WEBSTER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Webster, New York BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MINUTES REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING June 13, 2023 Members Present: J. Richardson-until 4:45 p.m., L. Dioguardi, M. Alt, C. Barnabas, J. Birdsong-Ng, S. LaDelfa, C. Roods arrived at 4:03 p.m. Members Absent: Administrators: B. Neenan, B. Freeman, R. Chalwell, E. Land, F. Leggett, A. Maillet, D. Swinson, Present: S. Strege, P. Benz, J. McEntee Liaisons Present: Sidney C., Hannah R., Lauryn W., Charisma F., J. Bardanas Others Present: A. Marley and C. Heinrich, Executive Session only, WWFD: B. Kelly, G. Moorhouse, B. Zimmer, WFD: A. Vorndran, S. Kozak, D. Andrews, T. Nespeca, K. Gebhardt, M. Prizzi, S. Miller CALL TO ORDER: The Tuesday, June 13, 2023 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by President J. Richardson in the 2nd Floor Professional Development Center, District Office, 119 South Avenue, Webster, NY at 4:00 p.m. There was a quorum. L. Dioguardi motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded to call the meeting to order. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: C. Roods. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded to enter Executive Session for the purpose of discussing collective bargaining negotiations. Board members moved into Executive Session at 4:02 p.m. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No. Absent: 1: C. Roods. Executive Session attendees: Board members, Mr. Neenan, Mr. Freeman, Ms. Land, Mr. Swinson, Ms. Marley, Ms. Heinrich. The June 13, 2023 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by Vice President L. Dioguardi at 5:01 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Professional Development Center. There was a quorum. S. LaDelfa motioned, M. Alt seconded to move out of Executive Session. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was examined and was amended as follows: A resolution was added to address Part 123 of the Commissioner’s Regulations re: the Use of Indigenous Names, Logos or Mascots Prohibited. M. Alt motioned, C. Barnabas seconded to approve the amended agenda. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Student Liaisons Sidney C. updated board members on activities at Schroeder, including a memorable senior trip to Camp Cory, flag football, track and field, spring concert, senior ball and junior prom. A senior parade will lead up to graduation day this Friday and students are very excited. Charisma F. updated board members on activities at Thomas. Within the past month they have enjoyed the senior ball, luminary walk and job fair. They held their first culture day and experienced different foods and attire. Senior awards celebrations and a senior parade were held. Lauryn W. updated board members on activities at Thomas including a fundraiser to celebrate Juneteenth, celebration of pride week and classic car show. Classes had an end of year celebration of staff. Hanna R. updated board members on activities at Webster Thomas including finishing an international service project to the Dominican Republic. Senior Titan service scholars shared what they learned in an exhibition. Congrats to our girls’ softball and flag football teams and boys track team. Vice President Dioguardi recognized senior student liaisons Audrey C.(absent)., Sidney C., Charisma F. and Hanna R. for their excellent and informative reports over the last year and wished them success in their future endeavors. They look forward to hearing Lauryn’s reports next year. Mr. Neenan recognized our board of education senior student liaisons. These articulate, incredibly smart young women are headed to college in the fall: Audrey to Carnegie Mellon; Sidney to St. John Fisher University; and Hannah to Pitt and Charisma to Lemoyne College.
