District NewsletterFall 2014

Dear Community Members:There are many exciting things occurring in the District this year, and one of the most obvious is the work that is occurring on our school grounds. Our $5.91 million capital project approved by the voters in 2013 is taking shape as we received approval from the State Education Department to begin

the work. The major renovation of our Project Lead The Way engineering and technology classrooms began in the fall, and will be followed by the renovation of the pool locker rooms and mechanical work in the pool area in the spring. You will also notice site work that is happening at the Middle/High School including repaving of the asphalt. To help all of our community members safely walk to the tennis courts and baseball field, walkways have been constructed. You will also notice that cement pads have

Superintendent’s Message

Her first career was in business management. A second career as a stay-at-home mom to her three children helped her define that her next career would be in education. “I followed my children to school,” said Bridget Ashton. By the time her children were in elementary school, she

had made the decision that she would become a teacher. Ashton taught sixth grade in the Hilton Central School District. She was a third/fourth grade classroom teacher in the Rush-Henrietta School District for eight years and a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) in an elementary school working as an assistant to the building principal. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from SUNY Geneseo, a Master of Science in Reading and Literacy, and a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Educational Administration from the College at Brockport. At Wheatland-Chili she works at the Middle School/High School three days a week and at T. J. Connor two days a week.

been installed for the placement of movable bleachers and that another set of permanent bleachers was installed at the track/soccer stadium. Work on our capital project will continue during the summer of 2015, when the boys and girls lockers will be renovated, lights will be installed at the track/soccer stadium, and floors will be updated at T. J. Connor Elementary. We have created a page on the District website to keep you updated on our capital project progress. Please visit www.wheatland.k12.ny.us and click on the Quick Link on the left-hand side entitled, “Capital Project Construction,” for updated information.We thank you for your support of the capital project and look forward to seeing the results of this work over the upcoming year.

Deb LehSuperintendent

Bridget Ashton joins Wheatland-Chili as Assistant Principal

Her responsibilities include: • Supporting a safe and caring learning environment via

student management;• Supervision and observation of staff; and• Supporting building leaders with school operations and

staff development. Her husband, Kirk, is an elementary school principal and their three children are Paige, a SUNY Geneseo graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Spencer, a student at St. John Fisher pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree; and twin sister Melanie, pursuing a degree in Business through MCC and The College at Brockport."I could not be more pleased to join the dynamic leadership team of the Wheatland-Chili Central School District,” said Ashton. “I feel confident that my passion for learning and teaching will support students in this community and foster their academic and personal growth. I look forward to working with and getting to know all of you!"

We are introducing our elementary students to the wonders of a Science-Technology-Engineering-Math (STEM) approach to learning this year in kindergarten, second, and fourth grades through Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Launch. We plan to continue the STEM focus in 2015-2016 in grades one, three, and five, which will result in a K-12 STEM opportunity for our students.

Middle States AccreditationThe District has achieved Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation candidacy status. Accreditation is a process to ensure that we meet challenging, achievable standards of quality, and provides a mechanism for continuous school improvement. This fall, we engaged in a Middle States review of District processes and procedures in twelve standards areas, including philosophy/mission, governance/leadership, finances/facilities, and student services/educational programming. During this school year, we will engage in a self-study to identify areas for improvement and prepare for a candidacy visit for accreditation that will occur during the 2015-2016 school year.

K-12 STEM INITIATIVE To get ready for the implementation of this program, Mrs. Emelson went to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for a week this summer. She then presented what she learned to the kindergarten and second-grade teachers, along with Mrs. Sinsebox, Curriculum Director, and Mrs. LaCelle, STEM teacher. In addition to learning about the program, the teachers were able to try out some of the kindergarten projects of building an “egg tower” and designing a paintbrush. We are excited to start these lessons with our students.

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This school year, we are implementing the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program for our kindergarten through twelfth-grade students. Olweus will support the District’s efforts to reduce bullying issues among students, prevent the development of bullying problems, and to achieve better peer relations at school. Coordinating committees have been formed at T. J. Connor Elementary and the Middle/High School comprised of staff, students, parents, and community members. All staff members have been trained in the principles of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. Students and staff were surveyed to guide our implementation, and parents will be given an opportunity to also complete a survey on their perception of bullying in our schools.

Olweus Bullying Prevention Program

Opportunities to Participate on District Committees

The Board is seeking community involvement on the following committees:

Audit Committee. This committee oversees and reports to the Board of Education on the annual audit, and assists with understanding and implementing action plans as needed.

Board Policy Committee. This committee reviews Board of Education policies as needed, and makes recommendations to the Board for the update of existing and creation of new policies.

Communications Committee. This committee will provide and maintain systems to support open communications with all stakeholders.

