`

Central School

Blue Jay

By-Line

June 2020

Whitesville

Whitesville Class of 2020 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Katelyn Barney, the daughter of Doug and Kelly Barney of Whitesville, NY, was named

Valedictorian of the graduating Class of 2020, with a grade point average of 96.42%. In the

fall of 2020, she plans to attend SUNY Cobleskill, majoring in Agricultural Business and

Management. Katie’s high school activities included National Honor Society, Senior Class

Treasurer, Student Council Treasurer, DECA, NYS Mentoring Program, Yearbook, All-

County Choir, and she was also planning on playing softball for the first time ever this year.

She received the Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award, Keuka College George H. Ball

Community Achievement Award, Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award and the RIT

Computing Medal Award.

Naomi Buchholz, the daughter of Scott and Jessica Buchholz

of Rexville, NY was named Salutatorian of the graduating Class of 2020, with a grade point

average of 94.63%. In the fall of 2020, she plans to attend Alfred University, majoring in

Early Childhood Education. Naomi’s high school activities included National Honor Society,

Class President, Student Council, Youth Mentoring, Tutoring, All-County Choir, All- County

Band, Area All-State Choir, Rolling Tones, and Yearbook. She received the Wells College

21st Century Leadership Award, RIT Innovation & Creativity Award, Keuka College George

H. Ball Community Achievement Award, Elmira College Key Award, and the University of

Rochester Fredrick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award.

VALEDICTORIAN

Katelyn Barney

SALUTATORIAN

Naomi Buchholz

WCS, Empowering Learners to Lead, Innovate and Communicate

Front Row (l to r): Sydney Tubb, Erica Hixson, Mackinze

Delill, Karrie Button; Middle Row (l to r): Paiden Price

Brianne Cavanaugh, Kendra Stebbins, Chloe Norton,

Katelyn Barney, Naomi Buchholz; Back Row (l to r) Joshua

Fugatt, Dominic Reisman, Robert Whitesell, Nicholas

Billings; Absent: Jennifer Button

Whitesville Names Honor Graduates - Class of 2020

The following students have attained the achievement of Honor Graduate for the Class of 2020. Honor Graduates have a

cumulative grade point average of at least 90% or above.

Sydney Tubbs, daughter of Wade and Judy Tubbs of Harrison Valley, PA was named

Honor Graduate of the Class of 2020 with a grade point average of 94.32%. Sydney plans to

attend Mansfield University with a dual major of Music Education and Music Business. Her

high school activities included National Honor Society, Class Vice President, DECA,

Allegany County Government Internship Program, All-County Band, All-County Choir,

Area All-State Choir, Conference All-State Choir, NYSSSA School of Choral Studies,

Rolling Tones, NYS Mentoring Program, TAB, Yearbook and Tech Crew. She received the

New York State School of Music Association Award, Elmira College Key Award and the

University of Rochester George Eastman Young Leadership Award.

Chloe Norton, daughter of Louie and Karen Norton of Whitesville, NY was named

Honor Graduate of the Class of 2020 with a grade point average of 92.20%. Chloe plans to

attend Alfred State College majoring in Business Administration. Her high school activities

included National Honor Society, Student Council, Class Secretary, Youth Mentoring,

Yearbook, All-County Choir, Area All-State Choir, Solo Fest and Rolling Tones. She

received the University of Rochester Xerox Award and the Independent Health Community

All Star Award.

* Valedictorian and Salutatorian acknowledgement celebration *

Class of 2020 Future Plans

*Katelyn Barney – SUNY Cobleskill, Ag Business and Management

Nicholas Billings - Hilbert College, Criminal Justice

*Naomi Buchholz - Alfred University, Early Childhood Education

Jennifer Button - Employment

Karrie Button - Hilbert College, Political Science

Brianne Cavanaugh - Alfred State College, Liberal Arts

Mackinze Delill - Employment

Joshua Fugatt - Alfred State College, Diesel Mechanics

Erica Hixson - Employment

*Chloe Norton - Alfred State College, Business Administration

Paiden Price - Genesee Community College, Criminal Justice

Dominic Reisman – U.S. Army and University of Northwestern Ohio, Diesel technician

Kendra Stebbins - Employment

*Sydney Tubbs - Mansfield University, Music Education and Music Business

Robert Whitesell - Employment

*Denotes National Honor Society Member

Class Officers

President, Naomi Buchholz

Vice President, Sydney Tubs

Secretary, Brianne Cavanaugh

Co-Treasurers, Katie Barney and

Karrie Button

A message from Principal McNeely....

As I sit here reflecting on where we are, where we have been and where we are headed my mind is spinning. In the past two months all of our worlds have been turned upside down. I want to first and foremost say thank you. Thank you to our students for continuing to push on with your academics. I know this is not ideal. Thank you to our parents for supporting our school and teachers all while taking on homeschooling on top of your own jobs and family responsibilities. Thank you to our teachers, faculty and staff for diving in and recreating education with a moment’s notice. None of this would be possible without all of you and for that again I say THANK YOU. As we move forward to finish up the school year, we will be looking at a way to bring some fun and excitement to wrap up our year. Teachers are thinking outside the box and we will do all we can to find the positive and celebrate our students and all of their accomplishments.

Congratulations to our seniors. I am so sorry this has been your senior year. We will celebrate you!!!! You deserve it and we will find a way to make it happen. I’m proud of how you are handling this. It shows your character and your strength and with that, I have faith that you are all going to have a bright future and continue to make this world a better place. A special Congratulations to Katie Barney (Valedictorian) and Naomi Buchholz (Salutatorian).

We will keep everyone updated via our website as we make final plans for the end of the year. If I can do anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. This has been a challenging time but together we will prosper. I believe in WCS and this community. Stay healthy and look for the positive in everything you do.

Mrs. McNeely

Nurse’s News

Very important: stay home and

wash your hands and never touch

your face!!!!

I promise it will get warm outside,

so thinking ahead a few friendly

reminders:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. Use Sunscreen on both sunny

and cloudy days and reapply

every 2 hours or as needed and

wear a hat.

3. Get enough rest.

4. Wear appropriate attire and

safety gear during activities

like bike riding or hiking.

You are all missed. Have a healthy

summer.

School Nurse, Joan Cobb

www.whitesvillesd.org

A message from Superintendent Emery....

Dear Whitesville Community,

The Whitesville Central School Board of Education and Administration have prepared a fiscally responsible budget that

meets the needs of our students and community. We will continue to provide opportunities for our students to participate

in college courses, field trips, athletic events and other important programs without increasing the district’s portion of the

tax levy.

The Board of Education approved the proposed budget for the 2020-2021 school year in the amount of $6,669,501. We

will be asking you to vote on the purchase of a new bus in the amount of $122,000 which will be taken from our funded

transportation reserve. We will also be completing a $100,000 capital outlay project in the coming year that will include

asbestos abatement and safety. We continue to manage money in the reserves to ensure that funds are always available

for repairs, benefits and buses. We are pleased to say that Whitesville Central School remains in solid financial condition.

Last August, we reduced our tax levy by 3% for the 2019-2020 school year. The District’s portion of the local tax levy is

expected to remain the same as the current school year at $1,332,693. The tax levy is the amount of money to be raised

by taxpayers in the district.

