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Superintendent’s Message

PBYRON-BERGEN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Budget 2023

BUDGET VOTE DATES

May 9th	Public Hearing on the 2023-24 Budget

Dear Byron-Bergen Learning Community,	May 16th       Budget Vote and Board of Education Elections

The Byron-Bergen Central School District Board of Education unanimously adopted the proposed 2023-2024 expense budget during its April 13th, 2023 meeting.

Each year’s budget process requires meticulous data analysis and extensive collaboration between the Board of Education, administrators, teachers, and staff; this year is no different. We are pleased to present the proposed 2023-2024 Byron-Bergen Central School Budget of $25,972,402. The proposed budget aligns with our goal of continuous academic improvement and supports innovation and college and career readiness.

We encourage you to review the information on the following pages to learn more about the budget, propositions, and Board candidates.
Community members will also have an opportunity to learn more about the Budget and candidates at a public hearing on May 9, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Jr./Sr. High School Auditorium.

In addition you will find more information regarding the budget, bus purchase proposition, and additional resources on our website at www.bbschools.org/budget. Please feel free to contact me or our Business Office at (585) 494 -1220 if you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support and we encourage you to exercise your right to vote on May 16th.

Pat McGee Superintendent of Schools

BUDGET VOTE

MAY 16, 2023

BUDGET AT-A-GLANCE

PROPOSED BUDGET $25,972, 402
	
TAX LEVY INCREASE 0.44%over the current year

WHAT IS ON THE BALLOT?
Voters will consider the following separate propositions on the ballot:
Proposition #1 – School Budget
The School will be authorized to expend the sum set forth in its estimate of expenditures for the 2023-24 school year in the amount of $25,972,402 and to levy the necessary taxes therefore.
Proposition #2 – School Vehicle Replacement
The School will be authorized to spend up to $283,421 to purchase and replace school buses and vehicles. With more students requiring educational placements outside of the Byron-Bergen District, we are in need of smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles to transport these students.
Proposition #3 – New 2023 Capital Reserve to Replace Old 2019 Capital Reserve
The School would be authorized to create a new “Capital Reserve Fund-2023” to replace the old “Capital Reserve-2019” with a maximum threshold of $4,000,000. This reserve has a life of 15 years and can be funded over that lifetime and be used to set monies aside for future capital projects. Currently, starting with the year 2027 schools will be required to purchase zero emission school vehicles. If this requirement does not change, we will need to purchase and install infrastructure to transition our fleet to be compliant. Any monies remaining in the existing 2019 Capital Reserve account will be transferred to the new 2023 Capital Reserve.
Proposition #4 – New 2023 Technology and Equipment Reserve
The School would be authorized to create a new “Technology and Equipment Reserve Fund- 2023” with a maximum threshold of $2,000,000. This reserve has a life of 15 years and can be funded over that lifetime and be used to set monies aside for future replacement and upgrading of our mass notification, cameras, secure door entry systems and equipment.

BOARD OF EDUCATION ELECTIONS:
There are two full term (three year) Board seats and one partial
(13.5 month) Board seat up for election this year, commencing in July 2023. Interested voters will select from the following candidates at the polls: Lisa Forsyth, Amy Phillips, Lynn Smith, and Cindy Matthews.

Three part budget expenditures

New York State law requires that school districts present the proposed budget in three parts: administrative, educational program and capital.

Administrative component – includes expenses for the Board of Education, central administration, instructional supervision, curriculum development, legal services, central data processing, printing, mailing, storage and employee benefits attributable to salaries included in these functions.

Educational program component – includes expenditures for instructional programs, school library/ audiovisual, attendance, counseling, health services, interscholastic athletics, student transportation, transfers to special aid fund and employee benefits attributable to salaries included in these functions.

Capital component – includes expenses for operations and maintenance, grounds, security, utilities, principal and interest payments for debt service, transfers to capital fund and employee benefits attributable to salaries included in these functions.

