001Sometimes they even have the like they see a motion to go to executive session to discuss a personnel matter. Make a motion. >> Thank you, Dennis. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Don. All those in favor? >> I. The motion passes. We will return at 6:30 or shortly around and thereafter Okay. Welcome to the school board meeting. Welcome to Harris Hill. Um, we're going to start. I'm going to call the meeting to order. We'll start with the pledge of allegiance. The flag is in that direction. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. Roll call. I believe we're all here except Cindy. Correct. >> Correct.
002>> All right. Approval of the agenda. I'll take a motion to approve tonight's agenda. >> I'll make a motion, James. >> Thank you, Don. Do I have a second? >> I'll second. Thank you, Adrian. All those in favor? >> I I The motion passes. Approval of the minutes. We got the BOE minutes and executive session from October 27th, 2025. We were all there. Anyone have any comments or questions on the minutes? If not, I'll take a motion to approve the minutes. >> I'll make a motion. >> Thank you, Dennis. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Mike. All those in favor? >> I The motion passes. Announcements. Does anyone have any announcements today? >> I do, James. Um on October 31st, uh Matt, uh Trish and I went to the UB Center
003for AI business innovation. Uh we were able to tour the facility and talk to a number of the uh uh professors and and deans and we also saw this fabulous EA sports department they have. Uh but it was a great meeting and it looks like we're going to have a nice uh partnership with uh with UB and they also expressed an interest in partnering with the Erie County School Boards and other districts. So, it was a great start and we're looking forward to continued cooperation with you. >> Thank you, Dennis. Any other announcements? >> Oh, yes, I have one. Um, on November 13th, uh, Dennis, Dr. Groka, and myself attended, um, the legislative for of the Erie County School Boards put on. Uh, we met with Karen Howard, which is Patrick Galvin's, uh, liaison, and
004Paul Bolognia. Um, we had encouraging conversation and dialogue was had. We discussed electric buses and the need to put those on hold or at the very least extend the deadline in which districts need to have them. Uh funding for mental health supports and student supports for schools, funding for SRO and safety related items, and lastly allowing the districts to have more local control. >> Thank you, Trisha. Any other announcements? Hearing none, we're going to move on to correspondence. Since the last meeting, we did get some correspondence regarding curriculum at Harris Hill. I would Dr. Frame address that we have no unfinished business and Dr. Frame will move on to Red Devil Worknations. >> Thank you, President Buglei. Welcome everyone. Uh thank you for spending some time with us tonight. For those of you who have
005not attended one of our meetings before, uh the favorite thing that our board does every time it meets is that it pauses to recognize individuals who are really going above and beyond here in our school community. So a couple years ago they had started what's called a red devil recognition program and we had surveyed members of our faculty, staff, students and family members and said when we think about those traits and characteristics that make us really proud to be a red devil what are they and four things jumped off the page uh folks who are hardworking uh folks who are respectful uh folks who are kind and and people who are compassionate and so on a rolling basis we accept nominations for people who um really um demonstrate these attributes and it's the favorite part
006of our work. We pause at each meeting. We read parts of the nominations that were submitted and we thank and recognize people who make us really proud to be members of the school district. Um there's additional information on the website and uh if you're interested in this particular program. But tonight uh in just a minute, President Bali and myself are going to move toward the uh back screen where there's a a group of people waiting to greet us. It looks like um we're going to call folks up one at a time. the individuals who nominated and the people who were nominate uh the nominators and the nominated um and we have certificates for them. We have mugs. We have pins. We're going to read again parts of their nominations. Uh we'll give them a round
007of applause. We're going to make sure that we get their photograph and then we'll use our communication spe specialist to share uh parts of their um award recipients tonight uh with uh members of our school community. So again, uh this is one of our favorite things that we do. We're going to head to the back screen and uh and welcome a really special group of people. All right. First up this evening we have Jackie Bowman who is a teacher in the high school and McKenzie Mahoney a colleague who have nominated. >> So um if you could come back Jackie and McKenzie and then I see that we have Mr. Smith and Mrs. Mampy tonight. We're going to have you join the photograph. Uh Ken and Julie are colleagues in the high school. Uh so Jackie
008we're going to put you in the hot seat right here in the middle. Uh McKenzie we're going to have you come and stand next to your colleague. And again we'll welcome uh Ken and Julie. So, I'm going to read part of what McKenzie had written about Jackie when she submitted the nomination. Uh, McKenzie writes, "Jackie continuously works herself day in and day out to ensure that the special education department at the high school runs smoothly on top of the many other events she attends and assists in putting together. She's not only a major support and mentor to her students, but to her colleagues as well. Her experience allows her to give the best advice possible. Although she spreads herself into many different directions, she manages it all and does it all with a smile. She
009makes her students feel safe and shares her vast knowledge in a way that keeps them engaged. No matter what she's doing, she's always willing to aid others out of the kindness of her heart. So Jackie is a member of our high school special education department, a department chair, uh an adviser of our student counselor, and involved in the play. Correct. So, you're going on uh not much uh this week with our show coming up in a couple of days. So, if you would join me in a round of applause to thank Jackie for all that she does. [applause] Ken and Julie, we're going to scooch in a little bit closer. [laughter] >> Congratulations, Jackie. Next up, we have Jill Schnuska, our assistant superintendent for student support services, and Penny Connors, a colleague in the family
