Category: Archive
Join our team: Fort Plain CSD is hiring
Good schools make good communities—and are great places to work. Join our awesome Fort Plain Central School District team!
Fort Plain Central School District is hiring:
Instructional
Non-Instructional
- Clerk Typist (11-month)
- Computer Services Coordinator (12-month)
- Regular Run Bus Drivers (part-time, includes both AM and PM runs)
- Teacher Aides
Questions? Please contact the District Office at 518-993-4000, ext. 1000.
Visit our employment page to learn more about working for the Fort Plain Central School District.
Applications being accepted to fill Board of Education vacancy
The Fort Plain Board of Education is seeking to fill an opening on the board through June 30, 2026. The individual filling this vacancy could then run for a full, three-year term of service during the regular Board of Education election held in May 2026.
Interested individuals should contact Becky Smith, District Clerk, at becky.smith@fortplain.org by Sept. 9 at 2 p.m. to request an in-person interview with the board and district administration.
Board of Education responsibilities and eligibility
The Fort Plain Board of Education develops policies, rules and regulations for the operation of the school district and for the education and well-being of the district’s students.
Any U.S. citizen who has been a resident of the Fort Plain Central School District for 30 days or more is eligible to apply for this seat on the board.
Learn more about the responsibilities and characteristics of a board of education member.
2025-26 welcome letters from our principals
We are looking forward to welcoming our learners back for the start of the 2025-26 school year.
Students kindergarten through Grade 12 will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 3; pre-K students will begin on Thursday, Sept. 4.
Read the 2025-26 welcome letters from Harry Hoag Elementary School’s Principal Amy Bartholomew and Jr/Sr. High School Principal Katrina Canallatos:
2025 – 26 Jr./Sr. High School Welcome Letter
A welcome back message for Jr./Sr. High School families from Principal Katrina Canallatos:
Dear Hilltopper Families,
I hope this summer has given you time to relax, recharge, and enjoy family and friends. With the first day of school just around the corner, our team is excited to welcome students back and begin a year full of learning, growth, and new opportunities.
About Me
I am honored to be writing to you as the Principal of Fort Plain Jr.-Sr. High School. Many of you may know me from last year when I served as Interim Principal from January through June. On July 1st, I was officially appointed to continue in this role, and I could not be more excited to lead our school into the future. Before stepping into building leadership, I served as the FPCSD’s Director of Special Education since 2014. Prior to that, I worked as a special education teacher in the Greater Johnstown School District and at St. Colman’s Home in Watervliet. My career has always been rooted in supporting students and families, and I carry that same dedication with me as principal. As both an educator and a parent, I value creating a school where all students feel seen, supported, and able to reach their full potential. I truly value and recognize the importance of building strong partnerships between school and home, as they are essential in creating a community where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired.
School Day
The first day of school for students will be Wednesday, September 3rd. Buses will begin dropping off students at 7:30 a.m., and families dropping off or walking should plan to arrive between 7:30 and 7:50 a.m. Students should not arrive at school earlier than 7:30, as the doors will be closed and no supervision is available before that time. We want to make sure every student is safe and comfortable, particularly on mornings with rain, snow, or very cold weather. The instructional day begins at 7:50 a.m., and students arriving after 8:00 a.m. will be marked tardy. Dismissal is at 2:36 p.m.
Transportation
Families picking up students at dismissal should use the parent drop-off/pick-up loop located in the visitor parking lot on the right-hand side as you enter the high school campus. Please refrain from driving into the bus loop in the front of the building, as this area is reserved for buses only.
Parent pick-up will begin immediately following bus dismissal at 2:36 p.m. Before the first day of school, we ask all students and families to review the Ride with Pride expectations and the Code of Conduct.
These guidelines set the foundation for safe transportation and a respectful learning environment, and they will be sent electronically via ParentSquare for your review and acknowledgment. If you have any questions about bus routes, pick-up or drop-off times, or transportation needs, please contact the Transportation Office at 518-993-4000, ext. 3059.