Total Budget: $25,972,402

Educational Program 69.34%

Administrative 9.65%

Capital Program

21.01%

Component
	Proposed Budget 2023-24
	Actual Budget 2022-23
	
ADMINISTRATIVE
			
Board of Ed, District Clerk & District Meeting
	$32,135
	$26,851
	
Central Administration
	$253,932
	$246,471
	
Finance
	$388,365
	$373,106
	
Legal Services and Public Information
	$181,621
	$163,110
	
Other central services
	$226,840
	$223,840
	
Other special items
	$272,109
	$258,373
	
Curriculum, Development & Supervision
	$136,560
	$126,298
	
Supervision Regular & Special Schools
	$617,368
	$573,648
	
Employee Benefits
	$396,483
	$387,385
	
TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE
	$2,505,413
	$2,379,082

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
			
Teaching Regular School
	$6,596,516
	$6,369,618
	
Teaching Special School
	$3,093,068
	$3,179,446
	
Pupil Personnel Services (attendance, counseling, health, psychologist, clubs, athletics, recreation/civic activities
	
$2,834,468
	
$2,713,428
	
Pupil Transportation
	$1,201,572
	$1,198,258
	
Garage Building
	$67,791
	$62,404
	
Contract Transportation and Community Service
	$0
	$0
	
Employee Benefits
	$4,216,829
	$4,136,491
	
TOTAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
	$18,010,244
	$17,659,645

CAPITAL
			
Operations of Plant
	$1,096,337
	$1,016,402
	
Maintenance of Plant
	$738,851
	$747,053
	
Other Special ltems
	$167,433
	$167,433
	
Principal/Interest Payments
	$3,108,100
	$3,213,929
	
Transfer to Capital Fund for Outlay Project*
	$100,000
	$100,000
	
Employee Benefits
	$246,024
	$240,549
	
TOTAL CAPITAL
	$5,456,745
	$5,485,366

TOTAL BUDGET
	$25,972,402
	$25,524,093

*Transfer to Capital Fund for Outlay Project

The 2023-24 general fund proposed budget includes a capital outlay project at the Jr/Sr High School Building. This project will include the replacement of exterior and interior doors, door hardware and card reader systems. The total cost of the project will not exceed $100,000 and is aided through NYS building aid. By completing this work in the 2023-24 school year, the District will receive the NYS building aid in the subsequent year.

Component
	Proposed Budget 2023-24
	Actual Budget 2022-23
	Dollar increase (decrease)
	
Percentage Change
	
Administrative
	$2,505,413
	$2,379,082
	$126,331
	5.31%
	
Educational program
	$18,010,244
	$17,659,645
	$350,599
	1.99%
	
Capital
	$5,456,745
	$5,485,366
	($28,621)
	(0.52)%
	
TOTAL BUDGET
	$25,972,402
	$25,524,093
	$448,309
	1.76%

2 Byron Bergen Focal Point

2023-24 Revenue

Revenue Sources
	Proposed Budget 2023-24
	Actual Budget 2022-23
	
Local property tax & STAR
	$9,223,509
	$9,183,231
	
Other tax items
	$152,892
	$145,025
	
Sales tax
	$50,000
	$35,000
	
Charges for services
	$5,722
	$12,000
	
Use of money & property
	$242,000
	$122,000
	
Other revenue
	$264,500
	$245,800
	
State aid
	$15,503,779
	$15,126,037
	
Federal aid
	$30,000
	$30,000
	
Reserves
	$200,000
	$200,000
	
Appropriated fund balance
	$300,000
	$425,000
	
TOTAL
	$25,972,402
	$25,524,093

The major sources of projected revenue for the 2023-24 school year are shown in the graph. State and Federal aid accounts for 59.69 percent of revenues. The local share, which represents local property taxes and STAR, accounts for 35.51 percent of revenues. District income, which represents all other sources of revenue, accounts for 4.8 percent of revenues.

