Where education always shines! THE LIONS’ PRIDE of WEST ISLIP SCHOOLS www.wi.k12.ny.us Official publication of the West Islip School District FALL FUN AT PAUL J. BELLEW WEST ISLIP STUDENTS GIVE BACK In connection with a study on human rights, Mr. DeMaio’s 5th grade class at Bayview Elementary School brought back a tradition of the past, “Trick or Treating for UNICEF”. Instead of requesting candy, students carried their orange UNICEF boxes to collect change to help children in countries who cannot enjoy the bare necessities of life. Kudos to Mr. DeMaio’s class! In July, twelve West Islip students and two teachers traveled to Antigua, Guatemala to volunteer with a Minnesota based nonprofit organization called Common Hope. Students worked on various projects, including building a tworoom home for a family and participating in cultural exchange opportunities. The group visited schools and led craft projects, baking classes and cheerleading and football clinics. This experience was rewarding and life changing for all. The West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition presented a program named "Pink Flags of October," where hundreds of flags were displayed on the front lawn of Good Samaritan Hospital to commemorate October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On September 28, 2014 West Islip High School’s Vocal Motion performed at the WIBCC’s Pink Flag Ceremony. The group of talented juniors and seniors captivated the emotional audience with an uplifting performance of the song “The Power of One”. VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION AT BAYVIEW Students and staff at Bayview Elementary School welcomed local veterans on November 10, 2014 as part of their Veterans Day Celebration. The festivities began by a grand welcoming of the veterans by the entire building, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of “God Bless America”. Principal John Mullins was presented with a flag from the West Islip American Legion. The morning proceeded with the veterans visiting all grade levels, answering questions about their experiences in the military and teaching the proper flag etiquette. In preparation for the celebration, displays were set up throughout the building including a “Wall of Heroes”, a photo display of family members of Bayview who served in the military. Thank you letters were read by the students and presented to our guests. Students also donated their snack money to the Wounded Warrior Project, demonstrating their understanding of the importance of “giving back.” In addition, Bayview families brought in artifacts that were displayed in a “Museum” to further educate the students about the importance of Veterans Day. It was day filled with gratitude and many moving experiences, felt not only by the students and staff, but also by their honored guests. Bayview’s Wall of Heroes, Museum, Principal John Mullins {pictured second from left} after receiving a flag from members of the West Islip American Legion December 2014 Creativity, imagination and team work were the ingredients needed for this annual P.J. Bellew Halloween tradition. A special thank you to all the families who participated in this fun-filled activity and to the Bellew staff who organized this charity event. The pumpkin project was supported by the Character Education Committee and the October character education trait of Goal Setting. Students set many goals during the month including spending time with family and helping others in the community. Without a doubt, this project reached those goals! Pumpkins were displayed the week of Halloween and students were invited to donate a handful of change to their favorite pumpkin. The money collected was given to local families in need this holiday season. Mrs. Pratt, P.J. Bellew Principal, shared that over $600 was collected and a great time was had by all! Students and staff at Manetuck Elementary School are participating in The Path to “PAW”-fect Character! program which provides and instills a schoolwide environment of respect, responsibility and compassion through heightened awareness of how individual actions, thoughts and behavior affect not only oneself, but others. A character trait is designated each month and assigned a color. On kick-off day each month, students are encouraged to wear a colored shirt that represents their awareness of the character trait. Students are involved in lessons and class discussions; assemblies supplement the classroom activities. A Character Education Award is presented to one student in each class that best exemplifies that month’s character trait. Recipients of the Character Education Award will have their names displayed on the “The Path to PAW-fect Character” in the main hallway. THE PATH TO PAW-FECT CHARACTER @ MANETUCK Mural painted by second grade teacher, Mrs. LaPrarie RESPECT RESPONSIBILITY COMPASSION