Minutes Regular Board Meeting– September 8, 2020
Consideration of Executive Session – Personnel Matter 6:00 PM
Reconvene to Recognition/Regular Session 6:45PM/7:00 PM
Meeting televised Live Streamed remotely with attendance via Google Meet Hangouts as well as in person attendance. Video and Minutes Posted to Website with Closed Caption.
Members Present
- Gretchen Meier, President
- Cara Robertson, Vice President (joined approx.. 7:39 PM via Google meet)
- Kristin Graessle (via Google meet)
- Dori Johnson
- Kristi Kheiralla (via Google meet)
- Ross Tompkins
Members Absent:
- Matthew Watkins (attended exec.session only)
Others Present
- Tim Mains, Superintendent of Schools
- Amy Brockner, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction
- Michael Pacella, Assistant Superintendent for Business
- Angela Wise, Executive Director for Personnel, Data, and Counseling
- Linda Smith, District Communications Representative
- John Hicks, Director of Educational Technology
- Deborah June, District Clerk (via Google Meet)
- Approximately 28 residents/students/staff members (in person and virtual)
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Gretchen Meier with the following motion offered:
MOVED by Trustee Graessle, second by Trustee Watkins, that the Board of Education open the regular meeting at approximately 6:09 PM
YES –6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED (C. Robertson arrived at approx. 7:39 PM)
Executive Session
MOVED by Trustee Watkins, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education adjourn regular session to executive session for the purpose of personnel matter at approximately 6:10 PM.
YES –6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education adjourn executive session and resume the regular meeting at approximately 6:52 PM.
YES –6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
President Gretchen Meier welcomed all to the regular meeting, and requested all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, noting the time at approx. 6:59 PM.
Student Recognition
The Board of Education recognized (virtually and in person) the following students for achieving a score of 5 on
their AP Exams during the 2019-2020 school year:
Grade 10, AP European History
Abraheim Ahmed
Madeleine Cerone
Daniella Deckaj
Samantha Rezza
Gabrielle Rodriguez
Tami Somorin
Dwayne Villanoza
2019-2020 Grade 11, AP US History
Caleb Arena
Krista Edwards
Abigail Halpin
Isaac Jaloszynski
Makaila Meurer
Alan Soto
Alexis Trojahn
2019-2020 Grade 12 (Graduates) AP US Government and Politics
Dylan Cline-Larsen
Trent Cline-Larsen
Katherine Langlitz
Taylor Pannell
Ashley Parkes
Cedric Raber
Ellen Schoenberg
Paul Viscardo
2019-2020 Grade 11 AP English Language and Composition
Josiah Cruz
Leah Golding
Anita Licata
Zhenia Ochoa
Jovan Palinkas
Ruqayyah Pickel
Alexis Trojahn
2019-2020 Grade 12 (Graduates) AP English Literature and Composition
Kathleen Gang
Corey Irwin
John (Jack)Torpey
2019-2020 Grade 12 (Graduate) AP Chemistry
James Acton
2019-2020 AP Computer Science
Justin Ceiley (Grade 11)
Lenny Elzey (Graduate)
2019-2020 AP Biology
John Torpey (Graduate)
Approval of Minutes
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education approve the minutes of the August 18, 2020 board meetings as submitted by the District Clerk.
YES –5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED (M. Watkins not in attendance for reg. session)
BOE Amends Revised Consent Agenda to Include Addition to the Consent Agenda
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Meier, that the Board of Education approve amending the revised consent agenda to include the addition to the Consent Agenda.
