OctOber 2015

InsIde ThIs Issue

dIsTrIcT news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 2 - 6hIgh school news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 7 & 8MIddle school news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9 & 10news froM BurTon sTreeT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 10school conTacTs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12

Mrs. Gifford and Mrs. Turner Selected as Teacher of the Year, and Staff Person of the Year Award Recipients!

On Wednesday, September 2nd, 2015, Mr. Matt Reilly, Superin-tendent of Schools announced to the faculty and staff at the first general session of the new school year the winners of the 2015 Teacher of the Year Award and Staff Person of the Year Award. Congratulations to Mrs. Sharon Gifford, the 2015 Teacher of the Year, and to Mrs. Lou Ann Turner, the 2015 Staff Person of the Year Award recipient. Both award winners submitted to the Blue and Gold Newsletter answers to several interview questions. Please enjoy their comments below.

Mrs. Sharon Gifford, 2015 Teacher of the Year

High School Attended: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cazenovia Central Graduation Year: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1974College Attended Undergraduate: . . . . . . . . . . . SUNY at CortlandYears attended: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1974-1978Major: . . . . . . . Elementary Education N-6, Reading ConcentrationCollege Attended Graduate/Masters: . . . . . . . . . SUNY at CortlandMajor: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elementary Education

Where did you complete your student teaching?

I completed my student teaching through SUNY at Cortland with placements at New Woodstock School (Cazenovia Central) and Enders Road Elementary (Fayetteville-Manlius).

What activities (sports, clubs, jobs, etc.) you were you involved in as a high school student and college student?

I was a member of the Cazenovia Central Future Teachers of America - F.T.A. Members were able to have scheduled time to as-sist teachers in their classrooms. I was placed in first grade class-rooms. I was a member of The National Honor Society at Cazeno-via Central. As a college student, I was a member of Kappa Delta Pi - an international honor society in the field of education.

Where was your first teaching position? What did you teach? Did you work elsewhere before being hired as an employee at Cazenovia?

My first teaching assignment in 1978 was teaching in a remedial reading lab for 5th, 6th & 7th graders. In January 1980, I began teach-ing reading (whole classroom) at the 6th grade level.

When did you start teaching/working at Cazenovia?

In September, 1978

When you started working at Cazenovia, who were some of the teachers that also started around the same time you did?

Mrs. Deanna Abbey

Please describe five moments as a teacher that you will never forget? Why?

• The moment when a developing young reader has that “aha” moment and he/she is on their way to a world of adventure in print.

• The moment when a former student comes to my classroom door and thanks me for my belief in him when he was a struggling 6th grade student. He tells me of his career path as a young man.

Teacher & Staffperson of the Year

Students gather around Mrs. Gifford & her Golden Apple award. Mrs. Gifford was se-lected by the selection committee as the 2015 Teacher of the Year for Cazenovia CSD.

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• The moment when a student teacher turns and smiles at me (the host teacher) while realizing that her/his lesson just made an impact and she/he has remembered why they desire this profession.

• The moment when a child presents me with a heartfelt card or homemade gift. Their love is genuine and so pure it touches me.

• The moment when you laugh, share and cry with your col-leagues. You realize they are your second family and you truly appreciate all the moral and emotional support they lend you throughout the school year.

What have been the biggest changes in the profession during your career?

Certainly the digital age has brought technology front and center in our society and hence our classrooms.

What would you hope your teaching legacy might be?

I hope I would be remembered for:

“Each and every child,Each and everyday,Using the skills, passion and knowledge I possessTo Make A Difference forEach and every child,Each and every day.”

Please describe your family.

My father will be 90 years old in November. He still lives on East Lake Road in Cazenovia (my family home). My husband attended Cazenovia Central and C.B.A. and has had an honorable career in law enforcement. He presently is the Chief of Police in Hamilton. My three sons - Ryan - 27, Brett - 24, and Shawn - 16, continue to make us proud in their accomplishments and citizenship.

If you never became an educator, what career might you have had? Why?

My love of reading and books would have led me to a career as a librarian.

Outside of teaching, what are your other interests/hobbies?

I enjoy collecting antiques, riding our motorcycle, hiking and playing guitar or dulcimer.

Anything else you would like to add?

I accepted this award with gratitude for the support the Cazeno-via teaching community has given me as well as the support they give to our students.

Burton Street Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Mary-Ann Ma-cIntosh, had the following remarks,

“Sharon Gifford has always put student learning as a priority. She recognizes students’ strengths and weaknesses and creates instruc-tion to support her students’ learning growth. She differentiated instruction before it became a district initiative. She sets high expec-tations for our students and supports them to succeed. She truly is a ‘Golden Apple’ teacher.”

Mrs. Lou Ann Turner – 2015 Staff Person of the Year

Current Staff Position: Administrative Assistant to the Middle School Principal

When did you start teaching/working at Cazenovia?

August 1992. Just before our big renovation project.

Have you always been in education or did you start out doing something else?

