Greenwich Central School District Newsletterwps.greenwichcsd.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/2001-2002.pdf · District Newsletter Volume 2, Issue 1 Fall, 2001 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Superintendent’s

www.greenwichcsd.org

Greenwich Centra l School Distr ict Newslet ter

Volume 2 , Issue 1 Fal l , 2001

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E :

Superintendent’s Message 2

Mentoring Program 3

S.A.D.D. 3

PRISM 3

Emergency School Closing 3

New Staff 4-6

PTSA News 6

Ski Program 7

Cartridge Recycling Program 8

Visit us on the Web!


GCSD thanks our Board members for their hard work and dedication.

Back row L- R: Karl Pingree–President, Joseph O’Malley, and Albert Sykes– Vice President. Front row L—R: Katie Estramonte and Judy Klingebiel

Bobby D’Andrea visits Greenwich Central School.

Remembering September 11, 2001

Players show unity at the Greenwich- Cambridge football game.


Page 2

In the wake of the tragic events of September 11, many of our students and staff members expressed a desire to be of help in some way. In response, our Student Council helped to organize a fund drive for the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. Classes, clubs, and teams at all grade levels, Kindergarten through grade 12, were encouraged to think of ways to raise money to contribute to the Red Cross through this fund drive. These groups organized many activities such as coin collections and ribbon sales. On September 25, our Student Council made a presentation of over $5000 to the American Red Cross. Our classes and students also participated in activities such as sending cards, letters, and pictures expressing support, encouragement, and condolences to some of the firefighters in New York City. Others collected do-nations of food. More recently, some of our middle grade students held bake sales to benefit the Afghan Children’s Relief Fund. Countless other activities continue to be supported through our school-related clubs and groups. We are proud of the many different ways our staff and students have found to help those affected by this tragedy. At this time, when all Americans have a heightened awareness of the dedication of our local fire and police departments, we would especially like to express our appreciation and gratitude for the work of the Green-wich Fire Department and the Greenwich Police Department. Our fire department has provided extensive fire prevention and education programs for our schools over the course of many years. And, of course, both the Fire Department and the Police Department routinely and promptly respond to any safety-related needs at our school. Members and leaders of both departments are very active members of our district’s Health and Safety Committee. Their constant support and participation in enhancing the health and safety of our school community are very much appreciated. These difficult times present challenges for all citizens and leaders, and some of the most significant challenges must be met by our local Board of Education. At this time, schools must provide support for students and staff affected by the events of September 11. They must also deal with the budgetary impli-cations of these events, from providing increased security in our buildings to dealing with a state budget that is now expected to provide very limited support for schools. It is most appropriate that, in October, we celebrated New York State School Board Recognition Week, recognizing each of our Board members for their dedication to providing the best possible educational opportunities for our students. Our school board members are: Karl Pingree (President), Albert Sykes (Vice President), Katie Estramonte, Judy Klingebiel, and Joe O’Malley. We are most appreciative of their dedicated efforts toward meeting the many on-going challenges typically met by school districts, as well as the extraordinary challenges presented by the recent unfortunate events in our country.

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Susanne Fulmer, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

Volume 2, Issue 1


Page 3

The ‘Greenwich Experienced Mentors’ Program (or the GEMS Program) in the Greenwich High School is a program where experienced members of the community visit students at internships where they are exploring possible future careers. If you are a retired or semi-retired person in the community and are willing to donate a few hours a week to mentor a

S.A.D.D has started its 2nd year at Greenwich High School. All students grades 7-12 are encouraged to join. Once again, our advisors are Mrs. Amy McPhail & Mrs. Joy Gordon. We are looking for newspaper clippings or positive stories about past GCS students who have

S . A . D . D N E WSS . A . D . D N E WS

E M E R G E N C Y S C H O O L C L O S I N G I N FO R M AT I O NE M E R G E N C Y S C H O O L C L O S I N G I N FO R M AT I O N

Please listen to AM Radio 810 and TV Channel 6.

Greenwich Elementary School now offers monthly after school sessions of the Prism support group for children. The group will meet on the third Wednesday of every month for the entire school year. It is designed for children in grades 3-6. Prism is open to any child who has lost a friend or relative to death. The goals of the program are to help children understand loss, learn to cope and connect with

G E T I N VO LV E D W I T H T HG E T I N VO LV E D W I T H T H E E F U T U R E O F O U R S T U D E N T S !F U T U R E O F O U R S T U D E N T S !

student, we are looking for you. These internships are part of the Work Experience Program, which is a course for high school seniors to explore future career opportunities. If you are interesting in becoming a ‘GEM’ or just wish to get more information, please contact Mrs. Christine Belden, Program Coordinator at the high school at 692-9542.

done something successful, inspirational, etc. to display in our High School hall showcase. Our hope is that this display motivates our students to realize that they can do anything they put their minds to. If any-one has a story to share please send to Mrs. Amy McPhail or Mrs. Joy Gordon at the High School.

