The Board of Education’s regular meeting was called to order by President Jason Sanchez at 7:00 p.m. in the LGI at CVA.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all those present.

Members Present                                      

• Jason Sanchez, Pres.                                

• Maggie Wesolowski, Vice Pres.                                       

• Jonathan Boucher                                      

• Travis Costin

• Matt Darrow

• Pattie Day

• Valerie Day

Members Absent

• None

Staff Present

• Jeremy M. Rich, Supt.

• Alaine Canestrari

• Charlie Pratt

• Brian Van Vechten

• Mark Bunce

• James Mott

Guests Present  (those signing in)

• Lisa Stanley

• Terry Stanley

• Dana Clanten

• Cindy Negron

• Nelson Negron

• Danielle Sterling

• Holly Bacon

• Riley Bacon

• Bob Bacon

• Madison Traskey

• Abigail Paddock

• Fiona Stewart

• Molly Brien

• Ryan Parks

• Lorelei Stanley

• Ryan Clanton

• Carsen Boucher

• Dylan Shafer

• Brian Dempsey

• Jen Dempsey

• Seth Boyer

• Shannon Stewart

• Christina Lyman

• James White

• Gregg Riddle - Kiwanis

• Katy Dean

• Izzy White

• Nina Taratuchin

• Josh Clanton

• Abby Paddock

• Ki House

• Tashia House

• Alex Lampasona

• Shannon Stewart

• Annamarie Lyman

• Alex Duga

• Sarah Chandler

• Dylan Negron

• Erin Brien

• Julie Joyce

• Kevin Joyce

• Christopher Joyce

• Anthony Joyce

• Dave Paddock

• Sue Paddock

• Kinzea Spring

• Becky Dean

• Elijah Chandler

• Mary White

AGENDA CHANGES

Consent Agenda

D. (d) Volunteer Coaching Appointments – 2023 – 2024:

• Taylor White; Modified Wrestling Volunteer Coach

New Business

B.      Approval to Dispose of Surplus Goods:

• Technology Equipment – Per CVA Inventory List dated 12/20/23

PRESENTATION

• Kiwanis Student of the Month Recognition—Mr. Rich introduced Mr. Greg Riddle, President of Mohawk Valley Central Kiwanis.  Mr. Riddle provided information regarding the history of Kiwanis and recognition being provided to students.  Mr. Riddle congratulated the student recipients and thanked the Board of Education.  Mr. VanVechten presented awards to high school students, Ki House and Kinzea Spring.  Mr. Pratt presented awards to middle school students, Raelynn Yerina and Lilly Rappa.  Mr. VanVechten and Mr. Pratt shared attributes of each student that qualified them for this recognition.  Following the presentations, Mr. Rich congratulated the students.

• Recognition of Conference and Area All-State Music Participants—The Board recognized students who participated in Area All-State and Conference All-State Music Festivals.  Mr. Bunce explained the process for being selected to participate in Area All-State.  He also provided historical information regarding NYSSMA, including that the first pilot of NYSSMA was held at the former Ilion CSD.  He also shared that Central Valley made up 19% of the vocal ensemble this year, which was the most in any School District.  Mr. Bunce presented each student with a token of recognition of their accomplishment.  He also recognized the student participating in Conference All-State.  Mr. Rich congratulated all students who participated.

• A brief reception followed with refreshments provided by the cafeteria staff for the student participants and their parents.

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Superintendent’s Report                            

Mr. Rich provided an update on the following items:

• Scheduling Budget Workshop – January 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. & Scheduling BOE Professional Development: Mr. Rich proposed various times in conjunction with scheduling BOE Professional Development.  The Board discussed potentially scheduling these sessions for the same night.

• Closing of Remington Arms:  Mr. Rich shared information he received at a recent meeting with legislators at the local Municipal Building brainstorming next steps.  Mr. Rich identified upcoming environmental audits and plans for the building in the interim. Mr. Rich discussed how this will impact village and school taxes and expressed his intent to continue to be involved in discussions.

• Facilities Report:  The Board was provided with the Facilities Report for their review and Mr. Rich expressed he was proud of the work the department was doing.

