Oneida City School District

05/11/2026

Congratulations to Mrs. Sawner, an incredible OCSD Geometry teacher, on being nominated for the Kindness Express!

Her nominator shared that Mrs. Sawner brightens each day with a simple “Hello” or “Good morning,” and that her warm smile and positive attitude never go unnoticed. No matter what challenges the day may bring, she continues to create a welcoming and encouraging environment for everyone around her.

Thank you, Mrs. Sawner, for leading with kindness, setting a wonderful example for our students, and making our school community a brighter place each day!

05/11/2026

Where Are They Now?

Meet Katie Mahar, a proud OCSD alumna from the Class of 2018.

One of Katie’s favorite memories from her time at OCSD was spending time in film class with Mrs. Laemmermann, an experience that left a lasting impact on her high school years.

After graduation, Katie attended University at Buffalo, where she studied Psychology and Criminology.

Today, Katie serves as a Career Coach for the Governor’s Child Poverty Reduction Initiative, which plays an integral part in developing and implementing program policies and procedures while delivering workforce development strategies.

To future graduates, Katie offers this advice: "Chase your dreams, even when they change. Growth often leads you exactly where you’re meant to be, and there is no timeline on success. Work hard, give yourself grace, and don’t forget to live your life."

05/07/2026

Please take a moment to review this important message from District Superintendent Matt Carpenter regarding the incidents that occurred this week at Oneida City School District’s OSMS.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns you can send us a direct message, call the District Office, or email us. Thank you!

05/07/2026

Thank You, Teachers!

This week, we celebrate the incredible educators who inspire, support, and shape the future of our students every single day. 🍎✨

During Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to thank all of our amazing teachers for their dedication, compassion, patience, and hard work. From the lessons taught in the classroom to the encouragement and care shown each day, your impact reaches far beyond school walls.

Thank you for everything you do for our students, schools, and community. We appreciate you today and every day! ❤️

05/06/2026

Today during rainy-day indoor recess, Willard Prior’s School Resource Officer, Mr. Greer, brought in a plasma globe to share with students. He visited classrooms to demonstrate how it works, giving kids a hands-on look at concepts like electricity and energy!

Thank you, Mr. Greer, for turning a rainy day into a fun learning opportunity!

05/05/2026

Congratulations to our Oneida Athletes of the Week!

A big shoutout to Anden Mertens (Tennis) and Addison Ruddy (Track) for being recognized this week! Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to your teams continue to set the standard for excellence across Oneida athletics.

05/05/2026

A night to remember

Students celebrated an unforgettable evening at prom, held at Twin Ponds Country Club in New York Mills. Surrounded by friends, music, and plenty of memorable moments, the night was a true highlight of the school year.

Congratulations to this year’s Prom Court:
Queen: Emma M.
King: Gabriel B.
Court members: Madelyn B., Leah P., Taydem M., Maya W., Andy L., Sam G., Brayden H., and Tanner Y.

From the excitement of the crowning to the joy shared on the dance floor, prom was a wonderful celebration!

05/04/2026

MOCK DWI Presentation at OHS

Oneida High School students recently took part in a Mock DWI Crash Demonstration, held in the weeks leading up to prom and graduation. The program serves as a powerful reminder of the real-life consequences that can result from impaired or distracted driving.

Through this hands-on experience, students observed a simulated crash scene and the coordinated response from emergency personnel. From first responders providing medical attention to law enforcement managing the scene, the demonstration highlighted both the immediate impact of a crash and the emotional toll it takes on everyone involved.

While the scenario was staged, the message was clear: the choices made behind the wheel matter. As students look ahead to celebrating major milestones, the District encourages all students to prioritize safety—never driving under the influence, staying focused on the road, wearing seatbelts, and looking out for one another.

The Oneida City School District is grateful to the many community partners who made this experience possible. Their time, expertise, and commitment helped bring an important lesson to life for our students.

