District Newsletter

SIDNEY
www.sidneycsd.org Central Schools
November 2008 Volume 12, Issue 1

Join Us In Rachel’s Challenge

On November 4, our Middle and High surround themselves with positive influences, it is
School students experienced a moving reflected in their actions.
assembly program about a girl named Rachel firmly believed that small acts of kindness can
Rachel Scott. Rachel Joy Scott was the have a huge impact. Rachel, in fact, went out of her way
first person killed at Columbine High to be kind to students with disabilities, new students,
School on April 20, 1999. Rachel’s acts of and students that were picked on or put down. Several
kindness and compassion coupled with examples of how her kindness made a huge impact on
the contents of her six diaries have become the foundation others were provided.
for one of the most life-changing school programs in Finally, Rachel believed that if one person were to go
America, Rachel’s Challenge. out of his/her way to show compassion, that it would start
Rachel’s Challenge, designed to motivate our students a chain reaction of the same.
to positive change in the way they treat others, was People will never know how far
sponsored by the Sidney Middle School PTSO and a little kindness can go.
supported through generous donations from MWV, Sidney The Sidney Middle School
United Way, Sons of the American Revolution, Elks Lodge, PTSO would like to thank
Rotary, and VFW. Powerful footage of Rachel's life and the o u r g e n e ro u s s u p p o r t e r s
Columbine tragedy held students, as well as community for enabling us to bring this
members, spell-bound during school assemblies and powerful program to Sidney
during an evening presentation. and encourage our students
Students were asked to accept Rachel’s Challenge to and community to continue the
eliminate prejudice, dare to dream, choose their influences, chain reaction of kindness.
to use kind words, and to start a chain reaction with More information about
family and friends. Members of the Middle School Peer this program can be found at
Mediation and Student Council were also trained on how rachelschallenge.com.
to continue the momentum from the assemblies and form
a Friends of Rachel Club.
Rachel encouraged people to not prejudge others.
She felt that if you looked for the best in others, that you
would indeed find it. Often times we look for the worst in
others and too often find it. Rachel believed that you could
eliminate prejudice by looking for the best in others.
A Harvard study was cited in reference to goal setting.
Only 3% of students actually wrote their goals down vs.
97% that did not. Ten years later, the same 3% of students
earned 10 times more than the other 97% combined and
were considered to be people that clearly were making a
difference in their world. Students were encouraged to
dream and set goals to accomplish those dreams and to
keep a journal so that they could reflect upon the progress
that they had made towards their dream.
Students were asked to carefully choose their influences
as the input often determines the output. If our students
 Superintendent’s Message Autumn Textures Poetry
At the Elementary School,
Finding Balance . . . teachers Ms. Neal (art) and
A Continuing Challenge! Mrs. Fisher (fourth grade),
are collaborating with writing
We all share the same priority—the education of our
and art. Mrs. Fisher's students
students. They are our future, and it is our responsibility to
have been learning to write
give them the best education possible. Our District’s mission
free verse poetry with the theme being
is challenging students to achieve their greatest potential, and we
Autumn Textures. They have done a beautiful
strive to continually improve how we meet their needs both
job learning about two of the important
in and out of the classroom.
traits in good writing: word choice and voice.
Today we are faced with troubling economic times. Families
To illustrate their poetry, they are working
are struggling to make ends meet, and the school district is
with Ms. Neal to sketch landscape drawings
facing the same problems. The state budget is in crisis, and
and then using watercolor paints to complete
there are concerns that our state aid will be impacted. An article
their illustrations. They learned about using
in the New York State School Boards Association’s publication
foreground, middle ground and background
On Board reported the following on November 3:
in their landscape to create
Governor David Paterson says the potential budget gap
the illusion of distance.
facing New York next year has soared to $12.5 billion. That’s
They also learned to mix the
up 95% since an official July 30 budget update and represents
paints with water to make
almost 10% of the total budget. Paterson, in an October 28
them transparent. Here is an
fiscal update, said that to deal with the projected deficit,
example of one student's poem:
“there will be hard and painful (spending) cuts. There is no
segment of this budget that will not be cut.” Thus far, school
aid has escaped budget cuts. It had been scheduled to grow Autumn Textures
by $2.2 billion next year. By Alexis Palmeter
Meanwhile, state officials said that the Employee’s
I like the feel of fall…
Retirement System, which covers most non-instructional
Fall, like shivering, wilting,
school employees, has lost about $30 billion since March when
colorless, flowers in the cold
it was worth $154 billion. The state’s Teacher Retirement
autumn wind.
System fund has lost $7 billion since June when it was worth
Fall leaves, yellow, brown and different
$95 billion. Those losses could eventually lead to higher
shades of orange and red crunch and
employer contributions.
crackle beneath my feet as I walk along
Paterson has ordered the state Legislature into session on
the sidewalk.
November 18 to make further cuts to this year’s budget that
Orange and dark shades of red chipmunks
has already been trimmed by about $1 billion. The governor
and squirrels scurry along the yard to
has said that he wants another $2 billion in cuts to this year’s
gather brown, crunchy acorns for winter.
budget.
Colorful birds and their beautiful baby
As we said last year, we have a responsibility to find
chicks fly south for winter.
balance between the cost of providing an outstanding
Fall winds bring cold white frosts.
educational program and anticipated revenue. While it was
Bright colorful leaves, bring bundled up
a difficult year last year, our budget forecast for this year
children with tan, oak handled leave rakes.
is worse. Our preliminary review identifies a deeper gap
Juicy, tan, and white smoked turkey and
between expenditures and anticipated revenues than we have
chicken dinners bring in people for the
ever experienced before looking at the possibility of no state
jolly holidays.
aid increase for next year.
Fall, brightly colored season.
Therefore, we will once again have to face some difficult
decisions. We will examine our budget closely and
strive to find balance without impacting our programs.
However, we anticipate that programs may be impacted next
year due to the gravity of the situation. If you have ideas on
possible budget cuts, I would welcome your input. We will be
scheduling community forums in the future, and I encourage
you to attend.
—Sandra M. Cooper, Superintendent of Schools

