Byron-Bergen Central School District

									

			

Spring 2015	w w w.bbschools.org Superintendent’s Message

Dear Byron-Bergen Community	with 35 individuals who represented Members,	every facet of the Byron-Bergen
It is great to have everyone back
Framework Committee reviewed t
learning community.This Strategic
has passed quickly. I am so proud
Thank you for everyone’s hard wo
goal is to present the new plan to
later this year.
at school.The first half of the year	feedback and set priority areas and he of the achievement and vibrancy	a framework for the new plan. Our that is taking place in our schools.rk,	the Board of Education for adoption collaboration, and commitment to
nurture our students.
our mission to challenge, engage, and	(l-r) Superintendent Casey Kosiorek, Music	School Funding
Teacher Bob Lancia, Social Studies Teacher	Since November, we have been in the
Board of Education and staff as we
NYS District of Character Education	Ken Gropp, student Danielle Foeller, and	process of developing the 2015-2016 I’m pleased to announce that the	community member and parent Sonya	operational budget. I commend the
has been named a New York State
New York State Character Education
the budget constraints. I thank our
Framework Team who met on Jan. 30
Byron-Bergen Central School District	Catalino are a few members of the Strategic	continue to provide the best possible District of Character Education by the	to begin the process of developing a new	education for our students within
Academy. Through this process,
past spending plans.
Strategic Plan for Byron-Bergen CSD.	community for valuing the education districts that demonstrate excellence	of our young people and supporting in character education, as measured
We are always seeking your input on the budget process. If
by the 11 Principles of Effective Character Education, are
at the state and national level.A team from the Academy
well-deserved honor.
our website, or stop by the District Office to pick up a hard
considered for this award.All applications are reviewed	you have not had the opportunity to provide your thoughts, conducted a site visit before the final decision was made.	please take a moment to take the online survey located on Congratulations to our students, staff, and families for this	copy. I also encourage you to visit our budget information
website by visiting www.bbschools.org and then clicking New Strategic Plan	on “Budget Information.”(continued on p. 3)

The District continues to move forward with the development of the new Strategic Plan.Thank you to all who have participated in the surveys and met with me in person to discuss the future of the District. Please visit our website if you are interested in the survey results.Thirty community members/parents attended our Strategic Planning forum in October of 2014, and 11 community members participated in our online survey. Sixty-two
staff members, 398 students, and 103 parents shared their thoughts via the online survey, and the Board of Education, administration, department leaders, and Union leaders had an opportunity to communicate their thoughts through
a survey and in-person meetings. On January 30, we met

Byron-Bergen School Musical The Wizard of Oz

arch 5, 6, & 7 • 7:00 p.m.

/Sr. High School Auditorium

Board President’s Corner

Happy spring! I hope that everyone’s holidays were nice and that your New Year started well. During that busy season, I hope you were able to take in one or two band or chorus concerts that our students performed in.They were all awesome and a treat to listen to. If you weren’t able to attend, please consider coming out to this year’s school musical,“The Wizard of Oz.” It will be a fantastic production that showcases our many talented students, both on stage and behind-the-scenes.

Congratulations to all the fall and winter athletes and coaches for the success of their seasons.We are proud of our Robotics Team and the hard work they have put into their competitions.The Elementary School continues to be a busy place, so please check the Byron-Bergen website calendar for upcoming student events.

In the fall, the Board of Education was represented at the annual School Boards Convention where our voices were heard on propositions statewide through
the voting process.We had the opportunity to present our SOAR (Sharing Opportunities and Resources) Initiative. It was well-received and produced many follow-up questions.We are hopeful that other districts will be able to do something similar for their students.

Congratulations to everyone in the Byron-Bergen Central School District for helping us to become a New York State School District of Character Education. Superintendent Kosiorek will be
accepting this award on behalf of the District in April.

The Board is currently working on next year’s budget and hopes for some good news out of Albany this year. If you would like more information about the proposed budget, please attend a Board of Education meeting.A Draft Budget will be reviewed, with public input opportunity, at the March 26 meeting. Thank you for your continued support of our students and the District.

STAR Exemption
Byron-Bergen Central School District reminds you to make sure you are receiving the STAR exemption if you qualify. You can check your most recent school tax bill to be sure you received the exemption in 2014.The STAR exemption includes two programs; one for those under age 65 (STAR Basic) and one for those 65 and older (STAR Enhanced) in the calendar year 2015.

If you are a new property owner, to receive the STAR exemption you have to apply with the town assessor by March 2, 2015.This must be your primary residence and you cannot receive property tax exemptions anywhere else.

New 2015 STAR Basic recipients will receive a letter from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. You must reapply with the state by Dec. 31, 2015, to continue receiving STAR Basic.

If you previously qualified for the Senior Citizen’s Exemption (another program) you cannot automatically renew your STAR Enhanced.To receive STAR Enhanced, an owner must be 65 years old in the calendar year, have an income of less than $83,300 and submit an application by March 2, 2015, with a copy of your 2013 income tax return. If someone
does not qualify for STAR Enhanced due to their income level, they will default to STAR Basic.The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance notifies the assessor.

STAR Enhanced recipients are required to verify their income every year.This can be done by submitting the proper renewal form and income information to the town assessor. Some people are able to reapply automatically by signing a form which allows the assessor to enter your Social Security number with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.You have to be filing New York State Income Tax returns in order to do the automatic renewal.

