Pine Bush Board of Education –Tuesday, October 22, 2019 

REGULAR MEETING and PUBLIC HEARING – CVMS

Members Present:

• Gretchen Meier, President
• Kristin Graessle
• Dori Johnson
• Kristi Kheiralla                                                                                 
• Ross Tompkins
• Matthew Watkins

 

Members Absent:

• Cara Robertson, Vice President (attended executive session only via video conference)

 

Others Present:

• Tim Mains, Superintendent of Schools 
• Donna Geidel, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction                                                              
• Michael Pacella, Assistant Superintendent for Business              
• Deborah June, District Clerk
• Approximately 34 residents/students/staff members

 

Public Notice

Cara Robertson attended executive session of this meeting via video- conferencing from 716 N. Niles Avenue, South Bend, Indiana. The public had the right to attend the meeting from either location, however, she was unable to continue in the regular segment of the meeting due to a lost connection.

 

Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by President Gretchen Meier with the following motion offered:

MOVED by Trustee Watkins, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education open the regular meeting at approximately 6:18 PM

YES – 6           NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Consideration of Executive Session

MOVED by Trustee Graessle, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education adjourn to executive session at approximately 6:18 PM regarding a particular contract and personnel matter

YES – 6           NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED   (C. Robertson joined via video conference after motion)

 

Adjourn Executive Session

MOVED by Trustee Watkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education adjourn from executive session and return to regular session at approximately 7:17 PM.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED (Video-conference connection was lost with C. Robertson prior to adjourn).

 

Return to Regular Session

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education resume regular session at approximately 7:19 PM.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance

President Gretchen Meier welcomed those in attendance for public session of the regular meeting. She asked those in attendance to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and invited a young child to lead the pledge, noting the time at approx. 7:20 PM.

 

Recognition: SCHOOL BOARD

Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, has proclaimed October 21 – 25, 2019 as SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK in the Empire State.

The Board was recognized for their continued service to the Pine Bush CSD.  Superintendent Mains read The Governor’s proclamation in acknowledgment of the Board of Education.

State of New York   –  Executive Chamber Governor’s Proclamation

Whereas, each year, School Board Recognition Week is observed by the more than 700 school boards in school districts throughout the Empire State; and

Whereas, our state’s public education system is designed to meet the educational needs of all children and to empower them to become competent, productive contributors to society and an ever-changing world; and

Whereas, members of local school boards are dedicated to children, learning, and community, and devote many hours of service to elementary and secondary public education as they continually strive for improvement, excellence, and progress in education, recognizing that all children can be successful learners, especially when education is tailored to the individual needs of the child; and

 Whereas, local school boards members are strong advocates for public education and are responsible for communicating the needs of the school district to the public, and the public’s Expectations to the district, by working closely with parents, educational professionals, and other community members to create the educational vision we all hold for today’s students and those in the future; and

Whereas, the members of the New York State’s local school boards respond to the educational needs of the communities they serve and help ensure the solid foundation of our school system; in doing so, these leaders help strengthen our state’s educational system and improve future prospects for our children; and

Whereas, during October 21 – 25, 2019, special activities and programs will be held in communities across New York State in observance of School Board Recognition Week and it is fitting to join in acknowledging their commitment and contributions of members of local school boards;

Now, Therefore, I, Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim October 21 – 25, 2019 as School Board Recognition Week in the Empire State.

There was a presentation to school board members including recognition from the Administrators Association and District Pre-K Students, followed by a motion for brief recess in the cafeteria (approx.15 min).

Brief Recess

MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education adjourn for a brief recess for refreshments in the cafeteria, noting the time at approx. 7:30 PM.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Board of Education Meeting Resumed

Upon consensus of members of the Board of Education, the public meeting resumed at approx.7:46 PM.

 

PUBLIC HEARING – Mini Cell Tower

Superintendent Tim Mains, along with representatives from Verizon Wireless provided an overview for clarity and consideration of a Mini Cell Tower on the south end of the district. Superintendent Brian Tempio and Mike Crosby of Verizon Wireless were in attendance. Mr. Crosby reviewed an overview of plans for a proposed new site in Circleville. Some of the presentation included a review of the following:

Proposed Project: installation and operation of a new pole and co located wireless telecommunications site in the Town of Wallkill (the”Project Facility”), Project Need Overview, Capacity and Coverage, Capacity Utilization, Explanation of Wireless coverage, Explanation of Search Area, Existing 700 MHz Best Server – 105dBm RSRP, Existing 700 MHz Coverage,  Proposed 2100 MHz  Best Server 105dBM RSRP,  Existing 2100 MHz Coverage,  and RF Justification Summary.

