HAMBURG, NY 14075Winter 2016

Frontier News

INSIDE THIS EDITIONSuperintendent’s Message ..................2Budget Vote Timeline ............................2Welcome to Frontier ..............................3Points of Pride .........................................4High School ...........................................5-6Middle School ...........................................7Elementary News ................................8-9Local Service Clubs ..............................10Wall of Fame Nomination ..................11Bulletin Page .........................................12

Congratulations2015 Star Students!

The 2015-16 Hamburg Chamber of Commerce Student Star Award recipients from Frontier High School are: standing left to right, Jared Hoerner, Zachary Jezioro, Ally Gates, Suleiman Qsouse and Joshua Meyers. Sitting, Edward Dinkel, Olivia Figiel, Alycia Meek and Kendra Lampke.

Weekly E-Blasts!Frontier Central Schools participates in weekly E-Blast. This system will give the district the ability to send information about school activities and events in a timely manner to your email address, a text to your cell or both. Simply go to our web site at www.frontier.wnyric.org, scroll down the Announcements on the Home page to the News image, click on the link to add your information.

Please remember to check your Spam folder regularly; E-Blast information could be waiting there for you!

See page 10 for more information about Star Students and other local service clubs involved with Frontier Central Schools.

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“When I was in school”…(Mayville CSD 1970s-‘80s)… how often have we thought or said those words? School in the ‘80s introduced me to the “computer”; mechanical drawing was done in pencil; everyone was in the school play; and the prom was in the high school gymnasium.

Also in the ‘70s and ‘80s our education was organized by structures and systems based on what we now know are biological falsehoods or myths. Honors, Regents, and local diploma types organized classes. Grades were based on the “bell-shaped” curve in that class grade results

should have very few students with grades above 90 and below 65 with the vast majority of grades in the 80s. The belief was that a person’s IQ was fixed at birth and that it is “normal” to have a few “really smart” people, a few “not smart” people, with most people being “normal or average”.

Thanks in part to the advancements in brain imagery over the past 20 years, we know that many of these 20th century “facts” are untrue. IQ is not fixed at birth and indeed can improve, most dramatically throughout early childhood and adolescence.

The mind, like the body, improves the more you exercise it. Similar to getting physically fit, the mind’s journey to fitness starts at a place that will tax the brain enough to grow a little at a time. In order for a non-runner to run a marathon, he cannot start his first day of training by running 10 miles; it is similar for the brain. Almost all people are physically capable of running a marathon; they just need different training rules based on their individual needs. The exact same thing is true for the human brain. Every person with a healthy brain can do calculus; write with meaning and purpose; understand chemistry; and perform vocational skills. Teachers and schools that recognize this truism have what is called a “growth mindset”. Frontier educators recognize more than ever that every student has the biological capacity for success and we are committed to a growth mindset education.

A “growth mindset” recognizes the biological reality that all students can learn and that intelligence is NOT fixed.

Respectfully, Bret

Superintendent’s Message

Message from theSuperintendent

Frontier Central School District 2016 Budget Vote Timeline

Activity DateNominating Petitions Available for Board Candidates (from District Clerk) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1First Publication of Legal Notice of School Budget Hearing & Vote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 29-April 2Applications for Absentee Ballots Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 4Board of Education Adopts 2015-16 Proposed Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 19 Second Publication of Legal Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 14Board Candidate Petitions Due to District Clerk by 5:00 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 18Budget Newsletter Mailed to Residents & Available on Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 292016-17 Tax Report Card on SED Web Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 25Third Publication of Legal Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 28Budget Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May 3Meet the Candidates Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May 9Absentee Ballot Applications to be Mailed Back to District Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 10Six-Day Budget Notice Mailed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 11Final Publication of Legal Notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 12Absentee Ballot Applications for In-Person Ballots Due . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 16Annual Budget Vote & Board Election . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May 17Absentee Ballots Due by 5:00 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 17

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James Hourihan Head Bus Driver, Transportation

Mr. Jim Hourihan left North Collins Central School District as their transportation supervisor and joined Frontier this past October. He feels that focusing on driver skills/

training will result in a mutual rapport between driver, student and parents. He knows the importance of how a bus driver is involved in a child’s school years, being thee first and last school representative a student sees.

