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C E N T R A L S C H O O L D I S T R I C T WINTER 2013 Sharing the stage in a unique celebration, the Monticello Central School District held a joint induction ceremony on Sunday, November 3rd to honor 27 National Honor Society inductees and ten inaugural Hall of Distinction inductees. While one ceremony celebrated the potential our students have to make their mark on the world, the other honored those whose influence, experience and life’s work have left an indelible footprint on our history. “By combining both ceremonies, we hoped that our Honor Society inductees would be able to appreciate the accomplishments of our Hall of Distinction inductees,” explained Monticello Superintendent Daniel A. Teplesky. “It is possible to achieve greatness on many different levels, and the Board of Education and the Hall of Distinction Committee hoped to share that with our students and with the community.” Hall of Distinction Committee member Les Kristt skillfully acted as the master of ceremonies and introduced distinguished guests including Congressman Chris Gibson, New York State Senator John J. Bonacic and New York State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther. Each congratulated all inductees on their accomplishments. “I’ve been to a lot of events similar to this one,” said Senator Bonacic, “but this is a first. What a special day for all involved. I am honored to be here today.” Each Hall of Distinction inductee was introduced by family or friends who shared stories of their accomplishments and personal anecdotes. After each Hall of Distinction member, three new National Honor Society members were escorted to the stage by a current member. Their biographies were read by NHS Officers Jack Drapkin, John Camera, Lily McCausland and Alexander Rokicki. “This is amazing,” said inductee and Class of 1984 alumnus Roland Paramore, who credited his parents with his success in life. “I am so completely honored. I haven’t been home for a while. I’m so glad I came.” Applications for the 2014 Hall of Distinction nominations will be available at www. monticelloschools.net beginning in January, 2014. Learn more about the Hall of Distinction and National Honor Society inductees at www.monticelloschools.net. TABLE OF CONTENTS Hall of Distinction .........................2 New Teachers ...............................3 MS Media Club .............................4 Transportation Department ...........5 MS & Cooke Gardens....................6 Teacher Award..............................7 Fair Funding for Schools ...............8 HALL OF DISTINCTION INAUGURAL INDUCTEES Harrison “Slam” Allen Alumnus, Class of 1984 Robert H. Benmosche Alumnus, Monticello Junior High School, 1962 Milton K. Berlye Teacher, 1940-1970 Stephanie Blythe Alumna, Class of 1987 Lawrence Henry Cooke Alumnus, Class of 1931 Sonia Pressman Fuentes Alumna, Class of 1946 David Kaufman Alumnus, Class of 1947 Jeff McBride Alumnus, Class of 1977 Ida Mae Mitchell MCSD Board of Education, 1969-1977 Roland Paramore Alumnus, Class of 1984 ABOVE: Inaugural Hall of Distinction Inductees in attendance at November 3rd ceremony. From leſt to right: Sonia Pressman Fuentes, Roland Paramore, David Kaufman and Harrison “Slam” Allen. Unique ceremony honors achievement Hall of Distinction, National Honor Society induction ceremonies combine to celebrate accomplishments - past, present and future ABOVE: MCSD Superintendent Daniel A. Teplesky looks on as NHS members John Camera and Jack Drapkin unveil the inductee plaques.

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C e n t r a l S C h o o l D i S t r i C t winter 2013

Sharing the stage in a unique celebration, the Monticello Central School District held a joint induction ceremony on Sunday, November 3rd to honor 27 National Honor Society inductees and ten inaugural Hall of Distinction inductees.

While one ceremony celebrated the potential our students have to make their mark on the world, the other honored those whose influence, experience and life’s work have left an indelible footprint on our history.

“By combining both ceremonies, we hoped that our Honor Society inductees would be able to appreciate the accomplishments of our Hall of Distinction inductees,” explained Monticello Superintendent Daniel A. Teplesky. “It is possible to achieve greatness on many different levels, and the Board of Education and the Hall of Distinction Committee hoped to share that with our students and with the community.”