P R I S MP R I S M C O P I N G W I T H L O S S ,C O P I N G W I T H L O S S , C E L E B R A T I N G L I F EC E L E B R A T I N G L I F E

A Children’s Support Group

others who have had similar experiences. Prism is co-facilitated by GCS staff: Leslea Davis, Deb Pearson and Lisa Williams. The program is free of charge and is in its second year of operation. Registration forms are available in the Middle Grade Office. Please call any of the facilitators at 692-9542, ext. 2241 for further information.


Page 4

Ashli Becker

Ashli Becker is our new additional Speech Thera-pist for K-6. Miss Becker comes to us with clinical experience, as well as experience as a Speech Therapist, from Jefferson Elementary School in Scenectady. She holds both her B.S. & Masters degree from The College of St. Rose.

Katherine Dallemagne, is a long-term substitute this year and will be teaching high school Math. Katherine has a BS in Biology from RPI, BS in Medical Technology from Old Dominion and she is pursuing an MS in Education at SUNY Plattsburgh. Katherine recently moved from Maryland where she was an American Red Cross instructor.

Katherine Dallemagne

GREENWICHGREENWICH CENTRALCENTRAL SCHOOLSCHOOL

Michael Ouimet

Lauren Cuccolo is our new First Grade teacher. Miss Cuccolo comes to us from Rensselaer City School District. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education and a B.A. in Psychology from Keene State College.

Lauren Cuccolo

We welcome Michael Ouimet as our new Business Administrator. He comes with extensive business experience having been the Administrative Coordinator at Capital Region BOCES, the Payroll Administrator at Albany City School District, and for 10 years, the Data Processing Fiscal Systems Auditor at the Office of the State Comptroller. Mr. Ouimet is a member of the Collegiate Basketball Officials Association and the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials. He is the Volunteer Fiscal Advisor to the Rensselaer Organizations United for Senior Endeavors, Inc.

Volume 2, Issue 1


Page 5

WELCOMES NEW STAFF MWELCOMES NEW STAFF M EMBERSEMBERS

Barbara de Graaf

Barbara de Graaf, our new librarian clerk, is working in the new Media Center along side the high school librarian. Barbara comes to us from Cambridge Central School where she was secre-tary to the high school principal, attendance monitor, special needs classroom aide and cheering coach.

Thomas Manera, has joined our science department as our new Living Environment (Biology) teacher. Tom taught Earth Science and Biology at Ft. Edward Central School for the last two years. Tom received his B.A. in Biology at Rhode Island College and his M.A. in Science at SUNY Plattsburgh.

William Hunter, a long-term substitute this year, is teaching high school English through the first half of the year. William previously retired as principal at Hoosick Falls Central School and also taught English there. He has also coached football, basketball and baseball at Hoosick Falls, Bethlehem and Whitehall Central Schools.

William Hunter

Thomas Manera

Matthew Gonroff

Matthew R. Gonroff is the new Special Education 8:1:2 teacher in the Elementary. Mr. Gonroff has a degree in Special Education from Green Mountain College and a Master's degree in Elementary Education from SUNY Plattsburgh. He taught Special Education at Warrens-burg Central School for 4 years. Mr. Gonroff enjoys, cooking, fishing, reading and working out. He was also this season's modified girls soccer coach.


Page 6

NEW STAFF CONTINUEDNEW STAFF CONTINUED

Richard Ruberti is the newest member of our business depart-ment. He is teaching Business Law, Keyboarding, Business Analysis/Business Computer Applications and Integrated Computer Applications this year. Richard received his M.A. in Education at the College of St. Rose and his B.A. in Economics at SUNY Cortland.

Richard Ruberti

Rebecca Quinn, our new ninth grade AIS teacher, is working closely with the ninth grade faculty and students. Rebecca worked for the last two years at Mt. Anthony Union Middle School in Bennington, Vermont, with 7th grade special edu-cation. She holds a BA in Secondary Ed. & Social Studies from the University of Hartford and an MA in Special Ed. and Reading from Russell Sage Graduate School.

Rebecca Quinn

The PTSA (Parent-Teacher-Student Association) strives to promote the welfare of children and youth; to secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth; to bring the home and the school into closer relation, so that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the education of children and youth; and to develop between educators and the general public such united efforts as will secure for all children and youth the highest

PTSA NEWS PTSA NEWS

advantages in physical, mental, social, and spiritual education. Please consider membership in the oldest child advocacy group in America. You don’t need to be a member to attend our meetings or group-sponsored activities, but your membership strengthens our numbers and strengthens our voice. The next meeting of the Greenwich PTSA will be on Wednesday, November 28, at 7 P.M. in the K-2 Library.