• Athletic Report:  The Board was provided with the Athletic Report for their review.  Mr. Mott provided an update regarding the Huddle camera system and its implementation.  Mr. Mott explained efforts of multiple departments in an effort to learn the intricacies of the program.  Mr. Rich stated that the program is being used for more than originally intended, and Mr. Mott acknowledged feeling confident in it’s progression.  Mr. Mott answered general questions the Board had regarding Athletic procedures.  Mr. Mott also reported that the Spring season will be used to pilot the Babe DelGrego program.

• Food Service Report:  The Board was provided with the Food Service Report and a Bistro menu for their review.

• Administrative Reports: The Board was provided with Administrative Reports for their review.

• Non-Resident Student Policy:  Mr. Rich discussed how the current non-resident student policy needs updating due to being ten years removed from the merger.  Mr. Rich discussed proposed changes and provided examples of why change was needed.  Members of the Board asked questions pertaining to financial aspects and options were discussed.  Criteria for maintaining enrollment and proof of residency was also discussed.

• Work Place Violence Policy: Mr. Rich discussed the policy the Board would be voting on to assess for environmental safety needs, vulnerabilities, and mandatory trainings the buildings will undergo required by the policy.

• Early Mail Voting: Mr. Rich and Mrs. Stacey Gurtowski, District Clerk, explained the new Early Mail Voting option for eligible voters and shared the guidance received by the District’s attorney regarding the matter.  Mrs. Gurtowski discussed how this will impact voting procedures/systems for those physically coming to vote as well.

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Administrative Reports

The Board was provided with the Administrative Reports for their review.  Mrs. Sally McCann-Kramas, Director of Human Resources will be completing a quarterly report.

(Copy of reports on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Business Official’s Report

The Board received copies of the Business Official’s Report and were offered an opportunity to ask questions.  Mr. Humphrey was absent but Mr. Rich  explained preliminary budget information.  Mr. Rich explained that the finances lost of merger aid was gained in foundation aid and that 90% of the budget is already allocated.  Mr. Rich stated Mr. Humphrey will go into more detail during the Budget Workshop scheduled for January 8, 2024.

(Copy of reports on file in District Clerk’s files.)

BOARD DISCUSSION

• Mr. Darrow inquired about a minimum wage increase for bus drivers.  Mr. Rich acknowledged that bus drivers are underpaid and this was presented in discussions with the union.  Mr. Rich reported he recognizes the need for increased wage, but is not able to offer that to the entirety of the union.  Mr. Rich stated he wished to continue to pay our own people instead of paying a company.  Mr. Rich stated there were options for Memorandum of Agreement for an increased wage.

• Mr. Costin inquired who was responsible for Remington Field Lights.  Mr. Rich reported that Mr. Miller, Director of Facilities, was addressing maintenance needs of the property and discussed the shared use of the field.  Other rate questions were also discussed based on athletic supervision.

• Mr. Darrow inquired if certain bus drivers could accept trips for additional wage instead of pushing it to an outside agency.  Options were discussed and Mr. Rich indicated he would review this request.

PUBLIC OPEN FORUM

There was no public participation this evening.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION

There were no items removed from the consent agenda for individual consideration.

CONSENT AGENDA

Approval of Minutes

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the minutes of the following meeting.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Regular Meeting – November 15, 2023

Acceptance of Resignations

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board accepted the following resignations.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Kiya Edgett, Teacher Aide, Effective 12/21/23

• Scott Gay, Bus Mechanic, Effective 12/3/23

• Candace Reel, School Bus Monitor – 4 hrs/day, Effective 12/13/23

(Copy of resignations on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Unpaid Leave of Absence Requests

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the following requests for unpaid leaves of absence.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Elizabeth Morgan, Teacher Aide, Effective 11/30/23

• Lynsie Wiegand, English Teacher, Eff. 12/12/23 – 2/2/24

(Copy of requests on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Personnel Appointments/Adjustments

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the following personnel appointments/adjustments.  Motion carried 7-0.

