|| Cosmic Bowling in PE!
Students in grades K-3 have been learning about bowling in PE, starting with the basics and the rules of the game.
To make things even more fun, students had the chance to try Cosmic Bowling, adding lights and music to the activity while they practiced the skills they’ve been learning.
A big thank you to Ms. Graham for making PE such a fun and engaging experience for our youngest students!
You can watch a video of the fun here!
|| OV Middle School Writers Featured in REV Theatre’s ECHOES Performance!
Otselic Valley recently welcomed The REV Theatre Co. for a performance of ECHOES, one of the largest middle school creative writing competitions in the United States for students in grades 6-8.
After participating in a classroom workshop with REV actors earlier this year, students from across New York State submitted original writing, including poems, stories, songs, and skits. Each year, thousands of entries are reviewed, and selected pieces are woven together into a unique 50-minute production brought to life with costumes, props, music, and characters.
We’re proud to share that an original piece by OV students was featured in the performance:
⭐ “News Report with Homer Waffles”
by Eleanor Swayze Epolito and Bruce Shoemaker
Several OV students also received Honorable Mentions for their creative work:
⭐ “The Crush”
by Danielle Hazzard-Beckwith and Eliana Witty
⭐ “It Feels Like I'm Floating Alone”
by Aurora Mason
⭐ “Writing This Paper”
by Milo Schlag
Many additional OV students also received certificates of participation for submitting their writing.
Following the performance, students were recognized during an awards ceremony celebrating their creativity and writing accomplishments.
Congratulations to all of our talented middle school writers! Thank you to The REV Theatre Company for bringing this inspiring program to Otselic Valley, and to our OV staff for supporting and encouraging students throughout the writing process.
Otselic Valley recently welcomed The REV Theatre Co. for a performance of ECHOES, one of the largest middle school creative writing competitions in the United States for students in grades 6-8.
After participating in a classroom workshop with REV actors earlier this year, students from across New York State submitted original writing, including poems, stories, songs, and skits. Each year, thousands of entries are reviewed, and selected pieces are woven together into a unique 50-minute production brought to life with costumes, props, music, and characters.
We’re proud to share that an original piece by OV students was featured in the performance:
⭐ “News Report with Homer Waffles”
by Eleanor Swayze Epolito and Bruce Shoemaker
Several OV students also received Honorable Mentions for their creative work:
⭐ “The Crush”
by Danielle Hazzard-Beckwith and Eliana Witty
⭐ “It Feels Like I'm Floating Alone”
by Aurora Mason
⭐ “Writing This Paper”
by Milo Schlag
Many additional OV students also received certificates of participation for submitting their writing.
Following the performance, students were recognized during an awards ceremony celebrating their creativity and writing accomplishments.
Congratulations to all of our talented middle school writers! Thank you to The REV Theatre Company for bringing this inspiring program to Otselic Valley, and to our OV staff for supporting and encouraging students throughout the writing process.
|| Art Contest Opportunity for High School Students
New York State high school students are invited to participate in the 2026 Law Day Art Contest, hosted by the New York State Unified Court System.
This year’s theme is “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” Students are encouraged to create original artwork that reflects what this theme means to them.
Submission Deadline: March 20, 2026
Learn more about contest rules and how to enter here:
https://history.nycourts.gov/law-day-art-contest/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
(Artwork shown is from a previous winning entry: First Prize, “E. Pluribus Unum – A Tapestry of Democracy,” by Elise Kwon.)
New York State high school students are invited to participate in the 2026 Law Day Art Contest, hosted by the New York State Unified Court System.
This year’s theme is “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” Students are encouraged to create original artwork that reflects what this theme means to them.
Submission Deadline: March 20, 2026
Learn more about contest rules and how to enter here:
https://history.nycourts.gov/law-day-art-contest/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
(Artwork shown is from a previous winning entry: First Prize, “E. Pluribus Unum – A Tapestry of Democracy,” by Elise Kwon.)
|| Reminder: Upcoming Otselic Valley Board of Education Meetings
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
• 11:00 AM – Finance Committee Meeting, Conference Room
Thursday, March 19, 2026
• 7:00 PM – Board of Education Meeting, Mirrored Cafeteria
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
• 11:00 AM – Finance Committee Meeting, Conference Room
Thursday, March 19, 2026
• 7:00 PM – Board of Education Meeting, Mirrored Cafeteria
|| OV Students Explore Careers in Social Work and Nursing
Several Otselic Valley students recently visited the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus campus to take part in a Delaware-Chenango-Madison-Otsego BOCES Careers Exploration Day focused on careers in Social Work and Nursing.
Accompanied by OV Academic and Career Counselor Ms. Macrino, students heard from SUNY Morrisville faculty about careers in human services and nursing and participated in hands-on learning activities in both areas.