Volume 2, Issue 1

Media Caron - Elementary Reading Recovery Teacher Elaine Collins - High School Special Education Teacher Maita Dixon - High School Cleaner Tanya George - Secretary for the Office of Pupil Personnel Services Jean Kozloski - Full-time School Psychologist Erin Lyons - Kindergarten Teacher Hoby Morris - High School Cleaner Bill Wilson - Middle Grade Cleaner

WELCOMEWELCOME The following people hold new positions this year:


Page 7

Student Ski Program at Willard Mountain Once again Greenwich Central School, the Town of Greenwich Youth Program and Willard Mountain

are combining efforts to offer students an opportunity to ski or learn to ski. Each year from 80 to 120 students take part in the program. WHO: students in grades 3-12 are invited to participate in our Ski Program. Parents are welcome to participate and students below grade 3 may join with special permission of the program advisor. WHEN: Saturdays for 6 weeks beginning January 5, 2002. There will be no make-ups unless Willard Moun-

tain is closed or transportation is impossible. • Skiing begins at 9:00 AM. • All lessons are 10:00-11:30 AM with free skiing before and after lessons.

RATES: Rates are for 6 visits: PAYMENT DUE DATE: November 15, 2001—Thursday TRANSPORTATION: Bus transportation is provided from the GCS bus garage to Willard Mt. and back. Details will be given after the number of participants is determined. Students in the Willard Mt. Area may travel directly to the ski area. Bus leaves the garage promptly at 8:30 am and returns at 1:00 pm. FITTING DATE: Fittings will be the week of November 30th (information to follow). INTERESTED? Return the attached form with payment to: Craig Roods, High School or Susan Roods, Middle Grade Building.

Equipment, Lessons, & Lifts $142.00 After Nov. 15 $154.00

Lessons & Lifts $102.00 After Nov. 15 $114.00

Lift, Lessons, Snowboard $162.00 After Nov. 15 $174.00

Equipment, Lessons, & Lifts $142.00 After Nov. 15 $154.00

Lessons & Lifts $102.00 After Nov. 15 $114.00

Lift, Lessons, Snowboard $162.00 After Nov. 15 $174.00

Clip and return with payment in an envelope (Checks payable to Willard Mt. Ski Program)

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

Student(s) Name Homeroom Teacher Address Phone Check rate desired:

I will need bus transportation I have my own transportation Adult Pass (no lessons) $90.00


10 Gray Avenue Greenwich, NY 12834

Phone: 518-692-9542

Greenwich Central School

Our children are learning a valuable lesson about recycling while earning free computer and play-ground equipment. They are participating in a FundingFactoryTM Program called ETCEP®, other-wise known as Educational Technology and Conservation Exchange Program. ETCEP encourages children, childcare centers and nonprofit organizations to collect empty laser and inkjet cartridges from their community. Empty cartridges earn points, which are exchanged for free computer equipment and playground equipment, installations and ground cover from GameTime®. For our community’s convenience, a cartridge drop-off site has been set up at each of our buildings. ETCEP currently has 11,000 registered participants that are supported by 100,000 businesses including banks, insurance agencies, hospitals, office supply stores, grocery stores, etc. Local companies interested in demonstrating their commitment to technology, recreation and the envi-ronment can participate in the ETCEP Adopt-A-School Program, By adopting Greenwich Central School, local businesses pledge their empty laser and inkjet cartridges to them. There is never a cost involved in participating and free, prepaid shipping boxes are sent to return collected car-tridges. ETCEP is part of www.FundingFactory.com The mission of the FundingFactory is to provide fundraising solutions that enhance educational and recreational opportunities for schools, childcare centers and nonprofit organizations, especially as they relate to increasing access to technology and playground equipment. For more information, contact Daniel Jordan (692-9542 Ext. 2211).

F R E E C O M P U T E R/PL A YG RO U N D E Q U I P M E N T T H RO U G H C A RT R I D G E R E C YC L I N G



CAR-RT

Non-Profit Organization

PAID Greenwich, NY Permit No. 23

Board of Education Members

• Karlton Pingree, President

• Albert Sykes, Vice President

• Kathleen Estramonte

• Judith Klingebiel

• Joseph O’Malley

Superintendent of Schools • Susanne Fulmer, Ed.D



Volume 2 , Issue 2 Winter , 2002



Budget Dates /Information 3

FFA/Agriculture News 4

Home and Careers 5

Music Department, HS 5

SADD 6

Work Experience Program 6

Draft Budget Guidelines 7

Music Department, Elem. 8



Susan Trump: Artist in Residency

Susan Trump visited again! This was her eleventh year, as an Artist in Residency, at Greenwich Central School. Susan is an accomplished musician, veteran educator and performer. She is known for songs that touch the heart, recall the past, and inspire the times ahead. Susan recently released her third solo CD, “Susan Trump-Live at Caffe Lena.” Her music, songs, and storytelling greatly enriched the Third Grade LIFE BACK THEN theme. In the Third Grade classrooms, during the week of February 11-15th, students learned about life years ago. They looked forward to Susan’s daily visit filled with songs and music from the past. They worked cooperatively to write an original song using information gathered from interviewing a grandparent. Through sharing old-time toys, storytelling, and music the unit of study came alive and brightened many eyes! For additional information about Susan Trump’s performances, recordings, and Arts in Education program visit her website at www.susantrump.com.