Attendance Matters
Regular school attendance is one of the most important factors in a student’s success. Every day in class provides valuable instruction, discussion, and experiences that cannot be replaced. Students are expected to be in school on time each day unless they are ill or have an excused absence. Families can help by establishing consistent morning routines, planning appointments outside of school hours whenever possible, and scheduling vacations when school is not in session. If your child must be absent, please notify the Main Office that morning and provide a written note upon their return. Together, we can build positive attendance habits that support strong academic achievement.
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices
To keep classrooms focused and distraction-free, students will be asked to power down their cell phones and place them in a NuKase pouch at the start of the day. In accordance with New York Education Law, devices will need to remain secured until dismissal. If you need to reach your child during the school day, please contact the main office and we will deliver the message promptly. We appreciate your support in helping us create an environment centered on learning.
Technology
Students in grades 7 through 12 will each be issued a Chromebook for use both at school and at home. Families and students will be asked to review and sign a Technology User Agreement before devices are distributed. This ensures that expectations for responsible use are clear and consistent.
Clubs, Athletics, and Extracurriculars
At Fort Plain Jr.-Sr. High School, we believe that learning extends well beyond the classroom walls. Students are encouraged to get involved in the many clubs, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities available. From sports teams and student government to drama, music, and service organizations, there is truly something for everyone. Participation not only builds friendships and school spirit but also helps students develop leadership, teamwork, and time management skills.
Please check out the expansive list of club and extracurricular options and athletics on the school website.
Communication
Communication between home and school is an essential part of student success. Please make sure your contact information is updated so you receive all notices through our ParentSquare messaging system. We also encourage you to visit the district website and follow our social media accounts for the most current updates, news, and events.
Questions or Concerns
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the High School Main Office at (518) 993-4000 or by email at katrina.canallatos@fortplain.org.
We hope you enjoy the final days of summer, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Sept. 3 for an amazing new school year.
Warm regards,
Katrina Canallatos
Principal
Fort Plain Jr.-Sr. High School
September 2025 Menus
Breakfast and lunch are available free of charge each school day for all Fort Plain students, pre-kindergarten through high school.
September 2025 Menus
School breakfast is: brain power for learning, nutrition for growth, fuel for sports and P.E.!
Menus are subject to change without notice.
The USDA and this institution are equal opportunity employers and providers.
Harry Hoag Elementary School Menus
Pre-K
Daily breakfast includes: fruit, juice and low fat and fat-free milk.
Daily lunch includes: fruit choice and low fat and fat-free milk.
Alternate lunches: PB&J sandwich or yogurt w/rolls.
Breakfast and Lunch
Wednesday, Sept. 3
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Bacon, Cheeseburger, Corn, Fruit
Thursday, Sept. 4
- Breakfast: Cereal
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, Baked Beans, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 5
- Breakfast: Eggs & Sausage
- Lunch: Pizza, Broccoli, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 8
- Breakfast: Mini Bagel Pack
- Lunch: Turkey Club, Pasta Salad, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 9
- Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick
- Lunch: Corn Dog, Baked Beans, Jello w/mandarins
Wednesday, Sept. 10
- Breakfast: Omelet & Sausages
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun. Celery Sticks, Strawberries w/cream
Thursday, Sept. 11
- Breakfast: Cereal
- Lunch: Warm Ham & Cheese Bagel, Smile Fries, Peas, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 12
- Breakfast: Blueberry Muffin
- Lunch: Pizza Crunchers, Dinner Roll, Broccoli, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 15
- Breakfast: Bagel Bar
- Lunch: Chicken Nuggets, Garlic Knot, Cooked Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 16
- Breakfast: Cereal
- Lunch: Calzone, Green Beans, Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 17
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Grilled Chicken on a Bun, Baked Beans, Fruit
Thursday, Sept. 18
- Breakfast: Pumpkin Bread
- Lunch: Cheese Filled Pizza Stick, Tossed Salad, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 19
- Breakfast: Croissant & Omelet
- Lunch: Baked Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 22
- Breakfast: Muffin Top
- Ham or Tuna Sub, Cooked Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 23
- Breakfast: Pancakes & Sausage
- Lunch: Stuffed Pizza Sandwich, Cheese Stick, Celery Sticks & Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 24
- Breakfast: Cereal
- Breakfast Sandwich, Mini Hashbrowns, Fruit & Juice
Thursday, Sept. 25
- Breakfast: Banana Bread
- Lunch: Pasta with Meatballs, Tossed Salad, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 26
- Breakfast: Eggs & Sausage
- Lunch: Turkey & Cheese Wrap, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 29
- Breakfast: Mini Bagel Pack
- Lunch: Popcorn Chicken, Dinner Roll, Peas & Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 30
- Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick
- Lunch: Taco Salad, Street Corn, Fruit
Wednesday, Oct. 1
- Breakfast: Omelet & Sausages
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, BBQ Beans, Fruit
Thursday, Oct. 2
- Breakfast: Banana Muffin
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Friday, Oct. 3
- Breakfast: Cereal
- Lunch: Pizza, Broccoli, Fruit
Elementary
Daily breakfast includes: fruit, juice and low fat and fat-free milk.
