October Midlakes Journal

M idlakes Journal
Volume XX Issue 2
October 2015
Superintendent’s Message
This time of the year can be so bittersweet. The warm days of the summer are few and far between however there are many fun
activities to enjoy as a family in the fall. Apple picking, pumpkin carving, taking in the foliage, and spending time outside is what
my family enjoys best. I hope you are finding time as a family to enjoy the colorful season that is fall.
You may have noticed or heard about our technology initiative, called an eInitiative or an eVision. Beginning in the 2015/2016
school year, we have committed to providing our staff and all students in grades k-8 with tablets to support instruction and learning.
For the 2016/2017 school year, the initiative will expand to grades 9-12. We are unsure at this point if the secondary students will
also receive tablets or another device which might better meet the needs of a high school student. Handbooks have gone home
explaining the tablet, its operation, and requirements as it relates. Clearly, an endeavor of this magnitude is exciting and filled with
great potential however we know you may have questions. I hope to answer some of those questions:
1. How is this undertaking being paid for? It is being paid for in a few ways. First, the tablets are being purchased through BOCES,
as are many things in public education. Technology purchased through BOCES has a yearly return on it, through state aid at a rate of
approximately 80%. Therefore, once begun, it is a fairly small portion of the budget to maintain. Secondly, the state has awarded a
substantial amount of Smart Bond monies to be spent on technology related initiatives. The Smart Bond has no spending expiration.
With careful and conservative management, we can do some great things without becoming dependent on the funds.
2. How will tablets support education? There are many online sites, apps, and student management programs with which kids,
parents, and teachers can collaborate. Some of these items require internet connectivity while others do not. Whether a home has
internet or not, a student can still use many features. We have contracted with myON which is a company with approximately 10,000
school aged books available. All of our kids in grades k-8 can select from these books and read them as part of the curriculum or for
pleasure. The tablet can read books to the student if they are too young to read. Books can be recommended based on topics each child
is interested in and books will be recommended at their Lexile (reading) level. There are many apps and online learning tools which
help students with language arts and mathematics skills and can be performed in class during stations or for intervention purposes
in school or even at home for struggling learners. We are also investing a great deal of training on OneNote which is a Microsoft
product where notes can be pushed from the teacher’s device to the student’s tablets. Practice sets can be performed on the tablet and
a teacher can see it, and make corrections or comments which the individual student can also see on his/her tablet. Group projects can
be assigned and a virtual notebook can be maintained by students for every subject area. If a student is absent from school, the work,
with the notes, will be on their tablet OneNote file. This will also help us move to a more paperless organization.
3. What happens if my child breaks it? Originally the handbook stated that “gross negligence”, in other words, purposely
breaking them, would result in a $300 fine. After hearing from some concerned parents, we have revised the language to state that
“in cases of gross negligence the student will be susceptible to our student conduct policy just like they would with destruction of
any school property.” In all likelihood, if a student purposely breaks the device, they will no longer be allowed to take them home
(when we begin letting them go home sometime in the new year). These devices are built for school use and are very difficult to
break although breakage is possible. This is not a major concern for us as we know kids will do a great job taking care of their tablet,
as the tablet they are assigned will follow them for their school career.
It should be noted that the kids are very enthusiastic about the tablets. Levels of engagement are incredibly high and students are
demonstrating an eagerness to learn. Students are unable to be passive learners with tablets. Rather, they must actively engage. At the
same time, we do recognize that these tablets and technology in general, are simply a tool. Kids will not be working exclusively with
technology. Good, old fashioned principles of education (paper and pen) are also highly valuable and utilized on a daily basis. Society has
changed and, in an attempt to best prepare our students for what is ahead of them, we too shall change. I am especially excited about how
we will be able to collaborate with families like never before. Stay tuned for two separate community forums scheduled for November
and December. Both will focus on internet safety and our eInitiative. Also note that on our district webpage, there is a tab on the left
entitled eVision. By clicking that link, you will begin to see many resources for staff and students/parents as it relates to the tablets.
With Midlakes Pride,
Jamie M. Farr
Inside this edition:
Annual Notices ����������������������������������������������������������������� 2
District Calendar��������������������������������������������������������������� 2
HOLIDAY CONCERT AT MIDLAKES
Commissioner of Education Visit...................................3
Date: December 1, 2015 Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Midlakes High School Auditorium
Adult: $8.00 (presale) $10.00 at the door
Student: $5.00
MIS News and more..........................................................4
Phelps-Clifton Springs Central School District
1490 State Route 488
Clifton Springs, NY 14432
ECRWSS
POSTAL PATRON
MHS News & More...........................................................6
Theatre Experience/Black Box ........................................7
November - January Calendars�������������������������������������� 8
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Newark
NY 14513
Permit No. 71
2015-2016
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Laura Cirone - President
David Knitter Kim Skellie
Sheri Scherbyn Amber Wilkes
Ryan Davis - Vice President
M idlakes Journal
Page 2
PERFORMING ARTS LINEUP
November 5-8
MHS Theatre Fall Show, Black Box Theatre
November 6, 7
Jr. High Area All-State (select students)
November 20, 21 Senior High Area All-State (select students)
December 1
MHS Chorus with RPO, 7:30 pm MHS Aud.
