Tag: back to school

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