Jim is impressed with the kindness and thoughtfulness Frontier drivers display. He sees drivers go out of their way to help others and the camaraderie with each other.

When Jim is not at the bus garage, you might find him strapping on speed skates and doing a few laps around the ice!

Michele RokesSchool Nurse, Pinehurst Elementary

Mrs. Michele Rokes initially worked as a R.N. with autistic children, and then worked as a school nurse for 14 years in central Massachusetts before moving to Lake View with her husband,

daughter and two rescue dogs.

Michele looks forward to supporting the children, families, and staff of the Pinehurst community, having a positive attitude and a big smile everyday. Michele knew her position at Pinehurst was a perfect fit when a kindergarten student who was a frequent visitor in her office, was leaving to return to class, then turned to blew a kiss to her!

Mrs. Deanne Lester Assistant Principal, Middle School

Mrs. Deanne Lester joined the administration team and is eager to meet the needs of students and support the faculty and staff. She has an abundance of

experience with data analysis and Data Driven Instruction. She also served as an Instructional coach of a Pre-K – 8 building in the Buffalo Public Schools, along with teaching eight years in the Kenmore and Town of Tonawanda school districts.

Mrs. Lester received her teaching certification from Buffalo State College and her master’s at Niagara University. When asked what she is proud of, Deanne replied, “As a leader, I am proud to be a part of an incredible district that provides an amazing educational experience, with high levels of academic success for all of their students.”

Jason Whipple School Lunch Manager

How much work does it take to feed 4,892 students? Just ask Mr. Jason Whipple, who joined us from Gowanda Central School District this past summer. A chef by trade, Jason would

like to establish a culinary team here at Frontier, thus stimulating awareness in the culinary field as a career choice.

For Jason, serving healthy and delicious food to Frontier students and staff is a priority, and he would like to see Frontier become a recipient of the Healthy U.S. School Challenge Award within in the next few years.

Frontier Welcomes New Administrators and Staff

Welcome New Administrators and StaffDeniz Cetinkaya Student Data Manager

Implementing data for all of Frontier students is a daunting task, but Ms. Deniz Cetinkaya is ready and capable to fulfill the responsibility. She joins Frontier from the University of Buffalo

Department of Family Medicine, which is a state-wide organization.

Ms. Cetinkaya welcomes the opportunity to streamline Frontier’s data in a cohesive, efficient manner and meeting fellow colleagues.

Deniz graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing, and enjoys coaching cheerleading and raising a new puppy.

Confidential Hotline Frontier Central School District has recently implemented a Confidential Hotline. Any member of the Frontier School Community may report any and all acts and/or threats of violence, bullying, threats of suicide, or students employing self-injurious behaviors to the school hotline.

Frontier High School Hotline 926-1802

Frontier Middle School Hotline 926-1803

Big Tree Elementary Hotline 926-1804

Blasdell Elementary Hotline 926-1806

Cloverbank Elementary Hotline 926-1807

Pinehurst Elementary Hotline 926-1808

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Points of Pride

Points of Pride2015-16 Reward SchoolOn September 8, 2015, the Board of Education proudly commended Mr. Jeffrey Sortisio and the Faculty and Staff of Frontier Central Senior High School for being designated by the NYS Education Department as a Reward School for the 2015-16 School Year.

Tenure for TeachersThe Board of Education celebrated the tenure of the following teachers:

Beth Selig, library media specialist; Louis Shafer, music teacher; and Caitlin Ruszczyk, special education teacher.left to right: Caitlin Ruszczyk; Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe; Board of Education Member Patrick Boyle; Beth Selig; Board of Education Member David Patton; and Louis Shafer.