Please contact your town assessor if you have questions regarding ProPerty tax exemPtions:

Batavia	Elba
Rhonda Saulsbury                      Barry Flansburg (585) 343-1729 ext. 207             (585) 757-2461

Bergen	LeRoy
Anne Sapienza	Rhonda Saulsbury (585) 494-1484	(585) 768-6910 ext. 221

Debra List

Debra List, President
Byron-Bergen Board of Education

Byron
Barry Flansburg
(585) 548-7123 ext. 17

Clarendon Cindi Davis
(585) 638-6371 ext. 103

Riga
Lori Frongetta
(585) 293-1124 ext. 126

Stafford Anne Sapienza
(585) 344-1554 ext. 6

2     Byron-Bergen Central School District

Spring 2015 (continued from cover)

Superintendent’s Message

This page will provide you with past budgets and other valuable information about the upcoming budget, as well as contact information for our politicians. It will be updated on a regular basis for your convenience.

Pre-Merger Study with LeRoy Central School District

The Byron-Bergen and LeRoy Central School Districts have decided to undertake a merger feasibility study.This merger feasibility study will explore the possible reorganization
of the two study districts to determine if there is potential promise for merging prior to these districts potentially engaging in an extensive merger study.This feasibility study is not a formal merger study.

Alan Pole of Castallo and Silky Education Consultants in Syracuse is the lead consultant for the study. The consultants have requested a substantial amount of information from both school districts.When the study is completed, a joint presentation to the two Boards of Education will be made. The Boards of Education will then decide whether or not they wish to pursue a formal merger study.

Areas of Study

The following will be examined in this merger feasibility study:

A. Background descriptions.The history and background of the school districts will be reviewed.
B. History and projections of student enrollments.A cohort survival projection of enrollments of both districts, as well as the possible merged district, will be provided.
C. Curricular program offerings.An overview of the academic programs for both districts will be provided. Possible program implications for merger will be discussed.
D. Extra-curricular offerings.An overview of the extra-curricular programs for both districts will be provided. Possible implications for merger will be discussed.
E. Facilities.The school buildings in the districts will be assessed in terms of their current use, practical capacity, and implications for possible merger.
F. Transportation.The current student transportation policies and practices will be reviewed. Implications for possible merger will also be discussed.
G. Staffing.The administrative staffing patterns of the current districts will be assessed. In addition, estimates will be provided as to the cost of leveling up teacher salaries for a potentially merged district.
H. Employee contracts.All employee contracts will be reviewed and analyzed for implications of possible merger.

I. Finances.An overview of the financial ramifications of a possible merger will be analyzed. Past community support for school budgets will be analyzed. Merger incentive operating aid and potential tax rate data will
be analyzed for a potential merger. Debt service will be reviewed for each district and the possible implications for merger will be discussed.
J.	Timelines and processes associated with merger.This study will present information about the merger process should the districts decide to pursue a formal merger study.

Timeline

• July 2014 — Boards passed resolution to undertake merger feasibility study.

• August 2014 — Consultants requested information from the school districts.

• September 2014 — Districts provided requested information to consultants.

• October 2014 — Study began.

• January 2015 — Consultants met with school district officials.

• June 2015 — Study will be presented to joint session of Boards of Education.

On behalf of the Board of Education, the administration, and the staff, I want to thank you for your continued support of the education of our students. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call me at 494-1220 ext. 2829, or email me at ckosiorek@bbschools.org.

NEW STRATEGIC PLAN NAMING CONTEST

CALLING ALL STUDENTS, PARENTS, STAFF, AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS…

Byron-Bergen Central School District values your input and is requesting your help in naming our new Strategic Plan.

To enter, simply email your idea to Patty Gunio at pgunio@bbschools.org by March 31, 2015. (Please enter “Naming Contest” in the subject line.)

The new Strategic Plan name chosen from the entries submitted by the deadline will win a $50 gift certificate to Fullerino’s!

Home of the Bees	3

What does it take to be a memberof the Board of Education?

Our school board members are dedicated volunteers who oversee and manage our school district, ensuring that we continually raise the educational bar to benefit our students and remain responsive to the needs of our community.As we prepare for the submission of new BOE Candidate Petitions,

What is the realistic time commitment a board member has to be ready to make?

Daniel Ireland: Although there are two regularly scheduled meetings a month, there are usually several additional committee meetings at the district and building level.

Amy Phillips:There are different conferences and local meetings, like the upcoming Legislative Breakfast in Geneseo.We also try to attend as many school functions as possible, which is very enjoyable!

Daniel Ireland: School functions are an opportunity to meet with parents and hear feedback, witness interactions with teachers and students, and see the facility condition. All of these things play an important role when discussing matters at the board meetings.

Jenn VanValkenburg: A realistic time commitment is approximately 10-20 hours a month, including BOE meeting times, committee meetings, reading and preparation, and other miscellaneous events.

How do you stay on top of all the developments in education and in the District?

Tammy Menzie: I read the District newsletter and the monthly School Board newspaper. I listen to and watch news about developments in education. I am a teacher and receive mail and emails constantly about what is happening with education — statewide and locally.There is so much to take in and so many changes happening. It can be overwhelming. I try to attend many school and community functions as well.

Jenn VanValkenburg: I am a teacher at a different district. I stay current with the issues in education because I am surrounded by them every day. Communication with Byron-Bergen’s Superintendent Casey Kosiorek is how we stay on top of specific District developments.

Daniel Ireland: The NYS School Board Association provides excellent email resources to keep up-to-
date on developments in education. Most importantly, Superintendent Kosiorek always keeps us in the loop, not just on issues but on development opportunities.

it seems the perfect time to connect with several of our board members and learn what is really involved in the job. We spoke with Vice President Daniel Ireland and Trustees Tammy Menzie,Amy Phillips, and Jennifer VanValkenburg.

