Voters Approve $3.9M Renovation Project - December 2006
Poll watcher shown are (left) Mary Ann Crowe, Michael Schuster and Thomas Dzielski
Jodi Robinson Photo
Wednesday, December 13, 2006 . . .Grand Island voters passed the $3.9M Buildings Renovation Project with a vote of 659 for and 55 against on Tuesday, December 12, 2006.
For more information, click GICSD $3.9m Building Renovation Project.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, December 11, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, December 11, 2006 at Kaegebein Elementary School Auditorium, 1690 Love Road (6:30 p.m. tour Kaegebein School). Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 12/11/06
School Board Announces New Superintendent Of Schools - December 2006
Robert W. Christmann
December 7, 2006 . . .The Grand Island Board of Education is pleased to announce the selection of Robert W. Christmann as the new Superintendent of Schools for the Grand Island District. Mr. Christmann is currently serving the Newark Central School District in Wayne County where he has been superintendent since 1991. The district is about 20 miles from Rochester and home to about 2500 students.
Mr. Christmann was previously Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for that district. He has also served as a secondary school principal in Danbury, Connecticut; an elementary principal in Frontier Central School District; as well as teaching and administrative assignments in the Kenmore – Tonawanda UFSD.
Mr. Christmann received his BS Degree from SUNY Oswego. He received his MS Degree along with his School District Administrator Certificate from State University College at Buffalo as well as completing additional doctoral graduate work at SUNY Buffalo.
The new superintendent is currently serving as one of eight statewide elected members of the New York State Council of School Superintendents Executive Committee and Commissioner’s Advisory Committee. He is also a faculty member through SUNY Oswego in the NYS’s Superintendent’s Development Program which prepares school administrators to become superintendents.
Bob and his wife Karen, a special education/reading teacher in the Canandaigua City School District, are looking forward to returning to Western New York and are hoping to find residence on Grand Island.
Bob will be at the BOE meeting on Monday, December 11 at Kaegebein Elementary School Auditorium at 7 p.m.
School Board Report - November 27, 2006
By Jodi Robinson
Monday, November 27, 2006 . . .The meeting began with a report from Assistant Superintendent Dr. Karen Karmazin regarding a new software being used in the elementary grades (K-5) for report cards that also enables the teachers to create a progress report calendar. The teachers "love it" and can use it throughout the elementary grades. Sidway Principal Denise Dunbar gave a presentation on the new Positive Behavioral Intervention & Support Program (PBIS). This program was developed by a training team made up of Sidway and Kaegebein administration and teachers and encompasses the expected behaviors of students in the classroom, dining room and hallways of the schools. The basis is the Viking Values, Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Safe. Sidway art teacher Mrs. Theresa Barnack developed a poster featuring Charlotte Bear that will be posted around the school. Music teacher Mrs. Christine Clendening wrote a song, "The Best I Can Be," that the first grade students in Mrs. Pam Suszczynski's class sang at the meeting.
Principal Dunbar went on to describe the "Reading Recovery" Program that would be beneficial to students having trouble with reading and writing. The program targets the lowest performers in the first grade and with early intervention and a full 12-20 week program of one-on-one with the student has an 80% success rate. The Reading Recovery was developed in New Zealand 20 years ago and is now used worldwide. Mrs. Dunbar noted that for every $3.00 paid into the program, $5.00 was saved by the taxpayers in future special education costs.
School Board President Richard Little thanked the anonymous donor who made a $4000.00 donation to Huth Road Elementary to cover two field trips for each of the four grades. Assistant Superintendent For Finance Mrs. Loraine Ingrasci went over the numbers of the upcoming 2007-2008 school budget and presented the $3.9M Buildings Renovation Project PowerPoint presentation that will be voted on December 12, 2006 at the high school from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Director of Pupil Personnel Services Carol Jones discussed the enrollment projections, noting that the population is declining along with housing starts. This year's eighth grade class numbers 232 and is the smallest in 15 years. The high school numbers are the highest in the fifteen-year span but will continue to decline in the coming years. The total student enrollment at this time is 3,210.
Mike Rayhill spoke in the Voice of the People segment, introducing the not-for-profit group "Viking Stadium Boosters Association." The group would like to install an artificial playing surface and lights at Masters Field, improve the grandstand and press box and construct a lavatory and concession stand. All of these projects are expected to improve attendance and attract tournaments, etc.
The following school board meetings have been scheduled:
GICSD $3.9m Building Renovation Project - 2006
Vote from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. In High School Main Foyer, 1100 Ransom Road
Press Release, November 21, 2006 - Grand Island School District
Grand Island, NY November 21, 2006 – The New York State Department of Education has assured school districts around the state including Grand Island Central School District that they will receive the additional State Aid in the form of EXCEL aid. For Grand Island that means $1,037,008 to help reduce the local share of any new building project approved by the Commissioner and with contracts signed after April 1, 2006, thereby allowing the district to maintain its facilities at no cost to the taxpayer.
Click GICSD $3.9m Building Renovation Project for complete press release.
The vote will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2006 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the high school main foyer, 1100 Ransom Road. For further information and to view an informational brochure, visit the school district website at http://www.k12.ginet.org and check under district news. Questions may be directed to Loraine Ingrasi, Assistant Superintendent for Finance at 773-8804 or email at loraineingrasci@k12.ginet.org.
Sidway School Kindergarten Enrollment 2007-2008 - 2006
Press Release, November 17, 2006 - Mrs. Denise A. Dunbar, Principal - Charlotte Sidway School
Attention Residents of Grand Island with children ages newborn to 5 years of age:
To effectively plan for the 2007 - 2008 school year we would like to know how many children reside on Grand Island who are eligible for kindergarten enrollment in September 2007. Any child who will reach their 5th birthday on or before December 1, 2007 is eligible to attend kindergarten next school year. Please call the District Office at 773-8819 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and give your name, your child's name, child's date of birth, address and telephone number.
