High School Concert Choir Level 6-Gold
Middle School Singcopations Level 3-Gold with Distinction
Middle School 7/8 Band Level 3-Gold
Middle School Orchestra Level 2-Silver
Middle School 6th Grade Band Level 2-Silver
Kaegebein Concert Band Level 1-Gold
Huth Road Concert Band Level 1-Gold

School Board Meeting Agenda - Mayday, May 12, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2008 in Connor Middle School Little Theater, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 5/12/08




Three To Run For Board of Education Seats - 2008
   Grand Island residents on Tuesday, May 20, will vote to fill two seats for the Grand Island Board of Education. The Budget/Trustee vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Grand Island High School gym. The following residents have turned petitions in to run for two open board seats on the Board of Education:
Myrna F. Blair

FAMILY: She and her husband, Noel, have been married 48 years and have three children and five grandchildren. All three of their children graduated from Grand Island High School (her youngest with an IEP diploma).
OCCUPATION: She has a BS degree from the UB School of Management with an accounting major and a MS in education from Canisius College. She recently completed her last year as a tax accountant for Christine A. Learman, CPA, PC. In the past, she has taught Math 9, 10, 11, and 12 at Tonawanda Senior High School. She has passed the exam and is an Enrolled Agent under the IRS, which means she can represent tax clients before the IRS. Presently she keeps books for a couple of small companies.
INTERESTS: In addition to family, work and board service, she helped found the Grand Island Foundation (for Education) and served as president for the first few years.
EXPERIENCE: Served as a Grand Island Central School District Board of Education Trustee from 1996-2004 and 2005 to present; served as Vice President from 2003-2004. Erie County Association of School Boards Executive Committee 2000-2004 and 2007-2008. State Legislative Network (SLN) 1999-2004. Federal Relations Network (FRN) 1999-2004. Board liaison to Comprehensive District Educational Planning Committee 2002-2004.
REASONS FOR SEEKING BOARD SEAT: “I love kids and I love education. I want to serve so I can see that each child gets the best education we are capable of giving at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer. I particularly enjoy the camaraderie of this board and would like to have it continue. This year in particular, my son, Noel Jr., is moving to Grand Island and three of my grandchildren will be in Grand Island schools; two will attend Huth Road Elementary and one will attend Charlotte Sidway Elementary. Although I would like to serve regardless of having a vested interest, I am truly ecstatic about my grand "babies" coming to the Island.”

Richard J. Little, Jr.

FAMILY: He and his wife, Sonja, have been married for 13 years and have three children ages 12, 10, and 8. All three of their children attend Grand Island schools.
OCCUPATION: Employed by Cannon Design of Grand Island as Associate Architecture/Project Manager and has been in the architectural field since June of 1989.
INTERESTS: Outdoor activities - sports, camping and playing with his children.
EXPERIENCE: He is currently serving his 3rd year as a Grand Island Board of Education Trustee. From 2006 to the present he has served as the Board of Education President for the Grand Island Central School District.
REASONS FOR SEEKING BOARD SEAT: “It has been a great learning experience participating on the Grand Island Board of Education. I have been a part of many new and exciting changes. As I have said to many people in the past, we all sit around the table and express concerns; by serving on the Grand Island Board of Education we have the ability to make a difference. I look forward to continuing my service to the children and residents of Grand Island.”

Penny L. Moher

FAMILY: She is the mother of two adult children and three grandchildren between the ages of two and seven.
OCCUPATION: She has fifteen years of accounting and management experience and holds a BS in accounting from the University of South Florida. She is currently employed as a Business Analyst and Banking Officer at M&T Bank. Previously, she was an Assistant Controller for a property management and development company.
INTERESTS: Most of her recreational time is spent shuttling around her grandson to various activities (hockey, karate, baseball, soccer and music lessons). Two weeks of her summer are spent as a volunteer staff member at a camp located in Little Valley, NY. She was recently certified as a lifeguard due to the camp needing a lifeguard on staff.
EXPERIENCE: Attendance and participation of school board activities in the Rush-Henrietta school district. Most importantly, she is a parent that cares about our children's education.
REASONS FOR SEEKING BOARD SEAT: “I graduated from Grand Island High School and left the region for many years. Our family returned to Grand Island in the year 2000 and my grandson is currently a first-grader at Charlotte Sidway Elementary School. I believe Grand Island is a great community for raising a family. It is important to me that we provide the students of Grand Island the best education possible. I would like to apply my business and parenting experiences to represent the taxpayers and parents of Grand Island, in decisions that will affect the future of our children and community.”