I have had a variety of jobs including probating wills in the Surro-gate’s Court, financial aid assistant at Syracuse University, two stints as office manager for a Manufacturer’s Representative and a Computer Training company. I also worked in sales and marketing and eventu-ally became a Computer Applications Trainer for word processing and desktop publishing before coming to the Cazenovia Middle School.

I made the choice to move to public sector as a single parent wishing to become more involved in my daughter’s education. She was just entering 4th grade and being able to watch her grow and mature was an unbelievable gift.

Please describe five moments as a staff member that you will never forget? Why?

One of my most rewarding experiences was when there were serious floods in rural West Virginia. We decided to collect books for a small school in Glen Rogers, West Virginia. The hope was that we would be able to collect 1 gently used book for every student and staff member in our school - that would be approximately 500 books. When the drive was completed, we had collected 7,100 books. Some wonderful volunteers and I drove in a caravan to Glen Rogers to de-liver these books and create a library where there previously had not been one. I took my daughter, then an 8th grader, over Veteran’s Day. It was an experience I am sure neither one of us will forget. She is now a librarian. I wonder if that trip sowed the first seed?

During my early years in the Middle School, I found out about a need for gently used linens. We decided to have a linen drive, asking for towels with life left. Our goal was 450 towels. Once again, the Middle School rose to the occasion and we collected 1,200 items. In later years, our student leaders resurrected the linen drive. They gained an incredible understanding of those less fortunate. When one of the student leaders said to me that she was “really proud of us,” I was even more proud of our kids.

After 15 years of costuming 7th and 8th graders for our Junior High Musical, there are so many stories I could tell. Every year as I send those actors off with one last blast of hairspray and one last safety pin, I realize how lucky I am to share in their lives as they grow and spread their wings. The middle school years are such a terrible and wonderful time for kids. They are unfailingly honest and a true delight. I have my own predictions of whom I will see on Broadway in the future!

During one of my first year’s here, we got 36-inches of snow in a few hours. I vividly remember our math teacher, Barry Parker, going out every hour to measure the snow on the picnic table. At the time, pre-renovation, we only had five telephones in the entire school. We managed to notify everyone and dismiss the students safely. All with-out cell phones!

District News

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District News

History of Teacher of the Year Award Each year, since 1983, the Cazenovia Central School District has honored one or more teachers for their outstanding accomplishments

as an educator in our district. Nomination forms are sent to all members of the teaching staff in early June. When teachers nominate a colleague, they submit written explanations as to why a particular teacher should be considered for the Cazenovia Central School Teacher of the Year Award. In late June teachers, who have been previously been honored as Teacher of the Year, review the written nomination forms and select the individual to be honored. Previous “Teacher of the Year” recipients have been:

Previous to the 1993 renovation, Dr. Regan came to me the week before April Break with a “project”. Since the 4th grade had already moved to Burton Street, I needed to find a place for all 300 remaining 5th and 6th grade students to be the day before break so that construc-tion could begin. So, the entire school went on a series of field trips.

Calling in every favor owed, we sent kids to the Carrier Dome for a tour and run on the turf, the Salt Museum, Rosamund Gifford Zoo, the MOST and every other place we could think of. The morning of our “Great Field Trip Adventure,” Dr. Regan was greeted by hoses in the hallways and a “keep out” sign at the Middle School. With 300 kids arriving for homeroom in less than 30 minutes, everyone was herded to the cafeteria and on to their destinations. Everyone had a great time.

The only interesting report came from the zoo. Apparently, our ado-lescent boys received an education in springtime at the Zoo.

What have been the biggest changes in the profession during your career?

The biggest changes have been in the safety of our children. We are much more aware of security in the past 10 years and, hopefully, more vigilant.

What would you hope your legacy might be with the school?

I would hope service for others and kindness and respect for everyone.

Please describe your family.

I am a native Cazenovian. My family operates Storidge Farm, an organic dairy farm in Fenner. It is a 4th generation farm owned by my brother, Hank Stoker. I have three brothers, Hank, John, and Peter Stoker and one sister, Joan Stoker.

My mother, Nancy Stoker, and I owned and operated the Stoker Homestead, a restaurant on our family farm for five years.

Presently, I live in Manlius with my daughter, Heather who is the Middle School Librarian at Solvay Middle School.

Outside of teaching, what are your other interests/hobbies?

I read, bake cakes and am an avid garage-saler. I am also a mem-ber of the St. James Church Choir and a lector at St. James Church.

Anything else you would like to add?

I work with an incredible staff. We are truly a team with a common goal. It is amazing that after 23 years of walking into Dr. Regan’s office saying “I had an idea in the shower” that she still lis-tens to those crazy ideas with an open mind and heart. I sincerely thank everyone for their support.

Dr. Jean Regan, Middle School Principal had the following remarks;

“Mrs. Turner has been instrumental in supporting the success of our Middle School students through her dedication and professionalism.

As many organizations recognize, the initial contact person sets the impression for clients, either positively or negatively. Lou Ann is exceptional in her ability to represent our school in its best light. She warmly greets parents, students, staff and visitors personally when they enter our build-ing. Often Lou Ann has some connection with these people so she quickly makes a connection and puts them at ease.