2 Sidney Central School District

 Riders of the Month
September Outstanding Riders of the Month are:
Elementary School
Cody Rowden Daniel Calkins
Zaniel Burrows Hailly Gopel
Kevin Bockus Maggie Schott
Danika Harvey Crystal Bivar
Glennda Goble Randy Hughs
Middle School
Shana Gascon
High School
Josh Taft Nam Kim
Board Corner
It takes an entire community to raise a child—African proverb
Many of us have heard this adage before. But at this
time of year, we find it to be particularly relevant. Another
school year is underway, and this year we have our first
class of pre-schoolers under the new Pre-K program. For
them, it is just the start of an exciting journey. At the other
extreme, we have the class of 2009. For them, this will be
their final year in high school before they move on to work,
join the military, or continue their education elsewhere.
In between those two groups are over a thousand other
students. Each and every one of them with hopes and fears,
special talents and most of all, dreams for the future.
Each of us has an important part to play in helping our
children realize those dreams. No one would deny that a
great teacher can forever change a life. But even the best
teacher cannot do it aIl alone. It takes parents, teachers,
administrators, support staff, neighbors, community
leaders, board members and friends all working together
to help make sure that those dreams are realized.
As the recent financial crisis has pointed out, it can
indeed be a cold, cruel world out there. Resources are
being stretched at every level from families trying to afford
food, to those watching their college savings evaporate . . .
all of us are feeling the impact of tougher times.
As a district, we are not immune to many of those
same challenges. Costs for transportation and heating
have seen significant increases despite wise purchasing
and conservation efforts. Health care costs are continuing
to rise.
And as we all know, New York State’s finances are in
disarray as well. The crisis on Wall Street and its impact
on the State’s fortunes have made a bad situation even
worse. Governor Paterson has flatly stated that significant
budget cuts must be made across the board. That is
certain to translate into less State aid for our district going
forward.
But all is not lost if we keep that old proverb foremost
in our hearts and minds.
Sidney Central School District
Confidential Reporting
TROOP C of the New York State Police reminds
people of the creation of the toll-free line for the
confidential reporting of potentially dangerous
situations. This system, housed at Troop C
Headquarters, is answered by a machine which
is regularly checked by police officials. This
system is not designated for callers reporting an
immediate threat; such calls should be reported
to “911” or other appropriate emergency service
providers. The phone number, 1-866-535-5599 is
available on posters placed in the school districts
and also through school district publications.
For it is in difficult times such as these that we
come to realize the true value of the collective human
spirit. It is a value far greater than any amount of
money. If we continue to work together to help each
of our students realize his or her potential, there is
no obstacle that cannot be overcome.
Although the school year has only just begun,
in a few short weeks we will be starting the budget
process once again. We feel that last year’s efforts
to solicit input and communicate recommendations
went extremely well. Many of the suggestions made
in staff and community presentations were reflected
in the final proposed budget. Some decisions were
more difficult than others, but no one can deny that
it was a collective effort made after considerable
discussion. Most importantly, the voters supported
the output of that process.
As representatives of the community at large, the
Board of Education’s role is to put a budget before the
voters that is fiscally responsible while at the same
time allowing us to achieve our shared goal of helping
each student realize his or her full potential.
Looking ahead at what is certain to be an even
more challenging year, we ask for you to again
become engaged and participate in the process.
Community presentations will be held in the coming
months well in advance of any final proposed budget
and your participation is critical.
It is our collective responsibility to make the
decisions that will help turn our children’s dreams
into reality. No one group, including the Board
of Education, can accomplish this alone. Today’s
economic crisis will make it even more important for
us to work in concert with that shared objective as
our ultimate goal. As another old adage states, two
heads are better than one.
—Gary Schoonover, Board of Education
3
 Homecoming 2008

NYS Exams in Middle School

Below are dates to help you plan appointments during the school year for your Middle School student.
January 20-23—Grades 6, 7 & 8 ELA Exam
March 9-13—Grades 6, 7 & 8 Math Exam
April 8-May 6—Grade 8 Science Performance Test
April 29-May 8—Grade 8 Science Written Test
June 2-3—Grade 8 Social Studies Test
You can help us increase our attendance during these exam periods by planning appointments for after
1:00 p.m. on the above dates. Thank you in advance for your consideration and cooperation.
Middle School After School Help Program
The Middle School After School Help Program started on Tuesday, November 4. It will be on Tuesdays
and Thursdays from 3:15-4:15 p.m. There will be a late bus for those who are normally bus students.

4 Sidney Central School District

 District Communication Guidelines
Frequently, parents and other community members request help in knowing the best way to communicate
with the school. The communications guideline chart below will serve as a helpful resource. By contacting the
following people in the prescribed order, questions will be answered more efficiently.

For Questions About 1st Contact 2nd Contact 3rd Contact 4th Contact

Academics Teacher Guidance Counselor Building Principal Superintendent

Athletics Coach Athletic Director Superintendent

Behavior Teacher Building Principal Superintendent

BOE Policies District Clerk Superintendent Board of Education

Budget Business Manager Superintendent

Supt. Bldgs. &

Building Use Building Principal Business Manager Superintendent
Grounds

Cafeteria Cafeteria Manager Business Manager Superintendent

Classroom Procedures Teacher Building Principal Superintendent

Co-Curricular Advisor Building Principal Superintendent

Dist. Curriculum
Curriculum Teacher Building Principal Superintendent
Coordinator
Supt. Bldgs. &
Facilities Business Manager Superintendent
Grounds

Health Office Building Nurse Building Principal Superintendent

Scheduling Teacher Guidance Counselor Building Principal Superintendent

District Admin. for

Special Education Teacher CSE Chair Superintendent
Special Programs
Director of
Transportation Bus Driver Business Manager Superintendent
Transportation

