001Good evening everybody. For everybody who is here to honor our retirees, everybody that's here to honor some of our student athletes and hear how some of our programs are going tonight. We're also here to thank you for your time. Special thanks to the staff. Welcome to everybody that might be watching at home or might be watching this later when it's a more convenient time. I know the weather's nice outside. But we do have a packed agenda and so we will jump right in. Our first item on the agenda tonight is our public hearing for our SSO. >> Thank you. So annually we bring forward to the the board and the public a public hearing on our SSOs. That's school safety officers. Something that we are proud to have had over the last few years in
002the Watertown City School District and we are proposed to continue moving into next year because these retired officers, many of them are retired state troopers and or city detectives or police officers, we have to bring that to the public. We are renewing each of their contracts for a year. Currently if you slide down These are just some highlights of what our SSOs offer to the Watertown City School District. First and foremost they promote a safe, respectful, and orderly learning environment for students, staff, and visitors. They maintain a high visibility presence. That's something that we've worked hard over the last few years across our school buildings, grounds, and events. They monitor school activities and patrol campus to identify and respond to safety concerns. Um they serve on our district-wide safety uh planning committee meeting both at
003the building level and at the district level. Um so their expertise and insight is extremely critical into what we're doing. Um they coordinate and assist with emergency preparedness and drills and school safety procedures. Um they bring a good uh insight to that as we practice those um as required by New York State. They also serve as a liaison. Uh as I mentioned, they are either retired state troopers or city police. So they act as a liaison between the city and the state uh troopers uh to coordinate with our district and to strengthen our security. And they also provide safety training, education, and support for our students, staff, and family. Um the next slide, this is a very quick uh presentation. Uh those are things that they have been doing and will continue to do. Um
004we have the privilege uh this year adding someone new, so you'll see a face up there that in the community you recognize um who's retiring with the city police uh department after decades of service, Officer Shane Ryan. Um so he will be joining the Watertown City School District um um August 1st or July 1st? >> August 1st. So we're excited about that. Um a a current person, Officer Paul Mendez, is retiring with the state troopers. He is going to retire with us and serve as a substitute, which is something that's completely new. We have not offered that in the past. Um so we do have a contract in front of the board tonight to approve that. Um so that if an SSO is absent, we have coverage uh for those spaces. So we feel like
005that offers us even more support for safety uh of our students and our staff. So we're excited about that. That concludes uh our presentation. So this is open. It is a public hearing. Um we do present it to the public because our safety officers do carry a firearm. Uh they do do go through annual training uh for use of the firearm. and they also attending annual training uh uh, with an SSO. It used to be in Milton, New York. They're moving in closer to Rochester, uh, but they are required to attend an annual training as well. So, any questions or comments? Uh, the board will be acting on approving them. It was important that we put this on the board agenda tonight, uh, because they will begin summer school beginning in July, so the timing
006was important and uh, we also needed them authorized before they attend their training um, and they're in Rochester. That concludes my comments. Any questions from the public or from the board? Okay. Thank you very much. That concludes the hearing portion. Okay. So, we return to open session. Michelle, do we have any agenda changes for this evening? >> Yes, today I did add a executive session at the end of the meeting tonight. Um, in addition to that, the personnel report has changed since I posted it on Friday, so you do have the fresh copy in front of you with the highlighted changes. >> Thank you. And our student voice, our director of PE, health, and athletics, Greg Russo. Um, you're up. All right. >> Tonight we're going to go over with our wellness coach some of
007the um, things that we have available to our student athletes. In addition, I'm going to call up some of the student athletes. They're going to get an opportunity to talk a little bit about their season and some of the um, accomplishments that they've had. All right. We have had a fantastic season as an athletic department. We've had multiple all-stars. We've had teams that have gone to the section championships. We've had state qualifiers. We've had opportunities to watch kids compete and set records all year long. And many of the students that are here have done those things, so let's give them a big round of applause. >> I did not know that I was speaking today, so I'm going to keep it short and sweet. I'm Zoey Smith, I'm the wellness coach here. I actually teach
008social studies in the high school during the day. So, social studies teacher by day, wellness coach by night. That's my entire life. Um I just started this position, so this is a fairly new spot. I'm actually new to the Watertown district. I taught at Carthage for a couple of years and said join the good guys. I was here a lot of the time, so I appreciate you all taking me on. I've loved being in the high school. I had a very emotional day today. It was my last day with my kids. I'm leaving next week. But I'm very, very happy and blessed to be here. So, wellness coach. Some background information. I had some boring stuff up there about like who I am. I went to South Jefferson, from the area originally. If you could
009guess by my height, I played basketball. Everybody knows that, but I was a basketball player in college. Fun fact about me, I have five brothers. No sisters. So, I'm a very tough gal, I like to say. So, as a wellness coach, I actually have a nice little spot on the website. If you click on athletic wellness coach, you'll get my information. Students can actually go in and fill out a form. They can put their name, email, maybe why they want to meet with me, maybe some issues that they want to talk about. It can be very short and sweet, and then that comes directly to me, and then I can reach out to the student one-on-one to create a time that maybe works best for them. I've noticed this year as it has progressed that
010I have a lot of kids who like to meet with me during the day, which is usually during my lunch or my paying period, which I'm not busy at all during the day, so that's fine. I have no problem with that. I actually had a lunch group that has been meeting with me every day since December, and we talk normally it seems to be about relationship problems, which I've become very well versed in my relationships this past year. Um, but after school, I have hours from 3:00 to 5:00, Monday through Friday. I'm actually right next to the athletic office. It is a classroom during the day, but I kind of have a little shop built up in there. Um, and like I said, in my classroom, kids are welcome to meet with me during the
011day, so that's all fun. The focus here is student wellness. As athletes and students who participate participate in extracurricular activities, they take on a lot. I was somebody who was a three sport athlete. I was on the honor roll. I was in the dance company. I just needed a musical in plays in school. I know how much stress that students take on to themselves. A lot of times, they just need a trusted adult they can talk to that's not mom, that's not dad, maybe not their coach. It's just somebody else that they can speak to. So, what I've done this year through this program is I'm trying to create good mental health throughout all the student body, and particularly our athletes, because I like I said, speaking from experience, I know how much stress people
012put on themselves. So, this has been an evolving thing. I kind of stepped into this role not really knowing what this is going to look like. And there's going to be some growing pains, I think, as we continue through this, but I'm on the website, so step one. Big victory there. Um, next, I try to make myself available to students. I go to practices. I introduce myself to the coaches. I let them know that they can come and speak to me. Coaches can use me as a resource if they ever feel they think they need somebody to talk to, or they're not really getting anywhere with them, maybe they're struggling with grades. It could be anything. I'm just another trusted adult for students to talk to. And a lot of times, the kids just need
013to get it out. You wouldn't believe the amount of stuff that we carry on our shoulders, and until we actually release it, it's just going to push them down and down and down. So, that's kind of what this role is. There's a little bit more of an overview of what it's doing. Like I said, this is going to continue to evolve and grow. But, on the slides that I have prepared here, if you want to scroll just on the wise, mental health has been a big problem. I actually think that this generation of kids, testament to you guys, when I was in school, nobody talked about mental health. It was not a thing. It was one of those like hush-hush, like everybody was secretly struggling, but nobody was really talking about it. And I think
014this generation does a really good job of saying, "Hey, I need help. I need somebody to talk to. I need resources." And a lot of times I'm somebody who can just give them the connections that they need, whether it's maybe they need to talk to somebody in our counseling department at high school or middle school, cuz I do work with cases well. Um I've helped kids connect with their parents so they can actually get counseling outside of school as well, which has been fantastic. I really am just a resource for our student body. Um some questions that I get asked, if you could go up one more. Not one. You can skip that one. The dos and don'ts, because a lot of people I think were nervous when I moved into this position, especially coming
