BYRON-BERGEN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT     • WINTER 2020 FOCAL POINT

Message from the Superintendent Looking back, looking forward
As we begin the new year, I am inspired to reflect on all that we accomplished in 2019. Frequently, reflections such as these are intangible; however, I would like to take a moment to reflect on some very visible changes to the District campus.

2019 saw major progress on the District’s Capital Project. This is evident by anyone who enters the Elementary School’s updated and widened bus loop; by anyone who visits the new tennis courts; by the students in the Elementary School cafeteria; or by community members who saw the beautiful new lighting system which illuminated our winter concert series like never before. These are just a few of the many improvements the District is undergoing. It is all coming together and I am very proud to be Superintendent during this exciting time.

I am also excited for everything that 2020 holds. The Elementary School 200 wing classroom renovations are on schedule for completion this year. The Elementary School will also receive new windows. The security system upgrades are well underway and then it will just be final touches and fine tuning as the construction comes to a close and we enjoy the finished

products.

It is with true optimism that I look forward to 2020 and beyond. Wishing our exceptional students, amazing staff, and incredibly supportive community a
very Happy New Year.

Byron-Bergen Central School

MISSION	District’s MISSIONis to inspire, prepare, and support using the

VALUES of compassion, humility,

Best regards,

Mickey Edwards

VALUES	VISION	kindness, and persistence with

the VISION to change the world.

More School House Rock photos inside!

Inside this issue

News from the Board.............................................................p. 2

School House Rock Live........................................................p. 4

College and Career Center Update.......................................p. 6

Byron-Bergen 2019-20 first quarter Honor Roll....................p. 8

Elementary School News.....................................................p. 10

Student Showcase...............................................................p. 12

Alumni Hall of Fame.............................................................p. 14

2020 Voter Information.........................................................p. 16

NEWS from the Board

Happy Holidays Byron-Bergen community!

For our community members who haven’t heard, Deputy Butler’s last day in the District was on Friday, December 20th. It is with mixed emotions that we say goodbye but we want to wish him well in his retirement. It was 4 years ago that our community
voted to approve the position of our SRO. The course for our District with this position was uncharted,
but with listening and talking to our students, community, faculty and staff, Deputy Butler became the perfect person for us. He built relationships with our youngest students in the Elementary building, becoming someone that every student looked forward to seeing daily. At the High School building he built relationships with students with open, honest conversations and respect. Through his leadership, along with our administration, Byron-Bergen became a district that other districts sought to emulate
with this program. On several different occasions Deputy Butler and Mr. Edwards were guest speakers providing information on why our program was so successful. During his tenure, Deputy Butler didn’t just work on safety and security for our campus, he worked to educate our families and students. He created and built a summer camp program called “Teen Police Academy” that has been held here at Byron-Bergen for not only our students, but for other students in surrounding districts that thought they might like to go into some field of law enforcement. He was at countless school events and has been
an asset to our school district. His presence will be missed, and we wish him well in this next phase of
life with his family.

Welcome new Transportation Coordinator Jaime Vindigni

Please join us in welcoming new Transportation Coordinator Jaime Vindigni. Vindigni joins Byron-Bergen after fourteen years with
Rush-Henrietta schools where she began as a bus monitor and worked her way to become a Driver, Driver Trainer, and Head Driver.

“I love the transportation industry,” said Vindigni. “I want to get to know the District, hopefully bring in some new ideas and learn from what District is already doing.”

As Transportation Director, Vindigni works with drivers, parents, and administrators to ensure safe bus rides and routes; manages daily schedules for field trips and sports trips; and stays informed of any updates in state or federal laws and regulations regarding transportation.

One area Vindigni wants to focus on is Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS). “The bus is an extension of the classroom. We want to support the drivers and the students – we want both to have a successful ride.”

Outside of work, Vindigni has three sons, 21, 5, and 3, and enjoys running and going to the gym with her husband. She was also a competitive body-builder for six years.

“I love the transportation industry, I want to get to

”
know the District, hopefully bring in some new ideas and learn from what District is already doing.

- Jaime Vindigni

With the start of 2020, the Board of Education is

excited to welcome Deputy Schildwaster as our

Pesticide Notice

new SRO. He is a great addition to our learning community. He will continue the positive work done in the past, bring new thoughts and ideas, and will help move the District forward with safety, security and positive relationships.

In closing, the Board of Education would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

Debi List

Debra List, President

Board of Education

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.

2 | FOCAL POINT

HELP WANTED

Do you have an interest in helping Byron-Bergen Central School District in the capacity of:

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

• 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.

Byron-Bergen varsity athletes achieve 100% Scholar-Athlete Team awards

The Byron-Bergen Senior High School proudly announces that every fall varsity Byron-Bergen afiliated sports team achieved the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Scholar-Athlete Team award. The fall sports teams are cheerleading, boys’ cross-country, girls’ cross-country, football, gymnastics, boys’ soccer, girls’ soccer, and girls’ volleyball.

