My name is I’m Billy Floyd and I'm the arena host and in-game announcer for the Adirondack Thunder, Union Men’s and Women’s Hockey, and the Glens Falls Dragons. Since 2021, I’ve been blessed enough to entertain and connect with fans all over the Capital Region and North Country -- especially kids! This year, I’m bringing that same energy and positivity right into schools. When I visit, we play trivia and fun games (just like we would do at the arena or ballpark for in-game entertainment) and I give away prizes. But here’s the thing... every trivia question and game comes with a valuable lesson that kids can really take with them. I also share stories from my own life about why failing and losing isn’t the end, how to bounce back, and why it’s so important to support others when it’s their time to shine. We talk about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, doing what you love, why creativity is key, and why taking action matters more than anything else. Basically, I want to help students build confidence, stay positive, and have fun while learning how to succeed on and off the field. It's critical for my presentations to be extremely interactive because I want all of the kids to be involved in the "show" and this is my favorite way to connect with everyone. I'm beyond thrilled to bring the good vibes to your school!

Actor, singer and storyteller Lou Del Bianco has been performing for audiences of all ages since 1982. According to the New York Times, Lou’s dramatic approach to storytelling “puts pow into passivity!” The Parents Choice foundation states that “few performers excel as both storyteller and musician, but Lou Del Bianco is one who does.” Lou’s PARENTS CHOICE award winning recordings have garnered high praise from Billboard Magazine, NAPPA, T.V. GUIDE, BOOKLIST, CHILD Magazine, Family Fun and others! Lou has performed all over the country, from the Tastes of Chicago to the Kravis Center to Carnegie Hall. His music video, “A Little Bit Clumsy”, was featured on the Learning Channel. He has traveled the Northeast for 30 years, performed in San Diego at the International Reading Association’s annual convention and served as keynote speaker on arts / character education from North Carolina to Massachusetts. Lou has been an artist-in-residence since 1987 and has worked in many schools alongside teachers to help improve literacy in the classroom. His Around the World and Make a Good Choice! one man shows have reached thousands of elementary school children all over the tri-state area. At 6’4”, Lou’s portrayal of Abraham Lincoln has been endorsed by the Lincoln Bicentennial Commission. He has also been the go to “Lincoln” for THE TONIGHT SHOW with Jimmy Fallon. Jimmy loves Abe Lou’s grandfather, Luigi, was the chief carver on Mount Rushmore and was honored by TLC’s CAKE BOSS. His one man show about his grandfather was performed to rave reviews at Mount Rushmore. On September 16, 2017, a plaque was unveiled at Rushmore honoring Luigi’s unique contribution. Lou’s 25 year journey to get Luigi recognized culminated with a CBS SUNDAY MORNING story as well as the publication of Lou’s award winning book, “Out of Rushmore’s Shadow”. CNN historian Douglas Brinkley says this groundbreaking book “…turns orthodox history on its head.” Since then, Luigi’s unique role has been featured on several prime time TV shows like “The UnXplained” with William Shatner and “Ancient Aliens”. From History to Diversity to Social Emotional Learning, Lou offer a wide range of programs for elementary and middle schools.

Hello.... even though I hold several world records for climbing and skiing in the Himalaya, and even took a hot air balloon over Everest (we crashed, but made an award winning film!) and was on the U.S. Biathlon Team, and lived with an indigenous tribe on each continent, I still took time to make books, fun books! My books have won Parent's Choice, Pick of the List, NCSS Notable Books for Social Studies, and so much more. Any regions you study: rainforest, desert, mountains, and so on, we visit in my multi-media presentation. We cover standards for MANY subjects, and all national standards for geography and social studies. I leave you with a video, teaching guides, and activities to work with. Imagine large images from adventures around the world, and cultures on each continent, while I give personal information via story telling as an all school assembly... or divide the school into groups for a more personal Q and A to follow. I tailor my words to my audience and work with all k-12 students.