December 4
Volunteer musicians at Clifton Springs Festival of Lights, Time TBA
December 5
Volunteer musicians at Phelps Tree Lighting
Ceremony & Parade, Time TBA
December 8
MIS Holiday Band & Chorus Concert, 7 pm,
MHS Aud.
December 12
All County Band & Vocal Jazz auditions in Canandaigua, Time TBA
December 16
MMS/MHS Holiday Band & Chorus Concert,
7 pm, MHS Aud.
January 15
Cabaret Night, MMS & MHS Jazz Bands,
MHS vocalist, 7 pm, MMS Cafe
January 29, 30
Jr/Sr High All-county Band & Chorus (select)
February 5, 6
Elementary All-county Band & Chorus (select)
Non-Discrimination Notice
The Phelps-Clifton Springs CSD has adopted policies in
compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972, The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Age
Discrimination Act, and does not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, national origin, creed, religion, marital status, sex,
age, sexual orientation or disability in admissions, participation
or employment. Inquiries may be directed to the Title IX Hearing
Officer, Patti Larche, at the District Office, or with ADA Section 504
Compliance Officer, Tammy Wood, at the Office of Special Programs.
Emergency Closings and Notification
In a continued effort to improve communication with parents,
please note that our district is now using School Messenger
Parent Notification System. In the event of an emergency,
we have the ability to reach all parents right away in a matter
of minutes. The telephone system may also be used for
announcements of school closings or general school news. In
addition, the following will broadcast emergency closings:
TV Channels: WROC 8, NEWS 10, WHAM 13, WSTM 3 and
Time Warner Cable.
Radio Stations: WHAM (1180 AM), WACK/WNNR (1420
AM/103.5 FM), Finger Lakes Radio Group, WARM/WPXY/
WCMF/The ZONE (101.3 FM/97.9 FM/96.5 FM/94.1 FM),
WYLF AM, K101.7 FM, WNYR (98.5 FM)
GOLDEN AGES PASS
Phelps-Clifton Springs community
members who are age 60 years or older,
may obtain a “Golden Ages Pass”
at the Superintendent’s Office.
This card allows free admission to
school sponsored events.
MIDLAKES POOL
Open swim - Wed. Fri. 6:00-8:00 p.m.
$1.00 student/$3.00 adult/$5.00 family/$2.00 Senior lap swim
Lap swim - Mon. Wed. Fri. 6:00-7:30 a.m.
Lap swim - Mon. 7:00-8:00 Tues. thru Friday 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Water aerobics - Mon. Wed. Fri. 7:30-8:30 a.m.
Water aerobics - Tues. Thurs. 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Aerobic drop in $5.00/Adult pass $70.00/Senior pass $60.00
Group pool parties - Saturdays 12:00-4:00 upon request
$45.00/hour pool fee; $25.00/hour room fee
Winter swim lesson registration - December 19 at 10:00 a.m.
This includes 5 Saturday 10:00 lessons in Jan & Feb - dates TBA
Pool Questions - call 315-548-6451
Volume XX, Issue 2
Limited Disclosure/Student Records
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),
Phelps-Clifton Springs CSD is notifying parents and students over
18 years of age of the right to inspect and review records believed
to be inaccurate or misleading. Student records are private
unless the parent or student older than 18 years consents to the
disclosure of personally identifiable information. Also under
FERPA, unless objected, the Phelps-Clifton Springs CSD herewith
gives notice of intention to provide, release or publish in district
newsletters, school newspapers, yearbooks or other publications,
athletic and theatrical programs, or news releases, the following
student information: name, name of parents, address, age,
height, weight, grade, participation in school activities and
sports programs, academic honors, awards, scholarships and
similar information. Under Title 34, Part 99, Privacy Rights
of Parents and Students, parents who do not desire release of
any of the above information must make a specific request in
writing to Jamie Farr, Superintendent of Schools. Failure to
make such a request shall be deemed consent to release, provide
or publish directory information during the 2015-16 school year.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Looking for part-time work? Midlakes schools are seeking people
for substitutes in the following areas:
Teachers/Teaching Assistants - need not be certified, however must
attend a group interview held monthly by the Superintendent
Teacher Aide, Cleaner, Food Service, School Monitor,
Nurse, Typist (Office)
If interested, please complete both a district application as well
as an Ontario County Civil Service application (other than
teachers), which can be found on our website: www.midlakes.
org by following employment opportunities under quick links.
Please either mail or bring in all applications to Vickie Bliss in the
Business Office for processing.
Disclosure to the Military
In compliance with federal law, the Phelps-Clifton Springs
Central School District does release the names, addresses
and phone numbers of high school students to military
recruiters unless parents request in writing that we not do so.
Student Privacy - Photos
In the course of the school year, students may be photographed
for purposes of school related publications. If a parent or
guardian does not wish their child’s photograph and/or name
to appear in any district or school publication, it is important to
send a request in writing to your child’s Principal.