Total Proposed Revenue: $25,972,402

State Aid

59.7%

2023-24 Proposed Expenditures

Proposed Expenditures
	Proposed Budget 2023-24
	Actual Budget 2022-23
	
Board of Ed, Central Admin, Finance, Legal & Public Info
	
$818,045
	
$788,027
	
Maintenance
	$1,835,188
	$1,763,454
	
Printing, postage, liability insurance, BOCES admin cost
	
$704,392
	
$691,157
	
Staff Development & Supervision
	$753,928
	$699,946
	
Instruction – regular
	$6,596,516
	$6,336,655
	
Instruction – special education
	$3,093,068
	$3,141,409
	
Occupational education & summer school
	$797,875
	$813,726
	
Library, Technology & Student services
	$1,499,003
	$1,449,537
	
Co-curricular/Inter-scholastic
	$537,590
	$500,165
	
Transportation & community service
	$1,269,362
	$1,261,663
	
Employee benefits
	$4,859,335
	$4,764,425
	
Transfer to Debt Service Fund for Debt Payment
	$3,108,100
	$3,213,929
	
Transfer to Capital Fund for Capital Outlay Project
	$100,000
	$100,000
	
TOTAL
	$25,972,402
	$25,524,093

Total Proposed Expenditures: $25,972,402

Instruction

51.1%

General Support 12.9%

Reserves and Appropriated Fund Balance
1.9%

Other Income

2.9%

Local Share

35.5%

Interfund Transfers
0.4%

Debt Service

12.0%

Transportation

4.9%

Employee Benefits
18.7%

School bus proposition	State Aid

The district will have a proposition to purchase replacement school buses on the ballot on May 16, 2023 in an amount not to exceed $283,421. The proposition includes the purchase of two (2) mini buses and three
(3) minivans. With this purchase of school vehicles, the district will continue to have a fleet of vehicles on a nine year replacement schedule.

Byron-Bergen is receiving approximately 90% State transportation aid on our 2023-24 school bus purchase. If the aid ratio remains the same for these two new buses and minivans,

the district would receive $255,079 in aid. The remaining $28,342 would be local share responsibility.

Summary of bus proposition:
• Proposition amount = $283,421 • Proposed # of mini buses = 2
• Proposed # of minivans = 3
• State transportation aid = $255,079 • Local share = $28,342
• Local share per mini bus = $7,790 • Local share per minivan = $4,254
• Tax increase for a $100,000 home = less than $2.00/year

90%

Local Share

10%

Budget 2023 3

School District Budget Notice

Overall Budget Proposal
	Budget Adopted for the 2022-23 School Year
	Budget Proposed for the 2023-24 School Year
	Contingency Budget for the 2023-24 School Year *

Total Budgeted Amount, Not Including Separate Propositions
	
$ 25,524,093
	
25,972,402
	
$25,761,925
	
Increase/Decrease for the 2023-24 School Year
		$448,309
	$237,832

Percentage Increase/Decrease in Proposed Budget
		
1.76%
	
.93%
	
Change in the Consumer Price Index
		8.0%

A. Proposed Levy to Support the Total Budgeted Amount
	$9,183,231
	$9,223,509
		
B. Levy to Support Library Debt, if Applicable
	$0
	$0
		
C. Levy for Non-Excludable Propositions, if Applicable **
	$0
	$0
		
D. Total Tax Cap Reserve Amount Used to Reduce Current Year Levy
	$0
	$0
		
E. Total Proposed School Year Tax Levy (A + B + C - D)
	$9,183,231
	$9,223,509
	$9,183,231
	
F. Total Permissible Exclusions
	$210,512
	$94,269

G. School Tax Levy Limit, Excluding Levy for Permissible Exclusions
	
$8,972,719
	
$9,129,240
		
H. Total Proposed School Year Tax Levy, Excluding Levy to Support Library Debt and/or Permissible Exclusions (E – B – F + D)
	
$8,972,719
	
$9,129,240

I. Difference: G – H (Negative Value Requires 60.0% Voter Approval – See Note Below Regarding Separate Propositions) **
	
$0
	
$0

Administrative Component
	$2,379,082
	$2,505,413
	$2,402,135
	
Program Component
	$17,659,645
	$18,010,244
	$17,978,045
	
Capital Component
	$5,485,386
	$5,456,745
	$5,381,745

* Provide a statement of assumptions made in projecting a contingency budget for the 2023-24 school year, should the proposed budget be defeated pursuant to Section 2023 of the Education Law.

The 2023-24 tax levy amount would remain the same as the 2022-23 actual tax levy amount and the 2023-24 proposed budget must be adjusted to reflect the reduction in tax collection. The 2023-24 budget reductions include the elimination of all equipment purchases (per Education Law), elimination of public newsletters and reduction in postage, elimination of Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee program, elimination of open weight room for students, elimination of some BOCES services, reduction in staff development, and reduction in building insurance coverage.

** List Separate Propositions that are not included in the Total Budgeted Amount: (Tax Levy associated with educational or transportation services propositions are not eligible for exclusion and may affect voter approval requirements)

Description
	Amount
	
Acquisition of two (2) mini buses and three (3) minivans
	$283,421
	
Creation of a Capital Reserve Fund-2023
	Not to exceed $4,000,000
	
Creation of a Technology and Equipment Reserve Fund-2023
	Not to exceed $2,000,000

	Under the Budget Proposed for the 2023-24 School Year

Estimated Basic STAR Exemption Savings1
	$697 Batavia & LeRoy, $670 Bergen & Stafford, $629 Byron, Clarendon & Elba, $603 Riga, $622 Sweden

