BYRON-BERGEN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT     • SUMMER 2020 FOCAL POINT

Congratulations To The Class of 2020 Congratulations to this year’s Class of 2020 top-academically ranked students: Valedictorian Siomara Caballero,

Salutatorian Justine Bloom, Caitlin Ashton, Emily Chaback, John Mercovich, Cambria Kinkelaar, Annabella Vurraro, Sara Fraser, Jillian Menzie, Chloe Shuskey, Alexander Dean, and Nathan Zwerka.

Siomara Caballero

Valedictorian

Siomara Caballero is treasurer of the National Honor Society, Jr. Teller for the school’s branch of the Tonawanda Valley Federal Credit Union, and
a member of Spanish Club. She is also a member of PageTurners,
which has advanced to the regional championship for the past two years, winning it in 2019. She is a member of Math League; where she was awarded
Highest Scoring Freshman, has been

Hispanic Scholar, and a QuestBridge Scholar. She is a member of the Hundred Club for achieving perfect scores in the Living Environments and Global Studies Regents exams. She has also been awarded the University of Rochester Frederick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony Award, the Dartmouth Alumni Book Club Award, the Rensselaer Medalist Award, a Hispanic Endowment Fund Scholarship, and an Academic Letter and Pin. Siomara is the daughter of Michelle and Miguel Caballero and plans to attend Harvard
College to concentrate in Physics.

a regional representative for the past four years and a state representative for the past three years, and the team as a whole placed first in the league twice in the last four years. Siomara is co-captain of the Varsity Cross Country team for which she has earned two sectional patches, is a four-time Genesee Region All-Star, All Greater Rochester Honorable Mention, and Most Valuable Runner for her team. She has also played on the Varsity Basketball team for two years. She rounds out her year running for the Varsity Track team; where she is a three-time Genesee Region All-Star and
All Greater Rochester Honorable Mention, she has been named her team’s Most Improved, Most Respected, and Most Valuable track athlete throughout her career. In 2015, Siomara competed in the North American Indigenous Games, medaling in four running events. Siomara has volunteered for the Gilliam Grant’s Track Camp and Santa’s Workshop for the last three years. She attends Ss. Columba-Brigid Church in Buffalo, where she participates as a lector and altar server; she received the Bishop’s Altar Server of the Year Award in 2020. Siomara is on Genesee Community College’s Provost’s List, and has graduated with her Associates in Science through the college's ACE Program. Siomara has been recognized as a National Merit
Scholarship Commended Student, a College Board National

Justine Bloom is the treasurer for Student Council, Yearbook Committee, and Drama Club, as well as the Vice President of Alliance for Equality. She participates on BB’s Varsity Volleyball program, envirothon team, and Roc2Change group. Justine has been a part of the Singing Silhouettes since 2017, and in her senior year has sung
Justine Bloom	with both the Area All State women’s Salutatorian	choir and Conference All State mixed
choir. She has also sung in the RPO Holiday Pops concert series since 2018 and has participated in the school musical since 2017, starring in lead roles for the past two productions. Justine is a participant in her church's choir. She is the recipient of the Language Other Than English Department Award (2017), Student of The Quarter Award (4th Quarter, Sophomore Year, 2018), and Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology (2019). Justine is planning on attending college at SUNY Fredonia, where she has been admitted into the honors program to major in
Environmental Science.

Top 10 Class of 2020

Caitlin Ashton is a member of the Senior High Art Club, participates in tennis, and is a member of a youth bowling league. Participated in varsity
swimming her freshman year. She is a volunteer at GoArt, an organization dedicated to developing the cultural life in Genesee and Orleans Counties by facilitating the creation, presentation and experience
of the arts. Art is very important to Caitlin and she would love to continue expanding on her creative abilities. Caitlin has received an Academic Varsity letter and pin, and received the Computing Medal Scholarship, as well as the Elmira College Keys award. Caitlin is the daughter of Christine and Shane Ashton and is planning on attending The College at Brockport to major in Computer Science.

John Mercovich is a member of the senior high Math League Team and participates in Varsity Tennis where he aided in securing two league titles. Throughout high school, John challenged himself with Advanced Placement classes, achieving a score of 5 on the 2019 AP World History exam. John achieved 3rd in the senior class rankings of 2020
and has plans to attend RIT in the fall semester. I’d like to thank my teachers, family, Laffy Taffy, and all my friends for motivating me to be my best throughout high school.

Emily Chaback is a member of National Honor Society, Math League, and the Student Council where she serves as the Public Relations Advisor. She participates in the Singing Silhouettes, and has been a part of the Byron-Bergen choir program since 4th grade. Emily is a part of the Seneca Park Zoo education team, and has spent the past year
volunteering at the zoo to teach guests about how they can protect the environment and help with conservation efforts. Emily is proud to say that she has taken seven AP courses during her time at Byron-Bergen. She would like to thank her family and her friends for helping her and supporting her with all of her academic pursuits. Emily is planning on attending the University of Hartford to double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice, with a concentration in Pre-Law.

