Grand Island Central School District news page

Grand Island School Board News Page 2
2008

Previous News Pages

School Board Meeting Agenda - Jan. 2009
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, January 5, 2009 in the High School Large Cafeteria. See Monday, Jan. 5, 2009 Meeting Agenda.

Grand Island Central School District
Proposed State Aid Cuts - Dec. 2008
By Robert W. Christmann, Superintendent of Schools
   See "2009-10 Governor's proposed state aid reduction figures."

   The Grand Island Central School District learned on December 16th what the impact of Governor Paterson's proposed 2009-10 budget would have on our district. He has recommended a nearly $1.5 million dollar cut in our current level of state aid. Those dollars represent an approximate 10% cut, one of the highest percentages among Erie County schools. When combined with the required district expenditures for health insurance, social security, mandatory NYS retirement charges, salaries, benefits and utilities, there will be a significant gap that will need to be reconciled between revenues and expenditures.
   While we will encourage our two state legislators, Assemblyman Hoyt and Senator Thompson, to work to reduce this very negative proposal, the Board will also be working very hard to find the areas in the budget to make major reductions in spending. We will seek the assistance of our taxpayers both for ideas and financial support. The challenge of developing our 2009-10 budget is a big one - probably the most difficult budget to create that our district has ever seen. The Grand Island Board of Education and district staff have pledged to do the very best job that they can do to balance the limited resources of our residents with the needs of students to receive the best possible education that the community can afford.
   As the Board is considering a future capital project, it was important to see that despite the poor economic climate, the state has continued its financial support of already approved projects. In the 2009-10 state budget there will be an increase of $263 million dollars over last year to cover those building projects approved throughout New York districts. Once a project is voter approved, the state has not, in the past, ever failed to fully fund its share of the costs. For Grand Island, 80% of any building costs would be state aided.
Robert W. Christmann
Superintendent
Grand Island Central School District

Schools Closed For Holidays - Dec. 2008
   Grand Island schools will be closed beginning December 22nd and will reopen on January 5, 2009.

Special School Board Meeting - Dec. 15, 2008
   A special School Board meeting will be held 5:30 p.m. Monday, December 15, 2008 in the District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. See "12/15/08 Meeting Agenda."

School Board Meeting - Dec. 8, 2008
   Monday, December 8, 2008 . . .See "12/8/08 Buffalo News Story" by Buffalo News correspondent Kevin Purdy.

Say Thank You to an SRP Today! - 2008

The officers and building representatives pictured are from left to right, front row: Denise McMahon (Transportation Rep.), Ann Marie Stewart (Nurse Rep.), Dave Cole (VP SRP). Back row: John Glose (Buildings & Grounds Rep.), Jane Azbell (Food Service Rep.), Darlene Spratford (Transportation Rep.), Linda Lichtenthal (President SRP), Barb Baran (Food Service Rep). Absent from the picture were Sue Nardozzi (Technology Rep.), Anna Bruno (Secretary) and Jane Boyle (Treasurer).
Click photo for larger view
   New York State School Related Professionals Day – November 18, 2008 - was a day to recognize and honor the school support staff who help educate, transport and feed our children along with those who keep our schools clean, safe, and keep the offices running smoothly. The officers and building representatives of Grand Island Central School District got together on this special day for a short meeting to review accomplishments from the past year and to discuss their future path for the upcoming new year.
   Thank you to all of the service related professionals for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