2015-2016 DISTRICT CALENDAR
November 11
Veteran’s Day Holiday
November 18-20 Half Parent/Teacher Conf-MPS/MIS
November 25-27 Thanksgiving Holiday
December 9 Half Supt. Conference Day
December 24–Jan 1 Holiday Recess
January 18
Martin Luther King Holiday
January 26-29
NYS Regents Exams
February 15-19
Winter Recess
February 29
Half Supt. Conference Day
March 25
Supt. Conference Day
March 28-Apr 1
Spring Recess
April 26
Half Parent/Teacher Conf-MPS/MIS
April 27-29
Half Parent/Teacher Conf-MPS/MIS
May 4-6
AP Exams
May 9-12
AP Exams
May 24
Half Supt. Conference Day
May 30
Memorial Day Holiday
June 14-22
NYS Regents Exams
June 22
Last day for Students
June 24
Supt. Conference Day-Last teacher day
June 25
High School Graduation
M idlakes Journal
Volume XX, Issue 2
WELCOME - New Midlakes Staff
Brittney Cognata ENL Teacher
Wendy Sheffield
ENL Teacher
Leslie O’Hora
Elementary Teacher
Jean Sauter
Special Education Teacher
Paul Milliman
Special Education Teacher
Molly Hudgins
Speech
James Brenchley
Psychologist
Heather Clark
Elem. Dean of Students
Taylor DeYoung Reading Teacher
Kerry Buckman
LTS Elementary Teacher
Ashley Upchurch LTS Elementary Teacher
Kristen Flynn-Comstock LTS Special Education
Does Your Family Need Health Insurance?
Having adequate health insurance is important for the well
being of your children and yourselves. If you would like more
information regarding Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus or
Medicaid, please call your child’s School Nurse. These policies
provide great coverage for local pediatricians, dentists and eye
care specialists. The application process can take time so let us
help you start the process so you will be covered when illness or
injury occur. Call today for the health of your family:
MPS Nurse – Michele Tyman RN - 548-6720
MIS Nurse – Peg Carlson RN
- 548-6920
MMS/MHS Nurse – Gail Cayer RN - 548-6320
MIDLAKES PTO PRESENTS
The Polar Express Movie Night
When – December 11, 2015
Where – Intermediate Gym
Time – 6:00 PM
Cost - $1.00 admission & Popcorn
Refreshment table will be available
stocked with goodies to purchase and
enjoy during the movie.
Hope to see you there!
SKATING PARTIES HOSTED BY INTERACT
Roller skating parties, held in the Intermediate School
gymnasium for students, are sponsored by the MHS Interact
Club. Proceeds from these skating parties support Interact
community projects. If any high school student between the
ages of 14-18 is interested in joining the Interact Club, please
conatct Linda Lindner at [email protected] or Tina Bounds at
[email protected]
Upcoming roller skating parties are scheduled from 6:00-7:30 pm
for the following dates. The cost is $5.00, and refreshments are
available to purchase.
Tuesdays Gr.K-2, Wednesdays Gr. 3-4, Thursdays Gr. 5-6
Tues, Dec 1; Wed, Dec 2; Thurs, Dec 3
Tues, Jan 26; Wed, Jan 27; Thurs, Jan 28
Midlakes parents of babies
under 24 months old can
receive a “bundle” of free books
and a parent guidebook by
contacting
the Budding Readers:
EMAIL: [email protected]
PHONE: Linda at 315-462-9072 or 585-748-1331
WEBSITE: www.buddingreaders.org
Budding Readers is a local non-profit organization founded
in 2007. Our mission is to educate, encourage and equip
parents of Ontario County to read with their infants and
young children as a natural part of their daily routine.
Page 3
NYS Commissioner of Education Visits Midlakes
In only her third month on the job, newly appointed Commissioner
MaryEllen Elia spent some time on the campus of Midlakes
recently. This marks what is believed to be the first time a
NYS Commissioner of Education has ever visited Midlakes.
On September 24, 2015, the Commissioner was scheduled to
be here to take part in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the
new BOCES PTECH Program. This is a high tech program
for high school aged students in grades 9-12 located on
our campus. We decided to seize the opportunity and
invited Commissioner Elia to spend some time with us,
touring classrooms and meeting with a variety of people.
Commissioner Elia visited two
classrooms at the elementary
school and took time to watch one
group of students receive their
tablets for the first time. Another
group of students, who have had
their tablets for a few weeks, were
fully using them for a lesson. She spent time asking the teachers
and students questions about what they liked and did not like
about not only the tablets, but about education in general. After
that tour, she met in our board room with approximately 30
people comprised of staff, students, and parents/community
members. She explained where she hoped we would be
heading as a system and then fielded questions from the group.
Commissioner Elia comes to
this new role understanding
that many things need to be
fixed. Financial support needs
to be given to poorer districts.
The standardized assessment
situation needs to be addressed
and that has begun. She
announced the assessments
will be shorter beginning this
year and they dropped their current vendor, Pearson, and went
with a local company out of New York. She also spoke about
how we need to heal public education and revive confidence
in the system. Unfortunately, the few low performing schools
have been generalized to give the perception that many are
low performing and that couldn’t be further from the truth.