Students are Lou’s first priority. She is empathetic yet firm, a good listener, and an advocate. Students know that they can count on her to help them from the smaller crisis of no lunch money to the larger crisis that plague our middle level adolescents.

Communication with our school community is paramount. Lou initi-ated “e-blasts” a few years ago as a tool for informing parents about events or activities that affect their child. These have been met with heart-felt thanks! Parents really appreciate those little reminders about an upcom-ing half-day, concert, or Open House. Lou communicates with all faculty members professionally and with humor. Everyone depends on her to know the details surrounding all aspects of our school from plumbing, to scheduling, and beyond. If Lou doesn’t know the answer, she will find out and let the person know.

Lou supports fundraisers and volunteers her time for extra-curricular activi-ties. Many, many organizations contact her to donate baked goods and she always says yes!

We are most fortunate to employ Lou Ann Turner as our administrative assistant for the Middle School. She represents the Cazenovia Central School district well and supports our mission.”Mrs. Lou Ann Turner photographed at her desk with her award for the Staff Person of the Year.

1983 Barry Parker1984 Nancy Holland1985 Margy Clancy 1986 Andy Lepine 1987 Walter Stroud 1988 Sybil Spaulding1989 Frank DeGrenier 1990 Michele Decker1991 Pamela Ryan

1992 William Paben1993 Amy Conley1994 Eric Jerabek1995 Educators of Distinction

Program1996 Beverly Buck 1997 Mark Evans 1998 Deborah McCullough 1999 Ronald Luteran

2000 Christopher Hurd 2001 Bob Read2002 Lorraine O’Connor 2003 Kurt Wheeler2004 Nancy Kolwaite2005 Maureen Carroll 2006 Marva Spuller 2007 Ellen Dougherty2008 Lorraine Scheftic

2009 Mike Burns 2009 Vicki Reutter 2010 Mary Damon 2011 Nancy Saya 2012 Sean Kelly 2013 Margeret Sevier 2014 Robin Costello2015 Sharon Gifford

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District NewsWinners of the award receive a symbolic “Golden Apple” and have their names engraved on a plaque located in the display case at the

District Office.

History of the Staff Person of the Year AwardBeginning in September 2011, the Cazenovia School District started honoring one non-faculty employee as Staff Member of the Year.

This award will be given annually to recognize how a staff member has contributed to the success to our students and the district. Staff Person of the Year recipients receive a trophy in recognition of their award. Recipients of this award have been:

2011 Mrs. Kathy Morse, Teaching Assistant2012 Mr. Bill Poglitsh, Maintenance2013 Mr. Jim Giardina, Transportation Department Bus Driver 2014 Mrs. Mary Dewan, Library Aide 2015 Mrs. Lou Ann Turner, Administrative Assistant to the Middle School Principal

Transportation Department NewsThe Transportation Department would

like to welcome Debra Brown. Deb comes to us from Massachusetts with 17 years of experience safely transporting students. Our Department had a great start to the school year. A special thank you to Con-nie Thorp, Dispatcher and the office staff at Burton Street, Middle School and High School. Our staff does an excellent job to ensure that all students are placed on the correct bus to daycare or home at the end of the day. Throughout the school year,

should transportation needs change, please notify the appropriate school in writing. This information is passed onto the Transportation Department.

We often find clothing, eyeglasses, cell phones and other personal items on the school bus. We encourage parents to label belongings. Please call as soon as you are missing an item so that it can be located in a timely manner.

Should your child miss the bus in the morning, please call the Transportation

Department to set up another pick up point if possible. Please do not chase after the bus or have your child approach the bus from the rear.

Should your child have difficulty on the bus, please report to the Transportation Department immediately. Our goal is that students have a positive experience riding their bus.

Submitted by Karen Cowherd, Supervisor of Transportation

Introducing New Faculty and Staff

Ms. Lauren Burgoon, High School Spanish TeacherPlease join us in welcoming Ms. Lauren Bur-

goon to the high school as a Spanish teacher. Ms. Burgoon graduated from SUNY Geneseo where she earned her B.A. in Spanish with Secondary Education. While at Geneseo, Lauren played for the Women’s lacrosse team for four years.

Ms. Burgoon attended West Genesee High School where she participated on the lacrosse, soccer, basketball and tennis teams. She was

also a member of the Senate and Student Council. Prior to coming to Cazenovia High School, Ms. Burgoon taught Spanish for 3-years at Moravia Central School District.

As a member of a family with a long line of teachers, Ms. Bur-goon is overjoyed to be at Cazenovia living out her dream job. Ms. Burgoon strongly believes in developing life long learners that are equipped with 21st century skills. When she isn’t teaching, you can find Ms. Burgoon exercising, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Mrs. Renee Foisy Kleiner, Middle School Spanish TeacherA native upstate New Yorker (from the

“North Country” between Massena and Potsdam), while her father’s and grand-parents’ first language was French, Mrs. Renee Foisy Kleiner mastered it “the hard way,” in school. As a French literature major at Dartmouth College, where she also took intensive Spanish, Mrs. Foisy Kleiner served as a teaching assistant and, upon gradua-tion, participated in an exchange program with l’École Normale Supérieure in Paris.