School Board Meeting Agenda - Dec. 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 8 p.m. Monday, December 8, 2008 in Huth Road Elementary School with a building tour at 6 p.m. and Huth Road 50th Anniversary Celebration at 6:30 p.m. See Monday, Dec. 8, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Meeting Agenda - Nov. 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, November 24, 2008 in Charlotte Sidway Elementary School with a building tour at 6:30 p.m. See Monday, Nov. 24, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School District News
Children Ages Newborn Through 5 Years of Age - 2008
   Wednesday, November 20, 2008 . . .Attention Grand Island Residents with Children Ages Newborn through 5 Years of Age…
   To effectively plan for the 2009-2010 school year, we would like to know how many children reside on Grand Island who are eligible for kindergarten enrollment in September 2009. Any child who will reach their 5th birthday before December 1, 2009 is eligible to attend kindergarten next school year.
    Please call the district office at 773-8800 (ext. 0) or 773-8819 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and give your name, your child’s name, child’s date of birth, address and telephone number. At that time, you will need to bring proof of residency, immunization records, an original birth certificate and custody papers, if applicable.
    We ask that you call even if you do not plan on sending your child to kindergarten next year or plan on sending your child to a private or parochial school. This information will assist our transportation department, state and federal funding.
    We would also appreciate calls from parents/guardians of children ages newborn to 4 years of age residing on Grand Island for future enrollment projections.

Sale of Eco Island Land Addressed at School Board Meeting - 2008
   Monday, November 10, 2008 . . .See "11/11/08 Buffalo News Story" by Buffalo News correspondent Kevin Purdy.

School Board Meeting Agenda - Nov. 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2008 in room 108, Grand Island High School. See "Monday, Nov. 10, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

The Bridge - November 2008

Grand Island Central School District Introduces e-News - October 2008
    Grand Island Central School District is pleased to introduce e-News. E-News is a service that allows Grand Island parents, students, faculty/staff and community members to sign up to receive e-mails and/or text messages on school related information.
    E-News makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with important news, events and emergency notifications in Grand Island schools. Once registered with e-News, individuals automatically receive news of interest at their selected e-mail address or cell phone.
    Even better, e-News is an opt-in service for residents and parents. Individuals tailor the service to meet their needs by selecting only the categories of information that is of interest to them. These categories are listed under "Subscribe Me To These Lists" on the e-News section of the Grand Island Central School Web page. Also, individuals may opt-out of e-News, or change e-News categories, at any time, just by revising their information at the site.
    "We hope everyone will join us on Grand Island e-News! Just complete the simple steps on the Grand Island Central School District Web page at http://www.k12.ginet.org," a spokesman for the District said this week.

Community Education Youth Basketball Program - Nov. 2008
   October 23, 2008 . . .The Grand Island Community Education Youth Basketball Program will begin on November 7th. The program is open to students ages 6 through 13. The program cost is $60 and the registration deadline date is November 1st. Contact the Community Education Dept. at 773 8864 for information on how to register or visit our website at K12.ginet.org
    Community Education is also looking for instructors to teach for the Winter 2009 session. For additional information, contact the office.

Attention Residents with Children Ages Newborn through 5 Years of Age - October 2008
The following has been submitted by Theresa LeClerc, Public Relations Associate, Erie 1 BOCES
     To effectively plan for the 2009-2010 school year, we would like to know how many children reside on Grand Island who are eligible for kindergarten enrollment in September 2009. Any child who will reach their 5th birthday on or before December 1, 2009 is eligible to attend kindergarten next school year.
    Please call the district office at 773-8819 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and give your name, your child’s name, child’s date of birth, address and telephone number.
    We ask that you call even if you do not plan on sending your child to kindergarten next year or plan on sending your child to a private or parochial school. This information will assist our transportation department, state and federal funding.
    We would also appreciate calls from parents/guardians of children ages newborn to 4 years of age residing on Grand Island for future enrollment projections.

School Board Meeting Agenda - October 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, October 20, 2008 in room 108, Grand Island High School. See "Monday, Oct. 20, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

Schools Closed For Columbus Day Holiday - October 2008
    Grand Island schools will be closed Monday, October 13 for the Columbus Day holiday.

School Board Meeting Agenda - October 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 8, 2008 at Eco Island (tour 6:30 p.m.). See "Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Meeting Agenda - September 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday, September 29, 2008 in High School Room 124, Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, Sept. 29, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Announces Renovation Projects - 2008
   See "9/24/08 Buffalo News Story" by Buffalo News correspondent Kevin Purdy.

