Here in New York State, the concept of connected community schools is expanding. What exactly does that mean?

Canastota Central School District is the latest Central New York area district to officially become a Connected Community school.

"Everyday when we come to work, we want to have our students have a second to none opportunity. And we want our families to say, you know what, our kids are going to a great school," Superintendent Shawn Bissetta said at the ceremony. "Today is about taking an important step of backing up our words with productive, positive action."

According to the Daily Sentinel, through CCS, students are better able to thrive after having more of their needs met. They have been able to  provide a network of support for needs such as food, hygiene items, clothing, social services, and more.

What Exactly Is A Connected Community School In New York State?

 

If we were able to bring together the entire community, including agencies, services, organizations, businesses, places of worship, individuals, teachers, administrators, union members and leaders, investors and other people with the same mission, could we help students become successful, productive and engaged healthy citizens?

A connected community school takes the politics out of education in many ways and focuses on all needs, even outside of the school, for children. They provide food, hygiene items, clothing, social services, and more.

Currently there has been a huge success with this concept in the city of Rome, and the idea is expanding across the state. You can read more online here and learn how to get involved.

These 15 New York State Counties Have The Highest Home Prices

Buying home across America is expensive. According to Realtor.com, the national median home price for single family homes hit a new record high of $405,000 in March. Where in New York State are the highest home prices?

Based on the most up to date statistics from Realtor.com, these 15 counties have the highest median home prices. Scroll through to see how much they cost and what the largest and/or most expensive home on the market in that county looks like.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

21 New York State Counties With The Most Horrendous Commute Times

Have you ever stopped and added up how much time you spend behind the wheel? What are the worst commute times for counties across New York State?

How bad do we REALLY have it in New York State when it comes to our commute times? According to The U.S. Census Bureau, the national average for a one-way commute to or from work is 26.9 minutes and 9.3% of workers nationwide have a one-way commute of 60 minutes or more. Here in New York State, the mean travel time to work in minutes for workers age 16 years+ between 2016-2020 was around 33.5 minutes.

Which counties across the state are the worst?

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

From A to Z: You'll Adore These Small Town Central NY Restaurants

Have you tried any of the following? Let us know your thoughts inside our station app.

Gallery Credit: Kaylin

More From Zoey 103.9