1
    Honor
    Wisdom
    Leadership
    Truth
    Volume 1, Issue 5
    Keshequa
    The mission of the
    Keshequa Central
    School District is to
    provide
    opportunities to
    empower all
    students to be
    cooperative, self-
    directed lifelong
    learners, prepared
    to responsibly meet
    the challenges of
    the twenty-first
    century.
    April 2004
    www.keshequa.org
    Chronicle
    To reach school district
    personnel by email you
    need to type their first initial
    then their last name
    @keshequa.org
    for example:
    pshaver@keshequa.org
    No. 1 Academic Achievement
    No. 2 School Climate
    No. 3 Professional Development
    No. 4 District Communications
    No. 5 Facilities
    No. 6 Technology
    No. 7 Fiscal Responsibility
    Keshequa
    Central School
    District Goals,
    2003-04
    District
    Goals
    A Message From The
    Superintendent
    Several drafts of the proposed spending plan for 2004­2005 have been developed over the past three
    months. Based on the governor’s proposed budget and district projections we’re expecting a decrease in
    state aid. At the same time we have large increases in teacher’s retirement costs, non­teacher retirement
    costs, and health insurance premium costs. These things coupled with
    contractual obligations and fuel and energy costs, make the budget process a
    real challenge. We are examining all programs and staffing needs, plus
    gathering input from staff and community to minimize the impact of this
    decrease in aid on our taxpayers.
    The Board of Education will adopt a budget
    on April 22
    nd
    that will then be presented to the
    public on May 18
    th
    .You may attend presentations
    on this budget at the regular Board meeting on
    April 22
    nd
    at 7:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the
    Middle/High School, Nunda or at the Public
    Hearing on May 11
    th
    at 7:00 p.m. in the Middle/
    High School Auditorium, Nunda.
    Public Hearing
    Tuesday, May 11, 2004
    7:00 p.m.
    Middle/High School Auditorium, Nunda
    Budget Vote
    May 18, 2004
    7:00 a.m. ­ 8:00 p.m.
    Middle/High School Lobby
    2
    Eighth Grader Earns 100%
    on Math A Exam
    Angelica Schmitter, an 8
    th
    grade student at Keshequa Central School, received a
    100% on the Math A Exam that was given in January. The Math A Exam tests a full
    year of algebra material as well as a half­year of geometry material. The exam,
    which is usually taken by tenth and eleventh grade students, is known for its
    difficulty throughout the state. With the mathematics state standards becoming
    increasingly difficult, for any student to receive a perfect score on this exam is truly
    a great accomplishment. Mr. Macomber, Angelica’s mathematics teacher, com­
    mented by saying, “For an eighth grade student to receive a perfect score really
    shows Angelica’s mathematical ability and her strong work ethic.” This was an
    exceptional feat. Congratulations Angelica!
    Cassie Starr of Wyoming County Bank works
    with KCS students on Junior Achievement
    Goal
    #3
    Professional Development
    •
    Results have been submitted by personnel from Buffalo State University concerning our Mathematics Audit (2/25/04)
    evaluation of our 6­12 mathematics program. The study examined our instructional presentation through teacher interview,
    textbook inspection, curriculum review, assessment achievement, professional development and master scheduling of math
    offerings. This summary designates our math department’s strengths and deficiencies and offers recommendations for
    improvements. Administration from our three schools are scheduled to meet with BOCES representatives to further review
    this process and discuss ways to maximize our improvement effort.
    •A team of four people (Superintendent, Director of Special Education, Social Worker, School Resource Officer) attended a
    “Threat Assessment” workshop in
    Buffalo put on by the U.S. Secret
    Service to learn how to recognize,
    prevent and deal with potential
    dangerous situations to our schools.
    •A
    Mentoring Plan for 2004­2005 is
    being developed by administration and
    teachers.
    •
    March 12 was a full day of Staff
    Development for faculty and teacher
    aides with a variety of activities to
    promote excellent teaching strategies.
    Keshequa Launches Junior
    Achievement
    Mrs. Proctor’s and Mrs. Sawyer’s Life Skills students have received specialized
    instruction from Junior Achievement, a program that places businesspeople in the
    classroom to conduct hands­on lessons in practical business applications. The program
    enhances listening skills and helps students understand directions through role­playing
    and developing ideas. Students formulate questions and search for answers themselves.
    The businesspeople act as a guide through the inquiry­based learning activity. Cassie
    Starr of Wyoming County Bank conducted the “Money Moves” lesson. Her objectives
    were to have students identify circumstances of money being exchanged for goods and
    services and to recognize how money flows through the community’s economy. Cassie
    stated, “It’s a very good program. I really enjoy doing it. It’s fun to give something back
    to your community and school.” Cassie’s supervisor at Wyoming County Bank’s
    Geneseo branch, Bill Bacon, gives her release time to work with the program. Mrs.
