Congratulations to Our Newest Rensselaer Jr Honor Society Members!
Congratulations to our incredible 7th grade students—the Class of 2025—who were officially inducted into the Rensselaer Junior Honor Society! 👏📘
We proudly welcomed 21 inductees this year, making it one of our largest classes yet! The ceremony was a special event, with our 8th grade members leading the way and guiding the new members through this important milestone.
We are so excited to see what the future holds for this bright, talented group of students. Their commitment to scholarship, leadership, service, and character sets a strong foundation for success at RJSHS and beyond! 💙✨ 🎥 Watch our inductees: Click here to view the ceremony
Van Rensselaer 2025 Yearbooks Are Here – Get Yours Today!
The 2025 Van Rensselaer Elementary School Yearbooks have arrived! Capture this year’s memories and milestones by grabbing your copy today.
💵 Cost: $25 📍 How to Pay: Cash or check payable to Van Rensselaer PTA
👥 Who to See: Mrs. Lane or Mrs. Hurley
Quantities are limited—don’t miss out on this keepsake! 🎓📷✨
Construction Art Pieces 2025
Mrs. Tamburrino's students showcased their creativity and geometry skills in this year's Construction Art Pieces project. Each artwork had to include a variety of geometric constructions—and we received 8 amazing entries!
A big congratulations to Susan, whose piece was selected as the winner by our panel of judges!
Well done to all students for their impressive work combining math and art!
Hot Off the Press: FINAL 2025 Edition of The Ramblurr – SENIOR SPOTLIGHT! 🎓
The May edition of The Ramblurr is here—and it's all about our seniors! Check out the final 2025 release packed with heartfelt stories, helpful advice, and unforgettable memories.
Inside This Edition:
- "How to Survive Senior Year" – Miracle Hackett shares strategies for combating senioritis
- "The Hidden Costs of Being a Senior" – Jacob Shultz breaks down budget options from $800 to $5,000+
- "Green Flags vs. Red Flags of Being a Senior" – Gaby Cruz gives her honest take on the senior experience
- "Senior Regrets" – Chris Du offers money-saving tips for future seniors
- "Prom Recap" – Relive the highlights from our magical "Under the Stars" celebration
- Senior Interviews – Get to know Andrew Putnam and Class President Emily Carey
- "Military vs. College" – Airik Duncan compares two big post-grad pathways
Congrats to the Class of 2025 and our Ramblurr writers on a fantastic final edition!
Join the Active Parenting Workshop – Free 6-Week Program!
We are excited to offer the nationally acclaimed Active Parenting 4th Edition program to parents and caregivers of children ages 5–12! This FREE six-week video and discussion-based workshop will equip you with practical tools to build a more joyful, cooperative family environment.
💡 Learn How To:
- Use nonviolent discipline that really works
- Communicate effectively with your child
- Teach responsibility and build strong character
- Encourage school success with 7 proven strategies
- Prevent future issues with drugs, alcohol, and risky behaviors
- End power struggles and create a peaceful home
📅 Workshop Details:
- Dates: 5/22, 5/29, 6/5, 6/12, 6/26, 7/3
- Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Rensselaer County Dept. of Mental Health, 3rd Floor Conference Room
- Sponsored by: Rensselaer County Prevention
📝 How to Register:
Contact: Shayna Davner or Nicole CareyEmail: sdavner@berlincentral.org or careyni@troycsd.org
Phone: (518) 658-1500 x 2117
This program is free of charge and offers valuable parenting strategies and support. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with other families and strengthen your parenting skills!
🔗 Learn more at ActiveParenting.com/AP4-parents.
Once Upon a Time: A Van Rensselaer Art Showcase
Step into a world of imagination and creativity at the Van Rensselaer Elementary Art Show! Our talented students have been working hard with Mrs. Thomas to bring the theme “Once Upon a Time” to life through their artwork.
Come explore magical creations featuring:
- 🛡️🧙♂️🐉 Knights, dragons, 🧞 Genie lamps, 🪄 Magic carpets, 🐸 Enchanted frogs, 🦄 Unicorns, 🤴 Princes
- 👸 Princesses, 🤴 Kings, 👑 Queens, 👑 Royal crowns, 🏰 Castles, 🌈 Stained glass windows
- 🏴☠️ Pirates, 💰 Treasure chests, 🏕️ Forts, 🧌 Gnomes, 🏡 Gnome homes, and more!
🕔 Time: 5:15 PM – 7:00 PM
A huge thank you to Mrs. Thomas for her creativity, dedication, and ability to tie it all together into one magical showpiece. Your hard work made this enchanting event possible! 🌟💐
Don’t miss this inspiring display of student creativity—every piece tells a story! ✨📚
RJSHS Art Show – Celebrating Student Creativity!