Hall of Distinction Committee member Les Kristt skillfully acted as the master of ceremonies and introduced distinguished guests

including Congressman Chris Gibson, New York State Senator John J. Bonacic and New York State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther. Each congratulated all inductees on their accomplishments. “I’ve been to a lot of events similar to this one,” said Senator Bonacic, “but this is a first. What a special day for all involved. I am honored to be here today.”

Each Hall of Distinction inductee was introduced by family or friends who shared stories of their accomplishments and personal anecdotes. After each Hall of Distinction member, three new National Honor Society members were escorted to the stage by a current member. Their biographies were read by NHS Officers Jack Drapkin, John Camera, Lily McCausland and Alexander Rokicki.

“This is amazing,” said inductee and Class of 1984 alumnus Roland Paramore,

who credited his parents with his success in life. “I am so completely honored. I haven’t been home for a while. I’m so glad I came.”

Applications for the 2014 Hall of Distinction nominations will be available at www.monticelloschools.net beginning in January, 2014. Learn more about the Hall of Distinction and National Honor Society inductees at www.monticelloschools.net.

T a b l e o f C o n T e n T s

Hall of Distinction .........................2New Teachers ...............................3MS Media Club .............................4Transportation Department ...........5MS & Cooke Gardens ....................6Teacher Award ..............................7Fair Funding for Schools ...............8

HALL OF DISTINCTIONINAUGURAL INDUCTEES

Harrison “Slam” Allen Alumnus, Class of 1984

Robert H. Benmosche Alumnus, Monticello Junior High School, 1962

Milton K. Berlye Teacher, 1940-1970

Stephanie Blythe Alumna, Class of 1987

Lawrence Henry Cooke Alumnus, Class of 1931

Sonia Pressman Fuentes Alumna, Class of 1946

David Kaufman Alumnus, Class of 1947

Jeff McBride Alumnus, Class of 1977

Ida Mae Mitchell MCSD Board of Education, 1969-1977

Roland Paramore Alumnus, Class of 1984

aBoVe: inaugural hall of Distinction inductees in attendance at november 3rd ceremony. From left to right: Sonia Pressman Fuentes, roland Paramore, David Kaufman and harrison “Slam” allen.

Unique ceremony honors achievementhall of Distinction, national honor Society induction ceremonies combine to celebrate accomplishments - past, present and future

aBoVe: MCSD Superintendent Daniel a. teplesky looks on as nhS members John Camera and Jack Drapkin unveil the inductee plaques.

Central School District w i n t e r 2 0 1 32

The lobby of the Arnold Packer Hughes Auditorium is now the official home of the Monticello Hall of Distinction. A beautiful new wall was designed and built by students with the help of technology teacher Wells Shope.

The Applied Tech Sciences and Skills Class began by analyzing the space, then submitted designs to the Hall of Distinction Selection Committee. The committee ultimately chose the design of student Chelsea Wayman, which is the wall on which the Hall of Distinction inductee plaques are hung.

Many hours of hard work went into the creation of the wall – designed for our distinguished inductees by our talented students.

27 students inducted to Monticello High School National Honor Society

Wall created by Applied Tech Sciences and Skills class provides custom showplace for Hall of Distinction inductees

Established more than 70 years ago, The Monticello High School chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. NHS students have committed themselves to the pursuit of academic excellence, community improvement, and personal development.

At Monticello, students are required to have a grade point average of 85 or above and must perform community service, have character references and demonstrate leadership qualities.

November inductees include: Maria Astras, Jennifer Avila, Taylor Bell-Schreiber, Hayden Carnell, Deja Davis-Montes, Jennifer Dennis, Laura Doherty, Lena Episalla, Bryan Escobar-Ramirez, Ali Fischer, Heather Giza, Morgan Holloran, Stephen Hong, Morgan Heebner, Jane Hyman, Patrick Miraglia, Andrew Nagoda, Christina Poli, Kate Purcell, Linda Seminario, Emily Smith, William Smith, Daeshaun Thompson, Alyssa Vilela, Courtney Wissman, Elesha Young and Alison Wells.