Susan Trump performing in Mrs. Barnhart’s classroom.

Instruments used for song writing and assemblies.


Page 2

Recently, our Board of Education members participated in Board development activities aimed at providing for a careful analysis and evaluation of our current programs, goal-setting, and the development of short-term and long-term plans for the district. As a result of these activities, the Board has updated their goals to the following:

GCS Board of Education Goals 1. Provide and promote positive relations and an atmosphere of open communication and mutual

respect with members of the community and school.

2. Maintain and promote fiscal stability and responsibility.

3. Evaluate, maintain, and improve curriculum and instruction in light of New York State and community standards on a continuing basis.

4. Make GCS a place where our staff want to work.

5. Provide safe and well-maintained buildings, grounds, and equipment.

The Board of Education plans to participate in on-going initiatives relating to each of the goals listed above. In addition, the Board continues to welcome input from the community in the planning process and the development of policy. Over the course of the past several years, community members have contributed to the development of our district’s Annual Professional Performance Review Plan, our Professional Development Plan, and our School Safety Plan, and many standards and policies relating to academic achievement and participation in school-related activities. Community input will continue to guide the development of our district-level mission statement and goals as they are readied for the review and approval of the Board of Education.

Development of the 2002-2003 District Budget We are now in the process of developing our 2002-2003 school district budget. On page 3, you will find a listing of important information and dates pertaining to the budget process. Community members are urged to attend any or all of the listed meetings, and to bring questions and suggestions. Please note that, this year, the Board of Edu-cation has also scheduled a Community Dialogue on the Budget for Monday, April 1 at 7:00 PM in the High School Media Center. This session will allow for community input into budget development before the proposed budget is adopted. Also new this year is a listing of draft Budget Guidelines (see page 7). These draft guidelines have been reviewed at a Board of Education meeting. They will be finalized, with input from our school community members, during the budget process this spring, and updated annually. If you have any questions or suggestions about these guide-lines or about our 2002-2003 budget, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Michael Ouimet, School Business Administrator or me at 518-692-9542.



Volume 2, Issue 2


Page 3

I m p o r ta n t D a t e s a n d I n f o r m a t i o n : 2 0 0 2 - 2 0 0 3 D i s t r i c t B u d g e t

Wednesday, February 13 Budget Work Session: Review of Operations & Maintenance, Transportation

Budgets Monday, March 4 Regular Board Meeting: Review of Elementary and Special Education Budgets

Monday, March 11 Budget Work Session: Review of Secondary and Extra-curricular Activities Budget, Interscholastic Athletics Budget

Monday, March 25 Regular Board Meeting: Review of Employee Benefits and BOCES Services

Budgets, Estimated Revenues, Tax Projection Data Monday, April 1 Budget Work Session: Community Dialogue on the Budget; Review and/or

Adoption of Proposed Budget Monday, April 8 Budget Work Session (if needed): Review and Adoption of Proposed Budget Monday, April 22 5:00 PM: Deadline for submission of Petitions for Nominations of Board

Candidates Tuesday, May 7 Budget Hearing Tuesday, May 21 Budget Vote and Election

In order to provide assistance to disabled citizens and senior citizens, the Board of Education has approved senior citizens tax exemptions, and an exemption of up to 50% of assessed value for eligible disabled persons. Under the New York State “STAR” (School Tax Relief) Program, all primary-residence homeowners who have applied will be able to take advantage of the “basic” or “enhanced” (for senior citizens) STAR exemptions during 2002-2003. School district residents can obtain further information on these property tax exemptions from their local property assessor. You can find your local assessor’s phone number by calling 1-888-697-8275 or you can access a listing of assessors on the Office of Real Property Services (ORPS) web page at http://www.orps.state.ny.us. On Tuesday, May 7th, the Board of Education will hold a budget hearing where the three parts of the 2002-2003 Proposed Budget (the program component, the capital component, and the administrative component) will be pre-sented and explained. It is important to note that the purpose of this hearing is not to initiate changes in the budget, since the Proposed Budget will already have been adopted prior to the budget hearing. Rather, this hearing is held in order to provide information to the community so that voters will be informed and have an opportunity to ask questions about the proposed budget before it is presented for voter approval. For this reason, the Board has also scheduled a Community Dialogue on the Budget for Monday, April 1 at 7:00 PM in the High School Media Cen-ter. This session will allow for community input into budget development before the proposed budget must be adopted. All community members are encouraged to attend any or all of our budget sessions, as well as our budget hearing on Tuesday, May 7th.


Page 4 Volume 2, Issue 2

The Agriculture Communications Team won first place at the New York State FFA Convention in Medina, NY in May. Then they had the opportu-nity to travel to the National FFA Convention in Louisville, KY to compete. They received a bronze award at the National Convention and did a super job with a fairly new contest. The team would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of the people and businesses who helped make the trip a success.