Telephone Numbers
Board of Education......................... 563-2135, ext. 4275
Superintendent............................... 563-2125, ext. 4275
Business Manager........................... 563-2135, ext. 4271
District Clerk................................... 563-2135, ext. 4275
Transportation................................................. 563-3162
Buildings and Grounds.................. 563-2135, ext. 4232
High School..................................... 563-2135, ext. 4250
High School Guidance................... 563-2135, ext. 4256
High School Nurse......................... 563-2135, ext. 4254
Middle School................................. 563-2135, ext. 4226
Middle School Guidance................ 563-2135, ext. 4113
Middle School Nurse..................... 563-2135, ext. 4231
Elementary School.......................... 563-2135, ext. 4200
Elementary Guidance..................... 563-2135, ext. 4200
Elementary Nurse........................... 563-2135, ext. 4204
Special Education........................... 563-2135, ext. 4044
School Lunch Program................... 563-2135, ext. 4264
Athletic Office................................. 563-2135, ext. 4740
Curriculum Office.......................... 563-2135, ext. 4735

Sidney Central School District 5

 Notes from the School Nurses
The district’s School Health Services program supports
your student’s academic success by promoting health
in the school setting. One way that we provide care for
your student is by performing the health screenings as
mandated by the State of New York.
During this school year, the following screenings will
be required or completed at school:
Vision
• Distance acuity for all newly entering students and
students in Kindergarten, Grades 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 10.
• Near vision acuity, hyperopia and color perception
screening for all newly entering students.
Hearing
• Hearing screening for all newly entering students and
students in Kindergarten, Grades 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10.
Scoliosis
• Scoliosis (spinal curvature) screening for all students
in Grades 5-9.
Health Appraisals
• A physical examination including Body Mass Index
and Weight Status Category Information is required
for all newly entering students and students in
Kindergarten, Grades 2, 4, 7 and 10.
A letter will be sent home if there are any findings on
the screening done at school that would cause concern or
need medical follow-up. Please call the school’s Health
Office if you have any questions or concerns.
Ruth Boyce—Elementary Nurse, 563-2135, ext. 4204
Susan Smith—MS Nurse, 563-2135, ext. 4231
Lynne Dionne—HS Nurse/Teacher, 563-2135, ext. 4254
SES Family Dinner Night
Families were treated to dinner and games on
September 22. We had a very large crowd of approximately
700 people. Everyone enjoyed a great time!
6 Sidney Central School District
Annual FERPA
Notification
Notice to parents and eligible
students of rights under the family
educational rights and privacy act.
To: Parents and Eligible Students of the Sidney
Central School District:
You are notified that you have the following
rights in relation to student records:
1. The right to inspect and review a student’s
educational records.
2. The school district shall limit the disclosure
of information contained in the student’s
education record except: (a) by prior written
consent of the student’s parents or an
eligible student, (b) directory information,
or (c) under certain limited circumstances,
as permitted by FERPA.
3. The right of a student’s parents or an eligible
student to seek to correct parts of the student’s
education records which he or she believes
to be inaccurate, misleading or in violation
of the student’s rights. These rights include
the right to a hearing to present evidence
that the records should be changed if the
district decides not to alter it according to the
parents’ or an eligible student’s request.
4. The right of any person to file a complaint
with the Department of Education if the
school district violates FERPA.
5. If either a student’s parents or an eligible
student desires to obtain copies of the policy
pertaining to student records, notification
should be presented to the appropriate
Building Principal, Sidney Central School
District, Sidney, New York 13838.
All rights and protections given to parents
under the FERPA and this policy transfer to the
student when he or she reaches age 18 or enrolls
in a post-secondary school. The student then
becomes an eligible student.
Swim Suits Needed
The pool is looking for 'gently used' swim
wear that can be used for students who forget
to bring their suits. For girls, we are looking
for one piece suits, sizes 5/6, 7/8 or larger.
For the boys we are looking for Bermuda styled
shorts in sizes Small to X-large. The suits can
be dropped off at the pool or the Elementary
School Office.
 Body Mass Index (BMI) and
Weight Status Reporting
The rapid increase in overweight children and
adolescents is generating widespread concern and
obesity is a problem of epidemic proportions in our
youth. Overweight and obesity are major risk factors
for chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes,
cardiovascular disease, hypertension, osteoporosis
and some cancers.
As part of a required school health examination, a
student is weighed and his/her height is measured.
These numbers are used to figure out the student’s
body mass index or ‘BMI’. The BMI helps the doctor
or nurse know if the student’s weight is in a healthy
range or is too high or too low. Recent changes to
the NYS Education Law require that BMI and weight
status group be included as part of the student’s
school health examination. Next year our district
will be required to report to the NYS Department
of Health information about our students’ weight
status group. Only summary information is required.
No names and no information about individual
students will be sent. However, you may choose to
have your child’s information excluded from this
survey report.
We hope you will agree to participate because
the information will help health officials develop
programs that make it easier for children to be
healthier.
Did You Know?
• Did you know that our School District
receives Federal funding based upon our
free and reduced mean numbers?
• Did you know that we could lower the tax
levy by increasing our free and reduced
meal numbers?
• Did you know that many families qualify for
free or reduced meals, but do not apply?
• Did you know that students receiving free
or reduced price breakfasts and/or lunches
are kept completely confidential due to our
computerized cash register system?
• Please take the time to fill out the paperwork
to see if your child is eligible for free and/
or reduced meals. In an effort to help
families take advantage of this benefit, we
are available to assist you in completing the
enclosed application. Please call 563-2135,
ext. 4264 to schedule a time to meet with us
confidentially, or stop by the District Office
(located in the HS). We look forward to
working with you.
Sidney Central School District
Community Aquatic Program
Fall Session (September 8-December 19)
Monday
Adult Lap Swim, 6:15-7:30 a.m.
Community Swim, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Tuesday
Adult Lap Swim, 6:15-7:30 a.m.
Wednesday
Adult Lap Swim, 6:15-7:30 a.m.
Community Swim, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Thursday