Think Wellness NY has been partnering with schools across New York State since 2017, providing impactful, mindfulness-based enrichment programs that promote academic success, student well-being, and a positive school culture. All of our offerings are grounded in mindfulness and are designed to help schools address key challenges such as stress, anxiety, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, and low morale. Our programs support Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), improve focus, and enhance students’ readiness for learning and life. Our enrichment programs for students (Pre-K through 12th grade) include: Wellness Week Our signature offering, Wellness Week, brings a full week of rotating sessions in Mindfulness, Yoga, Guided Meditation, and Journaling directly into the school day. Designed for PE push-ins, health classes, or special scheduling blocks, Wellness Week helps students: Manage anxiety and reduce stress Improve focus and academic readiness Strengthen emotional awareness and self-regulation Build long-term wellness habits Customizable to each school’s schedule, this turnkey program includes all materials and is taught by certified professionals. Youth Music Program This calming, creative program introduces students to the joy and healing power of sound. We bring a wide variety of instruments—drums, shakers, chimes, and more—for students to explore. Through rhythm, sound play, and mindfulness techniques, children build focus, emotional expression, and sensory awareness in an engaging, non-competitive environment. Mindful Art Program Our hands-on art sessions incorporate calming techniques and reflective prompts that support emotional growth. Projects such as “Gratitude Cards” using food dye and shaving cream help students express emotions, connect with inner calm, and develop creative confidence. All materials are provided. Mindful Nature Program Designed to cultivate peaceful attention and sensory engagement, this program can be done indoors or outdoors and gets students interacting with natural materials. Activities like “Nature Impression Cards” and soil-based art encourage students to get their hands dirty while learning to observe, reflect, and slow down. Yoga for Kids Developmentally appropriate yoga classes for students of all ages. These sessions promote self-regulation, flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. All sessions are trauma-sensitive and mindfulness-based, with a strong focus on breath, body awareness, and inner peace. Staff Wellness & Professional Development Mindfulness and Burnout Prevention for Educators Offered as a 1-hour, 3-hour, or full-day training, this workshop equips teachers and school staff with practical, evidence-based tools to: Reduce stress and burnout Improve emotional resilience Model mindfulness in the classroom Strengthen schoolwide wellness culture This professional development program has been delivered to thousands of educators across New York and is a powerful tool for supporting staff morale, mental health, and retention. All sessions are taught by trained professionals and include all necessary supplies. Think Wellness NY is a NYS-approved vendor and eligible for BOCES contracts where applicable. Custom scheduling options are available.

Being One World provides research-informed professional development designed to strengthen staff effectiveness, resilience, and school culture. Services include workshops and multi-session training in growth mindset, trauma-informed practice, mindfulness-based self-regulation, emotional intelligence, and conscious leadership development. Workshops support educators and leaders in reducing stress-driven reactivity, improving communication and collaboration, building identity-affirming learning environments, and sustaining performance in high-demand settings. All sessions are practical, experiential, and aligned with district goals related to social-emotional learning, staff wellness, culturally responsive practice, and improved student outcomes. Professional development is available in in-person formats and can be customized to meet district priorities.

Musical assembly and Artist in residence programs. Songwriting can cover any topic you choose, character, SEL, school song, etc. Assembly topics include character, antibully, mindfulness, multicultural, health, respect tour, reading celebration and fun family nights. Very interactive and fun!

I am a visual fiber artist based in the Catskill Mountains who spent the last three school years as a visiting artist for 8th graders at Van Antwerp and Iroquois Middle Schools in Niskayuna working with art teachers Katherine Chwazik, Alyssa LaPatra, and Dana Sela. I visited students for two days per quarter (different groups each quarter and averaging around 75 students per day). I collaborated with the schools prior to my arrival to collect recycled fabrics from quilting fabric to second hand clothing, which were the basis of a recycled fabric collage project. My visits began with a brief power point lecture about my practice working with fibers in needlepoint, chair weaving, and fabric collage to set the stage. Each year, the teachers I worked with wanted the project to have a different focus based on the gaps they thought it could fill in the curriculum. The fabric projects were: landscapes ('21-'22), merit medals ('22-'23), and yarn/fabric abstract works based on music ('23-'24). The projects allowed students to express their individuality through choosing subjects that meant something personal to them, whether that be a landscape of their hike in the Adirondacks, or creating abstract shapes based on their love for Taylor Swift. As a fiber artist, this project does not fit neatly into the Visual Arts categories listed, and therefore I think provided kids with an unusual opportunity to explore an unorthodox medium for a public classroom setting. This project is flexible in terms of subject and I can accommodate the lesson plan for a wide age range of kids, from 6th grade to 12th grade.

The Write Kellys: A Unique Blend of Education and Entertainment for K-5 Classrooms The Write Kellys (Rebecca and Kevin Kelly) are an award-winning author and illustrator duo with a knack for crafting engaging, educational, and highly entertaining stories. With four published books, including Finder’s Creatures and The Awesome Impossible Unstoppable Gadget, they have created a captivating universe where young readers solve mysteries, explore creative thinking, and dive into STEM-based adventures. How we approach our Workshops and Presentations using : 1. Design Thinking & Critical Thinking Expertise: The Write Kellys embed design and critical thinking into every story, helping students develop essential problem-solving skills while they’re having fun. With over 25 years of teaching, writing and design experience, we prepare young readers for future learning in a way that no other author does. 2. STEM & Arts-Based Storytelling Workshops: We don’t just read stories; we transform them into interactive experiences. Our workshops blend STEM and art seamlessly, making subjects like science and engineering approachable and exciting for K-5 students. 3. Interactive Author Q&A and Writing Workshops: We offer personalized sessions where students can ask questions, participate in creative writing exercises, and even explore the process of illustration. This interactive approach fosters a deeper connection to the material and encourages creative thinking. 4. Character Development & Design: Our stories go beyond simple narratives. We emphasize character education, teaching values like empathy, kindness, and perseverance through engaging and relatable characters. 5. Custom Events: From mystery-themed events featuring our alter ego P. Knuckle Jones to tailored workshops that meet specific curriculum goals, we work with schools to create custom experiences that resonate with both students and educators. What Others are Saying: “Two hilarious investigations in one!” — Kirkus “A strong recommendation for budding readers and detectives” — School Library Journal “A delightful read for children who enjoy solving mysteries, offering a perfect mix of intrigue, laughs, and memorable moments” — Reader’s Favorite

