|| OV Celebrates Five Educators Receiving Tenure

At the most recent Otselic Valley Central School District Board of Education meeting, we were proud to recognize and celebrate the tenure appointments of five outstanding educators:

Mary Ellen Cantrell, Spanish Teacher
Frieda Koornstra, Secondary Social Studies Teacher
Cassandra Manchester, Special Education Teacher
Marisa Raymond, Secondary Math Teacher
Samuel Taylor, Music Teacher

These educators have demonstrated dedication, passion, and a strong commitment to student success. We are grateful for their continued contributions to our school community and the positive impact they make on students each and every day.

Please join us in congratulating Mary Ellen, Frieda, Marisa, Cassandra, and Samuel on reaching this important professional milestone!
about 5 hours ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Five Otselic Valley educators stand side by side indoors and smile for a group photo after being recognized for receiving tenure. Framed certificates and a district mission poster are displayed on the wall behind them.
|| Lukas Schieferstein Earns All-CNY Basketball Honors

Congratulations to Lukas Schieferstein on being named a Second Team All-Central New York Small School Boys Basketball All-Star by Syracuse.com for the 2025–26 season.

This recognition reflects Lukas’s hard work, dedication, and strong performance on the court throughout the season. Otselic Valley is proud to see his efforts recognized among the top small school players in Central New York.