The Annual Budget Hearing took place on May 26, 2020 on Zoom. The budget vote will take place on Tuesday, June 9th

by absentee ballot only, as directed by our Governor. We hope that you will send in your vote or drop it off at the school.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.

Respectfully,

Tammy Emery, Superintendent and the WCS Board of Education:

Jeffrey Erdman, President

Jane Hall, Vice-President

Scott Garis

Charles Cutler, Jr.

Monica Acomb

DAIRY DRIVE THRU

Held at WCS on April 24th and May 8th Sponsored by: Barney Farms along with Cornell Cooperative Extension, Allegany

County 4-H, Project Clover Aid, and community donations.

BUDGET CATEGORY 2019-2020 2020-2021 $ CHANGE

PROGRAM

Inservice Training 132,250 148,947 16,697

Teaching, Regular School 1,413,915 1,434,490 20,575

Special-Needs Student Programs 497,095 544,366 47,271

Occupational Education 280,180 239,225 -40,955

Teaching, Special Schools 5,400 5,400 0

School Library / Audiovisual 78,366 80,566 2,200

Computer Assisted Instruction 229,620 214,959 -14,661

Student Attendance 11,225 11,225 0

Guidance Services 112,605 94,730 -17,875

Health Services 64,810 65,265 455

Psychological Services 75,564 77,017 1,453

Co-Curricular Activities 58,900 62,085 3,185

Interscholastic 113,750 110,633 -3,117

Transportation 272,184 253,362 -18,822

Garage Building 68,120 69,510 1,390

Youth Programs 56,200 49,445 -6,755

Transfer to Interfunds - Federal and

Cafeteria

88,000 99,100 11,100

Employee Benefits 1,045,949 1,060,650 14,701

TOTAL PROGRAM 4,604,133 4,620,975 16,842

CAPITAL

Operation of Plant 260,970 278,865 17,895

Maintenance of Plant 70,725 70,535 -190

Refund of Taxes 1,500 1,500 0

BOCES Capital Project 39,330 39,330 0

Debt Service 759,567 750,477 -9,090

Transfer to Capital 100,000 100,000 0

Employee Benefits 46,487 47,140 653

TOTAL CAPITAL 1,278,579 1,287,847 9,268

Real property tax refunds.

District share of BOCES capital projects.

Payments for Capital Projects and bus purchases. 2017 Capital

Improvement Project.

Capital Outlay Improvement - Security Project, moving of main

office.

All benefits on salaries in capital component.

Maintenance salaries, equipment, contractual and supplies.

Guidance counselor and secretarial salaries, equipment,

contractual, and supplies.

Salary of nurse, subs, equipment, contractual and supplies.

Psychologist contractual salary, equipment, supplies and BOCES

services.

Instructional salaries for advisors, equipment, contractual

expenses and supplies.

Instructional salaries for coaches, equipment, fees for sports

officials, and supplies.

Administrative and driver salaries, equipment, insurance,

physicals, parts, fuel, tires, supplies, training and testing.

Building maintenance, utilities, and supplies.

Mentor program, after-school program, and supplies. Community

Schools staffing.

District support of cafeteria and special aid.

All benefits on salaries in the program component.

Salaries of custodian, cleaners, subs, equipment, supplies,

utilities, and BOCES expenses.

Salary of attendance clerk, subs and supplies.

WHITESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL

FISCAL YEAR BUDGET 2020-2021

DESCRIPTION

Salary for principal, teacher in-service stipends, and curriculum

development.

Salaries for teachers, aides, substitutes, equipment, textbooks,

contractual, supplies, and BOCES services.

Salaries of teachers and aides for special-needs students,

occupational, speech and physical therapy, supplies, tuition

placement and BOCES services.

Salaries of teachers and subs, equipment, supplies, contractual,

textbooks and BOCES services.

Summer school - Drivers Ed

Salary of library aide, subs, supplies, state aided library & AV

program and BOCES services.

Salary, equipment, computer hardware and software, contractual

expenses, supplies and BOCES services.

1 of 2

BUDGET CATEGORY 2019-2020 2020-2021 $ CHANGE

WHITESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL

FISCAL YEAR BUDGET 2020-2021

DESCRIPTION

ADMINISTRATIVE

Board of Education 11,550 11,500 -50

District Clerk 1,895 1,995 100

District Meeting 1,200 1,200 0

Chief Administrator 108,348 112,953 4,605

Business Administration 41,455 39,475 -1,980

Auditing 15,000 15,500 500

Treasurer 46,540 48,250 1,710

Tax Collector 4,650 4,650 0

Legal 1,500 1,500 0

Personnel 90,000 101,053 11,053

Public Information 5,400 5,665 265

Central Data Processing 160,000 178,000 18,000

Special Items 51,095 46,697 -4,398

Curriculum Development and

Supervision

25,615 31,791 6,176

Supervision, Regular School 79,610 87,240 7,630

Research, Planning & Evaluation 2,500 2,500 0

Employee Benefits 69,730 70,710 980

TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE 716,088 760,679 44,591

BUDGET SUMMARY

EXPENDITURES: 2019-2020 2020-2021 $ CHANGE

PROGRAM 4,604,133 4,620,975 16,842

CAPITAL BUDGET 1,278,579 1,287,847 9,268

ADMINISTRATIVE 716,088 760,679 44,591

APPROPRIATION BUDGET 6,598,800 6,669,501 70,701

REVENUES: 2019-2020 2020-2021 $ CHANGE

STATE AID 5,072,416 5,122,270 49,854

TAX LEVY 1,332,693 1,332,693 0

OTHER REVENUE 77,250 87,250 10,000

FUND BALANCE 116,441 127,288 10,847

REVENUE BUDGET 6,598,800 6,669,501 70,701

Curriculum salary for principal and contractual curriculum

coordinator including BOCES services.

Instructional salaries, contractual expenses, and supplies.

Instructional salaries, non-instructional salaries, and contractual

expense.

All benefits for salaries in the Administrative component.

Tax collector salary, ads, county charges for tax rolls & billing,

bonding and supplies.

Legal fees for normal school business.

BOCES services for negotiations and administration fee for CA

BOCES Medical Plan.

By-Lines publication and curriculum materials by BOCES print

shop.

BOCES fees for on-line financial services, computer network,

eSchool including student attendance and report cards.

Liability insurance, school association dues, BOCES

administrative fees and Workers' Compensation.

Treasurer salary, equipment, bonding expense, and supplies.

Legal ads, conferences, and supplies.

District Clerk salary, contractual, and supplies.

Expenses of monthly and annual meetings.

Superintendent and secretarial salaries, sub calling stipend,

summer aide, contractual and supplies.

Salaries, equipment, contractual and BOCES services for payroll

& purchasing.

Expense of annual financial audit and internal controls audit.

2 of 2

WHITESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL ANNUAL VOTE

Tuesday, June 9, 2020 until 5:00 PM You are being asked to vote on the following:

SCHOOL BUDGET

Authorize the Board of Education of the Whitesville Central School to expend $6,669,501 as set forth in the

proposed 2020/2021 budget and further authorize the necessary tax levy to support this budget.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER

Vote for one candidate for member of the Board of Education for one full term of three (3) years caused by the

expiration on June 30, 2020 of the term of Monica Acomb to begin July 1, 2020; to expire June 30, 2023.