How do you build consensus with other members, with teachers and staff,with community members?

Daniel Ireland: Great communication. Superintendent Kosiorek calls it “checking in” and we do it at all levels — asking questions, listening, and confirming what has been heard.This opens a dialog with other parties and develops trust and understanding.With trust and understanding, consensus is easier to achieve.

Amy Phillips: Consensus can best best be achieved by listening, being objective, and thinking from multiple perspectives.

Tammy Menzie: I believe Byron-Bergen tries very hard to make all parties feel that they are valuable members in our learning community.There have been surveys across all levels — students, parents, faculty, board members, administrators, and more.We have had team building events and I have tried to get to know people on a more personal level.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a board member?

Tammy Menzie: I have been a parent of students in the District for more than 20 years.This new avenue — as a board member — is allowing me to see the school in a new way.

Jenn VanValkenburg: Knowing you are making an impact on students. It’s great when you see first-hand the wonderful things that are going on in our schools, like hearing about the process of making yogurt our State snack from the kids who made it happen.

Amy Phillips: To feel like you are part of a very important decision-making process, and that the community chose you to represent them.

Daniel Ireland: To see our students grow and mature and succeed.As a board member, you are witness to great accomplishments as they are occurring; i.e., the Spelling or Geography Bees and concert events.To watch our musical program put on a performance that rivals the professionals is a wonderful and rewarding thing. Get into this because you love learning, and want the best for all students.

4     Byron-Bergen Central School District

a state leader in finding efficiencies
Board President Debra List, past BOE
Kosiorek.“On our own, we may not
“We were asked to present at NYSSBA
of SOAR.There are many moving
Byron-Bergen began small in 2007,
(GPAs), and more enthusiasm and
Bergen is staying on the frontlines of
Spring 2015

Running for the school board

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 the school board.We are looking for folks who will always be focused on the good of schoolchildren, and who are:

• Effective communicators • Consensus builders
• Community participants

• Leaders and decision-makers • Information processors
• Team players

You will find information on eligibility requirements, job responsibilities, campaign process and training on
our website at http://www. bbschools.org/pages/Byron-Bergen_Central_Schools/BOE.

Board candidate petitions can be obtained from the District Clerk Jadwiga Syfert in the District Office. They must be returned by April 21, 2015, no later than 3:30 p.m.

Small districts can still offer big opportunities

You might call Byron-Bergen Central School District the mouse who roared — or rather, SOARed. By using Shared Opportunities and Resources (SOAR), more doors are opening for our students. Over the past seven years, BBCSD has proven that out-of-the-box thinking
and partnerships with neighboring small districts can ensure our kids have the same opportunities as those in larger districts. Now we’re leading the way for other districts in the state.

Our success with SOAR has been so
football and track & field teams. F om
neighboring district Elba to field varsity impressive that Byron-Bergen has become	that first experience, it has createdrtrue
and providing opportunities. School
consolidated teams — wrestling, baseball, football, football cheerleading, soccer,
swimming with LeRoy.
President and Genesee Valley Educational	trap & skeet, and indoor track with Elba; Partnership BOCES trustee Ernie
Kosiorek were recently invited to share
our journey with SOAR at the New
York State School Boards (NYSSBA)
Conference in New York City.
Haywood, and Superintendent Casey	By consolidating teams, the District is able to offer more opportunities, attract and keep highly-qualified coaches, and guarantee long-term survival of our programs.“Right now about 75 percent
Kosiorek.
“There are many smaller districts like	of our sports teams are consolidated,” says Byron-Bergen all around the state,” says

the Advanced Placement (AP) courses,
sports. Byron-Bergen has seen better
have the resources to offer a full range of	SOAR results go beyond the field of sports and extracurricular activities, or all	overall attendance from more engaged or other academic or arts programs that	students, higher grade point averages
power is in working together — that
is where our own SOAR success story
starts.”
should be available for students. But our	participation throughout the school since that first consolidated football team was formed. Says Kosiorek,“In our planning process, everything always begins with ‘What’s best for our kids?’That determines
because of our wide-ranging experience	our destination and our path to get there.” with the most cutting-edge elements	Next on the drawing board? Byron-

communicating SOAR implementation.
We are happy to share our knowledge to
make it easier for other districts to also
find success.”
parts to planning, coordinating, and	innovation.“We’re looking at ways to offer more extracurricular activities and clubs, like robotics,” says Kosiorek.“We’re exploring options for sharing staff, along with resources for academic programs.We are always open to new ideas for providing
in response to funding restrictions	additional opportunities for our students.” and budget cuts.They partnered with

Home of the Bees	5

	
s b

V

w

Y y H H
	by Todd Sloat, choreography by Sandy Auer and Tallman,
y Ken Rogoyski.

The Wizard of Oz” (RSC ersion) is presented with
ermission, and in arrangement ith,Tams-Witmark Music Library,
nc., 560 Lexington Avenue, New ork, NY 10022.The music and rics are by Harold Arlen and E.Y.
arburg, with additional music by erbert Stothart.

	

We’re off to see the Wizard! Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School is proud to present “The Wizard of Oz” as our 2015 musical.

Itwill be presented on March 5, 6, and 7, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.
in the Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School auditorium

Tickets will be available at a cost of $8.00 ($7.00 for senior citizens and students)

This musical is based on both the original book by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 motion picture, which was adapted by John Kane. It features all the familiar characters trying to get to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard of Oz and obtain their hearts’ desires, while avoiding the perils of the Wicked Witch of the West.