010support center. So, if they would join us here in front of the screen. So, Jill, this is the first time that a member of our cabinet team has been recognized, which makes me wonder, what are Rob, Kristen, and Patty doing? Uh, they've been around a lot longer. Just kidding, team. Just kidding. U, but welcome. We're we're um thrilled to have you up here today. So this is what Penny writes, a colleague in the family support services department. Jill has been an invaluable addition to the Clarence Central School District in her role as assistant superintendent, bringing dedication, insight, and a strong sense of purpose to everything she does. Throughout her first full year in the district, Jill has gone above and beyond to support students, staff, and families. She's taken on a significant leadership role, working
011to enhance and sustain existing programs while also identifying opportunities for growth and innovation. Jill's thoughtful leadership has helped strengthen district-wide initiatives and build bridges across departments and buildings. Jill has been instrumental in navigating complex relationships and supporting collaborative efforts between administration, faculty, and the broader school community. Her ability to lead with both professionalism and empathy has fostered a culture of trust and respect among her colleagues. She's quick to offer support and guidance, always with the intent of helping others succeed. Whether working behind the scenes or leading conversations that move the district forward, Jill approaches every task with a deep sense of purpose and care. Her ability to remain grounded and responsive, especially during challenging moments, highlights her strength as a compassionate and kind leader. Jill's work ethic, strategic mindset, and unwavering commitment to the Clarence
012community, reflect the core values of respect, hard work, kindness, and compassion. Her impact is already deeply felt and she's more than deserving of this recognition. If you would join me in recognizing Jill Schmish, [applause] >> Congratulations. Thank you. Next up, we have Christopher Kil Martin, a house principal in our middle school, and Christine McKitaran, uh, I believe a parent who had nominated Chris. So, I'll read from the nomination. It says that Mr. Mr. Kil Martin deserves to be recognized for his professionalism and great input in our child's life. He was a bridge between the school and us during that transitional period. He didn't get tired from being consistent, thoughtful, and open-minded. It took uh from him significant energy to explain our son the importance of school and plan organized many more nuances school related having
013in mind the goal to shape a kind and intelligent student. Clarence did an amazing job by assigning him to this position and we will always be grateful for the journey navigated by Mr. Kil Martin. If you will join me in congratulating Chris on everything that he brings. [applause] Next up we have Mr. Keith Store who is nominated by Ashley Williamson and Jacob Williamson. If Keith and the Williamsons would join us and if Ken and Julie are still here to come on back up to the screen as well. I'll read from the nomination. Keith has been in an integral part of our son's life both as a coach and a role model. Do you have practice tonight? >> Night one. All right. Coach Store pours into each of his students and athletes on his team. All
014of his athletes from the past year are scholar athletes. The students have not only learned the importance of hard work during practice and matches, but they've learned the importance of academics in their lives. Not many students are able to juggle an aggressive, physically draining sport with successful grades as um well as so having the most team be able to do so is impressive. Coach Store also checks in on his students mental well-being. Our world was rattled a short amount of time ago at the beginning of this year. Jacob's dad was uh diagnosed uh with stage 4 cancer. I reached out to Keith because I know how much he cares for his kids on his team. Jacob is a very well-rounded student and takes every opportunity that that Clarence Schools has given him. Keith immediately checked
015in with Jacob and he's continued to keep his door open almost as a refuge for Jacob at school. One last thing I'd like to leave you with. Coach Store spent a recent Saturday at our home helping a group of boys from school, Jacob Jacob included, ripping off our roof to get it ready to be replaced. That's what makes Clarence educators such incredible humans. Not only did Coach Store care enough to reach out, he did something. I can't even begin to explain the amount of gratitude we owe to people like Coach Store for caring enough to do. We are so proud to be part of the Clarence community to know that our children are loved and supported both in and out of school. Thanks for taking the time to read this and thank you for hiring
016such incredible humans. Uh this is why we love reading these and starting our meetings with them. They highlight the fact that we don't just work with great teachers and great coaches, but we work with great people uh who who care deeply about our students. So, if you would join me in recognizing coach [applause] If Jeff Cook and Lisa Brown would join me up here with Mark Manrey, walk don't run members and leaders of our corporate uh challenge team. >> I'm representing Lisa and so I'm not >> we're glad glad to have you. So, we're here uh with Jeff Cook and Mark Manrey representing not just himself but his colleague from East Aurora, Lisa Brown. Uh for those who don't know, Jeff is a member of our science faculty in the high school. He also for
017years has quarterbacked our corporate challenge team uh which for years has looked behind us to see our folks from East Aurora that are trying to catch up with the Red Devils. Um, and Mark Manrey, who is not just a member of the East Aurora school community, but also a parent here in Clarence, uh, last year had suggested that we combine into one devil's team. And so, we shared a tent and food and had a really fun evening together. And then Mark had written a nomination for uh, both Jeff and Lisa. So, I'll read from that. Above and beyond their normal teaching responsibilities, Jeff and Lisa volunteered countless hours to an event that celebrated the profession of education, focused on wellness, built professional camaraderie, and was fun. Together, they were responsible for planning, promoting, coordinating food,
018prizes, and decorations for the first ever joint JP Morgan corporate challenge team at the June 12th uh on June 12th in downtown Buffalo. This event included 100 plus challengers from both Clarence and East Aurora schools. Talks are already happening about how to grow this into a new annual tradition. Anyone who brings people together for both physical and social wellness deserves to be recognized as a red, blue question mark, purple devil combining the two different districts. The event was a ton of fun, a huge success. It wouldn't have happened without these two gentlemen and their colleague Lisa from East Aurora. If you would uh join me in a round of applause for this >> [applause] >> So, Mark, you had nominated both Jeff and Lisa, but we know how much time you spent uh making sure
