The Husky Huddle

The best high school basketball stories aren’t always about the final score, they’re about what a team becomes when every possession feels like a test. We’re joined by Olean seniors Adrian Bohdanowycz and Joe Mest for a real look at a season shaped by tight games, tough practices, and a playoff run that proved how far belief and execution can carry you. If you love varsity basketball, small-town gyms, and the mental side of competition, this conversation hits home.We dig into the moments that defined their year: early close losses that taught late-game composure, senior leadership that kept the group steady, and the specific practice intensity that separates good teams from great ones. Adrian shares his focus on becoming a threat to pass and score, while Joe explains why “get better every day” becomes a standard you either live up to or you don’t. They also talk about team chemistry, the games where the group truly clicked, and how a smaller roster can become tighter and tougher.The playoff run brings it all into focus, including the reminder that seeding doesn’t win games, execution does. We talk about preparing for a sectional final against a team you already know, playing for a community that shows up in force, and handling a loss with pride when the opponent simply shoots at an unreal level. Adrian and Joe reflect on going from nervous freshmen to confident seniors, the life lessons coaches teach beyond basketball, and the advice they want younger players in the program to carry forward.If this helped you think about leadership, confidence, or team culture, subscribe to Husky Huddle, share the episode with a basketball fan, and leave a review so more people can find these stories.

We share details for Family Fall Fun Night at Washington West with activities that welcome every family and student, plus what’s ahead with Cookies with Santa and an affordable Holiday Shop. Volunteers, prizes, and simple traditions build a warm, inclusive school community.• Family Fall Fun Night on Friday 5:30–7 pm at Washington West• Bingo with prizes and announcements throughout• Temporary tattoos and cookie decorating with 200 cookies provided• Building-wide scavenger hunt with prize for completed sheets• Shift from Halloween to inclusive fall theme• Student and university volunteers supporting stations• Cookies with Santa on Friday 5 December• Holiday Shop with all items $2 and gift wrapping• Every student guaranteed at least one gift to take home• Future events teased, with ParentSquare updatesWe invite all of our families to come and join us this Friday, November 14th, 5:30 to 7 for the Family Fall Fun Night. Of course, check in on Parent Square as more events are shared.

Recognition shouldn’t be rare—or reserved for a select few. We sit down with social studies teacher and Olean parent Joelle Perry to share how a homegrown honor roll celebration turned quiet effort into visible pride, grew participation to hundreds of students, and set a new standard for academic culture at Olean High School.Joelle traces the spark back to middle school traditions and a candid post-observation chat that asked, “What could we do better?” The answer became a three-times-a-year celebration that blends heartfelt teacher tributes with irresistible incentives: a warm breakfast of home fries, bacon, and local donuts for early honorees, and a third-marking-period push for high honors capped by an extreme ice cream sundae buffet. Along the way, we talk about why students need to hear “we see you,” how naming specific behaviors—late-night study sessions, thoughtful questions, attendance, and steady participation—builds trust, and why the high honor threshold of 92 percent turns momentum into mastery.This conversation is packed with practical details for educators and families: how to scale recognition without losing authenticity, how logistics and timing support learning, and how to frame excellence as a reachable challenge. Joelle’s message to students is clear and empowering: want excellence, plan the work, ask for help early, and bring the same effort to every class to become a whole student whose habits travel beyond the building. We also shout out the leaders who helped fund and champion the program, proving that budgets can reflect values when the goal is to celebrate achievement and raise expectations.If you care about school culture, student motivation, and sustainable ways to honor academic excellence, this is your roadmap and a morale boost rolled into one. Subscribe, share with a colleague or parent, and leave a review telling us your best recognition idea—we might feature it next time.