Frontier Modified Football Team On November 17, 2015, the Board of Education proudly commended Jim Steffen, Terry Ostrander, Kevin Sheffield, Mark Brinkel, Dave Dorr, Brian Steffen and the entire Frontier Modified Football Team, for their sportsmanlike and compassionate behavior toward a player on an opposing football team. Left side bottom to top, Austin Lippert, Manager; Ty Webb, Captain; Jim Steffen, Head Coach; Mark Brinkel, Volunteer Coach; Terry Ostrander, Assistant Coach; Patrick Doyle, Board of Education Member. Right side bottom to top; Alex Lippert, Captain; Alan Beyer, Captain; Brian Steffen, Volunteer Coach; Dave Dorr, Volunteer Coach; Kevin Sheffield, Assistant Coach; Martin Lalka, Board of Education member.

Maggie Regan The Board of Education proudly commended 5th grader, Maggie Regan, for her unselfish role in fundraising for various charities, including Guiding Eyes for the Blind. For the past four years, Maggie has chosen a charity to collect presents for instead of receiving traditional gifts on her birthday. Maggie Ryan holding her certificate with Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe; Board of Education Members Thomas Best Jr. and David Patton.

WNY UNITED Against Drug & Alcohol Abuse Inc. AwardsOn December 15, 2015, the Board of Education proudly commended 8th grader Emily Errington for earning 1st place for her artwork; 6th grader James Gorman for earning 1st place for his poetry; Kelsey Bodkin, for earning 2nd place for her poetry; 4th grader Makayla Toole and 6th grader Nicholas Schulz for earning 3rd place; and 6th grader Joshua Walters for earning an Honorable Mention for his poetry in a contest sponsored by WNY UNITED Against Drug & Alcohol Abuse Inc.

Each year, students are invited from all over WNY to participatein the Art & Poetry Contest. Inviting young people to engage in prevention celebration messages is a key element in encouraging youth to choose positive, healthy habits and lifestyles. These poems and artwork allow us to engage them by supporting their creation of positive messages. Winning submissions were displayed at the Erie County Fairgrounds in December.

Front row left right: Joshua Walters, James Gorman, Kelsey Bodkin and Emily Errington. Back row: Davis Podulski, Board of Education Member; David Patton, Board of Education Member; Linda Dansa, Blasdell principal; Patricia Applegate, Middle School teacher and Ryan Sikorski, Middle School principal.

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High School

NYSSMA MusiciansThe following students represented Frontier High School at the New York State School Music Association Conference All-State Festival in Rochester, in December 2015. The students were selected to participate in the NYSSMA Honor Ensembles by audition, which took place last spring.

Left to right: Katie Adams, bass; Ben Szymanski, tenor saxophone; and Connor Swaenepoel, tuba.

Senior High Area All State Music Festival The following Frontier High School musicians represented Frontier at the Senior High Area All State Music Festival being held at SUNY Fredonia November 20 and 21, 2015. The students where selected by solo auditions last spring to perform in one of the honor ensembles that comprise students from Zone One, which is made up of the four Western New York Counties.

Front Row: Grace Sipos, Lauren Clifford, Ketelyn Sciolino, Micheala Reed, Dana D’Orlando, Alyssa Foley, Jenna Eschner, Nicole Burns, and Amanda Ruiz. Row 2: Jessica Jonczyk, Nick Ceccarelli, Natalie Bojanowski, Ben Szymanski, Carleen Christner,Jeremy Jonczyk, Dan Priore, Zach Morrisey, Drew Ashbury, Emily Cecala, Joe Russi, Katie Adams, Connor Swaenepoel.

Junior High Area All StateFrontier High School musicians participated in the Junior High Area All State honor ensembles held November 6 and 7, 2015, at Akron Central School. The students in grades 7-9 were chosen by solo auditions last spring. The ensembles were composed of students from Zone One, which is made up of the four western New York counties.