019your kids were dressed as devils for pro promotional videos and pictures and communicating. And so, we didn't want you to go home without your own certificate, mug, and pin. And we really are looking forward to uh rolling it back this spring and and having another race. So, uh if we can get if we can get a photograph Thanks, Jeff. Thanks, Mark. If you're looking at your agenda, you know that that's the the Red Devil recognition list. We have one additional and and late ad. I wonder if John Berdesiac would join me up here with Gretchen Burton. So, come on up, uh, John, and come on up. [applause] So, if you've seen John in front of this screen before, he has been the nominator of peers in the district, and he's always done an incredible, thoughtful
020job. And as we're here at Harris Hill, it is completely appropriate that he has center stage here tonight. So, John, please join us. This is a nomination that was filled out uh by your uh teacher and mentor, Mrs. Burton. And Mrs. Burden writes, "John is a senior, but also a Harris Hill graduate who dedicates three mornings a week to get up early and work for our school in three different capacities. The school store, our dressown cart, and reading to our four kindergarten classes throughout the school year. Jen John sets up the products, uses excellent customer service, makes changes, and breaks down the mobile store before leaving for class at the high school. He independently collects money from faculty, counts it, and secures it in our safe." John practices and always is well prepared when he
021reads to the kindergarten students and prepares related questions and often participates in follow-up activities. John is in high demand here at Harris Hill and all the students love being around him. He can be seen interacting with students throughout his uh various work here, giving high fives, laughing, and giving out hugs. He's a wonderful role model. The students are drawn to him and seek out interacting with him. John is respectful with his supervisors and reliable with his schedule and any changes to it. John could choose to sleep in like many teenagers would, but instead he has consistently been a part of our school community for over two plus years. We love having John be a part of our school. We will miss him when he graduates. He was on duty this morning volunteering his time when
022our board took a tour. Um, and John, uh, we are so impressed and so thankful you are a student leader here in our school district. If you would join me in congratulating John. [applause] All right, that's it for Red Devil recognitions. We always say to folks that have nominated or have been nominated, you are welcome to stay for the rest of the meeting. We also know that it is a Monday night at a busy point in time. if you'd like to take off, we completely understand and hope that you uh drive safe this evening. So, thank you again for being with us tonight. While we wait for Dr. Frame to re reappear, um we're going to move on to board reports wellness committee meeting. The wellness committee met on October 22nd. The committee reviewed the
023district's wellness policy in small groups examining such areas as nutrition, physical and health education, wellness activities, communication, and committee structure. groups identified strengths including strong physical education and health programs, active wellness initiatives, solid community support, and the family support center. And the group noted key gaps. Outdated policy language, limited attention to mental and social health in certain areas, lack of formal building level wellness teams and wellness efforts not clearly tied to the policy. Members were given an assessment tool to complete before the next meeting where the results will help guide policy updates and future team goals. >> Thank you, Adrian. Um, we have CEF Dawn. >> Um, I think all I have to report is we're midway through our um, gift card raffle and Avery's doing a great job. um picking well not picking but
024spinning to get the winners. We also did um our last meeting was um grants. So we hope to have grants out before the next meeting. >> Thank you. >> So we're looking forward to that. >> Thank you. PTO meetings. Anyone attend any PTO meetings since the last meeting? >> Uh yes. I attended um the middle school PTO meeting uh last week. And at the middle school, gingerbread house making contest is coming up. It's open to students and teachers. Uh you can buy the gingerbread kits through the PTO. Uh earlier in the year, the sixth grade sixth graders had an experience. And coming up on November 25th will be the seventh grade experience and that's um it'll be a fun day which uh will be centered around the game of clue. Um there's they'll have team
025building activities where teams will earn clues to help them solve the mystery. Um, so it should be a fun day for all our seventh graders. Uh, book fair was very successful. Parent teacher conferences are coming up Thursday, December 4th, and they can sign up with their teacher if they would like one of those. The spirit wear sales going on currently, and the the middle school fall band concert is this Wednesday, November 19th at 7 p.m. >> Thank you. Any other PTO updates? Hearing none, I'll move on to Erie County Associate School Board Representatives. Any updates? >> I think we already got it during announcements. >> Okay, moving on. Dr. Frame, superintendent's report. >> Thank you, Mr. Baglioli. We have three different reports tonight. We have our Harris Hill update and the reason that we're here
026in this space this evening. Uh we'll do a brief update on our strategic planning for this current school year. And then as always, we have Avery Collins who give our student uh body update. Um so I'll turn things over to Mr. Vicio and his student and staff leaders. Good evening, Board of Education, uh, District Office, Dr. Frame, Miss Collins, thank you so much for having us here tonight. Um, Harris Hill is thrilled to have hosted the board of education this morning. Um, in years past, our updates have highlighted the many different initiatives happening, but for tonight, we decided to take a deeper dive into just one aspect, and that would be a portrait of a graduate. You may be wondering why we are talking about this at the elementary level and hopefully that will become
027clearer as tonight goes on and you see the presentation up there on the wall. Uh Dr. Overhalt Ken Smith and his team of administrators um have done tremendous work ahead of the New York State Department of Education initiative um and Harris Hill was fortunate enough to have Gretchen Row one of our TOSAs present at a faculty meeting and share uh the importance of this work and how we can support at the elementary level. Um, what we know is this. We are preparing students for jobs that don't exist yet. Artificial intelligence and rapid technological shifts are reshaping the workforce. And the truth is, we cannot predict exactly what our students will need. But through portrait of a graduate, we can ensure they build the timeless skills that will help them succeed in any future path. These
