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2025 Synergy Page

City & School Synergy Program

A collaboration between the City of Fulton, NY and the Fulton City School District

Logo for City & School Synergy: A United Future, featuring a handshake and a student.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

The City and School Synergy Program empowers students to become lifelong community leaders by revitalizing Fulton's public spaces. Through hands-on projects, students take ownership, transforming neglected areas into vibrant hubs.

Now in its third year, the program improves social determinants of health for all residents. To date, over 500 students have completed major park projects. Our five-year plan aims to engage over 1,500 students across six groups. They'll pinpoint local issues, devise solutions and collaborate with city officials to create meaningful change. This initiative builds the habits of active citizenship, making Fulton an even better place to live.

It's about giving young people the tools and platform to make a real difference, building a sense of belonging and shared responsibility that will last a lifetime.

Questions? Click to contact program coordinators.Looking to donate? Click here!

Goals for 2025-2026

  • Continue North Bay Revitalization with Class of 2028
  • Continue Canal Park Revitalization with Class of 2029
  • Create new opportunity for the Class of 2030
  • The City and School Synergy program is recognized as a sustainable model for youth civic engagement and a model program for NYS Portrait of a Graduate.

 

PROGRAM SPONSORS

  • Richard S. Shineman Foundation
  • Brookfield Renewable
  • Novelis
  • Fulton Block Builders
  • Sunrise Rotary Club
  • Noon Rotary Club
  • Fulton Lions Club
  • AmeriCu Federal Credit Union
  • Fulton Savings Bank
  • B & T Sportshop

“(Synergy) is affording students a chance to serve as role models for future students. Building on what they have achieved is creating a lasting bond between our students and the greater Fulton Community...”

- Fulton Mayor Jim Rice

A group of people in bright shirts work together planting a tree.

STAKEHOLDERS

  • STUDENTS: As the direct participants and primary beneficiaries, students are at the core of the program. Their engagement, learning, and long-term civic habits are the ultimate measure of the program's success.
  • THE SCHOOL DISTRICT: The district's support is essential for the program's existence and sustainability. They provide the classroom structure, access to student cohorts, teacher support, and integration into the curriculum. Without their commitment, the program cannot operate.
  • THE CITY OF FULTON: The city is a critical partner, providing the physical spaces for the projects (North Bay Campground, Canal Landing), offering guidance on urban planning, and granting the necessary permissions. The success of the projects hinges on their collaboration and support.
  • COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND RESIDENTS: This group is the ultimate end-user and beneficiary of the program's efforts. Their feedback and support are vital for identifying needs, ensuring projects are relevant, and validating the positive impact of the students' work.
  • LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS: Businesses in or near the adopted areas may be affected by the projects. They could also be potential partners, offering mentorship, materials, or financial support.

Three smiling women wearing matching neon green shirts pose for a photo.

City & School Synergy Committee

A large group of people wearing green shirts gather on a grassy lawn.

  • Denise Rodriguez: Instructional Specialist, Fulton City School District
  • Karen Noel: Instructional Specialist, Fulton City School District
  • Kelly Stadtmiller: Instructional Specialist, Fulton City School District
  • Ami LaDuc: Instructional Specialist, Fulton City School District
  • Renee Hendrickson: Executive Director of Humanities
  • Jeffrey Hendrickson: Executive Director of STEAM
  • Doug Lawerence: Superintendent of Fulton City School District
  • Teresa Burgdorf: Library Media Specialist, Fulton Junior High
  • Tracy Yacavone: Social Studies Teacher, Department Facilitator
  • Allyson DeStevens: Science Teacher, Department Facilitator
  • Shawn Nagel: Technology Teacher, Fulton Junior High
  • Danielle Florio: English Department Chair
  • Dan Mainville: Science Department Chair
  • Nathan Fasulo: Social Studies Department Chair
  • Brittney Jarred: Community Member
  • Jim Farfaglia: Fulton Garden Club President, Local Author
  • Tim Carroll: Fulton Garden Club, Local Author
  • James Rice: Mayor of Fulton
  • Fallon Hutchinson: FCSD Board of Education
  • Greg Bailey: Former Technology Teacher, Community Member
  • Alex Richmond: Public Relations, CITI BOCES
  • Keith Cuny: Principal, Fulton Junior High