During the presentation the board offered some of the following comments / questions:

Location change i.e. fire house, Schools are not open wireless, Questions/comment regarding if a person has another carrier other than Verizon – would 9-1-1 go through on another carriers phone,  Is Verizon certain it will do what we want it to do,  Question regarding site overload.  At the conclusion of the board discussion with Verizon Representatives, the floor was open to the public for comments.

Public comment Segment regarding Mini Cell Tower

Some of the following comments were raised during public comment:

• Concern regarding impact of health issues in children;
• Cost to school, benefit to Verizon
• District Wifi excellent;
• Hope concerns are further researched;
• Safety of students/staff for cell coverage is paramount.

(Some comments were addressed).

At the conclusion of the comment segment of the Public Hearing, the Board of Education was asked to take official actions regarding this matter.

Approval to Amend Agenda to Include Resolution (Walked in)

MOVED by Trustee Johnson , second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education amend the agenda to include a resolution entitled State Environmental Quality Review Act / Telecommunications Lease / Determination of Significance-Negative Declaration.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

Approval of Resolution – State Environmental Quality Review Act / Telecommunications Lease / Determination of Significance-Negative Declaration.

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:

PINE BUSH CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT RESOLUTION

STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT

TELECOMMUNICATIONS LEASE

DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE/NEGATIVE DECLARATION

WHEREAS, the Board of Education of the Pine Bush Central School District (“Board” or “District”) is considering a proposal to lease District property and issue access and utility easements to Verizon Wireless and utility companies for the construction and operation of a Telecommunications Facility at the Circleville Middle School, as identified on the attached site plan Addendum “A” (the “Proposed Action”); and

WHEREAS, the Proposed Action is subject to review under the State Environmental Quality Review Act and the Regulations promulgated thereunder (“SEQRA 6 NYCRR Part 617”); and

WHEREAS, the Board classified the Proposed Action as an Unlisted Action under SEQRA 6 NYCRR Part 617; and

WHEREAS, after classifying the Project as an Unlisted Action, in accordance with SEQRA, the Board circulated Part 1 of the Short Environmental Assessment Form (“SEAF”) and other supporting documentation for the coordinated review of the Proposed Action to all involved agencies; and

WHEREAS, under the applicable standards of SEQRA 6 NYCRR Part 617.6, the involved agencies did not object to the Board being declared lead agency to conduct the environmental review and issue a determination on the significance of the environmental impact of the Proposed Action, if any; and

WHEREAS, the Board is declared the lead agency for the SEQRA coordinated review of the Proposed Action.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Pine Bush Central School District Board of Education hereby determines based upon the record before it, including the site plan of the Proposed Action, and Parts 1, 2, and 3 of the SEAF attached hereto, that the Proposed Action will result in no significant adverse environmental impacts for the reasons stated in the SEAF; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if required, the Board directs its consultant Clark Patterson Lee to file and publish its determination of significance in the form of a SEQRA Negative Declaration.

Dated: October 22, 2019

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Approval to Proceed Forward with Next Steps

MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Watkins, that the Board of Education approve Pine Bush CSD proceeding forward with next steps in the approval / permitting process for the proposed Mini Cell Tower through Verizon Wireless.

YES – 5     NO – 1  (K.Graessle)    MOTION CARRIED

 

Approval of Minutes

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education approve the minutes from the October 7, 2019 regular board meeting.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Reports, Recommendations of the Superintendent of Schools

Consent Agenda

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following Consent Agenda as submitted by the Superintendent of Schools:

Tonight’s consent agenda included the appointment of the following new personnel:

• Candace Woznick –School Monitor
• Paul McMahill – Teaching Assistant

 

Creation

Board authorization to create the following position:

One (1) 6.5 hours/day School Monitor position due to a need at Pine Bush Elementary, effective October 23, 2019, salary as per contract.

 

Resignation

Non-Instructional

• Dennise Johnson, resignation for the purpose of retirement, from her position as a 1.0 FTE 12-month school secretary effective at the close of business June 30, 2020.
• Employee #20102219, resignation from employment, effective at the close of business on November 14, 2019. 