Students also toured the Norwich branch campus and learned about local career opportunities from representatives from Chenango County.
Events like this give students a chance to explore potential career paths and learn more about educational opportunities after high school.
Several Otselic Valley students recently visited the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus campus to take part in a Delaware-Chenango-Madison-Otsego BOCES Careers Exploration Day focused on careers in Social Work and Nursing.
Accompanied by OV Academic and Career Counselor Ms. Macrino, students heard from SUNY Morrisville faculty about careers in human services and nursing and participated in hands-on learning activities in both areas.
Students also toured the Norwich branch campus and learned about local career opportunities from representatives from Chenango County.
Events like this give students a chance to explore potential career paths and learn more about educational opportunities after high school.
|| 2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
Come out and enjoy a delicious breakfast while supporting local FFA students.
Saturday, March 21
8:00 AM – Noon
Otselic Valley FFA students will be cooking and serving breakfast.
Sunday, March 22
8:00 AM – Noon
Breakfast will be served by Sherburne-Earlville FFA.
Location:
Whistlin’ Dixie Maple Sugarhouse
670 German Hollow Road, Smyrna
The menu includes pancakes, ham in maple syrup, sausage links, scrambled eggs, fresh 2026 maple syrup, coffee, tea, milk, and juice.
Cost: $10 per adult, $5 per child, and children 5 and under are free.
All proceeds will benefit the FFA chapters at Otselic Valley and Sherburne-Earlville Central Schools.
Come out and enjoy a delicious breakfast while supporting local FFA students.
Saturday, March 21
8:00 AM – Noon
Otselic Valley FFA students will be cooking and serving breakfast.
Sunday, March 22
8:00 AM – Noon
Breakfast will be served by Sherburne-Earlville FFA.
Location:
Whistlin’ Dixie Maple Sugarhouse
670 German Hollow Road, Smyrna
The menu includes pancakes, ham in maple syrup, sausage links, scrambled eggs, fresh 2026 maple syrup, coffee, tea, milk, and juice.
Cost: $10 per adult, $5 per child, and children 5 and under are free.
All proceeds will benefit the FFA chapters at Otselic Valley and Sherburne-Earlville Central Schools.
|| Have Class, Will Travel!
Mrs. Osowski’s U.S. History class took advantage of the warm temperatures and moved their lesson outside for the day.
Sometimes a change of scenery is the perfect way to enjoy learning!
Mrs. Osowski’s U.S. History class took advantage of the warm temperatures and moved their lesson outside for the day.
Sometimes a change of scenery is the perfect way to enjoy learning!
|| After-School Extra Help Available for OV Students
Otselic Valley is now offering after-school extra help sessions for students who would like additional academic support.
Schedule:
• Tuesdays (3:10-4:10 PM): Math & Science
• Wednesdays (3:10-4:10 PM): Regents Review (subject based on teacher availability)
• Thursdays (3:10-4:10 PM): ELA & Social Studies
Students who would like to attend should sign up outside Mr. Wentworth’s door.
Please note:
• Students must have their own transportation home at 4:15 PM, or
• They may go to the library until the late bus arrives or until a parent/guardian picks them up.
These sessions are a great opportunity for students to get extra help and prepare for exams.
Otselic Valley is now offering after-school extra help sessions for students who would like additional academic support.
Schedule:
• Tuesdays (3:10-4:10 PM): Math & Science
• Wednesdays (3:10-4:10 PM): Regents Review (subject based on teacher availability)
• Thursdays (3:10-4:10 PM): ELA & Social Studies
Students who would like to attend should sign up outside Mr. Wentworth’s door.
Please note:
• Students must have their own transportation home at 4:15 PM, or
• They may go to the library until the late bus arrives or until a parent/guardian picks them up.
These sessions are a great opportunity for students to get extra help and prepare for exams.
|| Students Interested in Taking Their Road Test?
Otselic Valley will be offering a 5-hour pre-licensing course on Monday, March 23, from 3:30–8:30 PM in Mr. Preston’s room.
This course is required for students who plan to schedule their road test.
Important details:
• Students must bring their learner’s permit
• The cost is $25 per student
• At least 10 students must sign up for the course to run
Students interested in attending should sign up in the District Office.
Otselic Valley will be offering a 5-hour pre-licensing course on Monday, March 23, from 3:30–8:30 PM in Mr. Preston’s room.
This course is required for students who plan to schedule their road test.
Important details:
• Students must bring their learner’s permit
• The cost is $25 per student
• At least 10 students must sign up for the course to run
Students interested in attending should sign up in the District Office.
|| History in Action: 7th Grade Debate
Our 7th grade Social Studies class recently held a debate to decide "Should colonists declare their independence from Britain?" Students worked in pairs to research individual colonists and create 1-to-2-minute arguments. The patriot team included notable figures such as Mercy Otis Warren, Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams, and Crispus Atticus. The loyalists team included Joseph Brant, Lord Dunmore, Jonathan Boucher, and Thomas Hutchinson. Students then worked in two teams to organize their debate to make their case for or against declaring independence.
