|| Exploring Native American Cultural Regions
Students in 5th grade recently hosted a Native American Cultural Regions Open House to showcase the work they’ve been doing.
Working in groups, students each studied one of the seven Native American cultural regions of North America. Their research included:
• Where the region is located
• Geography
• Food
• Shelter
• Cultural characteristics
• Clothing
• Tribes from the region
Students created informative posters and additional projects to represent their assigned regions, demonstrating creativity and a strong understanding of how geography influenced the daily lives and cultures of Native American groups.
Thank you to our students for their hard work and to staff for supporting this engaging learning experience!
Students in 5th grade recently hosted a Native American Cultural Regions Open House to showcase the work they’ve been doing.
Working in groups, students each studied one of the seven Native American cultural regions of North America. Their research included:
• Where the region is located
• Geography
• Food
• Shelter
• Cultural characteristics
• Clothing
• Tribes from the region
Students created informative posters and additional projects to represent their assigned regions, demonstrating creativity and a strong understanding of how geography influenced the daily lives and cultures of Native American groups.
Thank you to our students for their hard work and to staff for supporting this engaging learning experience!
|| OV Students Attend Area II SkillsUSA Competition
Recently, two Otselic Valley juniors, enrolled at DCMO BOCES, attended the Area II SkillsUSA Competition held at SUNY Morrisville.
Georgia Cookingham and Shelby Davis, both enrolled in the Auto Technology program at DCMO BOCES Alan D. Pole Campus, participated in different aspects of the event. Georgia served as a delegate and took part in activities in the House of Delegates, while Shelby competed in the Job Interview competition.
Both students really enjoyed the experience and are excited to come back next year as seniors. We’re proud of their professionalism and enthusiasm as they participated in SkillsUSA!
|| The OV Sports Boosters are hosting a President’s Day fundraiser, and they’d love your support!
Celebrate President’s Day evening with dinner, dessert, and a great cause at Gilligan’s Ice Cream.
• Monday, February 16th
• 4:00-8:00 PM
• 20% of sales during this time will benefit the OVCS Sports Boosters.
Come out, enjoy some delicious food and ice cream, and help support our Viking student-athletes. We hope to see you there!
Celebrate President’s Day evening with dinner, dessert, and a great cause at Gilligan’s Ice Cream.
• Monday, February 16th
• 4:00-8:00 PM
• 20% of sales during this time will benefit the OVCS Sports Boosters.
Come out, enjoy some delicious food and ice cream, and help support our Viking student-athletes. We hope to see you there!
|| 100th Day of School Fun at OV!
This week, our PreK-2 students celebrated the 100th Day of School by rotating through classrooms for a variety of fun, 100-themed activities!
During the celebration, students put their skills to the test by seeing what they could do in 100 seconds -- like jumping in place -- counted and grouped candy into 10 sets of 10, completed their own 100 Day books, and colored festive 100th Day hats!
They also had their photos taken and used a special filter to get a glimpse of what they might look like at 100 years old! To add to the fun, many students and staff dressed up as 100-year-olds for the celebration.
Thank you to our teachers and staff for putting together such a great experience for our students!
This week, our PreK-2 students celebrated the 100th Day of School by rotating through classrooms for a variety of fun, 100-themed activities!
During the celebration, students put their skills to the test by seeing what they could do in 100 seconds -- like jumping in place -- counted and grouped candy into 10 sets of 10, completed their own 100 Day books, and colored festive 100th Day hats!
They also had their photos taken and used a special filter to get a glimpse of what they might look like at 100 years old! To add to the fun, many students and staff dressed up as 100-year-olds for the celebration.
Thank you to our teachers and staff for putting together such a great experience for our students!
|| Morning Program at OV
We started our Friday the OV way with the Pledge of Allegiance and a patriotic song, followed by student shares from each classroom, including the weather and lunch menu. During Kids with Character, students talked about the importance of honesty.
Students also shared jokes and fun facts, bringing lots of smiles to the room. We then celebrated birthdays -- Happy Birthday to Raymond, Amelia, and Blake!
We enjoyed two OV’s Got Talent performances this morning. First, Noelle sang “Beautiful Things” and did a wonderful job, the audience even joined in for parts of the song! Our second act featured Ms. Huntley and The Valentines, who danced to “502 Nonsense,” getting everyone up on their feet and dancing along.
Ms. Hicks also shared an update about the American Heart Association Kids Heart Challenge and thanked everyone for their donations. To wrap up the program, everyone danced in place with Turbo from the Kids Heart Challenge.