Kneeling left to right: Alea Gugino, McKenna Staruch, Lauren Koepel, Dan Fuitko and Thomas McGrath. Standing left to right: Evan Allen, John England, Noah Webster, Matt D’Orlando, Allison Andrzejczak and Ben Renzoni. Missing from photo: Francis Slazyk

Frontier National Honor Society Donates WarmthFor a third year in a row, the Frontier National Honor Society sponsored a “Warm Clothing Drive”. All the elementary schools, along with the middle school and high school, collected outerwear from their students and families. The items are donated to Every Person Influences Children, which distributes the warm clothing to more than 200 men, women and children in the Buffalo area.

EPIC is committed to supporting families with the challenges they face in our current economic environment. EPIC helps empower families to give their children the life and opportunities that many of us take for granted. The response from the Frontier community was overwhelming. The National Honor Society would like to say that, because of your warm hearts and kindness, we have helped so many in need be warm. Thank you for your warmth and generosity.

Front row: Alysa Cole, Justin Zwawa, Brien Bottstine and Caitlin Heffler. Back row: Jared Hoerner, Tyler Bielac, Abby Schumacher, Hayley Mack, and Nicole Bur.

The Golden Apple AwardThe Southtowns Teacher Center awards The Golden Apple award to a teacher or staff member nominated by one of their colleagues. Congratulations to the latest Golden Apple Award recipient, Frontier High School English teacher Mrs. Jolene Blood. The award is given to someone who takes time to share expertise, brightens up the day with their positive attitude, and who deserves a bit of recognition.

The anonymous submission for nomination described Jolene as: “An incredible English teacher and inspires her students while they learn to appreciate literature. She is approachable and has given her time during planning periods and after school to provide support for any student who asks. Jolene has integrated new technology that makes her lessons fun and engaging”.

Mrs. Jolene Blood accepting her Golden Apple Award from High School Principal, Mr. Jeff Sortisio.

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Middle School News

Giving Middle School StudentsThe Frontier Middle School Student Council has done it again! The school held two holiday fundraisers, Snowflake Flurry and Hats For The Holidays, and a generous tally of $1,752 was raised! Students purchased snowflakes for $1 to decorate their lockers, and donated a dollar to wear a hat on designated days. This money was used to purchase gift cards for families in need to buy gifts for under their tree. In addition, a gift card from Aldi was given to each family to help purchase a meal for the holidays.

Let’s not forget the annual middle school tradition of the Giving Tree, ornaments are placed on the giving tree with a wish list of anonymous students of FMS and their family members in need during the holiday season. Students, faculty, staff members and parents who shopped from the wish lists, an abundance of gifts were returned wrapped and ready for delivery.

Because of the generosity of all of Santa’s helpers at Frontier Middle School, it was a Merry Christmas for many Frontier families.

Back Row left to right: Mr. Tom Cullen, Social Worker; Mr. Chris Lotocki, 6th grade teacher; and Mr. Mike Eagan, Guidance Counselor. Front Row: Mr. Ryan Sikorski, Principal; Mrs. Amy Pecoraro, Guidance Counselor; Mrs. Laura Klein, Student Council Advisor; Mrs. Kate English, Student Council Advisor; and Mrs. Kim Barry, Student Council Advisor.

Frontier Middle School Sends Smile To MilitaryThis past Halloween, the Middle School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society collected an amazing amount of Halloween candy from the students, 169 pounds! The candy was donated to Winning Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, which pays $1 per pound. The dentist works with Packs4Patriots and the send packages to servicemen and women. The National Junior Honor Society received a check for $169 that will be used to purchase supplies to make care packages for Chemo Patients at Roswell Park.

Rockin’ Lockin’The Middle School held their annual Rockin Lockin dance, on January 22. The event was sponsored by the Student Council and the PTA assisted with providing pizza, soda and chaperoning. There was lots of energy with dancing, karaoke and an inflatable obstacle course. In addition to the basic ticket cost, the obstacle course and karaoke cost $1.00 extra each for the entire night to raise additional funds for charity. The proceeds from Rockin Lockin were shared between Roswell Park Memorial Hospital and the Cerebral Palsy Lemonade Stand. The grand total raised was more than $400, and a Rockin good time was enjoyed by more than 275 students in attendance!