We ask that you call even if you do not plan on sending your child to kindergarten next year or plan on sending your child to a private or parochial school. This will assist our Transportation Department, State and Federal Funding.
We would also appreciate calls from parents/guardians of children ages newborn to 4 years of age residing on Grand Island for future enrollment projections.
School District Information Meetings - 2006
The Grand Island Central School District has listed a schedule of informational meetings in regard to the $3.9M Buildings Renovation Project. Click $3.9M Buildings Renovation Project for meeting dates.
School District Absentee Ballot Applications
Available For Dec. 12th Capital Improvement Bond Vote - 2006
School District press release, Nov. 14, 2006 . . .On Tuesday, December 12, 2006 Grand Island residents will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the school district capital improvement bond vote. For those voters who qualify, absentee ballots will be available. Of course, there are specific reasons for the use of absentee ballots. To be considered, 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 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.
5. 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 J. Schuster, Grand Island Central School District, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, New York 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 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 take the same basic form as that inside the voting machine. 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 5:00 p.m. on the day of the vote (December 12, 2006).
School Board Report - November 13, 2006
By Jodi Robinson
Monday, November 13, 2006 . . .Assistant Superintendent Dr. Karen Karmazin filled in for Interim Superintendent Larry Zacher due to a death in his family. Dr. Karmazin noted that Mr. William Ferguson, a Marilyn Horne Foundation singer, will be visiting the high school Wednesday, November 15th to work with the music students and to perform a recital. An update on the Emergency Drill held Thursday, November 9th at all district schools was reported as being successful. All schools were in lock down mode, with Kaegebein Elementary having an "intruder" and full response from all agencies. A discussion was held with teachers and administrators following the drill at Kaegebein School. An out of district athletic field trip was approved by the board. The Varsity Wrestling team will travel to the Jamestown Holiday Tournament on December 15 & 16, 2006. The school board also approved the ratification of the Administrative Contract that runs from July 2006-2009.
School lunch manager Dennis Donovan gave a food service presentation and update. Mr. Donovan reported that 1600 student lunches are served every day at the six Island schools, and when adding breakfast and teachers' lunches, the total is 2000 meals served daily. With federal and state subsidies, the lunch program is self supporting. The State of New York reviews the lunch program every five years and this year's review garnered a good rating. Mr. Donovan spoke of a new register system called Nutri-Kids that eliminates fraud, keeps track of the free/reduced meals and saves time as it is touch screen. He also mentioned that 20% of all lunches are on a pre-pay basis. A nutritional review was also done and improvements were made in meeting targets for vitamins and minerals and lowering of fat. Before closing his presentation, Mr. Donovan noted the condition of aging equipment in all of the school kitchens.
Before ending the meeting, Assistant Superintendent For Finance Mrs. Loraine Ingrasci spoke of spreading the word regarding the Capital Improvement Project to be voted on in December. A power point presentation has been developed and will be presented at PTA meetings throughout the district, and in a public forum to be held in the high school auditorium from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on November 28th. The presention will also be reviewed at the Town Board meeting on December 4, 2006. A press release is to be sent out on Thursday, November 16th and a brochure will be sent out after the Thanksgiving holiday. This is to inform the public that the Capital Improvement Project is funded by state aid and is no cost to Island residents.
The following school board meetings have been scheduled:
School Board Workshop Agenda - Monday, November 13, 2006
A School Board workshop will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, November 13, 2006 in Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 11/13/06
Emergency Drills To Be Conducted in Grand Island Schools - 2006
School District Press Release - Oct. 31, 2006. . .The students and staff of the Grand Island Central School District will conduct emergency response drills on Thursday, November 9, 2006 to evaluate the effectiveness of District-wide Safety Procedures.
At the Kaegebein Elementary School a functional exercise will be conducted. The exercise will involve Kaegebein students and staff. A handful of individuals will have defined roles. Also involved will be an actor portraying an intruder, area law enforcement personnel and district administrators. The script will involve an “intruder” entering the school normally, entering the school office and engaging in hostile discussion with the office staff. The intruder will then leave the office and pursue his objective in the school. He will continue to interact with escalating hostility and eventually be apprehended by law enforcement. All participants will be briefed in advance and in position to play their respective roles.
Students will be appropriately informed of the situation to ensure no one is alarmed or upset by the drill. Signs will be posted in the vicinity of the school indicating that a drill is in progress. These signs are designed to prevent any “panic” or confusion regarding the day’s activity. Parents are requested to review the situation with their children before and after the exercise to address any potential concerns and to provide feedback to the School District about student reaction.
In the other four schools each building administrator will conduct an in-house lockdown drill. The in-house drill will occur at a time deemed appropriate by the building principal but will not coincide with the Kaegebein Emergency Scenario to avoid the potential for confusion.
Grand Island Central School District’s primary concern is the safety of our children. Emergency drills ensure our staff is prepared in the event of an actual situation and a crucial element of an effective plan is that it is practiced often. For further questions, please contact Grand Island Central School District at 773-8800.
Special Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, November 6, 2006
A Special School Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, November 6, 2006 in the District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 11/6/06
School District Legal Notice - 2006
TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF GRAND ISLAND CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT:
The Board of Education of Grand Island Central School District, County of Erie, New York, has scheduled a meeting of the qualified voters of said School District to be held at the Grand Island Senior High School Auditorium, Grand Island, New York in said School District, on the 12th day of December, 2006 at 7:00 a.m. on that day, with polls to be open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. for the purpose of voting upon the following proposition:
"Complete Legal Notice"
School Board Report - October 23, 2006
By Jodi Robinson
Monday, October 23, 2006 . . .Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lawrence Zacher began the meeting recognizing the district school board members as it is New York State School Board Recognition week. Dr. Zacher went on to note his appreciation of a job well done during the October Storm emergency by town employees, the Grand Island Fire Company, and district employees. Many of the district staff reported even though they were without power. Three more "snow days" are available this school year so with luck there will not be any need of make-up days. Sidway School was a designated emergency shelter over the weekend of the storm and National Grid workers were offered shelter if there was a need, which there was not.