We would like to thank
Commissioner Elia for her
time with us and wish her
luck in her new endeavor.
Certainly it will not be an
easy task, however we are
hearing that she truly does care
about what the people have
to say and is a great listener.
COMMUNITY BOOK READ
You may have heard, the staff at Midlakes are all reading The Leader
in Me by Stephen Covey. Each one of our conference days will
begin with a book chat around the concepts of this book and we will
incorporate the principles into our day to day work with students.
You too can get involved. Leah Hamilton of the Phelps
Community Library and Melissa Correia of the Clifton Springs
Community Library have also volunteered to run a community
based book chat with the same talking points. See either of
them to get involved. If you prefer a modernized book club,
you are welcome to join the twitter chat I host each conference
day. Use the hashtag #mdlxlim to join the conversation.
Our mission is to empower kids with the leader found in each and
every one of them. They have control over their destiny and they each
have a unique skill set which can contribute to the greater picture.
M idlakes Journal
Page 4
Volume XX, Issue 2
Intermediate News & MORE
MIS Promotes the Seven Habits
In the 2014- 2015 school year, MIS art club spent a good deal of
time creating large scale paintings which promote the seven habits
of healthy kids.
The Seven Habits originate in the book, The Leader in Me,
by Stephen Covey. The book encourages schools to foster an
atmosphere of leadership, communication, respect and time
management. The Seven Habits help to lay the foundation that will
help guide our students to make good decisions. By teaching the
skills of self-discipline, self-reliance, and self-confidence, teachers
provide students the opportunity to learn essential life skills.
The idea for the paintings came from a student in one of the
MIS “Leader in Me” meetings comprised of both faculty and student
representatives. Art club volunteered to bring that idea to life. The
paintings were designed with the idea that they would become a
permanent display in our school and complement our school initiative.
Students created the paintings from small pictures. A graph was
drawn on the small pictures and then a larger graph was drawn
proportionately on a larger board. Students used this graph
system to transfer the drawings onto the boards. Art club members
worked together in teams to complete the paintings.
WE NEED YOUR HELP
Last year the fire chief and I both authorized and signed
a letter asking people to refrain from parking along the
curbs on campus and instead use the designated parking
areas. Parking along the curbs creates a safety hazard as
the driving lanes become blocked. We have had incidents
this year where buses have been blocked by cars parking
along the curb in the athletic loop and have been late to
contests as a result. We have also had incidents where
parents are blocked by people parking in the drop off circle
at the elementary school. These are no parking zones and
should be treated as such. Parking along the curb makes
it difficult for safety personnel and firetrucks to access
our buildings during a true emergency. Please help us by
using the designated parking areas on campus. Thank you.
MIS BAND NEWS
MIS Band is currently enrolling new students in grades three
through six. If you are interested in having your third through
sixth grader start a musical instrument, please write to Miss
Morris before November 17 to let her know your child’s name and
homeroom teacher. Lessons are being offered for the following
instruments: Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet, French
Horn, Trombone, and Baritone Tuba.
The results are beautiful and a testament to hard work and grit by our A parent’s informational meeting will be held on November 17
students. The paintings will eventually be displayed in the halls and at 7:00 in the MIS Music room. This meeting explains the band
program, how to get the instruments, how instruments are selected
serve to inspire students to develop their own leadership potential.
and the lesson program. This meeting is for everyone who has
a child who wants to start the study of a musical instrument.
Please let Miss Morris know if you will be attending so she can
prepare an information packet for you. E-mail: [email protected]
LIBRARY NEWS
MIS ART CLUB
Each year MIS Art club participates in a poster contest for the New
York State School Bus Safety Week sponsored by the National
Association for Pupil Transportation. The winning posters from
last year are used in conjunction with an educational program
designed to promote school bus safety at the beginning of the
following school year. The posters are judged regionally and then
regional winners are judged again at the state level.
In June of 2015, the Intermediate School Art Club had two regional
winners in Division II (grades 3-5). Elaina Harris-Maxwell was
awarded 2nd place and Madison Crowley was awarded first place.
There was one winner in Division III (grades 6-8). Paige Mattoon
was awarded first place.
Madison Crowley, shown left, now a 6th
grader at MIS, received an honorable
mention at the state level.
Paige Mattoon,
shown right,
now a 7th grade
student at MMS,
won 2nd place at
the state level.
Congratulations to these girls and to all of
the Art Club students who participated in
this important contest.
There is so much going on in the elementary library! One
popular event is the pumpkin decorating contest that took
place at the end of October. Students in grades 3-6 have the
opportunity to inspire other students to read by decorating a
pumpkin and relating it to a book theme or character. The top
three entries at each grade level (3-6) received a gift certificate
that may be redeemed at our upcoming book fair. This year we
also added an adult category. What a creative staff we have!
Mrs. Wheeler would like to thank the families who send in box
tops for education, which fund many special events at school.
Please continue to send them as each little box top adds up to a lot!
Two years ago we added a climbing wall to the Primary gym. It
also funds the annual end-of-the-year carnival in June for students
K-6 as well as other fun events throughout the school year.