YES –4 NO – 0 Abstain -1 (Johnson) MOTION CARRIED
Reports, Recommendations of the Superintendent of Schools
Consent Agenda
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Meier, that the Board of Education approve the following revised* consent agenda including the addition to the consent agenda as submitted by the Superintendent of Schools:
Abolishment
Board authorization for the abolishment of the following positions:
Instructional
- (3) Seven 7.0 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (6) Seven 6.75 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (40) Forty 6.5 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (42) Forty Two 6.0 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (1) One 5.25 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (2) Two 5.0 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (12) Twelve 4.0 hours/day Teaching Assistant positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
The abolishment of the above Teaching Assistant positions will be realized through the following lay-offs effective on October 9, 2020 as follows:
- Martisha Paulus 6.0 hours/day
- Maria Weissman 6.0 hours/day
- Jennifer Wood 6.0 hours/day
- Sharon Demetriou 6.0 hours/day
- Kellie VanHaaster 6.0 hours/day
- Beverly Brownsell 7.0 hours/day
- Dorothy Lamberti 6.0 hours/day
- Theresa Shaw 6.0 hours/day
- Colleen Coyle 6.75 hours/day
- Susan Lauro 6.0 hours/day
- Julie Valentin 6.0 hours/day
- Mary Ellen Cook 6.5 hours/day
- Kathleen Novins 6.0 hours/day
- Joan Fama 6.0 hours/day
- April Grieco 6.5 hours/day
- Patricia Campbell 6.0 hours/day
- Colleen Huff 7.0 hours/day
- Jacqueline Endreson 6.0 hours/day
- Patricia Salle 6.5 hours/day
- Kelly McCauley 6.0 hours/day
- Coleen Duffy 6.0 hours/day
- Robin Laspisa 6.5 hours/day
- Mary Perry 6.0 hours/day
- Kelly Schultz-Hassan 6.5 hours/day
- Margaret Winsper 6.0 hours/day
- Diane Nawoschik 6.5 hours/day
- Elizabeth Stewart 6.000 hours/day
- Barbara Lieberman 6.5 hours/day
- Christine Carlino 6.5 hours/day
- Denisee Martin 4.0 hours/day
- Darlene Stuber 6.5 hours/day
- Elissa Skala 6.5 hours/day
- Karen Knox 6.0 hours/day
- Lisa Heckmann 6.0 hours/day
- Michelle Colon 6.5 hours/day
- Liberty Klosterman 4.0 hours/day
- Awilda Echevarria 6.5 hours/day
- Barbara Lake 6.5 hours/day
- Barbara Ferguson 6.0 hours/day
- Linda Linhares 5.0 hours/day
- Melissa Hadden 6.5 hours/day
- Tammy McCombs 6.5 hours/day
- Rita Wensley 6.5 hours/day
- Diana Santinello 6.5 hours/day
- Diane Angeloni 6.0 hours/day
- Anastasia Garrison 6.5 hours/day
- Karen Kennelty 4.0 hours/day
- Suzanne Meath 6.5 hours/day
- Tara Habernig 6.0 hours/day
- Kimberly Doviak 6.0 hours/day
- Ana Morales 6.5 hours/day
- Heather Wells-Fagan 6.5 hours/day
- Jodi Martin 6.0 hours/day
- Jill Sakolsky 6.0 hours/day
- Debbie McFarland 6.5 hours/day
- Tonja Robbins 6.5 hours/day
- Cynthia Fortunato 6.0 hours/day
- Tammy Denardo 6.0 hours/day
- Maryanne Manion 7.0 hours/day
- Dawn Darrell 6.5 hours/day
- Deanna Gorman 6.75 hours/day
- Arlene Cooper 6.0 hours/day
- Kirsten DeWitt 6.5 hours/day
- Danielle Jaloszynski 6.5 hours/day
- Melissa Herring 6.0 hours/day
- Alexis Soto 6.0 hours/day
- Diana Gingold 4.0 hours/day
- AnnMarie Crouch 5.0 hours/day
- Jamie Almeida 5.25 hours/day
- Deirdre Babcock 6.5 hours/day
- Mireille Weissberg 6.5 hours/day
- Denise Kulak 6.5 hours/day
- Giovanna Sidoti 4.0 hours/day
- Angelina Vita 6.0 hours/day
- Valerie Turcotte 6.0 hours/day
- Nicole Horne 6.5 hours/day
- Debra Finn 6.5 hours/day
- Isabel Mejia 6.0 hours/day
- Bernadette Tymczyszyn 6.5 hours/day
- Linda Westerfield 6.0 hours/day
- Dawn Bedell 4.0 hours/day
- Crystal Norton 6.0 hours/day
- Diane Smutek 6.5 hours/day
- Priscilla Hassan 6.5 hours/day
- Shannon Peterson 4.0 hours/day
- Deana Adams 6.0 hours/day
- Samantha Irizarry 6.75 hours/day
- Denise Crisafulli 6.5 hours/day
- Kathleen Farah 4.0 hours/day
- Joyce Dooner 4.0 hours/day
- Samantha Alfieri 6.75 hours/day
- Angela Kruger 6.5 hours/day
- Theresa Valastro 6.0 hours/day
- Taleeya Parker 6.0 hours/day
- Tracy Thomas 6.0 hours/day
- Ellen Anderson 6.0 hours/day
- Christina Parsons 6.5 hours/day
- Gina Vanderkooy 4.0 hours/day
- Megan Kellett 6.75 hours/day
- Paul McMahill 6.5 hours/day
- Michelle Jollie 6.75 hours/day
- Joshua Hatfield 6.5 hours/day
- Tamara Andre 4.0 hours/day
- Melissa Algarin 6.0 hours/day
- Diane Higgins 6.5 hours/day
- Jean Gasca 4.0 hours/day
Non-Instructional
- (1) One 8.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (7) Seven 7.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (4) Four 6.75 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (14) Fourteen 6.5 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (18) Eighteen 6.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (2) Two 5.5 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (7) Seven 5.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (3) Three 4.5 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (3) Three 4.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (9) Nine 3.5 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (5) Five 3.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (2) Two 2.5 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (7) Seven 2.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
- (2) Two 1.0 hours/day School Monitor positions, effective on October 9, 2020.