Current members are: Joel Aguilar, Emily Bockman, John Camera, Aga Chowdhury, Matthew Dennis, Alexandra Dolzhenko, Jack Drapkin, Nicholas Fiore, Kemberly Gil, Jeremy Gwiozdowski, Jonathan Harned, Meghan Jefferson, Anthony Lombardi, Tara Madsen, Lily McCausland, Ashley McEneaney, Luis Ocasio, III, Lottie Oestrich, Megan Owens, Shivani Patel, Mara Resnick, Haley Ripa, Alexander Rokicki, Joanna Sikorska, Dustin Thomas, Heather Trotta, Katrina Wegner and Katrina Zicot.

Congratulations to all inductees and current National Honor Society members on your outstanding achievement!

aBoVe. CloCKwiSe: new York State assemblywoman aileen Gunther addresses nhS officers Jack Drapkin, John Camera, lily McCausland and alexander rokicki (not pictured); lily McCausland lights the candles that represent scholarship, leadership, service and character; new nhS members (l to r): Patrick Miraglia, Billy Smith and Courtney wissman.

Many thanks to the following students (from leFt to riGht): Thomas Boyle, Jacob lilley, Max heimowitz, Bailey Mitchell, Jesse Conklin, Chelsea wayman, Gerardo Barrera Giron, Frank Smith, James Schultz and Chris Bair. Kneeling: Matt Dennis (l), wolf wolbeck (r). an extra big thank you to teacher wells Shope, without whom this wall wouldn’t have been possible.

One Vision l One Goal l One Monticello 3

Samantha Anderson Special Education, Monticello High School

Ms. Anderson teaches inclusion and special class living environment in the high school, primarily to 9th graders. She recently moved to Wurtsboro. Prior to coming to Monticello, Ms. Anderson did a leave replacement in Middletown and worked as a teaching assistant at Anderson Center for Autism in Hyde Park. She attended SUNY Oswego for her undergraduate degree in biology and adolescent education and SUNY New Paltz for her masters in special education.

John BernsteinMusic, Monticello High School

As a lifelong native to Sullivan County, Mr. Bernstein is happy to be back in the area. He recently completed his undergraduate work at The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, where he worked as a teaching assistant in the music education department. Outside of school and music, Mr. Bernstein enjoys anything that gets him into the great outdoors, particularly skiing and hiking.

Stephanie Castano-HernandezForeign Language, Monticello High School

Ms. Castano-Hernandez was born and raised in Middletown. Her parents were immigrants from Colombia and she was raised in a Spanish-speaking household. She did not learn English until kindergarten. Ms. Castano-Hernandez says her goal is to make learning and acquiring a foreign language as interesting as possible by creating interactive and engaging lesson plans. She enjoys playing volleyball and basketball, as well as hiking with her family.

Larissa Cohen Chemistry, Monticello High School

Ms. Cohen is a native of Sullivan County. She performed her undergraduate work at Drew University and her graduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis. Ms. Cohen is NYS Certified and received

her Masters in Education in secondary science, specifically Chemistry, at Marist College. When not working, she enjoys classical ballroom dancing, Latin dancing, zumba, travelling, and just spending time with her family.

Michael Fratto Health, RJK Middle School

Mr. Fratto has worked as a physical education/aquatics instructor for the Kingston City School District and has served as a substitute teacher for the Minisink Valley CSD. He enjoys coaching soccer and lacrosse. Mr. Fratto’s favorite pasttime is relaxing with his wife and new infant son.

Rebecca Perlman Elementary Music, district-wide Instrumental Lessons, Monticello High School

Ms. Perlman attended SUNY Fredonia where she received her Bachelors of Music in Music Education. She has played violin with the Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra, the SUNY Orange Community Orchestra, the Cornwall String Ensemble, and many other smaller ensembles around the Hudson Valley. In her downtime, Ms. Perlman likes to hike, take photographs, learn how to play new instruments, and travel.

Brenda Rivera Special Education, RJK Middle School

Ms. Rivera is a native of Rockland County and is married with two sons.

She is enjoying her position as a special education teacher at the middle school. She received her teaching degree from Manhattanville College and did her student teaching at Minisink Valley CSD. Ms. Rivera served as a substitute teacher for more than three years.