The New York State School Music Association bestowed a gold rating to the Connor Middle School Concert Band led by Mr. Clarke Elliot; Singcopations Choir, Mrs. Annalea Masiello; String Orchestra, Miss Debra Remson; and 6th Grade Band, Mrs. Sarah Russo; after a performance rating festival in spring 2006.
High school attendance was noted as being at 97.4% during the first month of school. It was also noted that high school Coach Don Sauer and his boys and girls track teams attended an invitational in Orlando recently and finished 15th and 16th respectively out of 30 teams. Spirit day and the homecoming dance have been rescheduled to December 8-9, 2006.
Faculty from the high school Business and Technology department presented a dynamic video presentation outlining the courses offered and skills learned in their classes. Teachers involved in the video included Mrs. Sandra Burns, Mrs. Cheryl Chamberlain, Mr. Carl Koppman, Mr. Christopher Simpson and Mrs. Mary Smith.
Under the Consent Agenda, the board agreed to fund attendance at the 2007 Music Educators National Conference All-East Honor Ensembles for up to two participants from the high school if invited, March 8-11, 2007 at a cost of no more than $2400. The board also agreed to a bond resolution for a district wide Capital Improvement Project estimated to be $3,976,781 that will be voted on from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday, December 12. This project will be of no cost to the Grand Island voters as it is being funded by state money and is intended for the maintenance and upkeep of school buildings.
The superintendent's report focused on the athlete physicals held in August 2006. Problems occurred with unsanitary conditions, quality of exams and long waits over the two-day session which was noted by two parents at the September 11th meeting. A verbal agreement has been made with University Sports Medicine to continue with their contract. Changes to be made are the allowance of family physicians' physicals and physicals will be offered by USM during gym class in the spring of 2007. Also, better care is to be taken in sanitary protocol.
The following meetings have been scheduled:
Special Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, October 30, 2006
A Special School Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, October 30, 2006 in the District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 10/30/06
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, October 23, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, October 23, 2006 at 1100 Ransom Road, Room 108. Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 10/23/06
Maria Jereva, M.D. New School District Physician - 2006
The Grand Island Central School District has hired Maria Jereva, M.D. as the new school physician. Dr. Jereva, Board Certified in Family Medicine, may be contacted at her office in Freedom Place, 1801 Grand Island Blvd. (773-8925).
Schools Closed Monday, October 16th - 2006
All Grand Island Central School District schools will be closed on Monday, October 16, 2006. The announced has been made by the district office.
Youth Basketball League Announced - 2006
Grand Island Community Education is once again sponsoring a Youth Basketball League for boys and girls 6-13 years of age. The first 40 students registered in each age group will be accepted. Registrations forms will be distributed on Friday, October 13, 2006 to students at the elementary schools and St. Stephen School. At Connor Middle School, the students must pick up registration forms in the Physical Education office. Please contact Community Education at 773 8864 with any questions.
Special School Board Meeting - 2006
A Special Board of Education meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 3, 2006 in the District Office Board Room to discuss a specific personnel issue.
The school board will meet from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Mr. Donald Ogilvie of Erie 1 BOCES to discuss the superintendent search process. Following this meeting will be the advisory committee’s first orientation meeting with the Board of Education in Room 108 of the High School.
District Announces Superintendent's Days - 2006
Grand Island Schools interim Superintendent Dr. Lawrence Zacher has announced that Superintendent's Day will be held on Friday, February 2, 2007 and Friday, March 30, 2007 when district schools will be closed.
District Wide Early Dismissal Drill - October 2006
Assistance Schools Superintendent Loraine Ingrasci has announced the state mandated, district wide Early Dismissal Drill on Friday, October 6, 2006. Students in all school district schools will be dismissed 15 minutes earlier than the usual dismissal times.
Grand Island Central School District Superintendent Search Continues - Sept. 2006
September 22, 2006 School District Press Release . . .The Grand Island Central School District Board of Education recently completed preliminary interviews of candidates for the position of Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Donald Ogilvie, Erie 1 BOCES District Superintendent, is serving as the consultant to the Board in their search for a new superintendent. The vacancy was advertised from July 10 through August 25, 2006. Mr. Ogilvie and the Board then reviewed the applications of all interested candidates and identified semi-finalists. Following the semi-finalist interviews the Board and consultant will meet to identify finalists for the position.
An advisory committee is being organized comprised of individuals from different school and community groups who have been selected by the groups themselves. Individuals from each school building, employee bargaining units, community organizations, parents and central administration will serve on the committee. The committee’s charge is to interview finalists selected by the board and to provide feedback on the perceived qualifications of each candidate. The Board will then conduct finalist interviews and make their selection. It is anticipated that an appointment might be made in mid-December with the new Superintendent assuming responsibilities sometime thereafter. Please note that the timeline is subject to change.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, September 25, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, September 25, 2006 at ECO Island, Staley Road west (6:30 p.m. tour ECO Island). Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 9/25/06
School Board Report - September 11, 2006
By Jodi Robinson
Monday, September 11, 2006 . . . The school board meeting began with Dr. Karen Karmazin, Asst. Superintendent for Curriculum/Instruction, noting that there are 24 new teachers in the school district who attended a four-day orientation over the school break. Dr. Karmazin mentioned Huth Road Principal Mary Haggarty, new High School Principal Sandra Anzalone and Director of Instructional Technology Molly Talty as noteworthy speakers at the orientation. Huth Road reading teacher Deanna Cannavo was thanked for creating a literacy portfolio that will be used in the elementary grades to track student progress.
Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Support Services Loraine Ingrasci gave a Capital Project update regarding the state mandating a five-year plan and said that there are state funds available that will cover 73% of the $4,000,000 estimated capital needs. There is additional aid available to cover the remainder of the project at no cost to the taxpayers. All board members voted in favor of Ingrasci sending a letter of intent to procure the aid.