Adult Lap Swim, 6:15-7:30 a.m.
Friday
Adult Lap Swim, 6:15-7:30 a.m.
Community Swim, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Pool Use Fees
There are two options for the community use of the
SCSD Aquatic Center. You may pay on a per-use basis or
you may purchase a session pass valid for all community
swim times. The fees are as follows:
Session Pass Fees
Youth (Grades K-12).........................................$20
Adult................................................................. $30
Family*.............................................................. $50
Senior Citizen...................................................$20
A session pass can be purchased during any
community swim period.
Daily Use Fees
Youth (Grades K-12).......................................$1.00
Adult...............................................................$2.00
Family*............................................................$5.00
Senior Citizen................................................$1.00
*Family (2 adults and children in same household)
Program Guidelines
• All pool rules will be strictly enforced during
community swim programs and at the discretion of
the supervisor or lifeguard on duty.
• Swimmers are to provide their own towel and
appropriate swim suits.
• The District will not be held responsible for items
left in the locker rooms.
• Additionally, during community swim times, children
under the age of 14 years MUST be accompanied by
a responsible adult who is at least 18 years of age.
For the safety of everyone, parents are not to drop off
children and leave them at the pool.
The community aquatic program will follow the
school calendar and schedule. Therefore, the pool will
not be open when students: have a scheduled day off,
school has been closed, or after school activities have
been cancelled.
7
 New Faces in the Sidney School District
District Appointments
Kathryn Bailey
Kathryn was hired as a Curriculum
Coordinator. She received her B.A.
degree in English from Wells College
and her C.A.S. degree in Educational
Leadership from Syracuse University. Kathryn
is presently a doctoral student in Reading and
Language Arts at Syracuse University. Kathryn
has taught at the middle school level, she has
had experience as an administrative intern at the
high school level, she has had administrative and
teaching experience with developmental readers
and writers at the college level, and has worked
with early literacy interventions and programming
at the elementary level. Kathryn also has experience
with curriculum mapping and meeting with vertical
and horizontal teams of teachers and support staff
to build programming that maximizes opportunities
for student achievement.
Kathleen Langley
Kathleen was hired as an
Administrator for Special Programs.
She received her B.F.A. degree in Art
from Syracuse University. She received
her Master’s degree in Special Education from SUNY
Potsdam and her M.E. degree in Administration
from St. Lawrence University. Kathy was a special
education teacher at the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES,
Canton Central School District, Clifton-Fine Central
School District and most recently was CSE/CPSE
Chairperson at Greene Central School District. She
spent fifteen years teaching special education to
students with a wide variety of disabilities. Kathy
enjoys baking bread, sewing and spending time
with her husband.
High School Appointments
Michelle Cipriano
Michelle was hired as an Earth
Science teacher in the High School.
Because her parents met in the military,
Michelle spent her formative years in
Europe. Michelle’s love for rocks overpowered her
original aspiration of becoming a whale doctor, and
so she decided to major in Earth Science and ended
up earning her B.S. degree from SUNY Oneonta.
She is currently working on her Biology certification.
She did her student teaching at West Canada Valley
Central School and at Thomas R. Proctor High
School, and was a substitute teacher at Herkimer
County BOCES. She says she chose to apply for a
teaching job here because Sidney was recommended
to her as “a nice place to teach,” and she enjoys
sharing her love for science with students who are
fun and full of energy. Michelle says her favorite
8 Sidney Central School District
food is an eel cucumber sushi roll. In her spare time,
Michelle plays tennis and enjoys crafts like knitting
and crocheting.
Floyd Fisher
Floyd has been hired as a temporary
high school Mathematics teacher. As a
kid, he was interested in becoming a
professional athlete. Later in life, he earned
his A.B. degree in Mathematics/Physics from Lycoming
College, his Master’s degree in Mathematics from Central
Connecticut State University, and his Master’s degree in
Computer Science from RPI at Hartford. He then found
work as an Associate Professor of Mathematics at the
University of Hartford. Because Floyd graduated from
Sidney High in 1959, he decided to come back to his
old school hometown and apply for a teaching position
in the Mathematics Department. At Sidney High, he is
mostly looking forward to, “having everyone pass the
Integrated Algebra Regents.” Floyd reports that he was
once caught skipping school his senior year, he enjoys
running, he likes reading novels by Tom Clancy, and, if
he had a million dollars, he would retire (again).
Amy Glerum
Amy was hired as a Mathematics teacher
in the High School. As a student, she had
a math teacher who “was not real exciting
and did not make math my favorite
subject,” and this sparked her interest in becoming the
Mathematics teacher that her teacher was not. She hopes
to make math fun and exciting. She earned her B.S.
and Master’s degrees in Secondary Education at SUNY
Oswego. Previously, she taught Mathematics at Lyons
Central School District. She was also a Mathematics
Integration Specialist at DCMO BOCES and has taught
as an adult educator. Some interesting facts about Amy:
she competes in tractor pulls, was a wrestler and sings.
Asked what kind of super-hero she would like to be, she
says Rubber Man, because then she could do chores in
one room while being in another.
Scott Hornung
Scott was hired as a Social Studies
teacher in the High School. As a teen, he
was a student-athlete who competed on the
soccer and track teams. At SUNY Oswego,
he earned his B.S. degree in Adolescent Education/
Social Studies 7-12 and is currently in the process of
earning his Master’s degree at SUNY Oneonta. Scott is
interested in teaching at the high school level, because
he believes that, “high school students are mature
enough to act like adults when they need to, but at the
same time still have fun and [do] not take themselves
too seriously.” He has substitute taught here at Sidney
and in the Oneonta City School District. Previous to his
current job, he was a long-term substitute teacher at
DCMO BOCES. Scott chose to apply for a teaching job
at Sidney because he is an alumnus of the Sidney School
District. He also took up the coaching position for
the boys’ Varsity Soccer Team. He is eager to get to
know all of the students and to be the best teacher,
coach, adviser and mentor that he can be. Scott
enjoys listening to Jimi Hendrix and Smashing
Pumpkins, his favorite cartoon is South Park, he
taught himself how to play a guitar (poorly), and
he admires people who put forth all of their effort
into everything that they do.
Whitney Hubbard