    Proctor and Mrs. Sawyer have participated in JA for a few years now. JA is one of many
    hands­on applications that they use to engage their students. Mrs. Sawyer stated that the
    class learned about appropriate dress for working at a bank, checks and deposits,
    differences in bank accounts, and the security procedures of the bank. Keshequa school­to­work coordinator Shawn Bielicki com­
    mented, “Wyoming County Bank is one of those businesses that remain active in school. This is one of many programs that they
    participate in and we are thankful to have them here at KCS.” Mr. Bielicki serves as a liaison between the district and the Livingston
    County Junior Achievement coordinator Deb Gage. Cassie is a former graduate of Keshequa and has worked for Wyoming County
    Bank for four years as a customer service representative and as a teller. Mrs. Proctor and Mrs. Sawyer are tenured special education
    teachers. Mr. Bielicki is a tenured business teacher and serves as a school­to­work program coordinator.
    3
    Middle School Students Complete
    Career Plans Online
    Mock Trial Team Argues for
    Livingston County Championship
    On Saturday March 13 our KCS Mock trial team fought its way into the Championship round of the Livingston County Mock
    Trial Tournament held in the County Court House in Geneseo.
    KCS defeated a tough Cal­Mum team in the semi­round with the honorable Judge Alonzo presiding.
    The KCS team presented an excellent case in the final round with New York State Supreme Court Judge Wesley awarding the
    decision to a tough Avon team by seven tenths of a point. Judge Wesley remarked after the decision that both teams are to be com­
    mended for a fine legal battle.
    The attorney team of Duby, Kronert and Whiteman are to be commended for their exceptional leadership role on the defense
    team, which consisted of Tony Petro, Carrie Cobin and Travis Hatfield.
    Congratulations also to the prosecution team consisting of, Amber Funk, Danielle Gilbert, Mike Clark, Jenny Holley, Richelle
    Losey, Dave Buchinger and Janae Holley.
    Special thanks to Mr. Riggi, the team’s Faculty Coach and to Mrs. Sisson the team’s Legal Council and Coach. (Yes, that is Mrs.
    Sisson the wife of our beloved Mr. Sisson who has been a great fan and supporter of our Mock Trial team through out the year!)
    I look forward to exciting competition in the future. I hear that quite a few members of the team may be returning next year!
    Ryan Nugent works on his career plan online
    Perhaps some KCS middle school
    students will eventually land a career
    on the internet, but for now, all of them
    are planning their careers using the net.
    Career plans help students stay focused
    on their schoolwork and make connec­
    tions between what is taught and where
    it can be applied. All middle school
    computer students completed their own
    career plans and a number of career
    related activities electronically using
    NYCareerZone.org. The state­funded
    site allows each student to create his or
    her own room where they can keep this
    folder forever, updating it as needed.
    For example, when they move or when
    they graduate, they can update their
    personal information. They have their
    own username and can log on anywhere, anytime. Eighth grade
    student Ryan Nugent stated, “When I get older, I want to play
    professional baseball. The career plan taught me that it’s not
    going to be as easy I thought to reach this goal, but it is possible.”
    When asked what he liked the best Ryan answered, “It better
    aligns your talents and abilities with some careers.” The site has
    students first conduct an interest survey of more than 100
    questions. They then receive a list of core areas that they may be
    successful at. The student can track his
    or her talents and abilities and link
    them to the fields. Next they integrate
    their job readiness skills and link their
    education. This helps them identify
    what areas they need to grow in and
    what classes they should take. Students
    can enter certain life skills and begin
    exploring careers. The site also allows
    students to enter after­school activities
    and hobbies, community service, and
    work experience. Finally, each student
    completes a final project. Mr. Bielicki’s
    middle school computer classes
    completed the experience as part of a
    school to work activity. The activity
    served as a capstone project in a career
    exploratory module. “I couldn’t believe
    the variety of careers the students selected. We have quite an
    eclectic middle school. It’s also fun to see a student initially state
    they want to be a doctor and then realize they can’t stomach
    blood. The site itself is wonderful and takes into account a
    myriad of input data. It really does benefit students, even at this
    age. It helps them make their education count. These kids need to
    tie relevance to education, or they run the risk of not being
    motivated to do their best. I think we accomplished that here.”
    4
    Kevin Raymond, MS/HS Art Teacher
    Kevin’s Bachelor of Fine Arts degree
    in Ceramics is from SUNY Fredonia
    and his Master’s Degree is from
    Rochester Institute of Technology.