Sidway School Principal Denise Dunbar introduced former Huth Road School student teacher, Danielle Beach, as a long term substitute for Physical Education teacher Jennifer Marsala who will be on leave until January 2007. Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lawrence Zacher commended administration and staff on a successful first day and mentioned he observed significant instruction already in progress. Dr. Zacher noted that notification of sex offenders now encompasses levels 1 and 2 along with the previous notification of level 3. In the past, the school district sent letters out to areas affected by level three offenders. With the new notification process, letters will still be sent for level three, and information can be found on the school district website for level one and two. Each time a notification is sent home it costs an estimated $500 and six hours of staff time.
During the "Voice of the People," Mrs. Liz Lutnick and Mrs. Karen Ernst spoke of their disgust with the school mandated sports physicals held in August in which all students interested in playing fall/winter sports in the middle and high schools had to report for a physical given by UB Sports Medicine over two days. In previous years students were allowed to have their own physicians perform the exams. The parents spoke of inadequate exams performed by unqualified personnel and unsanitary conditions. Mrs. Lutnick stated that conditions improved the second day after a call was made to the Erie County Health Department. She also asked that the contract be rescinded and any monies paid be reimbursed to the district. The school board retired to executive session to discuss the matter.
The following meetings have been scheduled:
• Monday, September 25, 2006 – Regular Meeting - Eco Island - 6:30 p.m. tour - 7:00 p.m. meeting.
• Monday, October 23, 2006 — Regular Meeting - High School Room 108 - 7:00 p.m.
Board of Education Workshop Meeting Agenda - Monday, September 11, 2006
A School Board workshop meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, September 11, 2006 in High School Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Workshop Agenda 9/11/06
Community Education Registration - Fall 2006
Registration for Grand Island Central School District's Community Education fall 2006 classes will be held from 6-7 p.m. Monday, September 25, 2006 at Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road. Residents are urged to use the mail-in procedure. No mail-in registrations will be accepted after September 25, 2006.
A brochure of course offerings that includes academics, sports and hobbies, was mailed to each Grand Island household. Jenepher Banker is Director of Community Education. Community Education Advisory Board members are Peter Bellanca, Joan Bodkin, Maryann Kruk, Marion Fabiano, Mary Ellen Kippley, Theodore Korkuc and Kathy Baker Hoppel.
Inquiries for information will be accepted between 10:45 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday at 773-8864 (days).
Click Community Education 2006 for further information.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, August 28, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, August 28, 2006 in High School Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 8/28/06
Board of Education Workshop Meeting - Monday, August 21, 2006
The Grand Island Central School Board of Education will conduct a workshop meeting at 5 p.m. Monday, August 21, 2006 in the District Office Board Room, 1100 Ransom Road. The workshop is being held to discuss working relationships among the Board. Due to the nature of this discussion, the Board anticipates going into executive session shortly after opening the meeting.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, August 14, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, August 14, 2006 in the District Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 8/14/06
Board of Education Meeting - Monday, July 24, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, July 24, 2006 in the District Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 7/24/06
Grand Island Board of Education Announces Two Priorities - July 2006
July 13, 2006 School District Press Release . . .The Board of Education of the Grand Island Central School District announces two priorities as it begins its work for the '06-07 school year:
• Re-opening the search for a superintendent of schools. The superintendent search process that was just completed did not result in the successful selection of a new superintendent of schools. As a result, the Board of Education will re-open the search. The Board will meet with the Erie 1 BOCES District Superintendent, Mr. Donald Ogilvie, to determine its next step in identification and selection of a new school superintendent. Details regarding the re-opened search process and timeline will be announced to staff and community as soon as they are finalized.
• Filling the seat of Board President, Michael Dallessandro, who stepped down from office effective July 1, 2006. The Board appreciates the time Mr. Dallessandro has dedicated to Board service, and expects to discuss the process for identifying a successor to fill the one year remaining on his term (expires June 30, 2007), at its next regular meeting on July 24, 2006.
"Important groundwork has been accomplished, which will be valuable as we dedicate the summer months to refocus and refine the superintendent search," said Board President, Richard Little. "The selection of a school superintendent - an individual who is a leader responsible for guiding, inspiring and directing an entire school district - is probably the most important decision a school board can make. We look forward to the process and to the involvement of staff and community as we work to identify the next superintendent of the Grand Island Central School District."
Board of Education Meeting - Monday, July 10, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, July 10, 2006 in the District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. The Board will most likely go into Executive Session right after opening the meeting.
Board of Education Reorganization Meeting Agenda - Thursday, July 6, 2006
A School Board Reorganization Meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 6, 2006 in the District Office Board Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Reorganization Meeting Agenda 7/6/06
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Thursday, July 6, 2006
A School Board Meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 6, 2006 immediately following the Reorganizational Meeting in the District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for Regular School Board Meeting Agenda 7/6/06
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, June 26, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, June 26, 2006 in the High School Senior Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 6/26/06
Island Student Artists Attend Unveiling of Their Work At Children's Hospital - "Gallery of Giving" - 2006
Photos by Mark Gorton - Click for larger view
BUFFALO, NEW YORK – Fifty-two student artists from the Grand Island school district who will have their artwork on display for patients, visitors, medical staff and others at Women & Children’s Hospital, attended an unveiling of their work on Saturday morning, June 17, 2006.
This student exhibition and other artwork on display are part of a “Gallery of Giving” at Women & Children’s Hospital, a showcase by the Art Committee at the Hospital. The Art Committee is comprised of artists, teachers, staff members and other volunteers with the mission of creating an environment that is welcoming and therapeutic for patients, their families and those who provide health care for them.
During this unveiling of artwork, all of the student artists received a certificate of appreciation for their participation. Each of the students’ artwork may also be viewed on the Women & Children’s Hospital web site at www.wchob.org/Art.