“We are extremely proud of our student athletes,” said Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “Not only are
they getting it done on the field of play, but they are excellent

students and role models. All eight of the programs we are involved in qualified for NYSPHSAA Scholar Athlete Team awards. Simply put, I am proud to be a part of such an amazing community of dedicated kids, coaches and families. Congratulations to all!”

The Scholar-Athlete program recognizes athletes for their academic success. NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Team awards go to teams whose average GPA of 75% of the athletic team
equals 90 or above.

Scholar-Athlete Team award recipients:

Cheerleading Sarah Sue Streeter

Cross Country - Boys Joshua Fleming Zachary Hannan Cameron Carlson Frank Hersom Travis Lambert Colby Leggo Lincoln McGrath Wyatt Sando Caleb Sharpe
Corden Zimmerman

Cross Country - Girls Cassidy Ball Dayanara Caballero Siomara Caballero Hanna Loewke Stephanie Onderdonk Alaura Rehwaldt Elli Schelemanow
Julia Schlenker-Stephens Grace Shepard Leyna Wheeler

Football Alexander Dean Devon Heick Andrew Parnapy Xavier Thomas
Bryce Yockel

Gymnastics Kendall Chase Emily Salmonds Mikayla Yohon

Soccer – Boys Nicholas Baubie Jonah Clare Kyle Foeller Rick Hubbard Samuel Pringle
Nathan Zwerka

Soccer - Girls Julianna Amesbury Bianca Brumsted Zoey Chambry Elizabeth Donnelly Kelsey Fuller Hope Hersom
Melissa MacCowan Jillian Menzie Kendall Phillips Bryanne Puma Chloe Shuskey Miriam Tardy
Ella VanValkenburg

Ava Wagoner

Volleyball - Girls Justine Bloom Hannah Catalino Madison Farnsworth Sara Fraser Amaya Gunther Grace Huhn Kelly Ireland Cynthia Morse Julia Pangrazio Jorie Strzelecki
Alexandra Vurraro

WINTER 2020 | 3

SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE!

Byron-Bergen Jr/Sr. High School is proud to present the delightful musical revue, “School House Rock Live!” on Thursday, March 5; Friday, March 6; and Saturday, March 7, with all shows starting at 7:00 PM. Based on the award winning Saturday morning cartoon series of the same name, this show features 50 of B-B’s finest
singers, dancers, actors, and crew members performing such classic hits as “Conjunction Junction,” “I’m Just a Bill” and “Inter-planet Janet”. This classic show teaches kids (and “grown-up kids”) history, grammar, math, and science concepts through clever, catchy songs! This lively
show is perfect for ALL ages, and has LOTS of audience

participation…in fact, the audience is part of the show itself! Lead performers include Justine Bloom, Fiona Burke, Caleb Calhoun, Hannah Catalino, Kendan Dressler, Kelly Ireland, Sage Johnson, Libby Piper, Deacon Smith, Malachi Smith, Isabelle Stevens, and Nicole Stone. The show is dramatically and musically directed by Laurence Tallman, with costumes by Faline Tyler. Tickets go on sale February 10th, and are $10 ($8 for students and seniors). “School House Rock Live!” is presented with licensing and special permission from Music Theater International (MTI), 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 (www.
MTIShows.com). Come rock the School House with us!

4 | FOCAL POINT

Jr./Sr. High School UPDATE

By Patrick McGee

It is hard to believe we are already halfway through the school year. I am so proud of the hard work of our students and staff. The positivity that runs through our building day in and day
out is so refreshing. We have truly become an awesome team. That is due to all of our stakeholders who believe in working together for what’s best for kids.

One thing we strive to do for our students is to offer as many instructional opportunities as we can. Over the
next few months our counselors will start scheduling our students for the 2020-2021 school year. We are pleased to add more Advanced Placement (AP) courses and electives to our 2020-2021 course handbook. Please feel free to set

Scholar Program

t
up an appointment or call us with any questions or feedback with this process. Parents of High School students are encouraged to attend our college and career planning night on February 6h
at 6:00 PM in the Jr. /Sr. High School Professional Development Room. This is another informative night to help you be proactive in the planning of your son’s or daughter’s future.

Students in the new musical, “Schoolhouse Rock Live” have been working extremely hard over the last few months. There is so much to be said for the talent we have in our school in the arts. I am so proud to work in a District where these programs are recognized and highlighted. I encourage everyone to come
out and see our show in March.

Please visit SchoolTool to check in on your son’s or daughter’s progress throughout the year. The parent portal is a great
way to stay connected to the work your kids are doing in the classroom. Feel free to contact a teacher if you have any questions. If you cannot log in or would
like further guidance on our parent portal, please call our Counseling Ofice for assistance.

It is such a pleasure to work in such a supportive environment. I thank everyone for your help in making our school the best it can be. If anyone would like to contact me to provide concerns, feedback, or ideas, please call me at 494-1220 ext. 2401, email at pmcgee@bbschools.org, or
schedule an appointment. Thanks again.

The Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School’s academic incentive program recognizes students for their good effort, attendance, and academics. This reward program is named the “Scholar Program” and the cards achieved are Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Special Recognition. At the end of the year, monetary awards are presented at Academic & Athletic Recognition Night to seniors who have maintained a solid record of attaining cards throughout their High School career.