The annual budget vote for the fiscal year 2023-24 by the qualified voters of the Byron Bergen School District, Genesee, Monroe and Orleans Counties, New York, will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 between the hours of 12:00pm and 9:00pm, prevailing time in the Sr High School Gymnasium (new location), at which time the polls will be
opened to vote by voting ballot. To receive an absentee ballot application, please contact Rachel Stevens at taxcollector@bbschools.org or (585) 494 – 1220 ext. 2329. *name, phone number and address are required*

1. The basic school tax relief (STAR) exemption is authorized by section 425 of the Real Property Tax Law.

4 Byron Bergen Focal Point

Answering your tax-related questions…

Q. What is Byron Bergen Central School’s budget for next year?

A. The proposed budget for the 2023-24 school year is $25,972,402. This represents a budget-to-budget increase of 1.76%.

Q. Were any programs or staff cut in the 2023-24 proposed budget?

A. No, the school is receiving additional State Aid this year, no cuts were made.

Q. What is Byron Bergen’s allowable tax levy limit?

A. Under the law, Byron-Bergen can establish a maximum tax levy limit increase of 0.44% for a simple majority vote. With the promised increase in State Aid funds, the District will be able to balance our 2023-24 budget. The 0.44% increase in the tax levy is a total increase of $40,278 or a $0.03 increase in the 2022-23 tax rate. For a home assessed at $100,000 this would result in approximately $3.00 increase in taxes for the 2023-24 school year.

Q. Why is the budget increasing 1.76%?

A. The majority of the spending increase is resulting from increases in health insurance premiums, increases in utility costs, addition of BOCES services, purchases of equipment and contractual pay increases.

Q. Why is the District looking to purchase 2 mini buses and 3 minivans?

A. With an increase in the number of our students having educational placements outside of our school district, we are looking to reduce transportation costs. Purchasing smaller transportation vehicles which are lower in cost and more fuel efficient will enable us to do so.

Q. Why is the School presenting Proposition #3 asking for the voters to establish a new reserve fund titled “Capital Reserve Fund-2023”?

A. In October 2021, district voters authorized the 2021 capital project and the use of $2,000,000 in the Capital Reserve-2019 to be used towards the cost of the 2021 capital project. With this approval, going forward, the Capital Reserve-2019 can no longer be funded with any excess funds remaining at the end of each school year for future capital projects. In order to start saving excess funds for a capital project in future years, we are asking the voters to approve the creation of a new Capital Reserve fund titled “Capital Reserve Fund-2023”. The life of this reserve is 15 years and the reserve cannot be funded more than $4,000,000 over
that same time frame. One potential future use of such a capital reserve may be to purchase and install infrastructure to meet the New York State mandated zero emission vehicle requirements. With the current NYS mandates, schools will only be able to purchase zero emission vehicles starting with the 2027 year and must be 100% zero emission by the year 2035. If these mandates do not change, the School will need to purchase and install infrastructure to operate and maintain a zero emission fleet.

Q. Why is the school presenting Proposition #4 asking for the voters to establish a new reserve fund titled “Technology and Equipment Reserve Fund-2023”?

A. A few years ago the District received and used SMART Bond monies, made available from NYS, to purchase and install our mass notification system, new security cameras and enhanced secure entryways at both the Elementary and Jr./Sr. High School for safety and security within the buildings. It is anticipated that the new technology may need updating or replacing within the next 7 to 10 years. The creation and ability to fund
a Technology and Equipment Reserve Fund-2023 would provide the District with a savings account which could be used to add to, replace, and upgrade this technology when needed. The life of this reserve is 15 years and the reserve cannot be funded more than $2,000,000 over
that same time frame. This maximum funding threshold has been based upon the original cost of the safety and security work already done.

Q. Is the STAR program still in effect?

A. Yes, the STAR program is in effect. The STAR exemption is a reduction on your school tax bill for homeowners who participated in the STAR exemption program prior to 2015 and continue to meet the eligibility requirements. For the Basic STAR exemption, the homeowner will see a reduction of $30,000 in taxable assessed value. For the Enhanced STAR exemption, the homeowner will see a reduction in taxable assessed value of $81,400 for residents of the Towns of Batavia, Bergen, Byron, Clarendon, Elba, Riga, Stafford, Sweden and $67,560 for residents of the Town of LeRoy

The STAR credit check is for eligible homeowners since 2015 and after. If you purchased your primary residence after August 1, 2015 and your income is $500,000 or less, you will receive a STAR check in the mail each year. For the STAR credit check method only, STAR exemption amounts may be increased by New York State by 2% or less each year.