Petition submitted by Monica Acomb.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER

Vote for one candidate for member of the Board of Education for one full term of three (3) years caused by the

expiration on June 30, 2020 of the term of Jane Hall to begin July 1, 2020; to expire June 30, 2023.

Petition submitted by Jane Hall.

LIBRARY BOARD MEMBER

Vote for one candidate for member of Whitesville Public Library for one full term of five (5) years caused by

expiration on June 30, 2020 of the term of Joanna Clark, said term to begin July 1, 2020, to expire June 30,

2025. Petition submitted by Shambra Hamilton.

LIBRARY BOARD MEMBER

Vote for one candidate for member of Whitesville Public Library for one term of one (1) year caused by

expiration on June 30, 2020 of the term of Kayla Bissett, said term to begin July 1, 2020, to expire June 30,

2024. Petition submitted by Sandra Knowles.

PROPOSITION # 1 BUS PURCHASE

Authorize the Board of Education to purchase one (1) 66 passenger school bus not to exceed $122,000, and to

further authorize the Board of Education to use Capital Vehicle Purchase Reserve Funds for bus purchase

monies in accordance with Education Law and Local Finance.

PROPOSITION # 2 LIBRARY LEVY

Authorize the Board of Education to levy and collect taxes in the amount of $59,767 for support of the

Whitesville Public Library.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

As per the New York State Governor’s Executive Order 202.26,

the school vote will be conducted entirely by absentee ballot.

Please return absentee ballots by USPS mail, utilizing the postage paid envelope provided with your ballot.

A locked ballot box is being provided for in-person ballot drop-offs

inside the four-door entrance at the West end of the school (near the big gymnasium).

Absentee Ballots must be received by 5:00 PM on June 9, 2020.

If you are a qualified voter and would like to request an absentee ballot, please contact District Clerk, Tracey

Waters by email at twaters@whitesvillesd.org or by phone 607-356-3301, ext. 221 no later than June 2, 2020.

A qualified voter is a resident of the Whitesville Central School District who is:

1. A citizen of the United States;

2. At least 18 years of age;

3. A resident of the district for at least 30 days preceding the vote.

This has been an unusual spring at the library. We had to close our doors on Monday, March 16th thinking we would be opened back up by mid-April. Now we are not sure when we will be able to reopen. It does not appear that it will be before July. We appreciate your understanding and support through all of this. If you had signed out books prior to our closing please keep them at your home until we reopen. STLS is automatically renewing materials, they are now due on July 1st. If we are not open at that time they will renew them again. No fees will be charged.

The theme for summer programming this year is “Imagine Your Story”. At this time we are trying to imagine what programming will be like for 2020. It is very likely that we will not be allowed to have programs at the library this summer. All programs may be passive and/or virtual. It may be you will stop at the library get materials to take home. What we do know is that we will have some form of programs and there will be drawings and celebrations for reading. We can not disclose details until we get guidelines from STLS, they are waiting to hear from Albany. We will send details information through school lunch bags, on Facebook and our web page. If you would like summer program materials and do not receive them please email the library at Whitesville@stls.org and we will get them to you.

Karen has been unable to work at the library on a “normal” schedule, but is working her full hours from home. She has “attended” numerous meetings, worked at professional development, held private story times and recorded stories which are played on Facebook. She has also continued on with Library Legos+ via Facebook chat. If your child would like to join this group or your child would like a private story time email Karen at Whitesville@stls.org.

You are also able to borrow ebooks from the library web site. We, with the other 48 STLS libraries, own over 24,000 ebooks. There is something for everyone through this site. You only need a library card to be able to do this. If you would like a card or if you have a card and forgot your PIN contact Karen and she can help you, usually within 24 hours. GIFTS AND MEMORIALS: In Memory of Patty Freeman Geissler: Engineering the Human Body: Artificial Organs by Tammy Gagne; Medicine and Hospitals How Machines Work; Always Smile: Carley Allison’s Secrets for Laughing, Loving and Living by Alice Cuipers; An Unlikely Witness: Joanna’s Story by Ginger Carrett; The Arkbuilder’s Wife: Zarah’s Story by Tracy Higley; The Healer’s Touch: Tivka’s Touch by Connlyn Cossette; The Human Body: Artificial Joints by Marne Ventura all given by Steve and Kim Freeman Thompson The library has new books, ordered pre-shut-down that are waiting to be read.

SAVE THESE DATES: All summer programming is TBD If allowed at the time the annual Ice Cream Social will be on Wednesday, August 5th from 6-8 pm. The 2nd annual Garden Tour will be on Saturday, August 8 th, again this will depend on the situation. More information on this will be available at a later time.

Whitesville Public Library 500 Main St.; PO Box 158, 607-356-3645

www.whitesvillelibrary.org whitesville@stls.org

Leap Day Program

Karen’s

new

assistant

Snow

day at

the

library

WHITESVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY500 Main St.; PO Box 158, 607-356-3645

2020 BUDGET SUMMARY PROJECTED EXPENDITURES BREAKDOWN

PROJECTED REVENUES 2019 2020 PAYROLL 2019 2020

LIBRARY TAX LEVY $52,267.00 $59,767.00 SALARY $37,003.00 $39,083.00

STATE LIBRARY AID (LLSA) $1,000.00 $1,000.00 SOCIAL SECURITY $2,294.00 $2,294.00

CASH GRANTS (BULLET AID) $0.00 $0.00 MEDICARE $537.00 $567.00

PETTY CASH INCOME $575.00 $400.00 WORKMEN'S COMP $303.00 $303.00

MISC. INCOME (ERATE) $800.00 $800.00 DISABILITY $303.00 $303.00

PROGRAM $100.00 $100.00 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE $361.00 $361.00