Cambria Kinkelaar is a member of Math League, PageTurners, and National Honor Society. She has been a member of the Tennis team since 7th grade. Cambria has been part of the band since 7th grade, playing the Alto Saxophone and joined the Singing Silhouettes this year. She has taken part in the All County Band every year of high school and has been
first chair for the past two years. This year, Cambria received the RIT Performing Arts Scholarship and plans to continue her love for music in college. Next year, Cambria plans on attending the Rochester Institute of Technology to study Engineering Exploration. She would like to thank her family, friends, and Laffy Taffy for their support
throughout high school.

Annabella (Abby) Vurraro is a member of the Varsity Volleyball team, where she has been elected captain for two years and has won awards such as: Most Valuable Player, Most Improved Player, Genesee League All-Star, Section V All-Star, Greater Rochester Player of the Week, and has been selected for the Third Team All-State. She is also a part of the Varsity
Softball team where she has been elected captain for one year and has received Most Respected Player. Abby also participates in National Honor Society and Varsity Club. Abby has been a part of band for eight years, playing the trombone. Abby has been on the High Honor Roll for her entire high school career and is a part of the Hundred Club for receiving a grade of 100% on her English 11 Regents. She has
also received her Academic Letter and pin. Abby has also received the Principal’s Award, the Physical Education Department Award, and the George Eastman Young Leaders Award.

Sara Fraser is a member of National Honor Society, PageTurners, the TVFCU Junior Banking Program, and is the Vice President and Treasurer of Steppin’ Up Club. She participates in Varsity Volleyball and Tennis as well as the musical theater program.
Sara has also been a member of the band for the past 9 years where she plays trumpet and french
horn. Outside of school she plays the violin as well. Sara is on the Rochester Teen Book Festival Advisory Board where she has volunteered to help plan and execute the 2020 festival. Sara is a receiver of the University of Rochester Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award as well as the Saint Michael’s Book Award for Academic Achievement & Social Science. Sara is the daughter of Mary and Edward Fraser and plans to attend SUNY Binghamton.

Jillian Menzie is a member of Varsity Club, Spanish club, Alliance for Equality, Mock Trial, and is the President of National Honor Society and Executive Student Council. She has participated in soccer, basketball, and softball, as well as being the school mascot. She is in a local bowling league and holds the highest youth female average in the Genesee
Region. Jillian has been a percussionist in band, and a member of choir for the last 9 years. Outside of school, Jillian is an Explorer for the Bergen Fire Department, a Girl Scout, and participates in Young Life. Jillian is very community oriented, and has logged approximately 250 hours of community service during her high school career. She has received the Genesee County Youth Recognition Award, and
the Spotlight on Youth Award for participating in and organizing a fundraiser through which she has raised $20,000 for the ARC. Jillian has received an Academic Varsity letter. She has been a recipient of the Principal’s Award, Health Faculty Department Award, Spanish Faculty Department Award, and the RIT Innovation and Creativity Award. She has been on the High Honor Roll and Effort Roll for the entirety of her high school education. Jillian is the youngest of six children to Tammy and Gerald Menzie. She plans to attend SUNY Brockport for Nursing and ROTC, join the ARMY National Guard, and
be the best soccer mom ever.

2 | FOCAL POINT

Top 10 Class of 2020

Chloe Shuskey is a member of National Honor Society, Varsity Club and is a scholar tri-athlete. She participated in soccer, basketball, and softball as well as travel soccer and AAU basketball. Chloe has been a member of the Singing Silhouettes, an elite singing group, for three years and has also
been a cast member of the musical for several years. Chloe has been awarded the Foundation Scholarship at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she will major in Music and Theatre.

Alexander Dean has participated in football, wrestling, and baseball throughout high school, being on Varsity for three years in each sport. Alex was pulled up to varsity for the 2017 sectional run that ended with the first Sectional championship for football in school history; followed by being a starter on the team the next two seasons. This season in
wrestling, Alex was able to earn a spot on the GR League All-Star team, other awards include Most Respected Wrestler in 2019 and 2020, and placing top six in sectionals, after a season ending injury in the semi-finals of the tournament. In 2019, Alex was also given the Tri-Athlete Award. Outside of athletics, Alex is also a member of National Honor Society, works at ANG Markets as a stock clerk, and is part of the Bergen Fire Department. Last year Alex received the George H. Ball Community Achievement Award at Academic Recognition Night, along with his Academic Varsity letter. Alex is the son of Garrett and Deanna Dean and plans to attend Mansfield University with a major in Business Management, and play on the
football team.

Nathan Zwerka has been a part of the National Honor Society, Strategic Games Club, Math League, Mock Trial, and Student Council where he has served as Vice-President/President over the years. Throughout his experience at Byron-Bergen he participated in soccer, tennis, and Isshinryu Karate
where he was eventually promoted to “shodan” (first degree black belt). He has also received scholar cards for his academic success as well as an Academic Varsity letter and pins. He was awarded, the RIT Innovative and Creativity Scholarship Award his junior year. Nathan has been volunteering at his church “The Father’s House” for 11 years and takes passion in this community. This upcoming fall semester Nathan plans to attend Monroe Community College to major in Sports Management and also striving to become an USSF
Soccer Referee of the professional level.