Congratulations, Lukas!
about 8 hours ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
I'm back working on the OV newsletter. Can you give me a newsletter article from this Facebook post? And I'll need a button name and a couple of sub headings just in case. || Cooking Up Learning in the Classroom! Students in Ms. Cantrell’s class recently put their skills to work by creating a delicious breakfast sandwich using a one-pan method. Following video step-by-step directions, students cracked eggs, added bread, and carefully assembled their sandwiches right in the pan. The activity gave them a chance to practice kitchen skills while also reinforcing the importance of following directions and working safely. From start to finish, students stayed engaged in the process, and were rewarded with a tasty result at the end! A special thank you to Ms. Cantrell for creating this engaging, hands-on learning experience for students. Headline Cooking Up Learning in the Classroom Button Name Classroom Cooking Activity Article Students in Ms. Cantrell’s class recently combined learning and life skills during a hands-on cooking activity. Using step-by-step video directions, students prepared breakfast sandwiches with a simple one-pan method. Along the way, they practiced important kitchen skills such as cracking eggs, assembling ingredients, and using cooking tools safely. The activity also reinforced the value of carefully following directions, staying organized, and working independently throughout the cooking process. From start to finish, students remained engaged and enjoyed seeing their efforts turn into a delicious final product. Thank you to Ms. Cantrell for creating this fun and meaningful classroom experience. Optional Subheadings Hands-On Learning Through Cooking Building Skills in the Kitchen Following Directions for Success Can I have a generic caption for photos in a collage for this aritcle Students in Ms. Cantrell’s class practiced cooking skills and followed step-by-step directions while making breakfast sandwiches during a hands-on classroom activity. Can I have a newsletter article from this Facebook post with the usual extra stuff I need: || Exploring the Future: OV Students Visit Local Colleges Students in grades 9-12 who are interested in Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) and SUNY Cortland had the opportunity to visit both campuses and learn more about the academic programs, campus life, and activities each school has to offer. It was a valuable experience that helped students to think about their future goals and college options. Students were also able to compare these campuses to schools we visited in the fall, helping them to reflect on what environments may be the best fit for them. Visiting college campuses is an important step in the planning process, as it allows students to get a real feel for campus life and better understand what they're looking for in a college. With summer right around the corner, it's a great time for students and families to start scheduling college visits! We are also looking forward to attending the college fair at DCMO BOCES on April 16, where students will have another opportunity to connect with college representatives. Permission slips will be sent home next week. Headline Exploring the Future: OV Students Visit Local Colleges Button Name College Campus Visits Article Students in grades 9–12 recently had the opportunity to visit Tompkins Cortland Community College and SUNY Cortland to learn more about academic programs, campus life, and student opportunities. The visits gave students a firsthand look at each campus and helped them explore future educational options after high school. Touring colleges in person allows students to experience the campus environment, ask questions, and gather information that can support their decision-making process. Students were also able to compare these campuses with colleges visited earlier in the school year, helping them reflect on what type of school setting may be the best fit for their goals and interests. With summer approaching, now is a great time for students and families to begin planning additional college visits and exploring postsecondary opportunities. DCMO BOCES will also host a college fair on April 16, giving students another opportunity to meet with representatives from colleges and organizations. Optional Subheadings Learning About College Opportunities Exploring Campus Life Planning for the Future I think I'll put two buttons on this page, one for TC3 and one for SUNy Cortland. What should the buttons say? Use clear, direct button labels so readers know exactly where each link goes. Recommended Button Names Visit TC3 Visit SUNY Cortland Slightly More Informational Options Explore Tompkins Cortland CC Explore SUNY Cortland Best for Newsletter Accessibility I’d recommend: Visit TC3 Visit SUNY Cortland They’re short, clear, and action-based. This is a Facebook post for the March OV Star awards: || March OV Star Awards – Celebrating Honesty! We’re proud to recognize our March OV Star Award recipients for grades 6-12! Each month, Otselic Valley honors students who demonstrate important character traits, and March’s theme was Honesty. Congratulations to: ⭐ Leighann Depew ⭐ Wyatt Eaton ⭐ Caelin Remillard ⭐ Jacob Wilbur ⭐ Madison Hicks ⭐ Clarah Beeching ⭐ Kadyn Bishop ⭐ Landon Burpee ⭐ Makenzy Clemens ⭐ Kaytlynn Cookingham ⭐ Danica Davis ⭐ Logan Doyle ⭐ Allayna Harvey ⭐ Carter Loomis ⭐ Emma Miller ⭐ Kimmy Miron-Blanco ⭐ Izzy Neal ⭐ Rylie Peabody ⭐ Bella Sayles ⭐ Orion Schieferstein ⭐ Nelson Shoemaker ⭐ Lydia Vroman ⭐ Jayden Waltz ⭐ Owen Davis ⭐ Lukas Schieferstein ⭐ Shay Dutcher ⭐ Paisley Pendell ⭐ Emma Ramsey ⭐ TJ Fuller Thank you for demonstrating integrity and setting a positive example for others. You help make Otselic Valley a strong and supportive school community! #OVPride #StarAwards #Honesty I NEED THIS FOR A NEWSLETTER ARTICLE, AND CAN IT BE SIMILAR TO THE FEBRUARY STARS ARTICLE YOU DID? Headline March