028six attributes, reflective and future focused, critical thinking, global citizen, creative innovator, effective communicator, and academically prepared represent those competencies that transcend many careers. As educators, we have always excelled at building academic preparedness. But tonight, we're elevating something equally important, and that is the unwritten curriculum. the experiences, leadership, collaboration, work-based learning, service learning, problem solving opportunities that shape students lives um beyond the traditional academics. These experiences live on in student memories. This evening, you will hear from five of our top dog mentors who will share some of these non-traditional yet deeply meaningful learning experiences during their K to 5 years that exemplifies the portrait of a graduate in action. You'll notice their pictures grow up on the screen just as they have as leaders. So, you'll have to watch both them at the mic and up
029there, too. Um, so to welcome our top dogs, I'd like to have uh Mrs. Marissa Dvau come up. She is an amazing student leadership coordinator who works tirelessly to make sure uh that we develop our next leaders. Mrs. Dvau, >> thank you. Good evening, everyone. Last year, we had 12 student leaders known as our Harris Hill top dogs. We were so impressed by five of those students for their communication skills, their forward thinking, their creativity, and strong character that we invited them to return this year and serve as mentors for our new top dogs. Please welcome You guys can come stand up next to me, Charlotte Walters, Lauren Brown, Delaney Truman, Lucy Brewer, and Maddie Heights. These students truly embody leadership. They independently approached me about concerns they notice in the school, seek help when
030classmates aren't showing husky characters, offer ideas to improve school events, create things on their own time, and look for ways to spread kindness without being asked. This mentor program allows kids to lead kids. It holds them accountable while helping them build essential skills and positive mindsets that will support them throughout their education and beyond. And we could not be more proud of these students today. Hi. Hi. My name is Lucy and I'm in fourth grade. I helped collect mittens, scarves, and other winter items for people in need through our mitten tree project. Being part of this experience helped me grow as a Harrisil Husky and show me how I'm developing important life skills. I become a creative innovator by helping solve a real problem in our community. I use effective communication when I create fun
031and eye-catching flyers to encourage other students to donate. Most importantly, I learned what it means to be a global citizen by showing empathy, understanding the needs of others, and taking action to help. This project helped me see how even small choices can make a big difference. I learned so much so much from this experience, and I'm glad I can be a mentor for the top dogs. [applause] Trunk or treat. Hi, my name is Charlotte and I'm in fifth grade. Last year, the top dogs asked our asked our adviserss if we could host a trunk or treat just like some of the other schools. I was proud to be a creative innovator by helping design our own Harris Hill version of the event. Each Top Dog partnered with a teacher volunteer to create a theme trunk
032to bring the whole idea to life. We even arranged food trucks to make the night extra special. Effective communication was a huge part of making this event successful. And it must have worked because we even ran out of candy and had to get more. We needed to be critical thinkers when we had to figure out how to refill the candy supplies in the middle of the event when we ran out. Planning and organizing something as big as trunk or treat taught me how to taught me much about teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. It helped me be more reflective and future focused because I had to learn about myself, my strengths, challenges I can handle, and the kind of leader I want to be. [applause] Hi, my name is Len and I'm a fifth grade student. Last
033year, my friend Charle Walters and I were creative innovators when we came up with the idea for Harris Hill's very first Valentine's Day dance. This was something new and exciting because most elementary schools don't have dances and we wanted to create a positive positive event for everyone. Planning the dance helped me become a critical thinker as I helped decide on the food, decorations, and all the important details that go into organizing a big event. I practiced being an effective communicator by making flyers and posters so people knew about the dance. And I also shared the information with my friends so they could help spread the word. I grew as a global citizen by listening to what students wanted and including others in the planning so the event could be the best it could be. I
034was also reflective and future focused because even though I don't yet know what I want to be when I grow up, I know that being organized and responsible will help me in the future. I practice these skills every day by keeping my desk and locker clean, turning in my homework, and trying my best to be on time. [applause] My name is Delaney and I am a fourth grader and I'm here to share how I showed leadership by being part of our Veterans Day assembly. Through this experience, I demonstrated what it means to be future focused, a global citizen, and an effective communicator. I learned about the different branches and jobs in the military, which helped me understanding many ways people serve and protect our country. I practice I practice effective communication when I spoke in
035front of the entire school and introduce the next speakers in the program and worked on my entire school in the public speaking skills. I also grew as a global citizen by learning about the sacrifices veterans make and recognizing the importance of of honoring them. Finally, I participated in service learning by helping set up the assembly and making sure our guests felt welcomed and appreciated. This experience helped me practice important skills that will guide me in the future. [applause] Hi, my name is Maddie and I'm a fifth grader. Last year, I was a cast member in the Finding Nemo musical, and I played one of the sequels. I had a really fun time, even though it was a little scary to sing and speak in front of such a big crowd. Being in the musical made
036me think about my future and helped me realize something important. I probably don't want to be an actor because performing in front of people isn't something I'm super comfortable with. Sometimes learning what you don't want to do is just as important as discovering what you do want to do. The musical helped me build skills that go far beyond the regular classroom. I learned how to work as a collaborator with my classmates, and I had to memorize lines, dances, and songs to bring the story to life. I practiced being an effective communicator by performing on stage and convincing the audience that I was a seagull. I also grew a creative innovator by adding my own personality and creative and creativity into the role. This experience helped me understand my life myself better and strengthen important portrait