The Scholar Program Committee is pleased to announce the first marking period:

Gold Card Cassidy Ball Carlee Barons Nicholas Baubie Jack Benstead Ryan Benstead Justine Bloom
Dayanara Caballero Siomara Caballero Caleb Calhoun Caris Carlson Jake Carlson Deborah Catalino Hannah Catalino Emily Chaback Tyler Chapman Kendall Chase Jonah Clare Noah Clare Amber Cromey Isabella Davidson Kaspars Dawson Alexander Dean Richard Denson Craig DiQuattro Jacey Donahue
Elizabeth Donnelly Lea Donofrio

Joshua Fleming Kyle Foeller Sara Fraser Chesney Fregoe Logan Fregoe
Sophia Frongetta Haylee Gartz Sara Goodman Gabrielle Graff Ava Gray Mackenzie Hagen Rachel Hanel Frank Hersom Hope Hersom Samuel Hersom
Makala Hoopengardner Brooke Jarkiewicz Meghan Kendall Landon Kent Kaidance Kimble Cambria Kinkelaar Eli Kupfer Travis Lambert Colby Leggo Ella Lewis Hanna Loewke
Jackson Lundfelt Martin Mac Connell

Lincoln McGrath Anna McLaughlin Jillian Menzie Connor Moran Meghan Muscarella Ryan Muscarella Stephanie Onderdonk Kasey Pagels Valerie Pastore Kendall Phillips Madelynn Pimm Adam Piper Elizabeth Piper Natalie Prinzi Alaura Rehwaldt Victoria Rogoyski Austin Salmonds
Brianna Salmonds Sydney Salmonds
Ashley Schlenker-Stephens Sasha Schramm MacKenzie Senf Olivia Senf Skylar Sharpe Trent Sheard Grace Shepard Zoey Shepard

Roman Smith James Starowitz Brandon Stefanski Isabelle Stevens Alayna Streeter Sarah Sue Streeter Matthew Tanner Joshua Tardy Miriam Tardy Ciara Trigilio
Ella VanValkenburg Lillian Walker Hannah Wies Benjamin Wilkins Luke Williams Rose Wilson Kaitlyn Windhauser Mikayla Yohon
Corden Zimmerman Nathan Zwerka

Silver Card Brody Baubie Isabelle Best Jason Bleiler
Jeremiah Cicatelli Kendan Dressler Eden Goff

Chad Green Adriana Guzman Evan Harter Rose Hubbard Logan Lewis Zechariah Merrell
Danyel Nowatchik Nathan Parsons Elli Schelemanow Deacon Smith Kevin Smith Leyna Wheeler Hannah Wittman

Bronze Card Hallie Calhoun Veronica Duell Dru Nowatchik Liliana Vanegas
Connor Windhauser

Special Recognition
Camryn Brookhart

WINTER 2020 | 5

College and Career Center UPDATE By Rob Kaercher, Counselor

With the holidays behind us, many of our students were asked the dreaded question that is forced upon them at the dinner table by their family and friends: What do you want to do with your life? For most of our alumni that question may repeat itself for years to come. That can sometimes be the most frightening question for many teenagers, and even many adults, who are still deciding their career pathway. As a College and Career
Counselor, I find it dificult for students to answer this question because who really knows the answer? Life is a collection
of learning experiences that eventually bring us to that moment where we find our career calling. Some kids know in Elementary School when they confidently tell us they are going to be a doctor or a police oficer, and others
have a list of jobs the length of a CVS

receipt before they find “THE ONE.” We are just happy and proud that Byron-Bergen, along with our connection to Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (GVEP BOCES), Genesee Community College (GCC), Business Education Alliance (BEA), and Western New York Tech Academy are able to provide programing such as hands on learning and college courses that may create that spark of interest. We are thankful that our community is so supportive of our students and provides them with opportunities and career mentorship.

As we look back at the last year, we see highlights that focus on college
readiness by having many students tour Syracuse University and SUNY Alfred
State, as well as meet with over 50

college admissions representatives. We provided career focused programming by attending the first ever GLOW with Your Hands event at the Genesee County Fairground. This event exposed students to many career opportunities right here in Genesee County. In school, engaging guest speakers from the Department of Labor, Department of Defense, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and ISAAC Heating and Cooling spoke about career pathways that can begin as early as high school graduation with a strong emphasis
on apprenticeships. Recently, our sophomore class attended a career day at SUNY Genesee Community College where they heard from three guest speakers in career pathways that interested them the most. These opportunities inspire our students to
learn, explore, and discover what might be their future career.

This spring will hold just as many opportunities as the fall. From a health career day to 8th grade career day
to career panels to college fairs to classroom visits, we are excited to start the decade off with more opportunities
than ever before!

Recently, our sophomore

class attended a career day at

SUNY Genesee Community

College where they heard from

three guest speakers in career

pathways that interested them

the most. These opportunities

inspire our students to learn,

explore, and discover what

might be their future career.