The show stays very close to the original movie, and features
delightful choreography, wonderful acting and singing, some technical wizardry (no pun intended!), dazzling costumes and set pieces, and a marvelous orchestra.

Featured performers include • Celeste Brownell (Dorothy)
• Sean Donovan (Scarecrow), • Colby Savage (Tin Man)
• Andrew Sczepanski (Cowardly Lion)

• Emily Bowman (the Wicked Witch)

• Nathan McCarthy (the Wizard of Oz)

• and a cast,crew and orchestra of over 70 students, with cameos by the faculty and administration.

The show is directed, both dramatically and musically, by Laurence Tallman, and features costumes by Faline

6     Byron-Bergen Central School District

Spring 2015 Jr./Sr. High School Update

STEM (which stands for Science,	narrow down their interests Technology, Engineering,	to two college and career and Math) is currently one of	pathways by their sophomore the hottest college and career	year.This will help them pathways receiving a great deal of	to work with our teachers attention at the state and national	and staff to better align their levels. For 2015, the Federal	coursework with their future budget includes a proposition	interests, resulting in greater that earmarks $170 million to	feelings of motivation and train the next generation of	commitment. More highly
STEM innovators. In our High	motivated, committed students School, students have already	equal higher rates of academic begun realizing the benefits of	success.
of the new WNY Tech Academy
an exceptional example of
this initiative with the availability	Jr./Sr. High School Principal Aaron Johnson with members	The Byron-Bergen High academic offerings. Beginning	of the “Bee Awesome” Robotics Team: Celia Mercovich,           School Robotics Team provides
students who have recognized
this past summer, a number of our	Josh Phelps, Josh Bush, Nate McCarthy, Jacob Burlingame,
their college and career vision.
These students are taking an
freshman students committed to this Ben Chaback, Dan Jensen, Clare Fraser, and Nick Kelly. Academy and started their journey

active role in applying these
towards earning a free Associate in
in one of three STEM-related career pathways:Accounting,
Food Processing, and Supply Chain Management. Programs
Applied Science degree from Genesee Community College	interests in a way that shapes their abilities to think critically to solve problems. Over the past few months, nine members of the
with High School Technology Teacher Rich Walker and with
sponsors from Liberty Pumps to design an 18-cubic-inch
like this are exciting news for education and for the future	“Bee Awesome” Robotics Team have been diligently working of our students. In New York State, people who work in a
85 percent higher than all other NYS workers combined, who
and Technology) Tech Challenge. Their robot masterfully
STEM-related field earn an average salary of $74,520.This is         freestanding robot.Together, they are competing in the STEM-earn an average annual income of $40,390 (labor.ny.gov, 2015).      related US FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science

For more information on the WNY Tech Academy, STEM
child’s school guidance counselor.
They took fi st place in the Alliance Championship at St. Joh
Education, or college/career exploration, please contact your	executed therdemands of this year’s unique challenge course. n Fisher College on December 14,2014.This victory earned
Your youngster’s future is important — your time spent	them a spot at the Empire NY Regional FTC Championship together exploring and investigating college and career	at Pace University on Feb. 8, 2015.We congratulate them on pathways is time well-spent. Our goal is to help every student	their hard work!

Vice President Dan Ireland receives NYSSBA Board Mastery Award

The New York State School Board Association’s (NYSSBA) School Board U Recognition Program honors school board members who strive to expand

Vice President Dan Ireland
is presented with a certificate
their governance knowledge and
skills through continuous training	Byron-Bergen Board of Education and developmental activities.We
achieved the NYSSBA Board
Mastery Award.
congratulate Dan Ireland for having	recognizing his work with School Board University by Superintendent Casey Kosiorek.

Home of the Bees	7

Byron-Bergen 2014-15 First Quarter Honor Roll

GRADE 12
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Michaela Austin, Ashley Bates, Emily Bowman, Colleen Clay, Sarah Clay, Sean Donovan, Makayla Fee, Danielle Foeller, Luke Hollenbeck, Rebekah Ireland,Abigail Kelley, Nicholas Kelly, Michaela Kenward, Sara Kota,Adrian Lambert, Jacob Lovelace, Lindsey Lovett, Gerald Menzie, Samantha Morgante, Catherine Nagel,Abigail Noeth, Jacob Rada, Katelyn Simmons, Brette-Morgan Snyder, Christine Stevens, Sadie Vincent, Samantha Walker,Melissa Watson,Melinda Wells. HONOR ROLL: Alex Beam,Tyler Benda, Jeremy Boeff, Jordan Coffta, Emily DuBois, Chance Edmonds, Jeremy Fink, Ryan Leo, Michelle Lovett, Nathaniel McCarthy, Joseph Miraglia, Nicola Pellacani, Lopez Perez, Rebecca Phelps,Allison Richardson, Jacob Scroger, Andrew Sczepanski, Zackary Seeley, Michael Shanley, Jordan Sloat, Leah Stamp, Samantha Stumpf, Olivia Sweet, Joseph Volasquez, Rachel Wannike,Nicholas Warriner.
EFFORT ROLL: Emily Bowman, Colleen Clay, Sarah Clay, Sean Donovan, Makayla Fee, Jeremy Fink, Danielle Foeller, Luke Hollenbeck, Rebekah Ireland,Abigail Kelley, Nicholas Kelly, Michaela Kenward, Sara Kota,Adrian Lambert, Jacob Lovelace, Lindsey Lovett, Gerald Menzie, Joseph Miraglia, Samantha Morgante, Catherine Nagel,Abigail Noeth, Nicola Pellacani, Jacob Rada, Bethann Rethlake, Jacob Scroger, Katelyn Simmons, Sadie Vincent, Samantha Walker, Rachel Wannike,Nicholas Warriner,Melissa Watson,Melinda Wells.