OV Star Awards Recognize Honesty Button Name March OV Star Awards Article Otselic Valley is proud to recognize the students in grades 6–12 who were selected as March OV Star Award recipients. Each month, students are honored for demonstrating positive character traits that help build a strong school community. March’s featured trait was honesty, recognizing students who show integrity, truthfulness, and responsibility in their words and actions. Congratulations to the following students: Leighann Depew, Wyatt Eaton, Caelin Remillard, Jacob Wilbur, Madison Hicks, Clarah Beeching, Kadyn Bishop, Landon Burpee, Makenzy Clemens, Kaytlynn Cookingham, Danica Davis, Logan Doyle, Allayna Harvey, Carter Loomis, Emma Miller, Kimmy Miron-Blanco, Izzy Neal, Rylie Peabody, Bella Sayles, Orion Schieferstein, Nelson Shoemaker, Lydia Vroman, Jayden Waltz, Owen Davis, Lukas Schieferstein, Shay Dutcher, Paisley Pendell, Emma Ramsey, and TJ Fuller. Thank you to these students for setting a positive example and helping make Otselic Valley a supportive place to learn and grow. Optional Subheadings Recognizing Honesty in Action Students Lead by Example Building Strong Character at OV Can the names be in a list that is vertical Headline March OV Star Awards Recognize Honesty Button Name March OV Star Awards Article Otselic Valley is proud to recognize the students in grades 6–12 who were selected as March OV Star Award recipients. Each month, students are honored for demonstrating positive character traits that help build a strong school community. March’s featured trait was honesty, recognizing students who show integrity, truthfulness, and responsibility in their words and actions. Congratulations to the following students: Leighann Depew Wyatt Eaton Caelin Remillard Jacob Wilbur Madison Hicks Clarah Beeching Kadyn Bishop Landon Burpee Makenzy Clemens Kaytlynn Cookingham Danica Davis Logan Doyle Allayna Harvey Carter Loomis Emma Miller Kimmy Miron-Blanco Izzy Neal Rylie Peabody Bella Sayles Orion Schieferstein Nelson Shoemaker Lydia Vroman Jayden Waltz Owen Davis Lukas Schieferstein Shay Dutcher Paisley Pendell Emma Ramsey TJ Fuller Thank you to these students for setting a positive example and helping make Otselic Valley a supportive place to learn and grow. Optional Subheadings Recognizing Honesty in Action Students Lead by Example Building Strong Character at OV Can I have a newsletter article from this Facebook post: || Revolutionary War Lesson Comes to Life at OV! Seventh-grade Social Studies students recently brought their study of the American Revolution outdoors with an interactive tug-of-war activity designed to demonstrate the advantages and challenges faced by both sides during the war. Students representing the British and the Continental Army put their knowledge into action as they competed in a modified tug-of-war game, with rules adjusted to reflect the realities of the Revolutionary War. While the teams followed a tug-of-war format, several twists were added to represent the different circumstances each side faced during the conflict. A major turning point came when OV seniors joined the activity, representing the French allies, helping the blue team, the Patriots, secure the victory. The activity gave students a fun and memorable way to connect what they’ve been learning in class with real historical events. Thank you to Ms. Koornstra for creating such an engaging, hands-on lesson that helped bring this important moment in history to life for students. We also appreciate the OV seniors who participated as the French allies and helped make the activity even more memorable, and thank you to Ms. Yaddow for capturing the photos from the day! #OVPride #AmericanRevolution and I need my normal stuff Headline Revolutionary War Lesson Comes to Life at OV Button Name Revolutionary War Activity Article Seventh-grade Social Studies students recently took their study of the American Revolution outdoors through an interactive lesson designed to highlight the advantages and challenges faced by both sides during the war. Students representing the British and Continental Army participated in a modified tug-of-war activity, with special rules added to reflect the different circumstances each side experienced during the conflict. The hands-on lesson gave students an engaging way to apply what they had been learning in class. A key moment in the activity came when OV seniors joined as the French allies, helping the Patriots secure the victory and demonstrating the important role France played during the war. By combining movement, teamwork, and historical concepts, the lesson helped students connect classroom learning to real events in a memorable way. Thank you to Ms. Koornstra for creating this creative learning experience, to the OV seniors who participated, and to Ms. Yaddow for capturing photos from the day. Optional Subheadings History in Action Learning Through Experience Bringing the American Revolution to Life Can I have a newsletter article from this Facebook post: || Mrs. O shared the following reflection after last week's final Colgate Seminar of the year: Last week marked our final Colgate Seminar of the year and we celebrated our own "senior night." These seminars offer students in grades 9–12 the chance to explore college-level topics not typically available in high school, while also experiencing a glimpse of life on a college campus. With four sessions each year, it’s no surprise that students are already calling dibs on car spots for next year. This group of seniors (pictured) has been part of the program since their freshman year. Over time, they’ve explored an incredible range of subjects including art, dance, navigating our political world, networking and relationships, volunteerism, dealing with stress, poetry, languages, and so much more. I will truly miss this group—the bickering over the perfect playlist for the drive, the whole group sing-alongs, the car games, the stories, and the insights they shared about what they were