TRUSTWORTHINESS STUDENT RELEASE INFORMATION Under Title 45, US Code, Part 99, The Right of Parents and Students, parents who do not desire release of student information to the public must make that specific request in writing. Mail your request to Mrs. Bernadette Burns, Superintendent of Schools, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795. Without such notification, West Islip Public Schools will release and/or publish in the district newsletters, newspapers, other publications and the website, information relating to student achievements, programs, athletics, music and art events, etc. PARENTS FOR MEGAN’S LAW In order to provide parents/guardians with information concerning convicted sex offenders who are living or working in the district, our school district is benefiting from a no-cost sex offender email alert notification program. Parents for Megan’s Law will email registered residents informing them of any new sex offender’s presence and directing them to its website where one can access a full copy of the notification. You can register at www.parentsformeganslaw.org. WHOM DO I CALL WITH A QUESTION OR SUGGESTION? The West Islip School District’s communication protocols help to promote direct, open and respectful interactions so that the problems and concerns can be worked out quickly and efficiently. The communication protocol starts with the staff member closest to the situation, as that person will usually have the most information. At times, additional personnel are required to resolve specific situations. Visit the district website at www.wi.k12.ny.us for a listing of appropriate communication channels for a variety of topics. Photographs throughout this publication courtesy of Joanne LaDuca, Webmaster, David Kaufman and the Photography Club, and Ed Bell. WEST ISLIP SCHOOL DISTRICT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 2014-2015 WI Board of Education 2014 - 2015 Information on meeting dates, committee members and minutes of Board of Education meetings may be found at www.wi.k12.ny.us Front (l to r): Annmarie LaRosa, Steve Gellar, Scott Brady Back (l to r): Michael Zotto, Kevin O’Connor, Ronald Maginniss and Robert Ulrich MISSION STATEMENT The West Islip Community is committed to excellence in education through the establishment of an academic, vocational and social environment in which all children can learn and succeed. Our students will be provided the opportunity to develop their self-esteem and a respect for others while acquiring the knowledge, skills and attitudes to become responsible citizens in a rapidly changing world. Our goal is to have students think in global terms and develop cultural sensitivity and an international orientation. We seek to instill in our students the ability to share their commonalities, celebrate their differences, and appreciate that learning is a lifelong process. GOVERNANCE OBJECTIVES: Establish a cycle for the regular review of all district policies Review Sections 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the Board of Education Policy Handbook, ensuring that related regulations are included and timely COMMUNITY A Word from the Superintendent of Schools BERNADETTE M. BURNS Dear Parents & Community Members: Lately, we have been spreading the word that West Islip has 2020 vision. But what does that mean? A vision defines the optimal desired future of what we want to achieve over time. To our school community, the vision is our inspiration as to what West Islip is focused on achieving in five, ten, or more years. West Islip has 2020 vision, a clear vision, that each child leaves our school system with the skills to successfully pursue his/her dream in the 21st century world. New York State has completed the fourth year of a twelve year phase-in of higher standards, which culminates in the requirement that the Class of 2022 pass, with proficiency, Common Core Regents Exams, and exit high school college- and career-ready. To this end, our school community has made great strides in the past few months. We are ready, willing and able to continue with the momentum and excitement that has been generated, and we believe that the 2014-2015 school year is poised to be one of great achievements for our students and academic growth for our District. West Islip has 2020 vision. It is apparent that our community wants nothing less than safe schools and rigorous academic opportunities and extracurricular programs for its children. Such abundant community support is one of the things that makes this district a special place to teach and learn. It is an honor and pleasure to serve the students and community of the West Islip School District. I thank you all for your continued support and for your commitment to the children that we serve. Sincerely, OBJECTIVES: Establish guidelines to ensure effective communication among stakeholders, including