SUMMER 2020 | 3

CongratulationsTo The Class of 2020

Julianna Amesbury SUNY Genesee Community
College Psychology

Caitlin Ashton SUNY Brockport
Computer Science and Math

Justine Bloom SUNY Fredonia
Environmental Science

Ariana Bobzien SUNY Niagara County Community College Surgical Technician

Lucila Bobzien SUNY Niagara County Community College
Chemical Dependency Counseling

Megan Bogue-Lamarca SUNY Genesee Community College
Business Administration and Psychology

Ryan Bridge

SUNY Genesee Community College Criminal Justice

Shelby Bridge SUNY Genesee Community
College General Studies

Sydney Brown

New York Academy of Fire Science

Alexander Brumsted Carpenters Union

Arthur Burke Undeclared

Dominick Butz Work

Siomara Caballero Harvard College Physics and Math

Alexis Calarco Work

Jacob Capostagno Work

Hannah Catalino Houghton College
Childhood Inclusive Education

Emily Chaback University of Hartford Psychology and Criminal Justice

Alexander Dean Mansfield University Business Management

Shaina DeJesus Music and Acting

Jacey Donahue SUNY Brockport
Psychology and Social Work

Elizabeth Donnelly SUNY Alfred State Veterinary Technology

Ashley Drury

SUNY Genesee Community College
Veterinary Technology

Madison Farnsworth SUNY Monroe Community College Psychology

Kyle Foeller

SUNY Genesee Community College
Business Administration

Sara Fraser SUNY Binghamton Undeclared

Kelsey Fuller Canisius College Business Marketing

Emily Gonyea Liberty University Undeclared

Chad Green Work

Amaya Gunther SUNY Brockport
Healthcare Administration and Business

Nicholas Hackman SUNY Genesee Community
College Computer Programming

Zachary Hannan SUNY Brockport Criminal Justice

Evan Harter

WNY Tech Academy, SUNY Genesee Community College Accounting

Alexander Heatherman United States Marine Corps

Coltin Henry University at Buffalo Medical Technology

Isaiah Herrmann Undeclared

Rose Hubbard SUNY Finger Lakes Community College Fine Arts

Rick Hubbard, Jr. Army National Guard

Mikaela Hubler SUNY Brockport Nursing

Alec Johnson Work

Emily Kaczmarek Work Healthcare

Cambria Kinkelaar Rochester Institute of Technology Engineering

Chad Kupfer Four-Year College Criminal Justice

Travis Lambert

St. John Fisher College, Army National Guard Criminal Justice

Melissa MacCowan SUNY Plattsburgh Psychology

Trevor Mathisen

Jillian Menzie SUNY Brockport, Army National Guard Nursing

John Mercovich Rochester Institute of Technology
Mechanical Engineering

Cynthia Morse SUNY Genesee Community
College Nursing

Enson Nieves SUNY Genesee Community
College General Studies

Michael Olander Work

Courtney Pakusch SUNY Genesee Community
College Theatre Arts

Nina Pernesky-Crosby Animation

Samuel Pringle SUNY Buffalo State Undeclared

Cynthia Ramos Work

Jose Ramos-Francisco Work

Ethan Ray

United States Marine Corps

Clayton Sadler Army National Guard Military Police

4 | FOCAL POINT

and counting!
congratulate families on how they were
adults missed their calling to become a
what you’ve missed but what you have.
There is the determination and creative
had home visits from Mr. Edwards and Mr.
McGee and the great yard signs honoring
CongratulationsTo The Class of 2020

Wyatt Sando United States Air Force
Security Forces

Auburn Schwartzmeyer University at Buffalo Civil Engineering

Hannah Seppe Work

Caleb Sharpe Roberts Wesleyan College
Physical Education

Chloe Shuskey Eckerd College Music

Kevin Smith SUNY Finger Lakes Community College
Business Administration

Peter Smith Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
English Adolescent Education

Brandon Stefanski SUNY Genesee Community
College General Studies

Isabelle Stevens SUNY Genesee Community
College Education

Cameron Sweet SUNY Genesee Community
College General Studies

Garrett Swinter SUNY Monroe Community
College Computer Science

Miriam Tardy SUNY Geneseo
Childhood Inclusive Education

Jose Tirado-Cardona Work

Justice Towne

New Mexico State University Alamogordo Engineering

Hannah VanSkiver St. Michael's College Political Science

Annabella Vurraro Penn State Kinesiology

Bryce Walker Daemen College Animation

Brett Whalin Work

Isabella Wilder SUNY Fredonia
Political Science, Social Studies Adolescence Education

Benjamin Wilkins SUNY Genesee Community
College General Studies

Grant Williams SUNY Brockport Undeclared

Luke Williams SUNY Monroe Community
College Precision Machining

Bryce Yockel Baldwin Wallace University
Undeclared

Braeden Zimmerman SUNY Morrisville
Auto Body Technology

Nathan Zwerka SUNY Monroe Community
College Sports Management

NEWS from the Board
The Board of Education hopes that this	For our seniors graduating, CONGRATS!!!	of 2020. A thought for your 20 year reunion

newsletter finds you and your family well during these very unsettling times. It has been an unpredictable, unbelievable, and
uncharted time for us socially, emotionally,

