Welcome to the Van Antwerp Middle School website!
Please refer to the parent corner at right for forms and information pertinent to families. News stories and upcoming events can be found below.
Northern McCullough To Compete In Regional Spelling Bee.
Good luck to Northern McCullough as he represents Van Antwerp Midle School in the Regional Spelling Bee held at Proctors on February 7. Click here to see the full story from the district website.
Return to TopStudents, Families and Faculty Support The Community Through Reading.
The 2012 Read-A-Thon was held on Friday, January 27 and was a great success. Over 150 VA students and former students participated. Students participated in quiet reading, games and the creation of warm-up kits for the City Mission. Optional doanations collected during the evening are divided amongst the Double H Ranch Adaptive Ski Program, Alex's Lemonade Stand and the Susan Burke Memorial Scholarship Fund. Thanks to all of the faculty, staff and families that helped make this a special evening.
Internet Safety Forum
February 1, 2012
Thomas Grimes-NYPD
Van Antwerp parents/guardians are invited to an internet safety forum in the VA auditorium on Wednesday, Februruary 1 at 6:00 p.m. The fourm will feature Thomas Grimes, a retired NYPD police officer and internet safety specialist.
Mr. Grimes has 20 years expereince on the NYPD, has been featured on The Today Show and is the subject of the upcoming book Unheralded Heroes.
Click here for a link to the flyer for this event---> 
PDF _____
MS Word
Click here to visit Officer Grimes' website
Groundhog Day Dance
Friday, February 3
Read-A-Thon Scheduled for Friday, January 27, 2012
Van Antwerp's annual Read-A-Thon is scheduled for Friday, January 27 . This event is open to students and familis and includes an opportunity to read silently, enjoy a variety of games and engage in community service/support. Please click here for all of the details.
MS Robotics Program
The middle school technology teachers and a group of VA students presented to the Board of Education on Tuesday, January 10. They described the robotics component of the 6th and 8th grade technolnology curriculum. For the full story from the district website, click here.
1-12-12
Two Hour Snow Delay
Congratulations Super Students for Quarter 2
Van Antwerp Middle School recognizing students for great work each quarter and designates them as "Super Students"! Students can be recogized for a variety of accomplishments, including scholarship, community service, citizenship and improvement. Congratulations to our Super Students for quarter 2!
Click here for a list of Super Students for quarter 2.
Alex Wei Wins The Van Antwerp Geography Bee
VA Musicians and Singers
Ring in the Holidays
Van Antwerp Middle School students were treated to a holiday conert from their classmates on Wednesday, December 21 in the VA gymatorium (or audinasium). The concert was performed by the Jazz band, 7th & 8th grade chorus, 6th grade chorus and middle school strings. It included a nice selection of jazz, classical, movie themed and holiday selections. Great job musicians and singers!
Unplanned Fire Drill/False Alarm
December 15, 2011
Van Antwerp had an unplanned fire drill this morning at 8:10 a.m.. The alarm sounded due to a malfunction of of our cafeteria dishwasher's venting system, causing our smoke/heat sensor to pick up a enough steam to set off the alarm. Please click on the link below for a copy of the letter going home with students.
Fire Evacuation Letter MS Word____ PDF
HS Orientation & Course Selection
2011-2012
Attention 8th grade parents: The Program of Studies is being distributed to your son/daughter this week. Please be aware that the timeline for program planning is fast approaching. The parent meeting with school counselors and department directors on transitioning to the high school and curriculum choices is on January 4th with a snow date of January 5th at the high school. Students will meet with their counselor at Van Antwerp during flex and lunch from January 3rd to February 10th to secure their class choices for 9th grade. Please discuss the Program of Studies with your son/daughter so that he or she is prepared for these meetings prior to the appointment. An electronic copy of the Program of Studies can be found here.
Community Day: A Great Learning Experience for VA Students
Van Antwerp held their third annual Community Day on Friday, November 10. The day was a tremendous success and well received by our entire school community. Please click here for the full story from the district webpage, including a photo gallery of the day.
Congratulations to Super Students for Quarter 1
Van Antwerp Middle School recognizing students for great work each quarter and designates them as "Super Students"! Students can be recogized for a variety of accomplishments, including scholarship, community service, citizenship and improvement. Congratulations to our Super Students for fall 2011!
Click here for a list of Super Students for quarter 1.
VA Collecting Coats for Schoharie
This holiday season, Van Antwerp Middle School is collecting new or used coats and jackets for those impacted by this fall's flooding. A drop box can be found in the VA main office. Don't throw away those coats your children have grown out of! Think about donating them to someone in need!