educators, parents and students, to provide ongoing feedback about student progress toward college and career readiness By June 2015, conduct at least two (2) parent academies to foster parent and community involvement in the West Islip Public Schools Bernadette M. Burns Superintendent of Schools PARENTS ADVANCING WEST ISLIP STUDENTS CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION OBJECTIVES: Increase student achievement on state standardized tests by meeting the SED's Annual Measurable Objectives in English Language Arts and Mathematics for each cohort Increase the number of students who achieve a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation by 3% as compared to the 2013-2014 school year Disaggregate student data on a monthly basis and utilize results to discuss student achievement Provide professional development to staff with a focus on improving student achievement Thanks to funding by PAWS {Parents Advancing West Islip Students}, the following donations were accepted and approved by the Board of Education. FACILITIES OBJECTIVES: Investigate and develop a cost analysis for options to replace and/or extend the useable life of school building roofs, doors, and windows, and support the emerging technologies Develop a long-range facility infrastructure plan that supports the emerging instructional, security and safety-related technologies Supporting materials for elementary guided reading libraries Utility amplification system in the West Islip High School Performing Arts Center Expression Tool Kit used in the instruction and practice of organizing and expanding oral and written language VuPoint Solutions Magic Wand Portable Scanner with auto-feed docks allowing teachers to have immediate access to printed materials from a variety of sources projected onto classroom SMART Board Wi-Fi enabled iPad 2 devices enabling reading students to be provided with an article at their individual reading level Smart Music subscriptions which is an interactive music program TECHNOLOGY OBJECTIVES: Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of achieving all other district goals by updating the district’s technology plan Increase opportunities for implementing innovative educational technology resources for instructional, operational, and administrative use Mark your calendar for the PAWS Annual Gala to be held on Friday, March 13, 2015. Additional information on PAWS can be found at www.wi.k12.ny.us IT’S 2014. DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR TAX MONEY IS GOING? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE GEA… The Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) was introduced in 2009-2010 when New York State had a $10 billion budget deficit. Since that time, the state legislature has redirected dollars typically targeted to school aid to close the state deficit, shifting its school aid obligation to the local taxpayers. Additionally, New York State has attempted to accomplish major educational reform during the difficult economic conditions for our schools. The GEA has cost West Islip taxpayers over $15.6 million in the last four years, money that may have been used to save program and reduce taxes. In the 2013-2014 school year alone, West Islip schools lost $3.2 million to the GEA, or about $694 per student. In addition, the GEA cost taxpayers approximately $327 on the tax levy. Long Island enrolls nearly 17% of the state’s students, but receives just 12% of school aid. Yet, 18% of the statewide GEA reduction is absorbed by Long Island school districts. On October 20, 2014 Governor Cuomo declared: “We have our fiscal house in order. Credit ratings for the state are up. We actually have a surplus for state. We went from a 10 billion dollar deficit to a 4 billion dollar surplus.” Visit the district’s website, http://www.wi.k12.ny.us/legislative.htm to find steps you can take to ensure your voice is heard. Now is the time to act! OUTSTANDING MUSIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS Congratulations to the West Islip High School students who have been selected to participate in the 2014 New York State Council of Administrators Music Education (NYSCAME) All-County Festival. These accomplished musicians represent the finest students throughout Suffolk County. The performance was held at Half Hollow Hills East High School in November 2014. Pictured congratulating the students are Mr. William Willis, Orchestra Director; Mr. Eric Albinder, Director of Art & Music Education; Ms. Nicole Morace, Chorus Director; and Mr. James Krais, Band Director. Musicians include (bottom row): Alexander Moy, Orchestra; Tristan Cadiz, Orchestra; Christina Shaw, Mixed Chorus; Gregory Florio, Mixed Chorus; Edward Matin, Orchestra; Samuel Hudson, Band; Ryan Small, Band, Hannah Kim, Band and Robert Esposito, Symphony Orchestra (top row): Sheila Flahery, Women’s