FFA and Agriculture News

On November 1st and 2nd, thirty-five stu-dents went on the College Road Trip to visit SUNY Morrisville, SUNY Cobleskill and Cornell University. The students had the opportunity to talk with representatives from each college, tour the facilities, and experience dining hall food first hand. The trip was made possible by the Ag Tech Prep grant, which is chaired by Mr. Terry Hughes from SUNY Cobleskill. We had a fantastic time and the students were able to compare the different college settings to help them make informed choices for their future.

2001-2002 FFA Officers

Pictured L-R: Chelsea Zink, Mike Borden, Tricia McKernon, Amy DeRagon, Heather Stewart, Anthony DellaRocco, Christine Yakubec, Alyssa Strainer, Chris Shinski, and Brad Kelly

Agriculture Communications Team


Page 5

Home and Career News

Music News

Greenwich High School Music Department members Daniel Bulger, Chelsie Henderson, Nicholas Henderson, and Kenneth Mumby spent an incredible two days practicing their art with the best musicians from Zone 7 at the Area All State Music Festival in Saratoga Springs, NY. Acceptance to this festival is one of the highest accomplishments a public high school music student can have and is a direct result of their outstanding per-formances at last spring’s NYSSMA solo festival. These students performed at the top level of music listed in the New York State manual and received a grade no lower than 95 out of 100. Nick and Ken played in the band, while Chelsie and Dan sang in the choir. We salute these students for their dedication to music and our music programs in school.

The 8th grade Home and Careers classes at the Greenwich Central School have recently been completing a pro-ject on careers. Part of this project included the students spending one half to one full day in at a job that they were interested. The articles and photos to follow are press releases that the students have written themselves on their actual job shadows they completed. Students in this program shadow community members and business people in the local area in jobs where the students have an interest. The program is directed under the Home and Careers Teacher, Ms. Danish and the Work Experience Coordinator, Mrs. Belden.

Student Name: Andrew Moore Job Site Name:

Stewart’s Processing Plant Stewart’s Ice Cream Company

Saratoga Springs, NY On Thursday the 14th of January, I visited the Stewart’s Processing Plant. I got a tour of the plant and facilities. I learned the process of processing milk, making ice cream and packaging these many products. I talked with many workers about their job. I was most impressed with the workers and how nice they were and their ability to do their jobs.

Student Name: Nicole Duffey Job Site Name:

Greenwich Junior High School 10 Gray Avenue Greenwich, NY

Hi! My name is Nicole Duffey. I job-shadowed Mrs. Reville a 7th grade English teacher on December 7, 2001. From this experience I learned that everyone is different and you have to be ready for just about any situation. I was most im-pressed when Mrs. Reville gave an answer to every question someone gave her.

Student Name: Timothy Desnoyers Job Site Name:

WGNA Latham Circle Mall

Latham, NY

For my job shadow project, I shad-owed Rick Robinson from WGNA. I shadowed him from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on December 20, 2001. I learned that they mainly use com-puters to organize what they are going to say. I also learned that he goes to work at 2:00 a.m. or 3:00 a.m. every day.



S.A.D.D. News Once again this year S.A.D.D is planning an assembly on Thurs. April 25th at 1pm for all Prom goers. The subject is Prom Awareness - Driving While Intoxicated, Drug and Substance Abuse. Their are a number of speakers set to speak including a panel of teens in a program for Teen Drug Abusers and Alcholics, whom will tell their individual stories of how this abuse has affected their lives. If their is anyone in the community whom has a story involving an accident they or someone they love was in due to driving while intoxicated, or has sustained a permanent injury from an above related accident, and would like to share their story at our assem-bly please contact Amy McPhail in the High School Main Office. 692-9542 Ext.4223. Parents of all students planning to attend this year's prom are invited to attend this assembly.

Business Education Mr. Rubertis’ Business Law class, part of the Business Education Department, completed a mock trial in Decem-ber. The entire class participated, which was made up of an eight-member jury, three prosecuting attorneys and three defense attorneys, a judge, as well as several witnesses. The case was based on evidence developed and correlated to materials taught in the class. The preparation for the trial took over a week; the case was completed, with a guilty verdict, in four class periods. The class will complete a second mock trial in the spring.

Work Experience

The Work Experience Program at GCS is progressing very well for the 2001-2002 school year. Currently there are over 20 students who participate in the program. These students have internship placements ranging from medical offices and hospitals to school, law, and accounting offices in local areas. These students are getting an excellent first hand experience in the careers that they are interested in for the future. Signups for next years’ course will begin soon…so if you have a student that is in this year’s junior class…tell them to look for the presentations that they will receive next month on this course. Ask them to talk with some of the students currently in the program to see if this is an option for them! Remember this course is strictly for Career Exploration and designed to assist students on the path to their futures. If you have any questions, on the Work Experience Program please contact Christine Belden, Coordinator at the school 692-9542.

Pictured is Stephanie Thompson, a stu-dent in the Work Experience Program. Stephanie’s interest is in business. She has just finished an internship at Cristaldi’s Accounting Firm and will be starting her next internship at the Fort Miller Group, both companies are in Greenwich.