The abolishment of the above School Monitors positions will be realized through the following lay-offs effective on October 9, 2020 as follows:
- Cynthia Gloster – 8.0 hours/day
- Lisa LaBar – 6.0 hours/day
- Donna Monahan 7.0 hours/day
- Rosemarie Cardoso 6.0 hours/day + 1.0 hr/day
- Debra Keindl 6.0 hours/day + 1.0 hr/day
- Helen Wilson 7.0 hours/day
- Katrina Morin 7.0 hours/day
- Jane Conroy 3.5 hours/day
- Lori Korin 5.5 hours/day
- Margaret Deserto 7.0 hours/day
- Deborah Rose 5.0 hours/day
- Paula Newman 4.5 hours/day
- Lina Walsh 6.5 hours/day
- Lori Masiello 3.5 hours/day
- Anne Wohlgemuth 3.0 hours/day
- Carole Zazversky 4.5 hours/day
- Diana Bowe 7.0 hours/day
- Angela Ferrara 3.5 hours/day
- Catherine Alfieri 6.0 hours/day
- Stephanie Kirk 3.5 hours/day
- Martha Telefus-Gillespie 7.0 hours/day
- Christine Ascolese 7.0 hours/day
- Jeanmarie Zawojski 6.5 hours/day
- Anne Weiler 6.5 hours/day
- Jean Haines 5.0 hours/day
- Susan Starr 6.0 hours/day
- Donna Davis 3.5 hours/day
- Patricia Perez 6.0 hours/day
- Tina Kerrigan 6.0 hours/day
- Dorota Dziadosz 4.5 hours/day
- Magdalena Ramos 5.0 hours/day
- Kim McNamara 5.0 hours/day
- Mary Meyle 4.0 hours/day
- Lisa Caputo 3.0 hours/day
- Patricia Paoli 6.75 hours/day
- Maria Rivas 3.5 hours/day
- Wendy Caccioppoli 2.0 hours/day
- Angela Hellstrom 3.5 hours/day
- Sonia Wagner-Babcock 6.5 hours/day
- Denise Coen 2.5 hours/day
- Kelly Moshinski 3.5 hours/day
- Alison Cain 6.0 hours/day
- Jessica Bedell 2.0 hours/day
- Russhell Gillespie 6.0 hours/day
- Gary Manheim 6.5 hours/day
- Susan Healy 6.0 hours/day
- Jaime Hadden 4.0 hours/day
- James Lemaux 3.5 hours/day
- Yolanda Solimine-Mandile 2.0 hours/day
- Barbara Sherman 6.0 hours/day
- Bridget Sullivan 3.0 hours/day
- Lisa Schiaffo 6.0 hours/day
- Alicia Sargeant 6.0 hours/day
- Jean Clark 4.0 hours/day
- Alexandra Offenheiser 6.0 hours/day
- Lanier Lopez 6.75 hours/day
- Marisol Burgos 6.5 hours/day
- Bari Walsh 3.0 hours/day
- Kiersten Garcia 6.5 hours/day
- Rosanne Connolly 6.5 hours/day
- Loriel Pinckney 6.5 hours/day
- Beberly Lugo 2.0 hours/day
- Janet Torres 2.0 hours/day
- Cathy Kahn 3.0 hours/day
- Nicholas Gesualdo 6.5 hours/day
- Andrealynn Colombo 6.5 hours/day
- Cindy Rivera 6.0 hours/day
- Ann Gaynor 6.0 hours/day
- Ruth Lora-DeJesus 6.0 hours/day
- Taneka Richardson 6.0 hours/day
- Justine Arlotta-Ayala 2.0 hours/day
- Lindsay Salvucci 5.0 hours/day
- Phyllis Radi 5.5 hours/day
- Rebecca Watson 6.5 hours/day
- Jessica Zukor 6.75 hours/day
- Courtney Andersen 5.0 hours/day
- Laura Rios 6.5 hours/day
- Tara Posey 6.75 hours/day
- Tami Kretschmer 6.0 hours/day
- Candace Woznick 2.5 hours/day
- Tiaisha Villafane 6.5 hours/day
- Madai Ramjeet 2.0 hours/day
- Brittany Bulson 5.0 hours/day
Non-Instructional
- (10) Ten Full-time 1.0 FTE School Security Aide positions, effective on September 8, 2020.
- (2) Two Part-time 0.5 FTE School Security Aide positions, effective on September 8, 2020.