Joan Bardanis, Webster Teachers Association liaison was thanked for her enthusiasm and passion for our students, WTA colleagues, and public education which is evident in every report shared. The board and I are thankful to have your insights represented at board meetings and can’t wait to see you again in the fall! Joan Bardanis, WTA liaison gave an update on WTA activities including thanking TJ Milliman, who does so much for our kids, the fun ways our students celebrate through learning, upcoming field days, chorus events, Willink spirit week, WTA teacher student swap day, Throwback Thursdays, WTA awarded scholarships, where five students won $1,000 scholarships. Professional development will look at creative ways to be cost effective with their funds. Recognition of First Responders Superintendent Neenan thanked the first responders for their invaluable help at the recent fire at Webster Schroeder High School for ensuring the safety of our students and staff. Throughout this challenging situation, our first responders provided immediate, professional assistance to the Schroeder community. We remain grateful for your steadfast support not only here in Webster CSD, but throughout the greater Monroe County community. Those recognized: Brian Kelly, District Chief West Webster Fire Department, Glen Moorhouse, 1st Assistant Chief, Brian Zimmer, Captain Andrew Vorndran, Chief Webster Fire Department, Steve Kozak, 2nd Assistant Chief, Dan Andrews, Captain NYSSBA Leadership Training Recognition Tom Nespeca, NYSSBA Treasurer, presented training certificates to board members: Linda Dioguardi for achieving 150 training points and Janice Richardson and Jennifer Birdsong-Ng for achieving 75 training points. Superintendent Report Superintendent Neenan congratulated the outstanding class of 2023 for their accomplishments during their time with us. We look forward to celebrating all of our seniors as commencement ceremonies begin this week. Mr. Neenan welcomed Shawn Strege and Paul Benz for an important update. Shawn and a few others have been doing research about the Schroeder Warriors nickname and mascot. We have learned a lot of history about the evolution of the Warriors name over the last few months. Mr. Strege and Mr. Benz shared the history of the early years of Webster high school. Schroeder had a brief history with the Lions logo. In 1985 when we shifted to one high school and we see “Warriors” and “W” with four stars in the logo throughout teams and clubs. History shows it has been blue and gold throughout but never has our logo depicted any insensitive images or of an indigenous character or logo. The New York State Education Department, along with the Board of Regents, asked all schools to review names, mascots and logos that may contain historical Native American names or images. A reminder was shared that school will be closed on Monday, June 19, in recognition of Juneteenth, a Federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Well wishes and thanks were shared with students, their families and staff. Math Grades 6-12 Instruction Report Presenters: J. McEntee, K. Gebhardt, M. Prizzi, S. Miller The report focused on an overview of grades 6-12 Math program. The department is tasked with developing number fluency in our scholars. We work with our students to fully develop mathematical concepts and ideas. One of our strengths of the programs is the belief that all students can be successful in our math program and our commitment to exposing students to challenging rigorous content. The results show students consistently rise to these challenges. We offer the most advanced placement, accelerated, dual credit courses. New this year was the arithmetic avengers pilot, where we linked up our senior students with 5th grade counterparts. There has been a great deal of learning for students and staff and we will revisit this program next year. M. Alt motioned, C. Barnabas, seconded to approve the Math Instruction Report. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson.
Resolution regarding Regulations of the Commissioner of Education re: Part 123 Use of Indigenous Names, Logos or Mascots Prohibited. RESOLVED Part 123 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education are not applicable to Webster Central School District’s mascot name, “Warriors;” or the district logos and the Warriors mascot and images have not had Indigenous associations. The Webster Central School District will maintain the logo, mascot, and team name of “Warriors,” unless and until an authorized representative of the New York State Education Department determines that the logo, mascot, or team name “Warriors” violates Part 123 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education and orders the discontinuance of the same. C. Barnabas motioned, S. LaDelfa, seconded to accept the resolution. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson Recognition of Mike Alt Vice President Dioguardi and Superintendent Neenan thanked Mike Alt for his outstanding service on the board. He was presented with a plaque from Monroe County School Boards Association. He was thanked for his years of service to Webster’s students, families, and staff members. His extensive professional background and business expertise has been an invaluable asset to us over the past few years. March and April 2023 Treasurer’s Reports and Quarterly Expenditure/Revenue Reports Mr. Freeman described the key items on the March and April 2023 Treasurer’s Reports and Quarterly Expenditure/Revenue reports.. S. LaDelfa motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the March and April 2023 Treasurer’s Reports and Quarterly Expenditure/Revenue Reports. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Estimated Reserve Transfers Mr. Freeman shared the projected reserve transfers between the 2022-23 unappropriated fund balance and reserve accounts as follows. 1. Capital Reserve Fund (A878) Estimated transfer not to exceed $5,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 2. Tax Certiorari Reserve (A864) Estimated transfer not to exceed $1,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 3. Worker’s Compensation Reserve (A814) Estimated transfer not to exceed $1,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 4. Liability Reserve (A862) Estimated transfer not to exceed $2,500,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 5. Retirement Contribution Reserve Fund (A827) Estimated transfer not to exceed $1,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 6. TRS Sub Fund (A827) Estimated transfer not to exceed $3,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. C. Barnabas motioned, J. Birdsong-Ng seconded to approve the projected reserve transfers. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Johnson Foundation Donation Acceptance Mr. Freeman reviewed the donation from the Alice and Edward Johnson Foundation to Schroeder High School in the amount of $10,000. The donation is intended to be used for the purchase of supplies and equipment to enhance the program at the school in addition to honoring several key staff members. M Alt, motioned, S.LaDelfa seconded to approve the $10,000 donation from the Alice and Edward Johnson Foundation. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Foundation Aid Report Mr. Freeman reviewed the 2023-2024 foundation aid plan and changes C. Roods motioned, J. Birdsong-Ng seconded to approve the foundation aid plan. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Bond Resolution for buses and Estoppel Notice Mr. Freeman described the bond resolution for buses. A Bond Resolution adopted by the Board of Education of the Webster Central School District on June 13, 2023 authorizes the issuance of bonds and other obligations to purchase and finance student transport vehicles, including necessary furnishings, fixtures and equipment and all other costs incidental thereto, at an estimated cost not to exceed $1,600,000, including necessary furnishings, fixtures and equipment and all other necessary costs incidental thereto, and to expend a total maximum estimated sum of $1,600,000, or so much as
may be necessary, and to pay for such student transportation vehicles by applying any available State aid and the levy of a tax for the balance of such costs upon the taxable property of the District to be collected in annual installments in the years and in the amounts as the Board of Education shall determine in accordance with Section 416 of the Education Law and, in anticipation of such tax, the District is authorized to issue up to $1,600,000 of obligations of the District and a tax is authorized to pay the interest on said obligations when due. Under the Local Finance Law, the Project has a period of probable usefulness of five (5) years. Such resolution shall be kept available for public inspection in the District Offices during regular business hours for twenty days following this publication. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, C. Barnabas seconded to approve the bond resolution and respective estoppel notice to be published in the Herald. A roll call vote was taken with all members voting yes. Roll Call: L. Dioguardi, M. Alt, C. Barnabas, J. Birdsong-Ng, S. LaDelfa, C. Roods Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Resolution approving a special meeting of the qualified voters of the Webster Central School District on October 11, 2023 and Proposition Resolution. Mr. Freeman described the proposition resolution and date of the special meeting. A Special Meeting of the qualified voters of the Webster Central School District will be held at the Webster Schroeder High School gymnasium located at 875 Ridge Road, Webster, New York, on October 11, 2023 from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, for the purpose of voting on the proposition described in the Notice of Special District Meeting hereinafter set forth for the purpose of voting on the following proposition: PROPOSITION Shall the Board of Education undertake a project consisting of the reconstruction and renovation of, and the construction of improvements, additions and upgrades to various District buildings and facilities and the sites thereof, the purchase of original furnishings, equipment, machinery and apparatus required in connection with the purposes for which such buildings, facilities and sites are used, all to include site, access, parking, athletic field and playfield improvements, demolition, utility, mechanical, plumbing and electrical improvements as well as payment of professional fees and all other necessary costs incidental to such work (the “Project”) at a total maximum estimated cost of $85,000,000 and to pay for the Project by (i) spending $10,000,000 on deposit in the District’s existing Capital Reserve Fund approved by the voters on May 17, 2016 and (ii) by the levy of a tax which is hereby voted in the amount of $75,000,000, subject to available State aid or to any other revenues available for such purpose, which tax shall be levied and collected in annual installments in such years and in such amounts as may be determined by the Board of Education and in anticipation of the collection of such tax, bonds and notes of the District are hereby authorized to be issued at one time, or from time to time, in the principal amount not to exceed $75,000,000, and a tax is hereby voted to pay the principal and interest on said obligations when due. C. Roods motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded to approve the resolution approving a special meeting of the qualified voters of the Webster Central School District on October 11, 2023 and proposition resolution. A roll call vote was taken with all members voting yes. Roll Call: L. Dioguardi, M. Alt, C. Barnabas, J. Birdsong-Ng, S. LaDelfa, C. Roods Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson Emergency Project Resolution – Schroeder Fire Mr. Freeman reviewed the resolution due to the fire at Webster Schroeder High School. Resolved, the Board has determined that the fire repair, replacement and reconstruction at Webster Schroeder High School is a Type II Action under the regulations of the State Environmental Quality Review Act, requiring no further review. The Board of Education hereby finds pursuant to the Education Law, the fire repair, replacement and reconstruction at Webster Schroeder High School is an Emergency Project necessary to preserve the health and safety of students and staff and for the protection of the school property; and that the project is an ordinary contingent expense. The maximum estimated cost of the Emergency Project as determined by LaBella Associates, the School District’s Architect, is approximately $1,000,000. The funding source for the project will be the General Fund balance and to the maximum extent possible, state building aid and insurance proceeds. The Superintendent of Schools and all officers and employees of the District are hereby authorized and directed to take all steps reasonably necessary or appropriate to complete the Emergency Project and to carry out the intent of this Resolution and to apply for any eligible state building aid and to recover any available insurance proceeds. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the Emergency Project Resolution. A roll call vote was taken with all members voting yes. Roll Call: L. Dioguardi, M. Alt, C. Barnabas, J. Birdsong-Ng, S. LaDelfa, C. Roods Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson BusPatrol Agreement and Resolution Mr. Freeman reviewed the purpose of the bus patrol agreement and resolution. The Board hereby acknowledges and approves the Monroe County School Bus Stop Arm Enforcement Program Opt-in Agreement made between Monroe County, the Webster Central School District, and BusPatrol America LLC, agrees to be bound by its terms, and authorizes the Superintendent or his designee to execute such agreement in the form approved by legal counsel. S. LaDelfa motioned, C. Barnabas seconded to approve the bus patrol agreement and resolution. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson.