The book fair is coming! It will be here November 9 through
November 20 during school hours. Please stop by. It
will also be open to families during the half-day parent/
teacher conference days, November 18, 19, and 20. The “Secret Santa Shop” will be open to school-aged children
during the half-day parent/teacher conference days as well,
November 18 (until 5:00 PM), 19 (until 5:00 PM), and 20 (until
3:30 PM) for both MPS and MIS students to secretly shop
for Christmas presents for those on their Christmas lists.
Starting at the end of November through early January, fourth, fifth,
and sixth graders will be competing in the Geography Bee sponsored
by the National Geographic Society. It is a great opportunity to
expose students to a variety of topics related to geography and
cultures of the world. The early rounds of the contest will take
place during library/computer class. The ten finalists will be
notified of the date of the final competition, which will take place in
the school library during the school day sometime in early January.
Thanks for your continued support of our many programs and events.
Mrs. Bradley, Librarian & Mrs. Wheeler, Computer Teaching Assistant
M idlakes Journal
Volume XX, Issue 2
Page 5
Middle School News & More
MMS FRENCH & ENGLISH STUDENTS
TEAM UP TO HELPS KIDS IN NEED
The middle school French Club and 7th grade English
classes have joined forces to make the world a better place
for children. The French Club, advised by Michelle Mong,
has been participating in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF (United
Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) for the
past five years to bring awareness of the issues facing kids
around the world. Three years ago, 7th grade English teacher
Heather Manns started teaching the book A Long Walk to
Water (Linda Sue Park) to her students. Based on a true story,
Salva, 11, is separated from his family by war. He survives
and ultimately leads a group of about 1,500 boys to safety in
Kenya. Relocated to Rochester, he learns English and continues
on to college. Eventually he returns to his home region in
Southern Sudan to establish a foundation that installs deepwater wells in remote villages in dire need of clean water.
A perfect partnership was created this year and about 140 MMS
students, including those of Marissa Liberati, are raising money
for UNICEF in the spirit of helping others, inspired by a book. The
goal is to raise at least $400.00 to provide a water pump for a village.
Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is an easy, fun way to teach
kids the value of helping others. UNICEF helped provide
countless children around the world with clean water,
nutrition, medicine, immunizations and education. If you
do not meet one of our UNICEF-ers, you can donate here:
http://www.unicefusa.org/mission/usa/trick-or-treat/donate
These kids need food, water, and an education. Imagine if at least five
people donated a dollar, it would be able to buy food for a child in a
week. Even though it’s little, it helps and when it’s from you, it might
put a smile on your face. If you could at least donate a few nickels, you
could really help. I hope you take this in mind this October and hope
you had a happy Halloween! –Kaia Cahill, 7th grade
PLEASE CHECK YOUR CHILD’S BAG
Times when playing cops and robbers and even being allowed to
bring plastic toy guns to school have changed. Today, this sort of
activity is forbidden and taken very seriously. Knowing that we
live in a rural setting where hunting is a way of life, and many
children are into scouting, please be extra careful and vigilant
with your children making certain that nobody inadvertently or
purposely brings an item to school which could be categorized
as a weapon. This includes toys.
Over the last several months, we have had two instances of airsoft guns being brought on campus by very young children with
innocent intentions. By state law, these situations must be fully
investigated and taken seriously. Please help us ensure these
types of situations do not occur again. Thank you.
ON LINE LEARNING BENEFITS
The Midlakes Educational Community
by Senah Gowan
Midlakes students are very fortunate in that they enjoy the
many benefits personal learning technology provides for some
school districts across our nation. Students here have access
to various types of hardware such as laptops and tablets,
desktops and iPads. They also utilize many different levels
and genres of software that aid in the learning process. One of
the software programs that has been particularly effective over
the past few years for Midlakes High School students is the
APEX Learning digital curriculum, better known as just APEX.
The Apex program offers all students an individualized way
to access New York State curriculum in most areas in order to
achieve original credit recovery, remediation or intervention.
Students are able to demonstrate proficiency in a quiet space
with no intimidation. They have access at all times to a
certified instructor who is proficient in all subject areas. This
instructor proctors all assessments and provides intensive,
small group instruction. This program also allows staff outside
of the subject area to facilitate academic recovery programs.
APEX students really like the fact that they can progress at their
own pace. They are also able to work from home or any location on
campus that has computers available. APEX students report that
they feel relaxed as social pressures are also reduced in the small
class atmosphere. There is no doubt that our graduation rates have
gone up as a result of use of this program. It is my hope that, as a
district, all students and staff will be able to benefit from the APEX
program. In the future we may be able to not only employ full
courses but will also be able to access personalized tutorials for all
students in the areas of English, math, social studies and science.
STAYING SAFE ONLINE
From banking and shopping, to healthcare, social networking, and downloading the latest applications we live robust, online lives.
However, being constantly connected at work and at home brings increased risk of falling victim to scams, and cybercrime. As
digital citizens, every step we take to be safe online will make ourselves, our families and our communities more secure.