The abolishment of the above School Security Aid positions will be realized through the following lay-offs effective on September 8, 2020 as follows:
Part Time School Security (1.0FTE)
- Thomas Lovelace – 4hr/day
- Joseph D’Alto – 4.0hr/day
- Full Time School Security (10.0FTE)
- Raymond Ramos – 8.0hr/day
- Walter Lapinski – 8.0hr/day
- Anthony Presto – 8.0hr/day
- Barbara Starr-Carroll– 8.0hr/day
- Melissa Ranta – 8.0hr/day
- Linda Shannon – 8.0hr/day
- Stephen Kirk – 8.0hr/day
- Denise Strype – 8.0hr/day
- Christopher Gorman – 8.0hr/day
Rescind
Instructional
- Sonia Orlando, approval to rescind the appointment to the position of a 1.0 FTE Permanent Substitute Teacher in the Special Education (General) tenure area for the period of September 1, 2020 and ending June 30, 2021.
Resignations
Instructional
- Kim Platt, resignation for the purposes of retirement, from her position as a 6.0 hours/day Teaching Assistant, effective at the close of business on August 31, 2020.
- Brandon Johanson, resignation from his position as a 1.0 FTE Teacher-Secondary, effective at the close of business on September 28, 2020.
Non-Instructional
- Christine Day, resignation from her position as a 6.0 hours/day School Monitor, effective at the close of business August 31, 2020.
- Suzanne Galeno, resignation from her position as a 6.0 hours/day School Monitor, effective at the close of business September 1, 2020.
- Jessica Perez, resignation from her position as a 3.0 hours/day School Monitor, effective at the close of business August 26, 2020.
Leave of Absence
Instructional
Donna Davis, request for an unpaid leave of absence from her position as a 3.5 hours/day School Monitor
effective September 4, 2020 through January 2, 2021.
Lisa Iannella, request for an unpaid leave of absence from her position as a 5.0 hours/day Food Service Helper effective September 4, 2020 through September 27, 2020.
Appointments
Instructional
Rachel Johnson, who holds an Initial certificate in Childhood Education 1-6, be appointed to the position of
1.0 FTE Permanent Substitute Teacher in the Special Education (General) tenure area for the period of
September 1, 2020 and ending June 30, 2021. Salary Level BA30, Step 1of the salary schedule.
Non-Instructional
Hazel Michel, reduction in hours (from 5hr/day) to a 3.0 hours/day position of Food Service Helper, effective
September 4, 2020 salary as per contract.
Krystle Augusta* who holds a Registration Certificate as Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant, be
appointed to the probationary position of a full-time, 10 month 1.0 FTE Occupational Therapy Assistant,
effective September 23, 2020. Salary at $56,154, pro-rated, noting that this probationary appointment is
certified through the Orange County Department of Human Resources.
Per Diem Substitutes
Board approval for the appointment of the following individuals as per diem substitutes (or tutor)
effective September 1, 2020, or as noted, at board approved per diem substitute rates:
Brandon Costello
Wendy DeBenedictus
Taylor Foley
Kathleen O’Malley
Alexandra Smith
Danielle Sweetser
Tara Thompson
Co-Curricular
Sixth-Period Assignment
Pine Bush High School
Board approval of the following instructional staff member teaching a sixth period/additional assignment for
the 2020-2021 school year at an annual contractual stipend of $5,500:
Ann Armand, ENL
Elizabeth Baxter, Special Education
Kathleen Bisaillon, Special Education
Renee Bray, Social Studies
Mark Brennan, Special Education
Andrew Britto, Social Studies
Allison Chastain, Science
Daniel Conley, Social Studies
Andrew Cook, Science
Shannon Countryman, Special Education
Jenel Duarte, Special Education
Mark Eckerson, English
Daniel Edwards, Foreign Language
Enis Egdemir, Foreign Language
Bethany Ganley* English
Christine Guarino, Science
Daniel Harrison, Science
Brian Heller, Special Education
Steven Hulle, Science
Eric Johnson, Science
Melissa Karban, Science
Kevin Kreeger, Science
Neil Lisberg, STEAM Polaris
Jonathan Lozier, Special Education
Kenneth Marshall, STEAM
Julie Medina, Foreign Language
Eric Moller, Science
Jeffrey Paggi, Special Education
Kristin Raucci, Foreign Language
Cindy Rivera-Ortiz, Foreign Language
Michelle Robinson, Science
Andrea Saylor, Special Education
Michael Sturm, Science
Susan Sturm, Science
Michael Terwilliger, Special Education
Marie Tobin, Special Education
Jennifer Travis, Special Education
Jennifer Vittoria, Special Education
Annette Wright, English
Sixth-Period Assignment (.5)
Pine Bush High School
Board approval of the following instructional staff member teaching a .5/ sixth period/additional
assignment for the 2020-2021 school year (or as noted)*at an annual contractual stipend (.5) of$5,500:
Kevin Blackwell, Social Studies
Kimberly Canaperi, Special Education
Erin Crispell, Special Education
Gerald Risco, Business
Charlene Webster, Social Studies
Karen Wright, Math
Sixth-Period Assignment
Circleville Middle School