Q. How do new homeowners apply for their STAR benefit?

A. For homes purchased after August 1, 2015 the homeowner will need to register for the STAR credit through New York State rather than applying with your assessor. For these homeowners, a STAR credit will be received in the form of a check from New York State directly.

Q. Am I eligible for the Enhanced Star benefit?

A. If you own your home and it is your primary residence, are age 65 by December 31, 2022 and your income is $93,200 or less, you are
eligible for the Enhanced STAR benefit. Go to www.tax.ny.gov for more information.

Q. What affect does an increase in property assessments have on my school taxes?

A. Increases in property assessments can cause an increase in your tax bill to be greater than the proposed 0.44%. Please note, the school is not involved in any increases/decreases with your property assessment. If you have any questions with regard to your assessment or need any information changed on your tax bill, you need contact your town tax assessor.
Budget 2023 5

Estimated Tax Information

Homeowners are eligible for tax relief under New York State’s Tax Relief Program (STAR). Upon application, homeowners may be eligible for up to a $30,000 decrease in their assessment. Senior citizens (age 65 and older) may be eligible for an Enhanced STAR reduction of their assessment in the amount of $81.400 for residents of the Towns of Batavia, Bergen, Byron, Clarendon, Elba, Riga, Stafford, Sweden and in the amount of $67,560 for
residents of the Town of LeRoy. The STAR exemption is authorized by section 425 of the Real Property Tax Law.

Maximum 2023-24 STAR Exemption Savings by Municipality

Basic

Enhanced

Town of Batavia
	
$697
	
$1,596

Town of Bergen
	
$670
	
$1,580

Town of Byron
	
$629
	
$1,570

Town of Clarendon
	
$629
	
$1,570

Town of Elba
	
$629
	
$1,570

Town of LeRoy
	
$697
	
$1,596

Town of Riga
	
$603
	
$1,506

Town of Stafford
	
$670
	
$1,580

Town of Sweden
	
$622
	
$1,467

Due to recent changes to the STAR application process, homeowners are encouraged to visit www.tax.ny.gov/star for more details.

Save the Date

True Value Tax Rate

Tax
	Actual 2022-23
	Estimated 2023-24
	
$ Change
	
% Change

Estimated true value tax per $1,000 full valuation

$20.95

$20.98

$0.03

0.14%

Final tax rates are established in August, when the tax rolls are prepared. These figures are only projections subject to adjustments. Projections are based upon the latest assessed values provided by the individual town accessors, and equalization by the New York State Office of Real Property Tax Services.

GRADUATION

June 23, 2023 at 6:30 pm Roberts Wesleyan University Cultural Life Center

6 Byron Bergen Focal Point

What will you see at the polls?

Proposition #1 - RESOLVED that the proposed budget of expenditures of the Byron-Bergen Central School District for the school year 2023-24, totaling $25,972,402 and for the purposes shown in the statement of estimated expenditures adopted by the Board of Education, be and the same hereby is approved and the amount thereof shall be raised by a levy of a tax upon the taxable property of the school district, after first deducting the monies available from State aid and other sources as provided by law.

Proposition #2 – RESOLVED that the Board of Education of the Byron-Bergen Central School District is hereby authorized to acquire two (2) mini buses and three (3) minivans at a cost not to exceed $283,421, which is estimated to be the maximum cost thereof, expend such sums for such purpose, levy the tax necessary therefore, to be levied and collected in annual installments in such years and in such amounts as may be
determined by the Board of Education, taking into account State aid received, and in anticipation of the collection of such tax, to issue bonds and notes of the District at one time or from time to time, or enter into a lease-purchase agreement to acquire said vehicles.

Proposition #3– RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Byron-Bergen Central School District, Genesee, Monroe and Orleans Counties, New York (the “District”) is hereby authorized and directed to