What a great way to start our Friday!
We started our Friday the OV way with the Pledge of Allegiance and a patriotic song, followed by student shares from each classroom, including the weather and lunch menu. During Kids with Character, students talked about the importance of honesty.
Students also shared jokes and fun facts, bringing lots of smiles to the room. We then celebrated birthdays -- Happy Birthday to Raymond, Amelia, and Blake!
We enjoyed two OV’s Got Talent performances this morning. First, Noelle sang “Beautiful Things” and did a wonderful job, the audience even joined in for parts of the song! Our second act featured Ms. Huntley and The Valentines, who danced to “502 Nonsense,” getting everyone up on their feet and dancing along.
Ms. Hicks also shared an update about the American Heart Association Kids Heart Challenge and thanked everyone for their donations. To wrap up the program, everyone danced in place with Turbo from the Kids Heart Challenge.
What a great way to start our Friday!
|| REMINDERS FOR OUR VIKINGS!
Winter Sports & Club Photo Day is Tuesday, February 24th
• Winter sports team AND individual photos will be taken first thing in the morning.
• All winter sports teams will be photographed at that time.
Varsity Basketball photos will begin promptly at 7:50 a.m. Players should arrive on time to be included in both team and individual photos.
Additional team and club photos will follow throughout the morning.
Winter Sports & Club Photo Day is Tuesday, February 24th
• Winter sports team AND individual photos will be taken first thing in the morning.
• All winter sports teams will be photographed at that time.
Varsity Basketball photos will begin promptly at 7:50 a.m. Players should arrive on time to be included in both team and individual photos.
Additional team and club photos will follow throughout the morning.
|| Happy School Resource Officer Appreciation Day!
Today, we recognize and thank Deputy Smith, our School Resource Officer, for the many ways he supports the Otselic Valley community each and every day.
From building positive relationships with students to helping maintain a safe and welcoming school environment, Deputy Smith plays an important role in our school community.
We appreciate your dedication and commitment to OV!
Today, we recognize and thank Deputy Smith, our School Resource Officer, for the many ways he supports the Otselic Valley community each and every day.
From building positive relationships with students to helping maintain a safe and welcoming school environment, Deputy Smith plays an important role in our school community.
We appreciate your dedication and commitment to OV!
|| Transportation Reminders for OV Families
We have a couple of important transportation reminders to share:
|| Transportation Requests
All transportation changes or requests must be submitted by 1:00 PM to the Transportation Department or Main Office. Requests may be made via:
• Phone call
• My Ride
• Email
Please note: After 1:00 PM, transportation changes cannot be made unless there is an emergency.
|| Spring Bus Drills
Spring bus drills will take place between March 1st and April 30th.
Thank you for your cooperation and support in helping us keep our students safe!
We have a couple of important transportation reminders to share:
|| Transportation Requests
All transportation changes or requests must be submitted by 1:00 PM to the Transportation Department or Main Office. Requests may be made via:
• Phone call
• My Ride
Please note: After 1:00 PM, transportation changes cannot be made unless there is an emergency.
|| Spring Bus Drills
Spring bus drills will take place between March 1st and April 30th.
Thank you for your cooperation and support in helping us keep our students safe!
|| OV Girls Basketball Senior Night – February 10, 2026
The OV girls varsity basketball team hosted Madison on February 10 for a hard-fought matchup and a meaningful Senior Night celebration.
The Vikings battled until the final buzzer in a close contest, falling 36-29 after a strong defensive effort and determined play throughout the game. The energy in the gym reflected just how proud we are of this team and especially our seniors!
⭐ Congratulations to our varsity seniors:
Miranda Hackett
Lilly Palmer
Kenzie Reandeau
Skyler Graham
Abby White
Emma Rooker
Seniors, your legacy is not defined by a single game, but by the leadership, determination, and heart you’ve shown throughout your time in the program. Once a Viking, always a Viking!
⭐ A special Senior Night recognition was also given to Josie Guernsey, senior cheerleader, and Wyatt Eaton, who has shared his talent by singing the National Anthem at many of our home games this season. Thank you both for helping create the spirit and tradition that make Otselic Valley special.
We are proud of this team and grateful for an evening dedicated to honoring our seniors.
The OV girls varsity basketball team hosted Madison on February 10 for a hard-fought matchup and a meaningful Senior Night celebration.
The Vikings battled until the final buzzer in a close contest, falling 36-29 after a strong defensive effort and determined play throughout the game. The energy in the gym reflected just how proud we are of this team and especially our seniors!