015from like the coaches' perspective. I'm not there to be that guy. Not there to go into practices and be like, "Uh I'm going to write notes about this coach. I don't really like what they're doing this." I'm here for students. I'm not here for coaches. I'm not a spy. I'm not going undercover. I'm not trying to get anybody in any trouble. What I'm there is to relieve some anxiety for our students. I go to practices. I watch how they interact with each other. I also just let them see my face, because a lot of kids don't even know who I am. I'm new to the district. I don't teach history. If you don't care about history, you don't know who I am. So, I go in. I create plans with them. This year, with my
016spring sports especially, I met and we talked about goals for the season. We talked about things that we might be causing some stress right out of the gate. I tried to meet with all the teams at the very beginning of the season. And it was really cool to hear the goals that these kids wanted to achieve. And then watch a lot of them achieve them, especially the baseball team. They had a lot of goals about just winning the sectional game. And it was so cool to see them like reach that goal home come see me during the day and be like, "We did it." I'm like, "I know. I know." I saw Um so really I just want everybody to know this position is not like we're not bashing people. They come and talk to
017me like I said and I know some of the problems is like we're friends and girlfriends. Which whatever. I just listen and I'm like, "It sounds tough. I don't remember being 17." But it's just just there to help kids out because I love being a freshman teacher but I also love being able to talk to kids outside of teaching and not history even though it is the best. It is nice to just get to know these kids in a different capacity. So that's kind of an overview of what the position is. It's going to continue to evolve. Like I said, I just stepped into it and I would love to expand upon this, maybe do some workshops for like mental health for our athletes. I'm really excited to see where this is going to go
018and I appreciate everybody's patience as I kind of figure it out and I think we have a really strong department here athletic-wise at Watertown and it's only going to get better. So thanks guys for listening. >> from the student athletes who are going to be going to college. And this is very much part of the college athlete experience, the mental health part of it. Often times that they have to take cognitive tests, they have to go to counseling just to make sure that they're all aligned physically, emotionally, and that they're ready to compete. So as we continue to move forward, we're going to keep introducing new techniques for the kids to cope with not only everyday stress but also their athletic stress as well. How they can turn those things into positives and learn how
019to manage things as they go along uh their journey in athletics. Okay. Who? >> I'm assistant coach and I'm going to the bottom of the steps for lacrosse. >> I'm Julie Abby. I'm going to play Division 1 lacrosse at Binghamton University. >> I not only prepare myself as an athlete in that aspect, but they also focus on our academics and getting us to where we need to be in that aspect of the game. Um, it also prepares me to work with other girls and not only prepare myself as an individual, but prepare myself to be part of a team. >> Um, they also go above and beyond to show up for me academically and are always pushing me and make sure that they know that they believe in me. >> Um, they always push me
020to a higher level and push me to succeed. Um, they really go above >> I think he was one of the most valuable players in the area with four. He was named the ball also won the Frontier League championship. That was a big big big event for our community and for the kids. He really started to peak at at the right time. Some of his teammates, Eric Washburn, holds the school record for three-point baskets made in a season with 46. And Shawn Robinson holds the school field goal percentage record in a season at 68%. So, we wish him luck at SUNY Geneseo, and you'll always have a support system here. So, anytime you need to reach out, we'll always be here for you. All right, let's go. >> That's fine. >> I feel really lucky
021because um being part of a team, it's not just swimming, it's family and friendship that helps us succeed. It's not just hard work, it's not just practices, it's friendship and connection and chemistry that helps us. >> How about some of your accomplishments this spring? >> Um coming off of a knee injury, I set the bar really low for myself. Um I just wanted to get back in the pool, so being able to make sectional the sectional cut time to go to sectionals in Syracuse this year was one of my biggest goals. Thankfully, I was able to succeed to succeed that this year with me. >> What what other awards did you win this year? >> Um Um given the opportunity to receive the Bravo Award um through the Italian American Club of Northern New York
022City Foundation. So, that was cool. >> Um I'm going to keep this I'm also part of the girls varsity team and this year I was able to qualify again for state. >> I think I'm going to stop right there. The one of the proudest moments that we had a flag football team somehow all the members of the graduating class >> Um I'm going to keep this I'm also part of the girls varsity team and this year I was able to qualify again for state. I would also like to thank my mom and dad for always supporting me. Of course I got that well. What I trust most with the smaller is like someone has changed. Um, in the first half there, um, someone made their first touchdown or point by. It's what really got us
023together as a to us as a team. We got to be Thank you so We were um, we were there. And it was awesome. Um, getting the experience of the sport and coming together with the girls um with all the different types of talents coming from all different types of sports and it's was really awesome to be a part of this and >> and being in that same room. That's a good time to see you all and you're going to be part of that. And then all the family members here at Florida Gulf Coast Lacrosse. Thank you so much for all your contributions this year. Lacrosse this year. Lacrosse. >> How long have you been designing one ball? After we were done designing for us. Um, yeah. Um, you know, all that. Uh, last game
024of our season, we went into double overtime with the general Brown. Um, and we beat them twice this season, which probably gave us confidence beating the general Brown, so one of the big confidence. >> Well, I'd like to say that we had a >> really young team going into the season, and we weren't sure how we were going to do. And in the end, you know, we got together and worked really hard to be able to do well. >> Um, yeah, I think going into the season, I obviously would say we were a really young team. Um, I think a lot of really good things came out of this season, which helped me get better as a team. >> What guys What much things What I got to say is through the sectional championships, we
025won the whole tournament. That got the last two mental blocks out of me. Probably And you guys did so well after that. >> Yeah, so my name is Bryce Holladay and I'm accompanied by Eddie Hayden. We're both captains of the varsity baseball team and like he said starting out we were always inside. The weather we couldn't get outside. Our field was always awful and the start of our season was really rocky but instead of crumbling and breaking apart as a team we decided to lift each other up and really come together towards the end and that helped us make it to the sectional championship. We definitely want to get back to the sectional championship, but this time we're going to we're going to do it >> Earlier in the season, the group of guys we
026had were actually committed to being better. Not only as baseball players, but also also as young adults. So, I think that really drove our spirits going into sectionals, and that gave us more momentum all to come back wins as the underdog play ball proceeds and that Unfortunately, we lost in the sectional championship. But, as many of you may not know already, uh West Tennessee, the team we played, uh just won the state championship in our class. And to even say that we were right there playing with them and almost won is a great accomplishment in my opinion, I think. And we thank you all for your support, and we hope you guys support us again next year, or we will next year, where we will. >> Over here in our district in five innings, where
027we won that year our first regional championship. >> I do have a little volunteer hours here and there, okay. And then you can do that special orders before someone as well. >> I do. I would have already done the draft work for that. >> I'm a faster I don't know at all. I'm a resource of my floral classes. Um she's only a volunteer, but she helps either every day or less. I don't know. >> You guys have a lot of classes. >> I'm not a fan of school sports classes. >> I am committed for project lead. >> I'm a volunteer. >> I have a lot of work from our project we have my girl volunteer. So you You go ahead. >> I am committed there. >> I'm committed there. >> I am there early Saturday
028mornings. >> Yes. >> Plus sometimes even after work Sunday nights. So I can >> I'm a volunteer. >> Thanks a lot. As a team as a whole we're very successful. We're on our team last two years ago was our first year. So it was hard for us to get some people to get here but this year we have like 26 people on our team. And as a team we sent two kids to sectionals and as a team at team sectionals we did very well placing I think fifth and individually I was one of the top finishers in the Frontier League tournament and the Frontier League as a whole. I had it like about 193 around there. >> I plan on I plan to go to college to play golf. It's also one of my main
029passions. I spend hours every day at the golf course trying to trying to get better. I also work there, so it's >> [laughter] >> I can go through there are so many more that we're proud of that we were able to accomplish this year. We could have a long laundry list that could go on for a few hours. But these kids right here, they are the epitome of what student athletes are. They go to school every day, they have the grades, they're great role models, and they really carry themselves up and beyond. And they make everybody proud that's around them. Guys, if you could just stand up and take a bow for that. >> We love supporting your passions. Uh and it makes us very proud to see you here with all the great accomplishments