6 | FOCAL POINT

DWI Poster Contest

Six student artists were honored by the Genesee County STOP-DWI Advisory Board for their winning submissions to the annual STOP DWI poster contest.

		

Zoey Shepard,
9TH grade, was the Grand Prize winner. Her poster will be featured on a STOP-DWI bill board.

“
We look forward to this contest every year, “I work with the students on understanding the elements of a good design. I emphasis clear, readable fonts, bold colors, proper spelling, and neat original graphics. We talk about how the viewer only has
a moment while driving to glimpse the art so it should be simple an easy to read. The kids never disappoint with their awesome ideas!

- Jr./Sr. High School Art teacher Sandy Auer

Jade Wolff,

7th grade, won the computer-generatedart category.

Brooke Jarkiewicz and Grace Shepard, both in 10th grade, won first place in the 9th - 12th
grade category for their joint submission.

Ciara Trigilio,

7th grade, won first place in the 6th - 8th grade category.

Jackson Lundfelt,

7th grade, won second place in the 6th - 8th grade category.

WINTER 2020 | 7

Byron-Bergen 2019-20 first quarter Honor Roll

The following Byron-Bergen Central School students have been named to the Honor Roll for the first 10-week marking period of the 2019-20 school year:

GRADE 7:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Ryan Benstead, Isabelle Best, Jake Carlson, Deborah Catalino, Kendall Chase, Jeremiah Cicatelli, Noah Clare, Abigail Cook, Amber Cromey, Isabella Davidson, Kaspars Dawson, Craig DiQuattro, Lea Donofrio, Jack Farner, Chesney Fregoe, Logan Fregoe, Sophia Frongetta, Haylee Gartz, Peyton Goodenbery, Ava Gray, Rachel Hanel, Samuel Hersom, Eva Jackson, Landon Kent, Eli Kupfer, Ella Lewis, Jackson Lundfelt, Martin MacConnell, Anna McLaughlin, Connor Moran, Meghan Muscarella, Kasey Pagels, Adam Piper, Natalie Prinzi, Ian Pulcini, Sydney Salmonds, Ashley Schlenker-Stephens,
Olivia Senf, Jayme Sharp, Trent Sheard, Roman Smith, Lily Stalica, James Starowitz, Ruger Starowitz, Ciara Trigilio, Olivia Wheeler, Rose Wilson, Hannah Wittman, Jade Wolff, Mikayla Yohon

HONOR ROLL

Janessa Amesbury, Samantha Beale, Zachary Brookhart, Annabelle Erion, Brendin Galves, Alexus Kreutz, Jaden Schirmer, Rito Vanegas

EFFORT ROLL

Ryan Benstead, Isabelle Best, Jake Carlson, Deborah Catalino, Kendall Chase, Abigail Cook, Amber Cromey, Isabella Davidson, Kaspars Dawson, Craig DiQuattro, Lea Donofrio, Jack Farner, Chesney Fregoe, Logan Fregoe, Sophia Frongetta, Haylee Gartz, Peyton Goodenbery, Ava Gray, Rachel Hanel, Samuel Hersom, Eva Jackson, Landon Kent, Eli Kupfer, Ella Lewis, Jackson Lundfelt, Martin MacConnell, Anna McLaughlin, Connor Moran, Meghan Muscarella, Kasey Pagels, Adam Piper, Natalie Prinzi, Sydney Salmonds, Ashley Schlenker-Stephens, Olivia Senf, Jayme Sharp, Trent Sheard, Roman Smith, Lily Stalica, James Starowitz, Ciara Trigilio, Olivia Wheeler, Rose Wilson, Hannah Wittman, Jade Wolff, Mikayla Yohon

8 | FOCAL POINT

GRADE 8:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Brody Baubie, Kylee Baxter, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Tyler Chapman, Hallie Coleman, Daniels Dawson, Grayson Erion, Gabrielle Graff, Mackenzie Hagen, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Victoria Rogoyski, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Malachi Smith, Lydia Zaffrann

HONOR ROLL

Emma Balduf, Carlee Barons, Chloe Gilbert, Autumn Hafner, Hendrik Haymon, James Heick, Dru Nowatchik, Brendan Pimm, Nevaeh Santiago, Emma Starowitz, Liliana Vanegas, Lukas Volkmar, Connor Windhauser, Natalie Zastrocky, Megan Zwerka

EFFORT ROLL

Emma Balduf, Carlee Barons, Brody Baubie, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Tyler Chapman, Daniels Dawson, Grayson Erion, Chloe Gilbert, Gabrielle Graff, Autumn Hafner, Mackenzie Hagen, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Victoria Rogoyski, Nevaeh Santiago, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Malachi Smith, Emma Starowitz, Lukas Volkmar, Sawyer Zinter, Megan Zwerka

GRADE 9:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Alyssa Ball, Cassidy Ball, Jack Benstead, Jason Bleiler, Leonna Bonacci, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Kendan Dressler, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Joshua Tardy, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker, Leyna Wheeler,
Hannah Wies, Nicholas Zwerka