037of a graduate skills I will use in the future. [applause] Next up we have Mr. John Bdziac uh to speak tonight to everybody. You heard a little bit about him and I don't want to steal all the thunder, but we have two amazing educators um who've really supported and developed this idea of bringing back a high school student to run an internship and that's Mrs. Gretchen Burton and Mrs. Christine Richie. So, thank you to them and [applause] I present to you the man in demand. Students and teachers love John and we love having him. Um, I want John to tell us a little bit about why he's here. >> Thank you to Sorry. There we go. You're tall. >> Thank you to Mr. Bicio, Mrs. Ree, and Mrs. Burton for inviting me here tonight. I'd
038like to tell you about how my work at Harishell has given me the opportunity to learn important life skills in portrait of a graduate qualities. Uh along with my high school academics, this path will help me become a contributing member of our community. Skills I learned while working at Harris Hill include responsibility, independence, communicating with adults and children, and public speaking, which I'm practicing tonight. >> Additionally, many of the attributes that John has learned and is still learning at Harrisel are also the same attributes reflected in the portrait of a graduate. expectations, critical thinking, effective communication, being a global citizen, and reflective and future focused. We will highlight just a few of the many jobs as I spoke over there that he's taken over the course of the past three years. Um, and one of
039them is managing the dress down car thing and we always collect money to raise money for different charities and we weren't really getting a lot of money and we decided that's how John loops around the school and he has taken it and really increased the amount of money that teachers give and he answers questions and he has to make change. He has to secure the money and it has completely changed our dress down. Sounds um like it's nothing, but it's actually a big thing because we give a lot of money to different charities throughout every month. And Mrs. Ree, if you want to talk about some of the things that he does with our school store, he comes three days a week to um Harrison Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. So on Monday and Wednesdays, he
040is my assistant manager at the school store. And talk about learning responsibility. He's the one who keeps me on track because with the influx of children coming in off the buses, we need to be set up at least before 7:45. And he comes at 7:30 to get us set up. And I have to admit, I probably shouldn't say this in front of so many of my bosses. On Fridays when he is not here reminding me to come set up the school store with him, I will hear his cart and he has a bell and I'll hear the cart and I'll be like, "John, oh the store." And sometimes I have to run out and set up my school store all by myself. So I'm not sure what I'm going to do next year when I
041am the lonely manager. I'm hoping that we can continue this program. I do believe he is learning a lot of great qualities. Um, not only is he greeting customers, making change, helping them shop, um, there are fifth grade students who are also school employees. There's a couple here today. And he helps me kind of manage them, making sure that we're all taking turns, that everyone has a chance to wait on the customers. Um, and that he is also one of his biggest jobs is every once in a while, about once or twice a month, I'll say, "Oh gosh, John, our stock is looking a little uh small. What do you think I should order?" And then he helps me and we go on Amazon and we find all of the the the new and exciting
042um fidgets and school supplies that the kids need. And the last thing that he does uh for us, which he says is one of his favorite things to do, is uh periodically he reads to our four kindergarten classes. And um the teachers give me a book and then I send it home with John and John does a great job preparing to read in that class. So John, can you tell us a little bit about how you learned responsibility and independence here at your work uh at Carousel? Yeah, for re for responsibility, I keep track of my internship schedule. I set up the school store and take care of the dress on day cart. I can make sure I practice the reader routes for kindergarters. I've become more independent at my jobs. For example, at first,
043Mrs. Burton had to be with me for the dress on day card and gave me a checklist so I knew what to do. Now I know the way around the school, how to collect money from the teachers, count the money, record the totals, and put it in the safe. >> Does it all by itself? So tell us about how the communication skills um that you you friends, how's this job helped you with your communication skills? Every day that I'm at Harishville, I say good morning to the adults and children and look at them in the eyes. On Fridays, I say happy Friday. I am able to answer questions about my jobs and I know how to help kindergarters when I'm their in their classrooms. Practicing communication skills at my internship has helped me to be
044more confident in my community and to be a global citizen. And finally, how has this internship helped you with public speaking? >> During my internship, I practiced speaking in front of big crowds. For example, at the end of the fifth end of the year awards assembly, I announced the names of the fifth graders who work at the store. The first year I did this, I remember thinking that I didn't want to do it, but I challenged myself. Now I feel more confident speaking in front of big crops. They >> sure do. Um, and these are just a few examples of all the work that John does at Harris. He's famous at our school. The kids and teachers love him and he has become a huge role model and a leader for our children. We love
045that. We're going to miss him. I'd like to thank Mr. Picassio for welcoming me into his school and special thanks to Mrs. Burton and Mrs. Reese for supporting me throughout my internship at Harris. I love my time here and know that this experience is preparing me for the future. [applause] >> [applause] >> A big thank you to our top dog mentors and to John Berdesiac. Um, tonight we heard about some of those non-traditional learning experiences and the value that lies therein. Um, their stories highlight something important. It's the skills developed through the unwritten curriculum are many of the very skills uh that will drive tomorrow's workforce. These experiences push us to be thoughtful and intentional about where we invest our time, what learning we elevate, and how we adapt to a rapidly changing world. The