030that Bartlesville High School has been able to do this year. We kind of know what's going on, but it takes a little bit of time. Uh the board likes to just give you a little token of our appreciation. If you take a picture with us anytime, you'll see it on the sunny day. You guys can hear us talking about the board of education. So, that is most society today. Uh but thank you for your time tonight. Uh some of our members have this video luck to show you. And thanks again so much for for sharing all these wonderful things with You know, I'm kind of disappointed Thank you. Thank you so much. >> All right, so thank you to our our wonderful athletes and uh uh the amazing seasons they've had. Um we are at
031the first public comment section of our evening. This is for agenda-related items. In accordance with board policy 206, all the public portion of Board of Education meetings is designed to give members of the public an opportunity to address the board relating to school district operations. The board cannot permit in public session discussions involving individual district personnel or students. Persons wishing to discuss matters involving personnel or students should present their comments to the superintendent or school board and Mrs. Salters. All speakers should conduct themselves in a civil manner. Obscene language, libelous statements, and threats of violence cannot be tolerated. It is not the practice of the board to respond during the meeting to questions posed or comments made by speakers. Therefore, the board will certainly take any questions or comments made under advisement, but will not
032necessarily be responding to any questions at this time. As always, the board welcomes written comments, and all board members and the superintendent can be reached via regular mail or email. There's a 3-minute time limit. When you hear the end of the buzzer, please do not be alarmed and conclude your thought. Uh and your time will be up. Um are there any comments for agenda-related items this evening? >> I'm not sure where mine fall. It's somewhere on the agenda, I believe. Well, my name is Rebecca Sullivan and I'm deeply honored to be a part of this district. Today, I stand before you with a heart full of memories and a commitment to the future of our schools. For 28 years, I have dedicated my life to teaching physical education in this district, the last 14 at
033Ohio Elementary. This school is just not a place to work. It is a community that I have come to cherish every day. I remember the day that I was transferred from the high school 14 years ago to come to Ohio Elementary. A dear friend of mine, who was the then new principal, Mark Taylor, he encouraged me to embrace that change. He believed that I would find joy again in teaching the children of my former students that I had at the high school. He wasn't wrong and I don't like telling you he's right. Teaching these children is a privilege. I share these stories of their parents and in return, I receive heartfelt gratitude from those very same parents I had at the high school who say, "I'm glad my child has you, Coach Sullivan." These are
034the moments that remind me of the impact I have on my building. Both high school and elementary, mainly elementary. I would like to that impact that I have on students and the legacy that I hope to leave behind. As I approach my final three years of my career, I urge you to consider the long-term effects of these decisions being made in our district. The easiest path is not always the hardest, or excuse me, the easiest Let me back up. It is not always the best. Let us work together to ensure that our schools continue to be places of love, growth, and the opportunity for generations to come. Thank you. >> Evening. I'm here today to speak on behalf of the physical education teacher at elementary school within your district. Since joining the elementary school in
0352012, they have made a lasting and positive impact on the school community. Each morning, students greet them with smiles and enthusiasm. Through their dedication, kindness, and commitment to students, they have built strong relationships that make every child feel valued and supported. As a substitute teacher within the district, I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the influence that they have had on their students. They look forward to attending physical education classes and feel comfortable and confident in her presence because of the connections they have developed with them over the years. Their positive Their positive influence extends beyond the element the elementary school that she works at. When I substitute at other schools, former students often approach me and tell me, "Please tell her I said hi." Many of these students have moved on to other
036schools, yet they still remember and miss having PE with them each day. That kind of lasting impact speaks volume about the relationships they have built and the difference they have made in their lives. Some students who are graduating this year just came to the building today and took pictures with this teacher because of the positive lasting impact that they had on them. They were even invited to graduation parties. Students do not do that if the teacher did not have a positive impact on them. They have also played a significant role in creating a positive and engaging school culture at the elementary school through the many events and activities they organize each year. One example is the fun run where they invite parents and guardians to participate alongside their children during physical education. This not only
037promotes physical fitness but also strengthens the connection between families and the school community. Another long-standing tradition is Fun Day, which they have coordinated coordinated since 2012. Through careful planning and organization, they provide students with a variety of enjoyable and memorial memorial enjoyable and fun activities that they look forward to year after year. These experiences help foster school spirit, build positive memories, and create a sense of community among students and staff. Considering that they have many years of dedicated service at this elementary school in the relatively short time remaining in their career with the district, it does not seem practical to reassign them to the high school at this point. Their experience, established relationships, and familiarity with the school community are valuable assets that will continue to benefit the school. I respectfully encourage you to carefully
038reconsider this decision and question the proposed move. They have dedicated more than over a decade at this elementary school where they have built strong relationships with students, families, and staff. For many students, for many students, this school has really come to know and trust them in their presence has become an important part of their school experience. Moving on to a different school, moving on from the school they have proudly called home since 2012, would have a significant impact on the students who look forward to seeing them each day and who have benefited from their dedication, leadership, and commitment to their success. Thank you. >> My name is Abigail Boland. I'm not here today for you tonight not just as a member of the community but as a proud daughter of one of your physical education
039teachers. My mom has dedicated 28 years of her life to this district spending the last 14 of those beautiful years to an elementary school. She is without a question one of the most loyal, hard working Sorry. One of the most loyal, hard working people I've ever met and I'm incredibly proud to call her my mom. Your district operates under the powerful slogan, "Our children our future." If we truly believe those words, then we must protect our educators who actively build that future every single day. When a teacher stays in one building for 15 years, they stop becoming just an employee, they become family. My mom found her family and her people at this elementary building. And at the same heart, they became my own nuclear family. Every single morning she greets your students with a
040joy that sets the tone for their entire day. She is the reason your community has donated countless dollars to the Jump Rope for Heart Foundation and teaches your little ones how to care for others. She's more than a PE teacher, she's the magic behind the K through 4 fun days and the pillar of the fourth grade field days, the milestone experience your oldest students look forward to every year. She doesn't just teach, she creates the core childhood memories that these kids will talk about when they are grown up. To this elementary building, she resembles stability, safety, and joy. That is why forcing an educator who has poured her soul into one building to pack up her gym feels so wrong. Moving her after 14 years of excellence doesn't seem like success. It feels like a
041punishment for doing an incredible job. It completely tears down the foundation of trust, relationships, and routine she has built with your district family. How can we expect a teacher to do her job when the very part of the program, that deep community connection, is stripped away? This dedicated educator has only 3 years left until her retirement. After 28 years of unwavering loyalty to this district's to these district's children, she has earned the right to cross the finish line with dignity, surrounded by her coworkers who respect her and her students who adore her. I am an educator in this district, which I once was. My mom is frequently asked at my for why. For 15 years, her why has been the student, the families, and the community at this elementary building. That is her purpose. You,
042as the Board of Education, have the final say on this move. You hold the pen that will sign or keep her here or sign her away. During your upcoming deliberation, I am begging this board to ask the administration the hard question. Ask them the why. Ask them what could have possibly be gained by breaking the hearts of the students at this elementary just to fill a spot. Thank you. I hope Can I Okay. If you say you're for the teachers like you do, your actions speak louder than words. Thank you, and I hope you have a great evening. >> Thanks. Anyone else to speak for agenda related items? >> Uh we're going to pause board and staff reports. I would like to introduce our newest board member that will be joining us July 7th, Mr.