(a) establish a reserve fund pursuant to Education Law Section 3651 to be known as the “Capital Reserve Fund-2023” for the purpose of financing, in whole or in part, additions, alterations, renovations or other improvements to existing District’s buildings and facilities, construction of new buildings or facilities or the acquisition of lands or interests in lands for District purposes, including the construction, reconstruction or improvement of playgrounds, athletic fields, recreation areas, parking areas, roadways, sidewalks and other site improvements connected to such buildings and facilities, and the
acquisition and installation of machinery, equipment, apparatus or furnishings required for the purposes thereof, with the ultimate amount of such reserve fund not exceeding four million dollars ($4,000,000), plus any accrued earnings on amounts deposited in such reserve fund, the probable existence of said reserve fund being fifteen (15) years, but said reserve fund to continue in existence for its stated purpose until liquidated in accordance with the Education Law, and the sources from which funds shall be obtained for said reserve fund being (i) current and future unappropriated fund balances from the General Fund of the District, as directed by the Board of Education, (ii) appropriations authorized by the voters from time to time, (iii) fund balances transferred from other reserve funds of the District as may be authorized by the Board of Education or by the voters of the District from time to time in accordance with applicable State law, and (iv) state aid, as directed by the Board of Education from time to time; and

Proposition #4 – RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Byron-Bergen Central School District, Genesee, Monroe and Orleans Counties, New York (the “District”) is hereby authorized and directed to establish a reserve fund pursuant to Education Law Section 3651 to be known as the “Technology and Equipment Reserve Fund-2023” for the purpose financing, in whole or in part, the purchase of technology equipment, including hardware and software, related devices, networking equipment, peripherals, and other equipment (educational and office), machinery or apparatus incidental thereto or separately, provided that such capital costs are an object or purpose that would be eligible for financing under the Local Finance Law, the ultimate amount of such reserve fund shall not exceed
two million dollars ($2,000,000), plus any accrued earnings on amounts deposited in such reserve fund, the probable existence of said reserve fund being fifteen (15) years, but said reserve fund to continue in existence for its stated purpose until liquidated in accordance with the Education Law, and the sources from which funds shall be obtained for said reserve fund being (i) current and future unappropriated fund balances from the General Fund of the District, as directed by the Board of Education, (ii) appropriations authorized by the voters from time to time, (iii) fund balances transferred from other reserve funds of the District as may be authorized by the Board of Education or by the voters of the District from time to time in accordance with applicable State law, and (iv) state aid, as directed by the Board of Education from time to time.

Board of Education Candidates

The election of two (2) Board of Education trustees, with the highest number of votes, will be appointed for a three year term and one (1) Board of Education trustee, with the third highest number of votes, will be appointed to fill the Board seat vacated by William Forsyth for the term of May 17, 2023 through June 30, 2024.

(b) transfer to said capital reserve fund the entire balance on deposit in said District’s existing “Capital Reserve-2019” established pursuant to Education Law Section 3651 pursuant to a proposition approved by the qualified voters of said District on May 21, 2019.

BUDGET VOTE MAY 16, 2023

Budget 2023 7

Meet the Board of Education Candidates

I appreciate that we have a close knit Byron-Bergen community. I have lived in Byron for over 50 years and have a vested interest in its future. My husband, son, daughter and I are all proud Byron-Bergen graduates. I am honored to say that I taught as a Special Education teacher at Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School for 30 years. I recently retired
in June of 2022. I find myself greatly missing teaching and being part of the learning community. Therefore, I am excited to run for a position on the Byron-Bergen Board of Education.

Lisa Forsyth

I feel with my 30 years of experience at this very school, I have a unique perspective to bring to the table. I have seen our wonderful achievements and what bring success, and with that I am also aware of the areas in which there are needs. I want to bring transparency to our board meetings and have open and honest conversations to discuss solutions to meet the needs of the students, the school, and the community’s interests.

I would greatly appreciate your vote for a position on the Byron-Bergen Board of Education. Thank you.

Amy Phillips

My name is Amy Phillips, and I am seeking re-election to the Board of Education to continue to serve the Byron-Bergen community. It has been a pleasure to be part of the Byron-Bergen Board of Education for the last 10 years. I have learned so much throughout this time and know I will continue to grow if re-elected. A great aspect of being on the board is feeling like part of a team, not just with the other board members but with the entire Byron-Bergen learning community, working towards a common goal.

I hope to be a part of moving the district forward and offering students multiple opportunities and pathways to success while being fiscally responsible. With the continuation of unfunded mandates there are tough decisions ahead. I am willing to ask probing questions to make sure all aspects are considered. The goal of ensuring the district is doing everything possible to prepare students for life after high school and to be contributing members of the world no matter what path they choose is highly important.

My husband Cory and I have lived in Bergen for 17 years and have two children in the district Kendall (senior) and Evan (seventh grade). I am fortunate to have the opportunity to coach the boys U13 STING soccer team and be a volunteer for the Varsity Softball team. I am also currently the president of the BB STEP Boosters and am so proud of all the events that bring our community together like Trunk or Treat and Winter Festival. Finally, I enjoy volunteering in the community with my family and with teams I coach as I feel community service is incredibly important!