   Information about the Board of Education: The Board of Education of the Grand Island Central School District is governed by seven (7) members, elected at large by the qualified voters of the school district at the annual election as prescribed by law. Members serve overlapping terms of three (3) years, and each term expires on the thirtieth (30) day of June of the third year. The members of the Board have clearly defined duties, which are understood by members of the Board and citizens of the district.
1. Members of Board of Education shall contribute to the development of the specifications describing the various duties of the officers of the Board.
2. Officers appointed by the Board shall have their positions and duties stated prior to their acceptance of the position.
3. Revisions of the job specifications may be made only after careful consideration by all members of the Board.




Letting Go - Model Transition Programs - 2008
       The Model Transition Programs (MTP) of Grand Island and Tonawanda present "Letting Go" from 6-8 p.m. Monday, May 5, 2008 at Tonawanda High School, 150 Hinds Street, Room 100, Tonawanda, NY.
   Also to be presented from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 22 at Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road is "Planning Ahead: Middle School to High School." See Letting Go for complete information.



Kindergarten Orientation at Charlotte Sidway Elementary School - 2008
    An orientation program for kindergarten children registered for 2008/2009 in the Grand Island Central School District will be held at Charlotte Sidway School on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at 12:30 P.M. This program is designed for new kindergarteners and their parents only, no siblings please.
    We invite all registered children and their parents to attend. A special program for the new kinder-kids will include classroom activities and a ride on the big yellow bus. While the boys and girls are actively engaged in classrooms, parents will participate in an informative workshop. At the conclusion of the program there will be an opportunity to tour the building.
     For questions regarding the orientation program, please call 773-8870.




School Board Report - April 22, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, George Casey, James Hanna, Tom Franz, Superintendent Robert Christmann;
absent: Neil Seaman
   Tuesday, April 22, 2008 . . . High School math teacher and modified basketball coach Dan Sweeney has been chosen as a recipient of a University of Rochester Singer Family Prize for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching. This award is achieved by a nomination from a senior at U. of R. who wants to recognize and honor a high school teacher who significantly influenced him/her. With the honor comes an individual award of $3,000 and an award to the high school of $2,500. The winning teachers will be honored during Commencement weekend in May.
   Emedco, a WNY manufacturer of safety and security products has honored two Grand Island students for excellence in academics, athletics, service and leadership. This year's selected senior students are Jordon Toth and Ciara Morreale.
   Curriculum: Grand Island School District is the first in Western New York to acquire the Infinite Campus Software system. It is an Education Process Management (EPM) system. A meeting was recently held where 22 administrators, faculty and staff met to discuss the new technology. Eventually, parents will be able to go online to look over their children's grades.
   Business & Finance:
    The long awaited generators for the Ransom Road campus are due to arrive on May 12 and should be installed over the Memorial Day long weekend.
   Superintendent Robert Christmann invited interested members of the community to join the Transportation/School Planning committee which is now forming. This committee will be discussing the feasibility of having the high school and middle school start and finish times coincide. Those interested are asked to contact the district office for more information.
   The Project Sticker Shock program sponsored by the One Island, One Team, One Dream group is moving forward. The committee is awaiting permission from local stores to place stickers on alcoholic beverages, reminding adults not to serve minors alcohol.
   The policy for the participation of home schooled students in intramural sports has been adopted. The regulations and forms will be on the Grand Island High School website on Wednesday, April 23, 2008.
   Other News:
• Mr. Christmann thanked the NYS School Board Association for bringing attention to and lobbying for the State Police School Resource Officers to remain at the schools.
• There is an estimated 1.9% school tax rate increase for 2008-2009. Vote is Tuesday, May 20th.
• Two recipients of Chamber Citizen of the Year honor for 2007 are district employees: SRP employee Mrs. Dolly D'Orazio and Huth Road music teacher Mrs. Carol Horrigan.
   Recently Superintendent Christmann and high school technology teacher Mrs. Cheryl Chamberlain met with representatives from General Motors at the River Road plant. The Grand Island School District has been selected as one of four schools in the area to have two students considered for a $45,000 scholarship, internship and employment at General Motors after graduation. The chosen students will be enrolling in either engineering or business programs and will be required to fill out an application and interview at GM. Mr. Christmann stated he believes Grand Island was chosen because of the high school's addition of "Project Lead The Way," a new pre-engineering program teaming up with the Rochester Institute of Technology.
   A story reported in the media on Tuesday, April 22nd regarding the high school was incorrect. A bullet from a rifle was found in a hallway and reported to administrators. As a precautionary measure, New York State troopers brought in a canine unit to check for firearms. The school was never in lock-down mode, but was in "hold and place" where students and staff are restricted to rooms until an area is clear. There was never a risk as the evidence proved no threat and no weapon was found. Mr. Christmann stated that the situation was planned by a student to cause excitement and the student should be identified in the next few days.

