2014
The Bridge - Fall 2014 - Community Newsletter
Previous News Page
Leslie R. Morris Memorial Philanthropic Fund Benefits School Libraries - December 2014
From left Kaegebein librarian Stephanie Pritchard, Dr. Sharon Cramer and Huth librarian Freda Orosz.
Established in 2010 by Dr. Sharon Cramer in memory of her late husband, Leslie R. Morris, the Leslie R. Morris Memorial Philanthropic Fund provides $500 to one school library each year. Morris, a life-long reader, librarian and long-time Grand Island resident, had a special interest in encouraging boys to "be themselves" and to "find themselves in books." The books are selected based on subjects that might be of special interest to boys. For Kaegebein and Huth Road libraries last year and this year they included animal tracks, animal life cycles, NFL quarterbacks, animal adaptations, and history and science behind world famous structures. The collaboration between Dr. Cramer and Dr. Karen Karmazin (retired assistant superintendent of curriculum), begun in 2010, funded the high school library in its first year. Connor Middle School was the recipient in 2011-12, and Sidway, in the 2012-13 school year.Letter Regarding Suspicious Vehicle - December2014
Grand Island, NY...December 10, 2014On Wednesday, December 10, 2014, we were made aware of a report that a female student may have been approached yesterday afternoon at the 3300 block of Sandy Beach Road by a man in a car who attempted to invite her into his red SUV to go for something to eat. We are cooperating with the Sheriff's Department in their investigation of the allegation. The Grand Island transportation staff has been alerted to be watchful of suspicious behavior around bus stops. The building principals and faculty members have also been notified of the allegation. I respectfully request that you discuss safety habits with your children, especially with regard to strangers.
As always, the safety of your children is our primary concern. If you have any questions, please contact me at 773-8801.
Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
New Asst. Superintendent for School Business and Finance - December 2014
Grand Island, NY...December 10, 2014
At their meeting on Monday, December 8, 2014, the Grand Island Central School District Board of Education unanimously appointed Robert McDow as the assistant superintendent for school business and finance. "The Board of Education had the opportunity to meet Mr. McDow before we voted to appoint him as the new Assistant Superintendent of Business and Finance. We look forward to working with him," states Lisa Pyc, president of the Grand Island Central School District Board of Education.
Most recently, McDow has served the past seven years as director of finance and plant services for Sweet Home Central School District. Prior to that, he served as project administrator for four years for the Buffalo Board of Education. "Mr. McDow comes to us with a proven track record for working collaboratively, evidence of having the required skills for the position and for being a strategic thinker. Rob has in depth experience in school business and finance, long range strategic financial planning and oversight of capital projects. We are confident that Rob can hit the ground running and be an immediate asset to the District," states Teresa Lawrence, superintendent of Grand Island Central School District.
McDow holds a master's degree in school business administration, budget administration; a master's degree in business administration in professional accounting; and a master's degree in business administration from Canisius College. His certifications include school business leader and school business administrator. McDow says, "I am honored and look forward to helping the Superintendent and the Board of Education realize their vision and goal of making Grand Island Central School District the best district in Western New York." He will begin his service to the Grand Island Central School District on January 5, 2015.
School Board Meeting - December 2014
BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING - MONDAY - DECEMBER 8, 2014PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ROOM
GRAND ISLAND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
1100 RANSOM ROAD
6:00PM - MEETING WITH HUTH ROAD ADMINISTRATION
6:30PM - ANTICIPATED EXECUTIVE SESSION
7:30PM - ANTICIPATED RETURN TO PUBLIC SESSION
A FINALIZED AGENDA CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE WWW.GRANDISLANDSCHOOLS.ORG
School Board News - November 2014
From left: Karen Carroll, Matt Green, vice president Sue Marston, Donna Tomkins, Superintendent Dr. Teresa Lawrence, Glenn Bobeck, Paul Krull, Board President Lisa Pyc.