Below are a few simple tips you can do to help keep your identity and information safe online, no matter how you connect to the Internet:
• Keep a Clean Machine. Be sure your computer and mobile devices are current with all operating system and application
software updates. Install and maintain firewalls, anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
• Use Strong Passwords. Create strong passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Don’t use words that
can be found in dictionaries, regardless of language. Hackers have tools that can automatically run through all possible dictionary
words to crack your password.
• Think Before You Click. Be wary of communication that implores you to act immediately, offers something that sounds
too good to be true, or asks for personal information.
• Don’t Take the Bait on Phishing Scams! Never respond to emails that ask for your password, financial account, or other
sensitive information. Legitimate organizations will not ask users to send such information via email.
• When in Doubt, Throw it Out! Delete suspicious emails and ignore questionable links.
• Less is More. Limit the amount of personal information you post online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing too much information.
Visit the following web sites to learn more:
New York State Office of Information Technology Services: www.its.ny.gov/eiso
U.S. Department of Homeland Security: www.dhs.gov/national-cyber-security-awareness-month
StaySafeOnline.org: www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/
Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center: https://msisac.cisecurity.org/
M idlakes Journal
Page 6
National Honor Society
Volume XX, Issue 2
High School News & More
Please note: We apologize for names that were omitted when this
article ran in the August issue of the Midlakes Journal.
In May, five seniors and twenty-seven juniors were inducted
into the Midlakes High School chapter of the National Honor
Society. The candle-lighting ceremony took place in the Midlakes
Middle School cafeteria.
To be eligible as a junior, a student must have a cumulative grade
point average of eighty-eight after the midpoint of the junior
year. A student is also eligible for membership in the senior year
with a cumulative grade point average of eighty-eight after the
first marking period. Students are then selected for membership
by a faculty council who review their leadership, character and
service to school and community.
The seniors inducted this year included Christopher Goodman,
DyLlon Gundersen, Alex Hassam, Kylee Hughes and Robert Smith.
The junior inductees were Kaylie Bator, Sarah Berry, Danielle
Cotten, Benjamin Decker, Heather Dole, Myranda Donk, Andrew
Durham, Melissa Emerson, Kaitlyn Frasca, Jaylen Galloway,
Justin Hoover, Andrew Landschoot, Aubrianna Lantrip,
Matthew LaPaglia, Richard Lawson, Patrick McFadden, Emily
Miller, Darby Nagpaul, Garrett O’Dell, Kylee Peisher, Elisabeth
Pierce, Anna Schoenfelder, Grace Sheckler, Jessica Skellie, Haley
Smith, Emily Vanderhoof and Jacklyn Walters.
Faculty advisers for NHS are Kelly Hart and Ken Campbell.
Finger Lakes Works With Their Hands!
On October 1st students from the High School had the opportunity
to explore careers that involve hands–on skills and training. This
year marked the 10th anniversary of the event; Finger Lakes
Works With Their Hands was held again at the Rodman Lott
and Sons Farm in Seneca Falls. Over 30 students attended the
event along with Mrs. McMath, Mr. Sleeman, and Mr. Clement.
The event showcases careers, colleges, unions, tradespeople,
and organizations all involved in educating students about
what they have to offer in the way of “hands-on” opportunities.
After receiving their backpacks, safety glasses, hard hat,
and snacks, the students were off and traveled from area to
area with our group guides to explore the event. Time was
spent actually operating equipment such as backhoes, Skid
steer, plows, and lifts. Students were able to try their hand
at hammering some nails as well as welding and soldering.
The colleges of FLCC, MCC, SUNY Delhi, and Alfred State
offered information and hands on demonstrations. They were
able to show students their wide variety of programs. Students
could talk directly to people involved in hi-tech businesses in
and around our area inside the F.A.M.E. building. Businesses
such as GW Lisk, Garlock Sealing Technologies, Gorbel, and
Optimax described career paths and answered questions
for the students. Outside the F.A.M.E. exhibit, members
of FLCC’s Viticulture program explained career paths and
options for people interested in the wine producing industry.
Eventually, it was lunch time, and students were treated
to a delicious chicken barbeque. After a brief “Fun with
Physics” show, they headed back. The students had an
informative day learning about a variety of opportunities
in careers where they “Work With Their Hands”. They
represented themselves and Midlakes in a positive way!
Midlakes Athletic Leadership Organization
Last Spring, the Midlakes Athletic Leadership Organization
(MALO) club won the Great American Milk Drive video contest
which was sponsored by the NFL Fuel Up to Play 60 program and
the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council. The group
won $2,000 to donate to local food banks, a smoothie maker for
their cafeteria, and a visit from an NFL player to help promote
healthy eating and physical activity. On October 14th MALO was
able to give our two local food banks, St. Felix in Clifton Springs
and Phelps Community Food Cupboard, a $1,000 donation.
Several local farmers were recognized in the Intermediate School
gymnasium, and had an NFL Fuel Up to Play 60 assembly.
