Date: October 23, 2018
Board of Education
REGULAR MEETING at Circleville Middle School
Members Present:
- Kristin Graessle
- Dori Johnson
- Kristi Kheiralla
- Cara Robertson
- Ross Tompkins
Members Absent:
- Lloyd Greer, Jr. President
- Gretchen Meier, Vice President
Others Present:
- Tim Mains, Superintendent of Schools
- Donna Geidel, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction
- Michael Pacella, Assistant Superintendent for Business
- Deborah June, District Clerk
- Approximately 39 residents/students/staff members
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Trustee Johnson with the following motion offered:
MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education open the regular meeting at approximately 6:17 PM.
YES – 5 NO – 0 CARRIED
Consideration of Executive Session
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education adjourn to executive session at approximately 6:18 PM, discussion regarding potential contract and matters related to current litigation.
YES – 5 NO – 0 CARRIED
MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education adjourn executive session and return to regular session at approximately 7:22 PM.
YES – 5 NO – 0 CARRIED
Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance
The Board of Education resumed the regular meeting noting the time at approx. 7:26 PM. Trustee Johnson welcomed those in attendance and requested all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Recognition: SCHOOL BOARD
Superintendent Tim Mains Mr. Mains announced that Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, proclaimed October 22 – 26, 2018 as SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK in the Empire State.
The Pine Bush Board of Education was recognized for their continued service to the Pine Bush CSD. Mr. Mains read the following Governor’s proclamation and acknowledgment of the Board of Education.
State of New York – Executive Chamber Governor’s Proclamation
“Whereas, each year, School Board Recognition Week is observed by the more than 700 School boards in school districts throughout the Empire State; and
Whereas, our state’s public education system is designed to meet the educational needs of all children and to empower them to become competent, productive contributors to society and an ever-changing world; and
Whereas, members of local school boards are dedicated to children, learning, and community, and devote many hours of service to elementary and secondary public education as they continually strive for improvement, excellence, and progress in education, recognizing that all children can be successful learners, especially when education is tailored to the individual needs of the child; and
Whereas, local school boards members are strong advocates for public education and are responsible for communicating the needs of the school district to the public, and the public’s expectations to the district, by working closely with parents, educational professionals, and other community members to create the educational vision we all hold for today’s students and those in the future; and
Whereas, the members of the New York State’s local school boards responds to the educational need of the communities they serve and help ensure the solid foundation of our school system; in doing so, these leaders help strengthen our state’s educational system and improve future prospects for our children; and
Whereas, during October 22 – 26, 2018, special activities and programs will be held in communities across New York State in observance of School Board Recognition Week and it is fitting to join in acknowledging their commitment and contributions of members of local school boards;
Now, Therefore, I, Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim October 22 – 26, 2018 as School Board Recognition Week in the Empire State.”
In recognition of the Board of Education, one student from each Pine Bush CSD building attended to present each board member with a bouquet of flowers and thank them for their service. The following students participated in this presentation:
- Gabriel Girault
- Dane Gentles
- Jackson Schultz
- Jillian Masci
- Daniel Green
- Alessandra Pierpoint
- Joseph Crawford
The next presentation was offered by the Pine Bush Administrators’ Association. President Aaron Hopmayer and Treasurer Lisa Hankinson presented the board members with a gift and many thanks for their service.
At the conclusion of the recognition, the Board of Education took a brief recess to the cafeteria for refreshments, all were invited to attend. The following motion was offered.
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education take a brief recess, noting the time at approx. 7:33 PM.
YES – 5 NO – 0 CARRIED
Upon return, with all board members in consensus, Trustee Johnson resumed with the regular session, noting the time at approx. 7:47 PM.
Approval of Minutes
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the minutes from the October 9, 2018 regular board meeting and special meeting on October 15, 2018 as submitted by the District Clerk.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Reports, Recommendations of the Superintendent of Schools
Consent Agenda
MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education approve the following Consent Agenda and Addition** to the Consent Agenda as submitted by the Superintendent of Schools:
Creation
Instructional
Board authorization to create the following position:
One (1) Counseling Coordinator, part-time position, effective for the 2018-2019 school year, with an annual stipend of $5,012.
Resignations
Non-Instructional
Elizabeth Gordon, resignation from her position as a 7.0 hours/day Assistant Cook, effective at the close of business October 23, 2018.