    Kevin has worked as a sculptor for
    Paul Anthony Design in Buffalo and
    as a Ceramics Specialist at JCC
    Summer Camp, also in Buffalo. His
    teaching experience includes teaching
    Art during summer school at the
    Akron Central School District. Hobbies Kevin enjoys are
    going to the art gallery, exhibitions, creating artwork and
    planning for his wedding that will be in April of 2004.
    New Faces at Keshequa
    Joy Phillips, Math Lab Instructor
    Enjoying hiking, water sports, and the
    out­of­doors keeps Joy and her
    husband busy, along with crafts,
    reading and leading their church youth
    group. Having completed her education
    from SUNY Geneseo, Joy has worked
    in education in Bronx, N.Y. and
    Fairport. Joy completed her student
    teaching at nearby Letchworth Central.
    Lydia Keough, Library Media Specialist
    Mrs. Keough worked as a project
    accountant for thirteen years at
    Wilmorite in Rochester. During this
    work experience she pursued her
    Master’s of Library Science from the
    University of Buffalo. Not surpris­
    ingly, Lydia loves to read however,
    being a mother to three children
    comes first, so “I don’t get to read as
    much as I would like”. Lydia also enjoys vacationing in the
    Adirondacks with family.
    Diane Jackson, Teacher Aide
    Mrs. Jackson works in the Elementary Building in
    Dalton. She holds an Associates of Applied
    Science degree from Alfred State and has worked
    as a secretary at both Syracuse University and
    Houghton College. With her family, Diane enjoys
    church, 4 – H, cooking and being the taxi driver
    for her children’s fun activities.
    Mike Dodge, Kindergarten Teacher
    A graduate of Buffalo State University
    with his Masters in Elementary
    Education, Mike has taught a variety of
    elementary grades in different districts.
    His hobbies include golfing, jogging,
    snowboarding, hunting and watching
    football. A note of interest is that Mike
    will be running in the Buffalo Mara­
    thon in May 2004. Good Luck Mr.
    Dodge.
    Treva Walker, School Psychologist
    Ms. Walker joins Keshequa staff after
    completing her Masters of Arts and
    Certificate of Advanced Study in
    School Psychology at Alfred Univer­
    sity. Treva enjoys music, art, photogra­
    phy and hiking. She is currently
    located in the Dalton Elementary
    Building and resides in Wayland with
    her husband.
    Susan Goodhue, Middle School Mathematics
    Teacher
    Susan comes to Keshequa after
    working a number of years in the
    business industry. Formerly from
    Massachuetts, Susan now makes her
    home in Caledonia with her three sons
    and husband. Her degrees are a
    Bachelor in Math and Computer
    Science from SUNY Geneseo and her
    Master’s Degree in Education from
    the University of Lowell, Lowell Ma.
    Debra Tallman, Teacher Aide/Xerox Operator
    Debra is located in the Dalton Elemen­
    tary Building and works as a teacher
    aide and Xerox operator. She assists
    the Dalton staff with lots of projects.
    Debra enjoys crafts, camping, hiking,
    gardening and family time. Her
    previous experiences include office
    work and residential cleaning.
    5
    Tara Snavlin, Speech Therapist
    Ms. Snavlin completed her Bachelor’s Degree in
    Communicative Disorders and Sciences from SUNY
    Geneseo and is currently attending graduate school at
    Nazareth College. She has gained experience as a
    Speech Therapist by working at Monroe BOCES II in
    the summer and working at Crestwood Children’s
    Center as a Sociotherapist for the past two years. Tara
    enjoys playing and coaching basketball and relaxes
    during vacation to various tropical places.
    Brenda Cassidy, Teacher Aide (5
    th
    Grade)
    Mrs. Cassidy has been a great asset to
    the 5
    th
    Grade teachers at Dalton. She
    assist teachers and students in a variety
    of ways helping teachers meet the
    needs of all students. Brenda enjoys
    camping, gardening, reading, sports,
    but especially her children. Her past
    work experiences include 1:1 work
    with small and large groups of students
    and a variety of computer skills.
    Valerie Bugman, 1:1 Special Education
    Teacher Aide
    Having previously worked in Crisis
    Intervention/Prevention with Steuben
    ARC, Valerie is well suited to be a
    Special Education Teacher Aide in
    the Dalton Elementary Building.
    When not at work Valerie enjoys
    reading, walking and swimming.
    Va
    lerie has a family and lives in
    Nunda.
    Tonya Jetty, 1:1 Special Education Aide
    Tonya works with teachers and students
    in the Elementary Building in Dalton.
    Her past experiences involve a number
    of internships through the Genesee
    Va
    lley BOCES where she attended as
    an adult student. In her spare time
    Tonya enjoys being a big Yankees fan
    and relaxing.