Photos and story by Lee CohenSchool board members were thanked for their volunteer work at a special ceremony prior to last week's school board meeting. The event was organized by PTA Council, which represents all five schools, under the leadership of President Lisa Fabiano, and brought together parents, teachers and students to acknowledge board members. The conference room was decorated with drawings and letters thanking the School Board for their work. PTA Council arranged for refreshments and Casey's Corner store provided frozen yogurt.
From left: Cydney Fairborn, Sydney Keane, Maggie Rustowicz, Maddie Green, Amber Schwinn, and Abby Chambers.
GIHS varsity cheerleaders attended last week's school board meeting to petition trustees to approve making cheerleading a competitive sport on Grand Island, since it is now an official sport in the New York State. The board voted 5-2 to do so.
From left: MaryLis Rustowicz, Maggie Rustowicz, Eric Albrecht, and Natalie Braun.
Casey's Corner store workers at the high school delivered frozen yogurt to trustees, courtesy of Casey's Corner from Menshie's in Niagara Falls, owned by Grand Island's Kevin Taylor. They were there as part of the PTA Council program to recognize and thank school trustees for their volunteer work on behalf of the Grand Island community.School Closings Due to Weather Conditions - November 2014
In the event of the Grand Island Central School District delays/closings due to weather related conditions, the following protocol will take place:Cancellation of after school events:
All day closing:
If you have not received a call from this system during a school closing, it may be that we do not have current contact information. Please review the information provided to the school on a regular basis and send in a signed note with any changes, corrections, or additions.
Two-hour delay:
Community Use of School Facilities - November 2014
The Grand Island Central School District Board of Education welcomes and encourages community groups to use school facilities when they are not being used for school programs. We have recently been asked about the process for community based organizations and for-profit organizations to request usage of facilities within the District.If your organization would like to use any school facility, such as a classroom room, cafeteria, auditorium, pool, gymnasium or outside athletic field, please call the District receptionist at 773-8800 who will connect you to the appropriate office. Groups will be asked to complete appropriate permits and insurance forms before consideration can be made for scheduling a facility. Usage fees may be applied. In order to accommodate the numerous requests received, the District follows the following order when prioritizing use of space to outside groups:
During athletic seasons, the high school gymnasiums are reserved for District teams and not available for use. We have a responsibility to maintain the community's investment in our schools. Our priority every evening is to insure that buildings are clean, safe and ready to greet students. We recognize the demand for use of school facility space is at a premium. Your cooperation in complying is appreciated and every effort will be made to accommodate your group's facility request.
School Board Meeting - November 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, November 10, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. See notice.Grand Island Assistant Superintendent Resigns - October 2014
The Grand Island Central School District assistant superintendent of finance and support services, Joe Giarrizzo, has accepted the position as administrator for school business services in the Niagara Falls City School District beginning November 25, 2014. As a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls, Giarrizzo formerly served as the director of finance and as school board president for the Niagara Falls City School District. Giarrizzo said, "I went to school here, my dad went to school here, my kids went to school here - it's home.""I would like to thank Joe Giarrizzo for his tremendous service to the Grand Island Central School District. His knowledge and commitment have been of great value, especially during these challenging fiscal times and our Capital Project," says Lisa Pyc, president of the Grand Island Board of Education. "How bitter sweet is it for Joe to return to his home school district at this time in his career. His passion and dedication to the Niagara Falls School District and community is apparent."
The Grand Island Central School District vacant position is posted and will close on November 25, 2014. The District hopes to have someone in place in January 2015. Due to the timing, the District will be hiring an interim until the position is filled. "For his short tenure with us, Joe proved to be a vital asset to our leadership team," states Teresa Lawrence, superintendent of Grand Island Central School District. "His skills are only preceded by his reputation. Joe is a man of character and integrity and will be missed. We wish him continued success as he returns home."
