Dozens of South Colonie students attended the 2026  Northeastern Community Action Partnership Youth Summit this week, an event focused on educating and empowering young people to make healthy choices and bring what they learned at the summit back to their peers. 

The summit brought together students and community leaders from across northeastern New York to learn about the dangers of underage drinking and drug use. Through interactive sessions and discussions with local prevention, treatment, and recovery agencies, students gained valuable insight into how substance use can impact individuals, families, and communities.

“Opportunities like the Youth Summit provide our students with information and strategies to engage others in their community in meaningful conversations about real challenges facing young people today,” said Associate Principal Tess McCarthy. “We are proud of our students for representing South Colonie and for their willingness to learn, lead, and support a healthier community.”

High school students and middle school students attended the summit and left with new knowledge and tools to help promote safe and healthy lifestyles among their peers.