learning. And for those adventurous enough, sampling new-to-them foods in the dining hall became part of the experience too. It has been a joy to watch them grow over the years, and I’m excited to see where they go next. Headline OV Seniors Celebrated at Final Colgate Seminar Button Name Colgate Seminar Seniors Article Otselic Valley recently celebrated its final Colgate University High School Seminar of the year, recognizing a group of seniors who have participated in the program since their freshman year. The Colgate Seminars provide students in grades 9–12 with opportunities to explore college-level topics not typically available in high school while also experiencing life on a college campus. Throughout the year, students attend four seminar sessions covering a wide variety of subjects. Over the years, this group of seniors explored topics including art, dance, politics, networking and relationships, volunteerism, stress management, poetry, languages, and more. In addition to the academic experiences, the trips created lasting memories through shared playlists, sing-alongs, car games, conversations, and trying new foods in the dining hall. The program has given students a valuable chance to learn, grow, and prepare for future opportunities beyond high school. Otselic Valley congratulates these seniors and wishes them continued success in the future. Optional Subheadings Celebrating a Meaningful Tradition Learning Beyond the Classroom Seniors Reflect on Years of Growth Can this match the Facebook post more as it was a teacher's post and her reflection about the seniors. I don't want to change it that much Headline Final Colgate Seminar Celebrates OV Seniors Button Name Colgate Seminar Seniors Article Mrs. O recently shared a heartfelt reflection following last week’s final Colgate University Seminar of the year, which also served as a special “senior night” for participating students. These seminars give students in grades 9–12 the opportunity to explore college-level topics not typically available in high school while also experiencing a glimpse of life on a college campus. With four sessions held each year, the program has become a favorite tradition for many students. The seniors pictured have participated in the program since their freshman year. Over time, they explored a wide range of topics including art, dance, navigating the political world, networking and relationships, volunteerism, managing stress, poetry, languages, and more. Mrs. O also reflected on the many memories made along the way, including debates over the perfect playlist for the drive, group sing-alongs, car games, shared stories, and students stepping outside their comfort zones by trying new foods in the dining hall. She shared that it has been a joy to watch this group grow over the years and that she is excited to see where they go next. Optional Subheadings A Meaningful Senior Tradition Learning Beyond the Classroom Memories Made Along the Way Can I have a newsletter article from this Facebook post with my usual stuff I need for it: Recently, Hope Reynolds (Class of 2013), along with colleagues Meghan Feocco and Amanda Wasson, visited Mrs. Osowski’s sophomore seminar class to speak about careers in law enforcement and security. Each shared their unique journey, including their education, training, and experiences that led them to their current roles. They also gave students a glimpse into their day-to-day responsibilities—along with a few memorable stories from the field. We are always grateful for alumni who return to share their experiences and insights. Opportunities like this allow students to explore a variety of career paths and make meaningful connections as they think about their own futures. Headline Alumni and Guests Share Career Paths in Law Enforcement Button Name Career Guest Speakers Article Students in Mrs. Osowski’s sophomore seminar class recently welcomed Hope Reynolds, along with colleagues Meghan Feocco and Amanda Wasson, for a discussion about careers in law enforcement and security. Each guest shared their individual journey, including the education, training, and experiences that led them to their current roles. Students also learned about day-to-day responsibilities in the field and heard memorable stories from their professional experiences. Visits like this help students explore a variety of career pathways while making meaningful connections between classroom learning and future opportunities. Otselic Valley is always grateful to alumni and community members who return to share their experiences and inspire students as they begin thinking about their own futures. Optional Subheadings Exploring Careers in Public Service Alumni Return to Inspire Students Learning About Future Opportunities Uploaded image can I have a caption for this photo of the guest speakers Hope Reynolds, Meghan Feocco, and Amanda Wasson visited Mrs. Osowski’s sophomore seminar class to discuss careers in law enforcement and security. Can I have a news article from this Facebook post with my usual stuff: || Sweet Success in 6th Grade Cooking Class! Students in Ms. Cantrell’s 6th grade cooking class took on a fun (and fancy!) new recipe this week - Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups! As Ms. Cantrell shared, “We have outdone ourselves with this fancy recipe!” And the results certainly lived up to that statement. Students practiced their kitchen skills while creating a treat that looked just as impressive as it tasted. Great job to our 6th grade chefs! Headline Sweet Success in 6th Grade Cooking Class Button Name 6th Grade Cooking Class Article Students in Ms. Cantrell’s 6th grade cooking class recently created a fun and impressive new recipe: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups. The hands-on activity gave students an opportunity to practice important kitchen skills while following directions, preparing ingredients, and creating a finished treat they could be proud of. As Ms. Cantrell shared, “We have outdone