POTSDAM — Potsdam Central School has undergone some major changes as the district underwent major renovations and has changed its branding, logo and signage.

“Significant upgrades have been made, and many are nearing completion, enhancing our schools’ learning environment and infrastructure,” said Superintendent Jerry Griffin.

One improvement that should prove popular with high school students and staff when they return Sept. 5, is the addition of air conditioning units in nearly all instructional classrooms.

“We bought portable AC units for most instructional spaces,” he said. “We feel that legislation will probably be headed our way to dictate a maximum classroom temperature; at least that’s what the governor talked about this past spring.”

He said the units will provide some level of comfort, but won’t make the rooms iceboxes. Just enough to make rooms comfortable during those hot weeks in early September, May, and June.

“We want to be prepared,” he said.

New Logo Unveiled

Last year, district officials embarked on a comprehensive “defining our brand” process, culminating in selecting the Varsity P as the centerpiece of the district’s identity, Griffin said.

“This symbol embodies our school’s spirit and pride, and we’re excited to see it become a unifying emblem across our community,” he said.

Additionally, while Stoner Steve will still be part of district branding, a higher-resolution version will be available soon. Griffin said the change ensures Stoner Steve continues representing PCS in the best possible way.

You may notice the “P” on new flags surrounding the high school, and new signage will soon be installed along Route 11 in front of A.A .Kingston Middle and Lawrence Avenue Elementary schools.

“We have also ordered new welcome mats to dress up our entryways for each entrance,” Griffin added.

Capital Project Progress

I am pleased to provide an update on the progress of our capital project work across the district.. Below is a breakdown of the completed or near-completion work, categorized by each building.

Work in the high school included mechanical upgrades, panel replacement, updates of parking lot fixtures, boiler plan renovations, and BOCES special education room updates.

The mechanical systems have undergone substantial upgrades to improve overall efficiency and comfort within the school, the super said. Also, electrical panels have been replaced to ensure safety and reliability.

“New lighting fixtures have been installed in the parking lot, improving visibility and security,” Griffin said.

New rooftop units have been installed at the cafeteria and multi-purpose room to help control the climate in those areas.

Griffin said the boiler plant has been renovated to increase energy efficiency and provide reliable heating throughout the building.

BOCES special education rooms have been upgraded to meet students’ needs better.

At the middle school, renovations have been completed in House 1, and various rooms have been upgraded to provide a more conducive learning environment.

Additionally, the administrative, counselors’, and nurses’ offices have been upgraded to better serve our staff and students.

“New tiling has been installed in the central corridor, giving the area a fresh, modern look,” Griffin said.

Mechanical systems have been upgraded to improve overall functionality and efficiency.

Lastly, in the elementary school, some classrooms received new windows and mechanical upgrades, which improve energy efficiency and comfort, Griffin said.

The BOCES office has also seen mechanical upgrades to enhance operational efficiency.

The super said corridors have been upgraded with new finishes, making them more welcoming and easier to maintain.

The bus loop, near third and fourth grade classrooms, have been reconfigured and expanded to improve traffic flow and safety.

New lights have been installed in the parking lot, increasing safety and visibility.

“The corridor by the gymnasium now features new tile, improving its aesthetic and functionality,” Griffin said.

Drainage and site improvements have been completed to prevent water-related issues and improve overall site conditions.

New lighting was installed at the main entrance canopy, enhancing visibility and safety .

New data cabling has been installed to support increased digital learning needs.

Trench drains near the bus garage have been installed to manage water runoff effectively. The mechanic’s bay has received new windows and doors.

Windows in the Annex have been upgraded, providing better insulation and security.

“These improvements represent our ongoing commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and conducive learning environment for our students and staff. Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this construction period. We look forward to seeing these upgrades’ positive impact on our school community.

Potsdam school welcomes 14 new instructional staff members. Angela Delisle joins the high school to teach special education and Nicole White has been hired to teach HS English.

At Lawrence Avenue Elementary, Margaret Doty will teach special education, Jacqueline Butler was hired for pre-K; Moriah Warren was hired as a counselor; Mallorie Murphy will work as an occupational therapist; Katie Romeo will teach special education; Jamellah Lahens is a new kindergarten teacher and Danielle Grant will teach at the fourth grade level.

Middle school staff include math teacher Cassandra Jock; Casey Ostler, math; Erin Hunt, fifth grade; Rachelle McHenry, sixth grade and Megan Burke, academic interventionist.

 Potsdam Central School participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or Provision 2 in a non-base year.

All children in the school will receive meals and milk at no charge, regardless of household income.

PHS will continue to limit phone use by students during the school day in favor of face to face interactions that promote positive relationships and enhance learning.

As was the practice last year, every classroom will have a designated spot for students to store phones during class time.   

Enrollment, which is about 1367 students, is up about 60-70 students to begin the year.