Please click here for details .
Message from Mr. Rakoczy Regarding Current Situation at NHS
November 3, 2011
Dear VA Families,
As a member of the Niskayuna school community, I share your concern over the recent events at the high school and would like to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring students are safe and FEEL safe in school.
A letter was sent home with students today. It explains the situation at the high school and the measures being taken to address it. The letter includes all of the details that I know at this time. Both the letter and links to further information from niskyschools.org are posted below.
Please let me know what I can do to help as we work through this situation.
Sincerely,
Luke Rakoczy
Principal
Van Antwerp Middle School
Letter sent home with students on November 3-----> PDF
Link to information from the district website---->click here
Link to information about middle school assemblies -----> click here
Halloween 2011
On October 28 and 31, Van Antwerp Middle School will be offering several opportunities for students to enjoy Halloween fun!
On Monday, October 31, students will have the chance to wear a costume to school. To ensure that this doesn't distract from learning on that day, we remind students and families that our dress code still applies with the added guidelines listed below. On October 31, 6th grade students will also be treated to a performance of spooky songs by our grade 6 chorus and Mrs. Rice from 3-3:30
in the auditorium. On Friday, October 28 we will also have a dance for VA students, complete with "haunted hallway" The DANCE/SOCIALdetails can be found in the attachment below along with a few ways parents can help or participate.
Costume Guidelines ------> PDF _____ MS Word
Halloween Social Flyer -------> PDF _____ MS Word
Ice-Cream Social and Book Fair
On Friday, October 14, Van Antwerp will be hosting their annual Ice-Cream Social and Book Fair from 6-8 p.m. in the cafeteria. This event is free to all student and families. Books are available for purchase through Scholastic. The Book Fair will also be available in school on Thursday, October 13. Proceeds from the sale of books go to the VA PTO for use to support student programs.
84 Car Wash Postponed
Please check Mrs. Newell's website for updates on the 84 team's annual car wash, originally scheduled for Sunday, October 2, 2011. It has been postponed due to weather. Click on Mrs. Newell's name in this message or find her under "Teams and Teachers" for car wash related updates.
BTS Dance: Rolling Out the Red Carpet for our 6th Graders
On
Septemer 23, Van Antwerp held a back to school dance for our 6th graders. W.E.B. leaders were on hand to assist with dances and team-building activities. Over 80 of our 6th graders were in attendance. The dance featured food, games, dancing, basketball and a chance to enjoy time with friends. Special thanks to
our W.E.B. leaders, Mr. McFerran and our VA PTO for their help in organizing this event.
VA Students Honored With Summer Choir Participation
Van Antwerp was honored again this year to have several students selected for
participation in the Middle School Honors Choir. directed by Craig Dension from Florida. They were among a select group of middle schoolers from all over the state . Our students, Jon Burstyn, Liam McGrinder, Marlene Lawston, and Will Whisenhunt performed at the New York State Summer Conference at the Crowne Plaza in Albany, NY from August 21-23, 2011.
Also selected to participate at the conference was Kasey Krauss as part of the Elementary Children's Honor Choir which included students completing 6th grade. Their conductor was Emily Ellsworth from Chicago.
Back -To-School Nights
Van Antwerp Middle School will be holding our Back-To-School Nights ion the following dates. This is a chance for parents to visit our school, get a feel for their child's school day and to find out more about our middle school program. A detailed letter will be coming home with students.
Grade 6 BTS Night Letter __ PDF __ MS Word
Grade 7/8 BTS Night Letter_ PDF __ MS Word
Dates
Grade 6 Special Area Classes ------September 14: 7 p.m.
Grade 6 Team Classes------September 21: 7 p.m. (BTS BBQ from 4:30-6:30)
Grade 7&8 Team Classes ------October 5: 7 p.m.
Yearbook Pre-Orders
2011-12
Yearbook pre-orders are currently being accepted at Van Antwerp. Please use the attached order form and return it to your homeroom teacher or the Main Office.
Click here to access the order form..____
BTS BBQ-September 21
Thanks to everyone that supported our BTS barbecue on September 21.
Thank You For Your Support
Get Your Nisky Gear Here!
Niskayuna apparel is being sold by the Van Antwerp PTO this year. Please use the attached order form to place an order. Please place your order by October 12. Your item(s) will arive in approximately two weeks. Items offered include tote bags, windbreakers, sweatshirts/hoodies, knit caps and sweatpants. Tables will be set up at our 9/21 and 10/5 back-to-school nights. Consider placing an order with us! Proceeds go to the VA PTO and directly back to student programs.
