S.M. A. R. T. (Students Making A Responsible Tomorrow) emphasizes life skills, leadership, and community connection

Colonie Central High School is preparing the return of its innovative freshman summer orientation program, S.M.A.R.T. — Students Making A Responsible Tomorrow — designed to welcome the Class of 2029 with hands-on learning, essential life skills, and a strong sense of community from day one.

Scheduled for the week of August 18–22, this year’s SMART program will help incoming freshmen make a smooth and confident transition into high school life. The sessions will blend traditional orientation content with meaningful experiences that support students’ academic, social, and emotional development.

“Our goal is to help students start strong,” said Stephanie Luce, CCHS associate principal. “The SMART program will introduce students to key skills they’ll need in high school and also connect them to our staff, our school culture, and one another.”

Throughout the week, students will participate in interactive sessions focused on:

• Navigating the Colonie Central High School campus
• Learning effective communication strategies for academic success
• Developing health and wellness habits
• Building relationships, conflict resolution, and problem-solving strategies
• Understanding and embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Meeting your grade-level principal, faculty, and support staff

A key component of the program will be its continued emphasis on community service and civic readiness. In alignment with South Colonie’s commitment to developing well-rounded, engaged citizens, the SMART program will highlight the importance of giving back. Students will be encouraged to begin working toward the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness, a graduation distinction that honors meaningful community involvement.

The week will culminate in a new partnership with the high school’s ICARE Club, as students take part in a service initiative supporting the Albany Housing Coalition. This meaningful opportunity will introduce freshmen to the mission of ICARE and encourage them to get involved from the very start of their high school journey, demonstrating what it means to be responsible, engaged members of Colonie.

The first official day of school is Thursday, September 4, and thanks to SMART, the newest members of the Colonie Wolf Pack will be ready to hit the ground running.