Monday, June 16th, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School welcomed Dr. Jason McCarthy from the Masonic Medical Research Institute as a guest speaker. Dr. McCarthy spoke with our 7th-grade students about careers in science, the importance of innovation, and the power of curiosity in driving discovery.

His journey and achievements inspire and light the path for our future scientists, innovators, and changemakers. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from his experience and passion for scientific advancement.

Monday, June 16th, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Elementary School was honored to welcome Mr. Raymond Durso, CEO of The Genesis Group, as a guest speaker for our 2nd-grade scholars.

Mr. Durso delivered a powerful and inspiring message focused on identity, confidence, and the importance of being true to yourself. His engaging talk encouraged students to embrace who they are, believe in themselves, and take pride in their unique qualities.

We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Durso for taking the time to visit and share such meaningful insights. His words left a lasting impact on our young scholars and reminded us of the value of authenticity and self-belief.

Thank you, Mr. Durso, for inspiring the minds and hearts of our future leaders!

Friday, May 30th, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School hosted the Honorable Bernadette T. Clark, Supreme Court Justice, as a special guest speaker.

Justice Clark shared her inspiring journey through the legal profession, highlighting the many challenges she faced. In 2000, she made history as the first female judge in Oneida County. Five years later, she broke another barrier by becoming the first female Supreme Court Justice in New York’s Fifth Judicial District.

Her powerful message of resilience, perseverance, and leadership reminded students that no obstacle is too large when you lead with integrity and purpose. We are grateful to Justice Clark for taking the time to speak with our scholars and for inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Thursday, June 26th, 2025: The halls of Utica Academy of Science Elementary were filled with excitement and pride as our youngest scholars officially graduated from kindergarten! This milestone marks the end of a year filled with learning, laughter, and incredible growth.

Throughout the year, our kindergarteners worked hard, made new friends, and built the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Their determination and joy were on full display during the graduation celebration, and we couldn’t be prouder of each one of them.

Congratulations to the Atoms, you did it! We can’t wait to see all the fantastic things you'll accomplish in first grade.

Wednesday, June 18th, 2025: We are proud to celebrate our Utica Academy of Science High School students who participated in the 2025 Genius Olympiad, an international competition focused on environmental issues and global collaboration.

Hosted at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and organized by Terra Science and Education, the Genius Olympiad brings together students from more than 60 countries to present innovative projects and solutions that address some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges. The competition also includes cultural celebrations, such as the International Fair, where students share traditions and connect with peers worldwide.

Although our students did not take home any awards this year, their participation alone is a tremendous achievement—and a testament to their curiosity, creativity, and commitment to making a difference.

We applaud our Atoms for their dedication and global spirit. You represented UAS and the SANY community with pride!

Thursday, June 5th, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School celebrated one of its most cherished traditions—the annual Senior/Kindergarten Walk. This meaningful event honors the end of the journey for graduating seniors and the bright beginnings of our youngest learners.

Seniors took their final walk through the school halls, hand-in-hand with Kindergarten students. As they made their way through the building, younger scholars lined the hallways, proudly holding signs, offering high-fives, and cheering on the Class of 2025.

The walk was a powerful reminder of how far our seniors have come and how bright the future is for all UAS Atoms.

Saturday, May 31st, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School students recently took their learning to new heights at the Museum of Science & Technology's annual CNY Rocket Team Challenge. Seven teams proudly represented UASCS in this exciting STEM-based competition, which challenged students to design, build, and launch their model rockets.

The event provided a hands-on opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering problems. As part of the challenge, students explored essential STEM concepts such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and Newton’s laws of motion. Beyond the science, they also strengthened their teamwork, communication, and collaborative problem-solving skills.

The CNY Rocket Challenge is more than just a launch; it celebrates future engineers and scientists. UAS looks forward to returning next year with even more sky-high innovation.

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Junior-Senior High School was proud to support the 2025 Inaugural Live United Honoree Recognition Breakfast, hosted by United Way of the Mohawk Valley.

Held at Five Points Public House in Utica, this inspiring event brought together community members, leaders, and organizations to celebrate those making a meaningful impact across our region. From elected officials to grassroots heroes, the honorees exemplified what it truly means to Live United, working together to build stronger, more connected communities. UAS was honored to stand among such passionate and dedicated changemakers.

We sincerely thank United Way MV for hosting a powerful morning of recognition, collaboration, and inspiration. Events like these serve as a reminder of the impact we can achieve when we come together with a shared mission to serve and uplift our community.

Friday, May 2nd, 2025: Utica Academy of Science Elementary School honored our outstanding K–2 Students of the Month with a special assembly focused on empathy.

Throughout the month, UAS Atoms have been learning to put themselves in others' shoes and show kindness and care for others, and their efforts have truly shone.

We are incredibly proud of these young role models who remind us that even the smallest hearts can make the most significant impact.

Friday, May 2nd, 2025: Utica Academy of Science proudly celebrates Ms. Dundar, who was recently honored with an Educator of Distinction Award from the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS)! 

This prestigious recognition reflects the dedication, care, and excellence Ms. Dundar brings to her students. What makes it even more special is that she was nominated by one of her students, Madison Przybyla, a testament to her positive impact in the classroom and beyond. 

Ms. Dundar is grateful for the support from the UAS community and looks forward to continuing her work helping students grow, thrive, and achieve success.

Thank you, Ms. Dundar, for being a shining example of what excellent teaching looks like!