GRADE 11
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Merrisa Bohn, Bethany Ezard,Aaries Fitzsimmons, Brittany Goebel, Lauren Graney, Kaitlyn Harder,Ana Hubbard, Cora Ivison,Taylor McPherson,Ashley Montgomery,Allie Moyer, Esther Musiyevich, Brandon Reiner, Alexandria Rosse, Alexa Strzelecki,Robert Thompson.
HONOR ROLL: Alicyn Bizari, Marquis Brown,Aaron Buckland, Leah Catalino, Heather Countryman,Andrew DiQuattro, Samantha Donnelly, Rider Farnsworth, Julia Hahn, Ethan Hall,Tyler Kota,Allison Kropf, Lindsay Ladley, Thomas Lambert, Joelle Meister,Vitorrio Muoio, Jacob Petote, Jacob Prospero, Colby Savage, Andrew Wolfe,Savannah Wolfe,Aurora Zinter. EFFORT ROLL: Merrisa Bohn, Bethany Ezard,Aaries Fitzsimmons, Brittany Goebel, Lauren Graney, Julia Hahn, Ethan Hall, Kaitlyn Harder,Ana Hubbard, Cora Ivison,Allison Kropf,Taylor McPherson,Ashley Montgomery, Allie Moyer, Esther Musiyevich,Alexandria Rosse,Alexa Strzelecki, Robert Thompson, Andrew Wolfe.

GRADE 10
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Olivia Audsley, Kerri Bates, Rose Bower, Lindsey Bowman, Dillon Brew, Brandon Burke, Reanne Dressler, Marlaina Fee, Clare Fraser, Hailey Hubbard, Alexandria Loewke, Kelsey Maurer, Celia Mercovich, Grace Pulcini, Brittany Rada, Brandon Shade,Adam Walter, Michael Zwerka. HONOR ROLL: Dominick Andres,Grace Campbell, Russell Cunningham, Chase Felton, Mackenzie Fox, Ryan Gonyea, Jessica Holley, Kitana Maher, Shawn Merry, Ryan Richardson, Karson Richenberg, Mary Sweeney, Destanee Zastrow.
EFFORT ROLL: Olivia Audsley, Kerri Bates, Rose Bower, Lindsey Bowman, Dillon Brew, Brandon Burke, Grace Campbell, Russell
Cunningham, Reanne Dressler, Mackenzie Fox, Clare Fraser, Hailey Hubbard, Shannon Little, Kitana Maher, Kelsey Maurer, Celia Mercovich, Shawn Merry, Grace Pulcini, Brittany Rada, Ryan Richardson, Brandon Shade,Adam Walter, Michael Zwerka.

GRADE 9
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Larissa Ashton, Cameron Brumsted, Catherine Brumsted, Lauren Burke, Benjamin Chaback, Kylar Chambry, Quinn Chapell, Cynthia Clay, Brionna DeMichel, Jean Denson,Timothy Ellsworth, Morgan Fuller, Margaret Graney, Justin Hannan, Tyler Henry,Alyssa Hing, Brian Ireland, Brendon Kendall, Melanie Kulikowski, Peyton Mackey, Lily Mercovich, Joshua Phelps,Tapanga Schramm,Austin Sharpe, Leah Thompson, Chaderic Toal, Dana VanValkenburg, Esther Wilkins.
HONOR ROLL: Jennifer Brew, Megan Brown, Jessica Fleming, Noah Gunther, Hayley Hoehn, Daniel Jensen, Nathan Knickerbocker, Jonathan Lathan, Julia Menzie, Makenzie Muoio, Riley Sadler,Adam Swapceinski, Nicole Welka. EFFORT ROLL: Larissa Ashton, Megan Brown, Cameron Brumsted, Lauren Burke, Benjamin Chaback, Kylar Chambry, Quinn Chapell, Cynthia Clay, Brionna DeMichel,
Jean Denson, Morgan Fuller, Margaret Graney, Justin Hannan,Tyler Henry, Hayley Hoehn, Brian Ireland, Brendon Kendall, Nathan Knickerbocker, Melanie Kulikowski, Peyton Mackey, Julia Menzie, Lily Mercovich, Makenzie Muoio, Joshua Phelps, Garrett Sando,Tapanga Schramm, Austin Sharpe, Adam Swapceinski, Leah Thompson,Chaderic Toal,Dana VanValkenburg.

GRADE 8
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Sarah Bleiler, Kolbi Brew, Stephanie Buell, Dante Bzduch-Clark, Lydia Campbell, Zachary Cocking, Ryan Cooper, Colin Davis,Anthony DiQuattro,Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe,Tabitha Fuller, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman,Annaliese Hersom, Donna Hinckley, Jason Hoehn,William Johnson, Oliver Kelley, Hunter Leach, Rayelle Merrell, Kevin Paasch, Erin Parnapy, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Emma Smith, Wade Thompson,Kyong-ae Yun.
HONOR ROLL: Casey Abdella, Cory Bater, Cole Carlson, Michael Caruso,Alissa Countryman, Mariah Fee, Rebecca Johnson, Isaac Ladley, Janae Meister, James Roggow. EFFORT ROLL: Sarah Bleiler, Kolbi Brew, Dante Bzduch-Clark, Cole Carlson, Zachary Cocking, Ryan Cooper,Alissa Countryman, Anthony DiQuattro,Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman,Annaliese
Hersom, Donna Hinckley, Jason Hoehn,William Johnson, Oliver Kelley, Hunter Leach, Rayelle Merrell, Kevin Paasch, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Emma Smith.