School Board Meeting Agenda - September 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2008 in Kaegebein Elementary School, Love Road. See "Monday, Sept. 22, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

Special Board of Education Meeting - 2008
   A special Board of Education meeting will be held in the High School Technology Room 124, 1100 Ransom Road at 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 16, 2008:
AGENDA
I. PUBLIC SESSION
   A. Discussion of Possible Capital Project
II. ADJOURN

School District Cuts Costs - 2008
   See "9/9/08 Buffalo News Story".

Community Education Fall 2008 Session - 2008
   Sept. 9, 2008 . . . Grand Island Community Education classes for Fall 2008 will begin on Monday, September 22. Walk-in registration will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the same day, in the foyer of the Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road. The Bridge and Community Education brochures have now been combined and were mailed to each household the week of September 8th. For additional information, call Community Education at 773-8864.
   The Grand Island Community Education Fall Brochure may also be viewed and registration forms downloaded online at www.k12.ginet.org (link Departments & Service)

Protecting, Preserving Your Investment in Our Schools - 2008

   Sept. 4, 2008 School District Release . . .If you've driven by any of the school buildings this summer you may have noticed the ongoing construction work that has taken place. This is phase four of Grand Island Central School District’s EXCEL Capital Project in full swing. The 30+ year old masonry work is being repaired at the Ransom Road Campus, Kaegebein Elementary, Charlotte Sidway Elementary and Huth Road Elementary schools.
   The 3.9 million dollar EXCEL Capital Project, passed by residents in December 2006, addresses health, safety, and maintenance issues. Immediate concerns included roof repair, masonry restoration, emergency generators, telephone technology, and many basic infrastructure needs. Implementation of the EXCEL Capital Project has been at no cost to local taxpayers. The Capital Project is funded entirely by utilizing state building aid and funds available through EXCEL aid - a one time grant that required voter approval.

School Board Meeting Agenda - September 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, September 8, 2008 in High School Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, September 8, 2008 Meeting Agenda"

School District Bond Rating Upgraded to A1 - 2008
    Following in the footsteps of the Town of Grand Island’s recent bond rating upgrade, Moody’s Investors Service has also improved Grand Island Central School District’s bond rating to A1.
    Moody’s cites the district’s bond rating upgrade from A2 to A1 to strong management and fiscal performance in a growing tax base. Grand Island Central School District is now one of only five A1 districts in all of Western New York. Other A1 rated school districts include Clarence, Iroquois, Orchard Park and Lancaster.
    "A bond rating of A1 reduces the district’s borrowing costs and interest rates. Upgrades in the district's bond rating will affect the price others are willing to pay for the district's bonds. This will reduce the financial impact for the taxpayers of future capital funding needs thereby placing the district in a strong financial position as it take future debt needs to the marketplace. Investors look favorable on municipal bonds that have a strong credit standing," says Loraine Ingrasci, assistant superintendent for finance and support services.
    The improved financial position of Grand Island Central School District over the last four fiscal years is a result of conservative budgeting of revenues and expenditures, primarily in the areas of state aid, health care benefits, and salary costs. Moody anticipates the district will maintain a strong financial position given a history of conservative budgeting and effective expenditure management that has resulted in healthy reserve levels.
     “The improved bond rating for both the district and the town confirms the fiscal integrity of both organizations,” states Robert Christmann, superintendent of schools for Grand Island Central School District. “We have worked very hard over the past several years to put the school district on the strongest financial footing possible. Part of our planning involves limiting expenses and generating additional sources of revenue. Moving to an A-1 rating from our old A-2 designation will save our taxpayers thousands of dollars over both the long and short term. We will continue on the path we’ve begun - to build confidence in the financial management of those dollars entrusted to us by the Grand Island community.”

New School District Photo Policy - 2008
   See "8/28/08 Buffalo News Story".

