Originally delivered on 12/18/2024 1:05 pm

SUBJECT: Stevens Superstar Spotlight | Your PTA Newsletter for December, Issue #1

Superstar Spotlight: Illuminating News from Stevens PTA, December 2024, Issue #1

Contact the PTA | Stevens PTA Website | Family Directory | Join the PTA |

Stevens Elementary Website | BH-BL Website

A Fond Farewell and Warm Holiday Wishes

As we approach the holiday season, I want to take a moment to reflect on all the wonderful things happening within our school community. December is a time of celebration, togetherness, and gratitude, and there is so much to be thankful for this year.

First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Evans, our incredible principal, who has been a guiding light for our Stevens Superstars. Dr. Evans has dedicated his career to fostering a nurturing, inspiring, and inclusive environment for our students, families, and staff. As he prepares to retire this month, we celebrate his remarkable legacy and all he has done for our school. Thank you, Dr. Evans, for your unwavering commitment to excellence—you will be deeply missed, but your impact will be felt for years to come.

December also brings the excitement of the holiday season and the anticipation of our school break. I hope this time allows your family to rest, recharge, and create cherished memories together. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, may your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and laughter.

Finally, I want to thank each of you—our amazing families and PTA members—for your continued support, dedication, and enthusiasm. This year has already been filled with so many memorable events and initiatives, and I look forward to what we’ll accomplish together in the months ahead.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

-Nichole Harrell

December PTA Meeting Highlights

The PTA extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Evans for his leadership and dedication as he transitions out of his role, and a warm welcome to Mr. Vacca, our new principal, who is already embracing the Stevens community with enthusiasm.

Shining Stars recognized all volunteers who supported recent events, including the Veterans Day Breakfast and Holiday Shop. Special appreciation goes to Jenn Terpening, Holiday Shop chair, for her hard work and coordination, and to Jesse Johnson for generously donating time, supplies, and items for the PTA table.

Key Updates

  • The BOE reviewed the Capital Project timeline, with major building infrastructure improvements planned through 2026.
  • Stevens continues to lead the district academically, with teachers celebrating the holiday season and encouraging families to prepare snow gear for outdoor activities.

Upcoming Events

  • Family Movie Night – April
  • Ice Skating Opportunities – Holiday break & January
  • Parents Social – January
  • Fun Run – June (a new event to fund arts, enrichments, and free family activities!)
  • Fifth Grade Fundraiser – Placemat ad initiative underway

Arts & Enrichment

We celebrated the success of programs like SPAC residencies and performances, which enrich student experiences. The PTA is seeking a volunteer to coordinate this rewarding role next year!

The next PTA meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 6:30pm in the Library. To view the full meeting minutes via Google Docs, please click here.   

Join the PTA

Do you know a dedicated volunteer or staff member within the Stevens school or community who deserves special recognition? Nominate them for one of the highest honors given by the NYS PTA!

Since 1939, the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake PTAs have celebrated exceptional individuals at the district-wide Founders Day Dinner, which will be held this year on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Century House in Latham.

Award recipients are recognized for their remarkable dedication, years of service, and for going “above and beyond” to support local students, families, and the school system. These outstanding individuals will be honored at the event and receive a Lifetime Honorary Membership in PTA.

How to Nominate Someone:

  1. Check here to ensure the individual you’re nominating hasn’t already received this award
  2. Submit your nomination form 

All nominations will be reviewed and voted on by the Stevens PTA Executive Board to decide the winner(s).

🌟 Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by Monday, January 6.
🌟 Questions? Contact Sally Draina, Stevens Founders Day Representative, at 📧 sdraina14@gmail.com.

Help us celebrate those who make a difference in our community by submitting a nomination today!

Support Our 5th Grade Family Dinner Fundraiser

Our 5th graders are gearing up for the annual Family Dinner Fundraiser, and we need your help to make it a success! This beloved tradition supports our graduating Stevens Superstars and is made possible through the generosity of our community.

Here’s How You Can Help:

  1. Placemat Ads
    Do you own a business or know someone who does? Promote your business while supporting a great cause by purchasing an ad on our placemats, which will be used during the Family Dinner.

    • Cost: $30 per spot
    • Details: Your business logo or image will be featured on the placemat, used by all attendees.
    • Bonus: This is an excellent way to advertise to local families while supporting the 5th-grade class!

  2. Raffle Donations
    If you or your business would like to donate an item or gift card for our raffle, it would be greatly appreciated! The raffle is always a highlight of the evening, and your contribution helps make it extra special.

Why It Matters

This fundraiser supports the 5th-grade activities and events, giving our students a memorable send-off as they prepare for middle school.

If you’re interested in contributing or have questions, please reach out to Staci DeMasi, smead1028@yahoo.com.

Thank you for helping us make this a wonderful event for our 5th-grade Superstars!

Thank You to Our Volunteers and Community Partners!

BH-BL Backpack Program

A heartfelt thank you to Knight's Orchard, The Giving Tree, and Market 32 Glenville for helping us support families this Thanksgiving:

  • Knight's Orchard donated apples for every backpack.
  • Market 32 Glenville provided 20 bags of canned goods.
  • The Giving Tree matched the canned goods and added bread.

Together, we distributed 48 bags across the district and were able to send extra backpacks home to families for Thanksgiving break. 

Thank you for supporting our school community!


Thank You for a Wonderful Holiday Shop!

A huge thank-you to Jenn Terpening for chairing this year’s Holiday Shop! Your hard work, organization, and dedication made the event a huge success.

We also want to express our gratitude to the amazing volunteers who helped with setup, assisted students with their shopping, and handled cleanup. You made everything run smoothly and brought so much holiday cheer!

Finally, thank you to the talented crafters and creators who provided unique and beautiful items for the shop. Your contributions added a special touch and made the event extra memorable.

Thanks to all of you, this year’s Holiday Shop was a joyful and successful experience for our students and families.

School Banking Program with First New York

We’re excited to continue our partnership with First New York Federal Credit Union to help students develop smart saving habits through our school banking program.

How It Works:

  1. Open a First New York Federal Credit Union savings account for your child, either at a local branch or online here.

  2. School Banking Day: Every Thursday, 8:20–9:00 AM in the cafeteria.

  3. Students can make deposits and earn fun prizes.

Volunteer Opportunity:
Help students with their deposits during School Banking Day. Even a few mornings can make a big difference! 

Interested in volunteering or have questions? Please contact Kimberly Heikaus, kheikaus@gmail.com.

Let’s work together to teach our students the importance of saving and money management. Sign your child up today—and sign up to lend a hand!

1/21: Science Night, MiSci, 5:00pm

1/31: Popcorn Friday, sponsored by Mohawk Honda

2/12: Family Dinner, 5:00pm

2/28: Popcorn Friday, sponsored by Mohawk Honda

3/11: 4th & 5th Grade Dodgeball Tournament

3/28 Popcorn Friday, sponsored by Mohawk Honda

12/23-1/3: Holiday Break

1/9: PTA Meeting, Library, 6:30pm

1/20: MLK Jr. Day, No School

1/24: K-5 Half Day

1/29: Lunar New Year, No School

2/4: PTA Meeting, Library, 6:30pm

2/14: Valentine's Day

2/17-2/21: Winter Recess

2/25-2/28: Kindergarten Registration

3/4: PTA Meeting, Library, 6:30pm

3/5: K-12 Half Day; Ash Wednesday

3/14: St. Patrick's Day

3/18: K-5 Half Day, Grades 6-12 No School

3/20: Founders Day Dinner, Century House, 6:00pm


View the full BH-BL District Calendar

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