Pictured is Andrea Lewsey, a student in the Work Experience Program. Andrea’s interest is in the health care fields. She has just finished an internship at the McClellan Family Practice in Greenwich. Her previous internship was with the Washington County Office of the Aging in Hudson Falls.


Page 7

1. The budget will support a quality educational program while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

2. Budget expenditures will be in alignment with the vision, mission, and goals developed by representatives of the faculty, staff, students, community, and Board of Education.

3. Community input will be solicited and taken into account during the development of the budget.

4. Information about the budget will be made readily available the community. The Superintendent of Schools and School Business Administrator will be available to answer questions about the budget.

5. Long-term fiscal stability and predictability will be maximized through the development and regular updating of short-term and long-term plans for school improvement, maintenance of the physical plant, and needed equip-ment purchases.

6. Energy conservation, recycling, and reusing will be practiced wherever possible.

7. Available grant money will be utilized to maximize long-term benefit to the school (e.g., purchase of equipment) and minimize dependence on grants for fundamental needs.

8. Professional and support staff salaries will be in keeping with experience, educational background, responsibili-ties, and appropriate salary standards to support a quality staff.

9. Projections on state aid, equalization rates, and regulatory changes that may affect the budget process will be carefully monitored.

10. Every effort will be made to keep tax rates stable and within limits defined by any rises in the cost of living index and inflation.

11. A three-year projection of the district's financial status will be prepared each year before adoption of the next year's proposed budget.

12. These guidelines will be reviewed and updated annually.

Draft Budget Guidelines 2002-2003 Budget

E M E R G E N C Y S C H O O L C L O S I N G I N FO R M AT I O N

Please listen to AM Radio 810 and TV Channel 6.


Greenwich Central School 10 Gray Avenue

Greenwich, New York 12834

Phone: 518-692-9542



CAR-RT




• Karlton Pingree, President

• Albert Sykes, Vice President



Superintendent of Schools • Susanne Fulmer, Ed.D Secondary Principal

• Matthias Donnelly

Elementary Principal

• Regina Gapczynski

Asst. Principal K-12

• Daniel Jordan

Director, Pupil Personnel Services

• Alison Neary

The following students were selected to participate in this year's All-County Instrumental Festival: Michael Amico, Logan Henderson, Tivona Renoni, Lucas Roods, Laura Salkowe, Catherine Simoneau, and Caleb Weaver. This year's festival will be held at Argyle Central School on Saturday, March 23. The concert will start at 5:00 p.m. Congratulations to our fine young musicians!! Missing from photo: Dan and Lucas Roods.

Music News

Newsletter Editors

• Amy Sorbera

• Daniel Jordan



Volume 2 , Issue 3 June, 2002



Supt’s Message, Continued 3

Classroom News 4

Classroom News 5

Classroom News/FFA 6

Prism Bereavement Group 6

Classroom News 7

HS Art Scholarship 8



District Learning Fair

Community members were able to view exhibits representing student work from Kindergarten to Grade 12, on May 21st. Pictured above are Jason Flynn and Brittny Walker from Mrs. Pattee’s Second Grade class, showing off the flower they built and labeled.

Greenwich Students Show Support

Students in Kindergarten through Grade 6 wrote letters of support to soldiers serving in Afghanistan. Serving at Bagram Air Base, is Technical Sergeant, Lorraine Willabay, wife of John Willabay, GCS Director of Building and Grounds. In response to the let-ters, the soldiers sent back a signed shirt from the Air Base. Pictured on the left are several students who wrote letters along with the t-shirt signed by the sol-diers.


Page 2

Greenwich-Easton Community Cares

In response to the tragic accident of April 6, 2002 that resulted in the deaths of two of our students and the serious injury of three of our students, a group of community organizations has formed a new organization called “Greenwich-Easton Community Cares,” or GECC. GECC includes representatives of village, town, and school officials, clergy and ecumenical groups, parents, community members, and students. This new organization has developed the following statement:

The "Greenwich/Easton Community Cares" (GECC) about the safety and welfare of all our youth. It is through this great love and concern and unwavering commitment to our most valuable asset, our children, that we refuse to tolerate any illegal use of drugs or alcohol. Collectively, our elected offi-cials, clergy and ecumenical groups, and school administration will work tirelessly to prevent the un-derage use of alcohol. However, policymakers cannot bring about this transition toward increased respect and responsibility alone. We are in great need of the efforts of our entire community, espe-cially parents. Although this group will lead by actions as well as words to encourage parents to prop-erly perform their very difficult duties, be assured that strict enforcement of existing laws as they per-tain to the illegal use and distribution of alcohol will be constant.

During the next few weeks and months, GECC will organize a number of events that invite the participation of all community members in supporting this statement. The Greenwich Central School would like to encourage all community members to participate in these activities and to support the efforts of GECC. It is our hope that, through the determined, persistent efforts of our community, we will prevent such tragedies in the future. In addi-tion, we will provide important guidance and support for our youth, enabling them to make good choices that will have a lasting effect in enhancing their safety and improving the quality of their lives.