HONOR ROLL

Olivia Best, Grace Capostagno, Elizabeth Cramer, Matthew Olander, Victoria-
Pearl Parnell, Alexandria Schuck, Kaya Wildschutz, Emily Yun, Sydney Zastrocky

EFFORT ROLL

Alyssa Ball, Cassidy Ball, Jack Benstead, Jason Bleiler, Leonna Bonacci, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Elizabeth Cramer, Kendan Dressler, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, Alexandria Schuck, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Joshua Tardy, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker,
Leyna Wheeler, Hannah Wies, Emily Yun, Nicholas Zwerka

GRADE 10:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Corin Abdella, Madison Burke, Caleb Calhoun, Caleb Carlson, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Alexander Donnelly, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz, Meghan Kendall, Cole McAllister, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Sasha Schramm, Grace Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Jorie Strzelecki, Ella VanValkenburg, Alexandra Vurraro, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Corden Zimmerman

HONOR ROLL

Jared Barnum, Rachel Best, Camryn Brookhart, Aidan Clark, Connor Gale, Angelique Heick, Alexander Toal, Ashley Weit

EFFORT ROLL

Corin Abdella, Jared Barnum, Rachel Best, Camryn Brookhart, Madison Burke, Caleb Calhoun, Caleb Carlson, Aidan Clark, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Alexander Donnelly, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz,
Meghan Kendall, Cole McAllister, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Sasha Schramm, Grace
Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Jorie Strzelecki, Ella VanValkenburg, Alexandra Vurraro, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Emily Zastrow,
Corden Zimmerman
continued on p. 9

continued from p.8	Byron-Bergen 2019-20 first quarter Honor Roll

GRADE 11:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Mya-Lyn Albanese, Nicholas Baubie, Bianca Brumsted, Emily Chaback, Zoey Chambry, Jonah Clare, Tylor Coats, Richard Denson, Joshua Fleming,
Sara Goodman, Devon Heick, Hope Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood, Colby Leggo, John Mercovich, Julia Pangrazio, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Matthew Rada, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Nicole Stone, Sarah
Sue Streeter, Amanda Stutzman, Xavier Thomas, Devon Zinter

HONOR ROLL

Carleigh Buell, Julietta Doyle, Veronica Duell, Eden Goff, Adriana Guzman, Trebor Johnston, Courtney Klapp, Aiden Kulikowski, Logan Lewis, Zechariah Merrell, Jaden Pocock, Julia Schlenker-Stephens, Mason Singer, Deacon Smith, Joshua Swapceinski, Gianni Vallese, Morgan Vincent, Angela Young

EFFORT ROLL

Mya-Lyn Albanese, Nicholas Baubie, Alden Belknap, Carleigh Buell, Hallie Calhoun, Emily Chaback, Jonah Clare, Tylor Coats, Richard Denson, Veronica Duell, Joshua Fleming, Sara Goodman, Krystal Hagen, Jonathan Hahn, Hope
Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood,

GRADE 12:

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Ariana Bobzien, Alexander Brumsted, Dominick Butz, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Jacey
Donahue, Elizabeth Donnelly, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Nicholas Hackman, Zachary Hannan, Evan Harter, Coltin Henry, Rose Hubbard, Rick Hubbard, Jr., Mikaela Hubler, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie, Cynthia Morse, Enson Nieves, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Peter Smith, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Garrett Swinter, Miriam Tardy, Justice Towne, Annabella Vurraro, Bryce Walker, Isabella Wilder, Benjamin Wilkins, Grant Williams, Luke Williams, Bryce Yockel, Kyong-ae Yun, Nathan Zwerka

HONOR ROLL

Megan Bogue, Ryan Bridge, Sydney Brown, Samuel Pringle, Kevin Smith,
Cardona Tirado, Braeden Zimmerman

EFFORT ROLL

Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Ariana Bobzien, Megan Bogue, Ryan Bridge, Sydney Brown, Alexander Brumsted, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Jacey Donahue, Elizabeth Donnelly, Ashley Drury, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Evan Harter, Alexander Heatherman, Coltin Henry, Rose Hubbard, Rick Hubbard, Jr., Mikaela
Hubler, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie, Enson Nieves, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Peter Smith, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Garrett Swinter, Miriam Tardy, Annabella Vurraro, Bryce Walker, Isabella Wilder, Benjamin Wilkins, Grant Williams,
Luke Williams, Bryce Yockel, Braeden

Zimmerman, Nathan Zwerka

Colby Leggo, Logan Lewis, John Mercovich, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Matthew Rada, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Deacon Smith, Nicole
Stone, Sarah Sue Streeter

Congratulations

Running for the School Board of Education

The Byron-Bergen Board of Education’s seven members are elected by District residents and serve unpaid, three-year terms. The board is responsible for setting policy within state and federal laws and serves as the community’s communication link with the educational staff. If you are committed to education and want to make an impact on our District, consider running for school board. We are looking for folks who will always be focused on the good of schoolchildren, who are:

• Effective communicators

• Consensus builders

• Community participants

• Leaders and decision-makers

• Information processors

• Team players

Board candidate petitions can be obtained from the District Clerk, Rachel Stevens, in the District Ofice starting March 2, 2020, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 3 PM They must be returned by 3:00 PM on Monday, April 14, 2020.