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Elementary News

JANUARY 2016

Frontier’s Terrific KidsWe wish to congratulate the Frontier Terrific Kids in Grades 4 and 5 that are honored each month by the Kiwanis Club of Hamburg as being Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Responsible, Inclusive, Friendly, Impeccable and Caring.

DECEMBER 2015 FEBRUARY 2016

Big Tree ElementaryKindergarten Performance Shines Holiday Spirit Taking a cue from the classic animated Christmas specials, “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer”, Big Tree Elementary kindergarten students gave an adorable performance for fellow students on Wednesday, December 16, with another performance for their families on Thursday. Kindergarten students in Mrs. Osmanski, Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. Mattioli and Ms. Bueme class performed their special parts of the program. Each class had a theme and worked on their special costumes, Mrs. Osmanski’s the Snowman, Mrs. Robert’s the Heat Misers, Mrs. Mattioli’s the Cold Misers and Ms. Bueme and Mrs. Labedz the Reindeer.

BlasdellGrade 4Jillian LocherAshley MichalekTaylor NicholoffGrade 5Joseph DayerAlexis GarmongOlivia GwittWill Renzoni

Big TreeGrade 4 Alicia ErtelOlivia GleasonNicholas GonzalezJosiah PattersonRyan SlagerGrade 5Eric LanningNicholas McBrideAlexis Schultz

BlasdellGrade 4Anna Feldman Miranda GelyonAshley McGrathMadison PapucciGrade 5Mason McGrathSamantha PetronskyPaige Walczak

Big TreeGrade 4Olivia BattagliaLily Caputo-MuellerKelly O’DonnellAbigal Olejniczak Makayla Rowe Grade 5Shane AllenGabrielle DubervilleMatthew Farinacci

BlasdellGrade 4Alexandria BurketZachary CyeBrandon WillardEsolina WojnowiczGrade 5Hillary Fuller Ella GovenettioMorgan Gubala

Big TreeGrade 4Xavier Netherland-El Thomas LittleJesse NelsonThomas WrinnGrade 5Brendan ChengJosephine GeorgeRyan LucasEric Wittman

CloverbankGrade 4Nathan HohlAdrianna HornbergerRyleigh O’BrienMorgan StichtGrade 5Chase HarboldOwen MulderigAidan O’BrienEmma Vicaretti

PinehurstGrade 4 Nathan GonsiorekTeagan McCarthyJoseph PanzarellaJenna SzczepanikTyler ZentGrade 5Owen AllaireMadelyn FilipiakAva KozakIsabella MaloneySantiago Ward

CloverbankGrade 4Meriel BoothbySabrina DiPasqua Kendall Kaufman Chloe RodriguezGrade 5Joseph Gonzalez-

ValentinMegan ReigleJordan RoneyMirabel Sasiela

PinehurstGrade 4 Tamirat AllecaCarson BalesterHana CarneyCourtney KoprevichMcKenna O’HaraGrade 5Mikayla CrossAiden GarlandElla PietrzakSavannah RogersAlexander Schickling

CloverbankGrade 4Carter BovaAlec BrotzerAbigail NormanAlexa NormanGrade 5Chloe FisherElijah SoaresBrian WoodsLydia Wozniak

PinehurstGrade 4Scott Barton Allyssa Eckam Ava Imiola Emily Patton Emily Whitaker Grade 5Makayla EaganHannah EatonKevin HerrAidan LitwiniakMolly Oar

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Holiday GenerosityBlasdell Student Government ran a successful food drive to support Union Presbyterian Church Food Pantry on Lake Avenue in Blasdell. Representatives from Student Government made daily announcements to their fellow students each morning encouraging compassion and sharing for their community and those less fortunate. Within two weeks, 17 full boxes were donated to the Union Presbyterian Church food pantry.

Blasdell Elementary students and staff once again demonstrated their generosity and kind-heartedness to residents in the community.