046work being done at the high school level has inspired Harris Hill to form its own committee dedicated to strengthening this portrait of a graduate idea here. Um, and as we begin this journey, there are a few things that have become become clear, especially in tonight's presentation. And that is we are already doing some of this work. Um, it's not all new. We know that what gets measured gets done. So what if more of this unwritten curriculum was written down and we were strategic about that. Um we know that having a portfolio or a co-curricular transcript um would elevate this work helping us to formally measure that type of work. And then lastly um we want these experiences to become part of the students story that travels with them so that it's not just held in
047their memories. It's not just something that happened at elementary school, but they take that on to middle school, high school, and beyond as they quas create their resume um with their time with us, even at the elementary school level. Um so, the portrait of a graduate is not an add-on. Um it's the lens through which we help students grow as thinkers, creators, collaborators, and citizens. And tonight, our student showed us exactly why it matters. So, thank you for your visit today. Thank you for your time and getting to know more about Harrisville. >> [applause] >> I was just thinking a a couple weeks ago number of board members traveled to the the annual school boards conference and on the last day the commissioner of education who oversees the 700ish school districts in New York State
048sat with members of her team and they spoke to the audience about portrait of a graduate and they really were talking at sort of a philosophical theoretical level talking about rubrics and one thing that they didn't offer was a lot of detail on what they meant when they're talking about portrait of a graduate. And I wish they would have been able to sit here tonight and listen to our students because they nailed it in terms of putting specific experiences onto these different qualities that are connected to Port Graduate. The big idea is that when you graduate, we don't want you to just be really good at math and science and English and social studies, but we want you to have the types of experiences that you talked about to be um really skilled in those
049areas as you take those into those next steps of your life. And boy, uh, what a what a cool way to start the week. Just so proud listening to our students, um, and staff members at at Harris Hill Talk. Um, so I'll pause for a second to see if members of our team have questions or comments um, on either this morning, the classroom visits that they were able to experience or what they heard here this evening. So, members of our board, >> I just want to say it was a great way to start the morning to start our day and to end our day. So, thank you. And special call out to Lucy for being my tour guide today. appreciate that. [laughter] >> I guess I'll have to follow that. A thank you to Charlotte
050for being Adrian and I's tour guide. Uh we had a great experience in the fourth grade room today so that we saw an English lesson. Um and I think we'd all be better creative writers if we got to do that what the kids did today. So they all enjoyed a great AI type experience. So >> yeah, to connect to that point, Charlotte did an amazing job and uh my favorite part was when she said, "I wish we had this back in my day." [laughter] It was a collaborative writing program that her former teacher had just started using this year. And I I that was just such a powerful statement, as hilarious as it was. um because uh the the world is moving at such a rapid pace as Mr. Vicachio said, we're preparing children for
051jobs that don't exist yet. And so to see teachers keeping up with that and um selecting such really wonderful uh learning tools um to interact with the top dog mentors. It was just a wonderful visit. So thank you When it comes to um teaching and learning, Clarence likes to be at the front of the pack, the lead lead pack to slip in a little husky um reference. Um I wonder if you do me a favor. We have been visiting schools during the day for classroom visits for just over four years now. And every single time we do it, we always get a picture of our board of education and students. And guess what we forgot this morning? A picture of our board of education with students. And I wonder if we could take just a
052minute to move to the back screen if we had our student leaders from Harris Hill, if we had members of our board of education, and then Harris Hill faculty and staff were with us, if we can do a quick photo um and we'll share it back with this group because we're just so proud of of who you are as young people. So members of our board, if you'll join us back there and our Harris Huskies, if you'll move that way as well. report that's connected with our strategic plan. Um, as you know, we've spent the first four meetings of the school year going over the four pillars of our strategic plan and then having an indepth presentation that uh is connected to those different areas. Um, in your packets and on the uh website you
053will find a copy of our finalized strategic plan. Uh, it's something that typically in the fall we would go over in detail because we've done it in chunks though we won't do that tonight. I did want to take a couple minutes to just number one present you with a finalized copy of it because it does drive our work here in the district and then number two to briefly touch on those four different areas and highlight some things that we're particularly proud of. Um and to just provide a reminder that as we go into the year we should continue continue to see evidence that uh we're making meaningful growth in these four different areas. Um so as you're a member the first pillar of our strategic plan is the people part and it's titled people first
054always and it really focuses on creating and deepening an organizational culture where talented uh educators want to come grow and spend time and just to highlight three different things that uh are meaningful steps forward this year. Number one is that uh New York State has moved from its evaluation of teachers and principles to something called uh a steps model. Uh Dr. Overhold has worked with a district team to work with our CTA um and have a steps plan that really focuses on growth and it's uh rooted in goal setting and projectbased uh growth. And so it manages to balance a personalized approach with a team-based approach to growing as professionals. And so we're really proud of the work that's happening. Um and it's something that was developed in partnership with our Clarence Teachers Association. uh