⭐ Congratulations to our varsity seniors:
Miranda Hackett
Lilly Palmer
Kenzie Reandeau
Skyler Graham
Abby White
Emma Rooker
Seniors, your legacy is not defined by a single game, but by the leadership, determination, and heart you’ve shown throughout your time in the program. Once a Viking, always a Viking!
⭐ A special Senior Night recognition was also given to Josie Guernsey, senior cheerleader, and Wyatt Eaton, who has shared his talent by singing the National Anthem at many of our home games this season. Thank you both for helping create the spirit and tradition that make Otselic Valley special.
We are proud of this team and grateful for an evening dedicated to honoring our seniors.
|| When the internet goes down, we go old school!
Between this morning’s two-hour delay and unexpected internet issues, students in Mrs. Raymond’s science class had to dust off a classic learning tool -- the dictionary!
No Wi-Fi? No problem. These Vikings proved that strong research skills don’t depend on a signal.
Great job adapting and making the most of the day!
Between this morning’s two-hour delay and unexpected internet issues, students in Mrs. Raymond’s science class had to dust off a classic learning tool -- the dictionary!
No Wi-Fi? No problem. These Vikings proved that strong research skills don’t depend on a signal.
Great job adapting and making the most of the day!
|| After-School Activities Canceled for Today, February 12
Otselic Valley has canceled all after-school activities today.
The Board of Education meeting will still be held as scheduled this evening.
Otselic Valley has canceled all after-school activities today.
The Board of Education meeting will still be held as scheduled this evening.
|| Throwback Thursday: Girls Basketball, 2012
We’re taking it back to the 2012 Otselic Valley Central School Girls Basketball season!
These photos come from the 2012 OVCS Yearbook, “Setting Roots and Growing Up,” and highlight our Varsity and JV Girls Basketball teams.
From game action on the court to team portraits in the gym, it’s a great reminder that Viking pride runs deep, then and now.
We’re taking it back to the 2012 Otselic Valley Central School Girls Basketball season!
These photos come from the 2012 OVCS Yearbook, “Setting Roots and Growing Up,” and highlight our Varsity and JV Girls Basketball teams.
From game action on the court to team portraits in the gym, it’s a great reminder that Viking pride runs deep, then and now.
|| URGENT ALERT
Due to weather conditions, Otselic Valley Central School District will operate on a two-hour delay today, Thursday, February 12th
• No AM BOCES
• No Breakfast
Please review the revised schedule, and travel safely and allow extra time when traveling.
Due to weather conditions, Otselic Valley Central School District will operate on a two-hour delay today, Thursday, February 12th
• No AM BOCES
• No Breakfast
Please review the revised schedule, and travel safely and allow extra time when traveling.
|| Free STEM & Robotics Workshops During Winter Break
Looking for something fun and educational to do during Winter Recess (Feb. 16-20)? The New York Energy Zone is offering free STEM workshops all week, including hands-on activities focused on energy, robotics, and drones.
Workshops are available for different age groups, and registration is required as space is limited.
• Located next to the Utica Zoo
• Call (315) 792-8725 or scan the QR code on the flyer to register
Looking for something fun and educational to do during Winter Recess (Feb. 16-20)? The New York Energy Zone is offering free STEM workshops all week, including hands-on activities focused on energy, robotics, and drones.
Workshops are available for different age groups, and registration is required as space is limited.
• Located next to the Utica Zoo
• Call (315) 792-8725 or scan the QR code on the flyer to register
|| OV Spring Sports Sign-Ups Are Open!
It’s that time of year -- Varsity spring sports sign-ups are now open for Otselic Valley student-athletes!
Varsity Spring Sports
• Baseball
• Softball
• Golf
Season begins March 9
Modified Spring Sports Registration is not open yet
• Must be completed within one month of the season start date
Season begins April 13
Register through FamilyID: https://rebrand.ly/140onb6
Let’s get ready for a great spring season -- Go Vikings!
It’s that time of year -- Varsity spring sports sign-ups are now open for Otselic Valley student-athletes!
Varsity Spring Sports
• Baseball
• Softball
• Golf
Season begins March 9
Modified Spring Sports Registration is not open yet
• Must be completed within one month of the season start date
Season begins April 13
Register through FamilyID: https://rebrand.ly/140onb6
Let’s get ready for a great spring season -- Go Vikings!
|| Valentine’s Day Fun Night
The OVCS Class of 2028 is hosting a Valentine’s Day Fun Night for students in grades K-5!
