Newsletter - Chenango Forks Central School District Home

Spring/Budget 2014
Newsletter
A community where learners excel!
Budget vote scheduled for May 20
District proposes 5.72% levy increase
Superintendent’s Message
This budget newsletter provides information on the proposed
2014-2015 General Fund Budget for the Chenango Forks Central
School District and has been developed within the parameters set
forth by the Chenango Forks Board of Education and the New
York State Education Department. The Chenango Forks Central
School District faced another tough budget season this year with
reduced state aid. Initially, Chenango Forks was facing a budget gap
of $328,086. This budget gap was offset by an increase in the total
state aid package of $466,492. Specifically, the district received an
increase in Foundation Aid, Building Aid, and a reduction in the
Gap Elimination Adjustment in the sum of $468,434. Below are
the highlights for the 2014-2015 budget:
• This year the budget was created using a Zero Base Approach. Our
Administrators, Directors, Coordinators and Department heads
were actively involved in the budget creation
• With the district spending freeze in place there was a strong
emphasis on cost containment
• A proposed budget of $31,226,429 up from $30,529,107 for the
2014-2015 school year
• A proposed budget increase of 2.28% down from 3.37% for the
2013-2014 school year
• The tax levy for the 2014-2015 school year is 5.72% up from
3.98% from the 2013-2014 school year but at our tax cap.
• Implementation of Net Zero and Energy Performance Contracts
which do not cost the district money but upgrade facilities which
allows the district to show significant energy savings over time
• No proposed staff layoffs
• Spending freeze lifted
• Field trips and indoor track restored
• Four positions reinstated
It was very demanding and thought-provoking working within
the financial state aid parameters, but the Board of Education
has adopted what we as a district believe to be a financially sound
and beneficial budget that puts student achievement first while
maintaining a reasonable tax increase for the homeowner and still
allowing for the New York State Property Tax Relief Incentive
proposed by Governor Cuomo.
When putting a budget together, one of the first things that needs
to be considered is how do we maintain our high standards of
academic achievement that our students have enjoyed over the past
years. Though the Gap Elimination Adjustment has taken over
ten million dollars from the district during the past four years and
the 14-15 school year, and the consistent and constant decrease in
overall state aid, Chenango Forks has continued to be one of the
highest ranked schools in the Southern Tier according to Business
First.
Chenango Forks maintains their high standards due largely to their
dedicated teaching and support staffs, creative teaching strategies,
and innovative and groundbreaking programs such as the STEAM
Academy and student iPad initiatives, which help to make our
students college and career ready when they graduate.
If you have any questions about the budget, please contact Dr.
Lloyd “Joe” Peck, Superintendent of Schools, at 607-648-7543 or
Lena Hurd, Business Executive, at 607-648-7540.
2014 - 2015 Proposed Budget
2014 - 2015 Budget
2013 - 2014 Budget
Administrative$3,462,064
Program$21,850,991
Capital$5,913,374
Administrative$3,598,581
Program$20,943,012
Capital$5,987,514
Total$31,226,429
Total$30,529,107
Difference
Administrative-$136,517
Program$907,979
Capital-$74,140
Total $697,322
Board of Education: Don Edwards-President; Spyros Dimatos-Vice President, Amy O’Brien, Melissa Stephens, Tom Wiser
Superintendent of Schools- Lloyd “Joe” Peck Ed.D.
2
Budget
Spring/Budget 2014
2014-15
Projected Tax Levy Increase = 5.72%
Projected Budget Increase = 2.28%
Projected 2014-15 Tax Levy
*Average full value home
*2013-2014 full value rate per $1,000
*2014-2015 projected full value rate per $1,000
*Increase in rate per $1,000
$100,000
$21.21
$22.42
$1.21
*Average increase on a
$100,000 home
(Before STAR savings applied)
$121
*Average Tax Increase Per Month
$10.08
*Average Tax Increase Per Day
$.34
*Averages subject to changes in equalization rates established by the New York State Office of Real Property
Services (in July, after the taxpayer budget vote,) STAR exemptions and assessments.
The Basic and the Enhanced STAR savings will reduce the school taxes owed.
Internships available
-Science
-Technology
-Engineering
-Art
-Mathematics
Sign up in the HS guidance
office
Students must have junior
status
Budget
Spring/Budget 2014
3
Budget Revenue
Below are comparisons between 2013-14 and 2014-15 budget revenue sources and their percentages. District revenues are
composed of four main sources: state aid, local property taxes, other revenue such as interest and tuition, and fund reserves.
2014-15 Projected Revenue
Tax Levy
36%
Fund
Balance
5%
State Aid
54%
2013-14 Revenue
Tax Levy
35%
State Aid
53%
Fund
Balance
6%
Other Revenue
6%
Other Revenue
5%
Budget Expenditures
Budget expenditures include program, capital and administrative components.
The Program Component provides funding for instruction and student support services for CF students in three instructional
buildings. Transportation funding is also included in this section.
The Capital Component provides funding for operations, maintenance and facilities, the district’s debt service and transfers to
other funds.
The Administrative Component includes administrators, supervisors, curriculum/staff development, business office costs and
legal and insurances costs.
Below are comparisons between the 2013-14 and 2014-15 budget expenditures and their percentages. There were no
significant changes to the allocation of resources among the expenditure components. The district spends a majority of its funds
on program expenditures.