043Shawn Griffin. All right, board and staff reports. Policy committee report this evening from our chair. >> Okay. We made a curriculum uh policy. Uh we had some questions about what was going in the policy. So, I got Tina who's going to get us some answers, hopefully. So, we'll leave that with you. And uh we now have a more user-friendly handbook. Um that's good. That's very nice. And there's a section in there about AP. There it is. >> We're trying to make one that was a little bit more user-friendly for staff and for students and parents. So, we think it's It still remains a board policy, but we did look. >> Um so, we will get um feedback and then we will have a public hearing at the July 7th. So, that concludes it. >> Okay,
044good. >> Any questions for Tina? Thank you, Tina. Superintendent of Schools report back to our street. Uh just a huge round of applause to our retirees and I want to round of applause they did not first comment brought online. So, uh we appreciate that and uh to our student athletes and our student performers tonight, it's amazing as we were listening to our student athletes tonight, it was amazing to see that there are many students that are both musically talented, artistically talented, but also play sports. So, it's nice to see that our students are breaking that barrier and Shelley just did it. I don't know if she's still here, she may have left. Uh she did an amazing job and um Um, Tina Lane and I facilitate our students' advisory group. Um, we had 36 students
045serve this year and our flag football was their vision, our indoor track was their vision, bowling was their vision, and also Zoe's position was their vision. It was something that they thought we needed to make sure that we're growing well-rounded children, that they have the supports that they need. Um, so just kudos to Zoe for taking that risk um, and stepping into something new and being vulnerable and allowing to grow at first students. Uh, the next thing I want to mention is Jason Harrington. Uh, Jason is not here this evening as you can see. Uh, tonight is his last official uh, board meeting uh, in this round of his board leadership. Um, he was presented with the JSLBA uh, board. He was presented with a certificate that I will hand deliver to him uh, for
046his seven years of dedicated service to the Watertown City School District. So, a round of applause to him and to the committee. The thing I want to uh, mention is something that was organized uh, by Tina's leadership but also the vision of a group of six hard-working individuals. Um, we started it its first year a few years back and we called it our vape cessation committee and we really wanted to help educate our community and our students. Um, and this year they decided to change the name and the venue. And so, this year was titled On Track to Finish Strong. It was such a powerful event. We had over 1,200 people on that turf. So, an exciting event. Just kudos to those six people uh, that organized it but also the many staff members that
047worked behind the scene up until 8:30, 9:00 and beyond that evening to make that happen. We are also considering because of the success of the On Track to Finish Strong to say something along the lines of On Track to Start or Begin Strong and so, we're looking at our Welcome Back Watertown also being on the turf. More information to come on that as that is also expanding into this upcoming school year. Uh the next announcement that I would like to say is uh congratulations to all of our Watertown High School students that had the uh privilege of earning awards last week at the reception. So just kudos to our high school uh students for that. Direct Subs stepped up to the plate after Balance Nutrition. Um we have over 150 families in the Watertown City
048School District. We saw a 50% increase or 100% increase, excuse me, of students requiring backpacks on Fridays to go home to bring to their families. Direct Subs decided to step up like other business partners have and as a result of this past Saturday, they donated $680 to the Watertown City School District's backpack program. So kudos to Direct Subs and our business partners for uh recognizing the need and supporting our students and their families. Uh last Friday, we had the opportunity to attend our special education high school graduation. What an awesome experience. The students get up and they get to speak for their classmates. Um they also recognized Mrs. Babcock's retirement. Um just a wonderful opportunity. Uh if you leave there with I was able to bring Michelle with me because she was already crying and
049she has a senior of her own this year. Um we decided to leave her and the tissues behind. But just kudos to all of those students who graduated and all of the supports that worked with them and the parents who trusted the Watertown City School District to educate our most vulnerable students and to now lift them up to our community. So thank you to them. Um grad walks were today. If you had the opportunity and the privilege to walk, um each year we hear feedback from the grad walks. Um we had our students parade through each of the elementary schools today. And then something we changed was that all uh students get to grade through Wiley Intermediate School. Uh in case we're just excited for them and all of the hard work, and we're looking
050forward to celebrating them next Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. And that concludes >> Michelle Adams for consent agenda. >> Please all the consent agenda items A through J are hereby approved. >> Motion, please. >> Melanie and Sarah. >> Tina, discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Items for board action. A, approval of reserve account adjustments. >> Please all the uh the adjustments to the district's reserve accounts as presented to the board are hereby approved. >> Motion. >> I got Bill and I got Melanie. >> Discussion. >> Just a reminder for the board. I mentioned this in the last board meeting. There was with our certiorari reserves account, we needed to have over 600,000 in that. Um those are people that are contesting their assessed values of their properties within the Watertown City School
051District. So, we had to up that in insurance reserve. We keep those monies in there potentially for up to 3 years, and then those monies uh revert back. Um in addition to that, with our $15 million capital reserve that our community vote voted to support last year's school district budget, uh we are requesting to move $1 million into that account. So, when we get to that point to start that project beyond this one, that there are monies in there to have minimal impact towards taxpayers. >> Any other questions or discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh item B, approval of Questar III BOCES. >> Please all the minutes, asset inventory audit, food service cash receipts audit, and annual risk assessment of the school district that prepared by the firm of Crocker and
052for the 2027 and the corrective action plans associated therewith is hereby accepted and approved. >> Motion, please. Oh, all in favor. Any opposed? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carried. Item C, approval of BOCES cooperative purchasing agreement. >> Resolved that the Watertown City School District hereby approves the participation in the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES cooperative purchasing programs in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the cooperative purchasing agreement for the 2026-2027 school year. >> Motion, please. All in favor. Any opposed? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carried. D, approval of King and King Architects contract. >> Resolved that the Board of Education of the Watertown City School District has determined it is in the best interest of the school district to retain King and King Architects LLP to provide architectural, engineering, and project management
053services in connection with the 2026-2027 capital outlay project. And whereas the water school district's legal counsel and King and King have jointly prepared a contract for such services which the superintendent recommends for approval. Now, therefore, be it resolved as follows. Number one, the Board of Education approves the retention of King and King to provide services in connection with the project in accordance with the terms and fees set forth in the contract. Number two, the Board President and or the superintendent is authorized to execute the contract on behalf of the school district and take all actions necessary to proceed thereunder. And number three, this resolution shall take effect immediately. >> Motion, please. >> Melendez. >> Tighe. Discussion. >> Just a reminder, this contract was approved or reviewed by the board's legal firm for context and just
054to state for the record, it is regarding the capital outlay project which was approved by our voters to focus on the masonry work at Watertown High School. The chimney stack over the pool will be the focus, but we also have a couple of other things that we want to switch to from side to side alternates if there is additional money in that $100,000 table. >> All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item B, approval of King and King Architects contract. >> Whereas the Board of Education of the Watertown City School District has determined it is in the best interest of the school district to retain King and King Architects LLP to provide architectural and engineering services in connection with its FEMA 406 grant projects. And whereas the school district's legal counsel and King and