A quiet library turned into a buzzing café of curiosity—and it changed how students read. We sit down with Olean High School librarian Brianna Howard to unpack the “book tasting” that quadrupled circulation in a month, the power of visible mentorship, and the small choices that make reading feel irresistible instead of required. Starting as a social studies teacher and now in her second year as librarian, Brianna blends data, design, and heart to build a space where students explore freely. She walks us through eight high-interest genres, the simple menu system that invites quick sampling, and the classroom partnerships that keep momentum going.We zoom out to the bigger literacy picture: why foundational reading skills and digital literacy matter in an information-saturated world, and how students learn to evaluate sources, navigate online feeds, and make sense of complex media. Brianna shares how a countywide network of school librarians swaps ideas each quarter, how a neighboring district sparked the tasting concept, and why adapting ideas to your own community is the secret to success. Along the way, we talk genre surprises, Stephen King devotees, and the staff reading wall that turns hallway chats into book recommendations students actually follow.Mentors matter. When teachers and families talk about what they’re reading—paperbacks, audiobooks, memoirs like Matthew McConaughey’s Greenlights—students see reading as a living habit. Brianna offers a timely book recommendation, Mel Robbins’s Let Them Theory, and explains how it reshaped her approach to daily interactions: suggest and support, then let readers choose. We close with a look ahead at new collaborations, family engagement ideas, and the ongoing goal: more students finding books they didn’t expect to love. If you care about school libraries, student choice, and practical literacy strategies you can use tomorrow, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review telling us the last book you couldn’t put down.

Who doesn’t love the magic of "Finding Nemo"? Our latest episode bursts with excitement as we welcome Steve Ahl, our new French teacher at Olean, and a dedicated member of the Summer STAR Program since 2011. Steve takes us on his journey from being an Olean native to becoming an indispensable part of this beloved program. We dive into the STAR program's unique structure, where kids explore activities ranging from cooking and coding to robotics and poetry, all while being free from the pressures of traditional grading. The highlight? The Junior Musical, where this year’s students are gearing up to perform "Finding Nemo," a story close to many hearts.Feel the buzz of anticipation as we discuss the upcoming "Finding Nemo" performance set to grace Olean’s newly renovated, air-conditioned auditorium. Steve and I share our enthusiasm for the comfortable venue and the sheer joy of seeing our favorite underwater adventure come to life on stage. This episode is a celebration of creativity, fun, and stress-free learning. Join us in our mutual excitement and hear why the STAR program holds a special place in our hearts and how it continues to foster a love for learning in such a unique way. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that wraps up with our eager anticipation for the big performance on August 2nd!

Ever wondered how debating global issues can shape your future? Join us on this captivating episode of the Husky Huddle podcast as we sit down with Desi Muir and Ruby Chahal, our first-ever student guests, who share their transformative experiences with Model United Nations (Model UN). Desiree, an aspiring English teacher, and Ruby, who plans to major in Political Science, give us a window into their world—recounting their time at various Model UN conferences, including a spirited debate on world hunger at Cornell University. From cultural exchanges to the camaraderie built during overnight stays and delegate dances, their stories are filled with life lessons and unforgettable moments.Discover how participating in Model UN has been a game-changer for Desi and Ruby, significantly enhancing their public speaking skills and fueling their career aspirations. Throughout our conversation, they showcase their impressive speaking abilities and underscore the value of this unique experience. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Rakus for her exceptional guidance, and leave an open invitation for Desi and Ruby to return and share updates from their first year in college and beyond. Tune in for this inspiring discussion that highlights the immense benefits of Model UN in shaping the minds and futures of young individuals.

Welcome the return of the remarkable Sarah Morris to the Husky Huddle, where we unlock the secrets to nurturing new talent in our educational family. Together, we dissect the mentorship programs that have been a game-changer for our district's fledgling teachers, ensuring they're not just surviving but thriving. Sarah's expertise shines as we tackle the hurdles of navigating Teach accounts, fostering professional certification, and the immeasurable value of local community involvement. From the local music scene to the paper mills, hear how these partnerships bolster our educators' success and keep them woven into the fabric of our community.This episode is a heartfelt ode to the art of creating a close-knit cohort of educators, where mentorship is more a lifeline than a line on a resume. Discover how unscripted conversations and regular meetups are transforming our newest Huskies into confident educators ready to tackle the classrooms of tomorrow. Sarah and I celebrate the proactive steps taken by our mentor-mentee pairs, leading to inspiring success stories that are nothing short of educational triumphs. So, tune in, find inspiration, and join us in cheering for the bright future of education in our district, one successful teacher at a time.