Alternate breakfast: yogurt or cereal with graham crackers.
Daily lunch includes: fruit choice and low fat and fat-free milk.
Alternate lunches: PB&J sandwich or yogurt w/rolls.
Breakfast and Lunch
Wednesday, Sept. 3
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Bacon Cheeseburger, Cheese Crackers, Corn, Fruit
Thursday, Sept. 4
- Breakfast: Funnel Cake
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, MultiGrain SunChips, Baked Beans, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 5
- Breakfast: Eggs & Sausage
- Lunch: Pizza, Parmesan Pasta, Broccoli, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 8
- Breakfast: Mini Bagel Pack
- Lunch: Turkey Club, Pasta Salad, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 9
- Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick
- Lunch: Corn Dog, Pasta Salad, Baked Beans, Jello w/mandarins
Wednesday, Sept. 10
- Breakfast: Omelet & Sausages
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun, Rice Pilaf, Celery Sticks, Strawberries w/cream
Thursday, Sept. 11
- Breakfast: Cereal & Granola Bar
- Lunch: Warm Ham & Cheese Bagel, Smile Fries, Peas, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 12
- Breakfast: Muffins
- Lunch: Pizza Crunchers, Dinner Roll, Broccoli, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 15
- Breakfast: Bagel Bar
- Lunch: Chicken Nuggets, Garlic Knot, Cooked Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 16
- Breakfast: French Toast Sticks
- Lunch: Calzone, Bowties w/marinara, Green Beans, Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 17
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Grilled Chicken on a Bun, Baked Beans, Fruit, Cookie
Thursday, Sept. 18
- Breakfast: Pumpkin Bread
- Lunch: Cheese Filled Pizza Sticks, Buttered Pasta, Tossed Salad, Fruit
Friday, Sept. 19
- Breakfast: Croissant & Omelet
- Lunch: Baked Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 22
- Breakfast: Cereal & Muffin Top
- Lunch: Ham or Tuna Sub, Pretzels, Cooked Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 23
- Breakfast: Bk: Pancakes & Sausage
- Lunch: Stuffed Pizza Sandwich, Cheese Stick, Celery Sticks, Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 24
- Breakfast: Funnel Cake
- Lunch: Breakfast Sandwich, Mini Hashbrowns, Fruit & Juice
Thursday, Sept. 25
- Breakfast: French Toast Bites
- Lunch: Pasta with Meatballs, Tossed Salad, Fruit, Pudding
Friday, Sept. 26
- Breakfast: Eggs & Sausage
- Lunch: Turkey & Cheese Wrap, Goldfish Crackers, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 29
- Breakfast: Mini Bagel Pack
- Lunch: Popcorn Chicken, Dinner Roll, Peas & Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 30
- Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick
- Lunch: Taco Salad, Fiesta Rice, Street Corn, Fruit
Wednesday, Oct. 1
- Breakfast: Omelet & Sausages
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, French Fries, BBQ Beans, Fruit
Thursday, Oct. 2
- Breakfast: Muffins
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun, Chips, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Friday, Oct. 3
- Breakfast: Waffle Dippers
- Lunch: Pizza, Parmesan Pasta, Broccoli, Fruit
Jr./Sr. High School
Daily breakfast includes: fruit, juice and low fat and fat-free milk.