During this post-graduate year, she taught English conversation at a French high school and studied Spanish and Educational Sci-ences at the Sorbonne.

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District NewsUpon returning stateside, Mrs. Foisy Kleiner taught middle/junior

high school French and Spanish in Dallas, Texas for three years. During the summers, she studied in Mexico and Québec. After being offered a generous scholarship, she earned an MBA at Southern Methodist University’s Cox School of Business. This opened the doors to working in international finance and marketing at American Airlines and travel-ing throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

In 2005, she and her husband and two daughters (now ages ten and thirteen) relocated to Central New York. After serving in various volunteer roles, she taught French at Syracuse University in 2013-2014, and feels very fortunate to have joined the wonder-ful learning community at Cazenovia Middle School in February of 2015, upon Debbie Taube’s retirement.

When not teaching, Mrs. Foisy Kleiner enjoys ice-skating and playing guitar. More likely, you can find her on the soccer field or in a dance venue with her daughters, or perhaps discussing genealogy or a good book with family and friends.

Mrs. Katy Pushlar, Middle School NursePlease join us in welcoming Mrs. Katy

Pushlar as the new Middle School Nurse.

Katy is a Cazenovia native and attended Cazenovia Central Schools. After graduation, she attended SUNY Morrisville and earned her degree in Applied Science in Nursing and then obtained her license as a Registered Pro-fessional Nurse. Katy has spent the past 14 years working at Crouse Community Center as Nurse Manager and most recently as As-sistant Director of Nursing.

Katy and her husband Adam continue to live in Cazenovia and own a dairy farm that Adam operates. They have three children, Chloe – 10, Cooper – 8, and Kinley – 18 months. When not working or in school, they enjoy spending time on the farm, being outside on their ATV’s and being with their many animals.

Mrs. Erika Bird, 4th Grade Special Education TeacherPlease join us in welcoming Mrs. Erika Bird

to Burton Street as the fourth grade special education teacher. She will be co-teaching with Kim Condon and Josh Smith. Mrs. Bird earned her B.S. in Psychology from LeMoyne College and her Masters in Deaf Education from Canisius College. She is currently certi-fied in Early Childhood Education B-2, Child-hood and Students with Disabilities 1-6, and Deaf Education B-21.

Mrs. Bird graduated from Jordan Elbridge High School where she participated in softball, Student Council, and was Vice President of her class. Before coming to Cazenovia, Mrs. Bird taught at OCM BOCES as a Teacher of the Deaf for 3 and 4 year olds.

When not in the classroom, Mrs. Bird can be found enjoying the outdoors with her husband and 2 year old daughter Natalie.

Mrs. Emily Stevens, Speech-Language Pathologist, Burton StreetEmily Stevens earned her B.S. in Commu-

nicative Disorders and Sciences from SUNY Geneseo and M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Northeastern University. Emily has 11 prior years experi-ence in the fields of speech-language pathol-ogy and audiology in the school setting. She resides in Cazenovia with her husband and two sons ages 6 and 4. When not at Burton street she enjoys many outdoor activities in-cluding: hiking, running, and skiing. She also

enjoys cooking and feels lucky to live in an area with such abun-dance of locally produced foods. She is very excited to work in the community that she lives and feels honored to be a part of helping students in Cazenovia to grow to their greatest potential.

Mr. Thomas Finnerty, Assistant Superintendent“Hello, my name is Thomas Finnerty and I’m

both excited and proud to introduce myself as the new Assistant Superintendent in the Caze-novia Central School District! My family and I are happy to be back in Central New York after spending the last four years in the Ad-irondack region. I’m especially excited about being back in Blue and Gold as those were my school colors when I attended APW.”

Mr. Finnerty earned a C.A.S. in School Busi-ness Administration from SUNY Brockport and currently holds a profes-sional certification in School District Business Leadership. In addition, Mr. Finnerty holds a B.S. in Information Studies from Syracuse Univer-sity and an M.S. in Educational Administration from SUNY Oswego. Prior to becoming Assistant Superintendent he was a math teacher for six years, a school technology staff developer for six years, a school district technology coordinator for two years and most recently the Director of Management and Finance for FEH BOCES in Malone, NY.

He is happily married to his wife Bonnie and they have three children: Jacob, Jordan and Julianna. Jacob is in the US Air Force currently stationed outside of Seattle. Jordan plays varsity soccer and is a competitive bass fisherman. Julianna excels at volleyball and softball. In his free time he enjoys watching his children’s sports teams, Syracuse University sports, the NY Giants and NASCAR. He also plays golf, downhill skiing, and has been active as a volunteer firefighter since the age of sixteen.

Mrs. Valerie Harris, 5th Grade TeacherPlease join us in welcoming Mrs. Valerie

Harris to the middle school as a 5th grade teacher. Valerie grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania and moved to Syracuse in 2009 to complete her undergraduate degree. She has a B.S. in Inclusive Education and an M.S. in Literacy Education, both from Syracuse University. She recently moved to Cazenovia with her husband Drew and their four beloved cats.