Rebekah Stoll Home and Careers, Monticello High School

Prior to this position at MHS, Ms. Stoll had been teaching Family and Consumer Science at the middle

school level for six years. She lives on a small farm in Wallkill, with her new husband, her two dogs (Alfie and Addy) and eight chickens.

Laurie Walker Library Media Specialist, Emma C. Chase Elementary School

Ms. Walker is happy to be working for Monticello Central Schools once again, this time as Librarian at Emma C. Chase Elementary School. She served as a Librarian for several years at Delhi Central Schools and public library. She has two sons, Ian and Jesse.

Sandra Weidner Business, Monticello High School

Before becoming a high school teacher, Ms. Weidner worked in the finance industry in equity analysis. She has been teaching for 16 years, both at the high school and community college level. She received her MS degree in Secondary and Adult Education from Lehman College and her BBA from Pace University. Ms. Weidner is active in several committees, including AAUW (American Association of University Women). She has one daughter who is attending Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina. She is an avid reader and belongs to a neighborhood book club. She loves to travel and spend time with her family.

Left to right: John Bernstein, rebecca Perlman, Michael Fratto, rebekah Stoll, Samantha anderson, Brenda rivera, Stephanie Castano-hernandez, Sandra weidner and John Fitzsimmons. (Missing: larissa Cohen; laurie walker)

Monticello Central school District welcomes new teachersPlease join us in welcoming the newest additions to the MCSD Family!

Central School District w i n t e r 2 0 1 34

RJK Middle School Media Club Visits Monticello Motor Club

Ten students from RJK Middle School’s Media Club were revved up to learn when they visited the Monticello Motor Club, the premier private racetrack, on September 18th. Slated as a day for the media to view and drive the newest 2014 automobile models, students were given the unique opportunity to speak with members of the media and others in the communications field including videographers, writers, camera people, web site designers and more. Students learned firsthand about the myriad of professions available in the communications field.

Media Club Faculty Advisor Mr. Silverman investigated bringing students to the event when Superintendent Teplesky proposed the idea. Mr. Silverman has been teaching science for 28 years and is a Monticello graduate. He founded the media club three years ago to give students the chance to produce the morning video announcements nearly every school day, as well as create videos and presentations to air before the announcements.

During their day at the track, students took on the role of reporter as they conducted interviews, took notes and shot video interviews.

Faculty Spotlight:

ChristopherPalmer

assistant PrincipalMonticello High school

Mr. Palmer joins the district with more than 24 years experience in education. Most recently he worked at the Whitehall Central School District where he oversaw the K-12 music program (primarily vocal music), ran the drama club and produced 12 musicals. Prior to this position, he was a music teacher at Sullivan County BOCES for five years.

He was born in Orange County and grew up in Lake George. Mr. Palmer attended Hartwick College for his undergraduate degree, College of Saint Rose for his graduate degree, and earned his Administrative Certificate from SUNY Plattsburgh (SUNY Adirondack campus).

Mr. Palmer says his goals are to get to know the faculty, staff and students of Monticello and discover the district’s culture as a learning community. Outside of school, he is an avid car fanatic and enjoys arts of all sorts. One of his favorite pastimes is oil painting.

Welcome Mr. Palmer!

After the visit, the students wrote and produced a presentation which was aired to the school prior to morning announcements. Students also critiqued each other’s interview skills and discussed how they could make improvements in the future.

In addition to the insights provided by the communications professionals, students had the added bonus of examining the newest car models and learning the complexities of sales and promotions related to the cars.

“The experience was an amazing learning opportunity on many levels,” commented Mr. Silverman. “Students got a true sense of the wide variety of careers associated with the automobile industry. Many of the professionals stressed the importance of a college education, strong writing skills and well developed communication skills. These are the real life lessons our students learn outside of the classroom that help mold who they will become in the future,” added Silverman.

Thanks to the Monticello Motor Club and Vice President of Marketing Matt Gottlieb for making this day possible!

One Vision l One Goal l One Monticello 5

Transportation Steers in Right DirectionWalking into Monticello’s

transportation department, you quickly realize that this is not a typical bus garage. Plants abound around rooms painted in bright blues and purples. Inspirational sayings are displayed throughout the area, with one key word prominently featured: TEAMWORK.