Alternate breakfast: yogurt or cereal with graham crackers.
Alternate: build-your-own-lunch at the Fresh Bar. Includes entrée options, grain sides, fresh fruits & vegetables.
Breakfast and Lunch
Wednesday, Sept. 3
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Bacon Cheeseburger, Cheese Crackers, Corn & Fruit Choice
Thursday, Sept. 4
- Breakfast: Funnel Cake
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, MultiGrain SunChips, Baked Beans & Fruit
Friday, Sept. 5
- Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwich
- Lunch: Pizza, Parmesan Pasta, Broccoli & Fruit Choice
Monday, Sept. 8
- Breakfast: Whole Grain Donut
- Lunch: Turkey Club, Pasta Salad, Baby Carrots & Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 9
- Breakfast: Tornado/Bk Stick
- Lunch: Corn Dog, Pasta Salad, BBQ Beans, Jello w/oranges
Wednesday, Sept. 10
- Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwich
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun, Rice Pilaf, Celery Sticks, Strawberries w/cream
Thursday, Sept. 11
- Breakfast: Muffins
- Warm Ham & Cheese Bagel, Smile Fries, Peas & Fruit Choice
Friday, Sept. 12
- Breakfast: Cereal & Granola Bar
- Lunch: Pizza Crunchers, Dinner Roll, Broccoli & Fruit Choice
Monday, Sept. 15
- Breakfast: Bagel Bar
- Lunch: Chicken Nuggets, Garlic Knot, Cooked Carrots & Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 16
- Breakfast: French Toast Sticks
- Lunch: Cheese Calzone, Bowties with Marinara, Green Beans & Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 17
- Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza
- Lunch: Grilled Chicken on a Bun, Baked Beans, Fruit & Cookie
Thursday, Sept. 18
- Breakfast: Pumpkin Bread
- Lunch: Pizza Stick, Buttered Pasta, Tossed Salad & Fruit
Friday, Sept. 19
- Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwich
- Lunch: Baked Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Fruit Choice
Monday, Sept. 22
- Breakfast: Cereal & Muffin Top
- Lunch: Ham or Tuna Sub, Pretzels, Cooked Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 23
- Breakfast: Pancakes & Sausage
- Lunch: Pizza Sandwich, Cheese Stick, Celery Sticks, Fruit
Wednesday, Sept. 24
- Breakfast: Funnel Cake
- Breakfast Sandwich, Mini Hashbrowns, Fruit & Juice
Thursday, Sept. 25
- Breakfast: French Toast Bites
- Lunch: Pasta with Meatballs, Tossed Salad, Fruit, Pudding
Friday, Sept. 26
- Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwich
- Lunch: Turkey Wrap, Goldfish Crackers, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Monday, Sept. 29
- Breakfast: Bagel Bar
- Lunch: Popcorn Chicken, Dinner Roll, Peas & Carrots, Fruit
Tuesday, Sept. 30
- Breakfast: Tornado/Bk Stick
- Lunch: Taco Salad, Fiesta Rice, Street Corn, Fruit
Wednesday, Oct. 1
- Breakfast: Omelet & Sausages
- Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun, French Fries, BBQ Beans, Fruit
Thursday, Oct. 2
- Breakfast: Muffins
- Lunch: Chicken Patty on a Bun, Chips, Baby Carrots, Fruit
Friday, Oct. 3
- Breakfast: Waffle Dippers
- Lunch: Pizza, Parmesan Pasta, Broccoli, Fruit
2025-26 Harry Hoag Elementary School welcome letter
A welcome-back message for Harry Hoag Elementary School families from Principal Amy Bartholomew:
Dear Hilltopper Families,
I hope you have all had a wonderful summer! It’s been great seeing many of you around the community, and for those I’ve missed, I look forward to welcoming you back in a few short weeks. Our faculty and staff are excited for another fantastic year filled with learning, growth, and new memories for our students.