Middle School Principal Chosen - October 2014
The Grand Island Central School District Board of Education unanimously appointed John Fitzpatrick as principal of Veronica E. Connor Middle School (VCMS) during the October 6, 2014 school board meeting. "Our entire Board had the opportunity to sit and meet with Mr. Fitzpatrick before unanimously voting on his appointment. We believe he will be a great asset to the middle school and we look forward to his contribution to our educational community," states Lisa Pyc, president of the Grand Island Central School District Board of Education.An extensive search process began with the review of 55 applicants. Nine were interviewed in the first round by a stakeholder committee which included Grand Island faculty, staff, administrators, students and parents. Three candidates advanced to a second round which required the completion of a writing sample, a data performance task, an interview with the superintendent and central office administrators, and a student committee interview. Freshman Chloe McQuestion, president of the 2013-2014 VCMS Student Council, was a member of the student interview committee. "Mr. Fitzpatrick is funny, energetic and down to earth. He knows how to work with students," says McQuestion. VCMS teachers Sue Campbell and Vince Zaleski were also on the search committee and stated, "John is an impressive instructional leader and has the feel for what middle school students are all about. He will be an excellent fit for Grand Island." Teresa Lawrence, superintendent of Grand Island Central School District, concluded the search with a site visit to Edward Town Middle School where Fitzpatrick currently serves as assistant principal.
We are pleased to welcome John to our District. He is a veteran middle school teacher and administrator bringing 18 years of experience to our middle school students. The search committee was highly impressed with his communication skills and expertise," states Lawrence. "I am grateful for the time, effort and cooperation put forth by the search committee members throughout this extensive process and for the leadership of Eleanor Payne and Cheryl Cardone during this time of transition." Fitzpatrick has served as assistant principal since 2007, and as intern assistant principal since 2005, in Edward Town Middle School for the Niagara-Wheatfield Central School District. Prior to his administrative duties, Fitzpatrick held a teaching role since 2001 at both the Edward Town Middle School and Niagara-Wheatfield Senior High School. Fitzpatrick holds a master's degree in educational administration from the University at Buffalo and a master's degree in earth science from Buffalo State College. "I'm very eager to join the middle school team and the District. I have high regards for the students, faculty, staff, parents and community of Grand Island. I can't wait to get started working together with this outstanding team." Fitzpatrick will begin his service to the Grand Island Central School District on October 27, 2014.
School Board Meeting - October 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, October 6, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. See notice.Joint Town & School Board Meeting - September 2014
A Joint Town & School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, September 29, 2014 at Eco Island, 3325 Staley Road. A tour is planned at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be followed by an Executive Session.School Board Meeting - September 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, September 8, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. See notice.News From Supt. Lawrence - August 2014
By Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools
The first day of school is Thursday, September 4, 2014. Parents are asked to review the following changes to the bus drop off and parent drop off processes this year at the Veronica E. Connor Middle School and Grand Island High School complex. There are no changes to the pickup and drop off procedures at Sidway, Huth and Kaegebein. As a reminder, the Kaegebein drop off procedure will remain the same as it was at the end of last year, with busses dropping off students in the front, and the parent drop off and walkers at the back of the building.
At the Middle School and High School complex, there will be a new bus drop off/pick up loop as well as a new parent drop off loop. For safety purposes, the two loops will be separated by curbing and fencing and cars will not be permitted into the new bus loop. At the Middle School, busses will drop off and pick up in the new bus loop in front of the school. Parents who drop off and/or pick up their Middle School children will enter Driveway #1 and follow the signs to pass through. At the High School, busses will drop off and pick up in the new bus loop in front of the school. Parents who drop off and/or pick up their High School children will enter Driveway #3 and follow the signs to pass through. Access and parking to the back of the complex has not changed and are accessible from either Driveway #1 or Driveway #5. There will also be new and additional lighting throughout the parking areas as well as along the new walkways. There will also be new signage to help with the flow of traffic.