Whitney has been hired as a
temporary Social Studies teacher for
the High School. As a kid, she grew
up in New York, Kansas, Missouri,
Pennsylvania and Savannah, Georgia. She wanted
to be a professional bungee jumper. But, later on,
Whitney says she decided that she wanted to teach
“the roots of all other subjects—Social Studies.”
She attended SUNY Oneonta, where she earned
her B.S. degree in Adolescent Education/Social
Studies. Previously to being hired at Sidney, she
was a student teacher at Charlotte Valley Middle
School and at Cobleskill-Richmondville High
School. Her goals at Sidney High are to educate,
inspire, and to have a great time. At the Sidney
School District, Whitney likes the students, staff,
technology, and enjoys the baked goods that
Mrs. Annette Hammond (HS Principal) makes.
She also enjoys going kayaking, traveling, thumb
wrestling and eating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
When asked what kind of super-hero she would
want to be, Whitney said that she would want to
be Captain Planet because, “he has a great theme
song to save the world to, he’s environmentally
conscious, and has a great fashion sense.” A
special talent that Whitney claims she can do is
that she “can walk on [her] hands for an extended
period of time while singing a variety of charming
melodies from the 40’s and 50’s.”
Holly Lape
Holly has been hired as a temporary
Special Education teacher in the High
School. She wanted to teach at the
high school level because she wants
to “make a difference in young people’s lives
during their final years of public school.” And
so, she earned her B.A. degree in Social Studies
Education from Daemen College and is currently
working on earning a Master ’s degree from
Binghamton University in Special Education.
Holly has been a substitute teacher at a number
of different high schools in the area. Her goal at
Sidney High is to help her students achieve their
greatest potential. Holly enjoys the outdoors, is
a Red Sox fan, admires people who stand up for
what they believe in, and has run in the Buffalo
Marathon.
Sidney Central School District
Jonathan Yurka
Jonathan Yurka was hired as a Health
teacher in the Middle and High Schools.
He received his B.S. degree in Fitness
Development/Kinesiology and his Master’s
in Teaching Health Education from SUNY Cortland. Jon
was a physical therapist aide at Lourdes Hospital and a
substitute teacher at Susquehanna Valley Central School
District. Presently, Jon is a personal trainer at Young at
Heart in Endicott. He belongs to the National Strength
and Conditioning Association. He is very interested in
exercise and fitness, health, and encouraging students to
make the right choices in life to promote longevity and
overall health. He enjoys traveling to tropical places in
the winter.
Middle School Appointments
Jamie Baumes
Jamie was hired as a science teacher in the
Middle School. She received her A.S. degree
from Broome Community College and her
B.A. degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry from
the State University College at Oneonta. Jamie was a tutor,
presenter, teaching assistant and adjunct professor at the
State University College at Oneonta and did her internship
at Sidney High School.
Andrew Hoff
Andrew was hired as a childhood education
teacher in the Middle School. He received
his A.S. degree in Liberal Arts/Business
Management from Clinton Community
College, his B.S. degree in Childhood Education from
Plattsburgh State University, and his Master’s degree in
Education-Elementary Reading and Literacy from Walden
University. Andrew was a substitute teacher at Willsboro
Central School District, a sixth grade social studies teacher
at Binghamton, a fourth grade long-term substitute
at Sidney Elementary School and most recently was a
second grade long-term substitute at Vestal Central School
District. Andrew enjoys skiing, hiking, snow shoeing, and
kayaking. He and his wife have been white-water rafting
on the Colorado River and actually saved a woman’s life
who fell out of the boat! He enjoys building with ceramic
tile. A life ambition of his is to climb all the High Peak-
Adirondacks. He and his wife have done about ten so
far, three of which he carried his son in a child-hiking
backpack.
Kate Lloyd
Kate was hired as a long term substitute
in grade 6 ELA. She received her B.S. degree
in English and Elementary Education from
SUNY Oswego and her Master’s degree in
Special Education from Syracuse University. Kate did
her student teaching at Roxboro Road Middle School and
Kernan Elementary School. Most recently she was a special
education teacher at the Altmar-Parish-Williamstown
Central School District in Parish.
9
 Meghan Slack
Meghan was hired as a technology
teacher in the Middle School. She
received her B.S. degree in Technology
Education from SUNY Oswego. She
did her student teaching at Deposit Middle School
and Sidney High School and most recently was
a technology teacher at Baltimore County Public
Schools at Catonsville High School.
Elementary School Appointments
Ruth Boyce
Ruth was hired as a school nurse in
the Elementary School. She received
her A.S. degree from Clackamas
Community College in Oregon. Ruth
has been a registered maternity nurse at A.O. Fox
Hospital, a public health nurse for Delaware County
Public Health, as well a residential RN for ARC
Otsego. Ruth has two daughters attending Sidney
school and also has a 8 ½ month old baby girl.
Loribeth Fisher
Loribeth was hired as an elementary
school counselor. She received her B.A.
degree in psychology/religious studies
from Nazareth College of Rochester
and her Master’s degree as a School Counselor from
the State University College at Oneonta. Loribeth
worked as a child protective services caseworker
for Delaware County, a long-term substitute
school counselor at Norwich City School District, a
summer camp director/classroom teacher at SUCO
Children’s Center, and a long-term substitute school
counselor at Whitney Point Intermediate School.
Loribeth loves to cook and bake by experimenting
and modifying recipes to make them her own. She
and her husband have been married for three years
and do not have any children yet. She is also active
in her local church.
Adrienne Olivet
Adrienne was hired as a special
education teacher in the Elementary
School. She received her B.S. degree
in Childhood Education from SUNY
Oswego and her Master ’s degree in Inclusive
Education from Nazareth College. Adrienne did
her student teaching at Williamstown Elementary
School and Lanigan Elementary School, and her
graduate field work at School 45 and School 29
in Rochester. She worked as a floating teacher at
the Ooey Gooey Playschool in Rochester, and was
a substitute teacher at Chenango Forks Central
School District. Adrienne loves to dance and has
been dancing for 12 years. She has taken classes
in tap, jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical. She also likes
to run and has participated in a 3k and 5k race.
She enjoys reading and writing for fun and her dream
is to write her own children’s book someday.
10
Kelly Tischmacher
Kelly was hired as a grade one teacher
in the Elementary School. She received her
B.S. degree in Childhood Education from
Elmira College and is presently working
on her Master’s degree in Middle School Mathematics
from Walden University. She did her student teaching at
Pine City Elementary School and St. Mary Our Mother
