Congratulations to Amsterdam High School students Haley Salisbury, Ivy Dulysz and Lauren Adair, and high school PEP Grant Lead teacher and athletic Coach Mrs. Amy Waddell for being honored with YMCA Outstanding Student & Educator Awards at a recent ceremony.

Each year the Schenectady/Glenville/Duanesburg YMCA holds a Student & Educator Awards breakfast to honor local high school students and educators for their dedication, contribution, and service to their school and community.

The Outstanding Student Awards are presented to students who share and demonstrate the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, on a daily basis–not only with their peers at school but with members of their communities.

Outstanding Educators are honored for their effectiveness and success working with students, their impact on community development and involvement, and promoting leadership qualities.

 Our Outstanding Students & Educator

Lauren Adair currently serves as president of Club Operation Smile, which hosts flower sales every year. All proceeds benefits children who are in need of cleft palate surgery. Lauren’s involvement in this club has helped her grow as a leader and she is moved by its ability to change lives and create happiness for others in need.

Since 2016, Ivy Dulysz has dedicated herself to volunteering with special education students. Every day, including the extended summer program, Ivy assists children off school buses, helps with lunch prep, and facilitates lessons for music class. Her experience volunteering with these students,  has played a role in her future plans which include pursuing a career as a music therapist after graduation, with a long-term goal of obtaining a master’s in special education.

Haley Salisbury was given the opportunity to volunteer at her community’s polling site on Election Day. As a volunteer clerk, Haley taught others how to fill out a ballot, and helped them understand the voting process and its importance.

Amy Waddell, Amsterdam High School’s PEP Grant Leader teacher and athletic coach, exemplifies the YMCA’s core values through her role as RamFit Advisor. RamFit is a Student Health Advisory Committee developed by Amy to help students participate in a variety of initiatives, including medical mission work and planing school gardens. In addition to playing a vital role in the School Climate Committee, Amy also worked closely with her peers on the New York State School Comprehensive Education Plan and revamping of physical education curriculum expectations.