WEBSTER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Webster, New York BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MINUTES REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING June 7, 2022 Members Present: Absent: Administrators Present: Liaisons Present: Others Present:
T. Gurowski, J. Richardson, M. Alt, J. Birdsong-Ng, L. Dioguardi, S. LaDelfa, M. Rigillo B. Neenan, B. Freeman via pre-recorded video, D. Swinson, C. Armstrong, E. Land, B. Powers, F. Leggett, T. McCarthy Brooke C., Michael R., Lauryn W., Charisma F., J. Bardanis C. Heinrich-Executive Session only, L. Hall, J. Riddell, T. Strining, D. Miller, Samantha V., Camron S., B. White, N. Vilinsky, C. Sanan
The Tuesday, June 7, 2022 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by President T. Gurowski in the Klem South Auditorium, 1025 Klem Road, Webster, NY at 4:46 p.m. There was a quorum. J. Richardson motioned, M. Rigillo seconded to enter Executive Session for the purpose of discussing proposed, pending, or current litigation and the superintendent’s evaluation. Board members moved into Executive Session at 4:47 p.m. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Executive Session attendees: Board members, Mr. Neenan, Mr. Swinson, and Ms. Heinrich. The June 7, 2022 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by President T. Gurowski at 6:02 p.m. in the Klem South Auditorium. There was a quorum. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to move out of Executive Session. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Student Liaisons Lauryn W. updated board members on activities at Webster Thomas including extending congratulations to seniors who participated in a luminary walk, a job fair, the Sources of Strength week challenges, and the Titans won baseball sectionals where Lauryn sang the National Anthem. Charisma F. updated board members on the history Regents test cancelation, the black and brown student union donation, an organized student walk out against gun violence on Publisher’s Parkway. Michael R. updated board members on activities at Schroeder including musicians are thrilled to be back to concerts, the junior prom at the Memorial Art Gallery, the senior ball at Casa Larga, award ceremonies, seal of biliteracy ceremony, and the mock DWI crash teaching safe driving practices. Brooke C. updated board members on activities at Schroeder including the summa breakfast celebration, senior trip and breakfast, open studio night showcasing student artwork, Unified basketball, luminary walk, etc. President Gurowski thanked Michael and Brooke for their years of being excellent student liaisons and presented them with a gift card from the board. Joan Bardanis, WTA liaison, brought the Ridiculous Writers book authored by elementary students in New York State. She reiterated on how happy all are to be back in person. May is mental health awareness month, the Sources of Strength program, concerts are in full bloom, middle school inquiry based learning, 6th grade science lessons on electrical circuits and magnets, the ocean inquiry, addressing pollution, field trips to the art museum, over 50 businesses participated in the job fair, Corning’s visit to WCSD’s adapted PE classes to learn what we do in Webster, alternative education planning celebrations and WTA’s 50 year anniversary. Superintendent’s Report/Campus News Mr. Neenan saluted our outstanding Class of 2022. Our entire district is proud of our Schroeder, Thomas, and GOAL seniors and their accomplishments. We look forward to celebrating with GOAL on June 15, Webster Schroeder on June 21, and Webster Thomas on June 24. Six Schroeder speakers and debaters competed over Memorial Day Weekend in a national speech and debate team tournament held in Washington D.C. Senior Ad H. was 1 point away from breaking out of preliminary rounds into final eliminations. Congratulations to the team!