Appointments
Instructional
Nicole Smirnoff, who holds a Permanent certificate in School Psychologist, be appointed to the position of a 1.0 FTE School Psychologist in the tenure area of School Psychologist for a four year probationary period commencing November 26, 2018 and ending November 25, 2022. Salary MA30, Step 6 of salary schedule (pro-rated).
Non-Instructional
Elizabeth Gordon, probationary appointment of as a full-time 10/month Cook, effective October 24, 2018 at an annual salary as per contract (pro-rated).
Diane Higgins, increase in hours (from 3.0 hours/day) to a 3.5 hours/day probationary position of Food Service Helper, effective October 24, 2018, salary as per contract (pro-rated).
Lisa Iannella, increase in hours for (from 3.0 hours/day) to a 3.5 hours/day position of Food Service Helper, effective October 24, 2018, salary as per contract (pro-rated).
Angelena Arrison probationary appointment as a full-time 12/month year Custodial Worker, effective October 24, 2018, salary as per contract (pro-rated), noting she is certified for such appointment through the Orange County Department of Human Resources.
Co-Curricular
Board approval of the following co-curricular appointment for the 2018-2019 school year at the amended co-curricular stipend:
Circleville Middle School:
- Nancy Paone, Grade 6 Team Leader, Level II, Step 5 (5)
Sixth-Period Assignment
Board approval for the appointment of the following instructional staff members teaching a sixth period/additional teaching assignment for the 2018-2019 school year at an annual contractual stipend as per contract:
Crispell Middle School
- Terese Chaikin
- Russell Hennig
- Matthew Schomber
Pine Bush HS-STARS
- Christine Guarino
Co-Curricular
Sixth-Period Assignment**
Pine Bush High School
Board approval for the following instructional staff member teaching a sixth period/additional Assignment for 2018-2019 school year as noted* at an annual contractual stipend of $5,500 pro-rated:
- Christopher Moll* Special Education (effective through October 11, 2018 pro-rated).
Sixth-Period Assignment** (.5)
Board approval of the following instructional staff members teaching a .5/ sixth period/additional assignment for the 2018-2019 school year (or as noted)* at an annual contractual stipend (.5) of $5,500:
- Claire Licata, Reading
Extra-curricular
Pine Bush HS
Board approval of the following co-curricular appointments for the 2018-2019 school year at the appropriate co-curricular stipends, effective September 26, 2018.
- Neil Lisberg, Polaris Club Advisor @ Level IV, Step 1 (1) Schedule D prorated.
- Patrick Reiser, Polaris Club Advisor @ Level IV, Step 1 (1) Schedule D prorated.
Interscholastic
Board approval of the following interscholastic winter coaching appointments for the 2018-2019 school year at the appropriate interscholastic stipends:
Boys Indoor Track:
- Al Schmidt, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (36)
- Anthony DiMarco, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 3 (3)
- Joseph Parise, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 1 (1)
Girls Indoor Track:
- Gerald Risco, Varsity Coach @ Level I , Step 10 (28)
- Melissa Schueler, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (11)
- Rebecca Torre, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 1 (2)
Cheerleading
- Dayna Dwyer, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 1 (1)
- Angela Tana, Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 1 (2)
Swim / Dive
- Kevin Blackwell,** Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step10 (16)
- John Barth, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 15 (16)
- Chris Blackwell,** Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (18)
Boys Basketball
- Stephen DiStefano, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (16)
- Daniel Conley, Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (15)
- Derrick Frost,** Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 1 (1)
- Robert Lawrence, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 3 (4)
- James DiStefano, Volunteer/Unpaid Coach
Girls Basketball:
- Michelle Bouffard,** Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 1(1)
- Elizabeth Valdez,** Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 1(1)
- Kimberly Craft, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 1 (2)
Boys Wrestling:
- Richard Ormsby, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (12)
- Patrick Sause, ** Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 3(4)
- John Petrofsky, ** Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 1 (1)
** Pending completion of coaching requirements/coaching license
Continuing Education
Approval of the following high school students for instructors, assistants, counselors or lifeguards for continuing education courses for the 2018/2019 school year. All classes and salaries are contingent upon enrollment.