GRADE 7
HIGH HONOR ROLL: Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Cole Bergeron, Megan Bogue, Alexander Brumsted, Elizabeth Burlingame, Dominick Butz, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino,Alexander Dean, Elizabeth Donnelly, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara
Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Chad Green,Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Rick Hubbard, Mikaela Hubler, Connor Kaminski, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer,Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie, Samuel Pringle, Kyle Schramm,Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Hannah Seppe, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Kevin Smith, Peter Smith, Garrett Swinter, Hannah VanSkiver,Annabella Vurraro,Grant Williams, Braeden Zimmerman, Nathan Zwerka. HONOR ROLL: Jacey Donahue, Emily Gonyea, Coltin Henry, Dominic Herrmann, Rose Hubbard, Emily Kaczmarek, Justice Towne, Bryce Walker,Austin White,Bryce Yockel. EFFORT ROLL: Caitlin Ashton,Cole Bergeron, Megan Bogue,Alexander Brumsted, Elizabeth Burlingame, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino,Alexander Dean, Jacey Donahue, Elizabeth Donnelly, Madison Farnsworth, Sara Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Chad Green,Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Coltin Henry, Rick Hubbard, Cambria Kinkelaar, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie,Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Peter Smith, Garrett Swinter, Hannah VanSkiver, Annabella Vurraro, Grant Williams, Braeden Zimmerman, Nathan Zwerka.

8     Byron-Bergen Central School District

Jr. High Geography Bee champion Peyton Armison (r) with
runner-up Sarah Bleiler.
Spring 2015

Students are busy with Bees

These spelling and geography Bees have been as closely contested and spirited as any competitions on the sports field, and we’re just as proud of the triumphant winners.

The 2015 National Geographic Geography Bee for grades 4-6:The 29 Byron-Bergen Bee participants
qualified with high scores on a written test in December. The champion, sixth-grader Joshua Fleming, battled through eight tie-breaking questions to best fifth-grader Corden Zimmerman.

The 2015 National Geographic Geography Bee for Junior High:A tough qualifying test narrowed the field to 28 participants.Two knowledgeable students made it to the Championship round: eighth-graders Peyton Armison and Sarah Bleiler. Congratulations to the ultimate winner, Peyton Armison, who received a medal from the National Geographic Society.

The annual Robert Fowler/Byron-Bergen Junior High School and Buffalo Evening News Spelling Bee, in association with the Scripps National Spelling Bee: The 27 students from grades 6-8 who were invited to
participate in the local Byron-Bergen Bee spelled impressively, but after seven rounds, eighth-grader Will Johnson was named the winner, with seventh-grader Bryce Walker as runner-up.

Jr. High Geography Bee champion Peyton Armison
(r) with runner-up Sarah Bleiler.

Byron-Bergen Elementary School Geography Bee champion, sixth grader Joshua Fleming.

Byron-Bergen Spelling Bee victor Will Johnson and runner-up Bryce Walker.

Jr./Sr. High School Scholar Program

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 each year, monetary awards are presented at Academic Awards 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 2014-15 first quarter recipients:

GOLD SCHOLAR Sarah Bleiler Merrisa Bohn Alex Brumsted
Cameron Brumsted Elizabeth Burlingame Dante Bzduch Siomara Caballero Hannah Catalino Colleen Clay Sarah Clay Zachary Cocking

Alexander Dean Adam Drake Clare Fraser Sara Fraser Makayla Fee Leah Gale Brittany Goebel
Emma Goodman Chad Green Amaya Gunther Kaitlyn Harder Tyler Henry Hailey Hubbard

Cora Ivison Oliver Kelley Michaela Kenward
Cambria Kinkelaar Sara Kota
Melanie Kulikowski Travis Lambert Hunter Leach Melissa MacCowan Celia Mercovich Rayelle Merrell Ashley Montgomery Catherine Nagel

Abigail Noeth Sabastian Pawlukewicz Grace Pulcini Brittany Rada Jacob Rada Mackenzie Rosse
Auburn Schwartzmeyer Chloe Shuskey Katelyn Simmons Chad Toal
Dana VanValkenburg Annabella Vurraro Samantha Walker

Adam Walter Melissa Watson Michael Zwerka Nathan Zwerka

SILVER SCHOLAR Kolbi Brew Lydia Campbell Cynthia Clay
Brionna DeMichel Danielle Foeller Morgan Fuller

Hayley Hoehn Brandon Reiner Zackary Seeley

BRONZE SCHOLAR
Nathan Knickerbocker Garrett Sando Adam Swapceinski

Home of the Bees	9

Elementary School News

These past few months have been	friendly challenge. Each school is using filled with excitement and learning	the website Xtramath.com to help
as we challenge, engage, and nurture.	students practice their math facts. For Here at Byron-Bergen Elementary	the next four months, each school will School, we believe that literacy is at the	work towards mastering as many facts heart of student success. Our faculty is	as possible.The school with the highest committed to fostering a love of reading	percentage of “masters” wins.The
in every student. Last month we held	“losing” Principal has agreed to wear the our second annual Reading Celebration.	other school’s mascot costume for a few Our school-wide assembly program	fun photos at the end of the year. If you featured live skits, an interactive game	have a little one at home, keep practicing
our school. Please take a moment to
show, and was highlighted by a video	Principal Brian Meister congratulates	those facts.We’d love to see our Bee starring the students and staff from	students who have been chosen as Leader       walking the halls of O-A. Go Bees!