 

Leaves of Absence

Non-Instructional

• Alexandra Offenheiser, request for an unpaid leave of absence from her position as a 6.0 hours/day School Monitor, effective October 7, 2019 through November 15, 2019. 
• Dorota Dziadosz request for an extension of the unpaid leave of absence from her position as a 4.0 Hours /day School Monitor effective October 12, 2019 through November 1, 2019. 

 

Appointments

Instructional

• Paul McMahill, who holds a Teaching Assistant Level I certificate, be appointed on probation as a part time, non-tenure bearing, 6.5 Hour/Day Teaching Assistant, effective  October 23, 2019,  salary as per contract (pro-rated).

 

Non-Instructional

• Candace Woznick, probationary appointment of to a 2.5 Hours/Day position of School Monitor, effective October 23, 2019, salary as per contract (pro-rated). Such appointment is conditioned upon the District’s receipt of clearance for employment from the N.Y. State Education Department relating to the fingerprinting and criminal history record check of the prospective school employees. The emergency conditional segments of the appointments shall commence as of October 23, 2019 and shall not exceed twenty (20) business days.

 

Interscholastic

Board approval of the following interscholastic winter coaching appointments for the 2019-2020 school year at the appropriate interscholastic stipends:

Boys Indoor Track

• Al Schmidt, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (37)
• Anthony DiMarco, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 3 (4)
• Lisa Perry, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 1 (1)

Girls Indoor Track

• Gerald  Risco, Varsity Coach @ Level I , Step 10 (29)
• Melissa Schueler, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (12)
• Rebecca Torre, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 3 (3)

Cheerleading

• Angela Liska, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 3 (3)

Swim / Dive

• Kevin Blackwell, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (17)     
• John Barth, Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (17)
• Chris Blackwell,**Varsity Assistant Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (19)

Boys Basketball

• Stephen DiStefano, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (17)
• Daniel Conley, Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 10 (16)
• Derrick Frost, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 1 (2)
• Robert Lawrence, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 5 (5)
• James DiStefano, Volunteer/Unpaid Coach

Girls Basketball

• Michelle Bouffard, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 1(2)
• Elizabeth Valdez, Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 1(2)
• Kimberly Craft, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 3 (3)
• Lisa Bouffard, Volunteer/Unpaid Coach

Boys Wrestling

• Richard Ormsby, Varsity Coach @ Level I, Step 10 (13)
• Patrick Sause,** Junior Varsity Coach @ Level II, Step 5(5)
• John Petrofsky, Modified Coach @ Level III, Step 1 (2)

** Pending completion of coaching requirements/coaching license

 

Continuing Education

Approval of the following high school students for instructors, assistants, counselors or lifeguards for continuing education courses for the 2019-2020 school year. All classes and salaries are contingent upon enrollment.       

INSTRUCTOR NAME    CLASS/POSITION        PAY  

• Monica Antonelli-Guido   Beginning Orchestra Strings    $125/day

 

Per Diem Substitutes

Board approval for the appointment of the following individuals as per diem substitutes effective October 23, 2019 at board approved per diem substitutes rates:

• Olga Bradley
• Matthew Dowling
• Anne Glenn-Fellenzer
• Ethan Knoll
• Kristy Velez

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

(Board member expressed positive comment regarding new continuing education class).

CSE and CPSE Placement Recommendation                                       

MOVED by Trustee Watkins, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve all IEPs of the Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education as submitted by the CSE and CPSE Chairperson and reviewed by Trustee Kheiralla.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

No Place for Hate – Promise and Resolution of Respect

Assistant Superintendent Donna Geidel read the No Place for Hate Promise and Resolution of Respect for the reaffirmation and commitment.  The Board of Education was asked to take action on the following as submitted.         

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education reaffirmed its commitment to the “No Place for Hate Promise and approved the following “No Place for Hate Promise and Resolution of Respect,” for adoption as submitted:

 No Place for Hate Promise

 I PROMISE, to do my best to treat everyone fairly.

I PROMISE, to do my best to be kind to everyone — even if they are not like me.

IF I SEE someone being hurt or bullied, I will tell a teacher.

EVERYONE should be able to feel safe and happy in school.

I WANT OUR SCHOOL to be No Place for Hate.

