|| Otselic Valley Library: May Calendar
Here’s what’s happening at the Otselic Valley Public Library this May!
From programs and clubs to community activities, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Highlights this month include Cook with Darian, Chair Yoga, Bread Club, Sprout Workshop, Chess, and a special F & H Event/Powerhouse Open House.
Take a look at the calendar and plan a visit, the library is open Monday–Friday, 3-7 PM (unless otherwise noted).
We hope to see you there!
Here’s what’s happening at the Otselic Valley Public Library this May!
From programs and clubs to community activities, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Highlights this month include Cook with Darian, Chair Yoga, Bread Club, Sprout Workshop, Chess, and a special F & H Event/Powerhouse Open House.
Take a look at the calendar and plan a visit, the library is open Monday–Friday, 3-7 PM (unless otherwise noted).
We hope to see you there!
|| Burn Injury Prevention and Safety Presentation for OV Students
Otselic Valley 10th and 11th grade students recently met with Kelly Reed, Burn Injury Prevention and Education Outreach Coordinator with the Clark Burn Center at Upstate University Hospital, as part of their seminar courses.
During the presentation, students learned about cooking and microwave safety, gas-powered machines, ATV and side-by-side safety, the risks of accelerants, lithium-ion battery safety, smoke detectors, escape planning, and fire safety tips for future apartment or college living.
OV staff member Mr. McCann also spoke with students about using a fire extinguisher, becoming a firefighter, and shared insights from his own experiences.
Thank you to Kelly Reed, the Clark Burn Center, and Mr. McCann for sharing this valuable information with our students.
Otselic Valley 10th and 11th grade students recently met with Kelly Reed, Burn Injury Prevention and Education Outreach Coordinator with the Clark Burn Center at Upstate University Hospital, as part of their seminar courses.
During the presentation, students learned about cooking and microwave safety, gas-powered machines, ATV and side-by-side safety, the risks of accelerants, lithium-ion battery safety, smoke detectors, escape planning, and fire safety tips for future apartment or college living.
OV staff member Mr. McCann also spoke with students about using a fire extinguisher, becoming a firefighter, and shared insights from his own experiences.
Thank you to Kelly Reed, the Clark Burn Center, and Mr. McCann for sharing this valuable information with our students.
|| Now Open to Grades 4–7! -- Class of 2030 Overnight Event
The Class of 2030 is hosting an overnight event for students in grades 4-7 on Friday, May 8!
• 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• OV School (gym, cafeterias, library, and classrooms)
• $25 per student
Admission includes: pizza, drink, snack, an ice cream sundae bar, and breakfast.
Permission slips and payment are due by May 4.
Please see the permission form for full details, including what to bring and event expectations.
The Class of 2030 is hosting an overnight event for students in grades 4-7 on Friday, May 8!
• 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• OV School (gym, cafeterias, library, and classrooms)
• $25 per student
Admission includes: pizza, drink, snack, an ice cream sundae bar, and breakfast.
Permission slips and payment are due by May 4.
Please see the permission form for full details, including what to bring and event expectations.
|| Fishing & Family Activities at Fishing & Heritage Day
Fishing & Heritage Day offers a variety of hands-on activities for all ages throughout the day.
• Fishing Clinics (9:00–11:30 AM & 12:30–3:00 PM)
Young anglers can try fishing at the hatchery pond with help from NYS DEC and Trout Unlimited. No license is required, and equipment and bait are provided.
• Kiddie Fishing Pool
Younger children can enjoy a fun introduction to fishing at the Town Park.
• Old-Time Carnival Games & Activities
Families can also enjoy games, crafts, and activities throughout the park.
Join us on Saturday, May 16 for a full day of free activities across the South Otselic community.
Fishing & Heritage Day offers a variety of hands-on activities for all ages throughout the day.
• Fishing Clinics (9:00–11:30 AM & 12:30–3:00 PM)
Young anglers can try fishing at the hatchery pond with help from NYS DEC and Trout Unlimited. No license is required, and equipment and bait are provided.
• Kiddie Fishing Pool
Younger children can enjoy a fun introduction to fishing at the Town Park.
• Old-Time Carnival Games & Activities
Families can also enjoy games, crafts, and activities throughout the park.
Join us on Saturday, May 16 for a full day of free activities across the South Otselic community.
|| The Viking Voice is Here!
