Category: District News
2024-25 welcome letters from our principals
We are looking forward to welcoming our learners back for the start of the 2024-25 school year.
Students kindergarten through Grade 12 will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 4; pre-K students will begin on Thursday, Sept. 5.
Read the 2024-25 welcome letters from Harry Hoag Elementary School’s Acting Principal Amy Bartholomew and Jr/Sr. High School Principal Nicholas Comproski:
Feasibility Study advisory committee appointed, focus group signup
Dear Community Members,
On July 30, 2024, both the Canajoharie and Fort Plain Boards of Education appointed select applicants to the Advisory Committee for the Feasibility Study.
The following people were appointed:
- Donald Bramer
- Lauri Broady
- Jed Brown
- Jamie Bunker
- Tracey Conover
- Jessica Hecht
- Lindsey Hodge
- Todd Jones
- Sara McDuffee
- Michele Nare
- Laura Pamkowski
- Nadine Paul
- Karlene Peck
- Kyra Powylan
- Patricia Prime
- Samantha Sherwood
- Lori Shults
- Dale Smith
- Neal VanSlyke
- Edward Watt
The charge for all committee members is to:
- fully commit to, and actively support, the study process.
- remain open to learning throughout the process.
- share relevant perspectives and experiences.
- clarify and probe data, information and insights shared by consultants.
- communicate openly, factually, and continuously with the public.
The committee will meet on the following dates (meetings are open to the public):
Aug. 21, 2024 – 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Meeting at Fort Plain CSD, Harry Hoag Elementary School Library Media Center.
Sept. 12, 2024 – 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Virtual (onsite connection for participants at both the Canajoharie and Fort Plain districts.)
Oct. 17, 2024 – 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Virtual (onsite connection for participants at both the Canajoharie and Fort Plain districts.)
Nov. 14, 2024 – 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Virtual (onsite connection for participants at both the Canajoharie and Fort Plain districts.)
Dec. 12, 2024 – 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Meeting at Canajoharie CSD.
Focus group discussions to be held this October
In addition, the focus group discussions related to the Feasibility Study have been rescheduled for October 30, 2024. Focus groups scheduled for this summer were not held due to a low applicant response.
Please apply with the following link if you would like to be considered for participation with a focus group. If you applied previously, please apply again and select a new time and location.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfJSh2M2lPK-R3jJiPhlrsh3dUU5N5p2HhzX0w-VEemo64UZw/viewform
Thank you in advance to the volunteers listed above for their willingness to represent the community’s perspectives, ideas and questions.
As always, please reach out with any questions.
Sincerely,
Lauren H. Crisman, Superintendent
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.”
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.
NYS 2024 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Funds
The USDA and New York state provide families with an extra food benefit for the summer months, when some children do not have access to school meals.
Each eligible child will receive $120 in Summer EBT food benefits in 2024.
This year, the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program will work a little differently.
While Fort Plain CSD is a CEP district, meaning all students eat at school for free, this does not automatically qualify all of our students for EBT benefits. Only students from households with qualifying incomes are eligible.
Many children are automatically eligible for Summer EBT. These include:
- Families that have received SNAP or Medicaid benefits during the 2023-2024 school year, your children are already eligible. You do not need to take any action—your benefits will be automatically sent, beginning in July.
- Families that qualified for “free or reduced” status during this school year, for example those who applied for reasons of AP fees or driver’s education class. Students in these families have already been reported by the district and will also automatically receive their benefits. Families cannot apply for this “free or reduced” status with the district now—the deadline for that has passed.
If your family does not receive SNAP or Medicaid, but you believe your household income falls below the threshold, you can apply for the Summer EBT benefits. Only one application per household is required.
To apply, visit: otda.ny.gov/programs/summer-ebt/
Applicants will need:
- children’s names
- dates of birth
- address
- phone & email address
Applicants also need a NY.GOV ID, used for electronically signing documents online. Those who do not have a NY.GOV ID may apply for one at: my.ny.gov/Login\4/login.xhtml (click on “create an account.”) This step should be completed before beginning the EBT application.
Applicants will be notified by email when their application is received. They will then be notified in late August or early September about whether the application has been approved.
More Details
Summer EBT benefits will no longer be put onto SNAP cards. For those who received Pandemic EBT funds last year, the Summer EBT benefits will be deposited onto that same P-EBT card. A new Summer EBT card will be sent to those who did not receive benefits last year, but qualify for them this year.
All families who automatically qualify for EBT this year will be notified by letter. The letter will tell these families when and how to expect their benefits.
Please make sure that the address on file with your county SNAP department or with the state EBT office is up to date. To request an address change, call 1-833-452-0096.
If you cannot find your old P-EBT card, but you still remember your four digit PIN, you can request a new card by calling 1-888-328-6399. If you cannot find your old P-EBT card and you don’t know what the four
digit PIN associated with the old card is, then request a new card by calling 1-833-452-0096.