We know that it has been a dificult and disappointing end to all these years of learning. We understand that you are
missing the “traditional” send off and

(to play on the 20 in 2020) is to gather and celebrate with your prom theme, to show that the Corona virus may have delayed you
but couldn’t stop you!

and educationally.	celebrations of a senior year. However At the writing of this article we don’t know	we would encourage you not to dwell on
the outcome of our school budget, but want

back to be counted. We have seen voter
memories more mportant, celebrations
to thank everyone who has sent their ballots ways that you did not let Covid-19 take participation grow 3 fold! Over 1,100 ballots everything. Your ifriendships are stronger,
The Board would like to thank and
more meaningful and now have started new traditions. You are the first class since 2005 to return to graduating from the
parade to receive your cap and gown. You
able to become virtual educators and your	BB campus, and the first outdoor senior efforts to help further your child’s learning.
We know that it was stressful, dificult, and

that everyone did their best. Perhaps some your accomplishments for everyone to see

and know the pride of you famlies There
teacher and others are extremely happy that are so many positive firstsrfromi the. Class

So as you go out into the world, bee your best self, do great things, remember your days at B-B fondly, and know that the Board supports and honors the Class of 2020.

Thank you to our community for the continued support for our schools and our students. Please stay safe and we hope for better days ahead.

Debi List

Debra List, President

Board of Education

they did not pursue teaching as a career!
SUMMER 2020 | 5

seasons. Missed dances. Missed
art shows. I am going to ask you to
look harder. Look at what you have
accomplished.
expected of you. You were suddenly
And it was hard. All of those things
were very hard. Now, I want to tell
you why all of those things are so
You are adults now, and in your adult
can’t do.
So get out there, and do it.
You are the Class
There is nothing
“

Superintendent’s Message

I would like to speak to our graduates.	and recreating community. Your world I know that you are not the same	was flipped upside down without students who walked the halls of the	warning and you adapted.
High School mere months ago. You’ve changed. In the spring of your senior year, you were handed an adult burden,
and found yourselves equal to it.	important. It is easy to look at this year as a series
of missed opportunities. Missed sports	lives things will not always work out. Your job may suddenly change. You may find yourself far from your social support group. This is not the last time your world will flip upside down.
School, as you have always known	But, you have already proven that you it, disappeared overnight and yet you	have the determination, flexibility, and found the flexibility and dedication	creativity to reinvent your world and to complete your school work with a	survive. And that is extraordinary.
of 2020. And you	level of independence never before	You are the Class of 2020. And you are survivors.	separated from your peers and social	are survivors. There is nothing you
supports and yet you found yourselves capable of reinventing relationships
you can’t do.

High School DRUMLINE

The B-B campus reverberated with rhythm as Mr. Blieler and the high school percussionists commemorated the last day of school with the traditional drumline.

6 | FOCAL POINT

H E L P WANTED

Do you have an interest in

helping Byron-Bergen Central School District in the capacity of a

• Substitute Bus Driver- we will train! • Substitute Cleaner
• Substitute Food Service Worker • Substitute Teacher
• Substitute Teacher Aide

If so, please visit the Employment section of our website at www.bbschools.org (District tab Employment):

• For Substitute Teacher, visit our on-line web recruitment page at https://bbschools.recruitfront.com click the “Register” button at the bottom left, and register to become a new user and create your application for submission.

• For Substitute Bus Driver, Substitute Cleaner, Substitute Food Service Worker, and Substitute Teacher Aide please download and complete the Genesee County Civil Service Application located on the Employment section of our webpage and submit the application with letter of interest (and resume, if available) via email (pgunio@bbschools.org), fax (585-494-2613), or mail/deliver in person to: P. Gunio – District Office, Byron-Bergen CSD, 6917
West Bergen Road, Bergen, NY 14416.

Pesticide Notice
The New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation enacted a program that requires all schools to provide you with information
about pesticide product applications made throughout the school year. Under State law, the school is required to maintain a list of parents, guardians, and staff who wish to receive 48-hour advance written notice prior to a pesticide application.

To register your name with the school to be on a 48-hour notification list, send a request to Byron-Bergen Central School District Ofice, 6917 W Bergen Rd., Bergen, NY 14416.
A written request must be

submitted annually.

ALL KIDS EAT FREE! No paperwork necessary, Must be 18 or under for free meals
Byron-Bergen High School

Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 9th – Aug 13th, 2020 • 11:30-12:30 pm

Students or parents will be able to pick-up breakfast & lunch in one bag. Please call 494-1220 ext 1015 for more info.

Other Sites and times:

Byron Community Park (Fireman’s Park) 6357 NY-262, Byron NY
Monday - Friday 12 pm – 12:30 pm

Bergen Community Center 14 Buffalo St., Bergen NY
Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

SUMMER 2020 | 7

Congratulations Retirees

Denise Baker is retiring from Byron-Bergen Central School District after 33 years. The quote that best describes her years of service is from Winnie the Pooh. “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard,” says Baker. “I was blessed that God placed me with all my little Byron-Bergen ‘honey bees!’”