Welcome to School Board Members As a result of the school board member election of May 21, we are delighted to welcome Susan Percoco and Katherine Roome as new members of our Board of Education, and Joe O’Malley as a continuing member of our Board. Mrs. Percoco has been elected to a five-year term, and Mrs. Roome has been elected to a three-year term vacated by Katie Estramonte. Mr. O’Malley will continue his membership on the Board, having been elected to a two-year term vacated by Karl Pingree.


Volume 2, Issue 3


Page 3

2002-2003 School District Budget-Thank You!

On May 21, Greenwich School District residents approved the District’s Proposed Budget and a proposition for school buses for the 2002-2003 school year. The 2002-2003 budget includes funding for: an additional secondary science teacher an additional secondary mathematics and Academic Intervention Services teacher an additional special education teacher an Assistant Principal the continuation of our building project, to include:

o a new agricultural science laboratory in the high school o the completion of upgrades in the Primary Grade Building

two new school buses to provide for planned replacement of retired buses Our new science teacher will help maintain appropriate class sizes and also provide additional electives to enhance our program offerings and challenge our students to achieve at high levels. Our new mathematics teacher will pro-vide academic intervention services to assist students in meeting the New York State Standards and help maintain appropriate class sizes. Until now, our assistant principal has been shared between the elementary and secondary pro-grams. The addition of a new assistant principal will provide for an elementary assistant principal and a secondary assistant principal, enabling our elementary and secondary principals to focus on matters relating to instructional leadership and to assist our students in meeting higher academic standards. The addition of a special education teacher will allow the district to provide additional special education services in our district, eliminating the need to send some students to programs at separate locations. Because of the addition of this position, the district is expected to realize a significant savings in tuition expenses, and possibly generate tuition income for students from other districts who will be able to attend classes in Greenwich. The support of our voters for this budget is very much appreciated. We will continue our efforts to provide high quality, cost-effective programs for our students, and to help each student to be successful in meeting high standards for achievement.




Classroom News

Physical Education

In March, the sixth grade classes spent some time at the New York Martial Arts Academy on Salem Street in Greenwich. John Darfler invited the physical edu-cation classes in for a lesson. The students found the experience to be very exciting, and as you can see from the photo, enthusiastically participated. The Greenwich Central School, the sixth grade classes, and the physical education teachers would like to thank Mr. Darfler for his presentation.

Grade 3 Grade 4

On April 5, 2002, the fourth grade classes had the privilege of touring the New York State Capitol. The students explored the fascinating architecture, history, and workings of the Capitol. The tour included the Senate and Assembly Chambers, Mil-lion Dollar Staircase, and Historical Flag Room. It was a fun and educational day.

On April 29, 2002, the third grade classes took a field trip to the New York State Museum in Albany. The day included a tour of the museum where students were able to view exhibits and artifacts from New York State history. The students also participated in a hands-on lesson with birds and mammals. One of the highlights from the trip was viewing the memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in the World Trade Center after the September 11th terrorist attack.


Page 5

Classroom News

The Environmental Science students, studying a unit in Wildlife Management, built over 30 bluebird houses. Students followed plans from The Conservationist to ensure that the dimensions would be accurate and bluebirds would be enticed to the new homes. Many students took their birdhouses home, while others placed them around the perimeter of the school’s athletic fields. The beautiful bluebird is the New York State bird. It’s population is making a comeback largely because of a concerted effort to reestablish nesting sites with the houses.

Environmental Science

Art Club The Sixth Grade Art Club has been working on a wall mural in the Nurse’s Office in the Middle Grade building. Several months ago Mrs. Durrin, the school nurse, had asked Mr. McHenry, the Elementary Art teacher, about having the kids do a painting in her office to liven up the walls. Starting from a blank wall the students sketched all kinds of ideas and worked together to arrive at a final sketch of the mural. They then transferred the drawing to the wall using an overhead projec-tor and then got to work painting. They have spent many weeks working on it and are now working on a few finishing touches. We look forward to enjoying their work for many years to come, as their lasting mark on the Middle Grade building.



