the visit.
Dahlin currently works in digital marketing but uses her spare time to write. The novel “Cake Eater” was written as part of the National Novel Writing Month challenge. During November, writers around the world set a goal and devote the month of November to writing a novel. Dahlin was able to do just that, with a literary agent and a publishing contract to follow. Her debut novel is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard book. During its debut month, it was listed as an Amazon Best Book and was recently added to the Hal Clement Notable Young Adult Book List, which lists the best science fiction books for young adults published throughout the year.
The visit was organized by Jr./Sr. High School Librarian, Tariyka Chaulk, for what she hopes will become a regular thing.
“I think these visits have such an impact because it makes a writer more real. Instead of a name on a cover, students see a real person in front of them. While the author is presenting, they might find commonalities between the author and themselves. Students might think, ‘That person’s just like me. They read books and wrote a novel. Maybe that’s something I can do.’”
Research suggests that students who participate in regular author visits are more likely to have high reading scores, and more likely to read and write for pleasure.
Congratulations All-Stars!
The Western Athletic Conference has honored several FPHS student-athletes as All-Stars.
Congratulations to:
- Amelia Gallagher for being named to the Western Athletic Conference Cheerleading All-Star Team
- Marissa Wilder for being named a Western Athletic Conference Basketball Second Team All-Star
- Stephen Gray for being named a Western Athletic Conference Basketball First Team All-Star
- Anthony Paradiso for being named a Western Athletic Conference Bowling First Team All-Star
- Alex Smith for being named a Western Athletic Conference Wrestling All-Star
- Austin Van Gorder for being awarded a Western Athletic Conference Basketball All-Star Honorable Mention
- Kaedence David for being named a Western Athletic Conference First Team All-Star
- Brianna Krutz for being named a Western Athletic Conference Second Team All-Star
FPHS is well represented at leadership conference
Fort Plain High School juniors Brady Keane, Jasmine Fonda, Courtney Euler, Marissa Wilder, Kaeden David, Monika Kulczynski, Coach John Fureno and Director of Student Engagement & Athletics David Bertram were among 300 student-athletes and coaches who participated in “Positive Leadership is Powerful Leadership: Diversity & Inclusion,” the 2023 Student-Athlete Leadership Conference, at the Clark Sports Center and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum on March 3 in Cooperstown.
They and their peers, representing nearly 50 school districts from throughout central New York, spent the day learning, exploring and building leadership skills.
According to Monica Wolfe, Cooperstown CSD leadership training for athletes advisor, “The leadership conference exists to foster a positive atmosphere and serve as a platform for student-athletes to recognize how leadership application in athletics affects their daily lives. In turn, that creates a ripple effect to be applied through the student-athlete’s life and shared with their teams/teammates, their schools and their community.”
The conference featured several workshops and speakers including SUNY Polytechnic Chief Diversity Officer and Title IX Coordinator Dr. Mark Montgomery, Hall of Fame President Josh Rawitch and Hall of Fame Director of Education Stephanie Hazzard.
Conference sponsors include the Center State Conference, Section III Athletics, NYSPHSAA, NYS AHPERD, Nimey’s New Generation, Advantage Sport and Fitness, Community Bank, American Dairy Association, Gates Cole Insurance, USA Racing, NYPC/Upstate/Bocca, NYCM, Leatherstocking Region FCU, Chobani, Stewart’s Shops, the Clark Sports Center and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
Students talk to lawmaker’s staff about taking a Reality Check
Reality Check representatives from Montgomery County Grace Dawson (above, far left) and LuAnn Santabarbara (far right), and FPHS students Trinity Belliveau and Zander Nemeth traveled to Albany to meet with Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara’s staff about funding and actions to cut tobacco use in NYS.
Trinity and Zander participated because they have seen the toll tobacco can take on families and communities and wanted to share their experiences with legislators.
Computer Services Coordinator-School District
Vacancy: Computer Services Coordinator-School District
(This position is a competitive civil service title and will be subject to future examination)
This is a responsible technical position and involves responsibility for coordinating the installation, maintenance and upgrading of computer hardware, developing specialized software packages, providing training and resolving problems on data processing equipment usage, and related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications:
A. Associate’s Degree in computer science or closely related field plus six (6) months microcomputer support experience; or
B. Completion of one (1) year of study in computer science or closely related field (15+ credit hours) plus 18 months microcomputer support experience; or
C. Two and one-half (2 ½) years’ experience as a Microcomputer support of Help Desk Technician. Additional formal or specialized training (A+, Microsoft certificates, etc.) in microcomputer systems, applications, and networking will be considered; or
D. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of A, B, and C
To apply: Send letter of interest, application and three letters of recommendation to:
Fort Plain Central School District Office
Superintendent of Schools
25 High St.
Fort Plain, NY 13339
Application deadline: Friday, March 10, 2023
Full job description from Montgomery County
COMPUTER SERVICES COORDINATOR – SCHOOL DISTRICT
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a responsible technical position and involves responsibility for coordinating the installation and maintenance and upgrading of computer hardware, developing specialized software packages, and providing training and resolving problems on data processing equipment usage. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Superintendent of the School District with leeway allowed for the use of independent judgment in carrying out details of the work. The incumbent does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)
- Monitor and respond to Help Desk Service requests; update Help Desk information and report as required;
- Troubleshoot, triage, and resolve reported computer hardware and software, printer, and network issues;
- Troubleshoot, triage, and resolve reported audio-visual equipment issues related to computers, Network, computer or network interfaces, or computer or network fed display/presentation devices;
- Performs new installs, reconfigurations, and overall maintenance of assigned computer resources;
- Provides user account and permissions support and maintenance including Citrix client Installation and configuration;
- Initiate the ordering, monitor delivery, and perform installation, as required, of printer, copier, and FAX supplies;
- As directed, assist in the maintenance of all school district hardware and software inventories;
- Oversees student aides, as needed;
- Troubleshoot, triage, and initiate requests for vendor support of reported cell phone, desk phone, and pager issues;
- Provide E-Mail User accounts and permissions support and maintenance;
- Perform website maintenance and updates;
- Provide back-up assistance for the person managing the Network and Server Systems;
- Follow, document, and assist in the development of departmental policies and procedures;
- Maintain a level of technical knowledge required to perform job responsibilities;
- Work on special projects and other tasks as assigned by the Superintendent of Schools
The above examples of duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL
CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of the operation of microcomputer and network hardware and peripheral equipment; good knowledge of microcomputer and network hardware and software products; good knowledge of security methods and procedures used in a computer system; ability to train user personnel in hardware use and procedures; ability to prepare training and instruction manuals on microcomputer and related network hardware operation; ability to identify and resolve hardware problems and deficiencies; ability to develop computer programs; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to understand and follow oral and written directions; ability to establish good working relationships with others; attention to detail; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Associate’s Degree in computer science or closely related field plus six (6) months microcomputer support experience; or
B. Completion of one (1) year of study in computer science or closely related field (15+ credit hours) plus 18 months microcomputer support experience; or
C. Two and one-half (2 1⁄2) years’ experience as a Microcomputer support of Help Desk Technician. Additional formal or specialized training (A+, Microsoft certificates, etc.) in microcomputer systems, applications, and networking will be considered; or
D. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined above.
Fort Plain mourns the passing of Michael Lee Gifford
Fort Plain Central School mourns the passing of Michael Lee Gifford, who taught elementary physical education from 1969-1996, when he retired from the district.
Many in the Fort Plain School community enjoyed having Mr. G as a gym teacher when they were children. He also coached several sports.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
For the full obituary, including details of Mr. Gifford’s many interests and life experiences, visit:
https://www.kilmerfuneralhome.com/memorials/michael-gifford/5150282/index.php
Leadership skill-building is on the agenda for FPHS student-athletes at Cooperstown conference
Six Fort Plain High School students will be participating in “Positive Leadership is Powerful Leadership: Diversity & Inclusion,” the 2023 Student-Athlete Leadership Conference, at the Clark Sports Center and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown on Friday, March 3.
FPHS juniors Brady Keane, Jasmine Fonda, Courtney Euler, Marissa Wilder, Kaeden David, Monika Kulczynski, and Coach John Fureno, accompanied by Director of Student Engagement & Athletics David Bertram, will be among 300 student-athletes and their athletic directors who will spend the day learning, exploring and building leadership skills.
Conference participants will represent nearly 50 school districts from throughout central New York.
According to Monica Wolfe, Cooperstown CSD leadership training for athletes advisor, “The leadership conference exists to foster a positive atmosphere and serve as a platform for student-athletes to recognize how leadership application in athletics affects their daily lives. In turn, that creates a ripple effect to be applied through the student-athlete’s life and shared with their teams/teammates, their schools and their community.”
The conference will feature several workshops as well as speakers, including keynote speaker SUNY Poly Chief Diversity Officer and Title IX Coordinator Dr. Mark Montgomery, Hall of Fame President Josh Rawitch, and Hall of Fame Director of Education Stephanie Hazzard.
Conference sponsors include the Center State Conference, Section III Athletics, NYSPHSAA, NYS AHPERD, Nimey’s New Generation, Advantage Sport and Fitness, Community Bank, American Dairy Association, Gates Cole Insurance, USA Racing, NYPC/Upstate/Bocca, NYCM, Leatherstocking Region FCU, Chobani, Stewart’s Shops, the Clark Sports Center and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.