Monday, May 12, 2008 - Budget Hearing - 6:30 p.m. followed by a regular meeting, Middle School Little Theater - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 - 2008-09 Budget Vote - Grand Island High School Gym - 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, June 9, 2008 - Retiree Reception - 6:00 p.m. followed by a regular business meeting - 7:00 p.m. - CDEP Review - Scholar Athletes - High School Large Cafeteria

Monday, June 23, 2008 - Regular business meeting - 7:00 p.m., High School Room 108 - CDEP Approval





School Board Candidates Announced - 2008
    April 22, 2008 . . .The following candidates have handed in completed petitions for the two available Board of Education seats:
Penny Moher
Myrna Blair
Richard Little, Jr.
    The election takes place from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 20 in the Grand Island High School.




School District Absentee Ballot - 2008
    On Tuesday, May 20, 2008 Grand Island residents will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the school district budget vote and trustees. For those voters who qualify, absentee ballots will be available. Of course, there are specific reasons for the use of absentee ballots. See Absentee Ballot Information and Absentee Ballot.




School Board Meeting Agenda - Tuesday, April 22, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2008 in Grand Island High School High School Large Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 4/22/08




Health And Wellness Fair April 26, 2008
    The Grand Island Central School District Health and Wellness Council will sponsor a “Health and Wellness Fair” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 26th at Veronica E. Connor Middle School, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, New York.
    There will be plenty of free food, fun activities, blood pressure checks, and free massages for the entire family. Participating organizations, groups, and businesses include:
• American Family Dental Group
• American Heart Association
• Buffalo In-Line Hockey Group
• Curves
• GIFTS
• Grand Island Central School District Technology Department
• Grand Island Chamber of Commerce
• Grand Island Fitness Center
• Grand Island Optical
• Grand Island Recreation Dept.
• Independent Health
• Island Chiropractic
• Lion’s Club
• Miss Cathy’s Dance and Fitness
• Model Transition Program (MTP)
• Mt. St. Mary’s Hospital
• Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center
• The MOG
• Tops
• UB Medical School
• UB School of Pharmacy




2008 Grand Island Youth Lacrosse - April 2008
    April 9, 2008 . . .The 2008 Grand Island Youth Lacrosse League for grades 3 through 5 will begin on May 13th. No experience is necessary. Flyers with registration forms were distributed to the students at Kaegebein and Huth Rd schools. Email amynicolia@k12.ginet.org or call the Community Ed. Dept. at 773-8864 for a registration copy. For additional program information, contact Steve Steck via email at stevensteck@yahoo.com




Budget Restores Funding For School Resource Officers
Grand Island To Benefit, Hoyt Praises Christmann - April 2008
    April 9, 2008 . . .Assemblymember Sam Hoyt (D-Buffalo, Grand Island) announced this week the restoration of state funding for ninety-two school resource officers (SRO’s) currently serving in schools throughout New York State. “I am pleased to announce that the 2008-09 New York State budget includes much needed funding for these valued members of the education community,” said Hoyt.
    SRO’s statewide responded to over 3,600 calls in 2007 including 853 criminal calls in school districts throughout New York. When former Governor Eliot Spitzer announced removing resource officers in his executive budget, many educators became concerned over the potential increase of criminal activity that could occur inside schools.
    “The costs associated with removing one school resource officer from a school pales in comparison to its impact on the school community when these vital officers are taken away,” said Hoyt.
    Hoyt also commended Grand Island school superintendent Robert W. Christmann and the many thousands of members of the school community statewide for their hard work and effort to convince state leaders to bring back the SRO’s. Christmann said Assemblymember Hoyt’s leadership was instrumental in continuing a very necessary level of safety by having SRO State Troopers directly assigned to our public school buildings.
    “All of us who are in any way associated with schools, including staff, parents and most importantly the students themselves who were very actively supporting their SRO, are deeply appreciative of Assemblymember Hoyt’s efforts and hard work on our behalf to keep us safe,” Christmann said.