Choir; Alexandra Brewer, Mixed Chorus; Alyssa Frazier, Women’s Choir; Samantha McEvoy, Women’s Chorus; Sean Gordon, Mixed Chorus; Kevin Riegel, Mixed Chorus; Charles Hetterich, Band; Meghan Bevan, Band; Alexandra DelOrfano, Band; James Khoury, Band; Daniel Welborn, Band; and Eric Troiano, Band Congratulations to the West Islip High School students who were selected to perform in the 2014 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Festival. This prestigious event is comprised of the finest musicians from the entire state of New York. The performance will take place at the Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester in December 2014. Pictured congratulating the musicians on their phenomenal accomplishments are Mr. William Willis, Orchestra Director; Mr. Eric Albinder, Director of Art & Music Education; Ms. Nicole Morace, Chorus Director; and Mr. James Krais, Band Director. Pictured musicians include Alexander Moy, Symphony Orchestra; Tristan Cadiz, String Orchestra; Christina Shaw, Women's Chorus; Gregory Florio, Mixed Chorus; Edward Matin, Symphony Orchestra; Samuel Hudson, Symphonic Band; Ryan Small, Symphonic Band; Hannah Kim, Symphony Orchestra; and Robert Esposito, Symphony Orchestra WEST ISLIP HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING LIONS, KICKLINE and FLAG TEAM The West Islip High School Marching Lions, Flag Team and Kickline marched in this year’s Columbus Day Parade in New York City. The Marching Lions have participated in this annual tradition for the past 30 years and continues to place in the top five bands of the competition each year. Please join us at one or more of the upcoming musical performances. Check the district website www.wi.k12.ny.us for details. W As we continue our efforts to educate students regarding appropriate behavior and the treatment of others in the context of existing and new technologies, we ask that you assist us in this important endeavor by: elcome to est Islip Public Schools Brian Taylor has joined the district as the Director of Science and Technology and comes to us from the Commack School District where he served as the Administrative Dean of Students. Mr. Taylor received his Master’s degree from Stony Brook University. Michael Giacchetto has joined the district as the Assistant Principal at Udall Road Middle School from the PatchogueMedford School District where he was an elementary teacher. Mr. Giacchetto received his Master’s degree from Dowling College. SOCIAL West Islip Public Schools is proud to announce two new members to their administrative team. Reviewing the settings on your children’s phones and consider blocking apps not rated as age appropriate (restrictions are generally enabled under “settings”). MEDIA Checking your children’s phones for apps that may be misused, such as Instagram, Yik Yak, Snapchat, Kik, Whisper and Tinder, among others. Having regular discussions with your children about the respectful treatment of others and to expect respectful treatment in return. This issue impacts our students primarily outside of school when they are in the community. We are hopeful that by working together, we can better prepare students to address this important matter. WEST ISLIP SPIRIT Homecoming 2014 The West Islip community gathered on Saturday, October 25 to join in Homecoming festivities. The day began with a parade down Higbie Lane, and included school and community groups such as the West Islip High School Kickline, Marching Lions and Robotics, cheerleaders from the high school and middle schools, Little Conference cheerleaders and football players, players and coaches from the West Islip Soccer Club, Board of Education members, West Islip administrators, as well as the West Islip Fire Department and West Islip Chamber of Commerce. In addition, banners were displayed from the Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior classes. This year’s winner was the Junior Class. Pictured above is Mr. and Miss West Islip, Sarah Birkoff and Gregory Florio, as well as runners up, Samantha McEvoy and Dylan Hornik. The national anthem was performed by Alexandra Brewer and the Varsity Cheerleaders, Kickline and Flag Team performed at halftime. The Varsity Football team was victorious against Centereach, with a score of 35 to 0. Max McNicholas and Alex Barbera were recognized as the 2014 Homecoming Offensive and Defensive MVPs, respectively. Bernadette M. Burns Superintendent of Schools Board of Education Steven Gellar, President Scott Brady, Vice President Annmarie LaRosa Ronald Maginniss Kevin O’Connor Robert Ulrich Michael Zotto West Islip School District Freyer Administration Building 100 Sherman Avenue West Islip, NY 11795 *****ECRWSS** Residential Customer West Islip, New York 11795 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit #4 West Islip, NY 11795
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