WINTER 2020 | 9

“
Elementary School NEWS By: Brian Meister

On behalf of Byron-Bergen Elementary School, I would like to wish all of our families, friends, and community members a Happy New Year. These past few months have been filled with fun and exciting learning activities. We are looking forward to making many more memories in 2020.

The start of the 2019-2020 school year has certainly been one to
remember. We are still under construction as part of the Capital Improvement Project. Our students have had the unique opportunity to see the ‘skeleton’ of our school. They ask lots
of great questions about what various pipes and vents are for. They get very excited when work gets completed and they get to see the end results. As the project moves toward Phase III, we remain committed to ensuring the students have all of the resources needed for a successful school year.

We cannot say enough positive things about our Byron-Bergen Music Department. This year’s Holiday Concert was a huge success. Students in grades 5 and 6 worked extremely hard to prepare for and put on a beautiful selection of holiday music. Students in our 4th grade choral and instrumental ensembles are busy preparing for their first show in the spring. Students
who are interested in one of our ensembles in grades 4-6

should see Mrs. Tischer or Mr. Lancia and we will get them involved.

Students in grades 4-6 had the opportunity to participate in their first PageTurners competition December 13th at LeRoy High School. I am proud to share that our two teams placed 2nd and 3rd. PageTurners is a competitive reading club where participants from schools throughout the region read a common set of books and answer comprehension questions that relate to each book. The selected titles range in genre and complexity creating a rigorous and challenging experience for the students. In addition to the competitions, the club meets throughout the year during lunch to discuss the books and prepare.

Our Character Education Team held monthly school-wide assembly programs where the students were taught our District core values to Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Accountable, and Be Your Best Self. Each week we recognize students who show these qualities here at school with our Leader Bee program and celebrate even more with students who are selected as our Students of the Month.

I would like to thank our community, parents, and friends for their continued support of our school. If you have any questions, please contact me at 494-1220 or by email at
bmeister@bbschools.org.

Grace Jack is Retiring Please join us in wishing Grace Jack a happy retirement. After 25 years with the Byron-Bergen Central School District, Jack retires at the end of January. She began her career part-time as a Cafeteria Monitor then, after three years, became a 1-to-1 Aide, transitioning to full-time.

“The teachers that I’ve worked with have always been amazing. I enjoy the kids. I’ve never considered my job a ‘job.’ I love to come to work every day. Everyone here has touched my life in so many ways. I hope I made a difference in the lives of the children and they’ll forever be in my heart.”

In retirement, Jack plans to travel including an upcoming trip to Hawaii.

I hope I made a difference in

the lives of the children and

they’ll forever be in my heart.

- Grace Jack

10 | FOCAL POINT

“
terChall
WaElementary School enge Are you hydrated? Physical Education Teacher Danielle Carson and

the Elementary School Health and Wellness Team challenged the Elementary School students and staff to drink eight-8 oz. glasses of water each day for one week. One classroom from each grade level won a cider and granola bar party for consuming the largest amount of water but, more importantly, they received the health benefits of being well-hydrated.

"Water is known to be the best and most natural hydrating liquid,” said Carson. “It has a number of physical and mental health benefits for children and adults. We are hoping that this challenge will encourage students and staff to continue to drink more water throughout their day."

According to the Center for Disease Control, drinking enough water may improve cognitive function in children and adolescents. The Byron-Bergen students and staff accepted the challenge with enthusiasm.

Congratulations to the following classrooms for drinking the most water in their grade level:

Kindergarten:

1st Grade:

2nd Grade:

3rd Grade:

4th Grade:

5th Grade:

6th Grade:

Mrs. Gardner’s Class drank 219 glasses

Miss Matteson’s Class drank 67 glasses

Mrs. Saeli’s Class drank 107 glasses

Mrs. Engle’s Class drank 804 glasses

Miss Morriss’ Class drank 451 glasses

Mr. Rogoyski’s Class drank 187 glasses

Miss Gall’s class drank 361 glasses

Water is known to be the best

and most natural hydrating

liquid, It has a number of

physical and mental health

benefits for children and adults.

Congratulations to all the participants!	- Physical Education Teacher Danielle Carson

2020-2021 Transportation Applications DUE APRIL 1

Byron-Bergen is now accepting 2020-2021 transportation requests for private and parochial students. Applications are available on the district website at www.bbschools.org, or by phone 585-494-1220 ext. 5112.

Applications need to be completed and returned by April 1st to

the District Ofice at 6917 West Bergen Rd, Bergen, NY 14416.

Parents needing private and parochial transportation for their children must file an application each year service is requested.

Current residents who fail to request either of these services by the April 1st deadline are not guaranteed service at the opening
of school, so apply today.