The March/April 2026 edition of The Viking Voice is now available. Catch up on news, stories, and celebrations from across Otselic Valley.
This issue features classroom highlights, recent events, and updates from around the district.
Read it here: https://rebrand.ly/dcc583
The March/April 2026 edition of The Viking Voice is now available. Catch up on news, stories, and celebrations from across Otselic Valley.
This issue features classroom highlights, recent events, and updates from around the district.
Read it here: https://rebrand.ly/dcc583
|| Throwback Thursday: 1948 Kindergarten Class!
This week’s Throwback Thursday takes us back to the 1948 South Otselic Centralian Yearbook, featuring the Kindergarten class.
Pictured in their classroom with teacher Mrs. VanNostrand, these students were starting their school years nearly 80 years ago.
This week’s Throwback Thursday takes us back to the 1948 South Otselic Centralian Yearbook, featuring the Kindergarten class.
Pictured in their classroom with teacher Mrs. VanNostrand, these students were starting their school years nearly 80 years ago.
|| Otselic Valley Celebrates 30-Week Honor Roll Students
We are proud to recognize our students in Grades 6-12 who earned Honor Roll recognition for the 30-week marking period.
This accomplishment reflects hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic success throughout the school year.
Congratulations to all of our honorees!
We are proud to recognize our students in Grades 6-12 who earned Honor Roll recognition for the 30-week marking period.
This accomplishment reflects hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic success throughout the school year.
Congratulations to all of our honorees!
|| DCMO BOCES Upcoming Student Events
For Otselic Valley students and families who attend programs through DCMO BOCES, please note these upcoming events at the Alan D. Pole Campus:
Senior Showcase / Open House
Thursday, May 28, 2026
5:30-7:00 p.m.
End of the Year Ceremony
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Full-day Students: 12:15 p.m.
CTE Awards: 6:00 p.m.
Please contact DCMO BOCES with any event-specific questions.
Photo shows 2025 Otselic Valley graduate Alex Remillard pictured at last year’s DCMO BOCES Senior Showcase at the Alan D. Pole Campus.
|| Class of 2030 Overnight Event for Grades 5-7
The Class of 2030 is hosting an overnight event for students in grades 5–7 on Friday, May 8!
• 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• OV School (gym, cafeterias, library, and classrooms)
• $25 per student
Admission includes pizza, drink, snack, an ice cream sundae bar, and breakfast.
Permission slips and payment are due by May 4.
Please see the permission form for full details, including what to bring and event expectations.
The Class of 2030 is hosting an overnight event for students in grades 5–7 on Friday, May 8!
• 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• OV School (gym, cafeterias, library, and classrooms)
• $25 per student
Admission includes pizza, drink, snack, an ice cream sundae bar, and breakfast.
Permission slips and payment are due by May 4.
Please see the permission form for full details, including what to bring and event expectations.
|| Let’s Go Vikings!
OV Athletics continues this week. Come out and support our student-athletes!
Thursday, April 30
• Varsity Boys Golf vs. Cincinnatus at Knickerbocker Country Club – 3:30 PM
• Varsity Baseball vs. LaFayette – 4:30 PM
Friday, May 1
• Varsity Softball vs. Cincinnatus – 4:30 PM
View the full schedule:
https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/79
OV Athletics continues this week. Come out and support our student-athletes!
Thursday, April 30
• Varsity Boys Golf vs. Cincinnatus at Knickerbocker Country Club – 3:30 PM
• Varsity Baseball vs. LaFayette – 4:30 PM
Friday, May 1
• Varsity Softball vs. Cincinnatus – 4:30 PM
View the full schedule:
https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/79
|| Join Us for OV Community Budget Presentations
Otselic Valley Central School District invites community members to attend one of two Community Budget Presentations hosted by Superintendent Brian Collier and Business Official Chad Walls.
These sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the proposed 2026-27 school budget, ask questions, and share input ahead of the official Budget Hearing in May.
Presentation Dates:
Tuesday, May 5 at 5:00 PM
Georgetown Town Hall
Wednesday, May 6 at 5:30 PM
Otselic Town Hall
Light refreshments will be provided for those attending.
The Annual Budget Vote and Board Member Election will take place Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Otselic Valley Central School.
We encourage all residents to attend and participate in the budget process.
Otselic Valley Central School District invites community members to attend one of two Community Budget Presentations hosted by Superintendent Brian Collier and Business Official Chad Walls.
These sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the proposed 2026-27 school budget, ask questions, and share input ahead of the official Budget Hearing in May.
Presentation Dates:
Tuesday, May 5 at 5:00 PM
Georgetown Town Hall
Wednesday, May 6 at 5:30 PM
Otselic Town Hall
Light refreshments will be provided for those attending.
The Annual Budget Vote and Board Member Election will take place Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Otselic Valley Central School.
We encourage all residents to attend and participate in the budget process.
|| Boys’ Golf Earns Road Win Over Madison!
The boys’ golf team delivered a strong performance on the road against Madison last night, bringing home an impressive win 207-244. Leading the way was Owen Davis, who fired a standout 38 and highlighted his round with an eagle on hole No. 3. Owen, Alex Doroshenko, Landon Barber, Jeb Dolbec, and Luke Doroshenko each secured victories over their individual opponents, while Chase Barber narrowly missed his match. It was a great all-around effort. Excellent work, boys!
The boys’ golf team delivered a strong performance on the road against Madison last night, bringing home an impressive win 207-244. Leading the way was Owen Davis, who fired a standout 38 and highlighted his round with an eagle on hole No. 3. Owen, Alex Doroshenko, Landon Barber, Jeb Dolbec, and Luke Doroshenko each secured victories over their individual opponents, while Chase Barber narrowly missed his match. It was a great all-around effort. Excellent work, boys!
|| LPP Students Celebrate a Successful Year with Colgate Tutors!
Otselic Valley LPP students who worked with their Colgate tutors this year recently held an end-of-year celebration at Gilligan’s in Sherburne.
Throughout the year, these tutoring partnerships provided students with valuable support, encouragement, and learning opportunities. We are grateful to our Colgate tutors for all of the time and help they shared with our students.
We wish our Colgate friends the very best on their upcoming finals and look forward to seeing everyone again in the fall!
Otselic Valley LPP students who worked with their Colgate tutors this year recently held an end-of-year celebration at Gilligan’s in Sherburne.
Throughout the year, these tutoring partnerships provided students with valuable support, encouragement, and learning opportunities. We are grateful to our Colgate tutors for all of the time and help they shared with our students.
We wish our Colgate friends the very best on their upcoming finals and look forward to seeing everyone again in the fall!
|| Softball & Baseball Games Moved to 5:00 PM!
Today’s softball and baseball games have been moved to a 5:00 PM start time.
Today’s softball and baseball games have been moved to a 5:00 PM start time.
|| Sixth Grade Cooking Class Tries Seasonal Ingredients
Students in sixth grade recently made ramp pesto pasta during cooking class, using ramps (a wild spring plant known for its onion-garlic flavor).
With ramp season still underway for a few more weeks, students had the opportunity to cook with this unique seasonal ingredient while building kitchen skills and trying something new.
Thank you to Ms. Cantrell for leading this fun and engaging lesson with our students!
Students in sixth grade recently made ramp pesto pasta during cooking class, using ramps (a wild spring plant known for its onion-garlic flavor).
With ramp season still underway for a few more weeks, students had the opportunity to cook with this unique seasonal ingredient while building kitchen skills and trying something new.
Thank you to Ms. Cantrell for leading this fun and engaging lesson with our students!
|| Need Attire for Prom?
The CVFree Prom Closet is helping students find the perfect outfit for prom and other formal events. Dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are available in a variety of sizes and styles so every student can feel confident and ready for their special event.
Items are available with a $20 refundable deposit, making this a great option for students and families looking for affordable formalwear.
The last 2026 Open House Date!
• Thursday, April 30 | 6–8 PM
CVFree Church
4299 NY-23, Norwich
For more information, contact CVFree Prom Closet at 607-371-3326 or visit @cvfreepromcloset.
The CVFree Prom Closet is helping students find the perfect outfit for prom and other formal events. Dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are available in a variety of sizes and styles so every student can feel confident and ready for their special event.
Items are available with a $20 refundable deposit, making this a great option for students and families looking for affordable formalwear.
The last 2026 Open House Date!
• Thursday, April 30 | 6–8 PM
CVFree Church
4299 NY-23, Norwich
For more information, contact CVFree Prom Closet at 607-371-3326 or visit @cvfreepromcloset.
|| Happy School Bus Driver Appreciation Day!
On April 28, 2026, we celebrate our incredible Otselic Valley Central School bus drivers who safely transport our students to and from school each day!