In attendance at the event were Midlakes teachers and
administrators, fourth grade students from MIS, local dairy
farmers, local dairy princesses, and MALO members/student
ambassadors of Fuel Up to Play 60. The members, who acted
as mentors to the fourth graders, included Emily Vanderhoof,
Devin Kelly, Sydney Jones, Devon Burri, Claire DeBoover,
Jamie Frederick, Christian Moore, Justin Hoover, Lauren Rose,
Sean Tillman, Christy Orlando, Jon Salotti, Trevor Milliman,
and Adam Baghi. The attendees of the event had the pleasure
of listening to dairy princess Jessica Skellie, local dairy farmer
Mr. Skellie, and Midlakes senior Sydney Jones speak about the
importance of dairy, healthy diets, physical activity, and staying
involved. In addition, Joe Morris, a former Syracuse University
and New York Giants running back, was the NFL speaker for
the event. Morris spoke about pairing healthy diets with an
adequate amount of physical activity each day. He went on
to speak about how a good work ethic and following your
dreams gives you the potential to do anything you can imagine.
Morris was a pleasure to have at the school as he delivered a
positive message and interacted with the students and staff.
To cap off this wonderful event,
the students received Fuel Up to
Play 60 t-shirts and some fortunate
students won autographed
mini helmets from the Super
Bowl champion running back.
Additionally, the students had
the opportunity to participate
in some fun relay races with Joe
Morris and the MALO members.
Morris was also gracious enough
to take pictures with the staff and students. MALO advisors
Miss Nye, Mrs. Pietrocarlo, and Mr. Sanders were thankful
for all of the help and support from their administrators,
fellow teachers, and students that made this event a success.
Hall of Distinction
Plans are under way to accept applications for our inaugural class
into the Midlakes Hall of Distinction during 2015/2016. We are
currently writing bylaws and handbook/protocol. Stay tuned for
this exciting new endeavor. We will announce how and when
applications can be submitted later this winter. We are thrilled
to recognize the many tremendous contributors to profession
and/or society. These individuals are surely worth celebrating!
M idlakes Journal
Volume XX, Issue 2
FURS=FUN+LAUGHS = MIDLAKES THEATRE
Bellbottomed suits, platform shoes,
mini-dresses and teased hair will be
center stage as the Theatre Experience
of Midlakes High School presents
Not Now, Darling , a comedy by
Ray Cooney and John Chapman
on Thursday, November 5 through
Saturday, November 7 at 7:30 pm and
again on Sunday, November 8 at 2:00
pm in the school’s Black Box Theatre.
The scene is the exclusive London Fur
salon of Bodley, Bodley and Crouch,
where Crouch struggles to keep things
on an even keel despite the energetic
philandering of his partner. At the
moment, Bodley is trying to secure the affections of his latest wouldbe mistress by “selling” her husband an expensive mink
fur coat for a fraction of its real worth, and the stammering
Crouch is saddled with the task of consummating the sale.
But, as luck would have it, the husband seizes the bargain
coat as the perfect gift for his own mistress – whereupon the
complications increase uproariously, with poor Crouch caught
in the middle. Suspicious wives, mistaken identities, girls
clapped hurriedly into closets and a continuous barrage of rapid
fire jokes all become part of the hilarious doings, as the action
of the play bubbles along merrily right up to the final curtain.
The eleven member cast is led by seniors Andrew Durham
and Zachery Shirley, with Maria Denisi, Mackenzie McMillen
and Ashley Travis, all juniors, portraying the women in their
adventurous afternoon. Sophomore Sam Liberati and senior Landon
Nield are the other men in the ladies’ lives. Rian Conover, a junior,
and freshman Spencer Bonawitz are salon patrons who just want
an ocelot coat and a good parking place. Junior Allison Buel and
sophomore Skylar Bennett complete the harried staff of the salon.
Not Now, Darling is being directed by MHS English teacher
Mr. Keith E. Childs. Student directors are sophomores Trevor
Barcomb and Samantha Geisel. Childs and Mrs. Nancy
Denisi are designing the costumes. Mr. Theodore Mullen
and Mr. Charlie King design the set and serve as technical
directors for this production assisted by Mr. Jason Dunham.
Mr. Ross Gifford serves as lighting designer while Mrs.
Mary Quinn designs the publicity graphics for the show.
Presale tickets for Not Now, Darling are available at the
Midlakes High School Office, Phelps Hometown Pharmacy,
Peirce’s Gift Shop in Clifton Springs, Area Records in Geneva
and Renaissance—The Goodie II Shoppe in Canandaigua
at the cost of $8.00 for adults and $7.00 for students and
senior citizens. Tickets purchased at the door cost an
additional $2.00. Due to the limited seating in the Black Box
Theatre the purchase of presale tickets is strongly suggested.
If interested in hosting an exchange student in the future,
please contact Joe Hezel at 462-9717, or Richard Jones at
Midlakes High School, 548-6310.
Page 7
MHS Pupil Support News
SENIORS
Seniors should be working on college applications. We
recommend having all applications in by the time you go on the
senior trip. Apply on-line, and be sure to complete a transcript
request form in the PSO office for every college you apply to.
There will be a financial aid presentation on December 7, 2015 at
6:30 p.m. in the high school chorus room for seniors and parents.