Interim Director Kathleen Cummings is the first one to say that managing the transportation needs of more than 3,600 students with a large fleet of vehicles is a group effort.

“You have to look behind the scenes to see where the strength of our department lies,” said Cummings. “We have the best mechanics in Sullivan County; dedicated drivers who put the safety of our students first; and basically a great group of people with a can-do attitude. This group of professionals dedicate tireless hours and ingenuity to ensure our students’ safe travels,” she added.

Ninety-six employees consisting of bus drivers, bus attendants and office staff rely upon open communication, quick thinking and flexibility to serve the needs of the MCSD community. Cummings summed it up best:

“Our primary goal is to safely transport students to and from school. We do whatever it takes to make that happen.”

Hall of Distinction Inductee Sonia Pressman Fuentes donated three copies of her book, “Eat First - You Don’t Know What They’ll Give You: The Adventures of an Immigrant Family and Their Feminist Daughter,” to the Monticello High School library, RJK Middle School library, and the E.B. Crawford Public Library.

In addition, Ms. Fuentes will be donating $1,000 to form two $500 scholarships to benefit MHS students (pending board approval).

“It was such a pleasure to come back to Monticello and Sullivan County,” said Fuentes, who was Valedictorian of her class in 1946. “I am so honored to be remembered by my alma mater and I am very happy to donate the books and the scholarships.”

Superintendent Daniel a. teplesky (l) presents K.l.r. Middle School librarian Peter richter with Sonia Pressman Fuentes’ book “Eat First - You Don’t Know What They’ll Give You: The Adventures of an Immigrant Family and Their Feminist Daughter”.

Hall of Distinction Inductee Sonia Pressman Fuentes

donates copies of her book, scholarship to MCSD Schools

fuel Up to Play 60 program kicks off at Chase

ethelbert B. Crawford library Director Mary Paige lang-Clouse displays Fuentes’ book.

Members of the MCSD transportation Department with interim Director Kathleen Cummings (second from riGht)

A new initiative at the Emma C. Chase Elementary School has kids “fueling up to Play 60” every day! The program, coordinated by Chase P.E. teacher Tamara Coney in collaboration with the MCSD athletic department, dining services and the EPIC Program.

When students sign up at www.fueluptoplay60.com, they can win cool prizes, like an NFL player visit or Super Bowl tickets and more for choosing good-for-you foods and getting active for at least 60 minutes every day.

We want kids to make a difference not only in their lives, but also their community. Sign up today!

ABOVE: The MCSD Fuel Up to Play 60 team includes Athletic Director Doug Murphy, Chase Principal Bill Frandino, the famous Monti Panther, P.E. Teacher Tamara Coney, EPIC Coordinator Jane Sorensen and Dining Services Director Andrew Yeomans.

RIGHT: EPIC Coordinator Jane Sorensen and Chef Andy prepare a healthy snack. BELOW: The Monticello Panther gets Chase students pumped up!

Central School District w i n t e r 2 0 1 36

RJK Middle School Edible Garden Project

Developed last year by ELA/SS Middle School teacher Cherise Barasch, the Edible Garden Project helps students identify the source of food and teaches them how to grow their own. The garden is located on a 35 x 38 foot plot of land behind the middle school.

When the garden was started, students prepared the soil, dug holes, planted seeds, and cared for the plants as they grew. The garden has recently been “put to bed” for the winter.

During the summer/fall seasons, the garden produced more than 100 pounds of tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, squash, lettuce, kale, berries, and carrots. The harvest was donated to the district’s summer feeding program (a collaboration of the school district, Town of Thompson and the YMCA to provide nutritional breakfast and lunches to community children).

“My favorite part of this club is seeing the students committed to the process from start to finish,” said Ms. Barasch. “They dig holes, plant seeds and care for the plants. When the harvest is plentiful like it was this year, the students are thrilled! They see for themselves that hard work pays off,” she added. The garden is maintained by The Edible Garden Project Club which meets bi-weekly after school. The voluntary club is open to all RJK Middle School students.