School Board Report - April 7, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, George Casey, James Hanna, Tom Franz, Superintendent Robert Christmann;
absent: Neil Seaman
   Monday, April 7, 2008 . . . In district "good news" Superintendent Robert Christmann congratulated the Veronica Connor Middle School staff and students on the recent stage production "Mulan, Jr." Winter scholar athletes were recognized with the distinction of all varsity teams making the grade. The students were treated to an ice cream social, received a t-shirt and pin before the school board meeting. The teams and coaches are:
• Girls Basketball - 92%, Coach Jenepher Banker
• Boys Basketball - 90.86%, Coach Greg Ross
• Boys Swimming - 90.15%, Coach Rob Collard
• Wrestling - 90.4%, Coach Jeff Johnston
• Boys & Girls Bowling - 90.3 & 90.6, Coach Craig Davis
• Boys & Girls Indoor Track - 90.2% & 90.13%, Coach Don Sauer.
If Grand Island spring varsity sports teams all achieve scholar athlete status as the fall and winter teams did, the high school will be named a NYS School of Distinction. This has only happened eight times in the past, state-wide. The program was initiated in the 1991-1992 school year.
   Curriculum: The Universal Pre-K program has been allocated $158,000 for 2008-2009 school year and that will allow 16 more students into the program, up from 42 students enrolled this year.
   Business & Finance: Assistant Superintendent for Finance Loraine Ingrasci reviewed the two propositions that will be placed on the ballots during the next Budget vote. They are $672,000 earmarked for bus and vehicle purchases and the establishment of a Capital Reserve Fund. A report card from the 2005-2006 audit showed that the cost per student, per year was $7,200. That is less than the state average which is $9,200 and less than similar schools in socio-economic parity at $8,400.
      Revisions to the school budget for 2008-2009 include:
• A savings of $200,000 attributed to the adjustment in district retirements.
• The addition of the purchase of a bass clarinet for the music department.
• An increase in substitute teacher pay of $2 per day. This puts the district in the upper third of the pay ladder of WNY school districts.
• The addition of "Project Lead The Way," a pre-engineering program teamed up with the Rochester Institute of Technology.
• The reinstatement of the Junior Achievement program in two grades of the elementary schools.
• It was reported that there is a decrease of $144,000 in the budget from last week. The current rate of $38.33 per thousand will increase to a projected rate of $39.08, an increase of $.75 per thousand.
    A health and wellness fair is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2008 at the Veronica Connor Middle School from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with many activities for the whole family.
   Superintendent's Report:
   Superintendent Christmann reported that the School Resource Officer program was saved in the state budget thanks to the efforts of Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, State Senator Dale Volker and many teachers, parents and students in the Grand Island School District.
   The newly formed Transportation/School Planning Committee will hold its first meeting in early May. The committee, comprised of administrators, teachers, students, parents, community members and transportation employees, was formed to address the feasibility of combining the start times of middle school and high school students. This would eliminate a bus run and save the district money. Also to be discussed is the elimination of busing students in walking districts.
   The annual Celebration of Inspiration will be held on Wednesday, April 9th at 7:00 p.m.
   Two high school student bands will be competing in the Music Is Art Foundation’s “High School Battle of the Bands” at HSBC Arena on Thursday, April 10th. They are two of six bands picked out of 150 entries from WNY.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m. Trustee Vote, Election Inspectors

Monday, May 12, 2008 - Budget Hearing - 6:30 p.m. Followed by a regular Meeting, Middle School Little Theater - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.





School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, April 7, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, April 7, 2008 in Grand Island High School High School Large Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 4/7/08