ourselves with this fancy recipe!” The final results were both creative and delicious, showcasing the effort students put into the project. Cooking activities like this help students build confidence, develop practical life skills, and enjoy learning through hands-on experiences. Great job to the students in 6th grade cooking class on their sweet success. Optional Subheadings Hands-On Learning in the Kitchen Building Skills Through Cooking Creative and Delicious Results Can I have a generic caption of the photo collages for this article Students in Ms. Cantrell’s 6th grade cooking class practiced kitchen skills while creating Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups during a fun hands-on classroom activity. Uploaded image Uploaded image So I have two posts about girls and boys basketball all stars. Here they are: || Otselic Valley Girls’ Basketball All-Stars! Congratulations to our OV Vikings who were recognized as CCL All-Stars for the 2025–26 season! Your hard work and dedication on the court have made us proud! Second Team: • Mackenzie Reandeau Honorable Mentions: • Emma Rooker • Skyler Graham Great job, Vikings! #OVBasketball #OVPride AND || Otselic Valley Boys' Basketball All-Stars! Congratulations to our OV Vikings who were recognized as CCL All-Stars for the 2025–26 season! Your hard work and dedication on the court have made us proud! First Team: • Lukas Schieferstein Second Team: • Owen Davis Honorable Mention: • Caleb Loomis Great job, Vikings! #OVBasketball #OVPride CAN THIS BE ONE ARTICLE? I'll attach the graphics I have. I could post the senior photos, but it would have more students in it than the people who got all stars, is that okay or not? Yes — this should absolutely be one newsletter article. It’s cleaner, avoids repetition, and lets you celebrate both teams together. About Using Senior Photos I would not use senior photos as the main image for this article if they include students who were not selected as All-Stars. It could create confusion and unintentionally overlook the actual honorees. Better Options: Use the two graphics you created (best option) Team action photos from the season Group team photos with a caption like “OV varsity basketball teams during the 2025-26 season” If you later get individual photos of honorees, make a separate recognition post Headline OV Basketball Players Earn CCL All-Star Honors Button Name Basketball All-Stars Article Otselic Valley is proud to recognize several student-athletes who were named CCL All-Stars for the 2025–26 basketball season. These honors reflect the dedication, teamwork, and effort each player demonstrated throughout the season while representing the Vikings on the court. Girls’ Basketball Honors Second Team Mackenzie Reandeau Honorable Mentions Emma Rooker Skyler Graham Boys’ Basketball Honors First Team Lukas Schieferstein Second Team Owen Davis Honorable Mention Caleb Loomis Congratulations to all of these student-athletes on this well-earned recognition. Otselic Valley is proud of your accomplishments and the way you represented the Vikings this season. Optional Subheadings Recognizing Outstanding Seasons Vikings Earn League Honors Celebrating OV Basketball Success I just received this email: Received the following information that Lukas Schieferstein made the 2nd team CNY all-star for small schools. and here is a link to the article: https://www.syracuse.com/highschoolsports/2026/04/syracusecoms-all-central-new-york-small-school-boys-basketball-team-announced-for-2025-26-season.html can you access the article? PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU CAN'T. I need a Facebook post for this first. Yes — I could not directly open the full article text because Syracuse.com often places some content behind a paywall or limited-access wall. However, I was able to verify the article exists and confirms the All-Central New York Small School Boys Basketball Team for the 2025–26 season. Based on the information you received, I can confidently help with the post. Facebook Post 🏀 Another Big Honor for OV Basketball! Congratulations to Lukas Schieferstein on being named a Second Team All-Central New York Small School Boys Basketball All-Star by Syracuse.com for the 2025–26 season! This recognition highlights Lukas’s hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance on the court throughout the season. Otselic Valley is proud to see his efforts recognized among the top small school players in Central New York. Congratulations, Lukas! #OVBasketball #OVPride Should the headline mention Lukas or not? Yes — for a single-player recognition, the headline should mention Lukas. It makes the post clearer, stronger, and more personal. People scanning Facebook will immediately know who is being celebrated. Best Headline Options Strongest / Most Direct Lukas Schieferstein Earns All-CNY Basketball Honors School Pride Angle OV’s Lukas Schieferstein Named All-CNY Basketball All-Star More Formal Lukas Schieferstein Named Second Team All-CNY Small School All-Star Exciting / Social Media Friendly Another Big Honor for Lukas Schieferstein! My Recommendation for OV: Lukas Schieferstein Earns All-CNY Basketball Honors It’s clean, proud, and readable. Can I have the post again with the best headline 🏀 Lukas Schieferstein Earns All-CNY Basketball Honors Congratulations to Lukas Schieferstein on being named a Second Team All-Central New York Small School Boys Basketball All-Star by Syracuse.com for the 2025–26 season. This recognition reflects Lukas’s hard work, dedication, and strong performance on the court throughout the season. Otselic Valley is proud to see his efforts recognized among the top small school players in Central New York. Congratulations, Lukas! #OVBasketball #OVPride Uploaded image can I have alt text for this photo Otselic Valley basketball player wearing number 2 leaps high for a layup as the ball approaches the rim during a game, with an opposing player watching nearby in the gym.
|| Ag in the Classroom at Otselic Valley