Join us today, May 20, from 5:15 PM to 9:00 PM to view an incredible selection of artwork created by grades 7–12 students at Rensselaer Jr. Sr. High School. The art show highlights outstanding pieces from our talented Art students and is located just outside the auditorium.
While you're here, stick around for the High School Academic Awards Ceremony, which begins at 6:30 PM in the auditorium.
Come celebrate the creativity and achievements of our amazing students! 🖌️🏆🎓
June H.O.P.E. Food Pantry Distributions – Free to the Public!
The H.O.P.E. Food Pantry at 85 Aiken Ave., Rensselaer, NY is open to the general public and will be holding weekly food distributions throughout June 2025. All are welcome!
Each distribution includes:
- FREE Groceries including meat, fruit, vegetables, and more
- FREE Bread provided by Panera
- June 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Thank you to our sponsors, including the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY, Panera Bread, and Rensselaer County Youth & Office of Children and Family Services.
Hosted by: Greater Hope Family Life Center – An IMPACT Ministry
Reverse Mentoring Ambassadors Impress at Faculty Meeting
Today at the Rensselaer Jr. Sr. High School Faculty Meeting, we had the privilege of hearing from four incredible student ambassadors from our Reverse Mentoring Program. These students confidently shared their insights and experiences, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Their presentation focused on a powerful driving question: How can we create a school environment that empowers students and staff to develop, practice, and sustain resilience?
They also shared their mission to help advance school climate efforts through shared responsibility, meaningful conversations, and tangible tools that support teachers and administrators in fostering a culture of resilience — together.
Fantastic work to our student leaders for sparking thoughtful dialogue and showing what’s possible when student voice leads the way!
Briana Fitzgerald Signs to Play Softball at Buffalo State!
Today, Briana Fitzgerald celebrated her signing ceremony in the main gym at 2:45 PM, where she officially committed to playing softball at Buffalo State next year! 🎉🧡🖤
Surrounded by teammates, coaches, family, and friends, Briana marked this exciting milestone in her athletic and academic journey. We are so proud of her athletic and academic accomplishments and can’t wait to see all she achieves at the next level!
Congratulations, Briana! 🐾💪
Here is the updated video of Briana's signing: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZKjoGzsgD8P03XgWvQvbN5yRWmddQkrU/
First Grade Pet Unit Wraps Up with Special Visitors!
Mrs. Agans and Mrs. Kyer’s 1st Grade Classes recently completed their Pet Unit, which concluded with a heartwarming visit from therapy dogs Shamus and Quinn in Mrs. MacNamara’s Library today! 🐶📚
As part of the unit, students researched different animals, exploring their characteristics and care needs. To celebrate their learning, they enjoyed time with Shamus and Quinn—two gentle therapy dogs who brought smiles and tail wags to everyone’s faces.
A big thank you to Mrs. Goodwin for organizing this memorable event and to handlers Ms. Dot and Ms. Lainey for bringing in their wonderful dogs. 🐕❤️
Check out the photos below for some of today’s furry fun!
Reminder: H.O.P.E. Drive-Thru Pantry Tomorrow! 🥚
The H.O.P.E. Drive-Thru Pantry is happening tomorrow, Saturday, May 17th, from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Van Rensselaer Elementary School (25 Van Rensselaer Drive, Rensselaer, NY).Drive through to pick up free groceries, including meat, fruit, vegetables, dairy, and more—no paperwork required.
Please clear your trunk and bring coolers for cold or frozen items.
Brought to you by H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel) Greater Community Development, Inc., Rensselaer City School District, Rensselaer Boys & Girls Club, and Rensselaer Police Department.
Volunteers are still needed! Email greaterhope20@gmail.com and arrive by 7:30 AM to register.
Join us to share hope in our Rensselaer community!
🧠 Ellis Medicine Family Room – Free Mental Health & Support Services
📍 Location: 1023 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12307
Contact: (518) 831-6978 or (518) 243-1523
👨👩👧👦 Parent Drop-In Support Group
Join a safe, confidential space to connect with other parents facing similar challenges around children’s mental health.
🗓 Mondays at 5:00–6:00 PM, starting March 3rd, 2025
🎨 Youth Drop-In Group (June–August 2025)
Held every Tuesday from 4:30–5:30 PM with fun, supportive weekly topics for youth like:
- Craft Nights
- Meditation & Mindfulness
- Game Nights
- Emotional Awareness
💬 The Living Room at Ellis
Walk-in support for adults needing help with:
- Mental health or substance use
- Physical and housing resources
- Care management and community services
📞 Need Help Now?