“On behalf of the Art Committee at Women & Children’s Hospital we would like to thank the student artists for sharing their works of art,” said Maureen Heimerl, Director of Ambulatory Services and who coordinates the Art Committee at Women & Children’s Hospital. “We also are grateful to art teachers throughout the school district and so many other volunteers throughout the community for being so enthusiastic in helping us create what we hope will be an ongoing exhibition.”
The Art Committee chose to display the student exhibit first in the Kaleida Café at Women & Children’s Hospital, where hundreds of patient families, visitors, medical and support staff and others gather daily.
The Art Committee at WCHOB was launched in October 2003 for the purpose of developing a high quality collection of children’s art for display at the hospital.
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, June 12, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, June 12, 2006 in the District office, 1100 Ransom Road. The meeting will be preceded by a Retiree Reception at 6:00 p.m. in the High School Foyer Area. Click for School Board Agenda 6/12/06
Board of Education Public Sessions - 2006
Public sessions of the school board will be held at 6 p.m. June 5 and June 6, 2006. Click for School Board Public Sessions for more information.
Board of Education Agenda - Tuesday, May 30, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2006 in the District Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 5/30/06
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, May 22, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, May 22, 2006 in the Board of Education Meeting Room – HS 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 5/22/06
School Budget Approved As Voters Turn out in Record Numbers - 2006
Grand Island voters, on Tuesday, May 16, 2006, passed the school district budget of $45.6 million in a 2065 - 1999 vote. The purchase of six (6) replacement buses also passed (2158 - 1870). Elected were George E. Casey, Glenn J. Bobeck and James T. Hanna to the three open seats on the Board of Education. Election day brought out an all time high of 4,106 voters. Following are the totals for the School Board election:
George E. Casey - 2437
Glenn J. Bobeck - 2386
James T. Hanna - 2306
Busy Polls For School Budget Vote At High School - 2006
Click for larger view
Jodi Robinson Photos
The Grand Island School District poll area for the budget vote was a busy place on Tuesday morning, May 16, 2006. There were lots of voters coming in and out through the raindrops to decide the fate of next year's school budget. The Grand Island District Art Show, "Art in the Air," is on display in the Viking Mall just outside the school gym. The very talented artists from all district schools have their special work, in all mediums, exhibited.
Community Ed. Sponsors Summer Sports Camp - 2006
High School Physical Education teacher Daneen Gallagher will be running a sports camp this summer at Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road. The camp is for children in grades 2-7. The program, sponsored by the Community Education Department and running from June 26th through July 28th, may be attended all day, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or participants may sign up for 1/2 days (8 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1-5 p.m.). The cost is $100.00 per week (full day), $55.00 per week (half day), and those attending are asked to bring a lunch and swimming gear. Activities will include soccer, basketball, lacrosse, archery, rock climbing, badminton, frisbee, baseball, etc. There will be swimming every day. Contact the Community Education Department at 773-8864 for registration and information.
GI School District Is New York State Title I District - May 2006
May 11, 2006 . . .Dr. Thomas Ramming, superintendent of Grand Island Central School District, received a letter of congratulations from the State Education Department President Richard P. Mills. Click "School District Named NYS Title I District".
School Board Election Information - 2006
Click "School Board Election Information" as published, in part, in the Thursday, May 11, 2006 Buffalo News.
Academic Achievement Improves at Grand Island - 2006
Monday, May 8, 2006 . . .Almost four years ago, the Board of Education identified improving academic achievement as an overarching, long-term goal for the District. This week we received substantial evidence that we are achieving this goal. Click "Academic Achievement Improves" for complete school district story.
Grand Island Named To Newsweek's Top 1000 High Schools List - 2006
Newsweek Magazine has named the top 1000 high schools in the nation and Grand Island High School, Grand Island, New York has made the list. According to Newsweek, "At the heart of the magazine's ratings is how well U.S. high schools prepare students for college." Click for Island School In Newsweek Top 1000 Schools and scroll down for Grand Island High School
Board of Education Workshop Agenda - Monday, May 8, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, May 8, 2006 in the Board of Education Meeting Room – HS 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 5/8/06
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, May 1, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, May 1, 2006 in the Grand Island High School District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 5/1/06
School District Teacher Bobbie Frisoni Retiring - April 2006
Bobbie Frisoni
Grand Island High School teacher Bobbie Frisoni has announced that she will retire at the end of the school year.
Miss Frisoni has been employed as a faculty member in the Grand Island High School for 33 years. As an educational leader in the district, she has served in many capacities - as an instrumental figure and chair of GISBA (the Grand Island School Business Alliance), as the School-to-Work Coordinator, and as the Program Coordinator for the Business Department. She has also served nine years as yearbook advisor and in that capacity earned an award from the American Scholastic Press Association.
Bobbi’s impact upon the Grand Island School District can be noted through various programs such as Job Search, Shadow Day, and Corporate Bowl. She has led many professional development seminars in Career Development and Occupational Studies for the Island's elementary faculty and also served as a Junior Class Advisor, and as a member of several search committees.
On any day, Bobbie may be found coordinating various programs and teaching in the High School Internship Program. In this program, students create individual Business and Education Employability Portfolios. Under her auspices, Grand Island students have won countless awards when competing against other Western New York students.
Bobbie has contributed her time to volunteer organizations such as Make-A-Wish, The Lupus Foundation, and Relay for Life. She displays the unique characteristic of motivating students to get involved in these programs and ultimately makes a difference in all who come in contact with her. Bobbie has been awarded many different honors for her continued commitment to the students of Grand Island High School, including Celebration of Inspiration, Educator of the Week, and Who's Who Among American High School Teachers.
Her positive outlook, her energy, and her dedication to the school district will be missed.