    Connie Farrell, Payroll Clerk
    After several years as a stay­at­home
    Mom, Connie joined the Business
    Office staff almost one year ago. She
    holds an Associate’s Degree in
    Computer Technology from Kent State
    University and has prior work experi­
    ence in Computer Operations/Manage­
    ment and Accounting. Connie has two
    children with her husband John and
    enjoys playing Volleyball in her spare
    time.
    Tracy Woodarek, Account Clerk
    Tracy joins the Central Office staff as
    an Account Clerk. She also greets all
    visitors to the Nunda building and
    answers the main telephone line into
    the school. Tracy comes to Keshequa
    from the Livingston County Health
    Department. Some of Tracy’s interests
    include caring for house plants and a
    vegetable garden along with spending
    lots of time with her family. In
    addition, Tracy and the family are, “Waiting for our families
    kickball season to start!
    Neelam Blum, High School Mathematics
    Teacher
    Mrs. Blum keeps active out of school as
    a board member of the United Way,
    American Red Cross, Parent­Teachers
    Organization and the Genesee Valley
    Council on the Arts. She also enjoys
    volunteer work at Noyes Memorial
    Hospital. Mrs. Blum obtained her
    Bachelor’s Degree from Case Western
    Reserve University and her Master’s
    Degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Prior to
    coming to Keshequa, Neelam’s past teaching experience was at
    Perry Central.
    Dominic Aloisio, Business Administrator
    Mr. Aloisio resides in Penfield and
    comes from the Watkins Glen School
    District where he was the Business
    Administrator. In addition, his work
    experience includes several years at the
    Office of the State Comptroller.
    Dominic completed his Certificate of
    Advanced Study in School Business
    Administration at SUNY Brockport
    along with his Master’s Degree in Education and his
    Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from St. John Fisher College.
    He also holds a Certified Public Accountant license. Dominic
    is married and enjoys gardening, boating and traveling with his
    wife, while their two children are both in college.
    6
    French Department News
    by Jacqueline Noble
    GLOW Announces
    Household
    Hazardous Waste
    Collection
    The GLOW Region Solid Waste
    Management Committee will begin
    taking appointments for the 2004
    Household Hazardous Waste Collec-
    tion Program on May 15. A single
    collection will be held Saturday, May
    15 in Pavilion. The collections are open
    to residents in Genesee, Livingston
    and Wyoming counties and are free of
    charge (except for tires). In order to
    participate, residents must make an
    appointment. A total of 300 spots are
    available. The appointment process
    has worked extremely well at past
    collections. It gives GLOW and its
    vendors an idea of what materials will
    be coming, helps eliminate materials
    that can’t be accepted and in most
    cases, has resulted in very little time
    spent in unloading lines. To make an
    appointment or for more information
    please call Jacqueline Lowe at 585-
    344-2580 ext. 5463 or email at
    jlowe@co.genesee.ny.us.
    Hope Borden and Charles Provorse preparing their
    Salade Nicoise.
    The year has passed very quickly
    for us in the French classroom. The
    seventh grade will soon be starting a
    unit on Paris and I am planning some
    virtual tours of Paris using our Middle
    School Computer Lab to research
    various historic sites and monuments in
    and around Paris.
    The French I (eighth grade)
    students are preparing for the New
    Yo
    rk State Proficiency which will be
    given on Monday, June 21, 2004. Your
    eighth grade student must be present
    for this test on this date. In addition to
    our regular studies, we are working on
    previous proficiency exams every
    Friday. We will soon start the speaking
    portion of the Proficiency, which is worth
    a total of 30 points.
    The French II students have just
    completed a unit on food and they have
    translated recipes from French into
    English. The students were very successful
    in their translations and our food was
    delicious! Some of the dishes the students
    made were Salade Nicoise, French Flan,
    Cream Puffs, Cheese Soufflé and Potatoes
    with a Gruyére Cheese sauce.
    The French III students are preparing
    for the New York State Regents which will
    student has been enrolled in the online
    textbook and has been given his/her
    sign in and password. This online
    textbook can be accessed by going to
    the website
    http://my.hrw.com. The
    French II students also have access to
    these online textbooks.
    An additional website that is very
    useful for your student is
    http://
    conjuguemos.com. Again, all students
    have been registered at this site and
    access is available from any computer.
    Students who have access to the online
    textbook will use the same sign in and
    password to access the Conjuguemos
    website. French III students have been
    given a unique sign in and password.
    Please come visit us and join us for
    some French fun!
    Goal
    #6
    take place on June 22. As with the French
    I students, we have started to review
    previous Regents on Fridays in order to
    hone the students’ test taking skills and to
    provide them strategies for success.