Elementary School News

New York State Education Department Visits Big Tree ElementaryOn September 29, 2015, Big Tree Elementary had the pleasure of welcoming two visitors from the New York State Education Department regarding the Reward Schools Program. Big Tree Elementary was selected to receive the Reward School Dissemination Grant for the 2015-2016 school year. Mr. Robert Husain and Ms. Martha Scanu, from the Office of Accountability School and District Review Unit, visited Big Tree to meet the teachers who wrote the grants, and to tour classrooms getting a perspective of the spirit of the building. An assembly took place to honor Big Tree’s special visitors. Principal Joanne Saniewski reintegrated the Golden Rule, “Smiles go for miles and miles, and more contagious than measles and mumps!”

Big Tree Elementary was eligible to apply for the grant based on student performance in both the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 school years. Over the course of four months, grant writers highlighted the best practices at Big Tree Elementary to showcase student success. The grant awarded $50,000 for Big Tree to refine and enhances its best practices, with an additional $25,000 to mentor low-performing schools this year.

Left to right: Ms. Martha Scanu and Mr. Robert Husain from the NYS Education Department; Big Michelle Kelly, teacher; Miss Joanne Saniewski, Big Tree Principal; Dr. Mary Ann Costello, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction; Jackie Gow, teacher; and Dr. Bret Apthorpe, Superintendent.

Front row kneeling left to right: Madison Papucci, Zoey Chandler, Mikayla Sullivan, and Rosie Zarrabal. Back row left to right: Grant Schwarzott, Joey Dayer, Miranda Gelyon, Greg Ulak-Janish,Colin Adrian, Grace Gorczyca, Emma Gordon, Melissa Sawyer, Anna Feldman, and Zach Cye. Missing from photo, Mason McGrath

Senator Marc Panepinto Visits Blasdell ElementaryFourth grade students in Mrs. Dorothy Mayle and Mrs. Anne Seifert classes enjoyed learning what life is like as a New York State Senator. Friday, January 15, Senator Marc Panepinto stopped by the Blasdell Elementary library to award certificates to the students for their participation in a writing contest.

Senator Panepinto spent time to explain why he became a senator and what his job entails. The students were eager to ask interesting questions such as; “Do you make the laws in New York State, Why are you a Senator, What do you do all day?” Senator Panepinto took the time to fully answer each question and was impressed with what strong learners these fourth grade students are.

Senator Marc Panepinto sits with Blasdell fourth grade students explaining New York State government and answering their questions.

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Elementary School News

Cloverbank ElementaryKindergarten Students Sing for NeighborsWhat a delightful sight to see during the holidays: children singing Christmas carols to their neighbors by Cloverbank Elementary School. Kindergarten students bundled up and delighted their neighbors with smiles and songs reflecting the Christmas spirit. The children sang a few favorite carols, gave a friendly wave and moved on to the next house making the Cloverbank neighborhood filled with Christmas spirit!

Fun In The SnowPre-kindergarten students in Mrs. Teresa Yeager’s morning class, took advantage of a perfect, sunny morning to bundle up, take in some fresh air and enjoy having fun at their playground.

Angels in the making!

Sunshine and Smiles! Students took a break from playing to pose for a photo with their teacher, Mrs. Teresa Yeager, left, and teacher aide, Mrs. Carol Schanbacher.

Pinehurst Elementary

Generosity From Pinehurst Girls On the RunThe Girls On the Run mission statement says it all: We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. Girls On the Run is an international program established in 1996 in Charlotte, North Carolina by Molly Barker. The Pinehurst chapter evolved in the fall of 2013 and in 2014, Middle school teacher Mrs. Patty O’Shei, began coaching with her daughter Bryanna as the assistant coach, to share a love for running and living a healthy lifestyle with her youngest daughter, Tayrn.

Girls On the Run teaches young girls in grades 3-5, leadership skills through running. Each session has a lesson based on character and leadership skills, which is then incorporated into their running. The girls build up the amount of time they run each session to prepare for a 5k run at Delaware Park.

