On Monday, Dec. 2, the Greater Amsterdam School District came together in a heartfelt tribute to celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Liam Pickett, a beloved Chemistry teacher who left a lasting impact on the students, staff, and families of our community. Faculty, staff, and students from across the district wore special "Ramily" shirts designed to honor Mr. Pickett’s memory. The shirts featured a meaningful Irish clover and his initials, LP, symbolizing his heritage and the enduring mark he made on Amsterdam High School.
Over 90 members of the Amsterdam "Ramily" participated in this tribute, demonstrating the strength of community bonds within the district. Through the sale of these commemorative shirts, more than $700 was raised for the Liam D. Pickett Memorial Scholarship fund. This scholarship, established in Mr. Pickett’s name, will support Amsterdam High School students in pursuing their academic and personal goals, continuing his legacy of fostering growth and excellence.
The day was made even more special by the presence of members of Mr. Pickett’s family, who visited Amsterdam High School to share in the community’s remembrance. Their presence brought an additional sense of connection and healing, underscoring the profound impact Mr. Pickett had on everyone who knew him.
Superintendent Richard Ruberti spoke about the importance of coming together as a community to honor those who have shaped our district’s story. “The loss of Mr. Pickett was deeply felt across Amsterdam, but days like this remind us of the power of unity and the strength of the bonds that tie us together as one ‘Ramily.’ By coming together to celebrate his life, we not only honor his legacy but also inspire our students and staff to continue building the kind of supportive and compassionate community he valued so greatly,” said Ruberti.
Mr. Pickett’s legacy extends far beyond the classroom. As a teacher, colleague, and friend, he embodied dedication, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to education. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him, and initiatives like the memorial scholarship ensure that his influence will continue to shape the lives of students for years to come.
The Greater Amsterdam School District would like to extend its deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in this tribute, as well as those who supported the fundraiser. Your contributions not only honor Mr. Pickett’s memory but also strengthen our commitment to supporting one another as a community.
As we move forward, let us continue to uphold the values Mr. Pickett exemplified—dedication to learning, kindness toward others, and a steadfast belief in the power of education to transform lives.