Below you will find a summary of information that will be helpful when planning ahead for the coming school year. Please note: the first day of school for students will be Wednesday, Sept. 3.
School schedule
Arrival:
7:30 a.m. – Bus drop-off.
7:30 – 7:50 a.m. – Parent drop-off and walkers.
Instructional day for students:
7:50 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. – students are marked tardy after 8:05 a.m.
Dismissal:
2:30 p.m. – Bus dismissal.
2:35 p.m. – Parent pick-up begins.
Bus riders
Please be sure to review the Ride with Pride and Code of Conduct documents with your children before the first day of school. They will be sent shortly in a separate message to electronically sign.
Student pick-up at dismissal
After the buses depart, Parent Pick Up will begin. If you are early for Parent Pick Up, please park along the road to Wiles Park. For both Student Drop Off in the morning and Pick Up in the afternoon, please remain in your car and a staff member will guide traffic through the bus loop to the main entry. If you pick up your child on foot, please report to the Main Entry.
Cell phones
To keep our school day focused on learning, we ask that all students keep smartphones, internet-enabled devices, and headphones put away during the day. For our youngest learners in second grade and below, we encourage families to have these items stay at home whenever possible.
In accordance with New York Education Law §2801, students who do bring devices to school will be asked to power them down at the start of the day, and they will be kept in a secure storage cabinet until dismissal. If you ever need to reach your child, please call the main office. We’ll be happy to get your message to them right away. Thank you for partnering with us to make our classrooms calm, focused spaces for all children.
Technology
- Pre-K, kindergarten and Grade 1 students will receive iPads that will remain in the classroom.
- Students in Grades 2-6 will receive a Chromebook that can go to and from school.
- Caregivers and students (Grade 1 and above) will be asked to sign a Technology User Agreement.
Parent communication and student information forms
Please be sure to have an updated cell phone number and email address to receive information via our ParentSquare messaging system. Also, remember to visit our website and social media platforms regularly for current news and upcoming events. In addition, please update and return any student information forms that have been sent home.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel to reach me in the Main Office at 518-993-4000 or via email at amy.bartholomew@fortplain.org.
We hope you enjoy the rest of your summer and look forward to seeing you on September 3rd!
Mrs. Bartholomew, Principal
Harry Hoag Elementary School
Additional 2025 -26 school year resources:
View the 2025-26 Prekindergarten Welcome Letter
View the 2025-26 Grade 5 Welcome Letter
2025-26 sixth grade welcome letter
A welcome-back message for Harry Hoag Elementary School sixth graders and their families from Principal Amy Bartholomew:
Summer 2025
Dear Families of Sixth Graders,
We look forward to the return of our students on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025!
Sixth grade uses a departmentalized model to provide instruction. Like they did last year in fifth grade, homeroom groups will travel to different classrooms to receive instruction in the core subjects as assigned below:
- Mrs. Parker will teach English Language Arts.
- Mrs. Bargstedt will teach Mathematics.
- Mrs. Souza will teach Social Studies/Science.
- Ms. Short will teach Special Education and Interventions.
