Howard L Goff Middle School

General information

East Greenbush Central School District is a high-achieving public school district in the Capital Region, located five miles from Albany, N.Y. The District serves approximately 4,000 students in seven schools – one high school, one middle school and five neighborhood elementary schools.

Columbia High School houses approximately 1,275 students and offers an extensive educational plan. Our students consistently meet and surpass New York State's New Standards. In addition, Columbia offerings include: Merit Scholarships; Regents and school diplomas; vocational programs through Questar III; interscholastic sports and club activities; credits at nearby colleges and evening Continuing Education programs; business-school partnerships; a Career Exploration Internship program; an extensive art, music, and theater program; and a four-year honors program.

The Goff Middle School educational plan includes: team teaching with a flexible, modular based schedule; technology classes and computer labs in the classroom; home and career skills; foreign languages; many clubs and athletic programs; guidance counselors, social workers, and school psychologists; a health office with certified staff; a library program; a theater program; student recognition programs; a full music and art program; a Special Education inclusion program; and field trip opportunities.

Our five elementary schools are located near the homes of the District's younger students. Each of the schools has its own unique characteristic, history, and traditions. The schools' offerings include: math and student-based differentiated reading programs that provide the students the opportunity to progress at their own rate while meeting the State's New Standards; libraries; cafeterias with hot lunches; health offices with certified staff; computer education with labs in each classroom; art, music and physical education; psychological services; and tutorial programs staffed by District volunteers.

We offer a comprehensive Special Education program for students with disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21. The goal of our program is to provide a free and appropriate Individual Education Plan (IEP) for the handicapped student. Routine screening procedures for new pupils are conducted throughout the district annually. Parents who suspect their children may have a disability can also initiate the referral process.

Residents have shown commitment to our schools by passing 22 consecutive school budgets (1995-2016) and approving a number of bus propositions and capital projects.