Thank you to:

Oneida City Police Department
Police Department Chaplains Dr. Jack Fucci and Fr. Chris Ballard
Oneida Fire Department
Vineall Ambulance Services
Mercy Flight
Ironside Funeral Home
Madison County District Attorney’s Office
Rocker’s Automotive Rescue
Oneida High School Drama Club and faculty

We hope this experience resonates with students and encourages safe, responsible decision-making—not just during this celebratory season, but every day.

📸 Maya Walts

05/04/2026

YOU CAN STILL REGISTER! Please share!

Enroll in Pre-K or Kindergarten Today!

Oneida City School District is now preparing for the 2026–2027 school year, and we’re excited to welcome our newest learners!

Pre-K: Children must be 4 years old on or before December 1, 2026
Kindergarten: Children must be 5 years old on or before December 1, 2026

Families will need:
- Proof of residency
- Proof of age (birth certificate)

Online registration opens February 16, 2026

In-person registration at Willard Prior Elementary:
March 18 | 4:00–6:00 PM
March 20 | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Questions? Contact the Registration Office at 315-361-6072

Scan the QR code or visit Arbiter for more information.

Please note: Students currently enrolled in the OCSD Pre-K program during the 2025–2026 school year do not need to re-register for Kindergarten.

We can’t wait to welcome your child to Oneida!

05/04/2026

OSMS Students Build Hockey Skills in PE

Middle school students in Mr. Collins’ physical education class learned the fundamentals of hockey through a structured, skill-building approach. Students began by practicing proper use of hockey sticks and developing control while working with a partner to pass the ball in a stationary position. As their confidence and coordination improved, they progressed to passing while in motion, reinforcing both individual technique and teamwork.

05/04/2026

Meet Jeremy Yagoda, OCSD alumnus, Class of 2019.

Jeremy has many fond memories from his time at OCSD and shared that it’s difficult to pinpoint just one. What stands out most to him is how much his teachers—from kindergarten through senior year—genuinely cared about their students. He recalls how they consistently checked in and made every effort to support him and his peers in any way they could, creating an environment where he always felt encouraged and supported.

He also remembers the strong sense of unity within the student body. Whether coming together to support one another during difficult times, such as the loss of a classmate, or standing up for causes at both the local and national level, Jeremy reflects on a student community that was engaged, compassionate, and ready to take action.

Following his graduation from high school, Jeremy attended UNC Charlotte, where he earned a degree in Political Science with a minor in Legal Studies in 2023. He returned the following year to complete a second degree in Criminal Justice, graduating in 2024. He is currently in his first year (1L) at Elon University School of Law.

After graduating from UNC Charlotte in 2023, Jeremy joined the U.S. Peace Corps and served in Rwanda as an education volunteer for nearly two years, living independently in a rural village. During his service, he worked as a local school teacher and led impactful community initiatives, including the construction of a multi-use sports court and the facilitation of a village forum. Notably, he also spearheaded a successful effort to eliminate corporal punishment at the school where he taught.

Upon returning to the United States, Jeremy began working as a Board and Grants Specialist for the Foundation For The Carolinas, one of the five largest nonprofit community foundations in the country, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals across North and South Carolina.

After completing law school, Jeremy plans to pursue a career as a prosecutor, with the long-term goal of running for public office.

To future graduates, Jeremy offers this valuable advice: "Set long-term goals and make a real plan to reach them. It can feel overwhelming to decide what you want, especially when you’re young or unsure, but choosing a direction is one of the most important things you can do. Your life will reflect the choices you make and the risks you’re willing to take.

Don’t sell yourself short. Nothing is out of reach if you’re willing to work hard and stay consistent. If you’ve been thinking about moving somewhere new, do it. If you’re unhappy in your job, quit it. If there’s a hobby or interest you’ve always wanted to try, start it. Apply for the job even if you’re not sure you’ll get it. You lose nothing by trying.

There will always be reasons not to do something. It’s easy to stay comfortable. Instead, focus on the reasons you should take the chance. Life rarely feels perfectly certain before you act. Life always has a way of working itself out."