School Board Report - March 31, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, Neil Seaman, George Casey, James Hanna, Tom Franz, Superintendent Robert Christmann
   Monday, March 31, 2008 . . . In district "good news" the School Board acknowledged outstanding students in the Kenton Program. The Kenton Professional of the Month for January/February is Alicia Camizzi who is in the Early Childhood Education II program. The Kenton Student of the Month is Joe Romano, a student in the Culinary Skills I program. Both will be receiving certificates of achievement for their efforts. School district attorney Ronald Mendrick was recently honored by being named to the "Best Lawyers in America" publication. SRP employee Kathy Volk was recently honored at an Erie County 2008 Awards for Excellence banquet. She was one of four recognized by the county.
   In the consent agenda portion of the meeting, Superintendent Robert Christmann pointed out that if an individual wants to make a donation to the school district, it cannot be guaranteed to be applied to a particular area, although a request may be made. A program titled "A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety" will be presented in Sidway School at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8, 2008. GICSD Instructional Technology teacher Jamie Mancuso and school resource officer Trooper Christopher Pyc will be the featured speakers.
   Business & Finance: Assistant Superintendent for Finance Loraine Ingrasci spoke of the upcoming budget and explained that with the addition of group homes on Grand Island comes the responsibility of transporting residents to their schools. The state reimburses the district 105% of the cost. Although the budget is still being "tweaked" at this time, the tax levy is $497,000 and the projected tax rate increase is approximately 2.4%. A meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school large cafeteria, for adoption of the 2008-2009 budget. The GICSD was described as a "healthy district" and financially sound with over $200,000 in reserve funds. The school board was asked to look over a list of programs that have been eliminated over the last five years and if a board member wants to add back into the budget, the member must notify the district by Friday, April 4th. The goal is to make the tax rate as low as possible while still adhering to state guidelines.
      -There has been a hold-up in the shipping of the generators for each school. When delivered, the equipment will be installed on a Saturday so as not to interfere with the school day.
      -The district wide telephone project has been approved by the state and installation should take place over the summer break.
      -A motion was approved to appoint LP Ciminelli for pre-referendum construction management services at no cost to the district as the company has volunteered.
      -The board voted in favor of a resolution to create a Capital Reserve Account and place on the May ballot. This would allow the district to save towards future building needs. Voters would have to okay any withdrawals from the account. The board approved a 10 million dollar limit to the fund.
      -Reinstated a proposition for flexibility of bus purchases and other transportation such as new plows, etc.
   Superintendent Report:
      -New York State Shared Decision Making Plan was approved by the state.
      -Superintendent Christmann gave an update on the removal of School Resource Officers proposed by former Governor Elliot Spitzer. An outpouring of support district and statewide seems to be making an impact. Petitions that have been placed in the GICSD faculty rooms will be brought into the middle and high school lunch rooms this week. Posters and banners created by the students of Sidway School will be posted in the high school Viking Mall and then sent to Albany.
      -An arrest has been made in the hacking of the district computer system earlier in the year. Superintendent Christmann commended the efforts of Director of Instructional Technology Molly Talty and SRO Trooper Pyc, along with the New York State Police and their computer expert in Batavia for tracking down the suspect in the "very sophisticated" enterprise.
      -Celebration of Inspiration is scheduled for April 9, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium.
      -Project Sticker Shock is moving ahead with the efforts of volunteers to label all alcoholic beverages sold, with the warning that arrests will be made to minors caught drinking. This is an initiative of the "One Island, One Team, One Dream" organization.
      -The public session held regarding the Home Schooling/Extracurricular Participation did not elicit negative comments. The consensus of all the school board members was that the home schooled students not ever displace any of the district students. All state and school policies must be adhered to. A policy to be made by district administration will be drawn up at the convenience of the district, not to interfere with the budget process at hand. A vote of three against: Seaman, Blair and Casey, and for: Franz, Hanna, Little and Bobeck was taken to create said policy. The policy would be on a one-school-year trial basis.

Monday, April 7, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Large Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m.
Adoption of 2008-09 Budget, Budget Communications Planning, NYS Scholar Athlete Teams

Monday, April 22, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.
Trustee Vote, Election Inspectors

Monday, May 12, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.





State Troopers Arrest High School Student For Computer Hacking - April 2008
    See "4/2/08 Buffalo News Story" by Barbara O’Brien.




Notice of Public Hearing and Budget Vote - 2008
A public hearing regarding the 2008-2009 District Budget will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2008 in Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road. The Annual District Meeting, Election and Budget Vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m Tuesday, May 20, 2008. See School District Public Hearing/Budget Vote/Election for complete information.




Joint Town/School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, March 31, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 6 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2008 in Grand Island High School High School Small Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 3/31/08




MEETING NOTICE - March 2008
A Joint Grand Island Town Board/School Board Meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2008 in the Grand Island High School Small Cafeteria.




Schools Closed - March 28, 2008
Grand Island schools will be closed on Friday, March 28 for Superintendent's Day.




School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, March 24, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, March 24, 2008 in Grand Island High School, District Office, 1100 Ransom Road - 7 p.m. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 3/24/08




Public Hearing Addresses Extracurricular
Activities for Home Schooled, Nonpublic School Students - March 2008
    See "3/13/08 Buffalo News Story" by Kevin Purdy.




School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, March 10, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Monday, March 10, 2008 in Grand Island High School, Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road - 7 p.m. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 3/10/08




Petitions To Run For School Board Available - 2008
    Petitions to run for the Grand Island Board of Education are available from Janet Schuster, District Clerk, beginning Monday, March 17, 2008 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. There are two (3) three-year terms to be filled.
    The qualifications to run for the Board of Education are: (1) you must be a citizen of the US, (2) you must be at least 18 years of age, (3) you must be a resident of the district for one year prior to the election, and (4) you must be able to read and write.
    Petitions must be returned to the District Clerk no later than 5:00pm on Monday, April 21, 2008.




