Hello Schalmont High School Students and Families,

I hope you’re enjoying a wonderful summer. It’s hard to believe that July is nearly over and the start of the school year is just around the corner. Below are important updates and reminders to help prepare for a smooth return in September.

Leadership Team

We’re excited to welcome Mrs. Kelsey Heck as our new High School Assistant Principal. Mrs. Heck joined us on July 1, bringing strong instructional leadership experience from Amsterdam Schools and the BOCES Summer School program. We look forward to the fresh perspective and energy she brings to our team.

School Counselors

The Freshman Class of 2029 is assigned to Mrs. Choi. With many years of experience as a School Counselor, Mrs. Choi is excited to support the Class of 2029 as they begin their high school journey.

Below are the School Counseling assignments for the 2025–2026 school year:

• Mrs. Choi – Grade 9 & Grade 10 (M–Z)
• Mrs. Gibbs – Grade 11
• Mr. Loiacano – Grade 12 & Grade 10 (A–L)

Our counselors are committed to supporting students throughout the year. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Student Schedules

Schedules will be available starting Monday, August 25 at 9:00 a.m. on both Schoology and the eSchool Parent Portal. On the first day of school, September 4, printed schedules will also be distributed during first period/homeroom. Please be aware of your first period classroom location for the first day of school.

Arrival & Dismissal Procedures

• Bus Riders: Buses will unload at 7:25 a.m. at the front loop. Students should enter and wait in the cafeteria until the first period warning bell at 7:38 a.m.
• Drop-Offs: Student drop-off will remain in the rear loop (Door 13), beginning at 7:20 a.m.
• Student Drivers: Parking remains in the designated student lot. Students may enter through the main entrance (Door 1) beginning at 7:25 a.m. Details on parking permits will be shared through Schoology the week of August 18.
• Dismissal and Pick-Up: Students are dismissed at 2:15 p.m. Bus pick-up takes place in the front loop, while parent pick-up remains in the rear loop.

Freshman & New Student Orientation

Orientation for 9th grade and new students will take place on Thursday, August 28 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. This event includes:

• Welcome presentation
• Student schedule distribution
• Guided building tours
• Small group activities led by student mentors
• More details will be sent home in the coming weeks.

Back to School Orientation (Grades 9–12)

During the first few days of school, students will participate in brief orientation sessions covering:

• Academic integrity
• Digital citizenship
• School-wide expectations
• The schedule for the orientation programs will be shared upon returning to school.

School Supplies

Supply lists are available on the district website. If you have any questions, please contact the High School Main Office at 518-355-6110.

Open House

The High School Open House will take place on Thursday, October 9 at 6:00 p.m. We look forward to welcoming families to campus and sharing important information about the school year. Additional details will be shared as the date approaches.

Attendance & Engagement

Being on time and present each day is essential. Instruction begins promptly at 7:40 a.m. Strong attendance early in the year sets a positive tone and maximizes student success throughout the year.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Enjoy the rest of your summer and we look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Thank you,

Matthew Heckman
Executive Principal
Schalmont Middle & High School
518-355-6110