    One of our most exciting additions
    this year has been the online textbook. The
    entire 7
    th
    and 8
    th
    grade textbooks are
    available online, including sound files,
    videos and review and assessment tools.
    This online textbook makes it possible for
    your student to access his textbook from
    any computer with internet access. Each
    Technology
    •
    Accelerated Reader is a computer program that quizzes students about books
    they’ve read. At the Dalton team meeting on March 12
    th
    , it was decided to try to
    expand the availability of the program to use as an enrichment tool, but also to
    help students meet the New York State Standards in ELA by reading 25 books
    outside of schools.
    •
    Karen Bugman took her 11
    th
    grade students on a Distance Learning Virtual Trip
    to the Cleveland Institute of Music.
    •
    Building Levels and a District Team have been formed to update our Technol­
    ogy Plan and make recommendations for hardware and software purchases. We
    will be spending $100,000 from our Capital Project fund to put technology back
    on track in our district. Watch for community opportunities for classes and open
    labs this fall.
    7
    Echoes Creating Writing
    Project Performance
    Showcase
    Recently the Merry­Go­Round Youth Theatre Group visited our middle school.
    This talented cast captures the spirit of what is on the minds and in the hearts of
    middle school students by role­playing some of our students’ previously submitted
    essays.
    After the performance these students were awarded Outstanding Achievement
    Plaques:
    8
    th
    grade student selections:
    Ashley Cassidy Cheyenne DeMarco Leanna Derrenbacker
    Josh Goodrich Casey Jeffords Meghan Lowell
    Ryan McClements Laurie Rich Dustin Rook
    Jason Small Sonya Syrell Nick Willey
    7
    th
    grade student selections:
    Amber Harrington Jesse Orellana John Peritore
    Bonita Osmun
    6
    th
    grade student selection:
    Paige Essler
    All participating students received certificates of participation.
    What’s New in The
    Middle School
    by Jessica Bedell
    On March 12, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students attended a
    Health Careers Fair at York Central School. The students
    were exposed to a variety of careers in Health and Wellness.
    Our school left the conference winning “The School Spirit
    Award.” Come see our trophy near the middle school office!
    Thank you to all of the students who attended the fair on a
    Superintendent’s Conference Day.
    Greetings from
    the High School
    Well, it’s that
    time of the year
    when the excite­
    ment of winter
    sports is over. The
    Boys’ Basketball
    Team played an
    exciting sectional
    game, nearly
    defeating
    Wheatland­Chili. One of our senior
    cheerleaders, Sarah Sullivan, was chosen
    to cheer at the Ronald McDonald House
    Greater Rochester High School All­Star
    Game. Our Girls’ Basketball Team won
    the first round of sectional play to give
    Coach Piraino his 300
    th
    win. The Wres­
    tling Team sent five of its top wrestlers to
    Super Sectionals, with Jake Baxter making
    it to the final round. This excitement gives
    way to our anticipation of spring and the
    outdoor pleasures it brings. My yearning
    for competition was satisfied on a chilly
    Saturday afternoon in March, not by the
    crack of a bat on a baseball field, but by
    the crack of a hammer against a Judges’
    desk in a crowded courtroom in Geneseo.
    (See related article on page 3.)
    by Gary Collichio, Middle School Principal
    Academic achievement in Middle
    School is dependent upon so many things.
    Each year students come to us in all
    shapes, sizes, from varied backgrounds
    and at different levels. Middle school
    students are people with unique abilities,
    and no two students learn at exactly the
    same pace or exactly alike. One of the things that make teaching so difficult is that we
    must find the most effective way to address these individual differences in the confines
    of the classroom.
    An educational buzzword for this practice is differentiated instruction. What Is Differentiated Instruction?
    Ask young children in their first year of school, and most of them can look around their classroom and
    easily point out who can already read well, who can draw neatly “inside the lines,” who struggles with count­
    ing, who can run fast, who can’t tell time yet, who prefers to work quietly by themselves, and who likes to find
    the most yucky but fascinating bugs. Throughout their time in school, students are readily aware of their own
    diversity – their differences related to learning readiness, cultural background, interests
    Middle School
    8
    Hello, everyone!
    As you know, we’ve been focusing on bullying and how to prevent it in our schools. One
    of the behaviors that can become bullying if not kept in check is teasing. PeaceBuilders
    “give up put­downs” and we want all of our students to do this. Below is an article from the
    National Association of Elementary School Principals on how we can effectively address the
    issue of teasing. I hope you find it useful.
    Observe
    Does your child tease a lot? Parents often overlook seriously aggressive behavior.
