Tuesday, December 19th, 2023: December was Spice It Up Month, a celebration of international recipes that are proven to raise the bar of the spice rack. Utica Academy of Science 4th grade scholars learned about the origin and health benefits of herbs and spices, including cinnamon, clove, allspice, and dill. Atoms smelled the herbs and spices after learning where they came from. Students then watched a cooking demo of warm baked apple slices that included spices in the recipe. Afterward, students were able to taste-test the apple slices. Students received recipe cards, activity sheets, and an apple for a snack!

Wednesday, December 20th, 2023: Ms. Tayler's kindergarten class had an unexpected visitor straight from the North Pole! Santa Claus was coming to town and he came right into class with a bag full of gifts! 

Santa’s visit was sponsored by the Meadows Senior Living Apartments based in New Hartford, as part of their community give back challenge. They also kindly donated snacks for the class holiday party and activities for the classroom such  puzzles, coloring books, and stickers!

Wednesday, December 20th, 2023: Utica Academy of Science Elementary School celebrated Cultural Day as part of Spirit Week. Students and staff were encouraged to wear something that celebrates their heritage and diversity. There were so many beautiful ensembles from around the world showcased on this special day.

Tuesday, December 19th, 2023: Utica Academy of Science Elementary Atoms were ready to sleigh for the second day of Spirit Week. Students and staff sported their "ugliest" sweater to spread some festive cheer around the school.

Monday, December 18th, 2023: Utica Academy of Science Elementary School celebrated Spirit Week before break. Monday, December 18th was Flannel Day. Atoms stayed warm and cozy on the chilly December day.

Monday, December 18th, 2023: Utica Academy of Science fifth graders visited the MOST Museum in Syracuse! Scholars enjoyed watching a film about the ice age and interacting with the educational exhibits throughout the museum. They learned about energy, fossils, machines, human anatomy, and more!

Friday, December 15th, 2023: Ms. DeSarro's class was rewarded with a pizza party for donating the most items during the Thanksgiving Food Drive on November 6th-17th. Ms. DeSarro's classes brought in 110 items! 

The Elementary School collected 538 items in total. All items were donated to the Neighborhood Center in Utica. Thank you to the FSA for holding this event. It's never too early to learn about Citizenship and giving back to your community!

Friday, December 15th, 2023: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School organized a talent show. This was an opportunity for Atoms to show their skills in various visual and audio performances. Special thanks to Ms. Myler, Ms. Strong, Mr. Bullis, and all other staff and students involved in this fantastic event!

Dear Utica Academy of Science Charter School families, teachers, staff, atoms, and community,

Believe it or not, it’s finally that time of the year, a season of joy, giving, and well-deserved relaxation. You’ve all been extraordinary examples of leaders and strong community members. Let’s take a moment to commend ourselves on the impeccable progress we’ve made during the first semester, regardless of the obstacles we’ve encountered. 

• UAS celebrated the 10-year milestone of providing high-quality public school education to children in the Utica community. 
• UAS JSHS held the annual Back to School Night for new and returning families. 
• Retired NYS Judge and SANY board member Jawwaad Rasheed hosted a lesson with UAS JSHS students.
• UAS Elementary held student of the month and dojo awards for September, October, and November.
• On Monday, October 2nd, The UAS Boys Varsity Soccer Team achieved their 6th win of the season with a 3-2 victory against the Waterville Eagles.
• UAS HS came in 6th place at the CNY Steamboat Challenge at the Museum of Science & Technology in Syracuse. 
• The UAS Girls Varsity Soccer team had their Senior Night on October 13th.
• UAS Elementary School celebrated Unity Day, the main event of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, by wearing orange. 
• Boys Varsity Soccer achieved a Sectional game win against South Lewis on October 18th.
• UAS Elementary held the first annual Trunk-Or-Treat event at the school.
• UAS staff become certified in the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED training.
• UAS JSHS Atoms participated in the CNY Bridges Challenge & an 8th-grade team received 9th place.
• UAS World Cultures Club traveled to Rochester for a day to experience Turkish culture and cuisine.
• Girls Varsity Basketball defeated Morrisville and achieved their second win in a row.
• UAS Elementary School holds a special breakfast for November Student of the Month recipients.

Now it’s time to deck the halls and share precious memories with loved ones. Remember, we are not just a district but a family. I look forward to building success one Atom at a time in the New Year. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Tolga Hayali
SANY Superintendent

Monday, December 4th, 2023: Members of the Utica City Football Club visited Utica Academy of Science second grade classrooms. They read to Atoms and answered questions about what it's like to play on the team. Scholars were excited to have these special guests in their classroom!