Non-Instructional Appointments – Permanent:

• Charles Marriott, Building Cleaner, Effective 1/14/24

• Ann Salamon, Occupational Therapist – R, Effective 1/15/24

Adjustment in Teacher Aide Hours:

• Leta Williams, From 7 hrs/day to 5.25 hrs/day, Effective 11/20/23

Coaching Appointments – 2023-2024:

• Kaitlyn Couchman, Girls Varsity Bowling Coach

• Josh Huntley, Boys Varsity Volleyball Coach

• Nate Laymon, Indoor Track Assistant Coach

• Tyler Matteson, Boys JV Volleyball Coach COND

• Kevin Wheelock, Girls Varsity Volleyball Coach

Volunteer Coaching Appointments – 2023-2024:

• Michael Farber, Varsity Indoor Track Volunteer Assistant Coach

• Taylor White, Modified Wrestling Volunteer Coach

Non-Instructional Appointments:

• Brandy Torres, Athletic Supervisor COND, Effective 12/18/23

Approval of Personnel Appointments/Adjustments  (cont’d)

Non-Instructional Appointments – Six-Month Probationary:

• Jesse J. Dedla, Building Cleaner, Effective 11/27/23

• Kathleen Fitzgibbons, Food Service Helper - 5 hrs/day, Effective 11/27/23

• David Bello, Food Service Helper - 5 hrs/day, Effective 12/11/23

• Scott Gay, Building Maintenance Helper, Effective 12/4/23

• Sarah Alkinburgh, Teacher Aide - 6 hrs/day, Effective 12/12/23

• Brittany Brewer, Teacher Aide - 7 hrs/day, Effective 12/18/23

• Courtney Frenyea, Teacher Aide - 7 hrs/day COND, Effective 1/3/24

Tutors – As Needed:

• Shauna Michael

• Richard Mucurio

Extracurricular Appointment 2023-2024:

• Stacy Willis, Grade Level Chair – Grade Three, Eff. Retro. 9/7/23

Volunteer Appointments – 2023-2024:

• Jillian Femia, Fisher Elementary School Volunteer

Substitute Appointments – BOCES Sub Service – Conditional:

• Peyton Hoffman, Substitute – Conditional*, Effective 12/21/23

• Brady Murphy, Substitute – Conditional*, Effective 12/21/23

*Conditional pending fingerprinting clearance and completion of BOCES Sub Service Process

Substitute Appointments – December 2023 – BOCES Sub Service:

• Karissa Barnes                                                                    

• Teresa Doxtater                                                       

• Hannah Hoke                                                                      

• Jenna Johnson                                                       

• Julie Joyce

• Rachel Maziarz

• Jennah Nitti

• Christina Noffer

• Samantha Oriole

• Wendy Redner

• Carmella Tripepi

• Jacquelyn Zygmunt

Rescind Substitute Approval – December 2023 – BOCES Sub Service:

• Regina Testa

Substitute Appointments:

• Michelle Dooley , Substitute School Bus Monitor, Effective 12/14/23

• Sean Filkins, Substitute Cleaner, Effective 11/29/23

• Patrick Keady-Dooley, Substitute Cleaner, Effective 12/4/23

• Elizabeth Morgan, Substitute English Teacher, Effective 11/30/23

Approval of Financial Reports

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the following financial reports.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Financial Reports – November 2023

• Cash Account Summary – November 2023

• Internal Claims Auditors Log Summaries – November 2023

• Extracurricular Summary Report – November 2023

(Copy of reports on file in District Clerk’s files.)

OLD BUSINESS

Policy/Regulation Audit - Section 8000 (8501-8507.1) Instruction

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mrs. Wesolowski, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the following policy audit.  Motion carried 7-0.

• #8501—Prereferral and Declassification Teams

• #8502—Programs for Students with Disabilities (Under Section 504)

• #8503—Independent Educational Evaluations

• #8503.1—Independent Educational Evaluations

• #8503.2—Reimbursement Rates

• #8504—Preschool Education

• #8505—Selection, Appointment, and Compensation of Impartial Hearing Officers (IHO)

• #8501.1—Selection, Appointment, and Compensation of Impartial Hearing Officers (IHO)

• #8506—Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential

• #8507—Response to Intervention RTI

• #8507.1—Structure of the Response to Intervention RTI Program

(Copy of policies on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Tenure Appointment Correction from Four-Year to Three-Year Probationary Appointment

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made Mrs. Valerie Day, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved a correction to the following tenure appointment.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Keila Frederick, Elementary Teacher, Effective 9/1/21

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Correction to Coaching Appointment 2023 – 2024:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mrs. Wesolowski, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved a correction to the following coaching appointment.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Jennifer Hand, Girls JV Volleyball Coach

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

NEW BUSINESS

Approval of Arrangement of Services – CSE/CPSE/504 Accommodation Plan Meetings

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mrs. Wesolowski, seconded by Mrs. Valerie Day, the Board approved the arrangement of services of the following CSE/CPSE/504 Accommodation Plan meetings.  Motion carried 7-0.

