Category: Archive
Board of Education Meeting – August 21
The Fort Plain Board of Education will hold its regular meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024 beginning at 6 p.m.
A joint meeting of the Canajoharie CSD and Fort Plain CSD boards of education with a presentation about the Merger Feasibility Study will be held prior to the Fort Plain CSD board meeting.
The meeting will take place in the Harry Hoag Elementary School Gymnasium, 25 High Street, Fort Plain, N.Y.
View the FPCSD Board of Education – Aug. 21, 2024 meeting agenda.
Looking toward the 2024-25 school year: a message from Superintendent Lauren Crisman
Dear Fort Plain School Community,
I hope this letter finds you refreshed from summer vacation and ready to enjoy an exciting year of learning. We are eagerly awaiting the return of our students!
2024-25 back-to-school information
The first day of school for students kindergarten through Grade 12 is on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Pre-kindergarten begins on Thursday, Sept. 5.
The doors will open in both school buildings at 7:30 a.m. The instructional day begins at 7:50 a.m. for Harry Hoag Elementary School and at 7:55 a.m. for the Jr./Sr. High School.
FPCSD proudly welcomes several new faculty and staff members to our school team; be sure to watch the district website for introductions.
Fostering success for all students
Our goal is to prepare every student for success beyond graduation. Our graduates should be able to define what success means to them and feel confident when they leave that they are ready to navigate the dynamic and ever-changing world.
We believe that every child has their own distinct strengths, interests and learning styles. We are dedicated to creating a school experience that honors their individuality.
Improving learning outcomes for all students is one of our district’s enduring goals. Strong school-based intervention systems play a key role in achieving this. Intervention is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process and should be accessible for all.
Throughout the year, the administrative team will regularly assess our current intervention systems to analyze when and what screening tools are used to monitor achievement, what evidence-based practices are used to respond to needs, and how academic progress is reviewed and communicated.
Feasibility Study update
Additionally, the district remains committed to ensuring the responsible use of its fiscal and human resources. The Feasibility Study we are now engaged in with the Canajoharie CSD will include a comprehensive review of how fiscal and human resources are allocated. The results of this analysis will help us chart the best path forward to ensure our students
receive a high quality education and a diverse continuum of other student experiences into the future.
Learn more about the Canajoharie and Fort Plain CSD Feasibility Study to explore a potential merger.
Capital Improvement Project addresses needed work and upgrades
On Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024 community members will be asked to vote on a Capital Improvement Project. Regardless of the outcome of the Feasibility Study, the district must move forward with efforts to keep our facilities safe and modern. These buildings serve not only school-based programs, but are utilized year-round by many community-based organizations for the enrichment activities they offer youth.
The proposed scope of work includes upgrading electronic systems to promote efficiency and decrease annual costs associated with energy use. It also addresses areas in need of repair or replacement in all of the facilities and on the exterior sites of the campus.
This revised project was prepared in an effort to maximize state aid reimbursement and will not have any impact on the local tax levy.
A public hearing for the proposed project will be held on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024 in the District Office Conference Room.
There will also be a community walk-through on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024. This will be open to the public and offered by representatives from King + King Architects.
All who are interested in learning more about the proposed project are encouraged to join us at these events. Information regarding both will be posted on the district website in September.
I am excited about the many possibilities that the new school year holds and eager to see our hallways filled with students once again.
Thank you to all for your ongoing support and partnership!
Wishing you well,
Lauren H. Crisman, Superintendent
Welcome Amy Bartholomew, Acting Principal of Harry Hoag
On Tuesday, July 30, 2024, the Fort Plain Board of Education voted to appoint Amy Bartholomew to the position of Acting Principal of Harry Hoag Elementary for the 2024-25 school year.
A longtime teacher at Harry Hoag Elementary, graduate of Fort Plain schools and life-long resident of the community, Amy Bartholomew has a strong commitment to Fort Plain.
“Amy’s breadth of experience and commitment to ensuring that every learner thrives is sure to benefit the students and families in the Harry Hoag community,” said Superintendent Lauren Crisman. “We are pleased to welcome Amy into this new role and to offer this opportunity for her to learn with us and grow as a leader through this principalship.”
About Amy Bartholomew
Amy Bartholomew has taught for more than 22 years, 18 of which have been spent at Fort Plain’s Harry Hoag Elementary. She has taught students pre-K through grade 6, as well as those in special education.
This school year, Bartholomew and her sixth graders launched the “Our Words Matter” project at Harry Hoag Elementary. Students approached Bartholomew with the idea of learning to become strong advocates for their peers, particularly those who may be underrepresented or experiencing hurtful treatment from others. Together, the group worked toward being agents for positive change in the school.