055King have jointly procured a contract for such services which the superintendent recommends for approval. Now therefore be resolved as follows. Number one, the Board of Education approves the retention of King and King to provide services in connection with the project in accordance with the terms of the RFP 71 in the contract. Number two, the Board President or Superintendent is authorized to execute the contract on behalf of the school district and take all actions necessary to proceed proceed there under. Number three, this resolution shall take effect immediately. >> Motion, please. >> Move. >> I'll second the motion. >> Vote. >> Any discussion? >> Just a reminder for the board, this is regarding our FEMA contract as Michelle said. This was also reviewed by legal counsel. This is to allow coverage for the 14 plus million that
056we are expecting from FEMA as a result of the flood almost 2 years ago unfortunately. Um, we did get word today that FEMA did approve our extension. The project was supposed to be completed by August this upcoming August, but nothing has been approved to do the work. So, we applied for an extension a while back with Reese's help and that was approved today. So, we're looking forward to that. But, this formalizes our relationship with King and King regarding the FEMA project. >> Any other discussion? >> What's the timeframe for completion? >> Uh, we have not started yet. So, what we're doing is we're in the next one is going to actually speak to that. But, this one what we're hoping to do is move forward with the 110. Some of the things like sidewalk on
057this main campus when you look at case, you look at the Watertown High School, we're looking at putting four under large water storage tanks to hold the water to pump out. You know, what we're looking at the city's water lines and some of them on flower panic. We're looking at water lines that are built in the 1800s. Um, and so we need to find a way as a district to prevent the Watertown schools from flooding and a part of that is going to be the underwater storage. So, we've got the plans, they're all drafted up. We're just waiting on really the green light. So, we're going to kind of borrow something from the 110 and pay for the FEMA and and back and forth in order to maximize and leverage that 14.1 million dollars. So,
058it hasn't been officially approved yet, but we don't have nothing, but it is with HP as well. >> Any other discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item 11, approval of the amendments to the 2026 capital improvement projects contract. >> Whereas the Board of Education of the Watertown City School District previously approved a contract with King and King Architects LLP dated April 30th, 2025 for architect services in connection with its 2025 capital improvement project, and whereas the Board of Education has determined that it is in the best interest of the school district to expand the scope of the services under the contract related to the FEMA Coral War Grant and the 2024 flood uh damage as set forth in Amendment Number One, which the superintendent recommends for approval. Now, therefore, be it resolved
059as follows: The Board of Education approves Amendment Number One to the contract with King and King expanding services and adjusting compensation in accordance with the terms as set forth therein. With all other contract terms remaining in full force and effect, be it resolved the Board President or Superintendent is authorized to execute Amendment Number One on behalf of the school district and take all actions necessary to proceed thereunder. Be it resolved this resolution shall take effect immediately. >> Motion to approve this. >> I'll second >> Is there any discussion? >> So, this ties into the last one that I mentioned. So, in order for them to work with the FEMA project, there were things that were built into the 110. Those things have been moved over to FEMA and other alternative projects that were on the
060um sinking plans were added. So, that just gives that flexibility to move those project items over. >> Any notes to add? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> How do you vote on this item? >> Motion carries. >> Uh item G, approval of SSO agreements. >> At the regular meeting of the Board of Education of the Waterbury School District held on June 16th, 2026, whereas the Board of Education has reviewed proposed employment agreements with Matthew Flynn, Paul Mendes, Nancy Foster, Shane Ryan, and Jason Palomba for the provision of school school security services and school safety officers and has held a public hearing as required by law and whereas pursuant to New York Penal Law section 265.01A, individuals are generally prohibited from possessing or carrying firearms on school district property absent written authorization and the duties
061of school safety officers necessitate such authorization. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Education approves the school safety officer employment agreements and authorizes the superintendent of schools to take all necessary actions and execute any necessary documents on behalf of the board and be it further resolved that the Board of Education authorizes Matthew Flynn, Paul Mendez, Lindsay Foster, Shane Ryan, and Jason Bonanno to possess [snorts] and carry a firearm in school district property while working in their capacity as school safety officers for the duration of their employment in that role subject to revocation by the board at any time without cause and be it further resolved that this uh resolution shall take effect immediately. >> Take a motion to accept. All in favor, say "Aye." All opposed, say I have a motion. Discussion. One
062of the new things to add, as I mentioned during the public hearing, is this will be our first year next year, 2026-2027 school year, where we have a substitute SSO. So, this contract is the only one that looks different. I'll second that. Two. Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item eight, approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> Whereas on February 25th, 2026, the Board of Education issued a request for proposals for a universal pre-K program services pursuant to commission regulation 125-1.6 and whereas following evaluation of proposals received, the Superintendent of Schools recommends award of the contract to Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center. Part of Jacobson, St. Louis. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Education approves award of the contract to the Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center. Approves the
063proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes Superintendent of Schools to execute the agreement and take all necessary take all the steps necessary to carry out its terms. Motion, please. >> Vote. Second. Melanie, discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? The motion carries. Item I, approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> All right, it's actually February 25th, 2026. The Waterbury School District has requested proposals for the universal pre-K program services pursuant to Commissioner's regulations. And whereas, following the evaluation proposals received, the Superintendent of Schools recommends award of the contract to Community Action Training Council. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Education approves award of the contract to CA TC. Approves the proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes the Superintendent of Schools to execute the agreement and take
064all the steps necessary Motion, please. >> Vote. Got Melanie and Cecilia. Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item J, approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> All right, it's actually February 25th, 2026. The Waterbury School District has requested and advised for proposals for the universal pre-K program of services and services pursuant to the regulations and whereas following evaluation of proposals received, the superintendent of schools recommends award of the contract to First Step Daycare, Inc. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Education approves um use of the award of the contract to First Step Daycare, Inc. and use the use the proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the agreement and take all steps necessary and use the contract terms. >> Take
065a motion to approve. >> So >> I'll second. >> Right. No discussion? All those in favor? All right. Any opposed? Motion carries. Item K, approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> Whereas on February 25th, our Albany City School District issued a request for proposals for the universal pre-K program services pursuant to the regulations regulations and whereas the following evaluation of proposals received, the um superintendent of schools recommends award of the contract to Little Sprouts Child Care Center. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Education approves award of the contract to uh Little Sprouts Child Care Center uh use of the proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the agreement and take all steps necessary and use the contract terms. >> Motion to approve the
066award. >> I'll second. >> Any discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item L, approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> Whereas on February 25th, the Albany City School District issued a request for proposals for the universal pre-K program services pursuant to the regulations and whereas following evaluation proposals received the superintendent of schools recommended award of the contract to New Day Children's Center. Now therefore be it resolved that the Board of Education approves the award of the contract to New Day Children's Center, approves the proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the agreement and take all necessary steps necessary to carry out its terms. >> Dr. Edison, any discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item M, approval of a pre-K community-based