Pinehurst girls completed a Community Impact project in October 2015 for Buddy’s Second Chance Dog Rescue. The students and staff were asked to donate items such as collars, biscuits and dog toys. The girls wrote messages for morning announcements and took turns saying them; made posters; checked donation bins; and delivered a generous amount to Buddy’s Second Chance Dog Rescue volunteer organization.

The program has amazing results! Some of the girls who were shy became leaders and self-advocates; some who started out as slow runners become some of the fastest or able to run the longest distances. All the girls cheer each other on, come together as a team and support one another.

Front row left to right: Kylie Sikorski, Lea Philarom, Taryn O’Shei, Kate Cosen, Grace Schwarzkopf and Lily Miller. Back row: Andi Devlin, Emily Buil, Quinn Callahan, Addison Kumiega, Riley Zglinicki, Anna Erickson, Samantha Bella and Maddie Eisenhut.

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Thank You! To These Local Service Clubs

UNICEF Service Project The 5th grade students at Pinehurst collected money for UNICEF this past October. The collection ran for more than two weeks throughout the end of the month. Some of the students went trick-or-treating for donations, while others collected from family and friends. In addition, students from other grade levels donated money.

A grand total of $1, 326.90 was collected! The students would like to thank everyone in the school and throughout the community who helped them to make a positive difference in the lives of children throughout the world.

Pinehurst Elementary

Front row left to right: Ava Nowak, Nicholas Eckhert, Cameron Jones, Morgan Pereira, Zeila Sabio, Ethan Shaver, and Pinehurst Principal, Mrs. Jen Makowski. Back row: Drew Ahmed, Jacob Bush, Danny Feeley, Kara Lippacher, Ava Kozak, and Bennett Heeter.

Hamburg Chamber of Commence - Star Students The Hamburg Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes students who have remarkable character. These students don’t have to think about being kind, helping out, and supporting others because they do that every day. A dinner honoring the students will take place at Illio’s DiPaolo’s Restaurant on February 11.The purpose of the event is to recognize many of the outstanding Hamburg area students who significantly impact their school or community. Students are selected for their creativity, communication skills, work ethic, perseverance, and wide range of other character traits that shape them into productive and committed members of the business world and our community.The 2015-16 Hamburg Chamber of Commerce Student Star Award recipients from Frontier High School are: Edward Dinkel, Joshua Meyers, Kendra Lampke, Olivia Figiel, Sulieman Qsouse, Zach Jezioro, Ally Gates, Jared Hoerner and Alycia Meek.The Student Star awards are given to about 25 students per year from our community high schools. Representatives from each school actively participates on the Education Committee through the Hamburg Chamber and nominates students based on their ethics and actions in helping others. The Hamburg Chamber of Commence awarded three scholarships last June to graduating seniors. A dinner honoring the students will take place at Illio’s DiPaolo’s Restaurant on February 11.

Kiwanis Club – Serving the Children of the WorldOne Community at a Time Terrific Kids - Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Responsible, Inclusive, Friendly, Impeccable and Caring. For more than two decades, Kiwanis Club of Hamburg has been recognizing and honoring 4th and 5th graders from our four elementary schools each month. This is a student recognition program that promotes character development, self-esteem and perseverance. Students work with their teacher to establish goals to improve behavior, peer relationships, attendance or schoolwork and to reach their goal during a specific time period. All students reaching their goals are recognized as Terrific Kids.

The Town of Hamburg Lions Club Tip Off Tournament – recently held its 17th annual Tip Off Tournament, a boys varsity and junior varsity basketball tourney that takes place over four days. Since the beginning of the event, the Lions Club has raised thousand of dollars to fund scholarships. Approximately $10,000 was raised which will be used to offer scholarships to local high school students looking to pursue secondary education.Reaching out to youth through wholesome athletic activity, with the hope that this will lead to personal academic success, continues to be an important goal of the Hamburg Lions. The Town of Hamburg Lions Club also regularly supports the Town of Hamburg’s Youth Engaged In Service students with financial assistance earmarked towards enhancing the programs and activities that “YES” students regularly participate in.The Lions Club of Hamburg awarded 11 Scholarships last June to graduating seniors.