REFUNDS $200.00 $200.00 TOTAL $40,801.00 $42,911.00

FUNDRAISING INCOME $500.00 $100.00

RESERVE FUNDS (Bullet aid) $13,279.00 $7,500.00 LIBRARY PURCHASES 2019 2020

RESERVE FUNDS (Savings) $1,216.00 BOOKS $3,000.00 $3,000.00

TOTAL REVENUE $68,721.00 $71,083.00 MOVIES $300.00 $300.00

PERIODICALS $125.00 $125.00

PROJECTED EXPENDITURES 2019 2020 REFERENCE (YEARBOOK) $50.00 $50.00

PAYROLL $40,801.00 $42,911.00 STLS FEES $2,263.00 $2,623.00

LIBRARY PURCHASES $6,371.00 $7,044.00 PROCESSING SUPPLIES $100.00 $150.00

UTILITIES $4,000.00 $3,900.00 DIGITAL BOOKS $409.00 $646.00

INSURANCE $3,600.00 $3,235.00 WEB PAGE $100.00 $100.00

CUSTODIAL & MAINTENANCE $3,950.00 $3,500.00 FREEGAL $50.00 $0.00

OFFICE EXPENSES $4,143.00 $4,043.00 RB DIGITAL (FORMERLY ZINIO) $50.00 $50.00

TRAVEL EXPENSES $500.00 $500.00 TOTAL $6,807.00 $7,044.00

EQUIPMENT $2,735.00 $3,200.00

FUNDRAISING $250.00 $250.00 INSURANCE 2019 2020

PROGRAM $2,500.00 $2,500.00 FIRE, PUBLIC, LIABILITY, EMPLOYEE BOND $3,235.00 $3,235.00

TOTAL EXPENDITURES $68,721.00 $71,083.00 TOTAL $3,235.00 $3,235.00

UTILITIES 2019 2020

GAS $580.00 $650.00

ELECTRIC $930.00 $1,000.00

TELEPHONE $3,250.00 $2,250.00

TOTAL $4,760.00 $3,900.00

CUSTODIAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE 2019 2020

LAWN & SNOW REMOVAL $1,200.00 $1,200.00

REPAIRS $2,500.00 $2,000.00CLEANING SUPPLIES $150.00 $175.00

PAPER PRODUCTS $100.00 $125.00

TOTAL $3,950.00 $3,500.00

OFFICE EXPENSES 2019 2020

POSTAGE AND BOX RENT $275.00 $275.00

SUPPLIES (TAPE, STAPLES ETC) $500.00 $400.00

BOOKKEEPER $2,880.00 $2,880.00

DUES $70.00 $70.00

SAFE DEPOSIT BOX $18.00 $18.00

TAX RETURN $400.00 $400.00

TOTAL $4,143.00 $4,043.00

TRAVEL EXPENSES 2019 2020

MILEAGE $500.00 $500.00

TOTAL $500.00 $500.00

EQUIPMENT 2019 2020

EQUIPMENT PURCHASES $500.00 $500.00

PAPER & INK $1,235.00 $1,300.00

TECHNOLOGY REPAIR/UPGRADE $1,000.00 $900.00

TOSHIBA $550.00 $500.00

TOTAL $3,285.00 $3,200.00

FUNDRAISING EXPENSE 2019 2020

FUNDRAISING EXPENSE $250.00 $250.00

TOTAL $250.00 $250.00

PROGRAM 2019 2020

PROGRAMMING $2,500.00 $2,500.00

TOTAL $2,500.00 $2,500.00

TOTAL EXPENDITURES $68,721.00 $71,083.00

Whitesville Central School Extracurricular Sign Up2020 - 2021 School Year

Activity Name Substitutes - Sign Here Date

Grade 12 Class Advisor

Grade 11 Class Advisor

Grade 10 Class Advisor

Grade 09 Class Advisor

Athletic Director

Varsity Boys’ Soccer Coach

Varsity Boys’ Soccer - Timekeeper

Varsity Boys’ Soccer – Scorekeeper

Varsity Girls’ Soccer Coach

Varsity Girls’ Soccer - Timekeeper

Varsity Girls’ Soccer - Scorekeeper

Modified Boys’ Soccer Coach

Modified Girls’ Soccer Coach

Mod. B & G Soccer - Timekeeper

Mod. B & G Soccer - Scorekeeper

Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach

JV Boys’ Basketball Coach

Boys’ Basketball - Timekeeper

Boys’ Basketball - Scorekeeper

Boys’ Basketball - 35 Sec. Clock

Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach

JV Girls’ Basketball Coach

Girls’ Basketball - Timekeeper

Girls’ Basketball - Scorekeeper

Girls’ Basketball - 30 Sec. Clock

Modified Boys’ Basketball Coach

Modified Boys’ BB - Timekeeper

Modified Boys’ BB - Scorekeeper

Modified Girls’ Basketball Coach

Modified Girls’ BB - Timekeeper

Modified Girls’ BB - Scorekeeper

Varsity Baseball Coach

Varsity Baseball - Scorekeeper

Modified Baseball Coach

Modified Baseball – Scorekeeper

Varsity Softball Coach

Varsity Softball - Scorekeeper

Modified Softball Coach

Modified Softball – Scorekeeper

Blanket Athletic Substitute

Varsity Cheerleading Coach

Chess Club

Color Guard Director

DECA Advisor

Drama Club

Garden Club Advisor

Jr. Nat. Honor Society Advisor

Lego League Advisor

Lunch Hour Room Monitor

Marching Band/Memorial Day

Music Director

Nat. Honor Society Advisor

Publications

Robotics Club

Scholastic Challenge

Shrine Circus

Student Council Advisor

Tech Crew Advisor

Web Master

Yearbook Advisor

These positions are posted in the By-Lines in the event someone in the community is interested. If you are interested, please sign

your name, date and return to Mrs. Waters in the main office by June 1, 2020. If a position opens, applicants will be considered.

2019-20 Season in Review

Boys Modified Basketball - Coach, Tammy Ellison

The boy’s modified basketball team ended their season with a record of 5

and 8. We started with 7 players and ended the season with 5. There were

some games that we only played with 4 (whether it was because we only

went with 4 or the other team only had 4), but the boys played to the best of

their ability and never gave up. In some of our losses, we were very close

to winning, so it goes to show, these 5 boys can compete with some of the

better teams. Even though we didn’t have a winning record, these boys

made the season fun and very interesting at times. They are a great group

of boys and they should have a positive impact as they move up to the

JV/Varsity level.

Boys Varsity Basketball - Coach, Scott Bledsoe

The 2019-2020 Boys Varsity Basketball season was a challenging one. I

remember when I handed out the schedules, Brendal Jackson saying, "This

year's schedule is harder than last years" and was he right. Our non-league

schedule included Avoca, Bradford, Fillmore, J-T and Hammondsport, all

very high-quality teams. Although we ended the season with only a 2-18 record, the improvement in our team basketball was

fantastic. This group never quit working, never stopped getting better and continued to compete each and every game. That hard

work and improvement was evident in our play towards the end of the season. In mid-December we went to Andover and lost

by 36 points. When Andover visited on the last game of the season, we cut that in half and lost by 18. After earning our first

victory in early January with a one-point margin over Friendship, the boys beat them by 24 points to give Robert Whitesell a

win on his Senior Night. We were a much improved and more competitive team at the end of the season than we were early on.

Robert was our only senior. I truly believe with everyone coming back and the addition of some of our underclassmen up from

the JV squad, that we will put a good, winning team on the court next season.

I would like to thank Tammy Emery, Aaron Rawady and the

Board of Education for their continued support. All the bus

drivers who got us back and forth safely on those long bus trips.

Denny and Julie Erdmann for doing a great job keeping book.

All the parents for the constant running that is involved in

allowing your kids to be involved as student athletes. A huge

"Thank you" for Nate Monroe and Jake Domes. Not only for

their instruction during practice and games, but also for

listening to the rants and raves of an extremely passionate

coach!!!! Finally, a huge "Thank You" to all of my players.

Although you may not always understand why I push you so

hard and demand so much from you I truly hope you all know it

is because I only want the best out of each and every one of you.

Thank you all for your hard work and dedication. I hope to see

all of you back out for the team next year. I believe it will be a

special season for us and for the to-be seniors a chance to end

your basketball careers at WCS with some much deserved

success.

* MVP: Jesse Pensyl * Most Improved: CJ Estep * Coach's Award: Dylan Acor

Jesse Pensyl led us in scoring at 11.0 PPG and was 2nd on the team in rebounds. Although Jesse and I don't always see eye to

eye, he is the motor that drives this team. His effort in games and practice, along with his desire to win can never be questioned.

He is a competitor, a fighter and even though we drive each other crazy, a valued member of this team! I look forward to

pushing him even harder next year and to hopefully ending his basketball career at Whitesville Central School in a winning

fashion.