School Board Public Hearing:
Board of Education Seeks Community Input on the Topic of Opening Extracurricular Activities for Home Schooled and/or Nonpublic School Students
- Wednesday, March 12, 2008
    The Grand Island Board of Education will hold a public hearing 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 12th in the Veronica E. Connor Middle School Little Theater to discuss the topic of opening extracurricular activities for home schooled and/or nonpublic school students.
    Current Grand Island Board of Education Policy excludes students who are home schooled and those who attend nonpublic schools from participating in school extracurricular activities such as intramurals, clubs, noncredit bearing music groups (band, orchestra, chorus), performing groups (dramas and musicals), and many other school related activities. This long standing policy is similar to ones adopted by the Boards of Education from 17 of the 19 other Erie I BOCES component districts.
    Based on a parent request to change the policy, the Grand Island Board of Education is seeking parental and community input prior to completing a review of its policy. Any change would allow any Grand Island student regardless of where he/she attended school (public or nonpublic) as well as all home schooled students, to access any noncredit program now open only to students registered in the public schools from kindergarten to grade 12.
    Prior to considering any change in policy, the Grand Island Board of Education invites community input on the topic of opening extracurricular activities for home schooled and/or nonpublic school students. A committee of Board Members has been formed to conduct the public hearing on this future Board decision. All parents and community members are welcome to participate and to present their views.
    The Grand Island Board of Education will use this feedback along with other information to make a final decision on this question which is anticipated to occur at the Monday, March 31, 2008 Board meeting.
DATE: Wednesday, March 12, 2008
TIME: 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Middle School Little Theater, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY




School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, February 25, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. (Public session) Monday, February 25, 2008 in Veronica E. Connor Middle School, 1100 Ransom Road - Building Tour 6:30 p.m.; Public Session, Middle School Little Theater, 7 p.m. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 2/25/08




Schools Superintendent Addresses Possible Staff Cuts - Feb. 2008
    See "2/14/08 Buffalo News Story"




Schools Closed - February 18-22, 2008
Grand Island schools will be closed from Monday, February 18th through and including Friday, February 22nd for a mid-winter recess.




Kindergarten Registration Mar. 25-28 - 2008
   Kindergarten Registration will be held at Charlotte Sidway Elementary School on March 25-28, 2008. Parents are asked to bring in the completed registration packet between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. It is not necessary to bring children to the school at this time. Parents may call 773-8870 with any questions.




Getting Ready For Kindergarten! - Feb. 2008
   Do you have a child coming to Kindergarten in September? The Grand Island School District has scheduled an evening at Charlotte Sidway School to help you feel prepared for September. There will be an opportunity for questions and refreshments will be served! The meeting is being held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at the school, 2451 Baseline Road.




School Board Report - January 28, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, Neil Seaman, George Casey, James Hanna, Tom Franz, Superintendent Robert Christmann
   Monday, January 28, 2008 . . .The "Good News" portion of the school board meeting began with a slideshow presentation by high school business teacher Cheryl Chamberlain. The very successful DECA Regional Conference was held at the high school on Sunday, January 13th and over 500 students from eleven different area schools participated. Twenty Grand Island students will be attending the New York State competition in the future.

    Harkness Student of the Month- December 2007
• Justin Kopenski-Cisco Networking Academy I
    Kenton Student of the Month - December 2007
• Amanda Mayes - Cosmetology II
• Natalie Suppa - Culinary Skills II
• Samantha Morrison - Cosmetology I
• Jon Kearney - Building Trades II
• Heather Brooks - Cosmetology II
• Michael Rustowicz - Auto Technology I
    Kenton Professional of the Month - December 2007
• Jessica Lew - Cosmetology I
• Richard Boss - Culinary Skills II
• Allison Walker - Culinary Skills I
    Kenton Professional of the Month - December 2007
• Jessica Lew - Cosmetology I
• Richard Boss - Culinary Skills II
• Allison Walker - Culinary Skills I
• Jon Caruana - Welding I

   Athletic Director Jon Roth announced that all 10 varsity teams qualified for Scholar Athletes for the 2007 fall season. This is the 3rd consecutive year that all of the teams qualified. Out of 1000 public high schools in New York State only four schools have 100% participation.
• Boys Cross Country - 90.2% - Coach Don Sauer
• Girls Cross Country - 91.2% - Coach Don Sauer
• Girls Volleyball - 90.1% - Coach John Head
• Girls Tennis - 93.1% - Coach Julie Neville
• Girls Soccer - 90.% - Coach Dave Bowman
• Boys Golf - 90.7% - Coach Craig Warthling
• Girls Swimming - 90.4% - Coach Lee Herbst
• Boys Volleyball - 90.% - Coach Bill Schultz
• Boys Soccer - 90.2% - Coach Peter Kuehne
• Varsity Football - 90.2% - Coach Dean Santorio