055and as it turns out is becoming a model plan for Western New York. Um we also when we think about growing educators here in the district uh the board of education several years ago had talked about wanting to develop uh consistency among our buildings in a really thoughtful way of uh advancing educational growth and are proud to uh report on the work of our TOSA program and our curriculum office. Um, and it's a team that brings together on a regular basis teams of teachers to develop curricular resources, review assessment data, identify different uh systems of um targeted support for students, and it's something that really is for us by us. It relies on the experts here in the district uh to to make sure that we are consistently growing as educators. And then third and
056final um under this people first always category talking about growing our instructional coaching program. Uh Dr. Overhalt will be able to tell you in more detail about identifying really master classrooms of teachers who are skilled in different areas opening up their doors so that newer members of our faculty can go in, they can see different things in action, they can debrief and they can learn and grow. And a reminder that in some districts people might have to fly across the country to obser observe the experts. And here in Clarence, you just have to wander down the hall. And so really um excited about those local structures and resources that are helping to to grow the very best educators around. The second thing talks about learning for a changing world and it was on display tonight
057as we listen to our Harris Hill Huskys and we um hear what's going on in this very building. Um so we thank Mr. Bkacio colleagues and students again for being here. We also think about the work of our TOSA team. They have realigned how they work and what they focus on so that we can get ahead of this new state education initiative in a way that fits for our school community. And really, really proud of our high school team. They have become members of a Western New York community that does work on a weekly basis to identify uh different priority areas under the portrait of a graduate. They have presented to our leadership team on multiple occasions, to the high school faculty and staff on multiple occasions, to department chairs. they have uh had folks
058go out and talk uh with colleagues in in other buildings here in the district and really thinking about how we need to enhance different parts of our work here in Clarence. The third area is uh progress with purpose and that's taking a thoughtful um implementation to uh innovation and technology that was mentioned earlier today touring the AI programs that exist at UB and looking at partnerships that can strengthen what we do. Uh Mr. Priori had mentioned connecting not just Clarence with UB but also our region and I'm proud of the fact that we have our superintendence group our instructional expert group that is now working with UB uh to hold a meeting and a tour there so that we can think not just about strengthening what Clarence is doing but really being a leader in
059the region. Uh we also have recently held a half-day planning session with uh our AI integration team bringing together about 25 different experts to think critically about how we can move forward in a a thoughtful way in this area. So this is a team that focused on identifying beliefs uh in the first half day together and then we'll turn to piloting different programs, identifying expectations and talking about needed professional development. Uh the last thing in this area that we're really proud of is that this governance team uh has spent time working on their own learning in this area. Members have attended different learning sessions. Uh and we had um held an evening board retreat focused specifically on AI uh because the governance team knows that with its role here with regard to policy and resource
060allocation, we have to make sure that we're all in alignment as we move forward. So wanting to acknowledge the work that they're doing. And the last one is to focus on safety and belonging. Uh a couple meetings ago you heard from members of our school resource officer team. They are doing a great job moving us forward in a whole bunch of different uh safety related areas. Um but also looking at expanding mental health access, not just using our team here in Clarence, but securing different grant funds so that when a student or family is struggling, they can access mental health support free of cost if they're not able to provide uh whatever resources may be needed. And then the last thing is just to highlight something that appeared in a Friday communication last week and
061that's work of the family support center with regard to making our new families feel safe and welcome in the community. The demographics of ch of Clarence have changed interestingly over the last few years where in the summer months in particular, we have families move in from all over the world and really to sort of put ourselves in their shoes in terms of what may it be like to come to a new community, a new school district, not know many people, not know a lot of things that we may take for granted. And so the family support center has been on the front lines of uh making contact with new families with uh providing an optional support that or a survey that identifies support. They've put together on our website a really interesting handbook when you
062come to a new community or trying to get your um sea legs under you that you can use this as a as a helpful resource to point you in the right direction. And then they're just starting to host uh new to the neighborhood um community sessions where if you are new or newish to the Clarence Central School District community, you can meet you can come, you can meet people who've either spent a lot of time here or new to the community and you can feel that sense of uh of safety, belonging, and inclusion. And so we're really excited about the work that our family support center is doing. And again, tonight was meant to highlight some things in those different uh uh strategic planning areas and to thank the group uh for putting in the
063time and thought needed to really move us forward in these different areas. Any questions or comments on that tonight? All right. And last up is Avery Collins with our student body report. First of all, I would like to congratulate the parents varsity athletic team for their accomplishments. The girls varsity field hockey team, girls tennis team and boys soccer team won section 6 titles this past month. The boys varsity volleyball team also won a section six title and is competing in the state championship this upcoming weekend. Sophia Bonafi is fifth in the state championship for single drill tits. Diego qualified for New York State Federation Championships after placing well at the state championships. We are so proud of all of our athletes and applaud all of their hard work and put their work. At the high