Van Antwerp Efforts to Assist Flood Victims
Van Antwerp MS will be hosting two events aimed at helping those impacted by the recent flooding in the Schoharie valley
VA will be holding a faculty basketball game on Thursday, September 15 from 3:30-4:15 after school. The admission price is $2 for students. Late busing is available for students who need it.
On Saturday, September 17, Van Antwerp faculty and staff will be working to bag groceries at the Niskayuna Co-op. Groceries will also be carried to vehicles for customers. VA and the Co-op will be accepting non perishable food donations and monetary donations at this event.
Niskayuna Co-op Benefit Flyer___ MS Word
Welcome Back !
Niskayuna CSD had their first day of school on Tuesday, September 6.
Welcome back to all of our students! We look forward to working with you!
Grade 6: Parent & Student
Locker Morning
6th graders are invited to bring a parent with them to school Wednesday morning, September 7th from 8-8:50 a.m. to help them move supplies into their lockers. Parents and students should report directly to their child's homeroom. All 63 and 66 teachers will be assigning lockers at this time. Students and parents will have time to open, organize and practice the combination on their locker. We feel this is a good opportunity to become more familiar and comfortable with one of the new things 6th graders encounter here at the middle school!
Please park along Dexter Street or in the Story Ave lot. Please avoid parking on the road in or around the intersection of Story and Palmer. You will block the departure of our buses!
Grade 6 Orientation
Monday, August 29
9-11:30 a.m.
Orientation for all incoming 6th grade students will be held on Monday, August 29 from 9-11:30 a.m.. Use the links below for a copy of the letter sent home during the week of August 1. This is the correct date. Please disregard the date listed on the district calendar.
Health Education Website & Parent Review Night
Please check out the new health education website. It includes information about the health curriculum, policy, health related topics and opt-out procedures. Click here or use the parent corner at the upper right to access the page.
The health department will also be hosting a Parent Review Night on October 12. This is an opportunity for families to review the health curriculum with health education staff. Use the links below for a copy of the letter detaling the Review Night and important points regarding the health curriculum.
Back-To-School Mailing
Summer 2011
Back-to-School mailings will be sent home late in the week of
August 15, 2011.
The mailing will include...
- A welcome back letter
- Team assignment
- Homeroom assignment
- Lunch Price
- Team supply list
- Information about the VA PTO School Store
Bus information will come in a separate mailing from transportation. Detailed student schedules will be waiting in homeroom on the first day.
For those wishing to get a jump on school supply shopping, supply lists for each team can be found in the "Parent Corner" to the upper right. While supplies are specific to teams, many are common to the grade level. Our VA PTO School Store will have summer hours available in late August and during particular lunch periods as the school year begins.
Enjoy the rest of the summer!!
VA Student Wins DAR History Award
Kaitlyn Schmitz was awarded the Daughters of the American Revoltion History Award for her work this school year. The award is given to one 8th grader that shows particular interest, aptitude and enthusiasm for American history. Congratulations Kaitlyn!
Van Antwerp
Grade 8-Moving Up Ceremony
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Van Antwerp will be holding their annual Moving Up Ceremony to recognize grade 8 students and their transition to the high school on Tuesday, June 21. Use the link below for a copy of the letter sent home with interim reports.
Moving Up Letter --> MS Word
VA Grade 8 Tour D.C.!
On May 9-11, VAn Antwerp 8th graders traveled to WAshington D.C. as part of the culmination of their middle school experience. Students visited historic sites, museums, monuments and memorials that tie in to their studies over the past three years. This included visits to the U.S. Capitol Building, Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery, Old Post Office, Vietnam Wall, Korean War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial. They also stopped to tour the Gettysburg battlefield during the ride down.
Our 8th graders learned a great deal and had fun doing it! Thanks to adults and students alike for their hard-work and efforts in support of this experience.
Thank You VA Families!
Faculty Apprecation Lunch
The faculty and staff of Van Antwerp Middle School would like to thank our PTO and all of the parents and families that helped to make Thursday's Faculty Appreciation Lunch possible. We really appreciate the time, effort and thought that went into the lunch. It was fantastic!
Grade 6 Parent Orientation
Wednesday, May 25
6-8 p.m.
Thank You Voters!
Thank you voters for coming out in the highest numbers in a decade (3,305) to decide on the 2011-12 school budget. Please click here for the results of the budget vote from the Niskayuna website.
School Budget Vote
Tuesday, May 17
Residents of Niskayuna Central School District will vote on the 2011-12 school budget on Tuesday, May 17. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. at Niskayuna High School.
Please note: The annual school budget vote will take place in the band/orchestra room adjacent to the new West Entrance to the high school.