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Valerie has 2 full years of teaching experience, all long-term positions in different schools in Cortland, Sherburne, Baldwinsville, and Camillus. Her past experience includes working as a read-ing teacher, special education teacher, 1st grade teacher, 2nd grade teacher, and 4th grade inclusive teacher.

Growing up, Valerie witnessed teachers go to great lengths to assist her brother Adam, who had Duchenne Muscular Dystro-phy. Those supportive and encouraging educators, as well as her brother’s unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, inspired Valerie to pursue a career in education.

She is currently the Vice President of the Central New York Reading Council. When she is not teaching at the middle school, she can be found painting Bob Ross-esqe seascapes or spending time with her family.

Ms. Mary DiNapoli, High School English Teacher

Ms. Mary DiNapoli could not be more ex-cited to teach English 8, 9, and 9H this year. In 2014, she earned her M.A.T. in Secondary English from Colgate University and gradu-ated with High Honors. She completed her M.A. in English at Binghamton University, where she also double majored in English and Italian as an undergraduate.

Ms. DiNapoli is a graduate of Mahopac High School, where she edited the school newspaper and was the captain of the track, indoor track, and cross country teams. She is happy to be back at Cazenovia after student teaching with Mrs. Wendy Everard in the fall of 2014. Prior to that, Ms. DiNapoli taught at Morrisville State College and Binghamton University. She has also worked as a legal assistant in Manhattan.

An avid reader and writer herself, Ms. DiNapoli loves traveling, the New York Giants, and going to art galleries and museums. She is looking forward to a fantastic year with the incredible students and faculty of Cazenovia, and she is confident that all of her students will continue to grow as strong, successful, and creative readers and writers.

Mrs. Amy DeJohn, Full Year Substitute High School Business Teacher

Please welcome Mrs. Amy DeJohn to the High School as a full year substitute as the High School Business Teacher, filling in for Mrs. New. She is a certified NYS teacher in Business Mar-keting as well as in Work-based learning.

Mrs. DeJohn received both of her Masters degrees from SUNY Oswego and received her Bachelors degree from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. She student taught in 2010 at Phoenix High School in Phoenix, New York. Mrs. DeJohn spent 16

years prior to getting her degree in education as a Store Manager for Wal-Mart Supercenters.

She lives in Baldwinsville, New York and has been married to her husband Victor for 19 years and they have two daughters that attend school in Baldwinsville.

Mr. Tim Gallivan, Middle School Special Education Teacher

Tim Gallivan is a graduate of the Le Moyne College, Class of 2013, with a B.A. in History, a concentration in education, and a Masters of Special Education. Mr. Gallivan was a four year swimmer, top competitor, and captain, on the college’s swim team. He also served as a student athletic advisor at Le Moyne for three years. A native of Syracuse, Mr. Gallivan spent summers in Camillus working with elementary children and middle school youth at summer camps and coaching swim-

ming. He was responsible for organizing daily activities, field trips, helping to resolve conflicts, working with parents and designing weekly plans. He has a passion for helping others and making a difference through volunteering. Mr. Gallivan teaches fifth, sixth, and seventh grade special education.

District News

High School Parking Lot UpdateIn an effort to improve the flow of traffic at the High School, the District has made a few changes to the parking lot markings at the

high school’s west entry. Please take note that we have returned to the One-Way entry and exit pattern you are all familiar with from our pre-construction days. You will also see that Parent Pick-up and Drop-off is now straight ahead rather than around the entire lot. Staff and Visitors staying for a while, please turn to either direc-tion immediately upon entering the lot to find parking; this will help to keep traffic moving through the new loop. We expect the new pattern will allow for easier access for both parents and staff. Please take note of pavement markings and always look both ways; it may take some time for everyone to adjust to the new traffic pattern. Thank you in advance for your support and coop-eration in making the District’s facilities safer and more accessible to all of our community members.

Submitted by Mr. Matt Erwin, Director of Facilities

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High School NewsHigh School PTSA Running Carrier Dome

Concession Stand this School YearDo you attend Football Games at the Carrier Dome? Do you like

to help support the Cazenovia High School Parent Teacher Student Association? Do you ever get hungery while you are at the Dome? If you answered yes to any these questions then we have a great way for you help the PTSA to fundraise for the students!

This year the Cazenovia High School PTSA has secured a Con-cession Stand, at the Carrier Dome, for the 2015 Football Season along with some other special events. The PTSA is trying to help Cazenovia High School clubs, classes, and sports teams to find ad-ditional ways to raise money. The Dome Concession Stand pro-

vides that opportunity. The Dome will pay us a commission based on the sales for that day. This money will in turn assist Cazenovia High School based programs to pay for expenses that the school district is unable to at this time. This would eliminate our students having to sell candy, candles, wrapping paper or other items to generate funds for things like new uniforms, tournament fees, bus rentals, special clinics, competitions (etc.).

How can you help (other than purchasing all your snacks and goodies from the Caz Lakers Concession Stand)? This is a great way to volunteer your time to a good cause and to help fundraise with an easy one-day event. Several PTSA parents and Caz High School teachers worked the first few Dome Concession events and we had a blast! Student volunteers are also welcome and they can earn Community Service hours for their time. They must be 16 or older and have parental consent. You can also support the Cazenovia High School by becoming a member of the PTSA by emailing your interest to: tdav0317@gmail.com or by calling 655-4660.