Baker was hired by former Superintendent Bill Hayes as an elementary Special Education teacher. Retired Principal Thomas Biondolillo assigned her as a Consultant Teacher for English Language Arts and Math to grades three and four. While at Byron-Bergen, she also taught Kindergarten, first and second grades and the Wilson Reading Program for the last ten years.

“I was fortunate to have taught with a plethora of dedicated teachers, worked with an incredible support staff, enriched the lives of numerous wonderful children, appreciated our

“In my time as I was blessed that

God placed me with all my little

Byron-Bergen ‘honey bees!.”

conscientious custodial people, and was grateful for the continual support and opportunities of our administration. I have maintained lifetime friendships with colleagues and parents through the years.”

Baker would like to thank Bill Hayes and Tom Biondollilo for providing the opportunity to teach for the Byron-Bergen School District. “Mr. Hayes and Mr. Biondolillo were strong
administrators. Together they displayed a perfect balance of integrity, passion, commitment, and motivation to their faculty and staff. In addition, I’d like to thank Judy Boyle and Donna Moscicki. They were wonderful communicators, extremely knowledgeable, strong advocates for our Special Education students, and Donna created the inception of our incredible Preschool program.”

In retirement, Baker is looking forward to spending additional time with her grandchildren, enjoying the winter months in Florida with her husband, Scott, playing in her flower gardens, and reading. Her travel plans include visits to Hawaii and the Top Ten Wonders of the West. “Our church group volunteers at House of Mercy and the Ronald McDonald House, so that’s also on the agenda.”

“I hope I’ve instilled a love for reading in all my students, along with perseverance, and grit. I’ve tried to instill confidence by telling them opportunities lie not so much in what we have, as what we do with what we have. If you give one hundred percent,
then you’ve tried your best. But always keep striving!”

John Tomidy is retiring after 39 years of teaching secondary English, 35 of which have been at Byron-Bergen. He said that he’s ready for retirement but it feels
strange for two reasons: 1) the conditions caused by the pandemic pause, and 2) the fact that he’s been going to school (in one way or another) for the last 55 years.

He is grateful to retired Superintendent Bill Hayes and former Principal Dr. Joseph Scanlan for hiring him at Byron-Bergen in 1983, thus commencing a career that he has found “extremely rewarding.”

Mr. Tomidy stated, “I have had the privilege of working with some quality
people in the Byron-Bergen learning

community: students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and Board of Education members.” He added, “I hope that throughout it all, I was able to make my students think and my colleagues laugh.” In retirement, he is
looking forward to reading, traveling with his wife Karen, spending more time with his (growing) family, and being exclusively on “Tomidy Time.”

He used a middle English quote from Geoffrey Chaucer’s Prologue to The Canterbury Tales to sum up his career:

“And gladly wolde he lerne and gladly

teche.”

“I hope that throughout it all, I

was able to make my students

think and my colleagues laugh.”

8 | FOCAL POINT

”
Congratulations Retirees

Donna McJury is ending her 20 year teaching career at Byron-Bergen Central School District. Before coming to Byron-Bergen, she worked as a preschool teacher with 3 and 4 year olds at St. Mary’s School in Batavia. “I started college when three of my four children were in college,” said McJury. “I graduated from SUNY Geneseo in May 2000; by September I began teaching at Byron-Bergen as a Special Education teacher in the High School.” As she is also certified to
teach Social Studies, she has taught Global 9, US History, World War II, and PIG/Economics.

“I am proud of completing my college education and becoming a teacher with the support of my husband, Harold, family, and friends. Once I started, I was not going to give up! Thanks to my great family who have supported me throughout my teaching career. My two daughters, Julie
and Shannon, are teachers at Churchville-Chili High School and we have had many in depth conversations about education. I am sure they will continue.”

McJury enjoyed many aspects of teaching at Byron-Bergen. “I relish the personal connections with students and their families, getting
to know each student’s story, seeing their accomplishments, graduating and starting a new path is something I will cherish. Being advisor
for Color Guard, co-advisor for Mock Trial, and

Student Council are activities where I witnessed great leadership and dedication in our students. I will miss the comradery and friendships made with so many people during my time at B-B. I will miss having lunches with Evelyn Hunt for the last 20 years. And of course, planning Halloween costumes with Evelyn Hunt and Alana Penna.”

Some of McJury’s favorite moments at Byron-Bergen include when the teachers danced to “Happy” at the Pep Assembly, B-B’s Mock Trial Team winning the GLOW region competition with co-advisor Marian Gerhardy in 2014, and B-B’s Colorguard marching with the band swinging their flags proudly.

In retirement, McJury plans to spend time volunteering at Crossroads House and other places. She also plans to travel with her family to Myrtle Beach and a long awaited 50th Anniversary trip. “Our Viking River Cruise to the Rhine was cancelled due to Covid-19. Sewing and gardening will be on my agenda as well as many other activities.”

“Thanks to all who have made my time at Byron-Bergen a great experience. Each student and person I have worked with contributed to the teacher and person I have become. I will miss being a member of the Byron-Bergen High School
Faculty. Now onto another chapter of my life.”