Classroom News

Prism Bereavement Group Agricultural Science

Over forty Greenwich FFA members participated in the NYS FFA Convention at Schuylerville Central School on May 2-4, 2002. Over $1500 was brought home by numerous FFA members through their Supervised Agricultural Experiences, Career Development Events and Fundraising Activities. Greenwich FFA members ran the busy Press Corps. and the Courtesy Corps. Adrienne Weaver and Meagan Wilkinson participated in the FFA State Chorus. Anthony Della Rocco was named State Star in Agricultural Mechanics. Matthew Brizzell was awarded State Star in Ornamental Horticulture. Chelsea Zink received first place in Equine Production. Mandy Facin was also recognized in the Equine category. Mike Borden was named the winner in the Fruit Production Profiency. Anthony Della Rocco won the Beef and Grain Proficiencies. Matt Brizzell also won the Diversified Horticulture Profiency. Lance Jordan received second place in the Engineering category. Heather Stewart received 3rd place in Dairy Production. Matt Goodling was recognized as Top Advertising Salesman for the FFA Convention Program. Empire Degrees were awarded to the following Greenwich FFA members: Eben Allen, Brandon Barrow, Mat-thew Brizzell, Anthony Della Rocco, Heidi Esmond, Mandy Facin, Kristin Herrington, Lance Jordan, Andrew Marchaland, Mary Slocum, Heather Stewart, and Brandie Watts. Lance Jordan stated, “The highlight of the con-vention was definitely speaking to Governor Pataki!”

FFA

Prism will conclude another successful year with final meetings on June 5 and June 12. We will be adding memorial bricks to our outdoor classroom this month and having our year-end celebration. We have met on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month with an open door policy. The students have shared many feelings and experiences surrounding loss, as well as enjoyed snacks and fun times. The growth of this program has been truly amazing, thanks to the wonderful collaboration between students, fami-lies and staff. We look forward to our third year together. Just a reminder, Prism is open to students in grades 3-6 who have lost a loved one. Registration forms are avail-able in the Middle Grade Office. Call Lisa Williams, Deb Pearson or Leslea Davis for more information.

On May 8, 2002 nine Greenwich Agricultural Science students participated in the Regional Envirothon at the Saratoga State Park sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture and the local Na-tional Resources and Conservation Office. One team consisting of Kristin Herrington, Heather Stewart, Sarah LaCroix, Sara Piparo, and Mary Slocum placed 3rd in Washington County. The other Greenwich team placed 2nd and consisted of Brandon Barrow, Andrew Marchaland, Matt Goodling and Adrian Dawson. The teams traveled to five stations and an-swered questions covering environmental topics such as soils, wildlife, aquatics, forestry and introduced species. The winning team went on to a state com-petition at SUNY, Cobleskill.


Page 7

Classroom News

Grade 2

Second Grade classes were treated to a visit by author, Daniel J. Mahoney. During his visit each class created a story with Mr. Mahoney while he illustrated their thoughts. Mr. Mahoney will be returning to GCS to autograph copies of his book and have lunch with several Second Grade students.

The Second Grade classes traveled to Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa for their “Sheep to Shawl” program. The children saw a sheep being sheared. They learned how wool was cleaned, spun, dyed and made into rugs, clothing, etc. They each got a chance to “spin” wool with their hands.

The Second Grade classes were treated to a “story salad” at the Palace Theater in Albany. Several children’s books were acted out on stage. The last story was a favorite of all chil-dren, Good Driving, Amelia Bedelia! It was an enjoyable event for all and gave the children a chance to be inside a real theater.

Middle Grade Poets

I Am I am a smart student who likes games. I wonder how money is made. I hear motorcycles roaring. I see flashing lights on the police car. I want to fly like a bird. I am a smart student who likes games.

I Am I am a happy boy who likes dirt bikes. I wonder how old the world is. I hear dirt bikes screaming. I see deer grazing. I want to howl like the wolves. I am a happy boy who likes dirt bikes.

I Am I am a silly student who loves movies. I wonder how big the moon is. I hear helicopters flying. I see blinking lights on planes on night. I want to swing hard and fast. I am a silly student who loves movies.

.


Greenwich Central School 10 Gray Avenue

Greenwich, New York 12834

Phone: 518-692-9542



CAR-RT




• Albert Sykes, President



• Susan Percoco

• Katherine Roome

Superintendent of Schools

• Susanne Fulmer, Ed.D Secondary Principal

• Matthias Donnelly

Elementary Principal

• Regina Gapczynski

Asst. Principal K-12

• Daniel Jordan

Director, Pupil Personnel Services

• Alison Neary

Business Administrator

• Michael Ouimet

G r e e n w i ch H i g h S ch o o l A r t S ch o l a r s h i p

Newsletter Editors

• Amy Sorbera

• Daniel Jordan

Janet Dupuis, Greenwich High School art teacher and advisor for the High School Art Club, is working with members of the community to help establish an annual art scholarship. A raffle and a Father’s Day Sports and Art Expo will be held on June 15th at Pheasant Ridge Hunting Preserve, Route 40, Greenwich, New York. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the art schol-arship. For further information about the scholarship, please contact Janet Dupuis at 692-9542. At the Father’s Day Sports and Art Expo, there will be seminars and demonstrations related to fly-fishing, hunting dog training, and the outdoors. A number of artists from the Wildlife Art Gallery at Pheasant Ridge will be displaying their work. For more information about the Sports and Art Expo at Pheasant Ridge, please contact Beth Anthony at 854-7777.

Documents

Greenwich Central School District Newsletterwps.greenwichcsd.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/2001-2002.pdf · District Newsletter Volume 2, Issue 1 Fall, 2001 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Superintendent’s