A shout out to outstanding Young Entrepreneurs Academy – YEA! – participant, Schroeder senior Josh M. Josh finished in the top six during the YEA! Saunders Scholars National Competition. Thomas sophomore Lauryn W. beautifully sang the National Anthem prior to the One Webster baseball sectional finals at Frontier Field. Mr. Neenan gave an update on all of the sports team successes and wished teams heading to states the best of luck. Mr. Neenan introduced Francine Leggett, principal of Schlegel Road and Brian Powers, principal of Willink Middle School. Mrs. Leggett gave an elementary update including: DeWitt concert excitement, support for missing and exploited children riders, Klem North’s spring fundraiser where principals were on the roof for a day, Klem South held an assembly with BMX riders, kindergarten students are celebrating with the ABC countdown. Plank North is holding Bingo for Books, Plank South is enjoying their new library, their spring staff breakfast included retirees, the health moves mind event, artist Caleb Rubright taught students at State Road how to paint sidewalks in different languages to welcome people, Schlegel held a UPK “marathon”, a kindergarten rhyming celebration, and photos were shown of We are CREW, building leadership of students. Mr. Powers gave a secondary update including: new sectional titles for boys track and boys baseball, people dove in this spring and everything was well attended to maximize every day. High schools have graduation, junior prom, senior ball, senior trip and everyone looks forward to the senior parade on Monday. Congratulations to Schroeder girls softball and best of luck in Long Island. Speech and debate and YEA nationals, Willink and Spry’s 8th grade Niagara Falls trips last week, the final concert at Willink, awards night and the 20+ year celebration at Willink, unified basketball, semi-formals, charity kickball, OWL end of year celebrations, GOAL prom, and career days, etc. Superintendent Neenan recognized all principals and those who presented campus news this year. Webster Thomas Drama Club’s production of The Neighbors runs later this week. The Neighbors is a collection of short, one-act plays – all written by Thomas students. The performance will be on the new courtyard stage constructed by GeoTech students. Seal of Biliteracy Instruction Report Presenters: Leslie Hall, Brooke C., Camron S., Michael R., Samantha V. Terry McCarthy recognized Mrs. Hall for her incredible efforts along with many teachers and community members; she is the driving force behind the program. Students earn a seal from the New York State Board of Regents, an incredible feat, especially in light of the pandemic. It recognizes students who excel in their language skills in English and another world language. Students who successfully complete the requirements earn a stamp on their diploma and medal to be worn at graduation. They must reach a level of intermediate high, showing they have effective communication skills in reading, listening, speaking and writing in both English and their world language. Students complete a project portfolio and a written piece that must be organized and prove their skills. They participate in a question and answer session with a panel with people who speak the language, testing their interpersonal skills. Eighty-four (84) students earned their seals this year. Students shared what language they studied and their reasons for selecting it. This is an incredible academic achievement that will lead to success in their future. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the Instruction Report. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. BOARD BUSINESS: Message from President Gurowski The last few years have been very challenging as well as celebratory. We’ve had a very successful leadership transition, near completion of two capital projects, passed our annual budget, and a strong finish to the year. Everyone is thrilled and grateful to be in person again. Many districts, including ours, have experienced difficult meetings. Adherence to the district’s code of conduct and erroneous statements posted on social media have been problematic. I’d like to clarify a few points so that the corrections become part of the record. Neither I nor my husband own a company any longer; it was acquired in 2012 and we do not administer benefits for the district. I have never profited from my service nor served with a conflict of interest to this district. I spend a considerable amount of time responding to calls and emails to improve communication and understanding. As I leave I do so with an abundance of gratitude for the relationships I have. The importance of the relationship of board, superintendent and community is important in ensuring that district operations continue with as little disruption as possible. Public education is one of the greatest institutions this country has and exists for the benefit of all