Financial Committee. This committee focuses on providing a competitive educational program that is financially sustainable for the community.There are also opportunities to become involved with our Shared Decision Making Team (SDMT). By New York State Education Department regulations, all public school districts and BOCES organizations must develop and adopt a plan for the participation by teachers and parents with administrators in school-based planning and shared decision making. The purpose of the SDMT is to address topics which will lead to the improvement of the educational achievement of all students. During the 2014-2015 school year, SDMT will assist the District in work related to our Board priority of improved communications and customer service.Those interested in participating in any of the above opportunities should contact the District Clerk, Judy Cianciola, at 585.889.6247 for more information.

Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES Proposed Capital Project

On Tuesday, December 16, 2014, Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES will be seeking Wheatland-Chili voter approval for capital improvements to its main campus on Big Ridge Road in Spencerport. Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES serves students from Wheatland-Chili, as well as Brockport, Churchville-Chili, Gates Chili, Greece, Hilton, Holley, Kendall, and Spencerport. Residents from all school districts are eligible to vote. The Capital Project Vote will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2014, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in Room #2 at the Educational Services Center, 3599 Big Ridge Road, Spencerport, NY 14559.The proposed $29.2 million project is the first of its kind for Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES in its nearly 60-year history. The project work will improve building infrastructure, upgrade technology in classrooms to support quality instruction aligned to career preparation for students, accommodate student enrollment increases and continuing program expansion, increase capacity for professional development, improve security measures, reconfigure traffic flow on the BOCES campus and increase parking capacity.Please see the Frequently Asked Questions, Information Sheet, and Capital Project Presentation for further information at www.monroe2boces.org. If you have questions, please contact the superintendent’s office at 585.889.6246.

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In the coming weeks, you will hear about our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative that will be rolled out within the community. T. J. Connor Elementary School is partnering with the Scottsville and Chili Town Libraries to encourage all families with pre-school aged students to read 1,000 books to their children before kindergarten.

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The Girls' Varsity Volleyball team had a sectional game against Filmore. The girls won in four matches, and advanced to the sectional quarterfinals. Although the girls played well, they were unable to beat Hammondsport, ending their season. The girls finished with a record of 6-11. The team was also recognized as the Genesee Region team with the best sportsmanship, something that we all are very proud of. The girls also had a Genesee Region All-Star, Senior Breanna Walker.The Varsity Cross Country team completed its regular season at the Genesee Region/Livingston County Athletic Association (GR/LCAA) championship in LeRoy. For the girls, Madeline Vonglis took ninth overall in the division, with Emily Stryker eleventh. For the boys, Aaron Clark was in tenth place overall, and Alex Hogue was the top runner in the Genesee Region taking first. Hogue, Vonglis, and Clark were all named All-Stars as a result of their performances.The Girls' Varsity Soccer team was defeated by rival, Keshequa, at the Class C sectional semi-final game. The girls' regular season record was an impressive undefeated 16-0, with an overall record of 17-1. Although the girls are graduating two seniors, they are looking forward to another shot at the sectional championship next year by returning most of their roster. Genesee Region All-Stars for the girls this year are Hannah Callaghan, Abigael Callaghan, Taylor Clar, and Megan Nolan.

Fall SportsCome to an End

The Boys' Varsity Soccer team finished their season with a sectional loss to Bishop Kearney in the Class C2 semi-finals by a score of 2-0. The boys’ regular season record was 14-2, with an overall record of 16-3. The team was second place in Wheatland-Chili boys’ soccer history in the number of goals allowed in a season, thanks to a strong defense and goaltending. Genesee Region All-Stars were Ethan Domina, Nate Dawson, Joshua Hall, and Aaron Brown.The Modified Cross Country team finished up its season with the GR/LCAA Modified Invitational held at Wheatland-Chili. This event has become a great tradition for all of our competitive schools, giving them the opportunity to compete against each other at one time in one race. To make a more memorable experience, medals are awarded to the top ten competitors, music is playing during the event, and the concession stand is open. Thanks to Mr. Glass and Mrs. Jackett for putting this experience together.The Modified Girls' Soccer team concluded its season with a game under the lights. The girls loved the experience of a game going into overtime, having an announcer for the games, and even playing against one of their former coaches. Thanks to Mr. Peets for creating a memorable last game for the team.

The fall sports season concluded as our athletes look to move indoors to compete in Swimming and Basketball. Here are a few snapshots of our

teams’ successes.

Modified Cross Country team

Girls Volleyball team

Varsity Soccer team

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On September 17, the students and staff at T. J. Connor gathered together to celebrate Constitution Day. After learning about the U.S. Constitution, the students learned about the new T. J. Connor Constitution, or the “Wildcat Ways.” After the assembly, all the students and staff signed the “Wildcat Ways” Constitution in the front hallway. The “Wildcat Ways” are our new school rules that are being implemented as part of the Olweus Bully Prevention Program (OBPP). OBPP is a research-based program that is designed to create a safe learning environment for all students. OBPP focuses on decreasing bullying problems and preventing new bullying problems from occurring. Students will participate in class meetings to discuss the “Wildcat Ways,” develop strategies for getting along with the other students, understand bullying, and learn what to do if they see someone being bullied.Here is the T. J. Connor “Wildcat Ways” Constitution:

Veterans' Tax Exemption

T. J. Connor CelebratesConstitution Day

We, the students of T. J. Connor, in order to form a safer school, treat all students and teachers with respect, help those who need help, and share what we’ve learned to promote a better school; we will follow the Wildcat Ways:

1. We will treat others the way we want to be treated.

2. We will not bully others.

3. We will try to help students who are bullied.

4. We will try to include students who are left out.

5. If we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home.

We are inviting parents to sign the constitution too. Please stop by when you are at T. J. to sign the constitution.