School. She was a substitute teacher at South Kortright,
Charlotte Valley, Morris, Franklin and Oneonta City
School Districts. Kelly also was a long-term substitute
at Sidney Central Schools in 3rd grade and grades 6-8
mathematics. Kelly is very active in fitness and loves
playing basketball. Her favorite author is Nicholas
Sparks.
HS Staff bios written by Kimberly Young, HS Student.
HS Academic Support
Available After School
In an effort to provide additional academic
support for our High School students to ensure
their success, we are offering an after school
program again this year. Every student is eligible to
participate in this program, regardless of academic
standing.
The high school after school program will be
offered two days a week in the High School library.
It will run from 3:10-4:10 p.m. on Tuesdays and
Thursdays with specific content areas each day.
Tuesday—English and Social Studies
Thursday—Science and Math
Each afternoon as identified above, two teachers
(one from each subject area) will be available to
assist students on new concepts with which they
may need extra help or with homework. Teachers
will be recommending and encouraging specific
students to participate. Parents may also ask that
their child participate, and students themselves
can elect to be a part of the program whenever they
wish. Students do not need to attend every session;
it is attended on an as-needed basis.
We began the program on November 6. There
will be a 4:15 p.m. bus for students participating. If
you are interested in having your child participate,
you will need to have a conversation with them and
have them sign up in the library each day of the
program. If a teacher is recommending that your
child participate, they will contact you to inform
you of their request. This program is not to serve
as a punishment for students but to give them extra
support.
Sidney Central School District
 Area All-State Music Festival
Students will attend the NYSSMA Zone 8 Area All-
State Music Festival, which will be held at Oneonta State
on November 21-22. Groups performing include Women’s
Chorus, Concert Band, Mixed Chorus and Orchestra. The
weekend will be capped off with a performance Saturday
afternoon, at the Hunt Student Union.
Sidney is one of 37 schools represented, from over a five
county area. Students are selected to perform based on their
previous spring NYSSMA solo scores. Performing in the
Concert Band will be Kevin Davie, Megan Gray, Jeff Olson,
Allie Omahen, Zach Smith and Samantha War.
Lindsay Gray will sing in the Women’s
Chorus, and Erica Howard, Bethenie
Pinney, Allyssa Poss, Ariel Scott and Nolan
VanFleet will perform in the mixed chorus.
Congratulations to all, for being selected to
participate in this prestigious event!
Concert Band: Samantha Mixed Chorus: Allyssa Poss,
War, Allie Omahen, Megan Gray, Nolan VanFleet, Bethenie
Zach Smith, Kevin Pinney, Ariel Scott.
Davie and Jeff Olson (Erica Howard, missing)
Notes from HS Guidance
In the fall, the College Board offers several tests for
juniors and seniors who may be planning to continue
their education after high school. Many colleges use the
results of these tests as part of their admissions process.
The ACT test will be given here at the High School on June
13, 2009 with a registration deadline of May 8, 2009. The
SAT test will be offered here at the High School on May
2, 2009 with a registration deadline of March 31, 2009.
For further information on these tests, please stop by the
Guidance Office.
Currently, the Guidance Counselors are conducting
senior conferences. The purpose of this meeting is to
review the senior’s four year plan, checking to make
sure all graduation requirements have been met or are
in the process of being met. Also, post graduation plans
are discussed. Any senior who has not met with his/her
guidance counselor must make an appointment. Parents
are encouraged to attend.
The end of the first marking period is November 7,
with report cards being distributed to students on
November 14. Please call the Guidance Office should you
have any questions or concerns, 563-2135, ext. 4256.
—Mrs. Egli and Mr. Johnson
Sidney Central School District
Interact Club Welcomes
Exchange Student
On September 25, the Interact Club
welcomed our new foreign exchange
student, Linda Taleb of Munich,
Germany. The welcoming reception
was held in the Community Room
during 5th and 6th period lunch. The event
was well attended by the Interact members,
administration and members of the Sidney
Rotary Club. The Rotary Club sponsors the
foreign exchange student program, as well as
the Interact Club.
The Community Room was well decorated
with an All-American red, white and blue
theme. There were streamers, flags, stars and
stripes and a welcoming banner across the wall.
Linda was presented with a classic I LOVE NY
t-shirt and a Statue of Liberty hat! Everyone
enjoyed a lunch of pizza and salad, finished off
with a beautiful cake.
Linda has been an active member of the
Interact Club, and we are excited to have her
here at Sidney Central School District.
ExxonMobil Grant
Thanks to the efforts of Janet Fusco of
ExxonMobil Express Mart in Sidney, the
High School has been awarded a $500
ExxonMobil Educational Alliance grant to
purchase materials to enhance programs
and benefit our students. Funded by the
Exxon Mobil Corporation, the ExxonMobil
Educational Alliance program is designed
to provide ExxonMobil retailers like Express
Mart with an opportunity
to invest in the future of
their community through
educational grants to the
neighborhood schools.
Pictured are Annette Hammond, HS
Principal and Janet Fusco, ExxonMobil
Express Mart Representative.
11
 Yearbook Pre-Order and Recognition Ads
Dear Community Members:
The Reflector, the Sidney High School yearbook, wants to remind you that it is the time of year to pre-order
yearbooks. When you pre-order your yearbook, the total cost to you will only be $45, opposed to $50 when the
yearbooks arrive in the spring. The first pre-order payment is only $20.
This year is special because we have set up, through Jostens, online payments. If you would rather pay from
home with a credit card, it’s just as easy as logging onto jostensyearbook.com, filling out State and Town, and
choosing the High School.
Also, The Reflector would like to offer parents and grandparents the chance to honor their graduating seniors.
We are selling Remembrance Ads, which is an advertisement in the back of the yearbook dedicated to your
student. Pictures, poems and messages can be created in various ways. If you want to create your Remembrance
Ad, all you have to do is send it to the school, and we’ll scan it for you. If you’d rather make the ad here at
the school, perhaps an artistic younger sibling wants to help out; The Reflector’s staff is more than willing to
show you how.
If you want to purchase a Remembrance Ad, it is easily done. If you design it on your own or if you want
to allow us the pleasure of designing it for you, collect the ad, pictures, and message and drop them off at the
High School or with your student.
The prices and sizes are as follows:
Eighth Page........................................................... $20 Quarter Page......................................................... $34
Half Page.............................................................. $63 Full Page.............................................................. $120