Making the jump from JV ball to Varsity can be a big challenge for many players. Going from Modified to Varsity is much,

much harder. CJ Estep not only made that switch, but also became a major contributor at the Varsity level. His hard work and

dedication to his craft is 2nd to none. In the off-season he goes to camp, plays AAU and works on his skills nearly every day.

All of his hard work paid off this year. CJ led the team in steals and assists and was 2nd on the team in scoring. Being only a

freshman, CJ will be a major factor for our program for the next 3 years.

Dylan Acor is the type of player that makes doing this job all worthwhile! He works his tail off in practice to get better and he

works his talk off in games. This hard work is why he led the team in rebounding and although we don't keep it as a stat, he

probably led the team in diving for loose balls! On top of how hard he works, he is a joy to coach. With every instruction I give

him there is a booming "Yes, Sir." His teammates and coaches all truly enjoy being around him every day. With 2 more years of

basketball left at WCS, I am eager to see where his hard work will take him as a player and us as a team.

Girls Varsity Basketball- Coach Aaron Rawady

Returning just two players from last year’s

team, and having no seniors in the group,

meant that there would be some uncertainty

with this young and inexperienced team. There

were some struggles early as this team was

learning how to play at the varsity level. They

lost two of their first three games against

strong opponents. Things quickly turned,

however, and the girls went on to win their

next ten games. That ten-game winning streak

was the longest such streak in Allegany County

in girls and boys basketball this year. They

faced some adversity as the regular season

ended, as they dealt with health problems that

affected their play. The girls continued to

work hard and push each other to overcome

that adversity, and that is exactly what happened. After defeating Chesterton Academy in the first round of the Section V Class

D2 tournament, the #7 seeded Blue Jays traveled to Rochester to face #2 seeded Northstar Christian Academy who had an

impressive 18-2 record at the time. In a hostile road environment, the girls were able to defeat Northstar in a tightly contested

game, earning them another semifinal appearance. The Blue Jays finished the season with a record of 16-7 and were crowned

the Allegany County Division II Champions. Kate Pensyl and Kennedy Bledsoe were selected to the Allegany County Division

II All-Star Team. Vanessa Hall was selected as the Allegany County Division II Most Valuable Player. She was also a

Spectator Great 8 2nd team selection and an All-State Class D 5th team selection. The girls showed a lot of heart and dedication

this season. With losing no one to graduation, the Blue Jays are poised to build off their success this year and have an even

stronger 2020-21 season.

Varsity Cheerleading- Coach Rashell Boyd

This season has had many challenges for our team; from players

starting the season with pulled/torn ligaments, to a concussion, and

random injuries from other activities. We had to constantly change

and adapt our competition routine. We did not perform the same

routine with the same girls on the mat not even one time. Despite

the many obstacles we still had a great season. At our first

competition of the season we took 4th place in Avoca. In Wellsville

our second competition we took home 3rd place and the Most

Spirited award. Beating out 18 other teams for the spirit award.

Arkport- Canaseraga was our third competition and we placed 3rd

again. Brianne Cavanaugh also took 3rd place out of 29 girls for the

best Jumps Competition. For our county competition this year we

were unable to compete for placement. Although we changed our

routine around again and still performed and stayed right by our

competitors point wise. That should have been impossible to keep

up with points, but our girls did great and shocked everyone. Brianne Cavanaugh was also selected All County All Star. Brianne

Cavanaugh competed and performed her Sr routine at Counties and won. She is the first cheerleader in over 30 years at our

school to win and represent Allegany County at the Ronald McDonald All Star Games. Brianne is our only Senior this year and

has been a captain for 6yrs. To say she will be missed is a great understatement. We wish her all the luck with her bright future.

Thank you to all those who continue to support our program. Special thank you to our administration, parents, community, staff,

boosters, and the best Driver our team could ask for Dennis Munro.

* MVP- Brianne Cavanaugh * Coaches Award- Zoey Lee * Most Improved- Haylee Button * Most Spirited- Kalin Elliot

A very special "thank you" to the Whitesville community for all the support you have given to Blue Jay athletics this year. You have continued to be instrumental to the success of our athletes and teams. We truly have the best fans around. On behalf of myself, the coaches, and student-athletes, thank you for all you do. Athletic Director, Aaron Rawady

2020-21 SCHOOL SUPPLY LIST

4th and 5th GRADE ➢ 1 - 1 inch or 1 ½ inch binder with pockets on the inside of the

covers ➢ 4 - packs of Post-it Notes, 3x3 ➢ 1 - pack of Wide-Ruled, hole punched writing paper ➢ 1 - set of 5, multi-colored highlighters ➢ 1 - set of thin dry erase markers ➢ Colored pencils and/or crayons – no markers ➢ 1 - pack of index cards ➢ 2 - large pencil bags (one for Ms. Cregan’s room, one for Mrs.

Lewis’ room) ➢ 2 - packs of plain wooden pencils – NO MECHANICAL ➢ 2 - large handheld erasers ➢ 1 - durable folder ➢ 1 - box of tissues ➢ 1-2 - tubs of Clorox/Lysol wipes ➢ Earbuds or headphones for use on iReady (to be kept in school) ➢ Spiral notebook for drawing or writing during lunch (optional) ➢ Locker accessories (optional) ➢ Water bottle (optional) ➢ Sneakers on PE days ➢ Book bag that will fit in a locker

*Please check before sending in supplies that are not listed. Many additional items will be provided and other items may just be unnecessary.

7th & 8th Grade Science ➢ Pencils ➢ Pens ➢ Erasers ➢ Index cards ➢ One 2 inch 3 ring Binder ➢ Loose-leaf paper ➢ Composition notebook ➢ Folder

Living Environment/Earth ➢ Science/Forensics ➢ One 2 inch 3 ring binder ➢ Loose-leaf paper ➢ Composition notebook ➢ Pens ➢ Pencils ➢ Erasers ➢ Index cards ➢ folder

ELA School Supply List ➢ 5 section tab dividers ➢ a college ruled

composition notebook for daily writing

➢ writing utensils ➢ three-ring binder (to

be used exclusively for ELA), at least 2”

High School Math ➢ Paper ➢ Pencils ➢ Binder ➢ Pencil Pouch

(for calculator)

2nd GRADE ➢ 2 large boxes of tissues > Backpack

➢ 1 container of Clorox Wipes (Girls) > Healthy Snack (daily)

➢ 1 package of unscented baby wipes (Boys) > Sneakers (PE every day)

➢ 1 Four pack Dry Erase Markers > 2 pink erasers

➢ 3x5 index cards (100 ct.) > 1 small pencil box

➢ 1 box 24 ct. #2 pencils > 2 pads of sticky notes

➢ 2 Elmer’s Glue Sticks (.77 ounce) > 1 pack Highlighters

➢ 2 Composition notebooks > 1 box Crayola Markers

➢ 2 boxes 24 ct. Crayola Crayons

➢ 1 box Crayola Colored Pencils

➢ 3 plastic folders in the following colors: green, yellow, and Orange

➢

3rd GRADE ➢ 3- 1inch Binders for Math, ELA, Writing

➢ 3 folders- I recommend the plastic ones as they

tend to last longer.