Details about next year's proposed school budget are posted here. A copy of the 2011-12 budget edition of the Your Schools district newsletter will also be mailed to community members prior to vote.
Science Bowl Team Finishes Fourth at Nationals
The VA Science Bowl Team finished fourth at the National Science Bowl Competition in Washington D.C.. Click here to see the full story and to read Mrs. Soron's day-by-day blog. Congratulations to our science bowlers!
Congratulations VA Musicians and Singers!
This was a great week for our middle school music program! The VA 7th-8th grade chorus received a Gold rating for their performance at the NYSSMA Choral Festival . The VA 6th grade chorus received a Gold With Distinction rating for their performance.
The Suburban Council Music Festival was held at Shenendohowa on April 9. Students auditioned in January and were selected for this weekend.
Michael Zhou for orchestra; Chad Rockwell, Claire Sweeney, and Kat Taylor for band: Teddy Arcidicano, Alex Del Vecchio, Stefani Farrell, Alice Hollocher, Kasey Krauss, Liam McGrinder, Olivia Mancuso, Meghan Mausert, Spencer Rockwell, and Will Whisenhunt for chorus.
Crumpled Classics
Thursday, April 7 & Friday, April 8
On April 7 and 8, Van Antwerp Middle School's Drama Club will be performing a production of "Crumpled Classics". Tickets are available at the door. Click on the poster at the right for dates and prices.
Click here for a copy of the program.
Study Circles Students Meet At VA.
On March 31, Martin Luther King Magnet School students met at VA students as part of the joint Niskayuna-Schenectady Study Circles group. Students toured Van Antwerp, ate lunch together and discussed middle school and plans for building an understanding of diversity through SCED.
Niskayuna Students to Play in Suburban Council Music Festival
The weekend of April 9 is the 2011 Suburban Council Music Festival held at Shenendehowa. Niskayuna had (26) students selected by audition for this regional festival. The culminating concert will be held at 3:00PM on Saturday at Shenendehowa High School EAST. The concert is free and open to the public!
Click here for a list of participating students.
Information Regarding 4-1-11
Building Evacuation
During the Student Council Dance on Friday, April 1, the fire alarm sounded, prompting a temporary evacuation from the building. The alarm sounded due to a sensor malfunction. The detailed letter going home with students can be found here.
Congratulations Super Students!
Each quarter Van Antwerp's faculty and staff recognize particular students as "Super Students". Students are recognized for academic achievement, scholarship, citizenship, improvement or for their overall contributions to our school.
Please click here for a list of our "Super Students" for March 2011. Congratulations on a job well done!
VA Magazine Drive
Thank You For Your Support!
Thank you to everyone that supported our Van Antwerp Magazine Drive. We were able to garner 158 subscriptions, falling just short of our goal of 200. This means an additonal $1500 for our PTO. These funds are used to directly support student programs and instruction in our building.
Congratulations Math Counts Team
Congratulations to our Van Antwerp Math Counts Team for their performance in the state competition at RPI on March 19. The team placed 13th overall. Van Antwerp’s “A” team consists of Alex Wei (captain), Liam McGrinder, Jason Tang and Andrei Akhmetov. Alex came in 5th place overall. Van Antwerp’s “B” team consists of Vladimir Malcivic (captain), Osama Minhas, Michael Zhou and Angeeras Zamanath. Great job team!
Click here for the full results.
VA Chorus Sings at the Plaza!
The Van Antwerp Middle School Grade 6 CChorus and the Chamber Strings performed at the Empire State Plaza on Thursday, March 24.
Great job VA musicians & singers!
For the full story and a photo gallery, click here.
Intramural Athletics Calendar
April 2011
Van Antwerp intramural sports are offered based on the calendar posted below. These activities are open to all VA students. Intramurals are meant to allow anyone to enjoy athletics, sample a variety of activities and to have an alternative to interscholastic sports.
Click here for a copy of the April 2011 schedule.
Students Explore Their Career Interests
On March 11, Students in grade 7 took part in our annual CCareer Day. This is an opportunity for students to explore career options by hearing from community professionals. The day included a keynote address from Lydia Kulbida, classroom presentations and a career fair format that allowed children to speak with professionals informally. Thanks to the community members and VA faculty and staff that helped make this day a success!
VA Science Bowl Team Captures 7th Consecutive Science Bowl Crown!
The Van Antwerp Science Bowl team won the Regional Championship at GE Knolls Atomic Power Lab on Saturday, March 6. The team was undefeated in the academic portion of the competition and placed second in the fuel cell car race. They qualify to compete in the national competition in Washington D.C. from April 29-May 4. This marks the 7th consecutive year that the VA team has won at regionals.