Call or text 988 (Mental Health Crisis Line)
Mobile Crisis: (518) 292-5499
Text "HOME" to 741741 for 24/7 support
Van Rensselaer Book Fair
Thank you to Mrs. Clum for organizing this year's Book Fair! Students have had a great time this week browsing the shelves, discovering new reads, and bringing books home.
A special thank you to all of our amazing volunteers who helped make this event possible. Your time and support made a big difference!
Enjoy the action shots and photos of our happy customers!
Student Coaches for the Day!
Carter (3rd Grade Nunziato's Class) & K (1st Grade Mrs. Blake's Class) were the lucky winners of the raffle from our 1st Annual Jump Rope Event back in February—and their prize? Becoming “Coach for the Day!”
Yesterday, these two amazing students stepped into the role by helping set up the gym, assisting kindergartners with bike activities, and even rocking their own whistles!
Take a look at these incredible student coaches in action!
Free Food Pantry Distribution – Thursday, May 22!
CEO is offering a FREE Food Pantry Distribution for all Rensselaer County residents! No appointment is needed. Come pick up fresh produce, protein, pantry staples, and more—while supplies last!
📅 Date: Thursday, May 22
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Community Resource Center, 2328 Fifth Avenue, Troy, NY
What’s Provided:
- 3 days’ worth of food per household member (while supplies last)
- Diapers available in limited sizes
📞 For More Info: Call (518) 272-6012 ext. 198
Help spread the word and support local families in need! 🥦🥚🛒
Guest Speaker Inspires Grades 6–8 Students
On Monday’s half day, students in Grades 6–8 had the opportunity to attend a powerful presentation by inspirational speaker John Perricone. Mr. Perricone, a former health teacher at Maine-Endwell High School, engaged students with meaningful insights and life lessons that left a lasting impact.
Fun fact: Mr. Perricone was also Ms. Leonard’s former health teacher!
Check out the photos from this engaging session!
Join the Active Parenting Workshop – Free 6-Week Program!
We are excited to offer the nationally acclaimed Active Parenting 4th Edition program to parents and caregivers of children ages 5–12! This FREE six-week video and discussion-based workshop will equip you with practical tools to build a more joyful, cooperative family environment.
💡 Learn How To:
- Use nonviolent discipline that really works
- Communicate effectively with your child
- Teach responsibility and build strong character
- Encourage school success with 7 proven strategies
- Prevent future issues with drugs, alcohol, and risky behaviors
- End power struggles and create a peaceful home
📅 Workshop Details:
- Dates: 5/22, 5/29, 6/5, 6/12, 6/26, 7/3
- Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Rensselaer County Dept. of Mental Health, 3rd Floor Conference Room
- Sponsored by: Rensselaer County Prevention
📝 How to Register:
Contact: Shayna Davner or Nicole CareyEmail: sdavner@berlincentral.org or careyni@troycsd.org
Phone: (518) 658-1500 x 2117
This program is free of charge and offers valuable parenting strategies and support. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with other families and strengthen your parenting skills!
🔗 Learn more at ActiveParenting.com/AP4-parents.
H.O.P.E. Drive-Thru Pantry Comes to Rensselaer 🥚
Join the H.O.P.E. Drive-Thru Pantry at Van Rensselaer Elementary School (25 Van Rensselaer Drive, Rensselaer, NY) on Saturday, May 17th, and Saturday, June 21st, from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.Drive through to receive free groceries, including meat, fruit, vegetables, dairy, and more—no paperwork required.
Please clear your trunk and bring coolers for cold or frozen items.
This event is brought to you by H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel) Greater Community Development, Inc., Rensselaer City School District, Rensselaer Boys & Girls Club, and Rensselaer Police Department.
Volunteers are needed! Email greaterhope20@gmail.com and arrive by 7:30 AM to register.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more caring Rensselaer community!
Happy Mother’s Day from RCSD!
Rensselaer City School District would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the incredible moms and mother figures this Mother’s Day weekend. Your love, support, and care mean the world to our students and school community.
Today’s Kindergarten event for Mrs. Darbry's, Mrs. Lane's, and Mrs. Wanko's classes was made even more special as Mr. Hosley’s 4th and 5th Grade Choir serenaded mothers during their Mother’s Day Tea. Thank you to our talented students for helping to create such a memorable experience!
To celebrate, we’re excited to share highlights from our Kindergarten and 1st Grade Mother’s Day activities! Please enjoy the wonderful moments captured in the slideshows below:
- Kindergarten Mother’s Day Tea – Ms. Deso & Ms. Fisher's Classes 5/8
- Kindergarten Mother’s Day Tea – Mrs. Darby, Mrs. Lane, & Ms. Wanko's Classes + 4th/5th Grade Choir
- 1st Grade Mother’s Day Activities
Happy Mother’s Day! 💐 Your love shapes our future. 💛