“I relish the personal

connections with

students and

their families,

getting to know

each student’s

story, seeing their

accomplishments,

graduating and

starting a new

path is something I

will cherish.

			
	Elementary PARADE

	

									

SUMMER 2020 | 9

Byron-Bergen High School

Class of 2020 Awards & Scholarships

This list includes special recognition awards presented to Byron-Bergen High School Students at the virtual “Academic & Athletic Awards Night as well as Music Awards originally scheduled to be given during Spring Concerts. (Awards and Scholarships given at graduation are not included here.)

“Academic and Athletic Awards Night”

U of R Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award Hope Hersom

Bergen Historical Society Award Zachary Hannan

Brian R. Ivison Memorial Industrial Arts Award Travis Lambert

Brian R. Ivison Memorial Wrestling Award Alexander Dean

The Byron-Bergen S.T.E.P. Booster Humanitarian Leadership Scholarship Jillian Menzie

Byron-Bergen Sports Booster Scholar Athlete Award Siomara Caballero Annabella Vurraro Nathan Zwerka

The Clarkson University High School Achievement Award Alaura Rehwaldt

The Clarkson University High School Leadership Award Colby Leggo

Comeback Award Madison Farnsworth Emily Gonyea

Community Achievement Award from Keuka College Jonah Clare Eden Goff
Veronica Duell

Dawn Gruendike Memorial Award Jillian Menzie

Duane Streeter Memorial Award Madison Farnsworth

The Elmira College Key Awards Skylar Sharpe

The Emily Reis Memorial Scholarship Siomara Caballero

The Faculty Department Award Caitlin Ashton Brody Baubie Nicholas Baubie Justine Bloom Caleb Carlson Daniels Dawson Sara Goodman Gabrielle Graff Amaya Gunther Mackenzie Hagen Hope Hersom Jackson Lundfelt Martin Mac Connell Jillian Menzie Carter Prinzi Victoria Rogoyski Malachi Smith Lily Stalica Ciara Trigilio Rito Vanegas
Annabella Vurraro Isabella Wilder Rose Wilson

Female Athlete of the Year Kelsey Fuller Miriam Tardy

U of R Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in Humanities and Social Sciences
Kelly Ireland

Gary Liles Memorial Award Trophy Hannah Catalino Travis Lambert

U of R George Eastman Young Leaders Award Nicholas Baubie

Male Athlete of the Year Zachary Hannan Bryce Yockel

The Matthew Kota Memorial Scholarship Travis Lambert

Matthew Kota Memorial Medical Scholarship Jillian Menzie

Paul Smith Memorial Wrestling Award Zachary Hannan

The President’s Award for Educational Excellence Siomara Caballero Chad Kupfer Sara Fraser Amaya Gunther Zachary Hannan Mikaela Hubler
Cambria Kinkelaar Jillian Menzie
Auburn Schwartzmeyer Caleb Sharpe Chloe Shuskey Garrett Swinter Annabella Vurraro Grant Williams
Nathan Zwerka

10 | FOCAL POINT

Byron-Bergen High School

Class of 2020 Awards & Scholarships

This list includes special recognition awards presented to Byron-Bergen High School Students at the virtual “Academic & Athletic Awards Night,” as well as Music Awards originally scheduled to be given during Spring Concerts. (Awards and Scholarships given at graduation are not included here.)

“Academic and Athletic Awards Night”

Principal’s Award Gabrielle Graff Travis Lambert Meghan Muscarella Elizabeth Piper Sarah Sue Streeter Jorie Strzelecki

The Rensselaer Medalist Award Richard Denson

The RIT Computing Award Richard Denson
Sara Goodman

The RIT Innovation & Creativity Award Carli Kirkwood Colby Leggo

Samuel Landis Wiant Golf Award Wyatt Sando

Saint Michael’s Book Award for Academic Achievement & Social Science Joshua Fleming Kelly Ireland

The Stephanie Lynn Tooley Cheerleading Scholarship
Hope Hersom

Superintendent’s Award Jillian Menzie

Triple “C” Award Deacon Smith

Wanda L. MacVean English Recognition Award Amaya Gunther

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award Andrew Parnapy

U of R Xerox Award for Innovation & Information Technology
Andrew Parnapy

Music Awards

The Band Award Sara Fraser Coltin Henry Rose Hubbard
Auburn Schwartzmeyer Garrett Swinter Annabella Vurraro Benjamin Wilkins Braeden Zimmerman

Band & Chorus Achievement Award Hannah Catalino Shaina DeJesus Cambria Kinkelaar Jillian Menzie
Hannah VanSkiver

Byron-Bergen Music Booster Scholarship Justine Bloom Sara Fraser Cambria Kinkelaar Jillian Menzie Isabelle Stevens Hannah VanSkiver Benjamin Wilkins

Byron-Bergen Musical Theater Award Justine Bloom Hannah Catalino Sara Fraser Courtney Pakusch Chloe Shuskey
Isabelle Stevens