2014-15 Projected Expenditures
Program
70%
Administrative
11%
2013-14 Expenditures
Program
69%
Capital
19%
Administrative
11%
Capital
20%
Budget
4
Spring/Budget 2014
Shared Services - BOCES
A majority of shared services in which the district participates are contracted through the Broome-Tioga BOCES. Cooperative
services are services provided through BOCES where one or more districts share in the service. There is aid on these services
and Central Business Office services.
During the current school year, the district contracted with BOCES for managed information technology services. The following chart
highlights the cooperative services we participate in and the percentage in relationship to the contracted total amounts we
purchase through BOCES.
Occupational Education Secondary Academic
Special Education Student Placements
Summer School
Student
9.9%
.1%
Placements
Student
45.3%
ServicesLibrary/
Attendance/
Guidance
2.5%
Informational
Technology
Support
20%
Regular
Instruction/Staff
Development
4.4%
Administrative &
Capital BOCES
Budgets
5%
Central Services-Public
Information/Business
Office/Health & Safety/
Telephone/Duplicating
12.8%
Budget Breakdown
The chart below shows the distribution of expenses for the 2014-15 school year. The largest percentages are for employee costs
and related benefits.
Debt Service
BOCES
11.2%
13.6%
Transportation
Utilities & Fuel
6.4%
2%
Other
Costs
6.1%
Benefits
28.2%
Salaries
32.5%
Spring/Budget 2014
Budget
Tax levy vs. Tax rate
There is some confusion about the differences of a tax levy and a tax
rate. Here is an explanation that was put together by another school
district in our area.
What is the difference between the Tax Levy and the Tax Rate?
Tax LEVY: Total amount to be collected.
Tax RATE: Individual $ rate per thousand of assessed value used to
calculate a tax bill.
Definition of Tax Levy: The school district tax levy is the total
amount of money, including STAR reimbursement from New York
state, the board of education authorizes the tax collector to collect in
a given fiscal year.
*Tax Levy = School Budget – all other sources of revenue*
Variables affecting the Tax Levy (changes in any of these affect the levy)
1. The budget.
2. Appropriated fund balance: Money that was “left over” at the
end of one fiscal year that is used as a revenue the next fiscal year.
3. State aid and other revenues.
*Remember: Voters approve the Tax Levy Limit*
Determining the Tax Levy (three options)
1. Budget = Revenues + Appropriated Fund Balance + Reserve Use
2. Budget = (Tax Levy + State Aid + Other Revenues) +
Appropriated Fund Balance + Reserve Use
3. Tax Levy = Budget – (State Aid + Other Revenues) +
Appropriated Fund Balance + Reserve Use
If the Tax Levy remains the same will everyone’s Tax Rates remain
the same?
1. NOT NECESSARILY
2. Tax Rate is a function of the Tax Levy. Even if the Tax Levy
remains the same assessments may rise or fall, new business may
come or leave.
5
Voting information
Absentee ballots
Absentee ballots are now available for individuals who will be
absent from the district while the polls are open due to:
• Business, occupation or studies.
• Confinement in a hospital or jail.
• Physical disability or illness.
• Vacation (includes retirees.)
Call the District Clerk at 648-7564, ext. 3629 for ballots.
Important information
The information listed below is available in the business office
located in the Chenango Forks High School, One Gordon
Drive, Binghamton, N.Y.
• School report card.
• Property tax report card.
• Superintendent/associate superintendent salary and benefits.
• Line-item budget information.
• Property tax exemption information.
Voter qualifications
You are qualified to vote if you are:
• 18 years of age or older.
• A citizen of the United States.
• A resident of the school district for 30 days.
Voter I.D.
Identification will be required when you vote. Acceptable
forms of identification include:
• Valid driver’s license.
• A passport.
• Certified photo identification such as a Sheriff’s I.D. card.
Variables affecting the Tax Rates
1. The amount of the Tax Levy:
uSet by the school district; approved by voters
2. The assessment of property:
uSet by the town assessor
3. The equalization rate:
uDetermined by the State Office of Real Property (ORPS) and
the Town Assessor. ORPS defers to the Assessor’s estimate if it is
within 5 percent of ORPS testing of sales data.
Importance of Assessments
1. Growth in assessments spread the tax levy among more property
value
2. All other things being equal, if assessments grow then the change
in the tax rate paid by residents will be less than the increase in tax
levy.
If you have any questions, please call the district office at 648-7564.
NYS property tax relief
incentive
The NY State Budget agreement included a property tax
freeze. Basically, homeowners will receive a tax credit toward
their property taxes if their local governments and school
stay at or under the property tax cap. In the second year, they
must stay at or under the tax cap and put forward a plan to
save 1% of their tax levy per year, over three years. Further
details will be posted on our website, www.cforks.org in the
coming weeks.
Spring/Budget 2014
District
Advanced biology students find Driving safety course brings
forensics fascinating
consequences to the forefront
6
AP biology students performed a technique called DNA
fingerprinting with a kit from the Cornell Institute of Biology
Teachers. The technique is used to compare similarities in
human DNA and is commonly used for paternity testing and
in crime scene investigations.
Students compared DNA from a mother, baby, and two
possible fathers. Once isolated, the DNA is cut into fragments
using restriction enzymes. The fragments are then pulled
through a gel using an electric field. The gel acts like a
maize and separates the DNA fragments based on size. The
biological father is determined by matching banding patterns
in the DNA that form on the gel.
The experiment gave students real-world experience in a
technique commonly used in science labs but usually not
taught until the college level. They also were able to see how
science can help solve issues of paternity and identify crime
suspects.