Board approval of the following instructional staff member teaching a sixth period/additional assignment for
the 2020-2021 school year at an annual contractual stipend of $5,500:
Romulo Gabriel, Science
Maggy Godinez-Garcia* Spanish
Sixth-Period Assignment
Crispell Middle School
Board approval of the following instructional staff members teaching a sixth period/additional assignment
for the 2020-2021 school year at an annual contractual stipend of $5,500:
Janine Brutvan, Life Skills Program
Alexis Darro, Life Skills Program
Melissa Schueler, Life Skills Program
James Wright, Adaptive PE
Sixth Period/Additional Assignment (Middle Schools)
Board approval for the appointment of the following instructional staff members teaching half (.5)* of a sixth period/additional assignment for the 2020-2021 school year at half of the annual contractual stipend, (Classes are every other day, therefore, teacher(s) will receive half of the sixth period annual contract stipend*
Angie Meier, Math (CVMS)
Patricia Hoehman (CMS)
Marc Gittleman (CMS)
Circleville Middle School:
Team Leader Position
Board approval to amend the following staff member to the following co-curricular appointment for the 2020-21 school year, amended at the appropriate co-curricular stipends:
Keri Giuliano, Grade 7 Team Leader, Level II, Step 5 (5)
YES –4 NO – 0 Abstain -1 (Johnson) MOTION CARRIED
(Board member requested clarification by the Superintendent of addition to consent agenda).
Approval of Town of Crawford and Town of Wallkill SRO Agreements
MOVED by Trustee Graessle, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:
RESOLVED, that the Superintendent is authorized to execute an agreement with the Town of Crawford and the Town of Wallkill for the purpose of facilitation and implementation of the School Resources Officer program for the 2020-2021 school year, in accordance with the agreement on file with the District Clerk.
Date: September 8, 2020
YES –5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Prior to the next action, conversation took place amongst board members with some comments from attendees in the audience. It was stated that this was not the public participation segment of the meeting.
Board to Amend the Agenda for Additional Item:
Acknowledge and Acceptance of MOA with the School Related Professional Association (PBSRPA)
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Meier, that the Board of Education amend the regular agenda
to include an additional item on the agenda for board action, for approval of the following resolution:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education (“Board”) of the Pine Bush Central
School District (“District”) does hereby acknowledge and accept the Memorandum of Agreement (associated with unit member lay-offs) the District and the School Related Professionals Association (“PBSRPA” ) dated September 8, 2020, as attached hereto; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board acknowledges that the Superintendent is appropriate to
Execute said agreement Between the District and the PBSRPA pursuant to the Memorandum of Agreement on file with the District Clerk.
Date: September 8, 2020
YES –3 NO – 0 Abstain -2 (Johnson and Graessle) MOTION NOT CARRIED
Approval of CSE & CPSE Placement Recommendations
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education acknowledge receipt and
acceptance of the Committee on Special Education and Committee on Preschool Special Education placement
recommendations as submitted by the CSE & CPSE Chairpersons, and reviewed by Trustee Meier.
YES –5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Approval of Participation in Personalized Learning Cohort
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:
RESOLVED, that the Pine Bush Central School District affirms its continued participation for the
2020-2021 school year in the National Cohort of Schools committed to implementing Personalized Learning, and be it further resolved that the Superintendent of Schools is authorized to affirm our commitment.
Date: September 8, 2020
YES –5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Update: Return to Learn Plan /Opening of School
Superintendent Tim Mains provide an update of our current school opening and Return to Learn plan. Presentation was interrupted due to technical difficulty. The content of the presentation available on the website included the following: Return to Learn Plan has had many changes since the planning began as follows:
Enormous Challenges:
• Transportation Issues
• Staffing Issues
• New enrollment; additional students home schooled
• Student Assignments
• Food Service Plan
• Storing Furniture
• Creating Guidance Documents
• Staff
• Families
Modified Plan:
• Start all virtual (some will remain all virtual)
• Sept. 21st
• PreK Hybrid begins
• Special Classes begin
• October 6th
• Hybrid K-6 begins
What Rules Do We Have to Follow:
• Make an effort to get kids into school.