Congratulations to Coach Soron and the team consisting of...
Robert Kaucic
Martin Schreiner
Alex Wei
Jason Tang
Andrei Akmetov
Green Team Triumphs in VA
Faculty Volleyball Tournament!
The Green team, led by Mr. Flynn, defeated all comers in winning this year's faculty volleyball tournament!
Thanks to all teachers, faculty , staff and students that supported this event. Special thanks to Mrs. O'Connor for planning the tournament. A good time was had by all!
Proceeds from the $2 tickets are donated to the VA Scholarship Fund and Best Buddies Program.
Parent Visitation Day
Congratulations Martin!
Martin Schreiner represented Van Antwerp Middle School in the recent Capital Region Spelling Bee. Click here for the details from the district website. Nice Job Martin!
Congratulations Math Counts Team
The Van Antwerp team placed 3rd at the Math Counts Capital District Chapter Competition. By placing in the top 3, the VA team has made it into the state competition on March 19th at RPI.
Van Antwerp’s “A” team consists of Alex Wei (captain), Liam McGrinder, Jason Tang and Andrei Akhmetov. Alex came in 4th place overall and top 3 in the countdown round. Andrei placed 13th with Jason right behind him at 14th place, and Liam 3 pts behind Andrei and Jason.
Van Antwerp’s “B” team consists of Vladimir Malcivic (captain), Osama Minhas, Michael Zhou and Angeeras Zamanath.
Congratulations to all of our Math Counts participants on this great accomplishment.
Living Museum/Gallery Walk
Date Change
TThe 63 Team's Living Museum Gallery Walk for the realistic/historical fiction novels will be on Wednesday, March 23rd. This is a date change from the original date of March 24th. Come join Mr. Pletman's English class during one of the following periods...
Period 1- 9:15- 10:00
Period 3- 10:45-11:30
Period 4- 11:30-12:15
Period 7- 1:30-2:15
Parent Survey
Grade 8 Parent Orientation
Thursday, February 3
6:30 P.M.
Good Luck Martin!
Good luck and congratulations to Martin Schreiner as he represents Van Antwerp Middle School at this Wednesday's Regional Spelling Bee. He is one of only 3 participants from our district.
The spelling Bee will take place on Wednesday, January 9 at 5 pm. at Proctor's Theatre.
Alligator Night Is Coming!
Tuesday, February 8, The Niskayuna Middle Schools and NCAP will be hosting "Alligator Night". This is an evening run every few years aimed at providing families valueable information about issues and questions that relate to young adolescents.
Please see the attached letter for detailed information about this evening. The program is also attached.
Alligator Night Letter (PDF)
Program Cover--->Microsoft Word
Alligator Night Program--> Microsoft Word
Students "Make Their Mark" at the
Read-A-Thon!
The “Mrs. Susan Burke Readathon” was held on Friday, January 28th from 6:30-10:30 pm at Van Antwerp. This year, more than 175 6-12 graders participated in this event that included three silent reading blocks, some games that have become readathon traditions, excellent snacks, and time to create food “warm-up” kits that are being donated to SICM and Bethesda House. It was an amazing night of community building.
By the time the evening concluded, more than $1500 had been donated to the Double H Ranch Adaptive Ski Program, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, and The Mrs. Susan Burke Niskayuna Teacher Association Scholarship. Over 200 food warm-up kits had been created and packaged with over 100 books that had been donated for families at SICM also.
Thank you to Mr. Pletman, the 63 team and all of the faculty, staff, students and families that made this night a great success.
EXTRA! EXTRA!
Get your January Edition of the "Insider" here!
Van Antwerp's own school newspaper, "The Insider" has just released their January 2011 issue. Read all about it here!
Click on the photo of the cover for a copy in PDF.
VA Read-A-Thon Rescheduled For January 28.
Congratulations Super Students!
Each quarter Van Antwerp's faculty and staff recognize particular students as "Super Students". Students are recognized for academic achievement, scholarship, citizenship, improvement or for their overall contributions to our building.
Please click here for a list of our "Super Students" for January 2011. Congratulations on a job well done!
Congratulations Geography Bee Participants!
Congratulations to all students participating in this year's Van Antwerp Geography Bee. This year's champion was Soja Moore. Soja will now take a qualifying test for entry into the State Competition. Good luck Soja!
Thanks to our social studies teachers for planning this event.
For full details of the Geography Bee from the district site, click here.