Yearbook Sale Order Form Senior Remembrance Ad Order Form

Please Print Clearly Please Print Clearly

_________________________________ _________________________________
Name of Person Receiving/picking up book Name of Senior

1st Period Teacher_________________________ Please,_ ____ design my ad _____ use attached ad

Amt. Enclosed $___________________________ Amt. Enclosed $___________________

(Please make checks payable to The Reflector. (Please make checks payable to The Reflector.
Do not send cash through the mail.) Do not send cash through the mail.)

Address for Receipt: Address for Receipt:

___________________________________ ___________________________________

___________________________________ ___________________________________

Portfolio Studies on Display

Mr. Lissandrello’s high school Portfolio students while at the same time developing their own unique
have been displaying their most recent work in the style. Observational drawings of
Community Room for all to see and enjoy. This select additional forms (3-dimensional
class includes Sam Melitti, Samantha Goulette, shapes), perspective drawings,
Megan Gray, Cassie Hoblitz, Jenny Mondonedo, Jerri self-portraits, still-life, and
Mondonedo and Jenneece Matonis. Mr. Lissandrello’s landscape will follow.
Portfolio class is specifically geared for advanced art The best works will be
students who wish to enter a college art program, a included in their individual
visual art school, or find an art related job. portfolio cases and digitally Jenneece Matonis
Their initial drawings are large charcoal studies photographed to vastly at the easel with
of spheres and organic produce. By drawing directly improve their odds at attaining her Spherical Study
from observation, students are able to keenly study acceptance to art schools or help in charcoal.
form, volume, light and shadow, and composition, them get a job.

12 Sidney Central School District

 Reading Buddies CATCH the GO Spirit
The 100 Book Challenge reading program has a
new aspect this year, eighth grade reading buddies. “CATCH . . . CATCH . . . CATCH, CATCH,
With the combined efforts of Miss Clark, 100 Book CATCH!” This is how the Elementary School
Coordinator, and Mrs. Jacobus, 8th grade ELA teacher, got their CATCH Kickoff Assembly started on
we have been able to provide reading coaches in the Friday, October 10. CATCH, also known as the
Elementary School. The eighth grade students have Coordinated Approach To Child Health, is a
volunteered their study hall time every other day to program that educates elementary kids about
be reading coaches. We are happy to have reading leading a healthy lifestyle by making good eating
buddies in early kindergarten, second grade, and choices and staying physically active.
fourth grade. In addition the Elementary School The CATCH program was funded by Cornell
students are again using our fourth grade students Cooperative Extension's Delaware-Greene Eat
as reading coaches in Kindergarten. Well Play Hard Community Project, a grant funded
through the New York State Department of Health,
which is committed to tackling the alarming
obesity epidemic in school-age children.
At the kickoff, the students became increasingly
excited about learning how to eat the proper
foods, or GO foods, not WHOA foods. They also
learned the importance of getting enough physical
activity during the day and that being active is
tons of fun! The students were up dancing with
their teachers, watching a banana eating contest,
Eighth grade student reading with
Early Kindergarten student
eating apples donated to the school by The Frog
Pond of Bainbridge, and learning that Sidney
Elementary School is making a move to a healthier
lifestyle for all students and staff by CATCHing
100 Book Challenge the Go Spirit!
The 100 Book Challenge program is off to a fast
start. We have added some new features this year.
Grades 4, 5, and 6 are able to enter a raffle if they reach
their 100 STEP goal by specific dates. There will be
5 prizes available at each STEP goal.
This year we are requiring that only students
write in their log books. This was a recommendation
made by the 100 Book Challenge representatives. The
only place that parents are to sign is in the signature
space. Grades 1-6 may log when they read, only in
Kindergarten may children log when an adult reads
to them.
Our first STEP goal is on November 17. Your child
should be at 100 STEPS on that day. Many children
have exceeded that goal and are well on their way to
200 STEPS. Keep up the good work!

Sidney Central School District 13

 Creatures of Character NYSSMA
The Elementary Band attended the New York State
Mrs. Fisher has started a new character
School Music Association Major Evaluation Festival.
education program called Creatures of Character
For their performance of level I literature, the band
during classroom guidance lessons. Students learn
received a GOLD rating. NYSSMA awards Gold ratings
how animals exhibit the following characteristics
based on the following criteria: A Gold rating will be
in nature and how they benefit the animals. The
awarded to organizations that have demonstrated
program focuses on teaching children to apply
an outstanding level of technical and artistic skill in
the same character traits to their own lives to be
each of the evaluative categories, (Tone, Intonation,
successful in school and beyond. The character
Balance, Technique, Accuracy/Execution, Rhythm,
traits reinforce the five Pillars of Character
Interpretation, Discipline/Appearance, Appropriate
Education Program at Sidney Elementary School.
Choice of Music) for all three selections. Any weakness
• Responsibility—Responsible Bertram B. Beaver
in the musical performance will have been minimal.
• Respect—Respectful Pat Bat
Recommendations will be given to further enhance
• Fairness—Justice Miriam H. Eagle
their music performance skills.
• Caring—Caring Carol Pelican
This information is published in School Music News,
• Trustworthiness—Courageous Albert B. Lion
Vol. 72, No.1, the official publication of the New York
Students are currently learning about how
State School Music Association.
beavers are extremely responsible animals by
Feel free to visit Mrs. Hoxie’s webpage for more
working diligently to build dams and lodges.
interesting band news.
Students discuss, identify, and practice ways they
can show responsibility with their words and
actions in school and at home.

