Announcements
Past announcements & Presentations
February 2024 Speaker Series
Social Work and Social Emotional Support presented by Sarah Sinisi, NCSD Social Worker & Jessica Brennan, NCSD Social Worker
November 2023 Speaker Series
Jennifer Greene-Gillooley, NCSD Occupational Therapist and Vanessa Melito, NCSD Physical Therapist
Presented about Related Services OT & PT
October 2023 Speaker Series
Meg Farquharsen NHS Social Worker, & Jessica Stanton, NHS PE Teacher
Presented about the unified clubs and classes that they have helped to create at NHS which have fostered inclusion within our Nisky community.
The Unified Physical Education course provides a unique opportunity for students with and without disabilities to come together through educational and physical activities, including fitness, sports, leadership and wellness. It is structured around the national physical education standards and grade-level outcomes, which include gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a health-enhancing level of fitness. The course focuses on the physical, intellectual and social growth of all participants. Additionally, the class supports the development of leadership skills for all students, and the empowerment of all students to foster an inclusive class and inclusive school-wide environment.
Unified - make or become united, uniform, or whole.
February 2023 Speaker Series
Latisha Barnett - Niskayuna’s Chief Equity Officer
Speaker Profile - Latisha J. Barnett became the district’s Chief Equity Officer in July 2019. She came to the district from Skidmore College, where she has served as the director of student diversity programs since 2016. She also worked as the director of student life and the assistant director of multicultural affairs at The College of Saint Rose. The chief equity officer role involves working collaboratively with stakeholders to implement best practices related to diversity, equity and inclusion, including in the areas of professional development and staff recruitment and retention. Latisha will be a valuable resource for students, families and staff in this area that is an important part of our strategic plan.
Click here to read the meeting notes!
Click here to view the Presentation!
December 2022 Speaker Series
Namita Modasra and Tina Beauparlant joined us from Parent to Parent of NYS
N. Modasra and T. Beauparlant presented about understanding regulations around student needs and disabilities.
October 2022 Speaker Series
PPS Leadership
At the meeting, we were able to answer questions posed by members of the community and also gather feedback on our special education programs and services. I thank SEPTA for the invitation and for the thoughtful conversation! I would like to invite you to join that ongoing conversation by sharing your input so we can further improve the experience and environment at Niskayuna as it relates to our special education program and services.
Timothy Fowler, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services
Stacy Marzullo, Director of Elementary Special Education (PreK – Grade 5)
Andrea Marques-Clarke, Director of Secondary Special Education (Grades 6-12 and out-of-district/BOCES placements)
View Presentation PPS Leadership Meet & Greet Oct. 2022
April 2022 Speaker Series
Dr. Ross Greene
Dr. Ross Greene
Dr. Ross Greene, bestselling author and developer of the innovative, evidence-based Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model of care.
About Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS)
February 2022 Speaker Series
Dr. Jennifer Smitkin, licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist, and owner of Psychology Wellness Practice, PLLC
Dr. Jennifer Smitkin, licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist, and owner of Psychology Wellness Practice, PLLC
A discussion on Anxiety
A Discussion on Anxiety with SEPTA and Dr. Jennifer Smitkin - video!
Password: SEPTA22!
December 2021 Speaker Series
Tina Beauparlant of Parent to Parent of New York State
Presented an introduction to special education. This presentation is geared for caregivers new to the special education process, as well as a good refresher for those of us with more experience.
December 2, 2021 is National Special Education Day
Did you know that December 2 is the anniversary of what is now called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)? We're ready to celebrate! View our planning page and guide!
April 2021 Speaker Series: Special Education Town Hall
The Town Hall will feature a Q&A session, but you can also submit your questions in advance.
Learn more and submit your questions >
April is Autism Awareness Month
April 15, 22, and 29, 2021 - wear blue!
April is Autism Awareness Month. One way to spread both awareness and acceptance is by wearing clothing that is blue. One in 54 children are diagnosed with autism, and the symptoms can present as mild to severe. Please join SEPTA in "lighting Niskayuna up blue" each Thursday in April as we raise awareness and acceptance in our community for individuals with autism.
Story Hour!
March 30, 2021
Birchwood, Hillside, and Rosendale story time will be held on March 30, 2021. Check your building PTO site for details!
We are proud to partner with these schools and PTOs to offer a packet of materials that include a list of books, cover pages, and themed coloring pages and an activity to accompany the stories.