Submitted by Tina Giovenco, high school biology teacher
Driving while
drugged, distracted,
drunk, or drowsy
has dangerous
consequences.
While many
students understand
that driving while
distracted or
impaired can be lifethreatening, many
do not know why.
Students in Deb
Daniels’ health class
Robert Story
learned the dangerous
details of driving while
impaired, along with the financial and legal repercussions
from committing those acts, from presenters with the
Broome County STOP DWI program.
While all forms of dangerous driving can be lifethreatening, it was important for students to understand
the differences between distracted, drowsy, drugged, and
drunk driving. The class was surprised at the difference
between the normal field of vision while driving and
while texting or using a cell phone, and while driving
drowsy.
Students also got the chance to wear the vision
impairment goggles to see first-hand what it’s like to try
and perform simple tasks while impaired.
Pictured (l-r): Kelsey Wiser, Krysta Shannon, Jesse Redfern, and Alicia Sullivan
English class tastes southern culture
Students in Alexandra Roma’s freshman English class literally
got a taste of Southern culture during Southern Foods Day.
The class recently read “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper
Lee, which is set in Maycomb, Alabama. As a way for students
to better understand the novel, Mrs. Roma and co-teacher
Steve Tronovitch emphasized “local color,” the customs of a
specific region.
A wide variety of food and beverages was brought, including
hummingbird cake, red velvet cupcakes, cornbread, macaroni
and cheese, apple brown betty, tea cakes, grits, and biscuits.
“It was a wonderful class and the students did a terrific job
with their food and drink choices,” said Mr. Tronovitch.
Pictured (l-r): Daniil Lavrinovich, Austin Smith, Cody Bogue, and Kevin
Solomon
Spring/Budget 2014
District
CF Dollars for Scholars update
7
Attention high school seniors and parents:
Our Chenango Forks Dollars for Scholars chapter is accepting scholarship applications through May 31. Our Dollars
for Scholars chapter has implemented new software provided by Scholarship America that will move all of our chapter’s
scholarships online and will allow us to be more efficient with our awarding process. Students received the information and a
handout of helpful information at a class meeting in April.
Since support for CF Dollars for Scholars comes from our generous community, any district resident who is a senior - whether
at CF high school, home-schooled, or paying tuition to another school - is eligible to apply for our 2014 scholarships. After
completing and submitting the online application, an interview will be schedule with one of our board members. We expect
to announce the awards at the Senior Honors Assembly on June 11. If you have any questions on eligibility or would like
additional information, contact Carol Denz at [email protected].
Here are three reasons why this new software helpful:
1. An online scholarship application for local Dollars for Scholars awards. The new software will eliminate paper
scholarship applications and enable students to apply online. All you need to do is visit our chapter’s website, www.
chenangoforks.dollarsforscholars.org, and create your student profile. Applicants must provide the same basic information as
on a paper scholarship application, and will be able to store and update information such as GPA, extracurricular activities,
community activities, and letters of recommendation throughout their high school and college career. This means applicants
need to fill in the form only once for potentially multiple scholarship opportunities.
2. Fill out one profile and apply for multiple scholarships. By filling in the student profile, applicants will see all of our
chapter’s awards for which they qualify and can apply for all with just a couple of clicks. Across the nation, Scholarship
America is working with corporate and foundation partners to add new scholarships to the database. Any time an applicant’s
profile matches the criteria for a new scholarship, no matter its source, they can apply without filling in a new form.
3. It’s much more than just scholarships. The student profile and dashboard provide a single source for an array of important
information. As a student user of the system, you will have access to exclusive volunteer and internship opportunities, financial
aid packages and college success tools and resources, and be able to export a resume with your high school achievements and
accolades.
Ready to start? Visit our chapter website to begin qualifying for local and national scholarships at www.chenangoforks.
dollarsforscholars.org. Remember, to be considered, online applications must be submitted no later than May 31.
Submitted by Carol Denz, CF Dollars for Scholars Board president
Construction projects to improve efficiency, security
LED lighting in the HS pool
The pool area will be brighter and will
not require bulb replacement. Lights
can also be shut off when the pool is
not in use (currently the 1,000 watt
bulbs run 18 hours a day). This is part
of a “Net Zero” project where we spend
$100,000 but then recover most of
it through aid and energy incentives
the next year, as well as energy savings
moving forward. During the summer of
2015, we plan to install LED lighting in
all areas, 3,800 fixtures in all.
Security updates
Our security officer, Dave Burdick,
has secured funds through the Safe
Act to replace the glass doors between
the middle and high school buildings.
Security system upgrades will also be
made, including the installation of more
badge readers in key locations at all
buildings.
Solar array installation
By the end of May, solar arrays will be
installed on each of the buildings and
the bus garage. This lease purchase will
cost half of what the electricity being
replaced would have cost. In addition
to saving money, this is an educational
tool. We have sent flyers about the solar
monitor to all district teachers, who will
be able to view the results and use them
with students.
Submitted by Bernard McDermott, director of
operations
Spring/Budget 2014
Technology Spotlight
Censorship brought to life for juniors during scavenger hunt
8
Special education teacher Steve Tronovitch provided an innovative way for students in Andrea
Gumble’s junior English class to learn about censorship through an electronic scavenger hunt.
Unlike most scavenger hunts, students did not collect random objects as part of a game, but
instead scanned objects or images with the Aurasma app on their iPads. Once the image was
scanned, a video or document popped up with an explanation or short lesson.