Openings At YWCA After School Program - 2008
     Back to school time is here and the YWCA of the Tonawandas has openings for before and after school child care in Kaegebein, Huth and Sidway Elementary Schools. Our program offers high quality, affordable and dependable school based child care. Children enjoy active games, playground time, arts and crafts, board games and quiet time for reading and homework assistance in a safe environment. Staff prepares special themed and holiday projects for the children as well as group challenges that help the children explore topics in math, science and social studies. Staff members are screened and attend continuous training programs to help insure a quality program. The YWCA School Age Care Program is registered with New York State and complies with all regulations set forth by the Office of Children and Family Services. This is a great place for your child to enjoy the before and after school time making new friends and enjoying old friends. If you have any questions or would like an application please call 692-5580. Applications are also available at www.ywca.org/tonawandas
     The YWCA of the Tonawandas is accepting applications for staff for the School Age Care Program at Sidway, Huth and Kaegebein Elementary Schools. Staff assists children with arts and crafts, games, outside sports and play, homework assistance and special group projects. The program meets from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can work one or both shifts or a flexible schedule between shifts. CPR/first aid and child care training are provided. This is a great opportunity for college students who are contemplating a career involved with children and others who enjoy working with children. For more information or an application call 692-5580 and ask for Lori or JoAnn.

School Board Meeting - August 18, 2008
    See Buffalo News Story by Kevin Purdy.

School Board Meeting Agenda - August 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, August 25, 2008 in Connor Middle School Little Theater, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, Aug. 25, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Meeting Agenda - August 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday, August 18, 2008 in Connor Middle School Little Theater, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, Aug. 18, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Hires Teacher - August 2008
    See 7/29/08 Buffalo News Story by Kevin Purdy.

School Board Meeting Agenda - August 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, August 11, 2008 in Connor Middle School Little Theater, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, Aug. 11, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

Board of Education Adopts CDEP for 2008-2011 - 2008

Click photo for larger view
   The Board of Education for Grand Island Central School District adopted a Comprehensive District Education Plan (CDEP) on Monday, July 28 that will set the academic course for the next three years.
   This extensive plan was a collaboration of more than 40 members including administrators, faculty, staff, grade level chairpersons, Board of Education members, and parents. Dr. Karen Karmazin, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, has facilitated the CDEP committee since its inception in 2002.
   Comprehensive planning is a data-driven, results-based planning process. It is a continuous progression in which the key to improving results is improving the system. The objective of the CDEP is to:
• Improve the educational performance of all students.
• Provide for No Child Left Behind (NCLB) by addressing all plans under one umbrella (Academic Intervention Services (AIS), Professional Development Plan (PDP), Technology, Guidance and Annual Professional Performance Review Plan (APPR)).
• Link the use of local, state and federal resources in the planning process.
• Combine district and school academic planning processes into a comprehensive system that fosters systems thinking.
   The CDEP fully encompasses all facets of curriculum and instruction at Grand Island schools. “Comprehensive planning aligns our curriculum with NYS learning standards,” states Dr. Karen Karmazin, “and when a planning committee has ownership of the process, the plan is more likely to be successfully implemented at all levels”.
   A complete copy of the CDEP for Grand Island Central School District is available on the Web site at: www.k12.ginet.org – District Services – Curriculum & Instruction – District Plans.

GIHS Art Club Brings Patriotic Art to Life - 2008

Click photo for larger view
   The weather was hot and sticky but six members of the Grand Island High School Art Club, and one member from Huth Road Elementary, acted out a sculptural scene on the lawn of the Albright Knox Art Gallery as part of the Art Alive competition on Saturday, June 7.
   The teenagers wore long sleeved shirts and pants, military helmets and heavy boots - all coated with layers of acrylic paint. They endured two hours in the heat as they “struggled” to plant the American flag over a hand built version of Iwo Jima. To make the re-enactment of the Marine Corps War Memorial by Felix de Weldon more “alive,” the group called out encouragement to each other as they raised Old Glory above their heads. A young paper-carrier waved a newspaper containing an image of Joe Rosenthal’s famous photograph of the flag being raised over Iwo Jima, from which the sculpture was inspired.
   A record 43 groups participated in this year’s Art Alive competition and Grand Island was proud to walk away with one of the six prizes awarded.
   The students pictured as soldiers in the living sculpture are Kahla Cerrillo, Samantha Ducette, Carmela Gentile, Sara Johnson, Tim Lewis, and Molly Wynne. Bethany Wynne portrayed the paper carrier. The painting and construction, organized by Pat Sexton and Taylor Bedford, took place during weekly art club meetings. Members include Danya Abdellatif, Matt Arida, David Benko, Kenneth Cerrillo, Dina Dahlke, Khaliah Ford, TJ Howley, Taylor Kaufman, Tom McDonnell, Kevin Neary, Alex Richter, Megan Wagner, Sarah Webb, and Andrea Wilson. Many former art club graduates came to Buffalo to cheer on the Grand Island team. Mrs. Cynthia Wynne, the art club advisor, would like to thank Mrs. Cerrillo, Mrs. Ducette, Mrs. Johnson, and Mr. Wynne for chaperoning the event.