STUDENT NAME CLASS/POSITION PAY
Sierra DeGeorge Lifeguard $12-$14/hour
Samantha Hufcut Lifeguard $12-$14/hour
Aidan Kane Lifeguard $12-$14/hour
James Yelle Lifeguard $12-$14/hour
Per Diem Substitutes
Board approval for the appointment of the following individuals as per diem substitutes effective October 24, 2018 at board approved per diem substitutes rates:
- Olga Babijtchouk
- Cameron Hadden
- Michaeline Jablonski
- Harley Putzer
- Madai Ramjeet
- Tara Rich
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
CSE and CPSE Placement Recommendation
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve all IEPs of the Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education as submitted by the CSE and CPSE Chairperson and reviewed by Trustee Johnson.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Designation of 2018-2019 CSE Committee Member
MOVED by Trustee Graessle, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve the designation of the following additional individual as a member of the Committee on Special Education (CSE) for the 2018-2019 school year. (Special education teacher members of the CSE also serve as the special education teacher members of the CSE Subcommittee in their respective buildings. School psychologists will continue to serve as Subcommittee Chairpersons in their respective buildings).
Committee on Special Education Members:
School Psychologist/Subcommittee Chairperson:
- Nicole Smirnoff (effective 11/26/2018)
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
No Place for Hate – Promise and Resolution of Respect
Assistant Superintendent Donna Geidel read the No Place for Hate Promise and Resolution of Respect for the reaffirmation and commitment. The Board of Education was asked to take action on the following as submitted.
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education reaffirm its commitment to the “No Place for Hate Promise and approve the following “Resolution of Respect,” for adoption as submitted:
No Place for Hate Promise
I PROMISE, to do my best to treat everyone fairly.
I PROMISE, to do my best to be kind to everyone — even if they are not like me.
IF I SEE someone being hurt or bullied, I will tell a teacher.
EVERYONE should be able to feel safe and happy in school.
I WANT OUR SCHOOL to be No Place for Hate.
Resolution of Respect
We pledge from this day forward to do our best to combat prejudice and to stop those who violate someone’s civil rights. We will seek to understand those who are different. We believe that one person can make a difference and that no person should stand by when it comes to opposing hate. We will speak out against prejudice and discrimination. We will reach out to those who are victims of hate. We know that we must all promote harmony, equality, and respect. By signing the pledge, we commit ourselves to creating a community that is No Place for Hate.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Roll Call Vote
K. Graessle Yes R. Thompson Yes
C. Robertson Yes K. Kheiralla Yes
D. Johnson Yes
Final Approval of Town of Wallkill SRO Agreement
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that the agreement with the Pine Bush Central School District and the
Town of Wallkill for the purpose of facilitation and implementation of the School Resources Officer program for the 2018-2019 school year, is hereby approved in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agreement on file with the District Clerk, and the Superintendent is hereby authorized to execute the Agreement on behalf of the Board of Education.
Date: October 23, 2018
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Public Participation
Trustee Johnson, opened the first public participation at approx. 8:00 PM requesting no personal references. No comments/questions/concerns were raised.
Approval of Overnight Trip Request
MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Robertson, that the Board of Education approve the following overnight trip request:
Overnight trip request submitted by Robin Evans, music teacher, on behalf of one (1) music student to travel to Rochester, NY to compete in the 2018 All-State Music Festival during the NYSSMA Winter Conference. The dates of the trip would be Thursday, November 29, 2018 through Sunday, December 2, 2018. One student and one chaperone will attend, providing a 1:1 student/chaperone ratio. The approximate student cost is $500.00 (all inclusive for housing, food, and registration fees) which is being paid by the Music Guild. Transportation is being covered by OCMEA to the festival. There will be no out-of-pocket expense for the music student.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Approval of Amended Policy for First Reading
Amended Policy 6121
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve amended Policy 6121 for first reading:
Amended Policy 6121 – Sexual Harassment of District Personnel.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Designation & Disposition of Surplus Library Books
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education designate and approve disposition of the following surplus library books:
Library books as submitted at the request of Lisa Metz, LMS, and John Boyle, Crispell Middle School Principal, as outdated and/or in poor condition, therefore, unusable in accordance with Policy #5250
SUBJECT: Disposition of Surplus Property, and authorizes the disposition of the books submitted under the direction of Michael Pacella, Assistant Superintendent for Business.
(List to be attached to the minutes).
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Upcoming Board Meetings, Events / Old, New Business / Updates
Upcoming board meetings and events were 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, November 13, 2018, 7:00 PM at Pine Bush HS School
- Tuesday, November 27, 2018, 7:00 PM at Circleville Middle School
Special District Meeting:
- Thursday, December 6, 2018, Special District Meeting – Bond Proposition
- Polls Open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Polling Sites / Residents of:
- Crawford & Montgomery – Pine Bush High School
- Gardiner & Shawangunk – Walker Valley Fire House
- Mt. Hope & Wallkill – Circleville Elementary School
- Mamakating – Bloomingburg Town Park
Upcoming Events:
- NYSSBA’s 99th Annual Convention & Education Expo in New York, NY
Thursday, October 25, 2018 through Saturday, October 27, 2018.