The Aurasma app allows one to scan an image and upload a video or document that will play
when the image is scanned again.
For example, students scanned an image of the parental advisory symbol that is found on CD’s
or video games and a video popped up of Mr. Tronovitch explaining the history of censorship in
the music industry.
“The students enjoyed the scavenger hunt and were definitely engaged,” Mr. Tronovitch said.
“We had some great conversations on censorship and how it is still applicable today.”
Mr. Tronovitch is looking to expand his use of technology in the classroom to include more iPad-based research projects.
Prekindergarten students have a natural talent for technology
The saying goes that even young children can operate some of today’s latest gadgets. In Danielle
Wood’s prekindergarten class, students are using that technological know-how for learning.
Prekindergarten students start the day by signing in on the classroom smartboard. Once
everyone is settled in, they read a story on the smartboard and sing a song. The class’ favorite is
a funky version of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” recorded by Stevie Ray Vaughn, who they will tell
you is the greatest rock and roll legend of all time.
After the song, students break up into groups and work on centers, which are also technologybased. Students have activities and games on the smartboard, computer and iPad that tie in with
that week’s lesson.
“Technology is just so versatile and engaging,” said Ms. Wood. “It allows for greater
individualization depending on the students’ needs and also aligns well with Common Core
standards.”
CFE library focuses on reading, presenting with technology
Technology has become a major player in the CFE library.
CF librarian Patricia Sweeney is developing new ways to use technology in the library to promote literacy, library skills and a
love of reading. Students use a multitude of programs and apps on the library iPads to play educational games, do research, or
do creative class projects.
Third-graders use PowerPoint to create presentations on comparing and contrasting different animals. By doing this, students
not only learn information on animals, but also learn how to put together a concise and organized presentation.
“Students get excited about it (apps on library iPads) and do their own projects at home,” said Mrs. Sweeney. “Now they are
creators of information instead of just consumers.”
Using technology in the library also teachers students how to explore the world instead of using it for entertainment only. The
app “News-o-Matic” is an interactive news source for kids that provides current news in a fun, informative way, while keeping
them entertained. “News-o-Matic” is just one of the many apps in use at the library.
Spring/Budget 2014
Alumni
Corrine Wedlake - Class of ‘03
9
If anyone understands the rewards of hard work and perseverance, it’s CF alumna Corrine Wedlake
(Class of ‘03).
Corrine is currently training to become an assistant director with the Directors Guild of America.
Her job responsibilities include managing and sometimes setting the background for the set,
makeup and costume departments, and being the point person for the actors on set. She also is
in charge of making sure everyone is updated on the set status, handing out scripts and contracts,
preparing the daily production report, facilitating between the departments and actors, and
making sure the actors are wired for microphones and received their final makeup and hair touchups.
If you guessed that the laundry list of job responsibilities makes for a long day, you would be
correct. While working on her favorite project, the NBC comedy “Community,” it was common
for Corrine to work 16 to 19 hours a day.
“I loved my department, we had an almost weekly occurrence of amazing guest cast actors and at the end of the day I was
proud of the show we had created. After working on “Community” I knew I could do anything,” said Corrine.
The road to landing a job in Hollywood began at CF. During high school, Corrine was part of the stage crew for Upstagers and
played flute in the school band. “Being involved in Upstagers as well as band for a number of years taught me a great deal about
the collaborative process, about being a part of something bigger than yourself,” said Corrine. “I was always more interested in
being part of an ensemble than performing on my own.”
Corrine went on to work on a local film, “Summer of Tomorrows” by Chris Johnson, as a script supervisor and eventually as
the assistant director. She then studied film and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse
University. While at SU Corrine worked on the film “Session” by Haim Bouzaglo, a visiting professor at the time.
“I would say be certain you are 100 percent committed to it. If you’re not sure, it’s not the business for you. (The) hours are
incredibly long, pay is low for the first few years of your career, and it’s physically and emotionally taxing,” said Corrine. “If
you’re still crazy about it after all those obstacles, move to LA and get involved.”
Middle school students present at regional fair
Middle school students Josh Black, Ethan Cetton,
Samuel Forker, Ethan Glenn and Trudi Bennett
were presenters at the Southern Tier Regional
Scholastic Science Fair conducted at SUNY
Broome in March.
The students worked on their projects for a few
months with topics covering oxygen production,
the effects of music on learning, solubility rates
of salt and sugar, the acid content of soil, and
growing bacteria on magnetic fields. Their
projects were in addition to the schoolwide
science fair projects students completed earlier in
the year.
Trudi, Ethan Cetton, and Josh received
Honorable Mention awards, Sam won a bronze
medal, and Ethan Glenn won a silver medal.
In addition, Ethan Cetton won a faculty award
and Josh won an award from the Chenango
Forks “STEAM” project.
Pictured (l-r): Josh Black, Ethan Cetton, Ethan Glenn, and Samuel Forker. Not pictured:
Trudi Bennett
“We are very proud of these students, and it is encouraging to see such motivation, self-discipline, and effort on their part,”
said middle school science teacher Tim Vermaat.