We are The Binghamton Crosbys, Binghamton University's oldest a cappella group. We are a TTBB group and have been active for over 40 years, with repertoire covering everything from classic rock hits like 'Cecilia' (Simon and Garfunkel) and 'Mr. Roboto' (The Styx) to modern songs like 'Writings On The Wall' (Sam Smith) to niche classics like 'I Wanna Be Like You' (The Jungle Book). Our goal is to show that artistic pursuits do not need to end after high school. With many of us pursuing majors outside of the arts, we use music as our creative outlet for expression. Every January, we go on a Winter Tour around the state of New York, performing at schools, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other venues. In addition to performances, we also offer workshops to choir groups and music classes where we teach students sections of our songs. If you are interested in having us perform for your school, please contact us using the email or phone number provided. Thank you!

American DanceWheels Foundation Presents – Better Together “We are all one, even if we feel worlds apart!” American DanceWheels Foundation’s Better Together assembly uses disability awareness and the beauty of dance to promote understanding, kindness, and respect for people of all abilities. The Show Meet the Performers: Students will be introduced to talented dance performers who will share their personal journeys of challenge and triumph. Wheelchair Ballroom and Latin Dance Performance: Students will watch wheelchair dance performances by dance couples made up of one seated and one standing partner who defy expectations while celebrating the beauty of diverse abilities. Interactive Q&A: Students will have an opportunity to make their voices heard during a question-and-answer segment, engaging directly with the performers and allowing for a deeper connection and understanding. Mini-Dance Lesson (when wheelchair available and class size permits): Participants will be invited to join a mini-dance lesson and experience the joy of movement from both seated and standing perspectives. This interactive dance lesson will help students understand how people can work together to create something beautiful and fun, if they are given the opportunity and tools to participate and learn. Better Together is not just a performance—it’s an opportunity for students to see beyond physical differences and appreciate the shared human spirit through dance. Book this transformative assembly to foster character development and cultivate a culture of inclusivity within your school.

From color-changing creatures to extreme environments to far-out foods, Alicia Klepeis loves to research fun and out-of-the-ordinary topics that bring the world to young readers. Alicia began her career at the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C. She is the author of over 200 children’s books, the majority of which are nonfiction. Her recent nonfiction titles include Go Wild! Frogs; Gutsy Girls Go For Science: Astronauts; and Polar Bears & Penguins: A Pretty Cool Introduction to the Arctic and Antarctic. She was featured on PBS Books’ Author Talk for Kids series about her book The Science And Technology Of Ben Franklin. Her fiction works include the wildlife-focused collections Secrets of the Forest and Secrets of the Ocean: 15 Bedtime Stories Inspired By Nature. She is also the author of the picture book Francisco’s Kites/Las cometas de Francisco, which was named to the Tejas Star Reading List. A former middle school teacher, Alicia loves doing author visits and regularly presents to kids from PreK – Grade 8. Her programs include Amazing Animals, Making Nonfiction Fun, and Let’s Go There! She is more than happy to tailor her presentations to a school’s interests and curricula. She is currently working on projects on the topics of nocturnal animals, popular musicians, and world history. She lives with her family in upstate New York where she can often be found eating fruity candy while reading a book or writing a letter to one of her many penpals.

We offer a one of a kind school mural program where the students are centered in the work and entire process from brainstorming to final painting. Our mural process involves a brainstorming session where we have the students drawing and coming up with ideas that touch on the theme that is chosen by their school. We then take those drawings and create a digital sketch using the actual drawings from the students. We involve every student from the school in the painting process so that they are able to have ownership and a hand in the creative process. Our unique approach creates a sense of joy and excitement for all participating students and staff as we are able to transform these hallways into large colorful pieces of public art that have an authentic student look and feel to them. We make sure that the final outcome looks professional and clean while still elevating student work from the paper to the wall. We have painted with over 7000 students in the past 2 years creating about 25 murals! We also offer a variety of arts based hands on workshops crafted for all age groups like mask making, printmaking, paper pulp sculptures, paper mache and much more!