MS Students Dismissed at 12:15 on January 11, 2011
Tuesday, January 11 is a half-day for students grades K-12. Middle school students will be dismissed at 12:15. This is not reflected on the hard copy of the district calendar, but does appear on the month-to-month electronic calendar found here. Faculty and staff will be engaged in professional activities during the afternoon after student dismissal. Buses will be available in the monrning and at 12:15. There will be no school lunches served.
VA Collects Over 1800 Cans OF Green Beans for Equinox !
Van Antwerp Middle School collected over 1800 cans ofgreen beans in support of Equinox's 41st annual Thanksgiving dinner. This helps to provide a meal to the homeless and homebound. We have collected approximately 500 of our goal of 1600 cans of beans.
Thank you to all that supported this endeavor and donated beans!
VA Pasta Dinner Is a Winner!
Van Antwerp Middle School hosted their annual Pasta Dinner on Thursday November 4. Over 450 dinners were served for eat-in or take-out with approximately $3000 in proceeds going to the VA Scholarship Fund.
Students did a great job in their role as servers and bus-people. Thanks to all of the faculty, staff, students and families that helped make this event a sucess.
VA Receives Exxon/Mobil Grant
Van Antwerp recently received a total of $1000 dollars in grants from Exon/Mobil and Red-Kap Sales. Click here for the full story from the Niskayuna CSD website.
Happy Halloween 2010
Friday, November 29 has been Halloween at Van Antwerp Middle School. While this will be a day focused on learning like any other, students are permitted to come to school in an appropriate costume. A list of costume guidelines are listed below. We have two other noteable Halloween events that day. Our VA grade 6 choir will perform a selection of spooky songs for their classmates during advocacy. There will also be a grade 6-8 social and "haunted hallway" open to VA students from 7-9 p.m. See the links below for further details.
Costume Guidelines-----> Word ____(PDF)
Ice-Cream Social
Friday, October 15
Van Antwerp will be holding our annual Ice-Cream Social and Book Fair from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, October 15. Please join us in the cafeteria for some free ice-cream and opportunity to purchase Scholastic books.
Please let us know if you are interested in helping out that night. More information can be found in the flyer below.
Click here for more information.
Parent Portal
The Van Antwerp MS Parent Portal is now open. Families that want access need to have signed up to receive a password on Back-To-School Night or can visit the VA counseling office any weekday between 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. to gain access. Please bring a picture ID when registering.
The portal allows families access to student assignment-by-assignment grades for each subject. The URL or link that you will need for the portal can be found in the "Parent Corner" at the upper right of this site.
Unplanned Fire Drill
Musical Ensemble Rehearsals Begin
on September 20!
Middle School music groups begin morning rehearsals/sessions on September 20. For a full schedule detailing which ensembles or groups meet on a particular day, use the links below.
Music Ensemble Schedule--->(PDF)
Back -To-School Nights
The Van Antwerp Back-To-School Nights will be held in late September and early October for the 2010-2011 school year. See the dates and links below for further information. We look forward to meeting you! Despite what is listed on the district calendar, there is no VA BTS Night on Friday, September 24.
BTS Night Dates 2010-2011 (Click for a copy of the letter)
Wednesday, September 22- Grade 6 Special Area Classes ___Word__ (PDF)
Wednesday, September 29- Grade 6 ___Word___ (PDF)
Wednesday, October 6- Grades 7 and 8 ___Word___ (PDF)
Order Your 2010-2011 Yearbook Now!
Van Antwerp Middle School is now accepting yearbook orders for the 2010-2011 school year. Yearbook orders are placed in the fall in preparation for delivery in late May/early June. Click on the photo to the left or here for a link to order from the Jostens website.
Click here for an order form in (PDF) .
VA SCHOOL STORE
BACK-TO-SCHOOL HOURS
The Van Antwerp MS PTO runs a school store at back-to-school time and during the year in the cafeteria. The store offers supplies matching teachers' and team supply lists at a very reasonable price as a service to families. Please see the attached flyer for information regarding days and hours of operation. We look forward to seeing you there.
The VA School Store is always in need of volunteers. Please consider helping us out!
School Store Flyer and Days/Hours of Operation----> (PDF)
5 VA Students Sing With
NYSSMA "All State" Chorus
Five of Van Antwerp's students were selected for the All State Middle School chorus. This is a great honor in that the chorus is made up of middle school students from around the state.
They gave a wonderful performance at noon at The Albany Crowne Plaza, on Sunday, August 8.
Congratulations to...
- Madison Noel
- Teddy Arcidiacono
- Lauren Litz
- Madison Schmitt
- Connor Gordon.
Grade 6 Orientation
Save the Date!
