WEBSTER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Webster, New York BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MINUTES April 14, 2022 Members Present: Absent: Administrators Present: Others Present:
T. Gurowski, J. Richardson, M. Alt, J. Birdsong-Ng-via Google Meet Executive Session only, L. Dioguardi, S. LaDelfa J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo B. Neenan, B. Freeman, D. Swinson, C. Armstrong, E. Land M. Riddell, J. Riddell, M. Riddell, R. J. Grenier, J. Siwik, L. White, illegible
The April 14, 2022 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by President T. Gurowski in the Webster Schroeder High School Auditorium, 875 Ridge Road, Webster. The meeting opened at 4:45 p.m. There was a quorum. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to enter Executive Session for the purpose of discussing the employment history of a particular person or corporation. Board members moved into Executive Session at 4:45 p.m. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Attendees: T. Gurowski, J. Richardson, M. Alt, J. Birdsong-Ng via Google Meet, L. Dioguardi, S. LaDelfa, B. Neenan, D. Swinson, E. Land, C. Armstrong. The April 14, 2022 Regular Business meeting of the Webster Board of Education was called to order by President T. Gurowski at 5:03 p.m. There was a quorum. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. L. Dioguardi motioned, J. Richardson seconded to move out of Executive Session. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. The agenda was examined and remained as stated. Liaison Reports Schroeder student liaison Michael R. gave an update on Schroeder activities including One Warrior week with great activities including annual switch day where seniors became teachers, ninety-five students will receive the seal of biliteracy on their diploma, earth science class activities, NHS and NAHS induction ceremonies took place, cards were made for families being helped by the Ronald McDonald House, Schroeder theater company will perform Secret Garden. Superintendent Neenan recognized Michael R. for being named outstanding senior at Schroeder, and Chloe H. was recognized for being named outstanding senior at Thomas. WTA liaison Joan Bardanis shared that teachers provide opportunities for students to excel. Elementary classes are working on “Ridiculous Writers”, where students submitted stories under 100 words and some of our students’ work has been published, the March Madness book event, an ocean life project while the library is under construction, science and studio arts clubs purchased birch trees with fundraising money and students will be planting them on the Five Mile Line side, and Schroeder GeoTech and WTA members built squirrel picnic tables. INSTRUCTIONAL REPORTS Superintendent’s Report Superintendent Neenan reported that for the 17th time, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation has named our district as one of the Best Communities for Music Education! We’re so proud of our outstanding music education program and staff here in Webster – congratulations! Thanks were extended to the Webster Central PTSA for bringing Community Arts Day back to Webster Schroeder It was wonderful having this celebration of the arts and community back in person. We are thankful for the countless volunteer hours of PTSA’s Community Arts Day Committee, our district’s fine arts and music educators, and our talented students who made the day so memorable. Mr. Neenan was impressed by the “Little Shop of Horrors” performance. Superintendent Neenan introduced Laura Ballou, principal of Klem North representing our elementary schools, and Ari Halaris, administrator for our One Webster Learning Center – OWL – high school program, representing our secondary schools.
Laura Ballou reported that Klem North’s students shared tips for her to use in her presentation. Students show and talk about CARE lessons every day and earn CARE cash. Pictures were shown of organizers of a community outreach collecting donations for Ukraine. Fourth and Fifth grade leaders run the morning show in its entirety. Respect is discussed daily by celebrating individualism, how we are unique and different. Students are “busted” for being awesome and parents receive a phone call home praising their child. Board members, Mr. Neenan and Ms. Land participated in ninja games, when they visited Klem North. A video was shown of what elementary students look forward to after returning from break, including a therapy dog, field day, fun run, coffee shop, PE, concerts, etc. Ari Halaris reported that Spry celebrated music in our schools and art month, a successful Matilda Jr. musical, their Science Olympiad team took 4th place. Willink hosted a dance for 7 & 8th grade students where over 300 attended and a 6th grade dance will take place in May. Students cast and directed a play, An Act of Piracy, with two successful performances, One Warrior week was held at Schroeder and included aspects of the Sources of Strength program, Thomas’ Little Shop of Horrors performance was a huge success, students formed a black student union, OWL middle school celebrated family week and a Minute to Win It game, GOAL held a pancake breakfast and made tie die t-shirts, OWL high school students are readying for exams and some students cleaned the grounds at Thomas. Students are building Adirondack chairs with Mr. Tuchrello in the Tech program. Superintendent Neenan extended well wishes to students for the upcoming spring recess. All students are off beginning tomorrow and we look forward to welcoming them back to school on Monday, April 25. Thomas student liaison Lauryn W. reported that AP exams begin May 2, students are excited for the start of prom and ball season, she wished everyone an awesome break. Congratulations were extended to students and staff of the month, sports success, and thanks to the board of education for attending their concert last night. BOARD BUSINESS February 2022 Treasurer's Report Assistant Superintendent reviewed the February Treasurer’s Report. M. Alt motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the February Treasurer’s Report. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Resolution for the Tax Certiorari Settlement for Morgan Picture Parkway, Morgan North Ponds, & Webster Green Tax Certiorari Settlements. Assistant Superintendent Freeman highlighted the three tax certiorari settlement agreements. J. Richardson motioned, L. Dioguardi seconded to approve the tax certiorari settlement agreements for Morgan Picture Parkway, Morgan North Ponds, and Webster Green. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Resolution for 2022-2023 Budget Adoption Assistant Superintendent Freeman shared the state budget updates. There are no changes from budget workshop #3. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Webster Board of Education adopts the 2022-2023 proposed budget in the amount of $195,813,457; and FURTHERMORE, as previously approved by the Board of Education of the Webster Central School District places Proposition #1, Transportation be authorized to purchase and finance replacement student transport vehicles, including necessary furnishings, fixtures and equipment and all other costs incidental thereto, and expend a total sum not to exceed $1,687,500, which is estimated to be the total maximum cost thereof, and said amount, or so much thereof as may be necessary, shall be raised by the levy of a tax upon the taxable property of said School District and collected in annual installments as provided by Section 416 of the Education Law; and, in anticipation of such tax, obligations of said School District, in the principal amount not to exceed $1,687,500, shall be issued. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to adopt the resolution for the 2022-2023 budget. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Property Tax Report Card and Budget Notice Assistant Superintendent Freeman reviewed the property tax report card and budget notice. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the property tax report card and budget notice. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. BOCES Budget Resolution RESOLVED that the board of education of the Webster Central School District votes to approve the proposed BOCES administrative budget, in the amount of $5,698,479 for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. L. Dioguardi motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo.
BOCES Election Seat #1 - RESOLVED: to cast one vote for the election of Kim McCluski, resident of the Pittsford Central School District School District, as a member of the Monroe #1 BOCES board for a term of office which will begin on July 1, 2022 and end June 30, 2025. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Seat #2 - RESOLVED: to cast one vote for the election of D. Bryan Buttram, resident of the Rush Henrietta Central School District, as a member of the Monroe #1 BOCES board for a term of office which will begin on July 1, 2022 and end on June 30, 2025. J. Richardson motioned, L. Dioguardi seconded. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Seat #3 - RESOLVED: to cast one vote for the election of Margaret Burns, resident of the West Irondequoit Central School District, as a member of the Monroe #1 BOCES board for a term of office which will begin on April 28, 2022 and end on June 30, 2024. J. Richardson motioned, S. LaDelfa seconded. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Seat #4 – VACANT – East Rochester Union Free School District Donation Acceptance from Edward and Alice Johnson Foundation Assistant Superintendent described the generous 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. This donation is also in honor of Lindsay Burgess, Staci DiLiberto, Anne Johnson, Derek Janke, Jaime Jerzak, Suzanne Gressens, Jackie Hansen, Patty Gadsby, Peter DeWitte, Laura Clark, Rachel Dolan, Hannah Formella, Michael Ponticello, Sheli Crescent and Kathi Reichardt. A separate account was created last year from the foundation’s previous donation and this generous gift will be added to it. J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to approve the donation from the Edward and Alice Johnson Foundation. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. Approval of Change Order--Klem South Assistant Superintendent Freeman reviewed the associated change order for Klem South. Be It Resolved that the Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, approves change order IS-154-CB-095 in the amount of $115,921 to be issued on the contract for DiFiore Construction Inc., Site Contractor for the elementary work. J. Richardson motioned, L. Dioguardi seconded to approve Change Order IS-154-CB-095 for Klem South Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. BOARD REPORTS School Liaison Reports Mike Alt reported that Plank North is thankful to be back in person for activities, parent teacher conferences, field trips, 5th grade graduation, book fair, etc. Tammy Gurowski reported that Schlegel is working on Square 1 art, bingo for books, teacher appreciation week, VIP dance, the next meeting is on May 10, and they are recruiting for committees and officers. Linda Dioguardi reported that Spry has their leadership in place for next year, a new fundraiser was added, they hope to add more activities, staff appreciation, open house for incoming 6th grade students, awards nights, and an 8th grade field trip to Niagara Falls. Schroeder will meet next in May, they look forward to an earth day celebration, working with UPK students making bird feeders for the courtyard. Plank South held their science fair, family movie night, chess club, an ice cream social, Mother’s Day plant sale, staff appreciation, etc. Shanna LaDelfa reported that Klem North invited WHEN guest speaker Janine Sanger who described who they are, their goals, and tips for talking with young children about drugs. Klem North held an open house, spring concert season, their first “boosterthon” event fundraiser, preparing for state testing, students are respectful to those who do and do not mask, community service projects, donations for Ukraine, DEI initiative and a newsletter to connect families with resources. Klem South met on March 16, they held a virtual readathon, Square 1 art fundraiser, they are looking for ways to post art projects on social media, VIP dance, teacher appreciation week and the Mary Ann Gangi event. They are in need for volunteers for their executive committee. May 18 is their next meeting. Thomas met to discuss budget changes. They will not be doing adopt a senior this year, they plan to have the luminary event on May 15 at the recreation center, volunteers are needed (non-senior parents), teacher appreciation week, and a job fair.
Monroe County School Boards Association Steering Committee: Tammy Gurowski reported that the budget committee reviewed costs for MCSBA, they are adjusting to their new space and today was their open house. Legislative Committee: Shanna LaDelfa reported that the April 6 meeting was brief since the budget wasn’t approved. Congressional redistricting was declared unconstitutional, is on hold and a final decision will be made at the end of April, NYSED substantial equivalency regulations, etc. Labor Relations: Linda Dioguardi reported that topics included 3020a, negotiations and trends, their next meeting is on RASHP2. Information Exchange: Tammy Gurowski reported on the ongoing effort to build a systems integration project to help families with any need they may have including dependent care, food needs, social connections, etc. with several agencies across the county. The presenter is a WCSD parent. Executive Committee: Tammy Gurowski reported on MCSBA being an incredible organization and appreciative of their efforts. Standing District Committees Audit – They are working with auditors to find time in May to meet with the committee. Policy – The committee held their first meeting and are dividing up sections of the policy manual. It will take at least a year to complete and it is significantly larger than our current manual. ThougtExchange worked well and there are a few informational videos in progress. Strategic Planning: The survey will be administered this month and results will be available in May for analysis, which assists with goals and district work. School Community Committees WHEN was at Community Arts Day working on protective factors. Their goal in the fall is to continue to build community within all schools and partner with PTSA and other community wide events over the summer. The DEI subcommittee meets at the end of April. CONSENT AGENDA M. Alt motioned, J. Richardson seconded to approve the consent agenda as recommended by the Superintendent including Minutes from March 1, 2022 Regular Business Meeting and Budget Workshop #1, March 8, 2022 Regular Business Meeting, Public Hearing and Workshop, March 15, 2022 Regular Business and Budget Workshop #2, Personnel Actions: Certified Probationary as amended, Certified Regular Substitute, Classified Appointments, Adjustments, Additional Assignments, Leaves of Absence, Resignations, Resignations Appointed to New Position, Retirements, Recommendations of the Committee on Special Education Meetings: 2021-2022 Meetings: Annual Review Meetings, Annual Re-eval Meetings, Initial Eligibility Determination Meetings, Program Reviews, Amendment-Agreement No Meeting, Requested Review Transfer Student; 2022-2023 Meetings: Annual Review Meetings, Annual/Re-eval. Meetings, Recommendations of the Committee on Pre-School Special Education Meetings: November 10, 23, 2021, December 1, 17, 22, 2021, January 7, 12, 19, 26, 2022, February 2, 9, 16, 17, 2022, March 2, 4, 9, 16, 23, 28, 2022. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo. VISITOR’S SPEAKING TIME Jason Siwik commented on a lack of response on his offer to volunteer and awareness of what the board advocates for. ADJOURNMENT J. Richardson motioned, M. Alt seconded to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m. Vote: 5: Yes; 0: No; 2 absent: J. Birdsong-Ng, M. Rigillo.
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.