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The Wheatland-Chili Board of Education is currently considering the possibility of offering a Veterans' Tax Exemption. The Board of Education will vote on the Veterans’ Exemption

at the regularly scheduled meeting to be held on Monday, February 9, 2015.

Q: What is the Veterans’ Tax Exemption?A: The Veterans’ Tax Exemption is a reduction in taxes for

veterans who served in a time of war. The amount of the exemption can vary based on whether the veteran served in a combat or non-combat zone and whether or not they have a service disability. There are no income requirements for the exemption.

Q: Why are school districts considering this now?

A: In December, 2013, Gov. Cuomo signed legislation that authorized school districts to offer this exemption. Previously, only towns, cities, and other municipalities could offer the exemption.

Q: Is the school district required to offer this exemption?

A: No. The Board of Education has the authority to decide whether or not to offer the exemption.

Q: How does the exemption work?A: The exemption lowers the tax bill for qualifying veterans

and increases the taxes collected from all other property owners. The total amount collected by the school district remains the same; the exemption shifts where the money comes from.

Frequently Asked Questions

Veterans' Tax Exemption

Q: What is the potential impact of the exemption?

A: If the Board chooses to offer the maximum allowable exemption, up to $120,000, it would represent approximately a 1.5% increase in the tax rate. However, the Board also has the option of offering a partial exemption, which would result in a tax rate increase of less than 1.5%. This increase in the tax rate would be in addition to any increase associated with the annual operating budget.

Q: How do I learn more about the veterans’ tax exemption?

A: You can visit the District’s website at www.wheatland.k12.ny.us under the Quick Links at the left under “Veterans’ Tax Exemption” or attend one of the community forums that will be held during December 2014 and January 2015. Please see the District website for dates and times of the upcoming forums.

Q: What feedback can I provide to this process?

A: The District is preparing a survey that will be mailed to all residents to gather your feedback. This survey will arrive in your home on or around Monday, January 5, 2015, with a return date of January 16, 2015. The survey will be available on the District website if you wish to complete an online version.

In addition, a Public Hearing of the Board of Education will also be held on Monday, January 12, 2015, to gather feedback from

our community on the Veterans’ Exemption.

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BOXHOLDERSCOTTSVILLE NY 14546

Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDHenrietta, N.Y.Permit No. 7

Wheatland-Chili Central School District13 Beckwith AvenueScottsville, NY 14546585.889.6247

Board of Education (2014-2015)Kim Snyder, PresidentCarol Davis, Vice PresidentShanna FraserJames MusshafenCourtney PanekTiffany PassmoreMichelle Rocha

SuperintendentDr. Deborah Leh

Follow Us on Facebook and

TwitterRemember to “like us” on Facebook and follow us on Twitter as another way to keep updated on District news. Click on the link to the District website for easy access to Facebook and Twitter at www.wheatland.k12.ny.us.

Keep Updated With The Electronic

NewsletterThe Electronic Newsletter is published twice each month and is a great way to keep updated on the wonderful activities of our students. Current and past editions of our newsletter can be found by accessing the District website at www.wheatland.k12.ny.us and selecting the Quick Links tab on the left-hand side of the page for the Electronic Newsletter. You can also register to receive the Electronic Newsletter on the District’s website.

This fall, seven members of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) attended the district meeting at Bryant and Stratton College in Henrietta with their advisor, Mrs. Hourihan. Students participated in workshops to learn more about the FBLA organization and how to prepare for competitive events. This helps students see how a larger organization functions and what decisions need to be made to be successful. It also makes connections between information learned in their business classes and an authentic professional environment. Additionally, students in our Business Law class participated in a tour of the Monroe County courthouse. They were able to observe arraignments, mental health court, and a criminal trial. It was a valuable learning experience for students to witness our legal system first hand. Later in the year, students will be involved in FBLA competitions to highlight their skills and learning over the course of their high school careers. Thanks to Mrs. Hourihan for leading this group and organizing such opportunities.

Join Us For Upcoming Musical Events:December 11: Middle School Winter Concert, High School Auditorium, 7 p.m.December 17: High School Winter Concert, High School Auditorium, 7 p.m.December 18: Grade 5 Winter Concert, T. J. Connor Elementary, 7 p.m.

FBLA on the Move

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