• Screen staff and students who come to school
• Keep kids and staff socially distanced
• Avoid use of common supplies
• Be sure kids are fed (whether in school or not)
• Address equity gaps in technology
• Avoid crowds, even in large spaces
Broad Plan:
• Elementary and Middle School (grade 6)
• Hybrid OR All virtual. (parent choice)
• Both on A/B day schedule – 2 days with teacher; 3 days independent at home
• Split by geography (for Hybrid); keep kids in same family on same schedule
• Kids move together with their class or teachers come to them – cocooned
• High School: and Middle School (grades 7&8)
• All virtual initially
• Students follow their daily schedule to ensure structure; attendance taken
• Hope to bring in neediest kids for extra support, but limited time.
Broad Plan MS/HS:
• Middle School (grade 6)
• Hybrid OR All virtual. (parent choice)
• Both on A/B day schedule – 2 days with teacher; 3 days independent at home
• Split by geography; keep kids in same family on same schedule
• Day will likely start later OR end earlier on in-school days
• Kids move together with their class or teachers come to them – cocooned
• Middle School (grades 7&8) AND High School (9-12)
• All virtual initially
• Students follow their daily schedule to ensure structure; attendance taken
Maintain a Safe Environment:
• Daily health screenings
• Students
• Staff
• Complete a daily form or
• Be cleared on site
• Wear Masks / Face shields
• Protective Barriers
• Hand Hygiene
• Nightly cleaning
Maintain a Safe Classroom:
• Desks 6 feet apart
• Reserved teaching space
• Protective barriers as needed
• No shared cubbies or supplies
• Frequent hand hygiene
• Cocoon the kids
Address Social Emotional Concerns:
• AAP Position Paper:
• Not being in school may be more dangerous than being in school
• Need to balance:
• Physical health with
• Mental Health
• Provide staff training in Sept.
• Ramapo for Children
• Emphasize establishing relationships as school resumes
Current Efforts:
• Figure out who is/is not participating
• Reach out to determine why
• Work to get Chromebooks to students who still need them
• Develop in-person options for secondary schools
The presentation also included review of the following: Logistical Challenges and Meeting New Mandates.
In conclusion, Can It Change Again…….
• Can’t control what curve ball will be thrown next.
• Staffing issues could impact plan
• Spike in COVID cases in the region
• Further changes form DOH or Governor’s office
As noted initially, there were technical difficulties that impacted the complete delivery of this presentation.
Note: Cara Robertson joined the meeting remotely via google meet at approx. 7:39 PM)
Motion to Move to the 2020-2021 Staffing Report
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education approve moving on to the next presentation (Staffing Report), due to the technical difficulty of the School to Learn update.
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Presentation: 2020-2021 Staffing Report
The 2020-2021 Staffing Report, was presented by Angela Wise, Executive Director of Human Resource, Data,
and Counseling. The report presented consists of two (2) components:
☐ A chart providing a comparison of teacher/administrative staffing counts by tenure areas and buildings for the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 school years; and,
☐ A narrative report that provides the rationale for each increase and/or decrease within the specific tenure areas.
Angela Wise, Executive Director for Human Resources, Data and Counseling, presented the 2020-2021 Staffing
Report that consisted of two components (these items were included on the district website) as well as provided
to the board members through e-doc. Ms. Wise reviewed the numbers for the 2020-2021 school year in its
entirety. There were no questions offered by the board. Ms. Wise was thanked for her presentation.
Motion to Move to the Secondary Summer School Report (PBHS) -2020
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education approve continuing to move forward to the next presentation (Secondary Summer School 2020).
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Presentation: Secondary Summer School Report (PBHS) – 2020
Assistant Principals Brian Miros and Jennifer Evans were the Summer School Administrators for August 2020. Mr.
Miros presented a Secondary Summer School report, noting Ms. Evan was in attendance as well. Some of the
highlights of the PowerPoint presentation included the following:
Pine Bush High School Virtual Summer School:
Registration:
● Secondary Summer School Registration was available online through the Pine Bush Website using Google Forms from June 22nd-July 8th.
● School Counselors and Summer School staff assisted students and parents with registering for courses that would help students maintain and/or progress their academic standing.
● Using Google Sheets the information collected was used to build their schedule for the summer.
Course Offerings:
● Academic Courses were offered in: English, Social Studies, Algebra 1, Physical Education, Earth Science and Living Environment
● Gradpoint was also used for students to work independently: Forensics, math electives, English 12, Health were just some of the courses offered.
● Each class had a Special Education co-teacher assigned for students support as well.
Faulty:
● The 9-12 Secondary Summer School staff included All Pine Bush certified teachers.
● The Summer School Staff was assisted by 2 clerks
● The Summer School program was observed by Assistant Principals Brian Miros and Jen Evans.
Format:
● All Summer School classes were held virtually using Google Classroom, Goformative and other online resources.