Board of Education Agenda - Tuesday, April 25, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 4/25/06
School Board Candidates Announced - 2006
Thursday, April 20, 2006 . . .The School District has received petitions from three Island residents who will run for the three open board of education positions. They are incumbent George Casey, 1596 Bedell Road; Glenn J. Bobeck, 219 Fareway Lane; and Jim Hanna, 515 Baseline Road. Petitions to run for the school board were due by 5:00 p.m. Monday, April 17. Information on the candidates will be posted as it becomes available.
Incumbents David Goris and Neil Seaman chose not to run.
The School District Budget/Trustee Vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 16th in the Grand Island High School Gym, 1100 Ransom Road.
School Budget/Trustee Vote - 2006
The School District Budget/Trustee Vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 16th in the Grand Island High School Gym, 1100 Ransom Road.
Student Art Exhibit Opens - April 2006
St. Stephen's School Artwork
Left: Sidway School; right: Huth Road
Kaegebein School
Left: Veronica Connor Middle School; right: High School
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click for larger view
The Friends of the Grand Island Memorial Library and the Grand Island Schools Art Department opened the 10th anniversary of student art exhibits with a reception held Thursday, April 6, 2006. The artwork will continue to be displayed in the Community Room of the Grand Island Memorial Library throughout the month of April. For more information on the exhibit, click Tenth Anniversary Student Art Display
The following photos were submitted by Diane Hassan - click for larger view.
Charlotte Sidway 1st grade student Lindsay Proctor's pastel and liquid watercolor
Veronica Connor Middle School 8th grade student Zaeem Shah's pastel flower picture
Kaegebein Elementary School 3rd grade student Isabel Dengos holds her watercolor tempera
Kaegebein Elementary School 5th grade student Andrew Sander stands next to his ceramic, white swan sculpture
Charlotte Sidway School kindergarten student Sam DiBello and his Mom next to his 3D tissue paper collage
School District Appoints Anzalone Grand Island High School Principal - April 2006
Sandra Anzalone
Following a lengthy and thorough search process, Sandra Anzalone has been appointed as principal of Grand Island High School effective this June.
Mrs. Anzalone, a resident of North Collins, is currently an assistant principal at Williamsville East High School and previously served as a high school special education teacher in the Springville-Griffith School District. Her educational background consists of a BA in Geology from SUNY at Buffalo, a MS in Education from SUC at Buffalo, and graduate coursework in Educational Leadership at Canisius College.
She joins the district with a commitment to preserve what is currently in place at the high school – including a safe environment, strong music/arts/sports programs, and a collegial atmosphere. Mrs. Anzalone is also very interested in looking at the academic program and, working with staff, parents, and students, leading the effort to continue to improve student achievement.
A reception where parents and staff will have the opportunity to meet Mrs. Anzalone will be scheduled in the near future.
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, April 10, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 4/10/06
School District Clerk/Superintendent Secretary to Retire - March 2006
Nancy Sandford
Mrs. Nancy Sandford announced her retirement at the end of June
to the Board of Education at the Monday, March 27th Board of
Education Meeting. Mrs. Sandford has served with the board for
13 ½ years, while working for the district for 32 years.
School Board Vote/Absentee Ballots - 2006
On Tuesday, May 16, 2006 Grand Island residents will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the school district budget vote and trustees. For those voters who qualify, absentee ballots will be available. Of course, there are specific reasons for the use of absentee ballots. Click for Absentee Ballot Qualifications.
Tenth Anniversary Student Art Display - 2006
Sidway Art Teacher Theresa Barnack and student artists Lindsay Proctor (grade 1), Alexandria Casseri, Sam DiBello, Jenette DiLaura, Kyle Podgorny and Arthur Meaney (kindergarten)
Photo by student teacher Sara Klaes - Click for larger view
In honor of the ten-year collaboration between the Art Department of the Grand Island Schools and the Friends of the Grand Island Memorial Library, students enrolled in grades K-12 in district schools as well as St. Stephen School students, will present an exhibit of their art works beginning with an opening reception on Thursday, April 6th at 7 p.m. The reception and exhibit will take place at the library, 1715 Bedell Road.
This community partnership began in the Spring of 1996 when former Grand Island art teacher, Martha Rogala, approached the Friends of the Library, the former Grand Island Art Society and the Grand Island School District about providing frames and a public venue allowing students the opportunity to display their work in a community forum. Since that time, hundreds of Grand Island’s finest young artists have had the opportunity to display their two-dimensional and three-dimensional creations in a professional manner on a monthly basis, in the community room and display cases of the library.
During the school year, schools within the district feature works by their students on a monthly basis. In the summer, the works of St. Stephen School students are displayed. As a sign of their continued commitment to Grand Island’s art students on this tenth anniversary, the Friends of the Library have recently donated more frames, so an even larger number of students may experience the wonderful opportunity of displaying their work publicly.
The works displayed in this exhibit represent a wide range of media and reflect the skills attained by students of all ages and grade levels. It is hoped that the viewers of this exhibit will not only become more familiar with the beautiful artworks that Grand Island students are creating, but also become aware of the creative, cognitive and expressive processes involved in attaining those goals. The ways in which students are meeting the rigorous New York State Learning Standards for the Visual Arts are evident in the display. Students regularly create and respond to works of art, get to know and use art materials and resources and understand the cultural dimensions and contributions to the arts.
Young artists, their families and teachers, Friends of the Grand Island Memorial Library and school administrators will come together for a reception to celebrate the ten year successful collaboration on the evening of April 6th. The public is also cordially invited throughout the month of April to visit the library, view the display and share pride in our young peoples’ diverse, creative accomplishments.
Collaborating art teachers participating in this project are: Theresa Barnack (Sidway), Alexann Incao (Kaegebein), Pete Sloan (Huth Road), Andrew Dulak and Nora Klein (Veronica Connor Middle School), Dana Allen, Megan Gaiek, Mark Tollner, Cindy Wynne (Grand Island High School), and Susan Mann (St. Stephen School).