   In the Voice of the People segment, R.J. Wynne, father of home schooled children, asked that a March meeting scheduled to decide if home schoolers may participate in district extra-curricular activities be moved to a February date. The change was requested so that spring activities could be attended.
   A report was given by Erie 1 BOCES District Superintendent Donald Ogilvie regarding the home schooling/activity participation issue. There are regulations and laws that pertain to enrolled students participating in after school activities. The current policy of not accepting home schooled or private schooled students is adopted by 90% of New York State schools. The parents of these students have chosen that their children not be enrolled in the district therefore the district is under no obligation to accept them into the activities. It is still up to the board of education to decide on this issue. The possibility of a public forum is being discussed to get the island residents' views. A public sentiment form may be included in the next issue of the "Bridge" newsletter and possibly the district website. It seems all of the board members want to take their time looking into all aspects of the activity policy, including transportation and liability questions.
   Superintendent Robert Christmann noted that he received a call from State Senator Antoine Thompson the same day that the high school Madrigals performed at a Martin Luther King program, noting that their performance was the highlight of the presentation.
   A policy of computer use was agreed to by district staff.
   After stating that the district has a reputation for putting on quality events, it was announced the high school will host the NYSSMA Spring Solo Festival May 16-17th of this year.
   A federal court ruling has recently stated that the No Child Left Behind program violates state laws. States and communities cannot be forced to pay for federal programs. The federal government cannot mandate without funds to back up the programs.
   A new requirement for high school seniors will begin over the summer with 20 hours of community service needed in order to graduate.
   In other news, a rotating schedule for use of Kleinhans Music Hall for school district graduation ceremonies will be forthcoming.
   The Grand Island school district staff numbers for the 2007-2008 year total 536 employees, with 279 certified staff and 257 non-certified staff.
   A picture of Kaegebein School will be included in a June issue of Business First with the yearly education listings and ratings.
   In Governor Eliott Spitzer's NYS budget proposal, the school public safety officers will be taken away in over 120 school districts. Superintendent Christmann asked that parents be proactive in contacting local and state politicians, unions and the media to get the Governor to back down from his decision. June 20th is to be the final decision date.
   The Cannon Design Group is the architect for Capital Project Planning and is in the process of meeting with facility administrators to evaluate future needs.
   Trustee Myrna Blair announced the Distinguished Alumni Assembly will take place on March 10th at 10:00 a.m. and students will be in attendance.

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

Monday, February 25, 2008 - Regular Meeting, Middle School Little Theatre - 7:00 p.m
6:30 p.m. Tour

Monday, March 10, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m

Monday, March 31, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Small Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m




School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, January 28, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. (Public session) Monday, January 28, 2008 in Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road - High School Building Tour 6:30 p.m.; Public Session, large cafeteria, 7 p.m. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 1/28/08




Community Education Begins - Jan. 2008
   Grand Island Community Education classes for winter 2008 will begin on Monday, January 28. Walk-in registration will be held from 6-7 p.m. on the same day, in the foyer of the Grand Island High School on Ransom Road. "The Bridge" and Community Education brochures have now been combined and were mailed to each household the week of January 7th. For additional information, call Community Education at 773-8864. See "Winter Brochure - Community Education"