Cooke School “Little Sprouts” Garden“Get your hands

dirty” is more than just a phrase to students at the George L. Cooke Elementary School. It is part of their learning experience. Lessons are happening outside of the classroom as students have been active participants in the planning, implementation and care of the “Little Sprouts” edible garden located in the school’s courtyard.

Jane Sorensen, program coordinator for EPIC (Every Person Influences Children), has worked hand-in-hand with Cooke administrators, teachers and students, as well as community volunteers, in taking the garden from concept to execution. Conceptual planning for the garden began in 2011 when Jane was serving as STEM (Science/Technology/Engineering/Math) coordinator for the Cooke school.

“Over the years the garden has evolved from a simple science exercise to a lesson in teamwork, nutrition, visual arts, and more. These students helped put layout designs to paper; grew plants in their classrooms; dug holes; created stepping stones; cared for the plants; and saw their hard work pay off in a beautiful harvest,” said Sorensen. “It doesn’t get any better than the moment when their eyes grow wide and they actually see the fruits (or vegetables) of their labor,” she said.

Representatives from Sullivan Renaissance assisted the school in the layout of plants, what plants should be included, planting and care. Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program based in Sullivan County.

As plans for the garden progressed, Sorensen sought out experts in horticulture and related fields to share

their expertise with students. Master gardeners from the Cornell Cooperative, planners, garden experts, representatives from Sullivan Renaissance and recycling centers, and other experts gave the students tips on how best to manage and maintain the garden. Students also learned about composting and the important role it plays in keeping a garden healthy.

Most recently the garden was transformed from primarily a flower garden into 12 vegetable beds. The development of the vegetable garden aligns with the Garden to Table concept adopted by the District’s Health & Wellness Committee. The concept of serving fresh, homegrown produce in the school cafeterias is one endorsed by MCSD Dining Services Director Andrew Yeomans. Carrots, green beans, pumpkins and other vegetables were grown in the garden and offered to students for tasting in the school cafeteria. Roasted pumpkin seeds were among the favorites!

“The key to this project’s success is teamwork,” said Sorensen. “We are not only growing plants and vegetables; we are cultivating a sense of community,” she added.

5th grade students Kayla Fernandez, nikko Suarez, Michael Brown and nikko Suarez help art teacher amy Garrett, ePiC coordinator Jane Sorensen, and Chef andrew Yeomans, with a healthy vegetable sampling from the Cooke Garden.

How does your garden grow? Ours grow with help from our students!

One Vision l One Goal l One Monticello 7

Monticello High School science teacher Jeanine Nielsen is ahead of the curve when it comes to her teaching techniques in the classroom. This is one reason why Ms. Nielsen was named one of three finalists for the prestigious 2014 New York State Teacher of the Year award. Highly-regarded teachers from around the state were considered for this prominent award honoring hard-working educators.

Nominees were required to write eight separate essays on various topics related to education as part of the rigorous application process. One of Ms. Nielsen’s essays outlined her personal philosophy about teaching, in which she wrote, “Student-teacher relationships require work, dedication and open communication to build trust. In a rapidly changing world our students have to deal with things they hadn’t in the past. Through open communication they can learn they don’t always have to have all the answers and it’s okay to fail; that showing emotion is healthy, goal setting is essential, and self-reflection is paramount to moving forward in a positive direction.”

The 2013-14 school year marks Ms. Nielsen’s 12th year teaching science in Monticello. As an alumni of Monticello Central School District, Ms. Nielsen has a special connection to the district, its students and her hometown.

“I think what I love most about being a teacher is staying in touch with my students long after they’ve graduated. I’ve attended college graduations and I have met some of my students’ children. It is like having an extended family,” Nielsen said.

It seems her students agree. “Not only is Ms. Nielsen a great teacher in the classroom, but as an athlete, it is so nice to have a second parent there cheering me on when my parents are working,” said Monticello High School student Laura Doherty.

Ms. Nielsen has spearheaded the flipped classroom approach to learning and teaching in the school district. In the flipped model, students are introduced to new topics via an online video lesson created by their teacher

which they access from home through Monticello’s Schoology account. This creative approach to education has proven successful in Ms. Nielsen’s classes and has received positive reviews from her students.

