District mourns the passing of Glen-Worden Principal Nicholas Criscone (UPDATED 7/22)

Dear Students, Parents, Teachers, and Staff,

This message is in follow-up to my letter sharing the news of Principal Criscone’s passing. We have finalized our counseling plans, and I am writing to share them with you.

The district, in conjunction with Community Hospice, will be providing drop-in grief counseling services in the Sacandaga Elementary Library Media Center at the following times:

  • Tuesday, July 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Thursday, July 25, from 4 to 6 p.m.

No appointment is necessary. Counselors will be available to speak with anyone needing support as we process the tragic and untimely death of Principal Criscone.

Please feel free to contact my office with any questions.
Sincerely,
Susan M. Swartz, Superintendent


Dear Students, Parents, Teachers, and Staff,

It is with great sadness that I write to inform you of the tragic and untimely passing of our Glen-Worden Principal Nicholas Criscone. This sudden loss has deeply shaken our school community, and we are all mourning the passing of a dedicated educator, leader, and friend.

Principal Criscone was not just a principal; he was the heart and soul of Glen-Worden Elementary School. His passion for his staff and students, parents and families was unwavering; he had a true Tartan heart and commitment to the Scotia-Glenville community. Nick’s warm smile, encouraging words, and genuine care for each member of our community will be sorely missed.

In the wake of this tragedy, I encourage you to come together as a community of support during this difficult time. Grief counselors will be available at Sacandaga Library Media Center for students, teachers, and staff who may need support processing their emotions and coping with this loss. That schedule will be released as soon as it is finalized, but no later than Monday. In the interim, please do not hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or someone to talk to.

As we navigate through this period of mourning, I encourage you to remember Principal Criscone for the positive impact he had on our school and the lives of those around him. Whether with his staff and students, colleagues, or his beloved family, Nick selflessly gave of himself and his talents. Please honor his memory and dedication by continuing to uphold the values of excellence, compassion, and unity that he brought to our school community.

Please keep Nick and his family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will honor Nick by supporting one another as we grieve the loss of a dear friend, mentor, and leader. I have included two resources below that you may find helpful as you speak with your children or students.

We will continue to provide updates in the coming days regarding any memorial services or tributes that may be planned in honor of Principal Criscone. In the meantime, our summer programs for students will run as scheduled. We will have extra staff on hand to help any summer school student who may need time, space, or assistance with processing this untimely passing of our beloved principal.

Sincerely,

Susan M. Swartz, Superintendent

Grief Resources

Helping children cope with grief