Thursday, March 26, 2020—Central New York teachers are getting creative in their efforts to keep kids learning while schools are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the video above, Lucas Cognetti, a first-grade teacher at Syracuse Academy of Science and Citizenship Charter School on Valley Drive, shows how he is being creative. He and his fellow teachers are using social media as a platform to connect with the kids. Cognetti’s special classroom reading chair is still in the classroom, so he made his own out of snow! He then shared the story “How to Make a Shark Smile!”

Friday, February 28, 2020—"Dedication, determination, and hard work will feed life into your dreams." #SASCAtoms focused on the following character strengths this February: Forgiveness, Love, and Zest/Enthusiasm. Congrats to all of our Student of the Month Scholars! ?❤️?

Friday, February 28, 2020—Fire safety was the primary topic of Syracuse Fire Department Chief Monds when he served as a guest speaker at Citizenship Academy. He also shared memorable life experiences, including the process he went through to become a fireman and a fire chief. Chief Monds, thank you for inspiring future firefighters and safety-minded citizens.

Friday, February 28, 2020—Wanda Hines McGriff of the New York Department of Mental Health was invited by the Citizenship Academy to be a guest speaker. Mrs.McGriff talked with students about her own experiences as a student in school as well as her daily job routine working for New York State. Her presence and retelling of life experiences engaged both students and staff.

Friday, February 28, 2020—Citizenship Academy students were invited to envision their futures when Rasheeda Caldwell of Peace Incorporated and the Let Me Be Great movement spoke as a guest speaker. Ms.Caldwell expressed the importance of having a vision of doing and being something positive in life, so that it impacts those you meet and come across throughout life. Her words of wisdom truly inspired our young Atoms and left them with great expectations. #28Speakersin28Days #LetMeBeGreatt44

Friday, February 28, 2020—Shadayvia Wallace, valedictorian of SANY Class of 2011 and a LeMoyne College Student Affairs professional, was a welcome guest speaker recently at Citizenship Academy. Ms. Wallace shared valuable information about the importance of doing extracurricular activities while attending college, as well as what college life is like. Our students were so intrigued by her message, they are more eager to attend college. Ms. Wallace’s legacy as an exceptional student is sure to be remembered for a long time at Citizenship Academy.

Thursday, February 27, 2020—Deputy Mayor of Syracuse Sharon Owens visited Citizenship Academy as a special guest speaker during our series of 28 Speakers in 28 Days. Deputy Mayor Owens spoke with our 1st graders about her important job leading the City of Syracuse as well as what she has learned through her experiences in life and college. Her positive encouragement and triumphant outlook left a memorable impression on all Atoms--scholars and teachers. We hope she visits again soon!

Wednesday, February 26, 2020—Former NFL Player Will Hunter came to Citizenship Academy as an amazing guest speaker for our Atoms. He spoke with our students about his experiences in school and college, and what it takes to be a professional athlete. Mr. Hunter explained what dedication is, and he stressed the importance of being dedicated to what you are doing--no matter what you are doing. Students and staff alike were very inspired by his story and his enthusiasm. You scored a touchdown, Mr. Hunter!

Wednesday, February 26, 2020—Citizenship Academy scholars welcomed powerful guest speaker Dr. Mark Muhammed, who enthusiastically spoke to them about the importance of having many college options to help them achieve their future goals, as well as developing the stamina and aptitude needed for taking tests. Thank you, Dr. Mark Muhammed, for being a key participant in our guest-speaker tour. #28Speakersin28Days.