School Board Meeting Agenda - July 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, July 28, 2008 in High School Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, July 28, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

School Board Report - July 14, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, George Casey, James Hanna, Tom Franz, Neil Seaman, Superintendent Robert Christmann;

   Monday, July 14, 2008 . . .
The school board meeting began with an organizational meeting at which the board president and vice president were elected with Richard Little Jr. remaining as president and Neil Seaman becoming the new vice president. A motion was made to approve 32 Board of Education appointments and also the appointment of delegates for the Erie County Assoc. of School Boards and the PTA.
   The public session followed with the announcement of the addition of a new fountain in the high school courtyard. Class of 2007 Secretary Alicia Barnaby was on hand to announce the Class of 2007 purchased the fountain with leftover funds from their fundraising activities over the high school years. It was announced that the late Grand Island High School football and baseball coach Gene J. Masters is an inductee into the New York State Public High School Athletic Assoc. (NYSPSAA) Hall of Fame, a very prestigious honor. Grand Island High School has also recieved the NYSPSAA Award for Sportsmanship.
   A letter was received thanking the district for the superb job done as a last minute venue replacement for the NYSSMA Spring Music Festival. Over 1800 students from across Western New York attended the festival held at the high school.
   Business & Finance:
    A letter was received from a concerned resident questioning how the new district phone system was chosen. Asst. Superintendent of Finance Loraine Ingrasci noted the decision was made to go with a Nortel system as it ties in with the BOCES system.
    A request for proposal was completed for a school physician after Dr. Maria Jereva resigned. Two prospects are being interviewed and an announcement will be made soon.
   Superintendent Robert Christmann recommended that an additional 3rd grade teacher be hired for Huth Road Elementary due to higher enrollment figures. Due to lower enrollment in high school general music class, a part-time position was reduced by .2 and the teacher resigned. There is to be a reshuffling of teachers and no change in service to take over the duties by current staff.
   Due to the increase in gas prices, the Transportation Dept. budget is under-funded at this time. The situation is being closely monitored.
   Other News:
• Liability insurance costs have been reduced by being a safer school after taking recommendations from the school insurance companies.
• Meetings are scheduled with the school administrators and the district architect to go over the individual lists sent recently by the administrators regarding district capital projects wish list.
• Summer school has started and Mr. Christmann reported some classes being cancelled due to low enrollment. Grand Island has taken students into the summer school program from the Tonawanda school district with the Grand Island district being fully reimbursed.
   Trustee James Hanna tendered his resignation dated July 15, 2008 as he is moving out of the area. Superintendent Christmann, President Richard Little and other board members thanked Mr. Hanna for his years of service to the community.

Monday, August 11, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, August 18, 2008 - Planning Workshop, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, August 25, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.

Teacher Being Hired For Huth Rd. Elementary - July 2008
    See 7/15/08 Buffalo News Story by Kevin Purdy.

School Board Organizational Meeting Agenda - July 2008
    A School Board organizational meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, July 14, 2008 in Connor Middle School Room 113, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, July 14 Organizational Meeting Agenda.

School Board Meeting Agenda - July 2008
    A School Board meeting will be held 6 p.m. Monday, July 14, 2008, 2008 in Connor Middle School Room 113, 1100 Ransom Road. See "Monday, July 14, 2008 Meeting Agenda.

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