Information regarding this year's Grade 6 Orientation will be coming home with our summer mailing during the week of August 15.
The orientation is an opportunity for students to work with their W.E.B. leader and school counselor, see the building, find their homeroom and to get a sense of Van Antwerp before the first day of school.
Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony
Wednesday, June 23
6:30 p.m.
This year's Moving Up Ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, June 23 from 6:30 to approximately 7:30 p.m. The Moving Up Dance for grade 8 students immediately follows. Please use the link below to see the letter sent home with students on Tuesday, June 15. This is our opportunity to honor our 8th grade students as they move on to the high school. We look forward to seeing you there!
Moving Up Letter Sent Home With Students__ Word___ (PDF)
MIddle Ground Artists and Authors Honored
On Friday, June 11, Van Antwerp students that were published in this year's Middle Ground were honored with an ice-cream party and early copy of the award-winning, annual literary and art magazine. There parents were also there to participate in the recognition.
Middle Ground features some of the more noteable works of middle school art and literaure from the 2009-10 school year.
Student work includes fiction, non-fiction, poetry, painting, sculpture and other forms of visual and literary art. Congratulations to our student authors and artists. Special thanks to Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Cotugno-Surin for putting this publication together.
Click here for a copy of the 2009-10 Middle Ground Literary & Art Magazine(PDF)
VA Drama Club To Perform
Thursday and Friday
June 10 and 11
On Thursday and Friday, June 10 and 11, the VA Drama Club will be performing a production of Mark Twain's, "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court." Tickets can be purchased at the door for $5. The performance will be held in the Van Antwerp MS auditorium.
This promises to be a great show. Thank you to our student actors, stage crew, and to our drama advisors, Ms. Hughes and Ms Tambasco for all of their hard work.
Playbill for Connecticut Yankee (PDF)
Grade 7 Students Learn About Animal Adaptation at the Bronx Zoo!
At the Bronx Zoo, on May 21st, the 7th grade students were tasked with observing the animals with a “scientist’s eye”. They were to write down specific observations that would help them, in the classroom the following school day, describe and detail the amazing, and diverse, adaptations that different species have. Each adaptation an animal has is essential to the animals’ survival in their different environments. Within the essay the students described 5 different adaptations, in detail, including a description of how each adaptation helps the animal survive in its given environment. These adaptations could have been all from 1 animal or from 5 different animals. This is a culminating activity for the year-long study of the concept of adaptations and allows each student to fully express their understandings.
The Insider Year in Review
Is Out!
The Insider, Van Antwerp's very own school newspaper has been released. It includes stories reviewing the VA 2009-10 school year.
Click here for a copy in PDF---->The Insider
VA PTO
LT's
Fundraiser
Van Antwerp Week at LT's Grill ~ Week of May 23 - May 30th.
We loved our LT's BBQ at VA so much that now LT is going to support VA PTO by donating 10% of your bill to VA PTO from 5/23-5/30
Patrons must make a reservation in order for VA to get proceeds.
Call LT's Grill 518-374-7455 and mention you're coming in for VA Fundraising week.
Arrive for your reservation and remember to mention VA Week @ LT's
The VA PTO will automatically get 10% of your bill donated by LT's.
YOU DON'T PAY EXTRA.
Eat a great meal out and help the VA PTO support our students and programs!
Thanks for supporting the Van Antwerp PTO
PTO Meeting for May Rescheduled
Budget Vote
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
All residents of the Niskayuna Central School District are encouraged to participate in the scool budget vote on May 18 at Niskayuna High School. Polls are open from 7a.m.-9 p.m., allowing you to vote before or after work. You can register to vote on site if necessary. There is no need to be pre-registered. We really need you to come out and cast a ballot to weigh in on the proposed budget. For additional information, please see the attached documents sent home with VA students on Monday, May 17.
Budget letter from Mr. Rakoczy ----> Word ___(PDF)
Budget information sheet------> _(PDF)
PTO Mother's Day Plant Sale
May 6 & 7, 2010
On Thursday, May 6 and Friday, May 7, the PTO will be holding a Mother's Day Plant Sale at Van Antwerp Middle School. This is an opportunity for students to purchase a potted annual for their mother in advance of Mother's Day weekend. Flyers were sent home with students during the week. The price of the potted plant is $5.
Click here to see the flyer sent home with students.
Science Bowl Team Places at Nationals
Congratulations to the Van Antwerp Middle School Science Bowl team for placing at Nationals over the weekend of May 1. The team finished tied for 7th in a field of 37 middle schools, earning $1000 for the middle school science department. The team consists of...