067organization partnership. >> Whereas on February 23rd, 2026, the Water Valley City School District issued a request for proposals for the universal pre-K kindergarten services pursuant to Commissioner's regulations. Whereas following evaluation of the proposals received the superintendent of schools recommends the award of the contract to the Tree House Child Care Center. Now therefore be it resolved that the Board of Education approves the award of contract to Tree House Child Care Center, approves the proposed contract terms attached to the RFP and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the agreement and take all necessary steps necessary to carry out its terms. >> Dr. Edison, discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. It feels like Groundhog Day, but we're moving on. Approval of a pre-K community-based organization partnership. >> Whereas on February 25th, 2026, the Water
068Valley City School District issued a request for for the universal pre-K pre-kindergarten program services for school committee mission regulations. And whereas following evaluations, the school committee the superintendent of schools recommends the board of the contract to Watertown Family YMCA. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the board of education approves the award of contract to Watertown Family YMCA contract term attached to the RFP and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the agreement and take all steps necessary to carry out this contract. >> Is there a motion, please? I'll make a second. Valid discussion. Also, what I will say for our families that are tuned in or here this evening, the student applications will be available tomorrow afternoon. But I just want to thank all of our community-based partners for all of our efforts with the
069pre-K. We can't educate all of our four- and three-year-olds if we don't have your help, so it's greatly appreciated. Uh and it's nice to have so many community partners willing to do the work with the community partners. Any other discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item 11, approval of position restructuring. >> Whereas Mrs. Lisa Blain currently serves in the administrative tenure area of director of STEM and in tenure status. And whereas the superintendent of schools has recommended that the board of education approve the transfer of Mrs. Blain to the position of director of instructional technology. This is position that lies within the the same director of STEM tenure area in which Mrs. Blain was originally appointed. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the board of education of Watertown City School District approve
070by transfer Mrs. Blain from her current position of director of STEM to the position of director of structural technology, a position that lies within both the director of STEM and the administrator tenure area effective July 1, 2026. And to be it further resolved that Ms. Plain shall retain her tenure status, continue to accrue seniority in the director of STEM tenure area in which she was originally appointed to the extent that she delivers services to the district in the role as director of structural technology. >> St. Washington District >> Tina Anderson >> Oh. Discussion. I will add that um we're excited about this transition. Our director of technology, cybersecurity, and innovation, I may have had the order of that wrong. Um he is retiring uh September 30th, so we're excited that uh Lisa is going to
071uh what she will bring from the instructional side of the house to that position. And I appreciate putting that on the board agenda tonight that allows that transition to happen uh in advance of uh special time. Any discussion? >> So in in in fact she's still a part of >> Yes, she's still a part of Boston. Any questions? It says in the advertisement that board number should be in Yep. >> Congratulations. Uh all those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh key approval of personnel report. >> We move to adopt the following recommendation of the superintendent for the director of Mary Shinkle, the board of education do hereby approves the following appointments for visionary instructional, term visionary instructional, summer school, extended extended school year, special Appointment summer school food service, office personnel, substitute instructional,
072substitute non-instructional, appointment substitutes, uh appointments provisional, uh retirements and designations, people absent. >> Motion is this? Tina Edison. Discussion. I I think this might be the longest one ever. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh item Q, approval of the joint agreement. >> Resolved that upon the recommendation of the superintendent of schools, that the speech legal the agreement dated June 9th, 2026 to the same duration period of instructional employee, the provisional agreement is hereby extended to and including to 30 days 2027 in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the agreement, signed by the superintendent, the instructional employee and the Watervliet Educational Association president is hereby approved. >> Motion is this? Melanie Edison. Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item R, approval of tenure tenure appointments. >> Resolved
073that upon the recommendation of Dr. Lori Snead, superintendent of schools, the following tenure appointments are hereby approved effective August 1st, 2026. >> Here, here, if you could stand up so the board could recognize you. >> August 1st effective. Effective August 1, Matthew Burden, director of student involvement and success. Effective August 31st, 2026, Kaylee Dickens, elementary. Samantha Freeman, science. Kelsey Dawson, elementary. Chelsea Hanson Van Castle, um mathematics. Dylan Hartwick, elementary. Katherine Slater family and consumer science. Sergio Morales special education. Sarah Peters, special education. Madison Shelmadine, elementary. Shannon Wilson, elementary. Effective October 11th, 2026, Natalie Evans, special education. >> Second motion, please. >> So >> I'll second. >> Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Congratulations. >> I had a chance to talk to Kaylee and I thank them for their service. 10 years is a big
074deal and Chelsea getting to follow in her parents' footsteps as an educator is amazing. Um and I I love that color. I'm going to have to get in the well wearing Um it's one of those huge steps in an educator's career, so congratulations and thank you for uh deciding to to start your your careers in these fields with the Waterville City School District institution. So, congratulations one more time. >> Item S, approval of athletic trainer employment agreement. >> We have all pending employment agreements by and between Waterville City School District and an athletic and athletic trainer for the Watertown City School District from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028. So moved by approval. >> Motion is approved. I'll need a second. Discussion? >> We decided to present to the board tonight a tutor contract
075for you. >> All those in favor? Motion is approved. >> Thank you so much for helping me out with this. I appreciate you. >> I need to see approval of an MOA. >> We saw the approval of a memorandum of agreement between the Watertown City School District and the Watertown Administrative and Supervisory Association for the next three 2026-2027 school year regarding the STEM administrator stipend and supervisor stipend. >> Motion is approved. I'll need a second. See any discussion? >> So this is in addition to the Wassa contract. They added a stipend so that as Lisa transitioned over to the director of instructional technology, she would be able to keep what I think is her heartbeat and her pulse, which is STEM. We did force her to add the A letter in there for the arts.
076So See any discussion? >> Um any other discussion or questions? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh you approval of an employment termination. >> We saw that upon the recommendation of Dr. Sneekal, superintendent of schools, the termination of a non-instructional employee effective June 16, 2026 is approved by approval. >> Motion, please. I'll need a second. Any discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item V, approval of educational and or sports student trips. >> I move that the educational and athletic student trips as presented to the board are hereby approved. >> Motion, please. >> Second. >> Okay, and a second. Okay. Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Item W, approval of a club creation with advisor. >> I resolve that the formation of the film club as an extracurricular
077club at Watertown High School with Hannah Mills as club advisor is hereby approved. >> Motion, please. >> Second. >> Okay, and a second. Discussion. Is that the only advisorship? Um, are there any limitations on the films that we use? It's like it's Is teacher history through the film class? Any further discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh, ask approval of the donation. >> I resolve that the Board of Education gratefully accepts a donation from the Youth Alliance of Jefferson County consisting of hygiene items to be used in the Get Ready Room and in Clark Street Elementary School and in support of the fourth grade hygiene education lesson, The uh board hereby accepts donation and will ensure it is acknowledged in writing. >> Motion, please. Second. >> Team first, you should get it.
