Wynantskill UFSD

High School Selection Information

Dear Parents of 8th Grade Students,

The final year at Gardner Dickinson can be very busy with planning for graduation, the 8th grade trip to Washington D.C., and the high school selection process.

In order to help you and your child make the most informed decision, there are several opportunities to learn about the area high schools. In the fall we participated in a program at Tech Valley High School (your child also participated in a spring session during seventh grade). In January we hold our High School Fair, and in late winter the students will have the opportunity to visit one high school during the school day. Prior to the fair, I will be working with your child during the day to develop questions, and assist them developing skills to make an informed decision.

This year, our High School Fair will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 15 from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in our cafeteria. Students will have an opportunity to meet with representatives from each of the high schools in order to learn about course offerings and extra-curricular activities. Families are more than welcome to attend, but this is not a requirement. The schools participating in the Fair are Averill Park, Brittonkill, Columbia, Troy and Tech Valley. Please be aware that residents of the North Greenbush Common school district may select from Averill Park, Columbia and Troy High School.

In addition to our fair, each of the schools offers an open house for students and families entering ninth grade. These programs are typically presented by the school principal with assistance from the counselors and teachers. This is a good opportunity to visit the school and ask any questions you may have.

Tech Valley High School requires that students who are interested in their program attend a parent/student information night at their school. The next session will be held on Thursday, Jan. 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Tech Valley High School. The other open houses are listed below.

  • Columbia High School – Tuesday, Jan. 15 at 6:00 p.m.
  • Averill Park High School – Thursday, Jan. 31 6:30 p.m.
  • Tamarac (Brittonkill) High School – Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 6:00 p.m.
  • Troy High School – Thursday, Mar. 7 at 6:00 p.m.

I encourage families to learn about all of the schools in order to make a very well informed decision. I will be asking for your selection no later than Friday, Mar. 15. Students who select Tech Valley High School will need to let me know by Friday, Feb. 15. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have about this process.

Sincerely,

Amy Murphy
School Counselor

Posted in District, Middle School.