Working together we can continue to make great things happen! Thank you for your consideration of re-electing me to the Board of Education.

MUSIC NOTES

Sr. High Spring Band Concert
April 27 - 7:00 p.m.

Jr./Sr. High Auditorium

Sr. High

Spring Chorus Concert May 18 - 7:00 p.m.
Jr./Sr. High Auditorium

Grades 7-8

Spring Band & Chorus Concert

June 1 - 7:00 p.m.

Jr./Sr. High Auditorium

Grades 5-6

Spring Band & Chorus Concert

June 6 - 7 p.m.

Jr./Sr. High Auditorium

Grade 4

Spring Band & Chorus Concert

June 13 - 7 p.m.

Elementary Cafetorium

8 Byron Bergen Focal Point

Meet the Board of Education Candidates

Lynn Smith

Cindy Matthews

My name is Lynn Smith and I respectfully ask for your consideration and vote to be the newest member of the Board of Education at Byron-Bergen Central School District. My husband Doug and I have lived in Byron for 25 years. Our son, Kyle, is an 8th grader at the middle school. It is my desire to serve alongside well-respected individuals from our community to make decisions that impact all students at all levels; socially, physically, emotionally, and academically.

Currently, I work at Children’s Institute, a non-profit, affiliated with the University of Rochester. In this role, I serve as the
co-director of Primary Project, a program that supports young learner’s pre-K-3rd grade who exhibit school adjustment difficulties. My role is to provide school-based teams across New York State and nationally with training and consultation

My name is Cindy Matthews and I am seeking your vote for the Board of Education. My husband, Phil and I are both graduates of the Byron-Bergen Class of 1994. From kindergarten with Mrs. Hough to PIG senior year with Mr.
Rohe, I could tell you so many ways this school has made me the person I am today and how it has shaped me. Growing up in this community, we could not imagine any other place to
build a family, primarily because we wanted our future children to have the experiences and opportunities, we both cherished so much. We moved back home, to Byron, 20 years ago
and are now raising three children Alex (senior), Emma (8th Grade) and Sophia (6th grade).

I graduated from RIT in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and work in Medical Sales &
Distribution as a Sales Executive. I have volunteered for the BB STEP Boosters since 2013 holding the secretary position and chairing events such as the “fun fair” at the Elementary School. Throughout my professional career I have trained adults, written training curriculum, managed sales territories worth over $100M, negotiated multi-million-dollar contracts and served as the Membership Coordinator for the Women’s

so that they can be successful at implementing this evidence-based program. I also serve as treasurer for Tri County Youth Hockey and am an Inspector of Elections for Genesee County. For fun I enjoy gardening, hiking, kayaking, camping, biking and much more!

My work at Children’s Institute, along with fourteen years as a parent of a Byron Bergen Bee, gives me a solid foundation to support the mission and vision of the board and guide the district towards its goals. My track record includes the ability to build relationships and work collaboratively to make sound decisions which can strengthen the educational experience and outcomes of the students that attend our schools. I am up to the challenge and expectations of being an active and engaged member of the Board of Education. Go Bees!

Leadership Council at my company. I believe my education and professional career has prepared me to be a trustworthy and collaborative leader representing our communities’ financial interests and our children’s ability to be their best self.

Byron-Bergen is a district in a rural community facing many obstacles that other larger schools simply don’t. Those who move to this community and families who stay in this community generation after generation, do so because of the safe environment within the heart of the community, the
school. I want to help continue to build a district that students can all be proud to say they graduated from. I believe working with the teacher’s union to make sure we have allocated the appropriate resources to maximize learning and looking for unique ways to fund projects that make our schools the envy of the county is important for each member of the board to continuously strive for. I want to do more and be that voice not only for our children but for the community I care for so much.

Thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to earn your vote.