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, March 27, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 27, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 3/27/06
Schools Closed For Superintendent's Day - 2006
Grand Island School District schools will be closed on Friday, March 31, 2006 due to a Superintendent's Day. The dates do not appear on the school calendar as they had not been scheduled at print time.
Interim Superintendent - 2006
Dr. Lawrence J. Zacher
School District Press Release - March 15, 2006 . . .The Grand Island Central School District Board of Education has appointed Dr. Lawrence J. Zacher as Interim Superintendent to assist in guiding the District through the first part of the 2006-07 school year while a new superintendent to succeed Dr. Thomas Ramming is selected. Dr. Ramming announced his retirement effective June 30, 2006.
Dr. Zacher comes to the District after having served as an interim superintendent in five other school districts. He most recently served as interim in the Lake Shore Central School District and has been an interim superintendent in the Springville Griffith and Gowanda Central School Districts in Western New York. Dr. Zacher was Superintendent of the Whitesboro Central School District for eight years prior to his retirement in 2002.
Dr. Zacher began his career as a science teacher in Wappingers Falls in 1966. He became Secondary Principal at Honeoye Central School in 1979 and served there until 1991 when he became Superintendent in Mayville, NY. After three years he became superintendent at Whitesboro.
His Bachelor's and Master's degrees both came from SUNY New Paltz and he earned his Doctorate in Education from the University of Montana.
Dr. Zacher resides in Whitesboro and has four grown children. His oldest, a daughter, has Down Syndrome and lives at home. He also has three sons, one a pilot, another a West Point graduate now working at Morgan Stanley and his youngest, a Navy pilot stationed in Washington.
"I'm looking forward to serving the District", Zacher said in a telephone conversation. I'm not just holding the seat warm for the next superintendent. There are important issues with which the District needs to deal over the next several months. The important task of moving a quality district forward can not be interrupted."
Dr. Zacher offers the District a wealth of experience in a number of areas and plans to work on establishing an improved credibility with the community. "I look on my role as Interim Superintendent as transitional," he said. "I hope my efforts will pave the way for the next superintendent and allow him/her to be successful."
Dr. Zacher's contract is expected to run from the end of June through the end of October, or until a new superintendent is hired.
New Contract With Support Staff Includes Insurance Savings - 2006
School District Press Release - March 14, 2006 . . .The Grand Island Board of Education has approved a new 3-year agreement with its support staff that will save the District over $150,000 a year in health insurance costs. Employees, who currently have the option of choosing among three different carriers, will move to Independent Health Flex Fit effective in April. They will begin contributing to the cost of health insurance in July.
Other changes to the contract will result in hourly increases of $.54, $.56, and $.57 for each of three years and an increase in the number of hours employees must work in order to be eligible for health insurance.
In January, the Board approved a contract with the Grand Island Teachers’ Association that moves teachers to the Flex Fit plan and saves the District nearly $400,000 a year.
Dunbar Appointed Sidway Principal - 2006
Denise Dunbar
School District Press Release - March 14, 2006 . . . Former Grand Island High School graduate, Mrs. Denise Dunbar, has been appointed as principal of Sidway Elementary effective April 24, 2006.
Mrs. Dunbar is currently the principal at Pembroke Primary School and joins Grand Island after 20 years of teaching and administrative experience in elementary schools. Her educational background consists of a BS in Psychology from SUC at Potsdam, an MS in Early Childhood Education from SUC at Geneseo, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Administration from SUC at Oswego. She joins the district with a strong background in Early Literacy and Everyday Math.
A reception where parents and staff will have the opportunity to meet Mrs. Dunbar will be scheduled for later this month.
Huth Elementary “Lock-down” - 2006
School District Press Release - March 10, 2006 . . . Earlier today, some students reported seeing a person outside of the Huth Elementary holding something that looked like a “mini gun.” The person did not enter the building but was reported to have entered a wooded area east of the building.
The State Police and Sheriff’s Department are now searching the area around the school.
In order to ensure the safety of students and staff, the building was in “lock down” and parents were asked to remain off school grounds until the “all clear” is given.
Students were dismissed at their regular time. However, dismissal procedures were altered to insure student safety. Students attending the afterschool “Y” program at Huth were transported and attended the program at Sidway.
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, March 13, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 13, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 3/13/06
School Board Petitions Available - 2006
Petitions to run for the Grand Island Board of Education are available from Nancy Sandford, District Clerk, beginning Monday, March 20, 2006 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. There are three (3) three-year terms to be filled.
The qualifications to run for the Board of Education are:
(1) you must be a citizen of the U.S.
(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
(4) you must be able to read and write.
Petitions must be returned to the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2006.
School Board Business Meeting - Monday, March 13, 2006
A Regular School Board Business Meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 13, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. The workshop has been changed to a regular business meeting. The agenda will be posted as soon as available.
Board of Education Agenda - Monday, February 27, 2006
A School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, February 27, 2006 in the Grand Island High School – Board of Education Room 108, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for School Board Agenda 2/27/06
Arrest Made in School Threat - 2006
School District Press Release . . .A 15-year-old Grand Island High School student has been arrested in connection with a phone threat made against the school on Tuesday morning (Feb. 14, 2006).
The Erie County Sheriff’s Department responded immediately to the 911 call and, working with Chris Pyc, Grand Island’s School Resource Officer, made an arrest that afternoon.
The call is not believed to be related to a threatening call made last week.
For unrelated but similar incident, click "Feb. 6 Incident."
Schools Closed February 20 Through February 24 - 2006
Grand Island School District schools will be closed from Monday, February 20th through Friday, February 24th for a mid-winter recess.