    Listening to the comments your child makes and watching your child’s interactions with peers can help
    determine whether you have a teaser in the making. If so, take action. Talking to a school counselor about
    how to minimize this behavior is an excellent first step.
    Monitor your child’s Internet activity. With e­mail, instant messaging, and chat rooms, the Internet
    has become the newest teasing forum. Talk with your child about appropriate use of these communication
    methods. Make sure your child avoids using the Internet to spread rumors, damage reputations, or
    humiliate others.
    Is your child a silent victim? Many victims are too ashamed to tell their parents. Pay attention to
    changes in your child’s behavior and social activities (e.g., loss of appetite, sleeplessness, headaches,
    nervousness, school avoidance) and let your child know that he or she can talk to you if someone is being
    cruel to them.
    Prevent
    Be Prepared.
    Children are most likely to pick on others who are, or who come across as, weaker or
    different. If your child is markedly different from his or her peers, prevent any possible teasing by
    helping your child develop strong self­confidence and self­esteem.
    Work with the school.
    Does your child’s school have a policy that addresses teasing? If not, bring it
    up for discussion. Many schools have character education programs that may also help prevent aggres­
    sive behavior.
    Strength in numbers.
    Boys and girls with a good group of friends are less likely to be the victim of
    teasing. Help your child cultivate a group of buddies. Encourage social and group activities—from Scouts
    to sports teams—to give your child peer support.
    Take Action
    If your child is the victim of teasing:
    Report it to the school. Elementary and middle school children can be very sly in their abuse of
    others, much of which escapes detection by adults. Report any harassment to the teacher as soon as you
    become aware of it. Involve the school counselor and, if necessary, the principal. Schools are more aware
    than ever of the negative implications of teasing, and are implementing programs to address the problem.
    Teach coping skills. There are excellent materials written for children who are victims of teasing.
    Ask if your school counselor has a program to help children cope. Check out online resources (e.g.
    www.no­bully.org, www.antibullying.net, www.bullying.org, www.ncpc.org) and books for children and
    adults. Role­play with your children about how to respond when they are being harassed, showing them
    how to come across as strong and self­confident. Above all, take action to help them realize that it is the
    teasers, not themselves, who are troubled.
    Wo rk together until the problem is fixed. You, your child, your family members, teachers, counse­
    lors, and the school will all need to work together until the issues are resolved.
    Most importantly, children need to know that their home is a safe haven, a place where they will not
    be teased by siblings or parents, a place where they can relax and be themselves.
    Teasing is not only unkind, but can lead to future personality or
    self-esteem problems for both the victim and the teaser. Here are
    a few things parents need to know about teasing.
    9
    Business Class Markets
    ‘Strictly Nunda Gift Baskets’
    Jessica Clovis, small business treasurer, proudly displays “Strictly Nunda Gift Basket”
    Moran. Baskets
    will be delivered in
    time for Easter. An
    additional sale
    period will be
    conducted later this
    school year.All
    facets of business
    seem to be included
    in this project.
    Planning, produc­
    tion, packaging,
    selling, advertising,
    office procedures,
    niche marketing,
    and financing. Mr.
    Riggi commented,
    “This project is
    great because it is
    real. There is no
    better way to learn
    how to run a small
    business than by
    actually doing it. The students really took ownership and got into
    this project. I’m interested in seeing what they will do when they
    leave KCS. I bet we’ll have some pretty big successes. Some of
    these kids are naturals.” New York State Institute for Entrepre­
    neurship recently stated that nearly all new jobs will be created
    by small business, a plus for programs like this.The project
    originated from a grant received last year from Genesee Tech
    Prep. KCS school­to­work coordinator Shawn Bielicki wrote and
    was awarded the grant. He stated, “We looked into a project that
    we could use seed money for that would be able to continue year
    after year. The businesses that participate are just wonderful. We
    arranged a field trip to the Maple Tree Inn and Mr. Ochs from
    Nunda Mustard came in as a guest speaker. They helped bring the
    project to fruition.”A computer generated sales order form was
    created by business students Morgan Sanford and Jared Pfaff.
    Morgan stated, “We wanted to make a better form than we
    previously had.” They used Microsoft Publisher to add some
    interesting features. Both students have completed computer
    classes at KCS that helped with this task. The class is also
    currently taking orders. If interested in supporting the class,
    please contact Mr. Riggi at 468­2541 x3005.
    See order form on other side.
    Goal
    #7
    Fiscal Responsibility
    •We have researched flood insurance for our Nunda
    properties and have found it very reasonable. A premium
    of $3,527.00 will give us the needed protections and
    allow us to receive FEMA aid on last year’s flood. This
    will be purchased this month.