We are confident that the new parking in front of the complex will better accommodate pick up and drop offs as well as visitors to the schools for events and activities. Lastly, please be reminded that parking in a fire lane is not prohibited and can result in being ticketed as well as the possibility of your car being towed. The attached diagram shows out the new traffic patterns and highlights the new building access points.
Together with the Board of Education, we wish your children a rewarding and successful school year.
Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Grand Island Central School District
Board of Education Retreat Agenda - August 2014
The Grand Island Central School District has scheduled a retreat in the District Office Conference Room on Wednesday, August 27, 2014.6:00pm Optional Board of Education Meeting
6:30pm Retreat Start
9:00pm Final Thoughts - Retreat End
School Board Meeting - August 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, August 4, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. The regular meeting is at 7:30 p.m. See agenda.Grand Island Board of Education Notice of Public Meetings - July 2014
Monday, July 7, 2014Location: High School Professional Development Room
6:30pm Anticipated Executive Session
7:30pm Reorganization Meeting & Regular Meeting
(go to www.grandislandschools.org for the full agenda)
Grand Island Board of Education Notice of Public Meetings - June 2014
NEW LOCATION:Grand Island Board of Education Notice of Public Meetings
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Grand Island Waste Water Department, 3500 Baseline Road
7:00pm Executive Session
1. The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation.
9:00pm Public Session/Adjourn
Wednesday, June 18, 2014 in the District Office Conference Room at 7:30pm. The Executive Session agenda includes:
1. The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation.
School Board Meeting - June 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, June 9, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. The regular meeting is at 7:30 p.m. See agenda.GICSD Voting Results - May 2014
Grand Island Central School DistrictProposition 1 $55,816,937 Budget - 843 Yes 346 No
Proposition 2 $655,280 School Buses & Vehicles - 812 Yes 359 No
Board of Education Trustee Results (3)
Susan Marston - 942
Karen Carroll - 856
Matthew Green - 754
Tak Nobumoto - 531
News From Supt. Lawrence - May 2014
By Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools
On April 22, 2014 the Grand Island Board of Education adopted the 2014/15 school budget. The public vote will be held in the high school gymnasium on Tuesday, May 20, from 7 am to 9 pm. Community members were invited to attend the five pubic budget input sessions that were held on January 27, February 24, March 24, April 8, and April 22, 2014. For your review, all the presentations are posted on our website.
The Board of Education set parameters and guidelines throughout the budget process. These included that the budget stay within the tax cap, we focus on the equalization of class size in the two elementary schools, that we preserve programs that provide opportunities and supports for students, and that the Grand Island Central School Districts maintain sustainability. The budget that was adopted on April 22, 2014 meets these objectives. A budget increase of 2.6% over last year is met through an increase in revenue and a decrease in expenditures. Any reductions in staff are attributed to attrition.
Since introduced in 2009, the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA), money that is deducted from districts’ state aid and used to help close New York’s budget deficit, has resulted in approximately 16 million dollar reduction in aid to Grand Island. Districts have two options when attempting to close this gap – they can reduce expenditures or increase revenues. A reduction in expenditures is experienced as loss of personnel, resources or program. A raise in revenue would largely come from an increase in taxes. Staying within the tax cap, the adopted budget fairly balances and shares the responsibility of funding our school’s program between the District and the community.
We are known for our quality program and while we will experience a reduction in workforce, we are confident this budget provides opportunities for students to meet or exceed NYS graduation requirements and leave us college and career ready. As always, please feel free to contact me at 773-8801 or at teresalawrence@grandislandschools.org.
Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools, Grand Island Central School District
GISD Budget Flyer - May 2014
See flyer.The Grand Island School Budget & Trustee Vote is Tuesday, May 20th from 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. at the Grand Island High School gym, 1100 Ransom Road. See flyer above for all pertinent information.