Students did a wonderful job working together, crafting arguments, and thinking about why these individual historical figures felt the way they did about declaring independence. Next time we will have to invite debate judges, because we think all of the students were winners!
Our 7th grade Social Studies class recently held a debate to decide "Should colonists declare their independence from Britain?" Students worked in pairs to research individual colonists and create 1-to-2-minute arguments. The patriot team included notable figures such as Mercy Otis Warren, Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams, and Crispus Atticus. The loyalists team included Joseph Brant, Lord Dunmore, Jonathan Boucher, and Thomas Hutchinson. Students then worked in two teams to organize their debate to make their case for or against declaring independence.
Students did a wonderful job working together, crafting arguments, and thinking about why these individual historical figures felt the way they did about declaring independence. Next time we will have to invite debate judges, because we think all of the students were winners!
|| Pre-K through 5 Fun Night – This Thursday!
The Class of 2031 is hosting a Fun Night for Pre-K through 5 students on Thursday, March 12, from 3:00–5:00 PM. Students can enjoy an afternoon of snacks, games, and fun!
Event details:
• Date: Thursday, March 12
• Time: 3:00-5:00 PM
• Cost: $5 per student
• Grades: Pre-K through Grade 5
Food will also be available for purchase for an additional cost.
Important: Parents/guardians must pick up their children at the main entrance and must come to the door to get them.
We hope to see lots of students there for a fun afternoon!
The Class of 2031 is hosting a Fun Night for Pre-K through 5 students on Thursday, March 12, from 3:00–5:00 PM. Students can enjoy an afternoon of snacks, games, and fun!
Event details:
• Date: Thursday, March 12
• Time: 3:00-5:00 PM
• Cost: $5 per student
• Grades: Pre-K through Grade 5
Food will also be available for purchase for an additional cost.
Important: Parents/guardians must pick up their children at the main entrance and must come to the door to get them.
We hope to see lots of students there for a fun afternoon!
|| Ag in the Classroom at Otselic Valley
Students at Otselic Valley have been learning about agriculture in fun, hands-on ways through Ag in the Classroom with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County.
In January, students explored the world of goats and other ruminants, learning about their unique digestive systems, goat anatomy, and even meeting a baby goat named Hannah.
In February, the focus shifted to corn and popcorn, where students discovered how corn grows, studied kernel anatomy, and learned what makes popcorn pop. The lesson even included a fun “Human Popcorn Machine” activity and a popcorn treat at the end.
These engaging lessons helped students better understand the important role agriculture plays in our everyday lives.
Newsletter image courtesy of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County – Ag in the Classroom
Students at Otselic Valley have been learning about agriculture in fun, hands-on ways through Ag in the Classroom with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County.
In January, students explored the world of goats and other ruminants, learning about their unique digestive systems, goat anatomy, and even meeting a baby goat named Hannah.
In February, the focus shifted to corn and popcorn, where students discovered how corn grows, studied kernel anatomy, and learned what makes popcorn pop. The lesson even included a fun “Human Popcorn Machine” activity and a popcorn treat at the end.
These engaging lessons helped students better understand the important role agriculture plays in our everyday lives.
Newsletter image courtesy of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County – Ag in the Classroom
|| A Tasty Lesson in Grade 5!
Some of our fifth grade students recently made taco dip as part of a fun classroom activity. Students enjoyed working together and creating their own tasty snack.
A big thank you to Ms. Cantrell for creating amazing lessons that make learning both fun and memorable!
Some of our fifth grade students recently made taco dip as part of a fun classroom activity. Students enjoyed working together and creating their own tasty snack.
A big thank you to Ms. Cantrell for creating amazing lessons that make learning both fun and memorable!
|| Take a sneak peek at our upcoming spring musical!
Otselic Valley students are preparing to bring Emma JV: A Pop Musical to the stage. Check out this promo reel and mark your calendars for the performances!
• Friday, April 17: 7:00 PM
• Saturday, April 18: 2:00 PM (Matinee)
Watch the reel here!
|| Morning Program at OV
Students and staff gathered for our weekly Morning Program, a special tradition that brings our school community together.
During this week’s program, we celebrated our OV Star students and enjoyed a 3rd grade classroom showcase, highlighting some of the great learning happening in our classrooms!
Students and staff gathered for our weekly Morning Program, a special tradition that brings our school community together.
During this week’s program, we celebrated our OV Star students and enjoyed a 3rd grade classroom showcase, highlighting some of the great learning happening in our classrooms!
|| February OV Star Awards – Celebrating Perseverance!