078>> Discussion. >> All those in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Motion carries. >> Item Y, approval of the donation. >> We resolve that the board hereby accepts and gratefully accepts the donation from the Stewart Shop of sustained several boxes of ice cream and toppings and supplies to the Proctor Elementary School in support of the PBIS ice cream celebration. The board hereby approves the donation and will ensure it is acknowledged in writing. >> Motion, please. >> No, I second. >> Discussion. >> They do it all over the North Country. They've got it down to a science. The little kids do something. >> You can make a recommendation and make the Washington team >> [laughter] >> I don't like that. >> I want to put that resolution up at the next meeting. Don't know if the students
079has to follow it, but I'd like to >> Any further discussion? All those in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Motion carries. >> Item Z, approval of a STEAM administrator. >> I move to resolve that upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, Catherine Larrabee, she will be awarded a stipend of $5,000 to Mrs. Lisa Blaine for STEAM administrator for the 2026-2027 school year is hereby approved. >> I second. Sure. Discussion. All those in favor? Any opposed? It carries. This is how you can tell it's a long meeting. Item A, approval of a community partnerships and strategic communications specialist. >> Resolved that upon the recommendation of Dr. Larry Shinneman, Superintendent of Schools, the appointment of Jamie Lee as community partnerships and strategic communications specialist in the district is hereby approved. >> Motion, please. Melanie Anderson See
080any discussion? >> I want to thank the Board of Education and our community for supporting this position through this year's budget cycle for next year. Um the board should have in front of them some promotional materials of the new position and some highlights. Jamie is a um is a wonderful educator at Case Middle School. Um she was our LMS at that building. Um in charge of our reading initiatives and other things. We did two of those interviews last week and she did an absolutely amazing job. But she's taking a risk to step outside of her comfort zone, outside of her tenure area to really trust the district and help with public relations and our community partnerships. So I just want to thank the board, our community, and Jamie for trusting in that process. Any further
081discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries and good luck Jamie in your position. And item B, the approval of an executive principal. >> Resolved that upon the recommendation of Dr. Larry Shinneman, Superintendent of Schools, the appointment of Katherine Cook as executive principal, 7-12, in the district is hereby approved. >> Motion, please. Melanie Melanie Anderson See any discussion? >> Um I also I to thank community and our Board of Education for supporting this initiative. Um, when you look at the European Spire um, and portrait of a graduate, and all of the hard work that's going to need to go into that to make sure that our staff are ready, and our students and more importantly ready uh, for the variety of options that students are going to have to graduate through various pathways. Uh,
082this position is going to be critical because they're going to be tying the knot between what happens on the left side of the bridge at Case Middle School, and on the right side of the bridge at the high school. Um, so I do ask our community and our staff more importantly to trust the process. Um, we did have the opportunity of meeting with both of the buildings to introduce this and working with our teachers union and administrative union. Um, and this was another thing where we had uh, amazing candidates um, and a wonderful presentation from those candidates where they had to identify some data in our district and what they would do to help bridge that gap between those two buildings and get more kids across the graduation uh, finish line. So, just uh, hence
083finish line outside if you walked underneath it. Um, and the board should have some promotional materials regarding the recommendation in front of them tonight as well. Okay. Any other discussion? All those in favor? Any opposed? Motion carries. Any conflicts here tonight? Just need to stand up. I'll go ahead and introduce our Assistant Director of Facilities, he was on the personnel department. Welcome, Arthur. >> Thank you, sweet angel. >> Um, so lots of great things going on personnel-wise at Watertown, so So, welcome aboard to all of our new hires. We are at the end of the resolutions, which means we are at the second public comment session for this evening. This is for non-agenda related items. Is there anybody here to speak to non-agenda related items? >> Good evening. Um Scott Cole. I just like to
084stop and uh thank the school board and the school itself. Um back in March of 20 when uh the big C hit, um there was a lot of things that changed in the school district. Um when I came back to send the kids back to school my wife and I talked over and we had some concerns in terms of how things were going to be run. So, my wife who took from March of 2020 to September of 25 and home schooled our children and did a great job doing it. Um kind of filled in that gap. In 2025 last year, our kids went back in the school mainly because of the fact that they wanted to play sports. And to this day, I can't get an answer why home schooled kids can't play sports. Um
085I talked to people about we had the insurance to sign off so that they had insurance for them. We were in the school district they were going to play in. Um but we heard it was a school district problem. We heard it was a uh athletic director's issue. We heard it was a state problem. We again, we never heard why. But anyway, they came back to school. Um they loved it during this last year and I just want to be able to thank uh the school district and the staff and help them out. Um Some names I want to throw out. Mainly in sports cuz they're very active in sports. Um in uh in the fall, uh Danny and Nikki Patrick where our daughter played soccer. Uh Mark Everly with cross country. Uh winter one,
086Eric Schofield with girls basketball. Um Mark Everly with boys basketball, winner two, Dave Segrue with volleyball. In the spring, Evan Hazen and Bridget Gates with lacrosse on the girls side, and Nick Lavin with seventh grade baseball. Um It was kind of funny with the seventh grade baseball because Nick Lavin was a catcher for my brother Chad back when he was taking care of the the baseball and uh he got our son into being catching and it was kind of cool watching that come back around. Um Also, um the seventh grade teams, team caring, which was Mia's team. And I just I don't know all the teachers names, but um and for Mateo it was team citizenship. Um They helped us out a lot in a lot of different things, to include that a couple weeks
087ago when my father was having some medical issues and then passed away, Aaron emailed the teachers and they were they were very they were exceptional in terms of how they helped the kids to be able to understand. We didn't want the kids to have excuses, but we wanted to know if something had changed that they knew, you know, what was going on. So, but we're good. Yeah, somebody sent it to the psych page. >> [laughter] >> So, the process of going from home school into school, we also knew our son was dyslexic and had dysgraphia and having had an older daughter who graduated from Watervliet City School District with very similar issues, we were able to connect with Ashley Buckley, the school psychologist at Case, who was able to finish doing the evaluations that our
088primary care had started and was able to get Mateo his IEPs and really has been a cheerleader behind him telling him what he can do and how to do it better and has even suggested we do Spanish next year. So, we'll see how that goes. But also, when we reached out >> [laughter] >> Um also reached out with Mia having home school with testing with the different options. So, she was lots of anxiety really and to actually, again, was great on helping us through the 504 process, as was Matt Burdick on getting us in and getting making sure we had all of that we needed and that we understood. Also, Katie Taylor, the seventh grade chorus teacher, has really taken Mia up under her wing. Mia's kind of a shy, shelled little kid, unlike her
089brother who knows everybody. I swear he kisses babies and shakes hands as he walks down hallways. Has really taken her under her wing and really got her to come out of her shell. And >> Elijah. >> Special Yeah, special thanks to Melissa Newcomb. Neither one of my children actually have her, but she has been a great person that if there was a bad day, just looking down, Melissa Newcomb is always there to offer a hug, offer advice, just pat them on the back to let them know that everything was going to be okay. So, overall, we have been nothing but amazed with the support we received with returning to school this school year, with Case Middle School District, the athletic departments, and everyone across the board. So, we really just wanted to thank the school
090and the teachers, cuz you know, sometimes they don't get the recognition. They only get the bad things that come out in passing, I think, along those lines. >> Thank you so much for taking the time to >> Thank you. >> Does anybody else have any agenda-related other discussions tonight or comments? Thank you so much for those comments, those nice comments for our staff and our teachers. All right. Um so, public comment is closed. We have time for any issues, discussion, or information. We have nothing listed. Is there anything any board members would like to bring up for discussion or information? I make a motion to adjourn. Upcoming dates. The Case Middle School awards ceremony is Wednesday, June 17th at 6:30 p.m. in the Waterville High School auditorium. The uh June 10th, no school, district is