children. I hope this board can continue the amazing work that goes on in the district and keeps supporting students and staff to move the district forward. I feel privileged to work with so many wonderful people. Recognition for Tammy Gurowski and Maria Rigillo Mr. Neenan thanked Tammy and Maria for their dedication to students, staff and community. Both share an unwavering commitment to public education. He expressed his thanks for Tammy’s caring attitude and availability to discuss district matters at all hours and days of the week. He has been fortunate to work alongside Maria while he was Principal at Willink. Maria’s heart always will be about students and she has done amazing things as an educator and board member. Vice President Richardson thanked Tammy and Maria for putting their heart and souls into everything they’ve done, sticking to their beliefs, the respectful conversations and education has been amazing. Tammy led the board well through two difficult years through the pandemic. Mike Alt shared how Maria speaks from the heart with honesty, integrity and sincerity, and it’s always about the kids. Tammy led with dignity, grace and perseverance and made sure our work was done. Countless hours were spent and she wore her heart on her sleeve and should be proud. Shanna LaDelfa spoke of their respectful, challenging conversations, her knowledge to bring people together with different ideas. She appreciates Tammy’s effort and wished her the best in the future. Jennifer Birdsong-Ng appreciates the different ways of looking at things, time and energy spent learning the ropes, rules, policies, decision making and trusting the board to do right by our district. Linda Dioguardi thanked both for giving tirelessly to our school community. Maria’s laughter, humor and ability to make everyone smile in a serious moment will be remembered. Tammy was thanked for bringing passion, insight, and experience to the table, and pushing to do and be better. Tom Strining expressed his appreciation for Maria who has made choice after choice, always for the good, focusing on students, teachers and anyone in the room. Maria has a nurturing soul bringing out the best in each of us. Tom Strining shared that Tammy has done good for people and quoted a saying, “you should do good for people, not for what they will do in return for you, but for who you are”, and she does it well because of who she is. He commented on their years working together when Tammy volunteered. Tom thanked former board member Sue Casey, who was in the audience, for her role on the board and the many committees she sat on and the huge role she played. “Travel lightly on this earth and leave your footprints in the deeds you’ve done.” March and April 2022 Treasurer’s Reports Mr. Freeman participated via a prerecorded video and described the key items on the March and April 2022 Treasurer’s Reports. M. Alt motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the March and April 2022 Treasurer’s Reports. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Internal Audit Approval and Corrective Action Plans Mr. Freeman described the internal audit prepared by Bonadio and Co., LLP on the risk assessment annual update and examination of Human Resources processes and corrective action plans. S. LaDelfa motioned, L. Dioguardi seconded to approve the internal audit and corrective action plans. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Standardization Resolution Mr. Freeman explained the standardization resolution. BE IT RESOLVED, as follows: 1. It is hereby determined that for reasons of economy and efficiency, including, but not limited to, district facilities particularly adapted to current functionality that cannot be converted economically, training of staff, inventory management, dealing with a single vendor for all service operations, that the following items will be purchased from the vendors listed next to their name: a. Access controls, Day Automation vendor, equipment/software is Avigilon, b. Audio entry, Day Automation vendor, equipment is Aiphone, c. Base and floor tile, Armstrong, d. Boiler/cooling tower water treatment, Metro Group, e. Boilers, Fulton, f. Camera systems FLIR-DVTEL, JCI Johnson Controls, g. Chillers, Daikin, h. Door Closers, LCN or Norton, i. Door hardware, Best Access j. Drinking fountains, Elkay, k. Electrical distribution, Square D, l. Exist hardware, Precision Hardware, m. Fire alarm system, Johnson Controls, n. HVAC controls, Day Automation vendor, equipment/software is Avigilon, o. HVAC drives, Square D, p. Intrusion detection, Day Automation
vendor, equipment is Bosch, q. Lighting, Lithonia, r. Network access points, Cisco ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE: 119 South Avenue, Webster, s. Network phones, Cisco, t. Network rack enclosure, Middle-Atlantic, u. Paging System, BOGEN, v. Playground materials, GameTime, w. Pumps, Bell & Gossett 2. M. Rigillo motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the standardization resolution. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. First Reading Policy 4010 District Investments Mr. Freeman described the Policy change and the proposed addition. J. Birdsong-Ng motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the first reading of Policy 4010 and move it forward for a second reading. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. NYCLASS Investment Resolution Mr. Freeman explained the reasoning around the NYCLASS Investment resolution. BE IT RESOLVED as follows: The Board hereby authorizes the School District to join NYCLASS as a cooperative participant, to enter into the NYCLASS municipal cooperative agreement in the form approved by legal counsel, and invest funds in NYCLASS, in order to earn higher interest rates on those funds. This resolution shall take effect immediately. J. Richardson motioned, M. Rigillo seconded to approve the NYCLASS resolution. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Projected Reserve Transfers Mr. Freeman shared the projected reserve transfers between the 2021-22 unappropriated fund balance and reserve accounts as follows. 