We’re proud to recognize our February OV Star Award recipients for grades 6-12!
Each month, Otselic Valley honors students who demonstrate important character traits, and February’s theme was Perseverance, continuing to work hard, even when challenges arise.
Congratulations to:
⭐ Ameliah Wright
⭐ Kassidy Kelly
⭐ Skyler Graham
⭐ Jaden Gager
⭐ Isabella Sales
⭐ Cornelius Vroman
⭐ Kassidie Cruikshank
⭐ Jonathan Poole
⭐ Wyatt Fuller
⭐ Daniel Mowers
⭐ Taylor Marshall
⭐ Mariela Aguilar Domingo
⭐ Maddi Miller
⭐ Shelby Davis
Thank you for your determination, effort, and commitment to pushing forward and doing your best. You help make Otselic Valley a strong and supportive school community!
We’re proud to recognize our February OV Star Award recipients for grades 6-12!
Each month, Otselic Valley honors students who demonstrate important character traits, and February’s theme was Perseverance, continuing to work hard, even when challenges arise.
Congratulations to:
⭐ Ameliah Wright
⭐ Kassidy Kelly
⭐ Skyler Graham
⭐ Jaden Gager
⭐ Isabella Sales
⭐ Cornelius Vroman
⭐ Kassidie Cruikshank
⭐ Jonathan Poole
⭐ Wyatt Fuller
⭐ Daniel Mowers
⭐ Taylor Marshall
⭐ Mariela Aguilar Domingo
⭐ Maddi Miller
⭐ Shelby Davis
Thank you for your determination, effort, and commitment to pushing forward and doing your best. You help make Otselic Valley a strong and supportive school community!
|| Buddy Reading for Read Across America Week!
Our younger and older students came together this week for a special Buddy Reading activity in celebration of Read Across America Week.
Mrs. Brown’s 5th grade students joined Mrs. Stoklosa's 1st graders to share books and spend time reading. Students enjoyed their buddy reading time and sharing stories. Activities like this help build a love of reading while creating connections between students across grade levels.
#OVPride #ReadAcrossAmerica
Our younger and older students came together this week for a special Buddy Reading activity in celebration of Read Across America Week.
Mrs. Brown’s 5th grade students joined Mrs. Stoklosa's 1st graders to share books and spend time reading. Students enjoyed their buddy reading time and sharing stories. Activities like this help build a love of reading while creating connections between students across grade levels.
#OVPride #ReadAcrossAmerica
|| Looking for affordable dental care?
We’re sharing this opportunity as a community resource for OV families!
SUNY Broome Dental Hygiene students are currently seeking patients as part of their clinical training program. Community members can receive affordable dental care while helping students gain valuable hands-on experience.
To schedule an appointment, call 607-778-5015.
See the flyer for details about services and pricing.
We’re sharing this opportunity as a community resource for OV families!
SUNY Broome Dental Hygiene students are currently seeking patients as part of their clinical training program. Community members can receive affordable dental care while helping students gain valuable hands-on experience.
To schedule an appointment, call 607-778-5015.
See the flyer for details about services and pricing.
|| Program Opportunity for Teens – Starting Today
The Place in Norwich is offering “Why Try,” a resiliency class for youth up to age 17 designed to help students build confidence, perseverance, and life skills.
The program focuses on helping teens understand the value of trying hard, working through challenges, and building positive connections with peers and their community.
10-week series beginning March 5
The Place: 22 East Main St., Norwich
Free tuition and dinner provided
For questions or to sign up, contact The Place at (607) 336-9696 or email executivedirector@theplacenorwich.com.
The Place in Norwich is offering “Why Try,” a resiliency class for youth up to age 17 designed to help students build confidence, perseverance, and life skills.
The program focuses on helping teens understand the value of trying hard, working through challenges, and building positive connections with peers and their community.
10-week series beginning March 5
The Place: 22 East Main St., Norwich
Free tuition and dinner provided
For questions or to sign up, contact The Place at (607) 336-9696 or email executivedirector@theplacenorwich.com.
|| A Special Reader Visits First Grade!
As part of Read Across America Week, Otselic Valley Board of Education member Michael Foor-Pessin visited Mrs. Stoklosa’s first grade class to share a story with students.
Students enjoyed listening, asking questions, and spending time reading with a special guest. It was a fun way to celebrate a week dedicated to reading and literacy.
Thank you, Mr. Foor-Pessin, for helping make reading extra special for our first graders!
As part of Read Across America Week, Otselic Valley Board of Education member Michael Foor-Pessin visited Mrs. Stoklosa’s first grade class to share a story with students.
Students enjoyed listening, asking questions, and spending time reading with a special guest. It was a fun way to celebrate a week dedicated to reading and literacy.
Thank you, Mr. Foor-Pessin, for helping make reading extra special for our first graders!