Board of Education Meeting Notice -May 12,2014
Grand Island Central School DistrictBoard of Education
High School Professional Development Room
6:30pm Anticipated Executive Session
7:30pm Budget Hearing followed by Regular Meeting
Agenda - Monday, May 12, 2014
Board of Education Nominations Reopen - May 2014
In accordance with Education Law Section 2018(d), when a candidate withdraws a nominating petition for a position on a board of education, the District is required to extend the nomination deadline. Tammy Zulawski has withdrawn her petition and therefore, Grand Island is required reopen and extend the nomination deadline to May 13, 2014. Interested candidates are to pick up petitions from Janet Schuster, District Clerk, at the Grand Island Central School District Office, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.Superintendent Teresa Lawrence Statement - April 2014
The following statement was made at the Board of Education meeting on April 22, 2014 by Superintendent Teresa Lawrence:"The Grand Island Central School District has a set of guidelines that outline students' expectations for behavior and dress, our adherence to constitutional rights and our need for orderly learning environments - this is called our dress code and can be found on our website, in our schools and around the community. At the start of the current school year, we produced a "wear this not that" flier to showcase examples of proper school attire. A recent event caused us to review and reflect on our practices and long standing application and response to infractions to our code. I personally listened to or read every voicemail, letter and email we received. After review, consultation with legal counsel and authorities on the matter, we recognize we were wrong in our response to a perceived violation of our dress code and the response has been corrected.
There are four important pieces of information that helped frame our decision making:
1. We have a code of conduct that specifically states students' expectations and possible remedial reactions to infractions. Page 12 talks about 'appropriate' appearance in a school setting and choice in clothing that does not promote or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and or encourage other illegal or violent acts.
2. A component of our mission statement is to foster social responsibility.
3. We have representation on two sides of a continuum in the school and community. On one side, we have a community in which hunting is prevalent with one data point suggesting 61% of GI households have minimally one registered weapon. On another side, we are a community directly impacted by the shooting of Sandy Hook.
4. We have a long standing practice that anything depicting weapons, drug paraphernalia (even rips in jeans) resulted in children being asked to turn inside out, change or take off the clothing in question.
What we have learned is, that while accepted as common practice, merely displaying an image of what might be perceived as undesirable image by some - or one that challenges the dress code - on a piece of clothing is not sufficient to warrant the actions we ask of students - turn inside out, change or take off. What we have is a challenge - one that we are embracing. The challenge, and our responsibility, is to craft a dress code that 1) focuses on the safety of children and staff, 2) upholds constitutional rights and 3) meets community standard. This dress code needs to be clear and widely understood with enforceable policies and procedures. That said, we will not forgo the use of common sense when it comes to the safety of our students. We will continue to live out our mission such that, if and when a student or employee has a choice to make about clothing, a choice that allows an expression of their rights, that they will choose in such a social responsible way that is sensitive to those in their immediate community. Meaning, if a person has the choice between two shirts, one that could be perceived as more provocative than the other, that the less provocative one would be chosen.
We have stopped our long standing practice and have begun a process to review our dress code and responses to infractions. We welcome community representatives. Interested individuals should contact me at my office. Lastly, during the last few months, my commitment to upholding constitutional rights and my allegiance to this county have been questioned. I would like to go on the record and share this could not be farther from the truth. My daughter is a high school varsity rifle shooter who recently shot at West Point representing Section VI champions and who is seeking admittance into a United States Military Academy; my partner is an avid hunter and he is a gun owner and my father proudly served in the Armed Forces for 25 years. We are a nation that respects guns and gun rights: we are a free nation that has, and upholds the constitutional rights of every citizen. This experience underscores the greatness of the United States of America and how that greatness plays itself out in schools. We are free, safe and protected to challenge one another while working together toward determining what is best and right for a community."
Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools, Grand Island Central School District
Meet School Board Candidates Night - April 2014
PTA Council will sponsor a "Meet the Candidates Night" Tuesday, May 13th, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in Connor Middle School Little Theatre. Five candidates are running for three open seats on the school board. They are Mathew S. Green, Tak Nobumoto, Karen Carroll, Susan Marston and Tammy Zulawski. Nobomuto and Marston are current board members. Members of the League of Women Voters of Buffalo/Niagara will serve as moderators and timekeepers.Trustee Emily Ciraolo will not seek an additional term.Absentee Ballots for Budget Vote - April 2014
On Tuesday, May 20, 2014 Grand Island residents will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the school district budget vote. For those voters who qualify, absentee ballots will be available. To be considered for an absentee ballot, you must fit one of the following categories:1. Duties, Occupation or Business outside of County or Town.
2. Vacation outside of County.
3. Patient in the hospital.
4. Unable to appear personally at the polling place on such day because of illness or physical disability.
5. A. Will be detained in jail for an offense other than a felony or awaiting trial or Grand Jury action.
B. Will be confined in prison after conviction for an offense other than a felony.
6. Absence from the school district on the day of election by reason of accompanying or being with a spouse, child or parent who is an eligible district voter and is eligible for an absentee ballot due to one of the above or below listed reasons.
7. Confinement due to permanent illness or disability.
FOLLOW THE STEPS LISTED BELOW TO RECEIVE YOUR ABSENTEE BALLOT
1. REQUEST AN APPLICATION. Call (773-8801) or write the District Clerk, Janet Schuster, Grand Island Central School District, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY 14072, for an application.
2. RETURN YOUR APPLICATION. Once you have completely filled out the application for an Absentee Ballot, you must return it to the District Clerk's office located in the District Offices adjacent to the High School. It may be mailed or hand-delivered, but must be received at least seven (7) days before the election in order for the ballot to be mailed to the voter.
3. FILL OUT YOUR BALLOT AND TURN IT IN. Assuming the above instructions have been properly completed and you have qualified for an Absentee Ballot, you will receive a ballot in the mail which will contain the same information as the ballot on the day of the vote. Follow the instructions on the ballot and either mail it or hand deliver it to the District Clerk's office. However, it must be received by the District Clerk’s office no later than 5:00pm on the day of the vote (May 20, 2014).
News From Supt. Lawrence - April 2014
By Teresa Lawrence, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools
It is hard to believe I have had the honor of serving as the school superintendent for 10 months already. During the past few weeks our students have outperformed themselves on multiple levels. Many seniors are proud recipients of scholarships, some have signed letters of intent to play sports at college, and one will attend a military academy. Most recently, many of our high school performing groups received the highest rating at a competition in Washington, DC. Over the last few months, faculty, parents and community members have stressed their desire for our schools to offer a balanced program that produces graduates that are smart, prepared and decent citizens. New challenges facing schools provide the opportunity to review program, and we will do just that. Every day as I walk the halls, interact with students and observe the quality outcomes, I am confident that the program we offer is on the right path toward meeting standards, community expectations and the needs of students. On Tuesday, April 22, the Board of Education will adopt a budget that stays within the tax cap. This budget allows opportunities to right size and invest where appropriate and necessary. I welcome your comments and feedback at teresalawrence@k12.ginet.org or 773-8801.
School Board Meeting - April 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Tuesday, April 22, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. The regular meeting is at 7:30 p.m. See agenda.Budget Input Session - April 2014
The Grand Island Board of Education will hold its fourth Budget Input Session on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at 7:00pm in the Professional Development Room of the High School located at 1100 Ransom Road. At this time, the administrative team and Board of Education are actively engaged in the development of the budget for the 2014/15 school year. The budget development process is driven by the Board's desire to offer the highest quality program while being fiscally responsible to the community. You are encouraged to attend. The Board will officially adopt the 2014/15 school budget at their April 22 meeting and the public vote will occur on May 20, 2014.Protesters Rally Before Meeting - April 2014
Rus Thompson talking to the press.