WINTER 2020 | 11

Student

“Shaking Dog” Paint on Paper
By: Liana Torres-Brown, grade 2 Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Pop Art Self Portrait” Acrylic Painting & Sharpie By: Ciara Trigilio, grade 7 Art Teacher: Mrs. Auer

Showcase

“My Insect” Sharpie & Pencil
By: Maddex Haymon, grade 5 Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Piano Keys” Graphite on Paper
By: Danyel Nowatchik, grade 10 Art Teacher: Mrs. Fritz

“Coil Vessel” Pottery
By: Sarah Hanel, grade 10 Art Teacher: Mrs. Auer

12 | FOCAL POINT

Universal Prekindergarten

The Byron-Bergen School District hopes to once again offer a half day Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) program for the 2020-2021 school year. The class will be held at the
Byron-Bergen Elementary School which is located at 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen, NY 14416.

Students eligible for the program must turn four years of age by December 1, 2020. If you have a child eligible and are interested in having him/her attend our UPK program, please send a letter of interest with your child’s name, parents’ names, address, phone number, and date of birth to: Brian Meister, Elementary School Principal, 6971 West Bergen Rd., Bergen, NY 14416, by Friday, April 3, 2020. Parents that have already contacted the Elementary School by phone will still need to send in a letter to be eligible for UPK. Please note that if we receive more than our allowed capacity, we will select students using a lottery system.

What are the Program Goals of the UPK at Byron-Bergen?

• To meet the NYS learning standards by using a curriculum that is thematically based and supported using literature, songs, and exploration.

• To foster an environment that promotes happy, confident children who are willing to take risks, make independent choices, and ask questions.

• To create an inclusive community that builds upon the student’s strengths and accommodates their needs.

Philosophy of UPK

The UPK program at Byron-Bergen is focused on socialization, learning through play, and self-exploration. Children learn through a hands-on learning environment that includes activities, learning centers, concrete materials, and manipulatives. Students learn through a nurturing environment that is enriching, challenging, and developmentally appropriate.

Required Immunizations for Pre-Kindergarten

Kindergarten Registration Reminder

Children who will be five years of age, on or before December 1, 2020, are eligible for entrance to kindergarten in September of 2020. New families in the school district should notify the school if they have a child that will enter kindergarten in September of 2020. Parents may contact the Byron-Bergen Elementary School Ofice by calling 494-1220, ext. 1301. Information may also be sent to the Byron-Bergen Elementary School, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen, New York 14416.

All children registering for kindergarten will be scheduled for a screening appointment this summer. The results
of this screening will be used to plan for the 2020-2021 Kindergarten Program.

The following items are necessary to complete the registration process:

• Your child’s Birth Certificate

• Certificate of Immunization - https://www.health.ny.gov/ prevention/immunization/schools/schoolvaccines/

• Proof of Residency – If this is the first time you have a child entering Byron-Bergen Central School District, please bring proof of residency to your screening appointment. This can be a copy of your mortgage statement, rental/ lease agreement or a copy of your tax bill.

For more information or to register your child, please contact:

Elementary School Ofice (585) 494-1220 ext. 1301

Information may also be sent to: Byron-Bergen Elementary School 6971 West Bergen Road
Bergen, NY 14416

Required Immunizations for Kindergarten

Immunization
	Number of Doses
	
Polio
	3
	
Hepatitis B
	3
	
Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis
	4
	
Measles/Mumps/Rubella
	1
	
Varicella (Chickenpox)
	1
	
Hemophilus Influenzae
	1 to 4
	
Pneumococcal Conjugate
	1 to 4

Immunization
	Number of Doses
	
Polio
	4 doses or 3 doses if the 3rd dose given at 4 years of age or older
	
Hepatitis B
	3 doses
	
Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis
	5 doses or 4 doses if the 4th dose given at 4 years of age or older or 3 doses if 7 years or older & series started at age 1 or older
	
Measles/Mumps/Rubella
	2 doses
	
Varicella (Chickenpox)
	2 doses

WINTER 2020 | 13

Community holiday spirit abounds at Byron-Bergen Central School District

Members of the Byron-Bergen Central School District’s learning community can always be counted on to provide assistance to neighbors in need during the holidays. For many years, district students, teachers, staff, and administrators have worked together with local partners to make the season
happier for everyone in the Byron-Bergen area. This year’s Holiday Community Service program collected toys and games, clothing items, rolls of wrapping paper, boxes for wrapping gifts, and
over 1,200 non-perishable food items. In addition, close to $6,000 was donated by the faculty, staff, and others in our learning community to purchase gifts
for district families in need. Many area businesses, churches, and community
members also helped out by “adopting”

local families and individuals, providing special holiday gifts.

The District partnered with the local Hesperus Lodge No. 837 Free & Accepted Masons, where donated items were taken for sorting and packing. Organized by Dick Sands, the Masons and employees from both the Byron-Bergen Elementary and
Jr./Sr. High schools, Board of Education members, and community volunteers pitched in to help. More school volunteers help deliver over 100 food baskets and gifts before the holidays.

“The magic of this special season is the community spirit it inspires in so many of us,” said District Superintendent Mickey Edwards. “I am so proud of the generosity shown by all of our students and by everyone in our schools.”