Choral Award Justine Bloom Sydney Brown Emily Chaback Jacey Donahue Chloe Shuskey Isabelle Stevens Miriam Tardy Isabella Wilder

Singing Silhouette Leadership Award Justine Bloom Isabelle Stevens

John Philip Sousa Award

Jillian Menzie

Raymond E. Scott Memorial Award Jillian Menzie Miriam Tardy

Donna Terepka Piano Memorial Award Cambria Kinkelaar

Vince Zarcone Award Garrett Swinter Annabella Vurraro

NYSSMA All-State Choral Award
Justine Bloom

- Robert Kaercher

SUMMER 2020 | 11

Jr./Sr. High School HAPPENINGS By: Patrick McGee, Principal

Thank you to all of our students and families for doing the best they can during these unprecedented times. Please know how I appreciate your tremendous support, flexibility,
and understanding. As always our teachers and staff have been doing the best they can to help support you. Thank you for reciprocating this and doing the best you can. This is by no means a perfect situation and I just appreciate everyone making
the best out of the circumstances we were given. It truly is a privilege to work in such a special place.

As we reflect on the end of the year, we will greatly miss celebrating our usual end of the year events such as our concerts, spring athletic Sectional events, our annual Buzzin’ Bistro, the different recognition nights for our student body and families, and all of our other end of the year traditions we have. We cannot wait to come together again and make up for some
of our missed time together.

While all of our students and families have been affected by our school closing in many different ways, I would be remiss if I didn’t highlight the Class of 2020. Through all of
their accomplishments in and out of the classroom I want to highlight that 43 of the 82 students graduating have an 85 or higher cumulative average. We have students attending major colleges across the United States, including Ivy League and other highly esteemed universities, students enlisting in the military, students going right to accredited trade programs, and students beginning their post high school experience in other areas. I could go on and on about how proud I am of this class, but I am profoundly proud of the people they have become. They are kind, compassionate, resilient, and overall wonderful group of human beings. Thank you Class of 2020 for just doing and being you!

I know there are questions out there about the 2020-2021 school year. We will be providing you guidance as we get more information. I remain hopeful that “normalcy” is right around the corner.

Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns, or

feedback. Go Bees!

Winter 2020 Scholar-Athletes

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) honors students that excel in the classroom at the end of each sport season. To receive this honor, each individual Varsity athlete must achieve a scholastic average of 90 or above grade-point average (GPA) during their sport season. Congratulations to the following Byron-Bergen winter season athletes:

Girls Basketball 94.19
Julianna Amesbury Siomara Caballero Elizabeth Donnelly Kelsey Fuller Kendall Phillips Sasha Schramm Chloe Shuskey Miriam Tardy
Ella VanValkenburg

Boys Basketball 90.27
Nicholas Baubie Alexander Brumsted Mitchell Gonyea Chad Green Rick Hubbard Travis Lambert Wyatt Sando Kevin Smith
Bryce Yockel

Wrestling BB/Elba 91.43 Jonah Clare
Daniels Dawson Alexander Dean Zachary Hannan Haydin Perez
Travis Shallenberger Malachi Smith James Starowitz Joshua Tardy
Braeden Zimmerman

Girls Swimming BB/LeRoy 93.42
Evelyn Babcock Cassidy Ball Charlotte Blake Ariana Bobzien Camryn Brookhart Emily Gonyea Alyssa Green Emma Hobart Peyton Koukides Alaura Rehwaldt Kathryn Salphine Grace Shepard Natalee Shepherd
Emma Starowitz

Sarah Sue Streeter Jorie Strzelecki Lilly Walker Leyna Wheeler Kylea Wright

Individual Brett Babcock
Cameron Carlson Brady Fix Jackson Fix Hope Hersom Hanna Loewke
Auburn Schwartzmeyer Alayna Streeter
Grant Williams

12 | FOCAL POINT

“
Elementary School NEWS By Brian Meister, Principal

2020 will be a year we never forget. Never before have we experienced a global pandemic that resulted in such a long closure of school, while at the same time limiting so much of the positive personal interactions children enjoy outside of school.
I am extremely grateful for the hard work and many efforts made by our faculty and staff to stay connected with our students and families. These past few months have shown us
that technology can be used to provide and support learning; however, it also showed us that the extent and effectiveness of distance learning cannot match that of teachers working closely and in proximity to students.

I would also like to thank our parents, families, and community for supporting and partnering with us to ensure that these past three months remained positive and productive through this time. It was wonderful to see families and students drive through for supply pick up, lunch pick up, and of course
our District-wide parade. It is often said that education is a partnership between parents and school. That was true this year more than ever.

Each year I send out information regarding academic regression or what is often known as “the summer slide.” Research has shown that students who are not engaged in regular reading practices and literacy rich activities for a sustained period of time encounter a stagnation or decline
in their reading skills. We typically see these students fall 1-3 reading levels during July and August. This drop in reading level means that the first few weeks of school is spent
re-teaching skills and strategies to regain the prior year’s proficiency. This year, with school closing on March 13th, we may see even larger drops in reading levels requiring much longer for students to catch up.