1. Capital Reserve Fund (A878) Estimated transfer not to exceed $4,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 2. Tax Certiorari Reserve (A864) Estimated transfer not to exceed $500,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 3. Worker’s Compensation Reserve (A814) Estimated transfer not to exceed $1,500,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. 4. Liability Reserve (A862) Estimated transfer not to exceed $2,000,000 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 $1,000,000 into the reserve from unappropriated fund balance. M. Alt motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the projected reserve transfers. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Tax Certiorari Resolution , CE Webster LLC and David Christa (“CE Webster”) Mr. Freeman described the tax certiorari settlement resolution. BE IT RESOLVED that: The Board of Education agrees to settle the tax certiorari proceedings commenced by CE Webster in accordance with the terms set forth and in the form approved by Ferrara Fiorenza PC and hereby delegates to Ferrara Fiorenza PC the authority to execute such settlement documents. J. Richardson motioned, L. Dioguardi seconded to accept the terms of the settlement agreement as recommended by our attorneys. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Bond Resolution and Estoppel Notice The District is hereby authorized to purchase the Vehicles together with such furnishings, equipment, machinery and apparatus as may be required for the purposes for which the Vehicles are to be used and to expend therefor an amount, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to financing thereof, not to exceed the estimated maximum cost of $1,687,500, and said amount is hereby appropriated therefor. The estimated total cost of said specific objects or purposes, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and the financing thereof, is $1,687,500 and the plan of financing includes the issuance of serial bonds in the aggregate principal amount not to exceed $1,687,500 to finance said appropriation and the levy and collection of taxes on all the taxable real property in the District to pay the principal of said bonds and the interest thereon as the same shall become due and payable, subject to applicable amounts of state assistance available or to any revenues available for such purpose from any other source. J. Richardson motioned, M. Rigillo 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. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No.
2022-2023 WCSD Safety Plan Approval The hearing was opened up at the May 3 meeting and there have been no comments over the last 30 days. Our plan is presented as is. Mr. Flood entertained questions by board members. J. Richardson motioned, M. Rigillo seconded to accept the 2022-23 Safety Plan as presented. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Board Reports School Liaison Reports Maria Rigillo reported that DeWitt held an open house in conjunction with a carnival, they will hold a spirit day/superhero day, field day is June 17, and the need to fill PTSA positions. Willink’s 6th graders enjoyed a day at Niagara Falls, the 8th grade breakfast is June 10, and congratulations were extended on Willink’s 20 year anniversary. Spry needs a fundraising chair next year. Thanks to all Webster PTSAs for making all staff and teachers feel very appreciated. President Gurowski also extended thanks to all the PTSAs for their outstanding work, especially for keeping families engaged while remote. Monroe County School Boards Association President Gurowski reported that planning is taking place and surveys will be administered for goal setting next year. Standing District Committees Vice President Richardson reported that Policy Committee has divided up the manual, first readings by section will begin in August and the goal is to have the entire manual approved by May 2023. President Gurowski extended thanks to Mr. Freeman for engaging the community differently this year with respect to the budget. President Gurowski reported that Strategic Planning committee looks forward to next week’s workshop to review the survey results and use the data to set goals. Consent Agenda L. Dioguardi motioned, J. Birdsong-Ng seconded to accept the Consent agenda as recommended by the Superintendent including Minutes: May 3, 2022 Regular Business Meeting, May 10, 2022 Workshop, May 17, 2022 Annual Election and Budget Vote, May 24, 2022 Workshop, June 1, 2022 Executive Session, Personnel Actions: Classified Probationary, Certified Regular Substitute, Classified Appointments, Adjustments, Additional Assignments, Leaves of Absence, Resignation, Resignation Appointed to New Position, Retirements, Terminations, Tenure Appointments, Recommendations of the Committee on Special Education Meetings 20212022 and 2022-23 meetings, Recommendations of the Committee on Pre-School Special Education meetings, Coop Bids: Music Equipment and Supplies, Natural Gas, Beverage Supply, Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Supply, Milk and Juice Supply, Bread Supply, Food Supply, Fresh Produce Supply, Appointment of Member to the Committee on Special Education. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Visitor Speaking Time Samantha V. expressed her concerns about the lack of inclusivity toward the LGBTQ+ community in our schools and district. ADJOURNMENT J. Richardson motioned, M. Rigillo seconded to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m. Vote: 7: Yes; 0: No. Respectfully submitted,
Cynthia Cushman Cynthia Cushman, District Clerk
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.