A big part of the program’s success this year was the contribution made by the Varsity Club Holiday Food Drive. Student athletes from the high school winter sports teams pulled together to collect almost 600 non-perishable food items. Each year, the teams take part in a friendly competition to collect the
most food items. Congratulations to the Boys’ Basketball team for their generous contribution to this year’s Holiday
Community Service Program.

“ The magic of this special season

is the community spirit it inspires

in so many of us. I am so proud

of the generosity shown by all of

our students and by everyone in our schools”

- District Superintendent Mickey Edwards

Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame

Byron-Bergen Central School District is once again sponsoring an Alumni Hall of Fame, an initiative that started 15 years ago to provide our students with positive role models and to challenge their imaginations. The Hall of Fame recognizes the accomplishments of graduates of the Byron-Bergen School District or its component schools before consolidation.

The Hall of Fame is housed in the Jr./Sr. High School adjacent to the auditorium and consists of plaques
honoring the inductees and their

accomplishments. An induction ceremony and reception for new inductees will
be held in the 2020-21 school year. Note: The 2019-20 Alumni Hall of Fame recipients will be recognized at the Byron-Bergen National Senior Honor Society Induction on April 15, 2020 at 6:30 PM in the Jr./Sr. High Auditorium. This year’s inductees are Teresa Kowalczyk (Class of 1970) and Tamantha Menzie (Class of 1984.)

The nomination form (on page15) needs to be returned to Patty Gunio, Secretary
to the Superintendent, by the first

Monday in April. Nominations will remain active for three years after submittal and nominees must have graduated at least fifteen (15) years ago. Up to four Hall
of Fame inductees will be selected this year.

Consider nominating a worthy graduate of our system. By doing so, you honor the accomplishments of Byron-Bergen Alumni and provide our students
with positive role models through the personification of the outcomes provided
by solid educational preparation.

14 | FOCAL POINT

Byron-Bergen Central School District Alumni Hall of Fame Nomination Form

Nominee Information: Please provide the below information about the person you wish to recommend for the Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame.

Name: _______________________________________________________________ Year of Graduation: _________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street	City	State	Zip Code

Home Phone #: (____) ________________________	Work or Cell Phone #: (____) ________________________________

Is Nominee: 0living	0deceased

Briefly describe those achievements, accomplishments or contributions that cause you to nominate the individual named above for Alumni Hall of Fame recognition. You may add additional pages, newspaper clippings, or other supporting evidence if you so desire. Please include accomplishments in the following areas:

• School Contributions/Activities while at Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School

• Subsequent Contributions to Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School

• Educational Achievements

• Job Related Achievements

• Professional Honors and Awards

• Professional Afiliations

• Community/Civic Involvement

• Other

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If possible, please list other people to serve as resources for Byron-Bergen staff to research additional Nominee information:

Name: ____________________________________________ Daytime Phone #: (____)________________________________

Name: ____________________________________________ Daytime Phone #: (____)________________________________

Person Submitting Nomination:

Name: ____________________________________________ Daytime Phone #: (____)________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street	City	State	Zip Code

Please return this completed form by the annual nomination deadline (first Monday in April) to:

Byron-Bergen Central School District District Ofice - Attn.: P. Gunio
6917 West Bergen Road • Bergen, NY 14416

WINTER 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

Byron-Bergen School District 2020 Voter Information

Board of Education Petitions Available “Notice is hereby given to elect three members of the Board of Education to 3-year terms to begin on July 1, 2020 and

expire on June 30, 2023 to succeed Tammy Menzie and Amy Phillips whose terms expire on June 30, 2020. Board of
Education petitions will be available for pickup with the District Clerk in the District Ofice starting March 2, 2020, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 3 PM.

To run for the Board of Education, you must be a citizen of the United States, a resident of the District for 30 days preceding the vote, and at least 18 years of age. In order to be placed on the ballot, potential candidates must return a petition with a minimum of 25 signatures of District resident voters and return the petition to Rachel Stevens, District Clerk, by 3:00 PM on Tuesday, April 14, 2020. Petitions are available in the District Ofice and questions on this process can be directed to Mrs. Stevens by calling 494-1220, ext. 2529.

Thursday, March 5, 2020
7:00 PM – Professional Development Room Draft Budget reviewed with Public Input Opportunity

Tuesday, April 14, 2020 Board Candidate Petitions due to the
District Clerk by 3:00 PM

Absentee Ballots

Applications for Absentee Ballots will be available from the District Clerk on Monday, April 27, 2020. If an application needs to be mailed to the voter, the Clerk must receive the completed request form no later than 3:00 PM on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Call (585) 494-1220, ext. 2529, with questions.

April-May 2020

Budget presentations to public groups

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Public Budget Presentation & Meet the Board Candidates 7:00 PM - Jr./Sr. Auditorium

Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Budget Vote and Board Candidate Election 12 PM to 9:00 PM
High School Wrestling/Fitness Room

Thursday, April 2, 2020

7:00 PM – Elementary School Cafeteria Budget presented to Board of Education for adoption.

16 | FOCAL POINT