Music and Arts
Congratulations to our All-County participants
10
Spring/Budget 2014
5-6 All-County Band
7-9 All-County Band
10-12 All-County Band
Alexis Kunkel
Pictured (l-r): Katie Zimmerman, Kaiyu Tio, and Gabe
Whitney
Pictured (l-r): Kyra Salinkas and Garrett Krisko
7-9 All-County Chorus
10-12 All-County Chorus
Pictured (l-r) - Front: Kylie Gilroy, Cassie Pinataro, Brooke Warpus,
Jennifer Dyer. Back: Nick Dimatos, Michael Sehn, Sam Beston,Victoria
Garcia. Not pictured: Sean Wood
Pictured (l-r): : Kelly Saroka, Claire Stocum, Natalie Valla, Olivia Haskell,
Ryan Simmons, Christopher Roberts
Jazz Cabaret chases winter blues
away
The high school jazz band helped herald the spring season
with its annual jazz cabaret concert. The middle school
activity area was transformed into a fun atmosphere with
music, decorations, and plenty of desserts and beverages for
everyone.
The jazz band also performed with local steel drum band
Panigma, which brought a tropical flavor to the evening.
Special thanks go to band boosters Deb Daniels and her
foods classes, and the band parents who donated their time
and desserts.
Pictured:The HS Jazz Band performs for family and friends at the annual
Jazz Cabaret
Music and Arts
Art students receive national recognition
Spring/Budget 2014
11
CF senior Alexis Gates and
High School Middle School
sixth-grader Avery Copeland
recently had their artwork
Abigail Pratt
Taylor Arno
recognized as High Merit
Maisen Panko
Morgan Ashman
pieces in the Fall 2013
Jamie Franco
Mariah Bouck
edition of the Celebrating Art
Liz Syron
Avery Copeland
Journal, a national publication
Christopher Lowe
Laura French
highlighting artwork from
middle and high school students
Caleb Kellicutt
Meghan Grannis
across the country.
Morgan Leslie
Holland Hunink
To receive this award, a
Abby Panko
Viktoria Lavrinovich
student’s artwork must be
Avery Copeland
Alexis Gates
Kara Hess-Hover
Kevin Matson
juried in the top five percent
Katherine DeNinis
Madison Meeker
of submissions. For this contest, more than 7,000 pieces were submitted from
Rielly Arno
Jenson Ohern
schools across the nation.
Madison Hefley
Blayre Thornton
Alexis’ and Avery’s work will be published in the Celebrating Art Journal along
Kaityln Morris
with a special recognition featured on the journal’s Facebook page under the
Honorable Mention Students tab.
Alexis Gates
Fourteen high school and 12 middle school students will also be published
in the journal. Their names are listed to the right. Congratulations to our CF
artists.
Collaboration is key in photoshop class
Students collaborated with each other to create posters
inspired by the famous Gettysburg Address by incorporating
an image of President Abraham Lincoln with imagery and
text that reflected the symbolic and pictorial language used in
the address.
When the posters were complete, each student recorded a
recitation of the address and tenth-grader Liam Walsh edited
the voices together and set it to a short film featuring the
poster images.
Pictured(l-r): Alicia Sullivan and Liam Walsh
The collaboration
didn’t end there,
however.
The class teamed
up with local NPR
affiliate WSKG as
part of its project
with documentary
film-maker Ken
Burns and his new
film on the address,
inspired by The
Greenwood School
Gettysburg Address
project. WSKG is
exhibiting the posters
in their studios and
aired Liam’s video on
WSKG-TV in April,
before the airing of
the documentary.
Poster by Kelly Parmeter
“It’s always exciting,
as well as educationally sound, to be able to have students
work on a “real” thing and participate in live work activities
by collaborating with actual businesses,” said Keith Rosko,
fine arts teacher and technology integration specialist.
Spring/Budget 2014
Athletics
Varsity cheerleading
12
Boys baseball team helps a
community member in need
If you have played baseball in the Binghamton area in the
last few decades, you probably had Jingles as an umpire.
Michael “Jingles” Rubino was an umpire in the Binghamton
and surrounding areas for the last 30 years. In March,
American Legion Post
80 held a fundraiser to
help cover the cost of
his medical and funeral
expenses where the CF
varsity baseball team
volunteered by serving
food and cleaning up.
Pictured (l-r): Brandy Engel (Academic All-Star) and Breana White
(Sportsmanship Award)
Varsity bowling
A special thank you
goes to the volunteers
for their hard work and
dedication.
Submitted by Janet
Bubniak
Pictured (l-r): Nate Butler, Chady Raychel,
and Michael Bubniak
Varsity wrestling
Pictured (l-r): Devin Hopkins (Sportsmanship Award) and Ashley Bennett
(Academic All-Star)
*All athletics photos are courtesy of the Athletics Department
Pictured (l-r) - Front: Isaiah Zimmer (All-Division), Dylan Studer (All-Division), and Carl Rouse (All-Division,
Sportsmanship Award). Back: Allan Michael Rios (Section IV Champion, All-Division), and Bobby Clapper
(Academic All-Star)
Joe Silvanic (All-Division)
Athletics
Varsity boys swimming and diving
Spring/Budget 2014
Pictured (l-r): Luke Warpus (All-Conference) and Mike
Diekow (Academic All-Star)
Pictured (l-r): Aidan Houlihan (All-Division) and Joe
LoPiccolo (Sportsmanship Award)
13
Chris Roberts (Section IV, Class C
Diving Champion)
Varsity boys basketball
Varsity girls basketball
Pictured (l-r): Andrew Ziegenfus (All Conference), Dan Gridley (Academic
All-Star), Logan Hall (Sportsmanship Award)
Pictured (l-r): Alex Yoest (All-Conference), Sara Clark (Academic All-Star),
and Kayla Williams (Sportsmanship Award)
Swim team wins Sectionals for first time in 13 years
Life has come full circle for boys varsity swim coach Jonathan
Edwards, as the team won its first Section IV title in 13 years.