Ramming Addresses Parents Regarding Response To Bomb Threat - February 2006
Monday, February 6, 2006 . . . Schools Superintendent Dr. Thomas Ramming addressed the parents of the Grand Island School District through a letter stating the details of the response to a reported bomb threat on Monday, February 6, 2006 at the high school/middle school complex, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for "Dr. Ramming's Letter"
Board of Education Workshop Agenda - Monday, February 13, 2006
For the workshop agenda for the 7 p.m. School Board Workshop on Monday, February 13, 2006 at Charlotte Sidway Fitness Room, 2451 Baseline Road, click for School Board Workshop Agenda 2/13/06
School Lock Down Update - February 2006
Monday, February 6, 2006 . . .An early morning lock down was lifted at 10:30 a.m. today without incident at the Grand Island Central School District’s main high school/middle school complex at 1100 Ransom Road. The lock down had been initiated in response to a bomb threat phoned into 911 at 7:10 a.m. “Lock down” is a standard school security response that secures students and staff within a building and restricts any unauthorized entry until a situation is deemed clear.
The Sheriff’s Department, State Police, and NFTA were on site with bomb-sniffing dogs and conducted a sweep of the complex. The district’s middle school students, who were not in the building at the time of lock down, were transported to Huth and Kaegebein Elementary Schools until the sweep was completed. These students have been returned to their regular classes and the school day is proceeding normally.
District officials praised the efforts of the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, State Police, NFTA, and the Grand Island Police in working together to address the situation in a timely and professional manner.
Lockdown At Middle/High School - February 2006
The Grand Island Central School District has initiated a lock down at its main high school/middle school complex, 1100 Ransom Road in response to a bomb threat phoned into 911 at 7:10 a.m. this morning (Monday, February 6, 2006).
All students and staff are safe and secure. The Sheriff’s Department and State Police are on site and are currently conducting a full sweep of the building. The district’s middle school students, who were not in the building at the time of lock down, are being held on buses until the sweep is completed.
Grand Island is the most recent of a number of area schools that have received bomb threats in the past several weeks.
“Lock down” is a standard school security response that secures students and staff within a building and restricts any unauthorized entry until a situation is deemed clear.
An announcement will be made when the authorities conclude their sweep and give the all clear. (Scroll up for updated story)
Schools Closed February 3, March 31 - 2006
Grand Island School District schools will be closed on Friday, February 3, 2006 and on Friday, March 31, 2006 due to Superintendent's Days. The dates do not appear on the school calendar as they had not been scheduled at print time. Click for the school board approved School Calendar 2005-06.
Sidway, Huth, Kaegebein and Connor Middle schools will attend classes for half the day on Thursday, February 16 due to a Staff Development day.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Monday, January 23, 2006
7 p.m. - Board Of Education Room, – Room 108 1100 Ransom Road
Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 1/23/06
School Superintendent Dr. Ramming Announces Retirement - January 2006
School Superintendent Thomas Ramming announced his retirement from Grand Island effective July 1.
Neal Seaman, Vice-President of the Board of Education, stated that the Board accepted Dr. Ramming’s retirement with “extreme regret.”
Ramming, whose career in public education spans 32 years, was appointed superintendent in November 2002. His plans for the future include continuing to teach at the college level and educational consulting.
The Board will meet in the near future to develop a plan for selecting his successor. Click Buffalo News Story 1/26/06 by Mary B. Pasciak
School Board Accepts Former Sidway Principal's Resignation - January 2006
The Grand Island Board of Education, at a special meeting Friday, January 13, 2006, accepted the resignation of former Charlotte Sidway Elementary School Principal Frank Cannata, effective immediately. Board President Michael Dallessandro said, "I'm happy we can finally put this matter behind us." He referred all questions regarding the matter to David Farmello, attorney for the school district. The search process for a new principal will begin immediately with the hope of having a permanent replacement in place by the end of April. Henry Peters has been serving as interim principal for the past year.
The School Board also accepted the resignation of James McIntyre, teaching assistant, effective in October. McIntyre had been under investigation regarding various allegations made by parents of middle school students, however disciplinary charges were never filed.
School Board Approves GI Teachers Contract - January 2006
The Grand Island Board of Education, at a special meeting Friday, January 13, 2006, approved a two-year extension of the contract with the teachers' association through 2008-2009. The contract extension was approved by a vote of 5-0-2 at a special meeting of the Board held January 13. The current contract was set to expire in August 2007.
According to district officials, the agreement will cut health insurance costs by nearly $400,000 a year effective in February 2006. The savings will be achieved by moving the teachers to the Independent Health Flex Fit plan.
The extension, which takes effect in September 2007, increases contractual salary schedules by a total of 2.6%, provides a $500 stipend to teachers with more than 20 years of service, and requires teachers to contribute to the cost of health insurance.
Board President Michael Dallessandro thanked the Grand Island Teachers' Association for its willingness to open negotiations and move to less expensive health insurance before the expiration of the current contract. He described the agreement as a "win-win-win" in that it helps to address the interests and concerns of the community, teachers and district.
The teachers' association approved the agreement on January 12, 2006.
Special Board of Education Meeting Agenda - Friday, January 13, 2006
4:45 p.m. - District Office Conference Room, 1100 Ransom Road
Click for Special School Board Meeting Agenda 1/13/06
Community Education Classes - Winter 2006
Grand Island Central School District Community Education Classes for Winter 2006 will begin January 30, 2006. Brochures have been mailed to all Grand Island households. Classes are being offered in the following areas: Fine Arts & Crafts, Fitness & Fun, Career Opportunities and Certification, Special Interest & Self-Improvement, Finance, Just For Kids, Online Courses, and Tours. Registration forms may be downloaded at www.k12.ginet.org. Checks are to be made payable to "Grand Island schools" and must accompany the registration form. All mail registrations must reach the school no later than January 30, 2006 and will be given priority according to the date received in the Community Education office. Registration forms are to be sent to Grand Island School District, Attention Community Education Dept., 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.
Inquires for information will be accepted between 10:45 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Friday at 773-8864.
Board of Education Meeting Agenda - January 9, 2006
7 p.m. - Huth Road Elementary School Cafeteria
Click for School Board Meeting Agenda 1/9/06
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