BOCES Transportation Contract for 2023-2024. Mr. Freeman reviewed the BOCES Transportation contract for 2023-2024. M. Alt motioned, J. Birdsong-Ng seconded to approve the BOCES Transportation contract for 2023-2024. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Boulter Facility Rental Mr. Freeman reviewed the second amendment to the lease agreement. C. Barnabas motioned, J. Birdsong-Ng seconded to approve the second amendment to the lease agreement. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. 2023-2024 WCSD Safety Plan Approval The 2023-2024 safety plan hearing was opened up at the May 2, 2023 meeting and there have been no comments received over the last 30 days. Our plan is presented as is. Mr. Flood entertained questions by board members. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, C. Roods seconded to approve the 2023-2024 WCSD Safety Plan. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Tax Certiorari Resolution Mr. Freeman described the tax certiorari settlement resolution commenced by DiMarco. The Board of Education agrees to settle the tax certiorari proceeding commenced by DiMarco in accordance with the terms set forth above and in the form approved by Ferrara Fiorenza PC and hereby delegates to Ferrara Fiorenza PC the authority to execute such settlement documents. C. Barnabas motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded to approve the resolution settling the tax certiorari proceeding. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Approval of Association of Educational Office Professionals (AEOP) Labor Contract Mr. Freeman asked if there were any questions and there were none. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded to approve the AEOP labor contract. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Approval of Education Support Association (ESA) Labor Contract Mr. Freeman asked if there were any questions and there were none. C. Barnabas motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the ESA labor contract. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Approval of Webster Teachers Association (WTA) Labor Contract Mr. Freeman asked if there were any questions and there were none. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, C. Roods seconded to approve the WTA labor contract. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. First Reading of Student and Instruction Policies Linda Dioguardi reiterated the process the board is following regarding their review of policies at the workshop and prior to sending them to BOCES for editing. S. LaDelfa motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the first reading of the student and instruction policies. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Board Member Highlights Mike- Informed our PTSA that buildings and grounds has portable generators if needed for outside events. Charlie- It was a privilege to participate in the luminary walk and to see Webster’s first section V girls flag football. Jennifer- State Rd PTSA is this Thursday and Klem South is wrapping up, they just had their VIP dance. Shanna, Thankful for Thomas HS having “bravo” cards for kids. KN had a kindergarten concert. Carole- Attended the last Willink PTSA meeting. Appreciated all they do and the connection. Linda- Handed out lollipops at Schroeder and watched seniors receiving their caps and gowns.
Consent Agenda J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, C. Barnabas seconded to accept the Consent agenda as recommended by the Superintendent including Minutes: May 2, 2023 Regular Business Meeting, May 9, 2023 Workshop, May 16, 2023 Annual Election and Budget Vote, Personnel Actions: Certified Probationary, Certified Regular Substitute, Classified Appointments, Adjustments, Additional Assignments, Resignation, Resignation Appointed to New Position, Retirements, Tenure Appointments, Terminations, Recommendations of the Committee on Special Education Meetings 2022-2023 and 20232024 meetings, Recommendations of the Committee on Pre-School Special Education meetings, Coop Bids: Fresh Produce Supply, Natural Gas, Food Supply, Bread Supply, Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Supply, Lunch Paper and Plastic Supplies, Athletic Supplies, International Travel Approval. Vote: 6: Yes; 0: No; Absent: 1: J. Richardson. Visitor Speaking Time There were no speakers. ADJOURNMENT S. LaDelfa motioned, C. Barnabas seconded to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:15p.m. Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Borrino Lisa Borrino, District Clerk Pro Tem
All documents that are duly made a part of these minutes are kept in a supplemental file that corresponds to the date of this meeting.