School Board Report - January 7, 2008
By Jodi Robinson
School Board members present: Myrna Blair, Richard Little Jr., Glenn Bobeck, Neil Seaman, George Casey, James Hanna, Superintendent Robert Christmann
Absent: Tom Franz
   Monday, January 7, 2008 . . .The "Good News" portion of the school board meeting began with the recognition of the Harkness Students of the Month for November 2007. They are William Koller - Television & Sound Production I, and Jacob Leffler - Electrical Systems I.
   Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum/Instruction Dr. Karen Karmazin and Assistant Superintendent for Finance Loraine Ingrasci have been named to join the Erie 1 BOCES Arts in Education Board. Kaegebein Elementary participated in the Operation Care Package program in December and collected over 400 letters and Christmas cards to send overseas to the U.S. troops. DECA/Interactive Clubs were commended for their participation in the Neighbor's Foundation holiday project where they helped distribute donations to needy Island families.
   In other "Good News," Grand Island School District Bus Driver Jackie Steckelberg was recognized by Supervisor for Transportation Jack Burns and the board for "going above and beyond the call of duty" when one of her middle school passengers fell getting off the bus at school. Mrs. Steckelberg went into the school and found the student in gym class not feeling well and brought him to the school nurse who contacted the family. The mother sent a letter to the school district thanking Mrs. Steckelberg for her efforts.
   The high school Madrigal Singers were asked by State Senator Antoine Thompson to perform in a Martin Luther King Day concert, the only group invited from outside the City of Buffalo. A performance by the Madrigals was taped in December at WGRZ studio to be played on air during the holiday season.
    A representative from the Transportation Advisory Service is in town looking at the district transportation program and will meet with building and district administrators and staff to look at ways to make operations more efficient. Policies, procedures and protocols will be discussed along with a wish list and ideas. At the end of the study, recommendations on changes and how to implement the changes will be announced.
   Under "Curriculum," Jenny Mancuso was announced as an Instructional Technology Partner who will be training teachers in the elementary schools. Huth Road Principal Mary Haggarty and Connor Middle School vice Principal Carl Guidotti gave a presentation on Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS) to BOCES. District grade 5 Social Studies scores have shown an increase in overall scores and 100% passing on the latest assessment test.
   In "Business & Finance," phase II of the building project, the installation of generators at the elementary schools, is under way and should be completed during the February school break.
   Superintendent Robert Christmann reported on the quick actions of Supervisor Peter McMahon after a meeting of the One Island, One Team group. A program to enforce the law of sale of tobacco to minors was set in place with three out of ten stores (on the Island) in non-compliance. At this time a fine is imposed and if another sale occurs within 24 months, the store will be banned from sales for six months.
   Enrollment projections for the next five years show a slight increase.
   The Town of Grand Island was commended for its assistance at two recent water main breaks that occurred on district property, two days apart.
    State Senator Antoine Thompson recently attended lunch at the high school, buying lunch and moving from table to table talking with students.
   A total of 21 Teacher Center Mini Grants have been awarded to Grand Island teachers, the highest number given to any district in the region.
   A meeting was held with Grand Island Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel and a representative of the Erie County Board of Elections with Grand Island High School Principal Sandra Anzalone and Kaegebein Principal John Wiertel to discuss improved safety measures when voting takes place in the schools. Special consideration for the elementary school was discussed with a second law enforcement officer being added when voting occurs.
   All fall sports teams at Grand Island High School received the Scholar Athlete Team Award. Very few high schools in the region qualify in all sports.
   The winter district newsletter included the Community Education information, saving the district postage monies.
   A quarterly meeting with the town board and school board is scheduled for Monday, January 28th and may be held at the town hall.
   Mr. Christmann noted that the recent bomb threat received in a computer lab at the high school was handled very well. Within minutes of the report, four dogs and handlers were going through the school with assorted officers from the town, state and Sheriff's Departments. The investigators are very close to identifying the person(s) responsible.
   The board discussed the participation of home schooled students in district after-school programs and clubs. Parent R.J. Wynne and his daughter, Emily, who would like to join the 7th grade softball team, were at the board meeting hoping for a positive response. The board has received a report from the district's lawyer and also reports from other area districts. Of the 19 Erie 1 BOCES districts, only two, Maryvale and Sloan, have allowed home school participation. There are many legal ramifications, including transportation and inclusion of private school students that need to be addressed. Trustee James Hanna has asked that a public meeting/forum be scheduled so taxpayers can address the positives and negatives to the issue. There are 80 home schooled children on Grand Island and Superintendent Christmann noted that there are no grading systems in place that pertain to these students.
   In other news, the district custodial and maintenance departments will move third shift employees to second shift by the February school break.

Monday, January 28, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m

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

Monday, February 25, 2008 - Regular Meeting, Middle School Little Theatre - 7:00 p.m
6:30 p.m. Tour

Monday, March 10, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m

Monday, March 31, 2008 - Regular Meeting, High School Small Cafeteria - 7:00 p.m




School District "The Bridge" & Community Education Winter Classes - 2008
The Grand Island Central School District newsletter - "The Bridge 2008 will be delivered to Island homes next week, however, the district has provided it to Isledegrande.com. Included with the mailing of "The Bridge" will be Community Education Winter Class Brochure, also included here.




School Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, January 7, 2008
A School Board meeting will be held 7 p.m. (Public session) Monday, January 7, 2008 in Huth Road School. Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 1/7/08 A Huth Road Building Tour will take place at 6:30 p.m.




"Artist of the Month" - 2008

Bethany Wynne
Click photos for larger view
   The Grand Island K-12 Art Department is proud to announce Bethany Wynne as the fourth "Artist of the Month" award recipient of the year. Bethany, a fifth grader at Huth Road Elementary, is a member of the art club, band and chorus. Bethany pays special attention to detail in her art work and is a perfectionist when it comes to craftsmanship. She became interested in art at a very young age because both of her parents are established in the art field. "I really became interested in art around four or five years old because my mother is an art teacher and my father is a designer," she said. Bethany, who enjoys sketching and drawing with colored pencils, is pictured with her art work to show one of her many talents.

2008 PAGE 2 News
2007 News
2006 News
2005 News
2004 News
2003 News
2002 News
2001 News

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