➢ Loose leaf paper- 1 pack

➢ Pencils- Ticonderoga is the best for our pencil

sharpeners in school, the others tend to not

sharpen very well

➢ Highlighters

➢ Pencil pouch or box

➢ 1 box of tissues

➢ Glue sticks

➢ Crayons or colored pencils

➢ Small scissors

➢ 1 composition notebook

➢ 1 notebook

Not required but may be helpful:

➢ Pack of whiteboard markers

➢ Snacks (I will keep in classroom and put their

names on it)

➢ Hand sanitizer (if you can find any!)

➢ Water bottle (try to avoid anything that can’t be

closed!)

KINDERGARTEN ➢ 1 Plastic pencil box

➢ 1 - 24 pack of Crayola crayons

➢ 4 glue sticks

➢ 2 boxes of pencils (to be shared with the

class)

➢ 1 two-pocket folder to store our

“ketchup” work

➢ 1 wide-ruled spiral notebook (please

don’t get composition books because

they don’t stay open when kiddos are

trying to write)

➢ 1 backpack

➢ 1 pack of thin dry erase markers

➢ 1 pair of child’s scissors

➢ one container of sanitizing wipes (Clorox

or other brand)

➢ BOYS ONLY: 1 box of quart size zipper

bags

➢ GIRLS ONLY: 1 box of gallon size

zipper bags

1st GRADE Classroom Supply (to be used by the whole class

as needed:

➢ 2 large boxes tissues

➢ 1 large package of Clorox wipes

➢ 1 large package of baby wipes

➢ Four pack dry erase markers

➢ 2 Bottles of white Elmer’s glue

➢ 1 package of Ticonderoga pencils

Student Supplies:

➢ 1 one subject notebook

➢ Plastic 2 pocket folders in the following colors:

red, blue, purple, green, yellow

➢ Backpack

➢ Healthy snack (daily) no cookies, chips, candy,

Little Debbie snacks, candy, pop tarts, etc.

➢ Sneakers

Please do NOT send anything that is not on this list.

It will be sent home.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN

➢ 1 Container of Play-doh

➢ 1 Box of Tissues

➢ Change of clothes (in a

bag labeled with

student’s name)

➢ Backpack large enough

to hold a folder

➢ 1 Container of Clorox

Wipes

➢ Healthy Snack (daily) ➢ 3 Glue Sticks (purple)

Whitesville Central School

692 Main Street

Whitesville, NY 14897

607-356-3301

PESTICIDE USE NOTIFICATION

Whitesville Central School District has adopted Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as an effective and

environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. IPM uses common sense practices to control pest by

taking advantage of various pest management options including the judicious use of pesticides. New York State

Education Law requires school districts to inform staff and person in parental relations of pesticide use in

district buildings and on district grounds. The pesticide notification process consists of three parts:

1. Initial Annual Notification – At the beginning of each school year all staff and persons in parental

relations will be informed that there is a potential pesticide use at school facilitates (buildings and

grounds); that the school district will maintain a list of individuals wishing to receive notification 48

prior to actual pesticide use; and that Michael McIntyre is the school district Integrated Pest

Management contact.

2. 48-Hour Prior Notification – Staff and persons in parental relations may ask to be notified 48 hours

in advance of pesticide use in facilities where they regularly work or have children regularly

attending classes. Schools must keep a list of these individuals and provide them with written

notification at least 48 hours before pesticide use giving date, location and name of pesticide used.

3. Interim (Summary) Notifications – Within two days of the end of winter and spring recess, and

within 10 days of the end of the school year all staff and persons in parental relation must be notified

of pesticide use since the last notification.

This letter is to inform you that during the 2020 -2021 school year it may be necessary to use pesticides at

Whitesville Central School facilities to meet pest management goals. If you have any question about the

Integrated pest Management Program or pesticide use at Whitesville Central School, contact Tammy Emery,

Superintendent at 607-356-3301. School districts are required to keep a list of individuals wishing to be notified

at least 48 hours before pesticide use at the facilities in which they work or have a child attending classes. If you

wish to have your name placed on the 48-hours pesticide notification list please complete the attached form and

return it to the address listed.

48-HOUR PESTICIDE USE NOTIFICATION LIST REQUEST

Whitesville Central School

I WISH TO BE NOTIFIED AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO PESTICIDE USE AT THE BUILDING(S)

LISTED.

Name: __________________________________________________ Staff/Person in Parental Relation

Mailing Address ________________________________________________________________________ Street / Apartment Number City State Zip

Student Name _____________________________________________

Building(s): _____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Return to: Whitesville Central School

Attention: Tracey Waters

692 Main Street

Whitesville, NY 14897

**BIZZARE BAZAAR 2020** As you are cleaning out your attics, garages, basements and under your beds this summer please remember our

Annual Bizarre Bazaar and set aside items for this GREAT Elementary activity!! One person’s trash is another’s treasure :)

The WCS Music Dept. is PROUD to announce that during the 2019-2020school year we had 31 students prepare / participate in

Solo Festival, 35 students selected to participate in ACSMA Honors All-County Ensembles, and 11 students selected to

participate in a NYSSMA Zone15 Area All-State Honors Ensembles. The rigorous selection process for these Honors

Ensembles is based upon the student’s NYSSMA Solo Festival rating. The NYSSMA Adjudication process is based on NYS

standards and rubrics implemented equally across the state. These WCS students should be recognized and congratulated for

their commitment to EXCELLENCE. We would like to thank everyone for your continuous support of the ARTS!

You can’t spell SMART without ART!!

The WCS Class of 2021 would like to thank the Whitesville

community for all of your support throughout the year. Your

encouragement and willingness to smile every time we

approached you to help out was greatly appreciated!! We are

soooo looking forward to next year and what the future holds for

us!!!

We’re not done till it’s 2021!!

LAST DAY OF CLASSES UPK - GRADE 12 STUDENTS

Thursday, JUNE 18, 2020

Wishing you a wonderful, happy and healthy summer vacation!

VIRTUAL CLASSROOM INSTRUCTIONAL NEWS

General Math/Lipnicki News What a crazy couple of weeks it has been. I have been amazed at how well our students have been doing considering the circumstances. I feel that mathematics is one of the harder subjects for students to learn remotely. For this reason, I have tried to keep my teaching as similar as I can to what has worked in the classroom. I have made a small studio where I have a whiteboard behind my computer that I can continue to work problems similar to the way I do in school. In addition, students can watch me complete my note packets on

their computer screens as I complete mine. In some ways this has been nice, as I have learned some new techniques of using the computer with my note projection, such as typing notes rather than handwriting them on the computer screen and using some of the more advanced line and compass tools that the computer has. Unfortunately, it is harder to observe student work, but students have been taking pictures of their homework and uploading it to Microsoft teams, and the quality has remained very high for most students. Most of my classes have been aiming to have two live one-hour long Zoom video lectures a week, with another hour to work by themselves on homework. I have been amazed at attendance during these Zoom Video Chat sessions. I think I would estimate attendance to be at least 90%. I think that the lack of structure and socialization has been difficult for everyone during this time, especially for students, and I hope that my Zoom sessions have been giving some of both. I try to devote most time during each session to work on math, but still leaving plenty of time to socialize with students between problems.