PLEASE VOTE MAY 16, 2023

Budget 2023 9

Featuring:
the Byron-Bergen
in the Byron-Bergen
Junior/Senior High Cafeteria
Voter Eligibility and Absentee Voting Information

The Byron-Bergen Music Department, Art Department and Music Boosters Proudly Announce the
The Byron-Bergen Music Department,

Buzzin’ Bistro
Jazz Night & Art Show
You are eligible to vote if you are:	The Byron-Bergen Music Department, • a United States citizen                                                                          Art Department and Music Boosters • at least 18 years of age                                                                                       Proudly Announce the
Buzzin’ Bistro
• have lived in Byron-Bergen Central School District for at least

30 days prior to vote
Jazz Night & Art Show
* Identification required	Jazz Night & Art Show

Tuesday, May 16th
6:00 - 8:00 P.M.
Tuesday, May 16th
6:00 - 8:00 P.M.
All occupants of houses or apartments who meet the criteria may vote,	Tuesday, May 16th as may any college student whose primary address is in the district. Pre-
0 - 8:00 P.M.
registration is not required.
6:0 in the Byron-Bergen

Absentee Ballots

Voters are able to request an absentee ballot. If you meet the criteria and would like to request an absentee ballot application, please contact Rachel Stevens at 585-494-1220 ext. 2329 or by email at
taxcollector@bbschools.org. In all cases, the deadline for the return of a ballots is 5:00 pm on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 for the vote to be counted. Under Education Law, ballots are invalid if received later than this time.

in Junior/Senior High Cafeteria Junior/Senior High Cafeteria

Featuring:
the 5th & 6th Grade Jazz Band, 5th & 6th Grade Choir,	tment 7th - 12th Grade Band, Singing Silhouettes and Music Department
& Staff Member Performances

and
Coﬀee
provided by:
+ Cookies + Cookies and Coffee provided

FREE ADM
+Cookies and Coﬀee provided by:
FREE ADMISSION!
FREE ADMISSION! ISSION

Sponsored by
Music Boost
ISSION!
FREE ADMISSION!
Sponsored by
FREE ADMSponsored by Music Boosters ers

Music Boosters

B-B Wrestling Club Annual Chicken Barbecue

Tuesday, May 16, 2023 4-7 p.m.
Chicken BBQ pick up is located in the Jr./Sr. High School Cafeteria - enter through the Jr./Sr. High School Main Entrance

Presale tickets $14.00

For tickets, see any wrestler or contact Rich Hannan at 494-1220, ext. 2003.

10 Byron Bergen Focal Point

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JULY/AUGUST

New Teacher Orientation August 23-24, 2023

Professional Development (non-tenured teachers)- August 24, 2023

HOLIDAYS/RECESSES Independence Day - July 4, 2023 Labor Day - September 4, 2023 Columbus Day - October 9, 2023
Veterans' Day (Observed) - November 10, 2023 Thanksgiving Recess - November 22-24, 2023
Winter Recess - December 25, 2023 - January 2, 2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - January 15, 2024 February Recess - February 19-23, 2024
Spring Recess - March 29, 2024 - April 8, 2024 Memorial Day - May 27, 2024
Juneteenth - June 19, 2024

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL September 6, 2023

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL June 26, 2024

TESTING SCHEDULE

January Regents - January 23-26, 2024

3rd - 8th Grade NYS ELA Testing - April 16-17, 2024 3rd - 8th Grade NYS Math Testing - May 7-8, 2024 5th & 8th Grade NYS Science Test - May 14, 2024
June Regents - June 4,14,17-18, 20-21, 24-25, 2024 Regents Rating day - June 17, 25-26, 2024

SUPERINTENDENT’S CONFERENCE DAYS NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Superintendent's Conference Day - August 30, 2023 Superintendent's Conference Day - September 5, 2023 Superintendent's Conference Day - October 6, 2023 Superintendent's Conference Day - January 26, 2024 Superintendent's Conference Day - March 15, 2024

PARENT TEACHER CONFRENCE

1/2 Day of School - PreK-12 - November 17, 2023

1/2 Day of School - PreK-5 (only) - November 20 & 21, 2023 1/2 Day of School - PreK-5 (only) - March 14, 2024

DAYS OF INSTRUCTION September	18 +     1 October	20 +     1 November	18 December	16 January	19 +     1 February	16
March	19 +     1 April	16
May                        22 June                       17
181 + 4

Approved by the Byron-Bergen Central School District Board of Education on 2/16/2023.

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Budget 2023 11

Superintendent Patrick McGee

Board of Education Debra List, President
Tammy Menzie, Vice President

Heidi Ball, Trustee Kimberly Carlson, Trustee Jeffrey Cook, Trustee Amy Phillips, Trustee
Jennifer VanValkenburg, Trustee

(Position vacated by William Forsyth)

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

Byron-Bergen Central School District Budget, Proposition Vote, and Board Candidate Election

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Please note our new voting location:
Sr. High School Gymnasium

12 Byron Bergen Focal Point