• Friday, February 13, 2026
• 3:00-5:30 PM
• OV Gym & MPR
• $12 admission (includes 1 pizza slice & 1 drink)
Students can look forward to a fun afternoon with games, crafts, a bounce house, face painting, movies, sports, dancing, and more. Additional snacks and candy will be available for purchase.
Permission slips will be sent home this week and must be returned by Thursday, February 12.
For questions, please contact Marisa Raymond at mrice@ovcs.org.
The OVCS Class of 2028 is hosting a Valentine’s Day Fun Night for students in grades K-5!
• Friday, February 13, 2026
• 3:00-5:30 PM
• OV Gym & MPR
• $12 admission (includes 1 pizza slice & 1 drink)
Students can look forward to a fun afternoon with games, crafts, a bounce house, face painting, movies, sports, dancing, and more. Additional snacks and candy will be available for purchase.
Permission slips will be sent home this week and must be returned by Thursday, February 12.
For questions, please contact Marisa Raymond at mrice@ovcs.org.
|| Afterschool Grief Group Canceled Today
Please note that the afterschool grief group scheduled for today has been canceled. Thank you for your understanding.
Please note that the afterschool grief group scheduled for today has been canceled. Thank you for your understanding.
|| Let’s Go Vikings!
OV girls and boys basketball teams are in action this week -- come out and support our student-athletes!
This Week’s Games:
Monday, Feb. 9
• Boys Varsity @ Manlius Pebble Hill at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, Feb. 10
• Girls Varsity vs. Madison (Home) at 6:00 PM
Wednesday, Feb. 11
• Girls 7/8 @ Stockbridge Valley at 5:00 PM
Thursday, Feb. 12
• Girls JV @ Harpursville at 5:30 PM
• Girls Varsity @ Harpursville at 7:00 PM
Friday, Feb. 13
• Girls 7/8 @ Cincinnatus at 4:30 PM
View the full schedule: https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/79
OV girls and boys basketball teams are in action this week -- come out and support our student-athletes!
This Week’s Games:
Monday, Feb. 9
• Boys Varsity @ Manlius Pebble Hill at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, Feb. 10
• Girls Varsity vs. Madison (Home) at 6:00 PM
Wednesday, Feb. 11
• Girls 7/8 @ Stockbridge Valley at 5:00 PM
Thursday, Feb. 12
• Girls JV @ Harpursville at 5:30 PM
• Girls Varsity @ Harpursville at 7:00 PM
Friday, Feb. 13
• Girls 7/8 @ Cincinnatus at 4:30 PM
View the full schedule: https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/79
|| Student Recognition
Congratulations to Gage Foster, a senior at Otselic Valley, who was recognized as an Unsung Hero of Section III Boys Basketball in The Post-Standard / Syracuse.com.
Gage was highlighted for his dedication and willingness to support the team. As Coach Jacob Preston shared, “Gage is willing to help out the team in any way! Many times, he is willing to keep stats for us when no one wants to. He does not complain in his role on the team, he shows up every day to help out the program.”
We’re proud to see Gage recognized for his commitment and teamwork!
Read more from Syracuse.com here: https://rebrand.ly/mxj0mv2
Please note, a subscription is required to view the full article.
Congratulations to Gage Foster, a senior at Otselic Valley, who was recognized as an Unsung Hero of Section III Boys Basketball in The Post-Standard / Syracuse.com.
Gage was highlighted for his dedication and willingness to support the team. As Coach Jacob Preston shared, “Gage is willing to help out the team in any way! Many times, he is willing to keep stats for us when no one wants to. He does not complain in his role on the team, he shows up every day to help out the program.”
We’re proud to see Gage recognized for his commitment and teamwork!
Read more from Syracuse.com here: https://rebrand.ly/mxj0mv2
Please note, a subscription is required to view the full article.
|| Senior Night for OV Girls Basketball!
Join us on Tuesday, February 10 as we celebrate our OV Girls Basketball seniors during Senior Night! Senior recognition will take place at 5:30 PM, followed by the game vs. Madison at 6:00 PM.
Come out and help us recognize the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our seniors as they take the court one last time at home.
Go Vikings! 💛🖤
Join us on Tuesday, February 10 as we celebrate our OV Girls Basketball seniors during Senior Night! Senior recognition will take place at 5:30 PM, followed by the game vs. Madison at 6:00 PM.
Come out and help us recognize the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our seniors as they take the court one last time at home.
Go Vikings! 💛🖤