They brave early mornings, all kinds of weather, and busy roads to ensure our students arrive safely and on time.
They greet students with a smile and help create a welcoming, safe environment on every ride.
Their dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed!
Thank you to our amazing OV bus drivers for all that you do!
On April 28, 2026, we celebrate our incredible Otselic Valley Central School bus drivers who safely transport our students to and from school each day!
They brave early mornings, all kinds of weather, and busy roads to ensure our students arrive safely and on time.
They greet students with a smile and help create a welcoming, safe environment on every ride.
Their dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed!
Thank you to our amazing OV bus drivers for all that you do!
|| Madison County Families – Free Bike Opportunity!
Community Bikes Hamilton is offering FREE bikes to families in need for transportation, exercise, or just for fun! If you or someone you know could use a bike, this is a great opportunity.
Distribution Days:
• Hamilton, NY: Sunday, May 3
• Oneida, NY: Saturday, May 16
Who is eligible?
Bikes are available to children and adults who do not already have a bike and who are:
• Residents of Madison County
• Eligible for Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, SSD, or other cash assistance
• Experiencing other demonstrated needs or special circumstances
How to apply:
Madison County residents can apply online at:
https://www.communitybikes.org/receive-a-bike
Each bike recipient must be pre-registered and present to receive a bike.
Please feel free to share this opportunity with families who may benefit!
Community Bikes Hamilton is offering FREE bikes to families in need for transportation, exercise, or just for fun! If you or someone you know could use a bike, this is a great opportunity.
Distribution Days:
• Hamilton, NY: Sunday, May 3
• Oneida, NY: Saturday, May 16
Who is eligible?
Bikes are available to children and adults who do not already have a bike and who are:
• Residents of Madison County
• Eligible for Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, SSD, or other cash assistance
• Experiencing other demonstrated needs or special circumstances
How to apply:
Madison County residents can apply online at:
https://www.communitybikes.org/receive-a-bike
Each bike recipient must be pre-registered and present to receive a bike.
Please feel free to share this opportunity with families who may benefit!
|| First Grade Field Trip to Colgate Science Center
Our first grade students enjoyed an exciting field trip to the Ho Science Center and Ho Tung Visualization Lab and Planetarium, where they had many great learning opportunities throughout the day.
They were met by Joe Eakin, who was a tremendous guide for the day. After learning a bit about what to expect, students went into the science building and were able to venture up to the planetarium. There, they took a virtual tour of the solar system and learned more about the Milky Way Galaxy’s planets, moons, and stars. They also had a tour of the night sky and learned how to spot different constellations in our local sky this time of year. They all loved getting to experience the planetarium!
After the planetarium, they were given a tour of the geology museum by two Colgate Class of 2027 geology students, Megan and Jiani. They showed us local samples of rocks, minerals, and fossils. They were able to learn about Herkimer diamonds, which are only found in Herkimer, New York. After that, we explored the museum with a scavenger hunt. They ended the experience by getting to hold real fossils and learn about Colgate’s fossilized dinosaur egg.
It was a very fascinating and fun day! Students could be heard commenting on how fun and cool the experience was throughout the day.
Thank you to the Colgate Science Outreach Program for making this trip possible, and to Joe Eakin for coordinating the visit.
Our first grade students enjoyed an exciting field trip to the Ho Science Center and Ho Tung Visualization Lab and Planetarium, where they had many great learning opportunities throughout the day.
They were met by Joe Eakin, who was a tremendous guide for the day. After learning a bit about what to expect, students went into the science building and were able to venture up to the planetarium. There, they took a virtual tour of the solar system and learned more about the Milky Way Galaxy’s planets, moons, and stars. They also had a tour of the night sky and learned how to spot different constellations in our local sky this time of year. They all loved getting to experience the planetarium!
After the planetarium, they were given a tour of the geology museum by two Colgate Class of 2027 geology students, Megan and Jiani. They showed us local samples of rocks, minerals, and fossils. They were able to learn about Herkimer diamonds, which are only found in Herkimer, New York. After that, we explored the museum with a scavenger hunt. They ended the experience by getting to hold real fossils and learn about Colgate’s fossilized dinosaur egg.
It was a very fascinating and fun day! Students could be heard commenting on how fun and cool the experience was throughout the day.
Thank you to the Colgate Science Outreach Program for making this trip possible, and to Joe Eakin for coordinating the visit.
|| 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!
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!