During the 2001 season Mr. Edwards was a freshman and a
member of the Section IV championship team at CF. Now, as
the head coach of the varsity team, he has experienced victory
both in and out of the pool.
‘Winning a sectional title is always a great accomplishment,
but this championship for me, is even sweeter,” said Mr.
Edwards. “This group overcame many hurdles throughout
the year in order to reach this point, and we did it together
as a team. From top to bottom, everyone played a role in this
awesome achievement.”
The team ended the season with a 5-2 record with victories
over Chenango Valley, Greene, Susquehanna Valley, Johnson
City, and Windsor.
Pictured (l-r): Jared Hopkins, Alex Niman, Matt Starr, Luke Warpus,
Joe LoPiccolo, Mike Diekow, Zach Norton, Ethan Knox, Caleb Kellicut,
Logan DePersis, Aidan Houlihan, Kyle Norton, Anthony Smith, Jake
Kumpon, Robert Pinitaro, Jake French, Coach: Jon Edwards. Missing:
Nick Dimatos, David Yevtukh, Dan Driesbaugh, Mike Orzelek. Photo
courtesy of Kenneth Starr
14
Principal’s Message
Spring/Budget 2014
Elementary
Published author visits CFE
If you are like us, you have really
been wondering if spring was ever
going to arrive. Fortunately, it looks
like it has.
The warmer weather brings lighter
clothing, the sounds of children
playing on the playground and, most
importantly, a brighter attitude.
Just like March “coming in like a
lion and going out like a lamb,”
Nicole Knapp,
spring comes in like a lion with the
elementary principal
New York state tests for grade 3-5
students, but goes out like a lamb
with many fun activities for our p-K through 5 students.
Here are just a few of the fun events coming up at Chenango
Forks Elementary School:
•
Grandparents Day for second-graders
•
Classroom picnics
•
Field days
•
Fifth-grade band and chorus concerts
•
Fifth-grade graduation
Nationally published author Amy Ludwig VanDerwater
visited CFE as part of PARP (Parents as Reading Partners)
Month to share poems and her love of writing and nature.
Students heard poems from her award-winning book,
“Forest Has a Song,” a collection of poems centered on her
ponderings while walking in nature. A collection of her poems
was written on slips of paper tucked into a log riddled with
holes from a woodpecker. Students were asked to pick a poem
from the log for her to read.
VanDerwater also discussed the importance of observation
and wondering in her writing. “It’s important to be interesting
in order to be a writer, and to be interesting, you need to be
interested,” she said. VanDerwater also mentioned that some
of her poems involved research in order to find information
that would be useful in her writing.
Students were encouraged to practice what they are passionate
about, whether it be writing, drawing, or playing an
instrument or sport.
We also have several classroom plays and performances that
will culminate a year of successful learning.
Spring can also be a great time to set up one last parent
teacher conference to get an idea on how your child has
progressed with our new curriculum this year. Your child’s
teacher will have many fun ideas to keep your child learning
over the summer vacation.
Spring is a time for celebration and we welcome our CFE
family members to join us. Keep an eye open for notices of
dates, times and locations so you have every opportunity to be
a part of our upcoming events. - Nicole Knapp, CFE principal
Pictured (l-r): Amy Ludwig VanDerwater,Tessa Kocak, and Jaylyn Dobish
Poetry recitation teaches young people confidence, poise
The second-grade classrooms were filled with poetry in the
month of March, as all students were preparing for the
annual Second Grade Poetry Recitation. Each student chose
Pictured front (l-r): Sierra Perry, Kyra Malane, Amelia Tasber, Robert Lee.
Back (l-r): Stephen Samsel, Connor Phillips, Keegan Watson, Joseph
Worden, and TJ Testa
a poem, memorized it, and practiced reciting it with proper
pace, expression and clarity. In March, the students recited
their poems on stage in front of three judges. The top boy
and girl from each classroom were chosen based on their
recitation. The winners from each classroom were: Connor
Phillips, Keegan Watson, and Amelia Tasber from Mrs.
Lawton’s class; Robert Lee, Joseph Worden, and Kyra Malane
from Mrs. Lapham’s class; TJ Testa and Meghan Richard
from Mrs. Marvin’s class; and Stephen Samsel and Sierra
Perry from Mrs. Mirabito’s class.
Amelia Tasber and TJ Testa were chosen as the overall
winners from the recitation and went on to Binghamton
High School to recite their poems at the Eleanor Henricks
Countywide Poetry Recitation for Children. Congratulations
to all the second graders.
Submitted by Stephanie Mirabito, second-grade teacher
Elementary
Second-graders experience Olympic spirit
Spring/Budget 2014
Chenango Forks Elementary second-graders recently held
their version of the Olympic games.
The classes were concluding their lessons on ancient Greece
in their ELA curriculum and, as a way to engage the students,
second-grade teachers Heather Marvin and Stephanie
Mirabito collaborated with physical education teacher Jarod
McMullen to bring the ancient games to life.
“We wanted to make the curriculum exciting and engaging,”
said Mrs. Marvin.
With the Winter Olympics conducted this year, the lesson
was certainly timely.
Students chose a country to represent, created a banner, and
carried the banner into the gymnasium during the opening
ceremony. Students from the other second-grade classrooms
15
cheered as the Olympic
fanfare played over the
speakers.