Grade 6 Schedule
7:50 – 8:15 a.m. – All students will be in their homeroom (Mrs. Parker, Mrs. Bargstedt, Mrs. Souza)
M, W, F – Band students will report to band
8:15 – 8:45 a.m. – Tiered Intervention Time (small group work)
8:48 – 9:55 – CLASS 1: Math (Bargstedt HR), ELA (Parker HR), Soc Studies/Science (Souza HR)
9:57 – 11:04 a.m. – CLASS 2: Social Studies/Science (Parker HR), Math (Souza HR), ELA (Bargstedt’s HR)
11:06 – 11:32 a.m. – CLASS 3 (Part 1): ELA (Souza HR), Social Studies/ Science (Bargstedt HR), Math (Parker HR)
11:35 – 12:05 LUNCH
12:05 – 12:20 RECESS
12:23 – 1:03 p.m. SPECIAL #1
- Souza HR: PE (M), Library or Optional Chorus (T), Music, (W), Art (Th), Character Ed (F)
- Bargstedt HR: Tech (M), Art (T), Tech (W), Library or Optional Chorus (Th), Music (F)
- Parker HR: Music or Optional Chorus (M), Tech (T), Art (W), Tech (Th), Library (F)
Please note: In sixth grade, students are not required to take chorus, but they have the exciting option to sign up if it interests them. To ensure students are fully prepared for the winter and spring concerts, those who join must commit to two full quarters. Students not taking chorus will participate in either a music or library class, depending on their homeroom. We will allow your child to make the decision to join chorus; however, if you would prefer to make the choice for your child, please contact their homeroom teacher directly to let them know.
1:06 – 1:46 p.m. – CLASS 3 (Part 2): ELA (Souza HR), Soc Studies/ Science (Bargstedt HR), Math (Parker HR)
1:49 – 2:29 p.m. – SPECIAL #2
- Souza HR: Tech (M, T, W), PE (Th, F)
- Bargstedt HR: PE (M, T, W), Tech (Th), Character Ed (F)
- Parker HR: PE (M, T, W), Character Ed. (Th),Tech (F)
Please reach out if you have any questions. See you soon!
Mrs. Bartholomew, Principal
Harry Hoag Elementary School
2025-26 fifth grade welcome letter
A welcome-back message for Harry Hoag Elementary School fifth graders and their families from Principal Amy Bartholomew:
Summer 2025
Dear Families of Fifth Graders,
We look forward to the return of our students on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025!
In fifth grade, our team uses a departmentalized model to provide instruction. Homeroom groups will travel to different classrooms to receive instruction in the core subjects as assigned below:
- Ms. Gorinshek will teach English Language Arts.
- Mrs. VanGorder will teach Mathematics.
- Ms. Lacetera will teach Social Studies/Science.
- Mrs. Yestremski will teach Special Education and Interventions.
Grade 5 Schedule
7:50 – 8:15 a.m. – All students will be in their homeroom (Mrs. VanGorder, Ms. Gorinshek, Ms. Lacetera)
8:15 – 8:45 a.m. – Tiered Intervention Time (small group work)
8:48 – 9:28 SPECIAL #1:
- VanGorder’s HR: PE (M, T, W), Art (Th), Tech (F)
- Gorinshek’s HR: Tech (M), PE (T,W), Tech (Th), Art (F)
- Lacetera’s HR: Character Ed (M), Tech (T,W), PE (Th), Library (F)
9:31 – 10:38 a.m.:
- Math (VanGorder’s HR)
- ELA (Ms. Gorinshek’s HR)
- Soc Studies/Science (Ms. Lacetera’s HR)
10:40 – 11:47 a.m.:
- ELA (Mrs. VanGorder’s HR)
- Soc Studies/Science (Ms. Gorinshek’s HR)
- Math (Ms. Lacetera’s HR)
11:50 – 12:20 LUNCH
12:23 – 1:03 p.m.
- VanGorder’s HR: Library (M,), Chorus (T), Character Ed (W), Chorus (Th) Tech (F)
- Gorinshek’s HR: Character Ed (M), Chorus (T), Library (W), Chorus (Th), PE (F)
- Lacetera’s HR: Art (M), Chorus (T), PE (W), Chorus (Th) PE ( F)
1:06 – 2:14 p.m.:
- Social Studies/Science (Mrs. VanGorder’s HR)
- Math (Ms. Gorinshek’s HR)
- ELA (Ms. Lacetera’s HR)
2:15 – 2:30 – RECESS
Please reach out if you have any questions. See you soon!
Mrs. Bartholomew, Principal
Harry Hoag Elementary School
2025-26 pre-K welcome letter
A welcome-back message for Harry Hoag Elementary School prekindergarten families from Principal Amy Bartholomew:
Welcome to our prekindergarten family!