Donations are always welcome and much appreciated.

Cazenovia Students Earn Service Hours and Learn about Local Resources

Three Cazenovia High School students were actively engaged in service learning opportunities over the summer under the Madison County Youth Bureau’s Service Learning and Leadership Program. Students completed 28.5 total service hours in July and August through visits to the Cazenovia Public Library, the Stone Quarry

Hill Art Park, Caz Cares, Lorenzo State Historic Site and the Friendship Inn. 1: Youth Bureau Service Learning and Leadership members Damian Wheeler,

Taylor Scott and Brennah Caffrey with Emily Zaengle, Executive Director, Stone Quarry Hill Art Park

2: Front: Youth Bureau Service Learning and Leadership member Brennah Caf-frey, Youth Development Specialist Tina Louis, member Taylor Scott Back: member Damian Wheeler, Benjamin Siuda, Lorenzo Maintenance Staff

Students began working with the program in the fall of 2014 meeting weekly to improve their leadership and personal skills. The program continued over summer with interested students to transi-tion into the program’s second year focus of service learning.

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High School News“It was so easy to find service opportunities for youth in the

Cazenovia community,” said Tina Louis, the Youth Bureau’s Youth Development Specialist. “There is a need for volunteers in many organizations that can be met by energetic youth, from helping at the library’s book sale to assisting with food distributions and trail maintenance.”

Cazenovia students are required to complete 40-hours of service in their high school career. This works nicely into the Service Learn-ing and Leadership program’s goals. One student, Brennah Caffrey, is determined to get the most volunteer hours in her class. “I’m try-ing to get as many hours as I can because I want to earn a scholar-ship for college.” Students learned how each organization contrib-uted to the wellbeing of the community and how they can return to volunteer in the future. Students will continue service-learning activities with the program when they return to school in the fall.

Press Release from the Madison County Youth Bureau, Tina Louis, 366-2895

Class of 2019 to Hold Annual Pumpkin Run and Spooky Sprint

The Cazenovia Central Schools Class of 2019 (9th grade) will be holding the fourth annual Pumpkin Run and Spooky Sprint. This will be a 5K Run/Walk following the same route as the Chilly Chili Run. There will also be a Spooky Sprint for any children. Wearing your Halloween costumes is encouraged.

There will be prizes for best costumes! The race will be on Sunday, October 25th

at 1:00 p.m., starting in front of the Middle School. All registration information is on the Cazenovia

Central Schools District Website. Registra-tion forms can also be picked up in the high

school, middle school, and elementary school offices. Pre-registration by October 19th will guarantee you a t-shirt, but race day registration will also be accepted (however, with no t-shirt guaranteed). All proceeds go to the Class of 2019. If you have any questions, email Ms. Nicole Littlepage at nlittlepage@caz.cnyric.org or Mrs. Trisha Moesch at tmoesch@caz.cnyric.org. We hope to see you all there!

Birdie Tournament 2015The 5th Annual Birdie Tourney will be held on Monday, Novem-

ber 2nd, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. in the Buckley Gym at the High School (Note: no school for students on November 3rd). It will be $10.00 to play and includes a t-shirt (2 people per team) or $3.00 to attend

as a spectator. Sign-ups to participate in the tourna-ment are open now. See Mrs. DeJohn in Room 230 to play. All proceeds will benefit the American Can-cer Society!

History scholars honored for perfect scoresThree Cazenovia High School students scored perfect 100’s

on their New York State Regents examinations in United States History in June. Lara Bruno, Ryan Haley and Morgan Mapstone were rewarded for their superb scholarship with a free dinner at the Brewster Inn. The students were all members of Mr. Wheeler’s history class during eleventh grade. Sixteen of Mr. Wheeler’s other students just missed the dinner by scoring 99% on the exam.

Cazenovia High School history students performed superbly as a group during 2015 with 100% passing the Regents exam in United States History and 96% passing in Global History. A school-record 86% of the eleventh grade students scored an 85 or higher on the U.S. exam while 68% of the Sophomores achieved “mastery” by scoring an 85% or higher on the Global History exam. Cazenovia stu-dents also performed well on the college-level Advanced Placement examinations in World and U.S. History and in American Govern-ment & Politics. On the U.S. history examination, 71% scored a 3, 4, or 5 on the rigorous test compared to the national average of 51%. In American Government & Politics, 59% of Cazenovia seniors scored a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam compared to 48% nationally.

HISTORY SCHOLARS REWARDED - Executive Sous-Chef Stephen Franks (left) rep-resents the Brewster Inn as they help honor history scholars Morgan Mapstone, Lara Bruno and Ryan Haley. The Brewster Inn co-sponsors the dinner each year along to celebrate academic excellence.

The tradition of celebrating perfect scores on history Regents exams in Mr. Wheeler’s classes is now in its 15th year. The dinners are generously co-sponsored by Richard Hubbard and the Brewster Inn each year as a way of encouraging academic excellence in our local schools. Thank you to Mr. Hubbard and congratulations to these outstanding students.