You can get on the website to begin to preview the application
process (www.fafsa.ed.gov), but you cannot apply until after
January 1, 2016. We recommend that you complete the process
by February 1, 2015. Do NOT go to fafsa.com!
We will have a panel of college students (last year graduates)
here on January 8, 2016 during the lunch periods. They will talk
with seniors about their experiences and transition to college and
answer any questions your seniors may have. All seniors will be
invited to attend. Pizza and soda will be provided.
JUNIORS
Juniors should have taken the PSAT in October. The results
are expected back in December. Counselors will meet with all
students who took the PSAT to go over the results. Normally
students take the SAT and ACT in the spring of their junior year.
If you want to take it sooner, you may. Students must register
on-line. For the SAT, go to www.collegeboard.org, and for the
ACT, go to www.actstudent.org. Plan ahead and sign up for
the test dates you want. We do have a limited number of fee
waivers for any students who qualify (based on free or reduced
lunch eligibility).
Juniors should be exploring colleges and signing up for college
open houses. You can find the open house dates on the college
websites and can usually sign up on-line to schedule a visit.
We also have many individual college reps coming in to the PSO.
The lists are posted on the PSO window and announced daily
– or you can access the list on the high school PSO webpage.
We will be giving the ASVAB (armed services vocation and
aptitude battery) on November 19, 2015. This is a requirement for
any student planning on entering the military. It is also a great
tool for any student unsure of what they want to do. There is no
commitment to the military. We encourage any junior to take
the test as it has a great interest inventory and helps to match
your personal aptitude and interests to many career paths. It is
a great career exploration tool, and it is free. Please sign up now
in the PSO if you are interested.
FRESHMAN AND SOPHOMORES
It’s never too early to start looking at colleges. Utilize CHOICES
to explore colleges, occupations or take an inventory to see what
occupations match your interests. Work hard and keep your
grades up - these years are important!
2015 FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS
Phelps-Clifton Springs Schools continue their 50+ tradition of
hosting foreign exchange students for the 2015-16 school year.
We are pleased to have you meet this year’s exchange students:
Yeni Qatrunada from Indonesia, staying with the HovenJones family (Kathleen, Kara, Rachel, Daniel, & Evan) and
Lena Stahl from Germany, staying with the Cheney family
(Michael, Stephanie, and Joy).
Yeni is playing volleyball and Lena looks forward to being part of
the spring musical. Both students are enjoying their first experience
of being in America. The students have been relieved to find that
negative stereotypes about Americans, portrayed in movies, to
not be true. They have been impressed with the friendliness of
our students and community, the availability and enthusiasm
of our teachers, and the ability to choose courses that interest
them. In addition they feel that the ability to move from classto-class and the different techniques used by our teachers are a
welcome change from their home countries’ educational system.
M idlakes Journal
Page 8
November 2015
Administrative Team
Jamie Farr
Superintendent
548-6420
Matthew Fitch
Business Administrator
548-6434
Frank Bai-Rossi
Middle/High School
Principal
548-6300
Janice Driscoll
Intermediate School Principal
548-6900
Karen Cameron
Primary School Principal
548-6700
Patti Larche
Director of
Curriculum & Instruction
548-6475
J. Lyle Dixon
Athletic Director
548-6450
Tammy Wood
Director of
Special Programs & Services
548-6440
Donald Miller
Director of Facilities
548-6465
Doris Dunham
School Lunch Manager
548-6415
Lisa Kornbau
Transportation Supervisor
548-6400
Volume XX, Issue 2
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5 Black Box
Theatre
show 7:30
6 Black Box
Theatre
show 7:30
7 Black Box
Theatre show
7:30
8 Black Box 9
Theatre Show
2:00 pm
10
11 Veteran’s
Day Holiday
No school
12
13
14
15
16
17
18 BOE mtg.
6:30 at MPS
Half parent
conf-Elem.
19 Half
parent/teach
conference
Elem.
20 Half
21
parent/teach
conference
Elem.
22
23
24
25
Thanksgiving
Holiday
No school
26
Thanksgiving
Holiday
No school
27
28
Thanksgiving
Holiday
No school
29
30
December 2015
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
MHS Chorus
With RPO
7:30 at MHS
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 MIS Band
& Chorus
Concert 7pm
MHS Aud.
9
Half Supt.
Conference
Day
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Holiday
Recess No School
25
Holiday
Recess No School
26
27
28
Holiday
Recess No School
29
Holiday
Recess No School
30
Holiday
Recess No School
31
Holiday
Recess No School
BOE Meeting
6:30 at MPS
MS/HS Band &
Chorus Concert
7pm MHS aud.
January 2016
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
Holiday
Recess No School
2
3
4
School
Reopens
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Cabaret
Night 7pm
MMS Cafe
16
Jack Hauber
Aquatics Director
548-6451
17
18 Martin
Luther
King
Holiday
No School
19
20
21
BOE Meeting
6:30 at MPS
22
23
Website
www.midlakes.org
24
25
26
NYS Regents
Exams
27
28
29
30
NYS Regents NYS Regents NYS Regents
Exams
Exams
Exams
Phyllis Mouton
Tax Collector
548-6437
31