Fortunately, there are ways that families can reduce the impact of summer regression. Keep your kids reading throughout
the summer and read with them whenever possible. I know first-hand how busy summer can be with kids and their many activities. So here are a few suggestions to be sure to keep
them reading.

1. Read at the same time each day. Perhaps it’s story time before bed or set the timer for 15 minutes first thing in the morning. Kids thrive on routine.

2. Make it a manageable timeframe - 10-20 minutes is plenty.

3. Choose books or articles that are familiar and enjoyable. The goal is not to challenge them with more complicated texts that will frustrate them but rather to allow them to practice their skills on resources that are motivating and accessible.

4. If the book is frustrating, read it to them. Listening to fluent readers helps students with their fluency.

5. Let them read articles and stories online. Just be certain to monitor their online use.

6. Most importantly, have fun.

In terms of math, I recommend including math practice into your daily routine. Flash cards are a great way to practice math facts. We are expecting to keep our online programs such as IXL active for all students to practice with and there are many free and fun math programs out there. Your child’s teacher can share which ones are most appropriate for your child.

As we head into the most unusual start to a summer, I’d like to remind parents that there is much to learn in the summer months. I encourage parents to spend time with their children and talk about anything and everything. After a long day of play, ask them what they did, why they did it, and what they
liked best. These conversations strengthen loving relationships and help students learn valuable communication skills.

I would once again like to thank all of the families and friends of Byron-Bergen Elementary for their ongoing support of our students and school. Have a great summer. I look forward to seeing you in the fall.

I would also like to thank our parents,

families, and community for supporting

and partnering with us to ensure that these

past three months remained positive and

productive through this time.

SUMMER 2020 | 13

Student Art Showcase

“Tape Sculpture” Tape
By: Julia Schlenker-Stephens, grade 11 Bryanne Puma, grade 11 Art Teacher: Mrs. Auer

“Wolf in the Lamar Valley” Watercolor on Paper with Pencil & Pen By: Eala Coniglio, grade 4 Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Rocks” Colored Pencil
By: Caitlin Ashton, grade 12

Art Teacher: Mrs. Fritz

“Self Portrait” Sharpie & Photograph
By: John Klafehn, grade 10 Art Teacher: Mrs. Auer

“Memorial Flag” Chalk on Pavement
By: Kelly Parsons, grade 3 Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Bird” Colored Pencil
By: Bryce Yockel, grade 12

Art Teacher: Mrs. Fritz

“Self Portrait” Pencil
By: Jade Wolff, grade 7 Art Teacher: Mrs. Auer

“Plow Tractor” Crayon & Pencil
By: Talyn Darby, grade K Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Self Portrait” Self-Portrait
By: Skylar Sharpe, grade 11

Art Teacher: Mrs. Fritz

14 | FOCAL POINT

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J
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/A
UGUST
August 2020	New Teacher Orientation August 26-27, 2020

Professional Development (non-tenured teachers) - August 27,2020

HOLIDAYS/RECESSES Independence Day - July 4, 2020 Labor Day - September 7, 2020 Columbus Day - October 12, 2020
Veterans' Day - November 11, 2020 Thanksgiving Recess - November 25-27, 2020
Winter Recess - December 24, 2020 - January 1, 2021 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - January 18, 2021 February Recess - February 15-19, 2021
Spring Recess - March 29 - April 5, 2021 Memorial Day - May 31, 2021

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL September 8, 2020

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL June 25, 2021

GRADUATION June 26, 2021

TESTING SCHEDULE
August Regents - August 13-14, 2020 October 2020	January Regents - January 26-29, 2021
3rd- 8th NYS ELA Testing- April 20-22 2021 3rd- 8th NYS Math Testing - May 4-6, 2021 Grade 8 Written Science Test - June 7, 2021 June Regents - June 16-18, June 21-24, 2021 Regents Rating day - June 25, 2021

SUPERINTENDENT’S CONFERENCE DAYS NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Superintendent's Conference Day- September 2, 2020 Superintendent's Conference Day- October 9, 2020 Superintendent’s Conference Day- January 29, 2021
November 2020	Superintendent’s Conference Day- March 12, 2021

PARENT TEACHER CONFRENCE

1/2 Day of School - PreK-12 - November 20, 2020

1/2 Day of School - PreK-6 (only) - November 23, 2020 1/2 Day of School - PreK-6 (only) - November 24, 2020

DAYS OF INSTRUCTION

September	17 + 1 October	20 + 1 November	17
December	17 December 2020	January	18 + 1

February	15 March	19 + 1 April	19 May	20 June	19

181 + 4

Approved by the Byron-Bergen Central School District Board of Education on January 30, 2020.

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SUMMER 2020 | 15

Superintendent Mickey Edwards

Board of Education Debra List, President
Yvonne Ace-Wagoner, Vice President

Kimberly Carlson William Forsyth Tammy Menzie Amy Phillips
Jennifer VanValkenburg

Byron-Bergen Central School District

Bergen, NY 14416

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Brockport, NY Permit No. 7

Editor Susan Kuszlyk

Communication Specialist Gretchen Spittler

Graphic Designer Lisa Constantine

www.bbschools.org

Senior PARADE

16 | FOCAL POINT