Wednesday, November 7, 2018, 7:00 PM
- OCSBA Delegates’ Meeting at Middletown HS
Program: STEM – Sharing Best Practices
Old/New Business
- Trustee Kheiralla provided further update regarding resolutions #3 and #8 relative to the upcoming NYSSBA Convention;
- Superintendent mentioned Ken Marshall (accompanied by Aaron Hopmayer) will represent Pine Bush at the next upcoming OCSBA meeting on November 7, 2018 regarding STEM.
- Several board members commented on the successful Pine Bush HS Homecoming dance, great time;
- Board member offered thanks to Debbie June and Lyn Prestia for organizing the board recognition/reception.
- All Night Graduation meeting on November 5, 7 PM at PBHS;
- Public Hearing will be held regarding Bond Proposition on November 13, 2018, 7 PM at Pine Bush HS.
- Superintendent provided updates as follows:
- Central administrators have several informational meetings scheduled at various locations regarding the Bond Proposition. The content of the postcard was approved and listed meeting locations provided. Some meetings to include but not limited to the PTA, Faculty, Fire Departments, Volunteer Ambulance, and Senior Citizens.
- The Strategic Plan booklet is completed for display and dissemination;
In addition to the School Board Recognition week, it is Red Ribbon week and Pine Bush is the host for the kick-off County-wide. Board member added that the kick off was excellent and the choir was fantastic
Business & Finance
Claim Auditor’s Reports
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve acknowledge receipt and acceptance of the following Claims Auditor’s Reports as submitted:
Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0019 dated 9/28/2018 authorizing payments in the amount of $1,083,361.43
Cafeteria Fund (9 checks 004657-004665) $ 7,442.49
HS Activity Fund (2 checks 0036995-003696) $ 7,874.77
Trust & Agency Acct. (0 Checks) $ 95.41
Federal Fund Acct. (1 check 002387) $ 127.20
Capital Fund (6 checks 001732-001737 $ 140,225.78
General Fund (44 checks 054997 -055040) $ 925,340.53
District Activity AC (5 checks 004431-004435) $ 2,255.25
Total $ 1,083,361.43
Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0020 dated 9/30/2018 payroll authorizing payments in the amount of $156.60
Trust & Agency Acct. (0 checks) $ 156.60
Total $ 156.60
Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0021 dated 10/5/2018 authorizing payments in the amount of $1,871,980.85
Cafeteria Fund (5 checks 004666-004670) $ 11,935.49
Crispell SAF (2 checks 002255-002256 $ 458.38
HS Activity Fund (2 checks 003697-003698) $677.58
Federal Fund (3 checks 002388-002390) $ 7,060.24
General Fund (112 checks 055041 -055152) $ 1,850,071.10
District Activity AC (3 checks 004436-004438) $ 1,778.06
Total $ 1,871,980.85
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
District Treasurer’s Report/Cash Flow Projection
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education acknowledge receipt and acceptance of the following District Treasurer’s Report/Cash Flow Projection for the period September 1, 2018 through September 30, 2018.
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 – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Approval of SCAR Assessment Reduction Decisions
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following property tax refund based upon Small Claim Assessment Review (SCAR) decision authorizing reduction of the assessment:
Town of Mamakating
Name School yr S-B-L Old Assessment New Assessment Refund Amt.
Sean & Catherine Moore 2018-2019 23.-1-41.19 $215,000.00 $153,000.00 $ 2,280.10
99 Boniface Drive, Pine Bush, NY 12566
Total Refund: $ 2,280.10
YES – 4 NO – 0 Abstain – 1 (K.Graessle) MOTION CARRIED
Public Participation
Trustee Johnson, opened the second public participation at approx. 8:35 PM requesting no personal references. No comments/questions/concerns were raised.
Consideration of Executive Session
Hearing no matters for executive session, Trustee Johnson called for a motion for adjournment.
Adjournment
MOVED by Trustee Robertson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education adjourn the Board of Education meeting, noting the time at approx. 8:36 PM.
YES – 5 NO – 0 MOTION CARRIED
Note: Board meetings are video recorded and can be viewed at www.pinebushschools.org.
Deborah A. June, District Clerk
Pine Bush CSD