watch our viral video at:http://youtu.
be/mnYarvXIWpM?list=UUW0Swz_
GrgiGKYOkEy9Gccw. It has already
Bees: (front, l-r) Mace Tyson, Kendal	Byron-Bergen Elementary School values Chase,Audrey Dorman, Sophia Crocker,	kindness and compassion.We teach these Michael Holley, Luke Smith, Jack Farner:	important concepts throughout our
Leader In Me and Olweus Programs.
This year we are proud to support a
had 2,755 hits as I write this article.	(back, l-r) Lincoln McGrath, Nathan	school day and specifically, through our The program culminated with a new	Parsons, Peyton Goodenbery, McKenna
staff can read 20,000 books by the end
whose m ssion is to teach and promo
challenge for 2015: If the students and	Shuskey, and Madelynn Pimm.	student-supported Lighthouse Team
and I will wear suits made from duct tape and allow the
students to tape us to a wall.The kids are well on their way to
their reading goal, so stay tuned for updates along the way.
of the school year, my Assistant Principal	the Seven Habits of Leadership ifound within the Leader Inte Me program.This past month, teams of fifth-and-sixth-grade students planned and presented lessons to all classrooms within our building. It was amazing to see our young leaders teaching
As always, I would like to thank our community, parents, and
Not to be outdone, our Mathematics Team is hard at work	good character to our littlest friends. helping students become excellent problem solvers. In addition
on various math websites and apps using their new LearnPads
email at bmeister@bbschools.org.
to their daily instruction, our students work independently	friends for their continued support of our school. If you have and at home on computers.We are excited to announce that	any questions, please contact me at 494-1220 ext. 1005, or by Oakfield-Alabama Elementary School has joined us in a

Our inspired bakers learn life skills and the satisfaction of sharing with others

Teach a child to bake bread and they will learn how to read a recipe, about math and measurement, about science and fermentation. If they are like the lucky young bakers at Byron-Bergen Elementary, they may also learn about sharing and helping others.

These fifth-and-sixth graders recently participated in the Bake for Good Program, a nationwide initiative from King Arthur Flour. Students were given two bags of King Arthur flour, a “Bake for Good: Kids Recipe Booklet,” Red Star yeast, a KAF dough scraper, and newly-acquired bread baking skills. Each student made two loaves of homemade bread: one to share with their family, the other to be donated to the Community Action of Orleans and Genesee food pantry.

The program was organized by Fran Toporek.“Community Action was excited to receive the donation and included the bread with food baskets for the community the following day,” she said. For more info on Bake for Good, go to http://www.kingarthurflour.com/bakeforgood/

Student representatives Aiden Kulikowski (l) and Sadie Cook (r) sent thanks to King Arthur Flour.

10 Byron-Bergen Central School District

Spring 2015

2015-16 Universal Prekindergarten

Byron-Bergen CSD is once again intending to offer a
half-day Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) program for the 2015-16 school year.The classes will be held at the
Byron-Bergen Elementary School, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen, New York 14416.

Students eligible for the program must turn 4 years of age by Dec. 1, 2015. If you are interested in having your child
attend our UPK program, please send a letter of interest with your child’s name, parents’ names, address, phone number, and birth date to: Byron-Bergen Elementary School,Attn: Brian Meister, Principal, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen, New York 14416, by Friday,April 10, 2015. Parents who have already contacted the Elementary School by phone will still need to send in a letter to be eligible for the UPK lottery. 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 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 a 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.

2015-16 Kindergarten Registration

Children who will be 5 years of age, on or before December 1, 2015, are eligible for entrance to kindergarten in September of 2015. New families in Byron-Bergen CSD should notify the school if they have a child who will enter kindergarten in September of 2015.

All children registering for kindergarten will be scheduled for a screening appointment in May or early June, 2015.The results of this screening will be used to plan for the 2015-16 kindergarten program.

The following items are necessary to complete the registration process:

1. Your child’s Birth Certificate

2. Certificate of Immunization – New York State law requires that every child entering school must have received a minimum of three doses of
diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine (DPT) and three doses of polio (IPV) vaccine. It is also mandated that each child must have received one MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and a second dose by age 7; three doses of Hepatitis B; and one dose of varicella (chickenpox), and a second dose by age 7.Those children born on or after Jan. 1, 2008, must have four doses of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV). Their immunizations must be completed prior to entering school.

3. Proof of Residency – If this is the first time you have a child entering Byron-Bergen CSD, 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:

Becky Kelly, Elementary School Secretary (585) 494-1220 ext. 1301

Information may also be sent to:

Byron-Bergen Elementary School 6971 West Bergen Road Bergen, New York 14416

Home of the Bees 11

Student Showcase

“Mask” Plaster Mask

By: Connor Kaminski, grade 7 Art Teacher:Mrs.Auer

“Crazy Cat” Oil Pastel on Paper

By: Kane Tyson, grade 1 Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Bully Free Fish” Sharpie® on Paper

By:Anastasija Rebisz, grade 6

Art Teacher: Mrs. Coniglio

“Owl” Whimsical Clay Character

By:Aurora Zinter, grade 11 Art Teacher:Mrs.Auer

“Captain America” Graphite on Paper

By: Samantha Morgante, grade 12

Art Teacher: Mrs. Fritz

12 Byron-Bergen Central School District

Spring 2015 WNY Tech Academy
As we reach the midway point of the school year, students in the WNY Tech Academy continue to learn the characteristics of effective teams.Acting in teams, students are researching what group dynamics, strategies for effective brainstorming, and the physical design of the workspace has on collaboration, plus a host of other topics related to creating a culture of collaboration and creative thinking. It is wonderful to watch our students struggle, and then learn that many of the topics they are researching are happening real-time in their own groups. It provides so many opportunities for teachable moments!