● The regular school day Monday-Thursday consisted of three periods, each 120 minutes in length. Because of the flexibility with time, teachers were expected to hold synchronous learning and/or have contact with students during time online. Students worked on projects/assignments during the second hour.
Student Progress/Student Enrollment:
● Teachers were encouraged to make frequent parental and student contact via phone, email, synchronous instruction, Google Hangouts, and Google Meets. Progress reports were mailed home as well as final grades.
● Enrollment:
● Students: 152 Services: 232
● English 9: 17 Global 9: 14 Economics: 30 Earth Science: 10 Alg 1: 29
● English 10: 18 Global 10: 13 Government: 30 Living Environ: 23
● English 11: 9 US History: 5 Physical Ed: 6 Gradpoint: 25
August Graduation:
A Graduation ceremony was held on Wednesday August 12th, 2020 in the High School gymnasium and a celebration followed. 2 students graduated.
Summary:
The Summer School program was successful. This was a program that required creativity, flexibility and everyday reach out to students. The dedication and hard work that the staff put into helping create this program is a tribute to them and our students benefited.
Graduation for our seniors was a highlight!
In conclusion, Mr. Miros was thanked for the presentation.
Return to Learn Presentation Verbal Update:
Superintendent Mains continued with an update on the Return to Learn Plan and the current status to date.
He stated the Governor continues to change the rules. Just this Friday, schools were advised we were required to create dash board and post daily results of positive for covid students and staff, even though we are not testing. Further, the State Dept. of Health issued an explanation dash board to the districts with the expectation that we are to comply. This information came to our attention at approximately 2:30 PM. We also received a week and a half ago that the district’s aid has been cut, which reflects a 20% cut in our state aid over the course of this school year, less than we had expected. Because of the loss of state revenue (elimination of $12 million in state revenue), the district has scrambled to respond to how we will address expenses. Related to that, many (in attendance) are concerned about looking at staff members that are needed when students are present at a time that when we don’t have kids present, as well as, looking at what reductions we might implement to provide cost savings to offset the loss in revenue. The situation we are in is not one we would want to be in. Last year, the district was successful in maintaining all employees through June. Now into the new school year, we do not have the revenue to do that. The MOU (aka MOA) referenced earlier does not address a reduction in force. It was an agreement with SRPs pertaining to callbacks, and simply defines how it would work when calling back individuals. Superintendent Mains provided an explanation of the current actions taken (noting the contract required giving 30-days notice) and process moving forward pertaining to call backs. For clarity purpose, it was confirmed that the consent agenda and addition to the consent agenda abolished positions effective October 9, 2020. Mr. Mains continued on to address the MOU that did not get added to the agenda. The superintendent mentioned the district’s intent was follow the contract. A conversation ensued amongst several board members and the superintendent pertaining to the board actions for that evening.
Public Participation
The first public participation segment was open at approx. 8:27 PM requesting no personal references. Those
commenting must provide their name. Some of the following comments/questions/concerns were raised:
· Question regarding 10 week commitment for virtual vs. in person, as well as full return to school;
· Comments regarding abolishment of positions, why not furloughed instead of abolish, concern regarding unemployment (supt addressed);
· Comments regarding security guards, as well as students with special needs;
· Concern regarding…nobody is communicating enough with us;
· Several continued concerns regarding furlough vs. abolishment and its effect on unemployment;
· Question regarding re lay-offs, will we be able to check our email?
· Thanks offered for appreciative comments, however, feel there is lack of respect for TAs;
· Comment that they did not get any information, needed earlier notification;
· Comment offered, how many administrators are being abolished? That’s where the savings is;
· Comments regarding the value of TAs;
· Comments regarding SROs;
· Concern regarding implementation of IEPs
· Comment regarding Union busting;
· District is doing an injustice for children in the District and also to the employees;
· Comment – we need to come back and really reevaluate how we communicate with people;
· Continued comments regarding abolishment of positions/furlough/unemployment.
· Comment regarding why all materials not available in hard copy at meeting, note materials are posted on website.
· Question regarding closed caption;
· Question regarding shuttle.
In closing, the Board president stated the district is taking everything seriously and trying to do the best we can. We are appreciative of everyone showing up to express their comments and concerns.
Approval of Revised Board Policy Manual for First Reading
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve the updated
Board Policy Manual as submitted by Erie 1 BOCES in its entirety for First Reading.
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Board Confirmation of District FOIL Appeals Officer
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education confirm the
appointment of the Superintendent of Schools as the FOIL Appeals Officer (Freedom of Information Law) for the
2020-2021 school year.