• October 31, 2023

• November 1, 2023

• November 3, 2023

• November 7, 2023

• November 9, 2023

• November 13, 2023

• November 14, 2023

• November 17, 2023

• November 20, 2023

• November 28, 2023

• November 29, 2023

• November 30, 2023

      (Copy of minutes on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Disposal of Surplus Goods

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mrs. Pattie Day, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved to dispose of the following surplus goods.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Fisher Library Discards – Inventory List dated 12/9/22 – 12/6/23

• Jarvis Library Discards – Inventory List dated 5/16/23 - 12/1/23

• Technology Equipment – Per CVA Inventory List dated 12/20/23

(Copy of lists on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Acceptance of Donations

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mrs. Weselowski, the Board accepted the following donations.  Mr. Rich and Board Members expressed their appreciation for the listed donations.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Mohawk Valley Apparel, Miscellaneous Apparel, Est. Value: $1,840.00

• Ann Warner via the Russell D. Warner Rev Trust, Est. Value: $10,000.00
  To Mohawk Central School for Discretionary Use        

• Central Valley Elementary PTO, Third Grade Field Trip, Est. Value: $500.00         

• CVCSD Foundation,  Chamber Choir - National Music Festival - Carnegie Hall        Est. Value: $1,800.00

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Adoption of 2023-2024 Budget Timeline

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent of Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board adopted the 2024-2025 Budget Timeline.  Motion carried 7-0.

(Copy of the budget timeline on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Adjustments to 2023-2024 Substitute Rates Due to New Minimum Wage

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved the following adjustments to 2023-2024 substitute rates due to the new minimum wage.  Motion carried 7-0.

•  Classification from Current Rate to Jan. 1, 2023 Rate:

•  Retired Teacher from $125.00/day to $130.00/day

• Certified Teacher from $110.00/day to $115.00/day

• Uncertified Teacher from $99.40/day to $105.00/day

• Certified Teaching Assistant from $99.40 to $105.00/day

•  Uncertified Teaching Assistant from $99.40/day to 105.00/day

• Teacher Aide from $14.20/hour to $15.00/hour

•  Registered Nurse from $110.00/day to $115.00/day

•  Licensed Practical Nurse from $104.40/day to $109.40/day

 These rates are due to an increase from $14.20/hour to $15.00/hour

Seven (7) hour work day = $105.00 minimum wage day rate

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Policy Review – First Reading

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mrs. Wesolowski, the Board approved to waive their first reading and adopted the policies below.  Motion carried 7-0.

• New Policy: #5010: Workplace Violence Prevention Policy and Program

• New Regulation: #5010.1: Workplace Violence Incident Report

• Appendix 2-B: Evaluation of the Physical Environment

• Appendix 3: List of Risks and Mitigation Efforts

      (Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval of Overnight Field Trip Requests

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mrs. Pattie Day, seconded by Mrs. Valerie Day, the Board approved the following overnight field trip requests.  Members of the Board inquired how this was funded; Mr. Rich reported this was entirely funded by the NNDCC and stated they do a great job of fundraising during the  year.  Motion carried 7-0.

• NNDCC Senior Cruise; March 13, 2024 - March 18, 2024 - Jacksonville, FL

• NNDCC Grade 9 - New Cadet Drill/PT/Academic/Drone Competition

• March 8, 2024 - March 9, 2024 - Combined trip with Notre Dame H.S. Cadets, West Point - Colts Neck H.S. - New Jersey

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

Approval to Adopt Corrective Action Plan for Comptroller’s Report

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Jeremy M. Rich, on a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board approved to adopt the following Corrective Action Plan.  Motion carried 7-0.

• Central Valley Central School IT Asset Management Report of Examination

(Copy of information on file in District Clerk’s files.)

NEXT MEETING:    Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – Regular Meeting

ADJOURNMENT

On a motion made by Mr. Darrow, seconded by Mr. Costin, the Board adjourned their regular meeting at 8:45 p.m.  Motion carried 7-0.

                                                                        Stacey Gurtowski, District Clerk