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Middle School NewsThe Royal “ONCE UPON A MATTRESS” to unveil in November

Turn over your hourglass and visit a royal kingdom, replete with a court jester, a wizard, a minstrel, Noblemen and Ladies in Waiting. All of these characters will be performing on stage in the Cazenovia Junior High Drama Club’s production of “ONCE UPON A MATTRESS”.

Performances will be held on Thursday, November 5th at 4:30 p.m. (senior citizens are welcome at no cost, but must reserve tickets through the box office), Friday, November 6th at 7:00 p.m. and the Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m. on November 7th. Tickets will go on sale October 15th and will cost $6.00. Please call our box office at 655-5309 or reserve online by visiting the District website and clicking Fine Arts (https://sites.google.com/site/fineartsofcazenovia/), then Jr. High Drama Club.

Lead characters are 8th graders Ava Hartley (Winnifred), Jonathan Benn (Prince Dauntless), Naomi Hamlin-Navias (Queen Aggravain), Clara Wheeler (Lady Larken), Dalton Sevier (The Minstrel), Davianna Bartelli (The Jester), Matt Knutsen (The Wizard), Tessa Carroll (Princess #12) and 7th graders Carter Williams (Sir Harry) & Fred Hammond (The Silent King).

1 - Clara Wheeler & Carter Williams2 - Fred Hammond, Davianna Bartelli & Dalton Sevier3 - (Seated) Carter Williams, Fred Hammond, Naomi Hamlin-Navias, Dalton Sevier, Davianna Bartelli (Standing) Clara Wheeler, Ava Hartley, Jonathan Benn, Matt Knutsen

3

1 2

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Special Guests Engage Foreign Language Students at the Middle SchoolMiddle school students in Mrs. Kleiner’s and Mrs. Spinelli’s Spanish classes enjoyed a special visitor on September 17th. A 2006

Cazenovia graduate, María Rocio Fernandez and her husband, native to Ecuador, engaged students in Spanish conversation as they performed an energetic lesson on Latin rhythm and dance.

Fernandez is one of the two 2015 inductees of the LOTE (Languages Other Than English) Hall of Fame, which honors CCS alumni who have con-tinued their study of another language beyond their high school classes.

Fernandez currently lives in Ecuador with her husband, Marcos, and two young daugh-ters, Aurora and Cecibel.

News from Burton Street

Mr. Reilly gets Flash-Hug-Mobbed at Ms. Taylor’s 1st Grade Classroom

On the second day of school, Superintendent Matt Reilly visited Ms. Catharine Taylor’s first grade class-room. As she was introducing Mr. Reilly and explain-ing to her first grade students that “he takes care of everybody in the whole school district,” a flash-hug mob happened. According to Ms. Taylor, “It was so touching.”

Middle School News

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Caz Points of InterestTri-M announces new officers for the new 2015-2016 school year

Cazenovia Lakers Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 2015

Congratulations to the Hall of Fame Class of 2015, inducted into the Cazenovia Lakers Sports Hall of Fame on Friday, Septem-ber 25, 2015. New members to the Cazenovia Lakers Sports Hall of Fame included, Dick Butler, Leland Avery, Tim Ryan, Suzanne Ryan, Steve Paluseo, Coach Tom Neidl, Kara Canniz-zaro, and Heather Stec. New plaques highlighting the distin-guished careers of these “hall of famers” will be on display soon at the Cazenovia High School’s Hall of Fame case located at the first floor hallway just inside from the west parking lot.

In addition to the individu-als being honored, the Hall of Fame recognized four teams as Hall of Fame Teams of Distinc-tion. They were as follows: 1937 Football, 1955 Football, 1956 Football, and 1962 Wrestling. Two community members were honored with Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Awards. Awards were given to Bob Kelly and Bucky Bennett. Two new plaques for the Hall of Fame Teams of Distinction award and

the Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Person award will also soon be hung at the Hall of Fame Display.

A great time was had as near-ly 200 people gathered for the ceremony, held at the Rusty Rail in Canastota, NY. Many thanks go to the volun-teers, presenters, Jack Stevens (the emcee), and the selection committee for your efforts. A special debt of gratitude is extended to Hall of Fame Dinner chairperson, Katie Cannizzaro.

The Cazenovia Athletic Asso-ciation, in conjunction with the Cazenovia Central School, es-tablished the Cazenovia Lakers Sports “Hall of Fame” in 2003.

Hall of Fame inductees are

selected for their total dedica-tion, consistent commitment to excellence and many accom-plishments in athletics during their years at Cazenovia Central School and beyond.

Nominations for Hall of Fame Candidates are accepted throughout the year. Candidates must be out of high school for at least five years before becom-

ing eligible for consideration. All candidates for induction must be formally nominated.

To make a Hall of Fame Nomination, click here; http://cazenoviacsd.com/athletics/cazenovia-athletic-association/hall-of-fame/ and fill out the nomination form.