Date: September 8, 2020
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Board of Adoption of Amended Retention and Disposition Schedule
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education approve the following
resolution for adoption:
RESOLVED, By the Board of Education of the Pine Bush Central School District that Retention and Disposition
Schedule for New York Local Government Records, issued pursuant to Article 57-A of the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law, and containing legal minimum retention periods for local government records, is hereby adopted for use by all officers in legally disposing of valueless records listed therein.
Date: September 8, 2020
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Upcoming Board Meetings, Events / Old, New Business / Updates
Our upcoming board meetings and events should be announced Tuesday evening.
The start time for the regular sessions of our board meetings – 7:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted.
Regular Board Meetings:
☐ Tuesday, September 22, 2020, 7:00 PM at Circleville Middle School
(also available by live stream via link at www.pinebushschools.org)
☐ Tuesday, October 13, 2020, 7:00 PM at Pine Bush High School
(also available by live stream via link at www.pinebushschools.org)
Other District Meetings:
☐ October 5, 2020, 5:30 PM at District Office Audit Committee Mtg.
☐ NYSSBA Annual Education Convention 2020 – Virtual Two Week Event
The virtual convention will be held over a two-week period, October 20-22 and October 27-29, 2020. The Annual Business Meeting will be held on October 31, 2020. Please advise Debbie June or Jayna McAteer (asap) if you plan to attend. Informational materials are included in your packet and can also be found on www.nyssba.org
Old/New Business:
Next meeting, the board needs to review the NYSSBA 2020 resolutions/position statements. Materials will be provided to the BOE.
A brief update was provided on Food Distribution, noting the first day 4,570 meals were distributed.
Business & Finance
Claims Auditor’s Reports
MOVED by Trustee Graessle, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education acknowledge
receipt and acceptance of the following Claims Auditor’s Reports as submitted:
☐ Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0010 dated 8/10/2020 payroll authorizing payments in the amount of $ 184,372.27
Trust and Agency (3 checks (004194-004196) $ 184,372.27
$ 184,372.27
☐ Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant #0011 dated 8/13/20 check run, authorizing payments in the amount of $ 1,901,226.06
Cafeteria Fund (9 checks 005369-005377) $ 26,819.25
Federal Fund Acct.(2 checks 002532-002537) 105,537.91
Capital Fund (1 check 001821-01823) 138,436.87
General Fund (77 checks 064443-064519) 1,630,432.03
Total $ 1,901,226.06
☐ Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant #0012 dated 8/19/20 check run, authorizing payments in the amount of $ 1,627,746.81
Cafeteria Fund (3 checks 005378-005380) $ 16,151.36
Federal Fund Acct.(3 checks 002538-002540) 53,052.83
Capital Fund (3 check 001824-01826) 1,410,190.65
General Fund (46 checks 064520-064565) 148,351.97
Total $ 1,627,746.81
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
District Treasurer’s Reports
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education acknowledge receipt and
acceptance of the following District Treasurer’s Reports for the periods of July 1, 2020 through July 31, 2020.
■ General Fund Reports:
Monthly Treasurer’s Reports / Transfers
Budget Status
■ Monthly Treasurer’s Reports / Budget Status for:
School Lunch Fund
Capital Fund
Federal Fund
■ Monthly Treasurer’s Reports for:
Trust & Agency Fund
District-wide Activity Fund
Student Activity Funds for: Pine Bush High School,
Circleville Middle School and Crispell Middle School
Expendable Trust Fund (Scholarships)
Academy of Finance
Human Services Academy
Debt Service
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Board Approval of Agreement for Special Education Services
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve the agreement for Special Education Services with Kiryas Joel UFSD for the 2020-2021 school year, and authorize the Board President to sign said agreement on behalf of the District.
Date: Sept. 8, 2020
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Authorization for Funding – Terms & Conditions of Employment for Occupational Therapy Assistant Services
MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education authorize the funding for
the Terms & Conditions of Employment between the Pine Bush Central School District and Krystle Augusta,
Occupational Therapy Assistant, noting the agreement covers the period retroactive from September 23, 2020
through June 30, 2024.
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Public Participation
The second public participation segment was open at approx. 9:53 PM requesting no personal references
No comments from the audience.
One question from a board member was offered inquiring as to the status of the district Facebook page as to when
we anticipate it be up and running. Per the superintendent, the Facebook page is moving forward and he would
check further with our Communications Representative..
Consideration of Executive Session
Hearing no matters for executive session, President Meier asked for a motion to adjourn.
Adjournment
MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education adjourn the regular meeting, noting the time at approx. 9:55 PM.
YES – 6 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Note: BOARD MEETINGS are video live recorded and Deborah A June (electronically signed/daj)
can be viewed at www.pinebushschools.org Deborah A. June, District Clerk Pine Bush CSD
(Disclosure: Minutes with be printed on numbered minute paper and placed in the district minute books).