All state testing has been cancelled for math this school year, including the 8th grade state test, and the Regents exams. Students who pass my course will obtain Regents credit. While in some ways this is a relief, I am also disappointed because for many of our students I was expecting exceptional scores on exams this year, even if I got extremely ill like last year and missed the crucial last two weeks before the Regents exams!

We had some special opportunities this year, including a video chat with a Mechanical and an Electrical Engineer from Syracuse that filled my classroom with students from grades 8 and up. In addition, some students participated in Alfred University’s Nevins Competition in Mathematics and I was very pleased with how our students performed considering their younger ages. While there we also played math games and made math art. On a separate occasion, we also visited Alfred University for their Symposium on Renewable Energy, where we watched lectures from leaders in industry, saw Alfred University Engineering students’ research and got a tour of Hi Tech Ceramics. We have also played an occasional math board game in class and had many opportunities to continue playing in Chess Club, where we have expanded to play all kinds of mathematically based games after school. Students in Chess Club also joined Alfred University students at their Math Game Nights. This year I also started Electronics Club which meets once a week during lunch and also after school. In Electronics Club we have been building and fixing computers, helping Mr. Grisewood with figuring out the school’s new CNC milling machine, and working with Arduino microcontrollers. Electronics Club was planning on presenting two posters on projects that we have done during the year at a STEM fair, but unfortunately that was cancelled. Also unfortunately cancelled for this year was our trip to the Alfred University Stull Observatory to look at the stars with their collection of huge

What a first year at WCS! As we are in the final few months of school, I have been extremely lucky to be a member of the WCS family this year. The administration, staff, students, and families have really been so encouraging during this time of uncertainty. In third grade we are continuing to grow and learn all while navigating this new online learning; I could not be more proud of my kids and their families for taking this challenge head on and being great at it! In math the kids have been focusing on fractions. We now can identify fractions, their names, place them on number lines, and also

determine equal fractions. The kids have done a tremendous job with this skill. In ELA we have been reading Fact to Face with Wolves. With this, the class has been learning about wolves and their packs, characteristics of wolves, and how they survive together. It is a very informative text and they are really enjoying all that they are getting out of it. During this new norm,

we have also had classroom Zoom calls where we are able to get together and just chat with our friends; this has become our class highlight of the week as we all miss one another terribly. As my first year at WCS comes to a close, I want to thank my current 3rd graders for making my year so incredible. I wish you all a safe and healthy summer; continue to stay active and keep reading!! Mrs. Grimes, 3rd grade Teacher

My teach from home ‘studio’

telescopes, and a very exciting field trip to the Department of Energy Laboratory for Laser Energetics, located on the University of Rochester’s campus housing two of the most powerful lasers in the world. I hope that we can revisit these ideas next year. In addition, our Scholastic Challenge teams competed in a virtual challenge with teams in Allegany and Cattaraugus counties. Amazingly, our junior team won the championship beating Wellsville by a huge margin in the finals, while also competing and beating much larger schools including Olean. National Honors Society was planning on our induction ceremony the week that school was first closed. We are considering a joint virtual induction ceremony with Junior National Honors Society soon. NHS also sponsored a blood drive this year as well helping run the Senior Holiday Luncheon. We are trying to plan additional service projects while social distancing is in effect.

Middle School Math: In 8th Grade Math we have been working on statistics recently. We have been working with reviewing concepts like mean/median/mode and making univariate plots like bar graphs and histograms. This year students are introduced to bivariate statistics, where they compare two statistical variables. They also analyze if there is a correlation between the two variables, if the correlation is positive of negative, and

if the correlation is strong or weak. We are currently wrapping up some more advanced statistics exercises via our biweekly Zoom video chats. At this point I usually allow students to conduct a research project on bivariate statistics and analyze the data via Microsoft Excel, create plots via the computer, and have the computer generate lines of best fit with associated equations and correlation coefficients. Students then make posters out of their work which have always turned out amazingly well. In the past students have come up with very interesting topics. I especially like topics where we don’t know if there is going to be a strong correlation or not. Previous topics have included: does the length of Steven King’s novels change with time of publication, do heavier cars have larger brake rotors, are basketball players who have a high three point percentages also have a high three point percentage, are store brand foodstuffs cheaper per ounce than the name brand, and are foods higher in salt higher in sugar. I would love to include this project for this year as well, but I think that some changes will have to be made considering that we are not in the school building. I still think that the project can still be very interesting even if we can’t make the traditional posters at the end. Other poster projects that we did this year in Math 8 have

included: slogan posters for laws of exponents, designing a water park and analyzing the equations of the lines for the paths connecting the rides, and performing rigid motions (translations, reflections, and rotations) on a logo of their choice. Students were just putting the finishing touches on their logo rigid motion posters when we closed the school building. Hopefully we can put the finishing touches on them during the first week of school in the Fall and you can see their amazing work. I love the interaction between math and art, and I hope to continue integrating more math art synthesis into the curriculum.

High School Math: In Algebra 1, we have been working on sequences and are moving into how they relate to statistics. Both topics are very important in the modern world, and both topics are covered in a depth now that I did not study until I was in college. I recently asked a brilliant local mathematician, Dr. Todd, what topics he thought should be taught to high school students, or even college students rather than Calculus. He highlighted the topics of Sequences and Statistics, also adding Combinatorics and Graph Theory. I am glad that the state has updated the curriculum to cover the first two topics, and I have been adding challenge questions to students on the second two topics such as computing partitions (the number of ways you can add whole numbers together to get a said number) or the famous Königsberg Bridge problem finding out if there is a way to cross a German Island city taking every bridge only once. The Statistics portion of the curriculum that we

Whitesville’s score in the Scholastic Challenge Final.

Math 8 water park poster project on linear equations.

Wyatt finding

Partitions of 12.

He got all 77!

are about to get into the heart of is the last topic for Algebra 1. We would normally start reviewing for the Regents Exam after this. However, since there will be no Regents Exams this June (students will get Regents Credit if they get a passing grade for the course), perhaps we will have time to do a project on a more advanced, modern topic in mathematics. I am quite disappointed that we are not taking the Regents exam this year because of this Algebra 1 class. The number of brilliant students in this class is incredible. In addition, some students who have always thought they were bad at math, are finding out that as mathematics gets more abstract, they in fact also have incredible gifts. I was expecting our Regents scores to blow the rest of the region out of the water. I hope that every student in Algebra 1 strongly considers signing up for Geometry. This class is so gifted and is also growing so fast because of their collaborative spirit that I think every student could do well in Geometry.

In Geometry, we have been working on similarity, specifically regarding triangles. Like with all my classes we have usually been having two, one-hour long Zoom video sessions each week when the building is closed. Some of the topics in Similarity use constructions that we make with our compasses and straight-edges, such as finding the center of dilation, and making precise scalings of figures, both expansions and reductions. Making constructions using the compass is a very hands-on skill and I was concerned not being able to sit with students and guide them one-on-one like I usually do. This class is very tech-savvy and has helped me up my game and I have learned how to incorporate a virtual compass and straightedge into my computer presentations. It has been a lot of fun learning how to do this, and I think it is clearer than the ways that I have taught in the past, despite being done over video chat. Geometry is always the hardest course for me to get through the curriculum and still have plenty of time to review for; there are just so many different topics! I do like this depth and variety of topics as well as it highlights the different mathematical gifts that students have: writing proofs, plotting shapes on a graph, using compasses to draw constructions, using trigonometry to find angles and lengths of real world scenarios, visualizing three dimensional shapes, etc. I am hoping because this year we will not have to review for the Regents exam in June, that we will be able to have a more relaxed pace as we complete our last two topics: finishing similarity and covering advanced topics in circles.