 

Resolution of Respect

We pledge from this day forward to do our best to combat prejudice and to stop those who violate someone’s civil rights. We will seek to understand those who are different. We believe that one person can make a difference and that no person should stand by when it comes to opposing hate. We will speak out against prejudice and discrimination. We will reach out to those who are victims of hate. We know that we must all promote harmony, equality, and respect. By signing the pledge, we commit ourselves to creating a community that is No Place for Hate.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

Roll Call

M. Watkins         Yes         D. Johnson          Yes

R. Tompkins       Yes         K. Kheiralla          Yes

G. Meier              Yes         K. Graessle         Yes

 

Transportation/Busing Update

Superintendent Tim Mains and Assistant Superintendent Michael Pacella further updated the members of the Board of Education and community residents on the current status of student transportation, to date.

Superintendent Mains, Assistant Superintendent Michael Pacella, Director of Transportation Kurt Wickham, and senior representative of Birnie Bus met at great length. Based on five hours of interviews and discussions three factors came to the forefront which impacted the change: communication, planning,  and time. All parties involved are understanding of the grand plan. Most critical changes are the routes from Versa Trans to Transfinder. Additionally mentioned, the district did not have access to driver feedback. The district and bus company are committed to resolving all student transportation matters. Currently, there are 10 – 12 appeals for consideration / evaluation. Moving forward, regular meeting will be held  between the bus company, Mr. Wickham, and senior leadership. Board member Cara Robertson will be included in the regular meetings, as well. In conclusion, an apology was offered to parents for any concern or stress they may have experienced during the transportation transition.

 

Public Participation

President Meier opened the first public participation at approx. 8:40 PM requesting no personal references.  The following comments/questions/concerns were raised:

• Board president read a statement
• Resident asked question pertaining to district incentive to install tower;
• How much money will district receive and what are plans for that money (supt. addressed);
• Question-Did Verizon approach district or vice versa (addressed by supt.);
• Concern regarding rumors that shuttle buses are being discontinued (supt. addressed);
• Comment many buses are passing each other, many runs, could be cost effective to look into further;
• Question/comment regarding location of cell tower and will it be disguised (supt. addressed);
• Comment- children should get on bus on the same side of the road;
• Resident offered comments regarding bus safety and the safety of all children;
• Resident commented on cell tower and inquired about other alternatives.

 

Approval of Separation Agreement/Release Agreement

MOVED by Trustee Watkins, second by Trustee Kheiralla, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:

                BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education (“Board”) of the Pine Bush Central School District does hereby approve the Separation Agreement and Release Agreement (“Agreement”) with employee, Number 20102219, a copy of which is available at the District Clerk’s Office; and

                BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board hereby authorizes the Superintendent of Schools to execute all documents to effectuate said Agreement.

Date: October 22, 2019

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Approval of Amended Policy for First Reading

• Amended Policy 3120

MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education approve amended Policy 3120 for first reading:

Amended Policy 3120 – School District Standards and Guideline for Web Page Publishing

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Upcoming Board Meetings, Events / Old, New Business / Updates

Upcoming board meetings and events were announced Tuesday evening:

The start time for the regular sessions of our board meetings – 7:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

Regular Board Meetings:

• Tuesday, November 12, 2019, 7:00 PM at Pine Bush High School
• Tuesday, November 26, 2019, 7:00 PM at Circleville Middle

 

Other District Meetings/Events:

• October 29, 2019, MHSSC Staff Development Workshop, 4:30 PM dinner/5:00 PM program to be held at Mt. St. Mary College presented by the law firm of Thomas, Drohan, Waxman, Petigrow & Mayle, LLP entitled Tinker at 50: How Have Technology & Political Discourse Affected the Analysis? 

          (Please advise Debbie June or Jayna McAteer if interested in attending).

 

• Tuesday, November 5, 2019, Superintendent’s Conference Day, No School for Students
• Monday, November 11, 2019, Veterans Day No School

 

Upcoming Events:

• NYSSBA’s 100th Annual Convention & Education Expo in Rochester, NY

       Thursday, October 24, 2019 through Saturday, October 26, 2019.

• Wednesday, November 6, 2019, 7:00 PM – OCSBA Delegates’ Meeting
• Tuesday, November 12, 2019, 8:15 AM to 10:15 AM at CVMS- Breakfast Honoring Local Veterans for their Service

 

Updates/Comments

• Administration/board members offered comments regarding the success of the soccer tieam, field hockey, and swimming.
• Request to confirm date of Fall musical, noting change from calendar.