In addition to the great work our students are putting in relative to group dynamics, they have also been actively engaging with their business mentors. Eighteen individuals from companies all across our region signed on to play a supportive role in our students’ academic life.They have been engaged in dialogue around typical, challenging workplace scenarios.Through an online platform provided to us by IBM, students in Dansville are connecting with architects
in Rochester. Students right here in Byron-Bergen are connecting with industry mentors in Batavia and Oakfield. We cannot begin to express our thanks for the time and effort our mentors are putting in on behalf of our students.

Through the last four months we have also had the
pleasure of welcoming a number of visitors to our program. Assemblyman Steve Hawley and John Jakubowski, a workforce consultant with the Genesee County Economic Development Center, spoke with our students in October about critical workplace skills. Representatives from Sedgwick Business Interiors in Rochester were on campus in December to speak with our students about important lessons they’ve learned in the workplace.They provided special time to discuss what the 21st Century workplace looks like to our students researching how physical space can positively or negatively impact collaboration and group dynamics.We’ve also been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to tour Mueller-Quaker Dairy, getting a first-hand look at what it takes to produce yogurt, as well as see the many career opportunities that lie within their facility.

As we continue to move toward June we are in high gear recruiting for the next cohort of students who will join our program in 2015-16. If you know of an eighth-grade student who has a general interest in math, science, or technology and is looking to be academically challenged in non-traditional ways, please have them see their counselor, or contact me directly at (585) 494-1220 ext. 2304, or by email at tschulte@wnytechacademy.org. For more information on
the WNY Tech Academy, you may also visit our website at www.wnytechacademy.org or find us on Facebook www.Facebook.com/PTECHatBB.

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor to a WNY Tech Academy student, or you feel your company could serve as a valuable partner in our development, please contact us, we would love to speak with you.

SubStituteS Wanted “Do you have an interest in helping Byron-Bergen CSD in the

capacity of Substitute Teacher and/or Substitute Teacher Aide?”

If so, please visit our website www.bbschools.org and download an application. For more information, call Sally Mech at 494-1220 ext. 2201.

Home of the Bees 13

SAVE THE DATE!

The 2015 Buzzin’ Bistro Jazz Night & Art Show

Featuring the Roberts Wesleyan College Jazz Ensemble

Friday, April 17

6:30 p.m.

in the Jr./Sr. High School Cafeteria

In addition to the Roberts Wesleyan Jazz Ensemble, the event will feature performances by students
in grades 4-12, faculty members, and community musicians, along with a Byron-Bergen Art Show. Light refreshments will be available for purchase.

Sponsored by the Byron-Bergen Music Department, Art Department, & Music Boosters

Pesticide Application 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. At this time we are informing you an emergency pesticide application was applied at the Byron-Bergen CSD Soccer Field since the last notification was published in the 2014-15 District Calendar (August 2014).

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

In Memory of David Culver December 31, 2014
We want to send our condolences to the family of David Culver. David was a valuable member of the Byron-Bergen team having worked as a school bus driver since March of 2002. He will be greatly missed by students, faculty, and staff.

Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame

Byron-Bergen Central School District is once again sponsoring an Alumni Hall of Fame, an initiative that started 11 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 fall.

The nomination form (on page 15) 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 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 Byron-Bergen Central School District

Spring 2015

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
• EducationalAchievements

• Job RelatedAchievements

• Professional Honors andAwards • ProfessionalAffiliations
• 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 Office - Attn.: P. Gunio 6917 West Bergen Road Bergen, NY 14416

Home of the Bees 15

Superintendent Casey Kosiorek

Board of Education Debra List, President
Daniel Ireland,Vice President Yvonne Ace-Wagoner 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 Gayla Starowitz

Graphic Designer Lisa Constantine

w w w.bbschools.org

Byron-Bergen School District 2015 Voter Information

Board of Education Petitions Available Two seats on the Byron-Bergen Board of Education will be up for election on May 19, 2015.The two (2) vacancies to be filled are presently held by William Forsyth and Debra List.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 voters and return the petition to Jadwiga Syfert, District Clerk, by 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday,April 21, 2015. Petitions are available in the District Office and questions on this process can be directed to Ms. Syfert by calling (585) 494-1220, ext. 2529.

Absentee Ballots
Applications for Absentee Ballots will be available from the District Clerk on Wednesday,April 22, 2015. If
an application needs to be mailed to the voter, the Clerk must receive the completed request form no later than 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. Call (585) 494-1220, ext. 2529 with questions.

Visit the B-B webpage to take the 2015-2016 Budget Input Survey

thursday, march 12, 2015
Public inPut for budget session (boe meeting) 7:00 p.m. - Jr./Sr. High Cafeteria

thursday, march 26, 2015 draft budget reviewed with Public
inPut oPPortunity
7:00 p.m. - Professional Development Room

tuesday,aPril 21, 2015 Board Candidate Petitions due to the
District Clerk by 3:30 p.m.

aPril, 2015
Final Draft Budget presented to the Board of Education for adoption. Date and location to be announced.

aPril-may 2015
Budget presentations to public groups

may 2015
Public Budget Presentation & Meet the Board Candidates Date and location to be announced.

tuesday, may 19, 2015
budget vote and board candidate election 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
High School Wrestling/Fitness Room

16 Byron-Bergen Central School District