Bartholomew has also lent her support and guidance as a mentor of new teachers for the past 12 years.
Bartholomew holds an undergraduate degree in Elementary and Special Education from Syracuse University and a master’s degree in Reading from the University of Albany. She currently holds an internship certificate, which allows her to function in the capacity of school building leader through the end of the 2024-25 year. Bartholomew is working toward a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership from Binghamton University, which she will complete this December.
“When I began my transition into administration, my goal and dream was to one day become the principal at Harry Hoag Elementary School,” said Bartholomew. “I am sincerely honored by the opportunity to step into this role and serve the school community as we work together toward our shared goal of creating a safe, welcoming and enriching environment where all of our learners can shine.”
Board of Education meeting and retreat – July 30
The Fort Plain Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting and annual board retreat on July 30, 2024, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Ronald H. Thibodeau Conference Room in the District Office, 25 High Street, Fort Plain, N.Y.
NYSED mixed competition and extra class athletics – public comment
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) has proposed amendments to sections of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education relating to Mixed Competition and Extra Class Athletic Activities.
The proposal would open opportunities for boys to play on girls’ sports teams and girls to play on boys’ sports teams.
Students, parents and community members are encouraged to carefully review the proposed amendments and submit comments before July 21, 2024.
About the proposed amendment – for review
Proposed Amendment of Sections 135.1, 135.4, and 135.5 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Relating to Mixed Competition and Extra Class Athletic Activities
Public comments with data, views or arguments may be sent to:
Angelique Johnson-Dingle
Deputy Commissioner
NYS Education Department
Office of P-12 Education
55 Hanson Place
Brooklyn, NY 11217
(718) 722-2797
or sent by email: REGCOMMENTS@nysed.gov
Thank you for your leadership of Harry Hoag, Mrs. Coppolo!
Dear Fort Plain CSD community,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to share an important update regarding the leadership of Harry Hoag Elementary School. Mrs. Coppolo, our building principal, has accepted a position in her hometown. I am grateful for her dedication and service to FPCSD. We wish her well in her new role.
I am working closely with the Board of Education to ensure that a strong leadership presence succeeds Mrs. Coppolo. We are developing a one year plan to hire a strong candidate who is dedicated to supporting student learning, advancing our district goals and fostering staff development, all in alignment with our district mission.
More information regarding the plan for Harry Hoag leadership will be shared prior to the end of July.
Thank you for your continued support.
Fondly,
Mrs. Crisman
Call for participants: Feasibility Study Focus Groups
Greetings FPCSD School Community,
The following letter is regarding the Feasibility Study and a recruitment campaign for stakeholder participation in Focus Groups. Learn more about the Canajoharie and Fort Plain CSD Feasibility Study to explore a potential merger.
Advisory Committee
We will appoint representatives to an Advisory Committee at the end of the month. Applications to participate on that committee are still being accepted.
Please fill out the form below if you are interested in serving on the Advisory Committee:
ThoughtExchange for community input
In addition, we launched the ThoughtExchange to gather community input. Read about the Feasibility Study and access the link to participate with its ThoughtExchange.
Focus Group discussions
Lastly, we are now looking to recruit people to participate in Focus Group discussions; participation requires a one time only commitment. The goal of the groups will be to have discussions to harvest perspectives, experiences, and perceptions.
Focus groups will contain 8-10 people in each, with balanced membership among stakeholders (community members, families, faculty, staff and students) and districts. The participants will be encouraged to provide commentary related to the current perceptions, understandings and beliefs about the merger study.
There will be three sessions:
- Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Canajoharie High School
- Tuesday Aug. 20 from 5-6 p.m. at Canajoharie High School
- Wednesday, Aug. 21 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Fort Plain Elementary School
If you would like to be considered to participate in a Focus Group discussion, please fill out the google form in the link below by Thursday, Aug 8.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1sjg7tEdqbyZ2aw9T6IgWSi5gOEEejFJ3m5oDgUJe0d8/prefill
Wishing everyone well,
Mrs. Lauren Crisman, Superintendent
Join the conversation: Canajoharie and Fort Plain feasibility study
In the coming months, the Canajoharie and Fort Plain Central School Districts will be taking part in a feasibility study to explore possible consolidation of the two districts. Read about the feasibility study and apply to participate in the Feasibility Advisory Committee.
The study will focus on three main categories: educational experiences, organizational capacity and financial sustainability.
This study will include the gathering of community members’ thoughts, experiences and perspectives regarding a potential merger.
Canajoharie and Fort Plain CSD feasibility study Thought Exchange
To facilitate a meaningful and inclusive dialogue, the district are utilizing ThoughtExchange, a web based platform to gather diverse viewpoints from all stakeholders.