We are so excited for the year ahead and can’t wait to get to know both you and your child. I’m Mrs. Bartholomew, Principal of Harry Hoag Elementary. Fort Plain has always been home to me, and I’ve been part of our district for 19 years—as both a teacher and now as principal. I feel so lucky to work alongside such caring families, dedicated staff, and bright, curious students each day.
Our Prekindergarten program is a very special place. It’s where your child will make their first school friends, learn new routines, explore through play, and discover just how fun learning can be. Our teachers create warm, welcoming classrooms where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
View and download a copy of the 2025-26 Prekindergarten Handbook.
Preparing your child for a successful start to school
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine during the last week of August.
- Talk to your child about what to expect at school to help ease the separation process.
- Develop a habit of checking backpacks daily for notes, papers, and communications from school.
Important Dates
First Day of School for Prekindergarten: Thursday, Sept. 4. Please note: K-6 students begin one day earlier on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Prekindergarten Visitation Day: Wednesday, Sept. 3
This casual visit lasts about 15 minutes. Children can drop off supplies, see their classroom, and meet their teacher.
- Students with last names beginning with the letters A-K are invited to visit anytime between 9 – 9:30 a.m.
- Students with last names beginning with the letters L-Z are invited to visit anytime from 9:30-10 a.m.
School schedule
7:30-7:40 a.m — Bus rider drop-off .
7:30 – 7:50 a.m. — Parent drop-off. PreK students will wait in the library before school.
7:50 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Instructional day.
2:30 p.m. — Bus rider dismissal.
2:35 p.m. — Parent pick-up begins.
For morning arrival, you are welcome to park in the parking lot to walk your child into the building. You are also able to drive through the parent drop off line to drop your child off. To drop off and pick up in the parent car line, please remain in your car. A staff member will be out in the parking lot to guide traffic and to let your child know when it is safe to cross. If you are early for Parent Pick Up, please park along the road to Wiles Park. If you pick up your child on foot, please also report to the Main Entry.
Transportation to and from school will be provided by the school bus for any students who are 4 years of age. If your child begins the school year as a 3 year old, he/she must be transported by an adult until he/she comes of age to be eligible to ride the bus per NYS Law.
Supply List
Please label clothes, blanket and backpack with your child’s name.
- Backpack large enough to hold a folder.
- Blanket for naptime.
- Labeled baggie with 2 sets of clothes (one set for warm weather and one set for colder weather.)
- Optional items to donate to the classroom: tissues, paper towels, glue sticks, dry-erase markers.
I know the first day of school can bring a mix of excitement and nerves—for both children and parents. Please know that our entire staff is here to make your child’s transition into school a happy and positive one. They will have the best time with the most loving teachers! We look forward to seeing your little one’s smile in the hallways very soon!
See you soon!
Mrs. Bartholomew, Principal
Harry Hoag Elementary
Fort Plain CSD Announces Interim Superintendent – Dr. Karen Geelan
The Fort Plain Central School District Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Karen Geelan as Interim Superintendent of Schools, effective Aug. 15, 2025.
Dr. Geelan brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership as an elementary principal, high school principal and as a superintendent of schools. Since retiring, Dr. Geelan has successfully served as interim superintendent in both the Olean City School District and the Greater Johnstown School District.
“Dr. Geelan is adept at leading school communities through periods of transition,” commented David Ziskin, HFM BOCES District Superintendent. “Students are her top priority and she is deeply committed to staff collaboration and community engagement. Dr. Geelan is familiar with our region. During her time in Johnstown, she was a valuable contributor to our regional leadership team as we collectively struggled with the uncertain conditions created by the pandemic.”
As the district transitions following the departure of Superintendent Lauren Crisman, who will be leaving in late August to become the superintendent in the Mount Markham Central School District, the FPCSD Board of Education sought a steady, resolute leader.
“The Board is confident that Karen Geelan’s expertise and thoughtful approach will support our students, staff and families during this important time,” stated Fort Plain Board of Education President Sara McDuffee.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Geelan to the Fort Plain community.