091closed on Friday, June 19th. Case Middle School National Junior Honor Society induction is Monday, June 22nd at 6:30 p.m. in the Waterville High School auditorium. And then the Case Middle School moving up ceremony on Thursday, June 25th at 6:30 p.m. Also in the Waterville High School auditorium. Early dismissal for grades K through 8 on Wednesday, June 24th and Thursday, June 25th. And the last official day of school for K-8 is Thursday, June 25th. The commencement ceremony for our graduating seniors is Friday, June 26th at 7:00 on the Case turf field. Pray for good weather, please. And then the public hearing for the district safety plan and code of conduct followed by the regular Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, July 7th starting at 4:00 p.m. here in the district office conference room. Busy time of
092year with all of our moving up ceremonies and our award ceremonies and uh this is our year of the Uh look around the districts. They're all Let's start. What are you doing tonight, Brooke? Um it was a little bummed the pre-K graduation. Um It was uh looking forward to one last round of magic dance. Um Let's Uh the Uh you don't have to hear from me anymore. I was Yeah, finished going. Um that was just awesome to see so many people. Thank I thought it would be a fun event before going into it, but just seeing how many people came and just uh kind of thought it was inspiring. So, um looking forward to more events like that. Hillary, you've been really, really quiet today. Our Today at the high school we hosted Class Day
093which gave our seniors an opportunity to go to elementary schools and the Case Middle School library and the gift schools to walk through the grounds at least one more time. Uh during the class ceremony, it was very emotional at the scene. I felt all friends and classmates faces appear on the screen as they do graduate this year. It's emotional to see them graduate. Fun moments. That's all I can say. >> It was sweet. >> I guess I just want to say thank you. >> Um so, I thought that I went to the uh high school awards. Um I thought that was very well done, very cute. Congratulations to all the students that got the award. Um and the uh finish strong was amazing. The amount of families that went, that were so grateful and just
094excited. There were a few of them I was standing next to after she got like he came up and was like, "Thank you." for doing that. You don't know what that was, you know. But they who knows what the future may bring. Um went to um Mrs. Martin's fifth grade class. Graduation was my kids. Next year, my kids graduate. That's going to be a tough one. That'll be a an emotional one for me. Uh they did a great job and and they went I went back to the classrooms and they did have their famous coffee bar and their snacks and it's where some of them didn't have anybody anything. They eat, drink. They almost feel Italian, I'm sure. Um and because this is the last board meeting for the end of the school year, for
095everybody, I just wanted to give a a huge shout out to all of our staff. Um thank you for all you've done to help our kids grow. I know that times have been tough sometimes, but you all pushed through and I am very grateful to each and every one. And um some of the retirees I won't talk about because they'll make time. Um but we've lost some some good good people this year. Orris was amazing as always. >> Um first I just want to thank Jason for his seven years on the board um and for having some some tough conversations right when I first came on, so that was helpful. Um his experience on the board throughout the years. Leading into our retirees, we are losing seven some strong people this year, so whatever that
096number was was phenomenal. 400 something. >> 495 >> Crazy. So, um but like you said, we wish them the best. You all have a happy retirement. I also did the finish strong on the track. It was a lot. I was not expecting that many people, so I loved that. And then again, I went to the public speaking finals and they continue to blow me away just like the teachers and the the teacher being able to get high school kids to be so vulnerable and open up without all these topics. I just I love that we were invited to it and they did such a great job. Sorry, I'm getting emotional today. I want to thank crossing guards. I feel like they're kind of unsung heroes. I've really been paying attention on my radar work the
097last few weeks. Um and the one by Sherwin in particular. Bless her soul. She I mean, she obviously stops traffic, but she's doing helmets and she's fixing bikes and she's having these heart-to-hearts at 7:30 in the morning. So, I just feel like that's kind of an unsung hero kind of job. I don't know what it was like then. So, in the morning, so um I want to thank them for all they do because that's a lot. Um and finally, I feel like we have to do a little more digging, but as a former athlete from Sully, um and a former Ohio staff member, I 100% agree that I like words to go with the magic behind certain events in the building. Um and as a bunch of people are talking about extra adults in a
098building, Sully, I do think you are one of those people. So, I have questions, but we won't. Thank you for being that person for a lot of students. >> Okay. Um I'll keep this quick because there's a staple in the agenda. You know what? No, I I I appreciate the words you had to say. Um it does does raise that question cuz I don't know the answer of why students can participate. So, I know this is a super busy time for everyone, but I think in the near future, we can maybe not necessarily get an answer to that question, but at least get the person that can give us an answer. So, if anyone else comments, we'll forward it to that person. >> It is from the New York State High School Athletic Association. >>
099If I can add, I we we know we were told it was a section issue. It wasn't a New York State. It was cuz there are schools in New York State that do allow homeschoolers to participate. We were told it was a section thing, but no one could ever confirm it was a section thing. >> And just to add to that, the comment you just made, I think it's That's what That's what we've heard a lot of that we that you know I think is that from different people. So, we again we haven't been able to find the right person to answer the question 100%. >> There's so many layers there. >> No worries, she's not leaving. >> There is. >> And we're glad you're here now. >> I'm very glad that they didn't go
100to school. >> We're glad to have >> All right, so I I was reading this last meeting and I did have a message for Dr. Annie Gearhart. I think I have to read it. I think it's still corporate, so I'm going to get it in. I need to get a new one this week, so I think it'll set. The positive postcard challenge was in full swing with one more month to go, so obviously we've cut that time down by a couple of weeks. Faculty and staff have been diligently sending positive positive postcards to students, colleagues, and families. Percentages are determined based on each building's student enrollment for the month of May. Every building met and exceeded the 20% goal, with two buildings meeting the 80% bonus goal. A hydration station will come to each building
101in the coming weeks, so faculty and staff can have a cup of sunshine and keep making this splash of positivity across the Watertown community. Did they get their hydration stations yet? >> Yeah. >> They did? >> Yeah. >> Well received, I'm sure. >> Yeah, and they all made a big splash, too. >> Well, I want to give a program. Um my daughter got one home. >> Amazing. >> Um thank you for everybody that that came to the meeting and stuck it out with us tonight. It's appreciated. Congratulations to our 10-year teachers who are in the first um first two years of their career, congratulate Congratulations to our retirees who are wrapping up their careers as as Watertown Cyclones. Um like I said, that the one word that comes to mind is is reverence. I always
102look at the retirees that I've been blessed enough to have in my life, and they were always the people who knew it all. They knew They knew the kids. They knew how to crack the hard nuts. They They had the right information. They were just They were sages. Um and that's a a lot of of institutional knowledge and wisdom um, is that is retiring, but it's well-earned and well-deserved. I do hope that they do have a very long and healthy retirement. Uh, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention Jason Harrington, who is at one of his son's award ceremony this evening. Uh, which is why he was not here tonight, but, um, I can remember getting elected to the Board of Education, and thinking to myself, "Oh my god, what have I gotten
103myself into?" Uh, and I get this phone call from the board president, which seemed larger than life at the time. Uh, and he says, "We got to meet." That sounds kind of ominous. Um, and so, we uh, scheduled an appointment, and I went down to his funeral home to meet with him to kind of get the lay of the land, not knowing what to expect. Uh, and Jason was just warm, and and welcoming, and helpful. Um, you know, nobody gets on the board because it's going to make them famous, or because it's going to make them rich. They get on the Board of Education because they want to help kids. They want to ensure our school district is doing the best it can for our families, for our students, for our teachers, and our staff.
104Uh, and I think that Jason, uh, epitomizes that. Um, so, I I will miss him on the board, but I know he's got his hands full with all of the things that he's doing in his own life. So, he, uh, thank you, Jason, for all of these years of service. Um, and with that, we are in need of a an executive session for the purpose of the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person or corporation. I have a motion, please. Tina, and a second. Good. All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? I need executive session.