Students at Otselic Valley have continued learning about agriculture through fun, hands-on experiences with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County.

In March, students celebrated Ag Literacy by reading Seasons on a Farm, a story that helped them learn about the important work farmers do throughout the year and how each season plays a role in growing the food we depend on. A special thank you goes to FFA Teacher Andrea Lehmann and her FFA students for assisting with the lesson, reading with classrooms, and helping students make meaningful connections to agriculture.

In April, students took part in an engaging embryology lesson where they explored the parts of a chicken egg and learned about the stages of chick development. Eggs were incubated right at Otselic Valley, giving students the opportunity to observe the process firsthand. Soon after, chicks began to hatch, allowing students to witness the full life cycle from egg to chick.

These interactive lessons continue to help students better understand agriculture and where our food comes from.

Newsletter image courtesy of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County – Ag in the Classroom
about 11 hours ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Newsletter-style graphic titled “Ag in the Classroom Otselic Valley” with Cornell Cooperative Extension and 4-H logos. Includes classroom photos of students participating in lessons, text describing March Ag Literacy activities with the book Seasons on a Farm and help from FFA students, plus an April embryology lesson where students learned about eggs and chick development. An illustration of a chick hatching from an egg appears in the lower corner.
|| Duck Derby Returns May 16!

One of the favorite traditions of Fishing & Heritage Day is back, the Duck Derby!

• Saturday, May 16
• 3:00 PM
• At the bridge, County Rd. 13 (subject to change)

Prizes:
1st Place: $200
2nd Place: $100
3rd Place: $50

Ducks are $5 each.

To purchase a duck, contact the Fishing & Heritage Association at melaniesmaroney@yahoo.com, stop by the OV Main Office to see Mrs. Cruikshank, or ask an FFA member for tickets.

Proceeds benefit the OV FFA and the Otselic Valley Fishing & Heritage Association.
about 14 hours ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Blue and yellow promotional graphic for the Duck Derby at Fishing and Heritage Day. Text reads “Join the Duck Derby!” with event details for Saturday, May 16 at 3:00 PM at the bridge on County Road 13. A yellow rubber duck wearing sunglasses floats in the water. Proceeds benefit the OV FFA and Otselic Valley Fishing and Heritage Association.
|| Community Event Reminder!

The South Otselic Emergency Squad will host a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 25, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

Enjoy a homemade breakfast while supporting the volunteers who serve our community.

The menu includes pancakes with maple syrup, sausage gravy and biscuits, eggs, hash browns, and beverages.

Freewill donation at the door.
1 day ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Flyer promoting a South Otselic Emergency Squad Pancake Breakfast on April 25 from 7:00 a.m. to noon with pancakes, eggs, sausage gravy and biscuits, hash browns, and beverages. Freewill donation.
|| Reminder: Order Your 2025–26 OV Yearbook!

Don’t miss your chance to order a copy of the 2025–26 Otselic Valley Yearbook.
Yearbooks can be ordered online through May 2.

Order here:
https://rebrand.ly/no1b1hm
School code: 5405

Thank you for supporting the OV Yearbook and helping preserve the memories of the 2025-26 school year.
1 day ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Graphic reminder to order yearbooks by May 2, 2026
|| Throwback Thursday: Fall Play Fun from 1999

We're throwing it back to the 2000 New Horizons yearbook "Millennium Moments!"

Today we’re featuring Otselic Valley’s 1999 Fall Play production of You Can’t Take It With You. These pages highlight scenes from the performance and the students who brought the production to life on stage!

From comedy moments to cast photos, it’s a fun look back at one of the many ways OV students have shared their talents through the years.
1 day ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Scanned yearbook page from the 2000 New Horizons yearbook featuring Otselic Valley’s 1999 Fall Play, You Can’t Take It With You. Several stage photos show student actors in costume on a living room set with a colorful crocheted couch. Scenes include actors posing on the couch, one actor lying across it, another at a desk with a typewriter, a student setting a table, and a couple dancing on stage.
Scanned yearbook page from the 2000 New Horizons yearbook featuring Otselic Valley’s 1999 Fall Play, You Can’t Take It With You. Multiple stage photos show student actors in costume during scenes at a dining table and around the living room set. One actor poses dramatically as an artist, another reads a newspaper, and a group scene shows several cast members gathered together.
|| REV Theatre Brings “Improv for All” to OV High School Students

Otselic Valley students in grades 9-12 recently enjoyed an exciting visit from The REV Theatre Co. who brought their interactive performance Improv for All to our school.

The engaging show explored the basics of improvisational theatre while sharing valuable life lessons about confidence, and resilience. Students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and reminded that it’s okay to make mistakes while learning and growing.

Audience participation made the experience even more memorable, and one OV senior even joined the performers on stage during an improv activity and did an amazing job.