064school, we held our annual food drive. This year, the high school collected over 1,000 canned and non-p perishable food items for the Clarence Food Pantry located right next to the high school and the Newstead food pantry. Heading into colder temperatures, the need for donating food has increased and high school students stepped up and supported those in need. As well, Lediew Elementary will be helping out in the community through projects at the food pantry, which will greatly benefit those involved. This week, the CHS drama club is putting on their annual fall play, Noise Is Off. This cast has been working hard and tirelessly to put this comedy together, and this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7 p.m., you can come to see the show. Please support these artists this weekend as they demonstrate their artistry and
065talent up on the stage. This past week, the Clarence High School and Middle School joined forces, the engineering clubs, for an egg drop. These high schoolers traveled over to CMS to work on a device for an egg so it does not break. This event was such a great experiences for students of all ages interested in technology and engineering and an amazing way for younger students to work with older students. The UV science night was held at the high school on the 14th for students in grades 3 through 5. This event put on by Clarence graduate and current UB student immersed Clarence students with STEM activities. This was such a fun night with science, crafts, and activities and was a great experience for all students involved. Eighth graders from the middle school took trip took trips
066to either Washington DC, Quebec, Canada, or parts of Western New York as a part of their annual eighth grade trip. This week-long trip was filled with fun activities and events and allowed students to explore new cities and cultures. This trip allowed students to travel with other classmates and have a great time during their last year at the middle school. Students at the middle school and the unified art class took a field trip to Brothers of Mercy for a fun event for residents and students alike. This trip allowed students to connect with older generations and create beautiful all art all while creating memories. This past Tuesday, November 11th, we celebrated Veterans Day to celebrate the people who keep us safe and provide for our community. Harrisville students celebrated this holiday by bringing in veterans of all
067ages to the school and having an assembly. These children learn the service and dedication that these veterans provided to our country and remember those lost while in service. The high school leadership club and future teachers of America traveled to Sunni Jio for their annual college field trip. These students toured the college and met with Jennio opportunities for leadership develop program and the school of education. This allowed students to meet with college students in the same field as them and allow them to learn more about their future careers and opportunities. Finally, this past month, the CHS rocket team participated in the MOG regional competition. Led by their captain, Ellen Weiss, the team excelled and placed first in the competition. This club is made up of around a dozen students and participates in competitions throughout the year
068in hopes of making nationals in Washington, DC. >> Thank you, Avery. And Avery, good luck this weekend in the play. Can't wait. >> That's it, Mr. Buglei for reports tonight. >> Thank you, Dr. Frame. We have no public comments for the public comment session, so I'm going to move on from that. Um, doc Dr. Scrupka, Finance. >> Thank you. Today I'm asking for uh acceptance of the financial reports for September 1st along with the check uh check warrant and bills. Approval of an extra uh classroom activity. So we have been running an ensemble club at the high school. So this is to formalize a club that had already been meeting informally. Approval of a shared agreement for girls wrestling. Um, I'm asking that we create a shared team with Irakcoy Central for the starting the
0692526 school year. Um, approval of a budget transfer to provide contractual nursing services um, due to the nursing shortage. Approval to dispose of some music instruments that are beyond repair. And finally, approval of a grant for safety supplies of up to $5,000 through Perma and a company called New Peg. >> Thank you. Any comments or questions on items F1 through F7? Hearing none, I'll take a motion to approve items F1 through F7. I'll make a motion. >> Thank you, Dennis. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Trisha. All those in favor? >> I motion passes. Um, Mr. Michelle, instructional >> instructional this evening, we have an amended memo from Mr. Smith that was previously approved. Our prior appointments this month are really we're trying to bolster our substitute list as quickly as
070possible to provide coverage each day appointments. We have some winter sports positions, a regular substitute clearance center. P4 is a salary adjustment that did not appear in the previous board meeting. P5 is approval of tenure for the person that you reviewed last month. P6 presentation compensation and then P7 changes to our sub sub. >> Thank you, Mr. Michelle. Any questions on items P1 through P7? hearing. None. I'll take a motion to approve items P1 through P7. >> Make a motion. >> Thank you, Mike. Do I have a second? >> I'll second. >> Thank you, Adrian. All those in favor? >> I. The motion passes. Mr. Michelle, non-instructional. >> Uh, non instructional. We had a change in the start date for an employee. Also, an amended retirement date. It should actually read January 26, 2026 rather
071than 25. Resignations. We had two aids resign. P10 has one reassignment of one of our current employees, but then also again this month, the New York helps program has added some titles. So, we're now putting those people through that program. Prior appointments, we had one aid and one monitor appointments this evening, one laborer and one cleaner. And P13 is changes to our substitute list. >> Thank you. Any questions? Items P8 through P13. Hearing none, I'll take a motion to approve items P8 through P13. >> I'll make a motion. >> Thank you, Adrian. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Trisha. All those in favor? >> I The motion passes. Miss Shiska, special needs and student activities. >> The committee on special education met for 10 days is requesting the approval of the
072recommended services for 28 students. The committee on preschool special education met for 4 days and is requesting the approval of the recommended services for 13 students. >> Thank you. Any questions? items S1 and S2 hearing. None. I'll take a mo motion to approve items S1 and S2. >> I'll make the motion. >> Thank you, Trisha. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Don. All those in favor? >> I The motion passes. We have no deort board development policy today. The schedule upcoming meetings is in your packet as is upcoming events. And I'll take a motion to adjurnn. I'll take the motion. >> Thank you, Dennis. Do I have a second? I'll >> second. >> Thank you, Adrian. All those in favor? I. The motion passes.