A short explanation of the
ancient Olympics was given
by Mr. McMullen on how
the ideas of trying your best,
friendly competition, and
different countries coming
together are ideas that are
still relevant today, from
elementary school to the
professional world.
Students competed in events
that were similar to those
conducted in the ancient
Pictured: Kristen Koweno and
Olympics, such as running,
Tommy Hillis
hurdling, throwing, and
scooter races. After each race, the winning team donned laurel
wreaths and stood on the podium while their classmates
cheered.
“Our favorite part was seeing the excitement of the children
as they participated in the events. The kids recognized the
connection between the stories that we had read to them and
what they were doing in the Olympics,” said Mrs. Marvin.
All teachers involved hope to hold the second-grade Olympics
next year and deepen the students’ understanding of ancient
Greece in a fun and engaging way.
Mrs. Mirabito places laurel crowns on the winners of an event in the
Second-grade Olympics.
You can find photos of the second grade Olympics on our
photo gallery page, http://www.cforks.org/PhotoGalleries.aspx
Farm fun for kindergarten
If you can’t take the kindergartener to the farm, bring the farm
to the kindergartener. Brian Aukema, owner of The Dutch Hills
Creamery on Knapp Hill Road, did just that.
Students learned about farm equipment and how each helps sow
and harvest food. Mr. Aukema brought replicas to demonstrate to
students how the equipment works.
At the end of the presentation, students also had a chance to smell
and touch different types of hay and grains harvested from the
farm.
Brian Aukema
Middle School
16
Spring/Budget 2014
Principal’s Message
At Chenango Forks Middle School, we reinforce positive words, behaviors and habits every day. We
don’t ask for perfection; however, we do ask for a positive approach toward teachers, staff, friends and
school work. Remaining positive, no matter how hard the task, will help students realize that even the
biggest obstacles they face are really not all that big.
Our middle school teachers and staff create an environment of “positive” in their classroom, a place
where all students have a chance to
succeed.
Lori Pourby,
middle school principal
Try saying something positive to
someone today and see what it gets
you. You may be pleasantly surprised.
We are in the final stretch of the 201314 school year and we will continue to encourage our students
to stay positive and “make good choices.” -Lori Pourby, MS
principal
Learning by doing in advanced science
The students in Maureen Gregory’s advanced science class are
learning by doing. The class covers both seventh-grade life
science and eighth-grade physical science in a single year.
In addition to lab work and projects, the class also uses
Schoology.com, an online class forum, where they complete
and turn in assignments and watch and discuss videos.
Laboratory work and media have become an integral part of
the advanced science class. “We incorporate as many handson activities and labs during class time to reinforce all of
the concepts they are learning and reading about,” said Ms.
Gregory.
Students recently made edible DNA models with
marshmallows, licorice, and toothpicks in order to learn the
base pairs of DNA structure, and dissected owl pellets during
a separate lesson on ecosystems and food webs. The class has
also started a video production project creating videos to help
review and introduce class topics.
Pictured (l-r): Nik Boeker and Ana Undercoffer
Pictured (l-r) Nik Boeker and Thomas Borst
Pictured (l-r): Josie Kaminsky, Anna Kalivoda, Lexi Bartlow, and Jayden
Ouye
Middle School
Sixth grade is in the business of being kind
Spring/Budget 2014
Part of building self-esteem is learning how to communicate
well with others.
In Karen Shapiro’s sixth-grade health class, students created
business cards as a way to learn how to introduce themselves,
work on their communication skills, and build confidence.
17
The project required students to add information that
describes themselves - such as hobbies, character, and family on their business cards and introduce themselves to 10 adults
in the middle school who they didn’t already know. Students
had a chance to practice with Mrs. Shapiro before handing
out their cards.
“I was concerned that some of the students might not have
the self-confidence to do this, but they all did an amazing job.
Everyone made new friends,” said Mrs. Shapiro.
A few business cards created by Mrs. Shapiro’s
sixth-grade health class.
Pictured (l-r): Gavin Secoolish, Lyreck Lake, Dante Hovancik, and Sierra
Eaton
Students in Spanish class have a
passion for fashion
Who says fashion isn’t a part of school? In Manola Gregrow’s
Spanish 7 classes, students dressed in a variety of off-the-wall
costumes for their 2014 Spanish Fashion Show.
The fashion show provided a creative and fun way for
students to practice their clothing and color vocabulary along
with the verb “to wear.” Students also had to describe the
models’ outfits in Spanish.
Every student participated in the preparation for this fashion
show. There were announcers, models, a video camera
operator, a disc jockey, and eighth-grade student judges, who
judged the models outfits and creativity. Models received
first, second and third place awards.
After the show, the students celebrated with a traditional
fiesta with food, music and dancing.
Pictured (l-r): Ethan Trevett and Jared Gage
High School
18
Principal’s Message
After a rather lengthy winter, it’s time
to start thinking about the end of the
school year. As this time of the year
usually gets very busy for both students
and families, we put together a list of
some of our more important events to
help in the planning process.
John Hillis,
high school principal
If you have any questions or concerns,
please call the high school main office at
648-7544.
-John Hillis, HS principal
Spring/Budget 2014
Important dates & exams
5/12: AP Biology: 8 a.m.
6/17: US History & Gov
Regents: 8 a.m.
5/12: AP Physics: Noon
6/17: Living Environment
Regents: Noon
5/15: AP World History: 8 a.m.
6/18: Global History &
Geography Regents: 8 a.m.
5/16: Prom: 8 p.m. - midnight
6/18: Algebra 2/Trig. Regents:
Noon
5/20: Budget Vote: 9 p.m.