Second Grade Trip

The second grade classes visited the Johnson’s
Covered Bridge Farm in Unadilla in October.
Mr. Johnson showed the children how popcorn grows
on a cob. He put the cob in a brown paper bag and
popped it in the microwave. It was a delicious treat!
The children were also able to take a hayride touring
the farm. They saw bee hives, cows, a pumpkin
patch, and cornfields while admiring the beautiful
fall foliage. After the hayride, the children were able
to enter the pumpkin garden and pick out their own
pumpkin, gourd, and finger corn. The garden was
decorated with a scarecrow, a cow, a pumpkin man,
and prize winning giant pumpkins. It was a wonderful
trip, and we thank the Johnsons for their generosity.
Map Making
Ms. Neal's third and fourth grade art students
started the year off by making maps. They began
by staining and texturing kraft paper to make it
look old or worn. Then they brainstormed ideas
for features that could be found on a map, such as
mountains, rivers, cities, landmarks, etc. Students
could choose to show a real or imagined place
and time, or they could use the map to tell a story
or find a treasure. The general areas were put in
using watercolors,
then details were
added using colored
pencils or markers.
The completed
project included a
written paragraph
about the map.

14 Sidney Central School District

 Fourth Grade News
Fourth grade has had an exciting experience
to start the year off. Mrs. Langstaff and Mrs.
Woodyshek's classes have had the pleasure of
hosting two student teachers from SUNY Oneonta.
Miss Backus and Miss Baldasare were here to start
the year and have done several engaging lessons
with the students.
Both students and student teachers were
immersed into a truly hands-on science unit. The
classes loved the crayfish unit as they learned
about humane treatment, habitats, senses of a
crayfish and animal adaptations. Each pair was
able to adopt a crayfish and study it throughout
the unit. With parent permission the students
were able to make the adoption final by bringing
home a new family member at the end of the unit.
Although there was a pet store odor in our rooms,
it was a great experience!
In ELA students created poems about different
topics that they were studying. The students
learned and wrote poems in the forms of Diamante,
Haiku, Acrostic and Couplets. There were poems
related to their crayfish and Native Americans.
Miss Backus created a Kindness Tree for the
entire grade level to enjoy. Students received a
heart to hang on the tree for demonstrating an
act of kindness.
Both Miss Baldasare and Miss Backus moved on
to their next placement after October 24. We will
truly miss them and wish them the best of luck.
Sidney Central School District
PeaceMakers in 6th Grade
Middle School 6th graders started their year off with
a citizenship unit in Ms. Jenkins’ Social Sciences class.
Our first discussion centered around characteristics that
exemplify the formula: Respect + Responsibility = Success.
We examined the rules, guidelines, and suggestions in the
Student Handbook. Students determined that success
looked like; feeling happy and good about yourself,
getting good grades, learning, enjoying privileges, earning
rewards and awards, staying out of trouble, and making
your family proud of you. To help us reach our goals of
success we spent ten days with Karen Goff of the Dispute
Resolution Center of Chenango, Delaware and Otsego
Counties, learning different ways to manage conflict.
The program Mrs. Goff taught is called PeaceMakers and
was made available through a grant. We practiced some
skills to help us resolve conflicts without being hurtful.
We worked on conflict management, anger management,
team work, decision making, tolerance and dealing with
“bullies.” Students were given several newsletters to share
with their parents. At the end of the program each student
received a dove pin and a certificate for completing the
PeaceMaker Program and for promoting peace at school,
at home, and in the global community.
Achievement Award All-Stars
Miss O'Sullivan and Mr. Beckwith recognize Elementary
students who exemplify good character and fair play during
Physical Education class. The most recent Achievement
Award All-Stars are . . .
Kindergarten—Olivia DeMott, Jonathan McNamara,
Hannah Funaro, Savannah Baldwin, Devon Johnson,
Anthony Morris, Kristen Spinella, Garrett Starr
1st Grade—Khadija Butt, Lily Evans, Conner King, Victor
Lockhart, Sydne Clupper, Corbin Constable, Hannah
Gregory, Hailey Hoag
2nd Grade—Crystal Bivar, Amber Britton, Mason Brown,
Paul Amara, Simon Dear, Alexandra Johnson, Chayse
Johnson, Cora Van Kingsley
3rd Grade—Benjamin Bivar, Remington Crandall, Carter
Fralicker, Destiny Jones, Heather Lisenby, Justin
McMillan, Zachary Pope, Miranda Anderson
4th Grade—Micah Bowie, Mackensie Gravelin, Collin Karl,
Jennifer Melvin, Jacob Plummer, Haley Shoemaker,
Trenton Stillman, Meggan Tweedie
5th Grade—Gunner Babcock, William Crandall, Marina
Mazzarella, Tyson McCarroll, Hailey Newell, Courtney
Smith, Dean Howard, Dyani Sands
15
 Sidney Central School District

DCMO BOCES Printing Service

95 West Main Street Non-Profit
Sidney, New York 13838 Organization
U.S. POSTAGE
Board of Education PAI D
Nancy Parsons, President Sidney, New York
13838
Catherine Treffeisen, Vice-President Permit No. 16
Steven Anderson
Kimberly Ayres
Eric Brandl
Gary Schoonover
Terri Theobald
Superintendent of Schools
Sandra M. Cooper
School Business Manager
Dorothy Iannello
Newsletter Editor
Sheri Kinsella
ECRWSS
Postal Customer

or Current Resident

Accident Insurance
The District provides student accident insurance through a group plan administered by the Allen J. Flood
Company. Please note that this insurance is a secondary plan with a $100 deductible that is designated to
supplement the family’s primary policy. If your child is injured in a school sponsored activity, you will need
to file your claim within 30 days at the District Office or call 563-2135, ext. 4273, for more information.

Parental Notification
Right to Withhold Certain Information from Military Recruiters
and Institutions of Higher Learning
Release of Certain Student Information Under the No Child Left Behind Act
Pursuant to the No Child Left Behind Act, the school district must disclose to military recruiters and institutions
of higher learning, upon request, the names, addresses and telephone numbers of high school students.
The district must also notify parents of their rights and the right of their child to request that the district not
release such information without prior written parental consent.
Parents wishing to exercise their option to withhold their consent to the release of the above information to
military recruiters and/or institutions of higher learning must sign and return the attached form to the Building
Principal by December 1.

Withholding Consent for the Release of Certain Student Information Under the No Child Left Behind Act

Please do not release the name, address and telephone number of_ _________________________________ to
name of student

______military recruiters and/or______institutions of higher learning (check all that apply).

Parent Signature_ _________________________________________________________ Date_______________