Unlock the mystery behind a school district's budget and discover the pivotal role you play in shaping the future of education! We sit down with Jenny Bilotta, our formidable business administrator, to scrutinize the proposed $56 million budget of the Olean City School District for the 24-25 academic year. This eye-opening discussion peels back the layers of fiscal decisions, revealing how they align with our district's mission and the impact on our cherished student programs. Jenny meticulously outlines strategic initiatives, including the exciting launch of a computer science curriculum and the expansion of our MTSS initiatives, underscoring our dedication to student achievement and success.Amidst the numbers and statistics, Jenny addresses the heart of our community—our students and educators. She discusses the reintroduction of special education programs within our own schools, highlighting the personal and academic benefits of familiar environments. The conversation also tackles the ongoing challenges of staffing, the importance of professional development, and our commitment to maintaining safe learning spaces. All this, while ensuring fiscal responsibility with a modest tax levy increase of 1%. Tune in to discover how this budget blueprint stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to educational excellence and the prosperity of our students.

Embark on an educational odyssey with us as Jen Kless, Olean City Schools' Director of Curriculum and Instruction, recounts her compelling transition from a kindergarten classroom to the halls of district leadership. Witness the unveiling of a groundbreaking ELA curriculum, as Jen lays bare the transformative journey from a traditional balanced literacy framework to an innovative approach designed to ensure sustainability, equity, and consistency across our schools. With a vision for equitable literacy education that transcends classroom boundaries, Jen and her dynamic team—comprising educators from varying specialties—have crafted a curriculum that promises to sculpt the future of literacy learning for every student.Tune in for a deep exploration of the collaborative spirit that's breathing life into our new ELA program at Olean City Schools. The dedication of our team shines through as we eagerly anticipate engaging with our community, inviting feedback, and addressing queries to reinforce the transparent thread woven through this educational endeavor. Join us as we pledge our unwavering commitment to literacy, outlining strategic steps to foster thriving literacy outcomes for our scholars. The Husky Huddle is more than a conversation; it's a commitment to the educational enrichment of our Husky family, and we're excited to have you be a part of this transformative chapter.

Imagine stepping into a school district radiating with pride and a mission-driven team ready to make a difference. That's exactly what Dr. Michael Irizarry, the Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services in the Olean City School District, does every day, and he's here to share the playbook on how to recruit and retain the cream of the crop in education. In our latest Husky Huddle episode, we go behind the scenes of what it takes to create a thriving educational team. Dr. Irizarry, in his inaugural year, has not only woven the district's values into his strategy but also ensured that each new educator is met with unwavering support, much like the mentorship program enhanced by Sarah Morris.As we celebrate the induction of new Huskies into our pack, we reflect on the exceptional culture that makes our district stand out in a sea of red and gold. Dr. Irizarry's insights, coupled with the vibrant community spirit, underscore the importance of a supportive environment where both educators and students flourish. Joining this episode, he leaves us looking forward to the future with anticipation for continued collaboration and shared successes. So, sit back and listen to how the Olean City School District is not just recruiting teachers but nurturing leaders and innovators for a brighter educational future.

Join us as we sit down with Rich DeMartino, assistant principal of Olean Intermediate Middle School (OIMS), to explore the transformative power of extracurriculars in student life. We're not just talking about after-school activities; we're diving into a world where clubs and sports become catalysts for personal growth, leadership development, and forging deep connections within the school community. Rich brings to light the significant strides the Student Activities Council made in boosting school spirit and outlines the eagerly anticipated end-of-year events that celebrate student achievements. Listen in for an enriching discussion on the multifaceted benefits of student engagement beyond the classroom and how it's shaping the vibrant culture at OIMS.What does Batman have to do with educational leadership? Find out as we unpack the superhero qualities that make influential school leaders with our guest, Rich DeMartino. In a chapter that's sure to energize and motivate, we discuss the synergy between committed staff, passionate leaders, and the unstoppable energy of students. Through the lens of some of Gotham's finest traits, we examine the power of collective problem-solving and the resulting triumphs that define OIMS's unique environment. Tune in for a celebration of teamwork, camaraderie, and the shared journeys that empower every student to become their own version of a caped crusader.