Once you enter the platform, there will be directions to prompt you on how to engage. You have the ability to make independent comments and/or you can review and rate other comments.
The Canajoharie and Fort Plain districts value this input and believe the community’s participation will be instrumental in shaping the future.
Thank you for contributing to this important conversation!
Feasibility Study update and Advisory Committee application
Greetings FPCSD School Community,
During this past spring, both the Canajoharie and Fort Plain Boards of Education voted to engage in a Feasibility Study to explore a potential merger. We thank Assemblyman Smullen for providing aid to cover part of the cost of the study. In addition, we have applied for a grant to cover the rest of the cost.
The study will begin in June of 2024 and culminate in January of 2025, ending with a presentation of the findings for the communities. The consultant firm conducting the study will be onsite to assess and analyze operations in both districts and to facilitate several stakeholder meetings during the upcoming months for the purpose of gathering information. In addition, community engagement opportunities will be offered through Thought Exchange, a web-based communication system where stakeholders can freely share comments.
A secondary website will be created soon to allow the public to access all of the study related materials. Please look for this link to appear on the top of both school districts’ homepages.
If you wish to be considered to serve on the Feasibility Advisory Committee, please complete the application at the link posted below. Applicants must commit to attend all of the meetings. Meetings will be held on August 21, September 12, October 17, November 14 and December 12 from 3:30-5:30 at either Canajoharie CSD or Fort Plain CSD.
Feasibility Advisory Committee application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIVgpL3R8asx-e-FzMK5G87xW7RUAozgfHnwmoOAb7qtM6Mg/viewform?usp=sf_link
Once the findings are published, the communities will have to vote on whether or not to move forward with the merger. The first vote will most likely occur near the end of January. If the vote in January shows support, then there will be a second, final referendum vote tentatively scheduled to be held in March of 2025.
During February and March, additional stakeholder meetings will be scheduled to foster more discussions about the advantages and concerns related to merging. If the final vote is approved in March of 2025, the merger action will occur in July of 2026.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions and feel free to share this information with all members of our community.
Community engagement will be highly valued throughout this process.
Thank you for your ongoing support!
Take good care,
Mrs. Crisman
Feasibility Study Timeline
Feasibility Study for the Purpose of Centralization.
Proposal for Canajoharie Central School District and Fort Plain Central School District.
Requested Revised Timeline for Standard Tier:
May 2024—Approval of Contract & Coordination of Logistics.
June 2024—Initial Document Review Request & In-take Process; Commence Advisory Committee Recruitment; Deploy Community Engagement Exchange 1.
July 2024—Continue Document Review & Logistical Planning
Advisory Committee Appointed.
August 2024—Initial Site Visit to both Districts – 2 days of tours, meetings, & interviews; Stakeholder Focus Groups; Kick-Off Presentation of Joint Meeting of the Boards of Education; Advisory Committee Meeting 1 – Overview & Kick-Off.
September 2024—Advisory Committee Meeting 2 – Educational Experiences (virtual).
October 2024—Deploy Community Engagement Exchange 2; Advisory Committee Meeting 3 – Organizational Capacity (virtual)
November 2024—Advisory Committee Meeting 4 – Financial Sustainability (virtual).
December 2024—Advisory Committee Meeting 5 – Draft Report; Submit Draft Report to NYSED for Review.
January 2025—Final Report Presentation to Joint Meeting of Boards of Education; Deploy Community Engagement Exchange 3; Advisory Referendum
March 2025—Final Referendum.
July 1, 2026—Anticipated New School District Begins Operation Pending NYSED Confirmation.
*Discussions to-date indicate that with a March 2025 Referendum, a case may be made by the District Superintendent to recommend that the new district begin operation on July 1, 2026.
Celebrating the Class of 2024
On June 22, the Fort Plain Jr./Sr. High School Class of 2024 received their diplomas, turned their tassels and walked off the graduation stage and into the next exciting chapters of their lives.
Hundreds of friends, family and community members were on hand to cheer the seniors and their many accomplishments.
Throughout the ceremony, seniors were encouraged to bask in their success, to dream in big ways and to remember to find the joys—big and small—in each day.
Congratulations to our seniors. We’re proud of each of you, Hilltoppers!
Celebrating the Class of 2024
Join us in celebrating our Class of 2024 with our graduation photo album, Top 10 Seniors video, which premiered at graduation, and Senior Spotlight, which was displayed in the high school lobby, shared with our families, highlighted on morning announcements and shared on social media.
Class of 2024 Senior Spotlights
Photo gallery of highlights from the 2024 Fort Plain High School Graduation.