Newly inducted, and previously inducted members of the Cazenovia Lakers Sports Hall of Fame pose for a photograph at the Rusty Rail on September 25th, 2015. Also pictured are members from the 1955 and 1956 football teams; the teams were both honored as Teams of Distinction. From right to left: Coach Tom Neidl (2015 inductee), Richard “Dick” Butler (2015 inductee), Kara Cannizzaro (2015 inductee), Heather Stec (2015 inductee), Suzanne Ryan (2015 inductee), Darlene McEntee (2004 inductee), Johnny Dougherty (2010 inductee), Ken Cody (1955 Football Team), George Conway (1955 Football Team), Neal Greenfield (2006 inductee), Bill Zupan (2005 inductee), Cliff Haaf (2004 inductee), and Bob Hart (1955-1956 football team). Not present for the group photo, Tim Ryan (2015 inductee), Steve Paluseo (2015 inductee), Leland Avery (2015 inductee), Jane Stevens for Harry Stevens (2006 inductee), Paul Stoecker (2003 inductee), and Assemblyman Bill Magee (1955-1956 football team).

Tri-M Music Honor Society is pleased to announce its officers for the 2015-2016 school year. The new officers are as follows; Brittany Wright - President, Saulo Ferreira - Vice President, Maddie Filkorn - Secretary, Mya Walters - Treasurer, Kate Hale - Historian, Caeli Carroll and Emily Mahoney - Publicists.

Tri-M is an organization dedicated to unite and recognize Ca-zenovia’s highly motivated student musicians by serving as ambas-

sadors to the Cazenovia school community and to the community at large. Members are committed, enthusiastic and passionate music students who participate and seek extra oppor-tunities to share their musical gifts. Tri-M’s members all have the same goal of spreading

the joy of music throughout the Cazenovia School District and the Cazenovia community.

“So far this year I’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone and figuring out this year’s mission of Tri-M. I’m excited to see what the year brings,” said President of Tri-M music honors society, Brittany Wright.

Some past Tri-M events are a December performing at the VA hospital and the annual spring Cabaret. Cabaret is a concert held at the school at which each Tri-M member is given the opportunity to perform. All members of the community are invited to attend the performance and see the hard work the students have done throughout the year. This year’s Cabaret will take place at 6:00 p.m., on Friday May 13th.

Tri-M advisors are Mrs. Teresa Campbell, Mrs. Mary Coburn, and Mr. Kevin Johnson. For more information on Tri-M Music Honor Society, call 655-5332.(back; left to right) Mr. Kevin Johnson, Mrs. Teresa Campbell, Mrs. Mary Coburn, Brit-tany Wright, Maddie Filkorn, Saulo Ferreira (front; left to right) Emily Mahoney, Caeli Carroll, and Mya Walters. Missing from photograph - Kate Hale, Historian.

Board of Education MembersDr. Jan Woodworth ................... jwoodworth@caz.cnyric.orgMr. Leigh Baldwin ............................ lbaldwin@caz.cnyric.orgMs. Katherine Hahn .............................khahn@caz.cnyric.orgMrs. Lisa Lounsbury ...................... llounsbury@caz.cnyric.orgMr. David Mehlbaum ..................dmehlbaum@caz.cnyric.orgMr. Louis Orbach ...............................lorbach@caz.cnyric.orgMs. Jennifer Parmalee .................... jparmalee@caz.cnyric.org

Superintendent of SchoolsMr. Matthew Reilly ......................................... (315) 655-1317

Assistant Superintendent of SchoolsMr. Thomas Finnerty .......................................(315) 655-1340

Important District Phone NumbersSuperintendent’s Office ............................................655-1317Assistant Superintendent’s Office ............................. 655-1340Buildings & Grounds ................................................ 655-5354Special Education .....................................................655-1361Transportation ..........................................................655-1326Burton Street Elementary ......................................... 655-1325Cazenovia Middle School .........................................655-1324Cazenovia High School .............................................655-1370School Lunch Manager ............................................655-5346High School Attendance Office ................................655-1370Tax Information ................ jmattina@caz.cnyric.org, 655-5376Business Office ........................................................ 655-1340Treasurer ................................................................. 655-5307

District Website: ............................ www.caz.cnyric.org

Editor of the Blue and Gold: Mr. Mike Byrnes • mbyrnes@caz.cnyric.org

cazenOvia central SchOOl DiStrict bOarD Of eDucatiOn & aDminiStrative PerSOnnel

Cazenovia Central SChool DiStriCt

Cazenovia, new York 13035-1098

Senior Citizen Gold Card available

Please call 655-1317 for more information.

Starting at the first home varsity football game each school year, and continuing into the winter sports season, the District sells season passes, known as Laker Season Pass cards, at the game’s ticket table. An adult pass costs $20.00 and a student pass costs $10.00. Passes are good for admission to all Football, Basketball, and Volleyball games when tickets are sold. Sectional and State Playoff Contests are not covered by the Laker Pass. Regular single game admission prices for Adults are $2.00. The fee is $1.00 for students and $1.00 for senior citizens. Children not yet enrolled in kindergarten and younger are free admission.

the laker SeaSOn PaSS