Prepare to be whisked away on an educational journey led by Dan Freeman and Matt Woleben, as we explore the cosmic wonders of the upcoming April 8th total solar eclipse. Learn more about Star Lab sessions, where EV, WW, and OIMS students become astute observers of the skies, versed in the delicate dance of celestial bodies. Our hands-on approach equips our future astronomers with knowledge of safe viewing practices and fosters an infectious excitement that has the whole district buzzing. It's safe to say we are all excited for April 8,  the day we stand united under the full eclipse of the sun.As we embark on this celebratory countdown to totality, join us as we discuss the profound beauty of nature's grandest spectacle. Also, continue to hope for non-cloudy weather! We eagerly anticipate reconvening post-eclipse to share the transformative experiences carved by this rare alignment of the cosmos! 

Unlock the secrets behind the numbers that shape our children's education, as we sit down with Jenny Bilotta, our OCSD Business Administrator with a treasure trove of experience spanning two decades. She takes us behind the scenes of school district budget development, revealing how strategic foresight blends with the needs of students to craft fiscal blueprints. From the precision required to forecast expenditures 18 months ahead to the critical balance of salaries and contractual commitments, Bilotta breaks down the importance of smart spending without compromising educational quality. She sheds light on innovative cost-saving strategies, the ripple effects of inflation on utilities, the sting of health insurance surges, and the puzzle of state aid projections. Engage with us as we navigate the ever-evolving financial challenges of schooling and come away with a deeper understanding of the educational system's economic heartbeat.Then, we will discuss our Community Campus Renovations Update. As our facilities receive their final touches, we invite you to share our enthusiasm for the new playgrounds, revamped interiors, and locker room makeovers that await our students and community members alike. These renovations represent more than just an aesthetic uplift; they are the symbols of our commitment to fostering a vibrant community spirit. Join us at the upcoming public budget forum on May 7 at the OIMS LGI room, where your voice adds to the chorus that shapes the future of our educational landscape. Please subscribe and tune into Husky Huddle, where every conversation is a step towards enriching the lives of the families we serve in Olean! Go huskies!

Meet Jennifer Palaszynska-Mellott, the Assistant Principal at Olean High School with a story that's as unique as it is inspiring. As we chat, you'll be drawn into Jennifer's journey from the disciplined life of the military to the vibrant corridors of education. Her tales aren't just captivating – they're a masterclass in leadership adaptability. Witness the transformation of military precision into academic finesse, and discover how these skills are essential for nurturing a school environment where every student feels valued and part of a triumphant team.This episode is a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the challenges of policy enforcement with the heartening pursuit of student engagement. Ever been caught between loyalty to your sports team and the joy of a family rivalry? We share a slice of life from the stands of a section championship, where school spirit and family fun collide amidst the excitement of the game. It's not all about the laughs, though; we dig into the essence of communication in education, the significance of building a positive school culture, and embracing our shared human moments of learning from mistakes. Join us for an exploration into the essence of what truly makes a school a hub of learning and growth.

When Susan Boyle decided to pick up the baton as a high school orchestra teacher, little did she know her story would strike a chord with so many. Our latest episode strings together the melody of her journey from a Kansas native to a beacon of musical hope in the Olean City School District. Immerse yourself in Susan's narrative, where the harmony of small group sessions and the crescendo of large ensemble rehearsals craft a symphony of educational excellence. Feel the pulse of anticipation as we anticipate the grand performance of Susan's students on June 5th, where the high school auditorium will resonate with their refined talent and collective passion for music.Striking a different note, we also take a moment to applaud the rhythm of community support that amplifies the impact of music education in our local schools. With the baton in hand, we conduct a tribute to the symbiotic masterpiece composed of generous hearts and nurtured talent. Special applause is reserved for Susan Boyle, whose dedication orchestrates a difference in the Olean schools. Her contributions sing volumes, fostering a chorus of support for our future maestros. Tune in to witness how the power of music can transform not just a classroom but an entire community.