6/19: English Regents: 8 a.m.
5/21: Honor Society Induction
Ceremony: 7 p.m.
6/19: Earth Science Regents:
Noon
5/22: End of 35-week Marking
Period
6/20: Integrated Algebra
Regents: 8 a.m.
5/30: Honors Banquet (Time
TBA)
6/20: Physics Regents: Noon
6/3: Regents I Algebra 1 Common Core: 8 a.m.
6/20: Geometry Regents: Noon
6/3: Regents ELA - Common
Core: Noon
6/24: Chemistry Regents: 8
a.m.
6/11: Senior Award Ceremony: 8
a.m., Senior Picnic to follow
6/27: Graduation Rehearsal:
Noon
6/27: Graduation: 7 p.m.
CFHS learns how to save a life
During a two-day course organized by physical education teachers and
community volunteers from local EMT and fire stations, all high school
students trained and certified to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants.
Students were taught the basics of administering CPR, checking the scene for
safety and if the victim was responsive, contacting emergency personnel, and
how to do chest compressions.
“It helps the kids understand the importance of learning a new skill (CPR),
about helping others and volunteerism, and it gives them a reality check that
this could happen to someone they are close to,” said high school physical
education teacher Victoria Kwartler.
Many students were grateful for this experience so that in the event that a
friend or family member needs CPR, they are able to help. For complete
certification, students could opt to take a written test. At the time of this
writing, 140 students have paid to take the test.
“Students on a whole were very receptive to the idea of learning CPR. They all
realized that there may be a point where they will need these skills,” said high
school physical education teacher Michael Curtis.
Joe Silvanic
19
High School
Forks Science Olympiad team takes third in regional competition
Spring/Budget 2014
Fifteen regional schools competed in the annual Science
Olympiad, where students demonstrated their skills in earth
science, chemistry, biology and engineering.
Out of the 15, Vestal, Maine-Endwell, and Chenango Forks
ranked in the top three.
The 14-member CF team competed in 20 events and received
medals in 11 of them. The team placed first in the astronomy,
chemistry of food, and disease detective competitions. The
last time a CF Science Olympiad team competed in the statelevel competition was in 1996.
“The students did an amazing job at the regional competition.
They worked so hard at each of their events, with most
students participating
in several events,
and I am so proud
of them to score as
high as they did.
Chenango Forks has
not been to the state
Science Olympiad
competition in
decades and it is a
real testament to
the hard work and
determination of
the students that we
Pictured (l-r) Hailey Brace and Seamus
are finally headed
Houlihan
back,” said Science
Olympiad advisor
Sabrina Laine.
Pictured (l-r) - Front: Joe Frissora, Aiden Houlihan,
Jacob Hunink, and Kelly Parmeter. Back: Sydney Slottje,
Melissa Boeker,Victoria Godden, Hailey Brace, Blaine
Russ, Kevin Vogel, Johnathan Thrall, Kellyn Slottje,
Seamus Houlihan, and Nicholas Hurd.
Photos submitted by Sabrina Laine.
French language forges cultural connections within our community
French class students braved freezing cold temperatures to
view a performance of “Les Miserables” by SRO
Productions at The Schorr Family Firehouse Stage
in Johnson City. The musical is based on the novel
written by Victor Hugo, which Upton Sinclair
referred to as “one of the half-dozen greatest
novels in the world.”
The performance of “Les Misérables” was
a full-immersion theater experience in
which the action took place not only on
the main stage, but on spotlighted smaller
stages around the theater. Our students were
entranced from start to finish.
Prior to the theater performance, CF
students joined their counterparts
from Harpursville for dinner at The
Spot Restaurant. They then traveled
together to the performance. It was a great opportunity for
students from both districts who participated in the trip to
Montreal last spring to reconnect. This familiarity could
come in handy if the class decides to combine schools
again in order to lower the cost for our next trip to
Quebec.
There was no cost to The Chenango Forks School
District for this trip. The Harpursville French Club
contacted us with the offer to join them on their
school bus. Our students received a discounted
price for dinner and the performance, and
paid for both out-of-pocket. This sharing of
resources between our two districts gave our
French students the opportunity to attend a truly
spectacular performance.
Submitted by Jerauld Myers, MS French teacher
Home of the Blue Devils
20
1 Gordon Drive
Binghamton, NY 13901
Spring/Budget 2014
Nonprofit Organization
U.S. Postage PAID
Permit No. 155
Binghamton, NY 13901
Superintendent of Schools
Lloyd “Joe” Peck, Ed.D.
Business Executive
Lena Hurd
Director of Operations
Bernard McDermott
ECRWSS
Postal Patron
IMPORTANT DATES:
May
8: BOE Meeting and Budget Hearing
12-15: CFE Pre-K and Kindergarten Registration
16: HS Prom
19: MS/HS Band Spring Concert
20: Budget Vote - HS Auditorium, Noon to 9 p.m.
21: HS Honor Society Induction
21-30: Grades 4 & 8 Science Exams
23 - 26: No School - Memorial Day Weekend
26: MS/HS Marching Band in Memorial Day Parade
28: MS/HS Chorus Spring Concert
June
2: Grade 4 & 8 Science Written Exam
3: Regents Exams Common Core Algebra 1 and ELA
MS/HS Half-day dismissal
11: HS Senior Assembly and Picnic
12: BOE Meeting
13: CFE Recognition Assembly
17-26: Regents Exams
27: HS Graduation