Thank you to The REV Theatre Co. for bringing this fun, inspiring, and energetic program to our high school students!
1 day ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
The REV cast on stage performing
The REV cast on stage performing
The REV cast on stage performing
The REV cast on stage performing with an OV student
The REV cast on stage performing with an OV student
The REV cast on stage performing with an OV student
The REV cast on stage performing
The REV cast on stage performing
A REV Theatre performer talks to students
A REV Theatre performer talks to students
|| Reminder for Families

There will be no morning programs on April 24 and May 1.

We’ll see you again on May 8th!
2 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Otselic Valley Central School reminder graphic announcing no Morning Programs on April 24th and May 1st. Text says, “We’ll see you again on May 8th!” Includes the school logo and a photo of two young children holding American flags indoors.
|| Special Programs at Fishing & Heritage Day

Fishing & Heritage Day is just a few weeks away, and this year’s event will feature special programs presented by the Shakowi Cultural Center of the Oneida Indian Nation at the South Otselic Fish Culture Station.

Visitors can enjoy a presentation on the origins of lacrosse and traditional lacrosse stick making at 10:00 AM.

Children in Grade 2 and up are also invited to take part in Friendship Feathers craft sessions at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Participants will learn the meaning behind Friendship Feathers and create one to take home. Seating is limited to 30 participants per session.

Join us on Saturday, May 16 for a full day of activities throughout South Otselic!
2 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Blue and white promotional graphic for South Otselic’s 17th Fishing and Heritage Day. Text reads “Save the Date! Fishing & Heritage Day, Saturday, May 16, South Otselic.” Bottom photo shows a person fishing beside a pond with the Otselic Valley Fishing and Heritage Association logo.
Brochure page for South Otselic’s 17th Fishing and Heritage Day featuring photos from past events at five community locations. Images show vendor tents in the town park, antique tractors, the Otselic Valley School and library, the Powerhouse tiny home, fish hatchery tours, and children fishing at the hatchery pond.
Brochure page listing Fishing and Heritage Day activities at the South Otselic Fish Culture Station and other locations. Includes information about hatchery tours, fishing clinics, cemetery tours, food specials, thrift shop, chicken barbecue, and special programs by the Oneida Indian Nation including lacrosse demonstrations and Friendship Feathers craft sessions.
|| Let’s Go Vikings!

OV Athletics is back in action this week. Come out and support our student-athletes!

This Week’s Games:
Thursday, April 23
• Varsity Boys Golf vs. Cincinnatus at Apple Creek Golf Course – 3:30 PM
• Varsity Baseball vs. McGraw – 4:30 PM
• Varsity Softball vs. McGraw – 4:30 PM

Friday, April 24
• Varsity Baseball vs. Brookfield – 4:30 PM
• Varsity Softball vs. Brookfield – 4:30 PM

View the full schedule:
https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/79
2 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Graphic promoting OV Athletics with the words “Go Vikings! Support OV Athletics” over a baseball field background. A softball, baseball, and golf ball appear at the top, with the Otselic Valley Viking logo and the district values listed at the bottom.
|| Otselic Valley Earns School Safety Excellence Award

Otselic Valley Central School District has been recognized with the 2026 School Safety Excellence Award at the Titanium level from Utica National Insurance Group.

The award recognizes school districts and BOCES across New York State that demonstrate strong safety practices and a commitment to protecting students, staff, and visitors. Otselic Valley is one of 157 districts and BOCES programs statewide to receive the distinction.

The School Safety Excellence Award program evaluates areas such as bullying prevention, transportation safety, playground safety, and other initiatives that support a safe learning environment.

District officials accepted the recognition during Utica National’s 44th annual school safety seminar, where schools from across the state were honored for their dedication to school safety.

Otselic Valley is proud to continue prioritizing the safety and well-being of its school community.
3 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
News release announcing Otselic Valley Central School District received the 2026 School Safety Excellence Award at the Titanium level from Utica National Insurance Group for its safety efforts.

|| End-of-Year Schedule Changes

Otselic Valley Central School District would like to share the following calendar updates, approved by the Board of Education, due to unused snow days this school year:

• Friday, May 22 – No School
• Tuesday, June 23 – Full Day of School
• Thursday, June 25 – Half Day of School
• Friday, June 26 – No School

Please see the letter from Superintendent Brian Collier for full details.