Mrs. Soron-Coach
Cecilia Holodak
Aiden Wolfe
Martin Schreiner
Alex Young
Andrew Stewart
Further details to follow...
May Intramural Calendar
Intramural athletics are offered at Van Antwerp before and/or after school on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Intramurals are meant to be enjoyed by any student interested on any given day. Use the links below for a full calendar of activities.
PTO Meeting Change
VA Chamber Strings Play
the Plaza.
Congratulations to Mrs. McClennan and the VA Chamber Strings on their performance at the Empire State Plaza on March 19.
Each year, local musicians are invited to play the South Concourse of the Plaza in March to help celebrate Music in Our Schools Month. Performances are conducted at noontime to entertain downtown workers on their lunch break.
Click here for a full schedule of performances scheduled at the Plaza for March.
Join Us For A Community Forum!
“THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES: UNCOVER…DISCOVER…EMPOWER”
Sponsored by the Niskayuna Community Coalition
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Niskayuna High School Auditorium
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 PM
The program includes a DWI exhibit and individual sessions related to teen/adolescent health and wellness.
Math Counts Team Has a Strong Showing in the State Competition
On Saturday March 13, VA's MathCounts team (Cecilia Holodak, captain, Rajesh Bollapragada, Martin Schreiner, Alex Wei, and Andrey Akhmetov) competed at the MathCounts state competition at RPI. The team did very well, placing 15th out of 52 teams. Team captain Cecilia Holodak placed 17th in the state as an individual, and team member Martin Schreiner also placed in the top 20%.
Congratulations to our Math Counts team!
Congratulations Connor Chapman!
Congratulations to 3x Van Antwerp Geography Bee Champion Connor Chapman. 
He recently qualified to compete in the State Geography Bee held on April 9 at the NYS Museum.
Good luck Connor!
Mr. McFerran Honored as a
SEFCU "Top Teacher"
On February 24, WNYT honored VA school counselor Kevin McFerran as a SEFCU "Top Teacher". To see Elaine Houston's feature on Mr. McFerran, click on the photo to the right.
Congratulations to Mr. McFerran and thank you for your dedication and ongoing efforts on behalf of students.
Parent Visitation Day
Tuesday, March 16
Tuesday, March 16, 2010 is Parent Visitation Day at Van Antwerp Middle School. This is an opportunity for parents to shadow their children during the school day and to observe their learning as it happens. Please see the two linked files below for further information. They will be sent home with students during the week of March 1. Feel free to give us a call at school if you have any questions.
Parent Visitation Day Announcement and Guidelines----> (PDF) ___Word
Van Antwerp Period-By-Period Schedule-----> (PDF) ___Word
Hoops-For-Haiti
Is A Hit!
On Wednesday, Van Antwerp MS hosted "Hoops-For-Haiit". The faculty white and red teams squared off with proceeds from the game going to benefit the Red Cross.
The game drew an after-school crowd of approximately 200 students and generated $700 for the recovery effort in Haiti. Thanks to all members of our school community that supported this event! A good time was had by all!
School Physicals
Monday, February 8
8a.m.
Middle Ground 2008-9 Is Here!
MiddleGround, the Niskayuna Middle School Literary and Art magazine has come out this week! It features noteable works of literature and art from our middle school students. The publication has been recognized by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) with a rank of "excellent" over the past several years.
Student having their work included in MiddleGround will be recognized in school. We would also like to recognize Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. CS and all of the teachers that worked on this outstading compilation.
Click here for a copy of Middle Ground in (PDF)
Click here for a copy of the front and back covers in (PDF)
Four Ways To Support Our School and Community
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During the month of October, Van Antwerp MS will be collecting donations of new or used coats to be donated to children in Schenectady County. Used coats and jackets are dry cleaned by Kem Cleaners before being distributed to children in need. There will a drop box at each entrance to VA. Donations will also be accepted in the Main Office. |
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Mrs. Flynn and her students collect General Mills Boxtops. The emblem pictured to the left can be found on a variety of General Mills products. Each is worth 10 cents to our school. Box Top donations can be dropped off in the VA Main Office. Click here or on the Box Top logo for more information. |
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The Target "Take Charge of Education" program allows families with a REDcard to designate VA as a beneficiary school. All purchases with the card will send a small monetary donation to VA. Funds are used to directly support students and programming . Click here or on the Target logo for additional information. |
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Price Chopper sponsors a program that allows families to register their Advantage Cards to credit our school with bonus points each time you make a purchase. The accumulated bonus points can then be used to acquire supplies and equipment in support of school programming. Click here or on the Tools for Schools logo for additional information. |
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