 

Old/New Business

Continued Board Discussion: Strategic Goals

MOVED by Trustee Kheiralla, second by Trustee Johnson, that the Board of Education table the continued discussion pertaining to Strategic Goals for that evening.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Business & Finance

Claim Auditor’s Reports

MOVED by Trustee Tompkins, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education acknowledge receipt and acceptance of the following Claims Auditor’s Reports as submitted:

Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0021 dated 9/27/2019 check run authorizing payments in the amount of $2,389,218.57

• Cafeteria Fund (17 checks 004973-004989)    $   9,380.23
• Crispell SAF (2 checks 002308-002309)   $  787.50
• HS Activity Fund (4 checks 003903-003906)   $  1,181.15                         
• Federal Fund (4 checks 002475-002478)  $  56,327.86         
• Capital Fund (1 checks 001788)   $  4,424.22
• General Fund (72 checks 060222 -060293)   $  2,314,774.11
• District Activity AC (4 checks 004665-004668)   $  2,343.50

              Total     $  2,389,218.57

 

Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0022 10/4/2019 check run authorizing payments in the amount of $587,495.43

• Cafeteria Fund (14 checks 004990-005003)    $ 59,493.15
• Crispell SAF (1 check 002310) $   770.39
• HS Activity Fund (1 check 003907)    $   400.70
• Trust & Agency Acct. (0 checks)    $   26,575.00
• Federal Fund (2 checks 002479-002480)    $  12,267.31                         
• General Fund (56 checks 060294-060349)   $   486,652.08
• District Activity AC (4 checks 004669-004672) $   1,336.80

                   Total     $   587,495.43

 

Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0023 dated 10/10/2019 payroll authorizing payments in the amount of $ 889,436.59

• Trust & Agency Acct. (7 checks 003995-004001)    $ 889,436.59                              

                       Total     $     889,436.59

 

Claims Auditor’s Report covering Warrant # 0024 10/11/2019 check run authorizing payments in the amount of $477,307.52

• Cafeteria Fund (10 checks 005004-005013)    $  15,306.30
• Crispell SAF (2 checks 002311-002312)  $   1,587.58                              
• HS Activity Fund (3 check 003908-003910)    $    537.18         
• Trust & Agency Acct. (1 check 004002)   $   11,071.97         
• Federal Fund (2 checks 002481-002482)  $   2,411.24                         
• General Fund (70 checks 060350-060419)   $  445,017.96
• District Activity AC (4 checks 004673-004676)  $   1,375.29

                   Total        $ 477,307.52

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

District Treasurer’s Reports

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Graessle, that the Board of Education acknowledge receipt and acceptance of the following District Treasurer’s Report/Cash Flow Projection for the period September 1, 2019 through September 30, 2019                

• General Fund Reports: 

Monthly Treasurer’s Reports / Transfers

Budget Status

• Monthly Treasurer’s Reports / Budget Status for:

School Lunch Fund

Capital Fund      

Federal Fund

• Monthly Treasurer’s Reports for:

Trust & Agency Fund     

District-wide Activity Fund

Student Activity Funds for: Pine Bush High School,  Circleville Middle School and Crispell Middle School

 Expendable Trust Fund (Scholarships)

Academy of Finance

 Human Services Academy

Debt Service

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Approval of Resolution / Education Contribution Agreement – Dubois Solar, LLC.

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education approve the following resolution:

RESOLUTION

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Pine Bush Central School District approves an agreement with Dubois Solar, LLC; and further authorizes the Superintendent to sign the Agreement, a fully executed copy of which will be filed with the District Clerk.

Date: October 22, 2019

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

Roll Call Vote:

M. Watkins          Yes         D. Johnson           Yes

R. Tompkins         Yes         K. Kheiralla           Yes

G. Meier               Yes         K. Graessle           Yes

 

Public Participation

President Meier opened the second public participation at approx. 9:21 PM requesting no personal references.  No comments/questions/concerns were raised.

Consideration of Executive Session

Hearing no matters for executive session, President Meier called for a motion to adjourn.

Adjournment

MOVED by Trustee Johnson, second by Trustee Tompkins, that the Board of Education adjourn the regular meeting, noting the time at approx. 9:22 PM.

YES – 6     NO – 0    MOTION CARRIED

 

Note: BOARD MEETINGS are video recorded and can be viewed at www.pinebushschools.org           

Deborah A. June, District Clerk

Pine Bush CSD