New York State’s Teacher of the Year program recognizes and celebrates an exceptionally skilled and passionate educator as an ambassador for NYS teachers and the NYS nominee for the National Teacher of the Year. This program, now in its 44rd year, is affiliated with the National Teacher of the Year program administered through the Council of Chief State School Officers and sponsored by leading education associations. Congratulations to our own Ms. Nielsen!

MHS Science Teacher Jeanine Nielsen nominated for NYS Teacher of the Year

Ms. Nielsen works with students in her science class. The flipped classroom technique and her commitment to her students’ success led to her nomination as NYS Teacher of the Year.

“i think what i love most about being a teacher is staying in touch with my students long after they’ve graduated.” – Jeanine nielsen

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1301Newburgh, NY

Postal CustomerECRWSS

Produced in cooperation with the Capital Region BOCES Communications Service.

winter 2013More news, stories and photos at www.MonticelloSchools.net

school administration

8

Board of Education PresidentSusan PurcellVice PresidentStacey SharoffBoard MembersRobert Bellamy Cathleen DohertyJennifer KellyJune Havas-Lombardi Bob Kunis Ellen NesinAlyce Van EttenStudent RepresentativeLily McCausland

District ClerkMary Ryan Buchholz

District AdministrationSuperintendent of SchoolsDaniel A. TepleskyAssistant Superintendent for Curriculum and InstructionTammy MangusSchool Business AdministratorDenise CedeiraCommunications and PublicationsAllison RuefCarole Spendley

Central SChool DiStriCt237 Forestburgh Road Monticello, NY 12701

Now is the time for actionfair funding for our schools

from the desk of Daniel A. Teplesky, Superintendent of Schools

The fiscal crisis that New York State schools have been experiencing is one of the biggest issues facing our districts today. Without fair and equitable funding, we are challenged each year to provide the highest quality education for our students at state funding levels equivalent to those of 2008. On top of inadequate funding, schools are subject to costly unfunded mandates and the state’s tax levy limit.

Many schools struggle to provide the basics while others eliminate important programs including art, music, extracurricular programs and athletics. Districts, including Monticello, have been forced to close well-loved and high functioning schools and over the last two years eliminated 60 positions. This is simply not acceptable.

New York State actually invests a great deal of money in education. However, the poorest children don’t always get their fair share. In a time when even greater standards are expected of all children, failing to support those who need help the most is not acceptable.

District leaders throughout our area have been working with staff and community members to find creative ways to weather the economic storm without sacrificing the integrity of their

educational programs. Yet without meaningful and timely relief from our government leaders, students throughout the state and here in Monticello risk losing programs that they have come to know, love and value. The time is now for our state leaders to rethink and reformulate how we use and distribute education funding. Now is the time for action.

Elected officials need to hear from you, their constituents. They need to hear from the people who are most directly impacted by their decisions (or indecisions) year after year – the students, parents, employees, residents, community groups and business owners of New York State.

What can you do?

Become a voice and advocate for education. There are many ways you can be involved, at any level you choose. The only prerequisite necessary is the desire to fight for our students and our schools.

Our district website contains a section called “ADVOCACY” where tools and information are available to learn about becoming an advocate for education. We hope you will help our district speak up for the funding we deserve, to give your child the education they deserve.

elected officials who represent the Monticello Central School District

New York State Legislators: assemblywoman aileen M. Gunther 100th Assembly DistrictPhone: (845) [email protected]

senator John J. bonacic42nd Senate District Phone: (845) [email protected]

nYs board of Regents - Judicial District III Regent James O. Jackson, Ph.D.Phone: (909) 233-8881 [email protected]

Governor andrew M. CuomoAlbany, NY 12224Phone: (518) 474-8390

United States Legislators:U.s. Representative Chrisopher Gibson19th Congressional DistrictPhone: (845) 747-9274

U.s. senator Kirsten GillibrandPhone: (518) [email protected]

U.s. senator Charles e. schumerPhone: (518) 431-4070

Useful Resources: Education Speaks www.edspeaks.org; Alliance for Quality Education: www.aqeny.org