3 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Letter from Otselic Valley Central School District dated April 21, 2026, announcing end-of-year calendar changes due to unused snow days. Changes include no school on May 22 and June 26, a full day on June 23, and a half day on June 25. Signed by Superintendent Brian Collier.
|| Ice Cream March Madness Bracket Challenge Winners Announced

Otselic Valley students and staff recently took part in the Ice Cream March Madness Bracket Challenge, with more than 50 brackets submitted.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:
• 1st Place: Eli Miller
• 2nd Place: Caleb Loomis
• 3rd Place: Payne Wood

Thank you to everyone who participated in this fun school challenge!
3 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Two Otselic Valley students stand indoors against a light-colored wall, smiling while holding certificates for the Ice Cream March Madness Bracket Challenge.
One Otselic Valley student stands indoors against a light-colored wall, smiling while holding a certificate for the Ice Cream March Madness Bracket Challenge.
|| Community Resource: Earth Rocks! Event

Families are invited to attend Earth Rocks! at the New York Energy Zone on Saturday, April 25 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

This free event features hands-on activities for kids, including crafts, building projects, and a showing of Disney’s Wall-E throughout the day.

The event will be held at the John S. Dyson New York Energy Zone in Utica (next to the Utica Zoo).
3 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Colorful flyer promoting “Earth Rocks!” event with date, time, kid-friendly activities, and location at the New York Energy Zone in Utica.
|| UPDATE! We have a winner!

Congratulations to Ms. Manchester on winning the musical basket raffle. Thank you to everyone who purchased chances. All proceeds will help fund future Drama Club productions. We appreciate your support.
4 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Two women stand indoors holding a wrapped gift basket together and smiling for the camera. The basket is decorated in clear cellophane with blue ribbon. Trophy cases and school hallway displays are visible in the background.

|| OV Drama Club Presents Emma JV The Musical
Congratulations to the Otselic Valley Drama Club on a wonderful production of Emma JV The Musical! Our students showcased their talent, creativity, and hard work through an entertaining performance filled with music, humor, and memorable moments.
From the cast on stage to the crew behind the scenes, this production reflected the dedication and teamwork that made the show a huge success.
Thank you to our directors, advisors, families, and community members for supporting our students and the arts at OV. Bravo to everyone involved on a fantastic performance!
Additional photos can be viewed here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Ya5bY733E5aboUYRA

4 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast, crew and directors of Emma the musical
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
Cast performing Emma on stage
|| National Honor Society Induction Ceremony Coming Soon!

As Otselic Valley prepares for this year’s National Honor Society Induction Ceremony, we would like to share information about the membership process.

National Honor Society recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, and character. Students in grades 10-12 are eligible for consideration with an overall GPA of 90% or higher. Eligible students who wish to be considered must also complete the application process, which includes submitting required materials for faculty review. Selection is based on the pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character.

Additional details regarding the selection process can be found in the OVCSD Student & Family Handbook, available on the Parents & Guardians page of our website: https://www.ovcs.org/o/ovcsd/page/parents-and-guardians and click on Student Handbook.

We are proud of all students who work hard in the classroom and contribute positively to our school community.
4 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Otselic Valley Central School graphic about National Honor Society membership. Text reads “Celebrating! Scholarship, Leadership, Service & Character.” It explains that National Honor Society membership considers academic eligibility, leadership, service, and character. Includes the school logo and a photo from a past NHS ceremony showing a student in a blue robe participating in a candle-lighting tradition on stage.
Thank you to all who attended Emma! A Modern Pop Musical JV this past weekend and thank you to all who purchased raffle tickets to support future Drama Club productions. We appreciate your support.

Congratulations to our winner, ticket #408498! Please present your ticket stub to Mrs Cruikshank in the main office to confirm your win and to claim your basket. *If the basket is not claimed by Wednesday, we will draw again.
4 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Image of the winning ticket from the performance of Emma! The Pop Musical this past weekend The coupon number is 408498
|| Reminder: Use of School Property

To help maintain a safe and respectful environment, the following guidelines apply when on Otselic Valley school property:
• No smoking or vaping on school grounds
• No ATVs/UTVs or other motorized recreational vehicles
• Playground use is intended for children ages 12 and under, with adult supervision
• Use of school property is at your own risk

We appreciate your cooperation in helping keep our campus safe for students and families.
5 days ago, Otselic Valley Central School District
Graphic titled “Reminder! Use of School Property” with Otselic Valley Central School branding and photo of the school building. Text lists guidelines: no smoking or vaping, no ATVs/UTVs or recreational vehicles, and playground use for ages 12 and under with adult supervision. Additional text reads, “Thank you for helping us maintain a safe environment.