Led by New York Tea Party leader Rus Thompson, a large gathering of protesters greeted School/Town Board Workshop attendees on Monday, March 31st at the high school. The protesters rallied to show their displeasure at the suspension of a Grand Island High School student for wearing NRA (National Rifle Assoc.) apparel. In early March, the student was told to remove a sweatshirt that featured "Protected by Smith and Wesson", only to find a NRA t-shirt. The school stated that the one day suspension was for insubordination. The protesters see this as infringement of the 2nd Amendment, "the right of individuals to keep and bear arms." Dozens of protesters attended the meeting until School Board President Tak Nobumoto stated that the meeting was a workshop, not a regular meeting and there was no time for public comment. The next School Board meeting at which public comment could be heard is scheduled for April 22nd.Budget Input Session - March 2014
The Grand Island Board of Education will hold its second Budget Input Session on Monday, March 24, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. in the Professional Development Room of the High School located at 1100 Ransom Road. At this time, the administrative team and Board of Education are actively engaged in the development of the budget for the 2014/15 school year. The budget development process is driven by the Board's desire to offer the highest quality program while being fiscally responsible to the community. You are encouraged to attend. The Board will officially adopt the 2014/15 school budget at their April 22 meeting and the public vote will occur on May 20, 2014.School Board Candidates Sought to Fill 3 Seats - March 2014
Candidates interested in a seat on the Grand Island Board of Education must file nominating petitions with District Clerk Janet Schuster by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2014. Twenty five (25) valid signatures of district residents are required on a petition. Forms are available at the district office located at 1100 Ransom Road from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays. There are two (3) three-year terms and one (1) one-year term to be filled. The qualifications to run for the Board of Education are: (1) you must be a citizen of the United States; (2) you must be at least 18 years of age; (3) you must be a resident of the district for one year prior to the election; and (4) you must be able to read and write. The School Board election and budget vote will be held from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2014 in the High School Main Gym.School Board Meeting - March 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, March 10, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. The regular meeting is at 7:30 p.m. See agenda.Budget Input Session - February 2014
The Grand Island Board of Education will hold its second Budget Input Session on Monday, February 24, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. in the Professional Development Room of the High School located at 1100 Ransom Road. At this time, the administrative team and Board of Education are actively engaged in the development of the budget for the 2014/15 school year. The budget development process is driven by the Board's desire to offer the highest quality program while being fiscally responsible to the community. You are encouraged to attend. The next meeting will be March 24th. The Board will officially adopt the 2014/15 school budget at their April 22 meeting and the public vote will occur on May 20, 2014.Snow Days Update - February 2014
To date four emergency (snow) days have been called due to inclement weather: January 3, 7, 8 and 28. Any emergency (snow) days taken between February 4 through and including April 11 will be reclaimed, in order, April 14, 15, 16 and 17. The full February 17 - 21, 2014 recess remains intact. If you have any questions, please contact the District Office at 773-8800.School Board Meeting - February 2014
A School Board Meeting is planned for Monday, February 10, 2014 in the High School Professional Development Room. The regular meeting is at 7:30 p.m. See agenda.Budget Input Session - January 2014
The Grand Island Board of Education will conduct a budget input session on Monday, January 27, 2014 at 6:30pm in the Professional Development Room located in the High School. At this time, the administrative team and Board of Education are actively engaged in the development of the budget for the 2014/15 school year. The budget development process is driven by the Board's desire to offer the highest quality program while being fiscally responsible to the community. You are encouraged to attend the three public budget input sessions scheduled for January 27, February 24 and March 24. The Board will officially adopt the 2014/15 school budget at their April 22 meeting and the public vote will occur on May 20, 2014.Trustee Appointed - January 2014
The Grand Island Board of Education recently appointed Susan J. Marston to fill the vacant seat until the May 2014 election.