    The KCS
    Business depart­
    ment seems to find
    learning extensions
    and real life
    applications just
    about anywhere,
    even the grocery
    store. The small
    business club is
    marketing their
    “Strictly Nunda
    Gift Baskets” as a
    fund­raiser and as a
    class lesson. The
    gift baskets include
    a couple of jars of
    mustard from
    Nunda Mustard, a
    couple of jars of
    peanut butter and a
    couple of bags of
    specialty nuts from
    Once Again Nut Butter, and some syrup from the Maple Tree Inn,
    all wrapped and sealed in a nice wicker basket. The gift baskets
    retail for $25, a small price compared to their estimated retail
    value of $33. Class member Dillon Kronert stated, “Customers
    can fill it their own way, choosing whatever flavors of mustard
    and peanut butter they want.” An initial order brought more than
    100 customers gift baskets in for the class. Top sellers include
    Chris Whiteman, David Buchinger, Steven Duby, and Phil
    10
    Strictly Nunda Gift Baskets
    Name______________________________________________________________________________
    Address ____________________________________________________________________________
    _______________________________________________________________________________
    Phone _____________________________________
    Fill it Your Way!
    All proceeds go to the Keshequa Small Business Class
    Baskets Contain:
    •Your choice of two jars of Nunda Mustard • Your choice of two bags of Once Again Nuts
    •Your choice of two jars of Once Again Peanut Butter • A 1/2 pint of maple tree syrup
    Please send order form below to:
    Mr. Riggi at Keshequa Central School, PO Box 517, Nunda NY 14517
    Order Form
    You may choose any combination of these choices (including doubles)
    but may order no more than two of each mustard, butter & nuts.
    Mustard
    (please choose any two)
    Tangy Mustard qty ____
    Garlic Mustard qty ____
    Jalapeño Mustard qty ____
    Horse Radish­Caraway qty ____
    Cracked Peppercorn qty ____
    Honey Brewed Mustard qty ____
    Peanut Butter
    (please choose any two)
    Almond Butter qty ____
    Cashew Butter qty ____
    Peanut Butter qty ____
    Nuts
    (please choose any two)
    Cashew qty ____
    oil roasted & salted
    Tamari Almond qty ____
    oil roasted & salted
    Please fill out the following information
    ❏
    Pre­Paid
    ❏
    Pay on Delivery
    Cost per Basket: $25
    (Average Retail Value
    Approximately $33)
    District Communications
    • Held a Town Meeting on March 23 to receive input from the community on our draft budget proposal.
    • District personnel meet frequently with various county service providers to share knowledge of
    services available to our at­risk students and families.
    • “Open Forum” meetings are held monthly at Dalton Elementary with staff to ask questions, share ideas
    and get feedback.
    • Developed guideline procedures for prospective college bound athletes. This procedure is to be instituted to assist our interscho­
    lastic athletes with NCAA Clearinghouse requirements, if they are identified as possible candidates for Division I or II athletic
    scholarships.
    Goal
    #4
    11
    Congratulations to the following Winter
    Sports Athletes!
    Boys Basketball:
    Jim Dale
    – All­Star, Exceptional Senior
    Adam Ellis
    – Honorable Mention, Exceptional Senior
    Scott Rigney
    – All­Star, Exceptional Senior
    Cheerleading:
    Rachel King
    – All­Star
    Sarah Sullivan
    – All­Star, Ronald McDonald Selection
    Girls Basketball:
    Shelly Cartwright
    – All­Star, Exceptional Senior
    Kelly Sanford
    – Honorable Mention, Exceptional Senior
    Janae Holley
    – Honorable Mention, Selected Section V
    Class “C” All­Tournament Team
    Wrestling:
    Jake Baxter
    – All­Star
    School Climate
    • Echoes Performance Group visits. This
    theatre group accepted written articles, from our
    students earlier in the year, and transformed their mes­
    sages into role­playing performances with a message. The
    skits the actors chose touched on many aspects of character
    development and the unique perspectives of the world by
    middle school students (see Chronicle Article).
    •
    Continued to research bullying and best practices used by
    other schools.
    •Planned for visit by Gary McEnery on March 25 and 26.
    He is a well­known speaker who helps groups of students
    learn leadership, communication and working as a team
    skills. Watch for news next month about his special day
    with Grade 7.
    •
    Numerous “I Notice You Awards” in Grades K­5 have been
    earned. Good job!
    •
    Musician/Performer Glenn Colton will appear at Dalton
    Elementary on April 29
    th
    to do a show around bullying, and
    what kids can do about it.
    •
    Exceptional Performances of Man of La Mancha, February
    21, 22, 27 and 28! Kudos to all involved!