In Algebra 2, we just finished a unit on probability and are finishing up our last major unit, the related topic of statistics. We are covering statistics at a level previously not seen in high school. Much of the more abstract trigonometry has been replaced with very challenging statistics. The students will be covering some statistics concepts that I was not introduced to until I was in college. We will learn about Z-Scores and their relation to the Normal Distribution, along with discussing confidence intervals and patterns of randomization. Much of the statistics incorporates using computer calculations. I feel the future of these students will have an incredible interaction with statistics that no previous generation has had with the advent of a new scale of computing power and data collection. For example, the movie Moneyball, starring Brad Pitt, shows how statistics can change fundamental concepts in baseball (sabermetrics). With the increasing amount of digital data being collected, I feel that there will be a new revolution in applied math affecting how we live day to day. I am very

excited to introduce the students deeper to these important concepts. If we have additional time at the end of the year, I am considering teaching students how to program in ‘R’, the industry standard for the most advanced statistics simulations.

In Calculus we have been preparing to attempt the AP Calculus AB exam. AP exams are given by the College Board, the same institution that offers the PSAT and the SAT exams. Students who take AP exams are ranked on a score of 1-5 based on a three-hour standardized test given in May. Students who receive scores of 3 or higher are given college credit for the course (some schools require scores of 4). AP examinations are very rigorous, and passing scores are highly respected by colleges. Because AP examinations are given to determine college credit, the College Board has decided to continue with the examination. However, the examination has been shortened from the three-hour standardized test method, to a 50 minute, two-short response question open-notes online test. There is a lot of uncertainty in what those two questions will be. By the time that you read this, the exam will have already occurred on May 12th and we will be awaiting our results.

Mr. Lipnicki @MrLipnicki on Twitter

Algebra 2 poster on COVID-19 statistics with plots and models from Microsoft Excel from the week before school closed.

Gretta making some beautiful constructions in Geometry

Kindergarten in Quarantine

Kindergarten is always interesting, but never anything quite like this. Computer lessons. Pictures of homework. Zoom calls for socialization. Snail mail. No one ever could have guessed that this is how we would be finishing out our Kindergarten year. That being said, Kindergartners are special.

Resilient. Brave. Loving. Fun!

Without hesitation, my students AND their amazing parents have jumped on board this crazy virtual learning train with me! We are learning as we go and we are even having fun!!

A HUGE shout out to all my Kindies and their families for being amazing and continuing to trust me during these crazy times. We WILL come out of this stronger, smarter, and closer!

Kindergartners hard at work at home! __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Wow! Can you believe where we are right now? When I left school on March 13th all I was thinking about was what we were going to be doing on Monday, how was next week going to go. I never thought it was our last goodbye, or last gym class, our last math lesson as a group, or my last time teaching this group of kids in our classroom. Who could have imagined we would be seeing each other through Zoom meetings, doing lessons at the kitchen table, or having drive-by birthdays. My 1st

grade students (yes, MY, because they are my kids) and parents have stepped up to the plate and handled this with perseverance and persistence. We've done math and reading lessons. We've written about our days. We've done bingo, directed drawings, and show and tell through Zoom. Although our learning and classroom look different, we will continue to move forward

because that is what we do. We have fun, we love each other, and we celebrate each other each and every day. We are #whitesvillestrong. Julie Ormsby, 1st grade Teacher _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4th and 5th Grade ELA/Social Studies with Miss Cregan

Hello from home! The students and I have been making the best of a tough situation while we adjust to this new type of learning. I am in awe as to how well they have adapted and learned the various platforms that we now use in our day to day learning. They are resilient, positive, and committed. In many ways, I feel this has brought us closer together and created a connection that we will always have, much like the class I taught when 9/11 occurred.

As a class, 4th grade meets 1-2x each day through video conferencing on Zoom. We have been reading the novel SOS Titanic by Eve Bunting, a historical fiction book about a 15-year-old boy traveling from Ireland to New York to join his parents. He is traveling as a first class passenger, however his peers, actually his enemies from the same Irish hometown, are traveling with their sister as steerage, or third class. We have had great discussions about the stress and internal struggles this makes for the boy knowing that the kids that hate him the most are traveling in much different conditions than him but also from the friendship that is developing between him and the sister. The Titanic is definitely a topic that peeks interest, so that has helped to keep the kids tuning in each day.

Similar to 4th grade, 5th grade also meets by video conferencing on Zoom each day. Our studying has focused on the great Jackie Robinson, and how he broke the color barrier in the MLB. We have been reading Promises to Keep by Sharon Robinson, but it has been a challenging text to get through without the extended time and resources that our normal in-class environment would provide. As of last week, I have changed things up and we are now working our way through a great site that was put together by his daughter Sharon, in honor of Jackie Robinson Day in April. It includes video clips, audio recordings of her book Jackie Robinson: An American Hero, and interactive activities. Students are also listening as I read The Hero Two Doors Down by Sharon Robinson.

If you haven’t checked out the school website lately, I encourage you to do so. On my page, I have included several student work samples of a project they completed focusing on the positive affects Coronavirus has had on the environment. They did an incredible job given their limited resources as well living with the negative impact of the virus first-hand. I am so proud of them.

News continued from Mr. Lipnicki

Administration Tammy Emery, Superintendent

Renee McNeely, Principal

Board of Education Jeffrey Erdmann, President

Jane Hall, Vice-President

Monica Acomb

Charles Cutler, Jr.

Scott Garis

By-Line Editor Tracey Waters

POSTAL PATRON

P.O. BOX

STAR ROUTE

14897

Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit No. 7 Whitesville, NY 14897

Volume 31

Issue No. 6

Whitesville Central School

692 Main Street

Whitesville, NY 14897

607-356-3301

www.whitesvillesd.org

Whitesville Central School has a new millionaire. A member of the 6-8 ELA Millionaire Club, that is. Each year, middle school students are challenged to read up to a million words before the year is out, and the first one to meet that goal in 2020 is 8th Grader Holden Matteson. As of the writing of this article, he has read 1,184,688 words.

When asked what his secret was, Holden answered, “I read looong books. The average would probably be something around the 400-page mark.” He likes

these long books to be filled with heroism and adventure. “My favorite book would have to be Renegades by Marissa Meyer. You don’t get superhero books like that very often. It flips the hero-villain ideas right on their heads!” Congratulations, Holden!

Video conference with Syracuse Engineers in my new classroom.

Making Arduino

Circuits in Electronics

Club

Playing a timely game of ‘Pandemic’ at Games Club the week before school was closed.

The back of Chris’s head at the Nevins Competition as he helps with making a giant Sierpinski Cube Fractal

Sculpture.

WCS students at AU playing games with Math Majors.

Darien lining a bonus shot up in the review game

‘Mathsketball’

The back of Chris’s head at Hi Tech Ceramics

The back of Chris’s head at the AU Renewable Energy Symposium.

Gabbi finding the equation of the

parabola with her computer to help Mario jump to the end of the level.