As the halls of Washington West echo with the sounds of laughter and learning, we're reminded that the heart of education beats not just through textbooks, but through the compassionate connections we foster. On today's Husky Huddle, we're joined by Lauren Stuff, the inspirational principal from Washington West, whose journey from a spirited teacher at IJN to a visionary educational leader has reshaped the landscape of social emotional learning in our schools.Lauren unveils the transformative measures embraced by her school to cultivate an environment where every student is seen and heard. From the emotionally intelligent "check-in" system inspired by the film "Inside Out," to the deeply empathetic "pack time" discussions encouraging students to share their inner worlds, these initiatives are changing the narrative of education. As you listen to Lauren's stories and strategies, you'll discover the profound impact that nurturing not just academic prowess but emotional well-being can have on our children's future. Join us for this illuminating conversation that's sure to inspire educators, parents, and anyone who believes in the power of kindness in shaping young minds.

Prepare for an astronomical spectacle as Jen Mahar, director of special programs at Olean City Schools, shares her wealth of knowledge on the upcoming total eclipse. In our latest Husky Huddle podcast, Jen, with over two decades of educational expertise, outlines how the community and schools are buzzing with preparations for this rare event. She discusses the expected timeline of the eclipse, vital safety measures to protect our eyes, and the educational opportunities that will bring science to life for students.As the moon prepares to perform its grand celestial dance on April 8th, our schools are aligning with early dismissal times, ensuring all students are equipped with safety glasses and informed on how to use them. Jen lays out the logistical framework for accommodating this extraordinary day, from traffic considerations to partnerships with local organizations like the YMCA for extended care. This episode is your go-to guide for experiencing the eclipse safely and making it a memorable educational moment for the whole family. Join us and transform this cosmic event into a communal celebration with Jen's insightful tips.

Embark on an educational odyssey with Sarah Morris, whose life story twists like a riveting novel, from PR to pedagogy, across oceans to the heart of Europe, and finally back to American soil here in the Olean City Schools.  In this episode, Sarah discussed the soul of education through her eyes, recounting a 17-year career highlighted by a transformative Czech sojourn. Her narrative isn't just about teaching and working on climate and culture for our staff- it's a heartwarming tale of finding love and nurturing a vision of educational leadership. Sarah's experiences exemplify the profound ways our professional journeys can deeply affect our personal lives and vice versa.We also unravel the tapestry of mentorship and its vital stitches in the educational fabric in the Olean City Schools. Discover how a promising mentorship program is coming to life in our district, complete with a handbook crafted to elevate teaching assistants' expertise. Our 'power hour' event, a recent phenomenon, is an illuminating chapter on how we're guiding new hires into the fold, encouraging valuable connections and community within our district. The episode envisions a mural of signatures, each a pledge from our staff to belong and unite in a school that's more than buildings and books—it would be a living, breathing community where every individual's story is the cornerstone of a collective narrative. Join us for this inspiring dialogue that paints a clearer picture of Sarah's impactful work here in Olean!

Discover the heartbeat of educational excellence as we delve into the intricacies of school accountability with me, Dr. Genelle Morris. As the proud superintendent of the Olean City School District, I discuss the latest measures shaping our schools and the impact they have on our diverse student body. This episode is a journey through the successes and hurdles we face in providing an equitable learning experience, underscored by the New York State Education Department's accountability measures.Our conversation navigates through the delicate balance of accountability measures and our strategic framework. I'll share how our strategic plan for the 2022-2023 school year, born from the collaborative spirit of our community, serves as a compass, guiding our efforts to enhance student outcomes and uphold our commitment to accountability. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the transformative power of education and the collective mission to nurture our next generation.

Unlock the secrets to making learning irresistible for our Olean elementary students as Laura Hodara, the energetic principal of East View Elementary, takes us on a journey through her innovative strategies for student engagement. As the first guest on the Husky Huddle podcast, Laura describes how her experiences have prepared her with actionable insights that are transforming the classroom experience. This episode is a treasure trove for educators and parents alike, promising to reveal how to cultivate an environment where students are not just present but passionately involved in their education.During our conversation, Laura unveiled her three-pronged approach, which goes beyond the typical group activities, ensuring that students find joy, relevance, and self-belief in their schoolwork. We explore how East View's commitment to active student involvement is bridging the gap between home and school, thereby enhancing parental engagement and boosting attendance rates. If you're looking for ways to revitalize the educational experience for both students and the community, let Laura's enthusiasm for teaching and the school's successes inspire you to open the doors to a new era of learning.

Welcome to our inaugural episode of the Husky Huddle, the official podcast of the Olean City School District!