Rotary Club The Rotary Club of Hamburg celebrates its 8th year of sponsoring Warm the Children, one of the most beloved service projects within the Hamburg community. Some children just simply need warm winter clothing and the Rotary Club of Hamburg is proud to help make that happen! Members of the Rotary Club of Hamburg and the Town of Hamburg Lions Club are extremely grateful to the many donors who helped allow the Warm the Children program to assist approximately 370 needy children in acquiring new winter clothing.The Rotary Club of Hamburg also awarded three scholarships last June to graduating seniors.

Frontier News __________________________________________________________________________________________ 11

Frontier Seeks Nominees For Athletic Wall Of Fame

Athletic Wall of Fame NomineesThe Frontier Central Athletic Department is accepting 2016 nominations for consideration for induction into the Athletic Wall of Fame. Those selected will be inducted at the Annual Academic/Athletic Awards Program at the High School in June.

If you are aware of a Frontier graduate who should be considered, based upon the criteria outlined below, please forward the information, along with your name, address and phone number, to Richard Gray, Frontier Central High School, 4432 Bay View Road, Hamburg, New York 14075, by March 7th. A one-page biography of the nominee must be included, along with the information from his or her college and other sports and/or community accomplishments.

Criteria:

• Minimum of six (6) years post graduation from Frontier High School.

• Distinguished himself/herself in athletics/sportsmanship/citizenship at Frontier Central.

• Distinguished himself/herself in athletics at the college/professional level.

• Through his or her professional career, has been a contributing citizen to the community and country.

Honorary Members to the Athletic Wall of FameAn Honorary member is one who has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and support of the school and who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the schools’ interscholastic athletic and/or intramural program.

Criteria:

• Minimum of one year of termination of service at Frontier before being nominated.

• Contributed to the Frontier Central interscholastic and/or intramural program as a coach, administrator or in another capacity.

• Through his or her professional career, has been a contributing citizen to the community and country.

My Nominee for Athletic Wall of FameNominee’s Name ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nominee’s Address _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nominator Information:Name _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Superintendent of SchoolsDr. Bret Apthorpe

2014-15 Board of EducationJanet MacGregor Plarr, President

Martin Lalka, Vice-presidentLarry J. Albert

Thomas Best, Jr.Patrick Boyle David Patton

Davis PodkulskiFrontier News, a publication of the Board of

Education, will be published for distribution in September, May and July. In November and February the newsletter will be available electronically on the

district web site at www.frontier.wnyric.org. The newsletters are designed to disseminate

information, as well as to celebrate the success of individuals and programs that support

the District’s mission goals.

Public Relations Office: (716) 926-1798Photos By: Susan Melski

Editor: Susan MelskiVolunteer: Nancy-Pat Scanlon

Design by: Erie 1 BOCES

Frontier Central District NewsPublished by the

Board of EducationFrontier Central Schools

5120 Orchard Avenue, Hamburg, NY 14075

(Non-Profit Organization)

U.S. PostagePAID

Hamburg, NYPermit No. 92

Bulletin Board

Registration for Universal Pre-Kindergarten ProgramPre-registration will begin March 1 thru March 31, 2016 for youngsters who will be 4 years old on or before December 1, 2016. Parents are asked to call the Frontier Registration Office at 926-1795 to enter their children into the lottery to secure a slot. The lottery will be conducted in April.

Character Council of WNYDecember 2015Thriftiness vs. FaintheartednessThriftiness is allowing myself and others to spend only what is necessary.

January 2016 Availability vs. Self-centerednessAvailability is making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I serve.

February 2016Deference vs. RudenessDeference is limiting my freedom so that I do not offend the tastes of those around me.

Mark Your Calendars to “Spring Ahead” Sunday, March 13,

Daylight Savings Time Begins!

12th Annual Festival of the ArtsApril 2, 2016

At the HUB Youth Center4999 McKinley Pkwy, Hamburg

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.