    •Middle School held a Spirit Week March 30 – April 2.
    •
    Sustained Silent Reading books have been placed on our
    buses. Thank you PTSA!
    Elementary Students “Dive Into
    Reading” with PARP 2004
    It’s that time of year again...the time of year when you can find Keshequa Elementary students
    reading like crazy! It’s time for PARP!
    Goal
    #2
    PARP, Parents As Reading Partners, is
    sponsored by the Keshequa Parent Teacher
    Student Association. It is an annual
    program that promotes reading at home.
    Our theme this year is “Dive Into
    Reading”. During the month of March
    families were asked to read at least five
    times a week for at least 15 minutes each
    time. Short, regular reading sessions help
    children become successful readers. Our
    goal this year is to read 7,500 books or
    chapters by March 31 and to encourage
    families to continue reading even after the
    program has ended.
    The kickoff assembly on March 10
    featured the musical talents of Mr. Greene
    dressed in flippers, mask, and snorkel as
    he encouraged the students to “Dive Into
    Reading”. Just for fun there is a coloring
    contest and, to learn a bit more about the
    sea, there are daily trivia questions about
    sea life. Throughout the program weekly
    incentives are being offered to encourage
    participation. In addition to our usual
    incentives many local merchants such as
    Arrow Mart, Pizza Corner, Touch of
    Grayce, Minnehan’s Fun Center, Wyo­
    ming County Bank, and McDonald’s of
    Mt. Morris and Dansville are all lending
    their support.
    To conclude the program Los Caribes,
    a Salsa band, performed for the students
    on March 31. An award ceremony for
    participation and special events were
    planned for April 1 and April 2. The
    students always look forward to this
    exciting program. There are many ways
    that families can be involved to help
    promote reading all year long. Here are
    some simple ideas: read aloud to your
    child; have your child read aloud to you;
    read the same page silently and then
    discuss it. You can read: jokes and riddles;
    recipes; sports articles; books; poetry;
    magazines; cereal boxes; cartoons;
    instructions for video games or anything
    else that interests your child!Have fun as
    you “Dive Into Reading” with your child.
    12
    Keshequa Central School
    P.
    O. Box 517
    Nunda, New York 14517­0517
    April 2004
    School Board Members
    Theron Foote
    John Gordinier
    Patricia Kreuzer
    Te rry Lowell, Vice­President
    Randy Todd
    Kevin Whiteman, President
    Joyce Zeh
    Lucinda Miner,
    Superintendent
    Dominic Aloisio,
    Business Administrator
    NONPROFIT
    ORGANIZATION
    US POSTAGE
    PAID
    PERMIT NO. 1
    NUNDA NY 14517
    Academic Achievement
    •High School Mock Trial Team finished second place in Livingston County
    •We continue with our “Homework Hotline” for 7
    th
    grade students. This offering
    has been in operation for one month and teachers have noticed a marked
    improvement in homework completion for the students who have been taking
    advantage of this opportunity. Teachers and aides staff this program. It concentrates on classroom content
    reinforcement, remediation, and low instructor­student ratio.
    •Interdisciplinary Distance Learning experience. On March 4
    th
    Mr. Cook and Mr. Raymond organized a
    virtual field trip to the Albany Institute of Art and History. This experience crossed over subject­area
    content, presenting artifacts and generating discussion that brought content learning to life.
    •We have begun arrangements for a remedial “math club” in preparation for the New York State Intermedi­
    ate Mathematics Assessment, that will be administered on May 4
    th
    and 5
    th
    . This effort identifies students
    who are at risk for not meeting state standards and designates activities that address their insufficient
    academic areas. Several middle school teachers, across grade levels, will collaborate in this effort.
    •
    Research continues on best practices for Reading Remediation.
    •
    Several Special Education students attended the County Transition Fair. Transition from High School to
    adult life is an important feature of Special Education. Students had the opportunity to meet adult service
    agencies such as DSS, VESID, ARC, DDSO and others.
    •PARP (Parents As Reading Partners) is underway. Kids are reading with their parents!
    •At our most recent 3
    rd
    and 4
    th
    grade team meeting, we looked at this year’s 4
    th
    Grade ELA test, analyzing
    the type of questioning and the genres of literature presented. We brainstormed some ideas for addressing
    these items in the classroom and shared the information with the ELA team later that day. The type of
    questions that appear on the 4
    th
    Grade ELA have been evolving. Whereas many of the questions in the past
    have dealt with finding the main idea of a passage, few of those types of questions have appeared recently.
    Instead, there has been a rise in the number of inferential questions, which are of a higher order and more
    challenging for students to answer correctly, especially if they have difficulty with comprehension.
    Goal
    #1

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