Voters approve 2012-2013 LCSD Budget, cuts on the way

The 2012 – 2013 Liberty Central School District budget was approved by voters tonight. The budget includes many cuts across various departments:

Staffing:
2.9 Teaching Positions (1.5-thru Attrition (Guidance & .5 Driver’s Ed)), .4 Phys Ed., .4 Reading,
.4 Science & .2 French.
3 Teacher assistants
3 Teacher Aides
1 Clerk/Typist
1 Technical Data Specialist thru attrition
1 Custodian thru attrition

We made additional cuts totaling $239,641 in the following areas:
- Reduction of summer school from 6 weeks to 4 and elimination of Pre-k Summer
program.
- Summer music lessons.
- Field Trips
- Newsletters reduced by 1
- Public information officer .2 FTE reduction
- Varsity Girl’s Tennis
- Basketball Chaperones reduced by 1 for girl’s games & 2 for boy’s games
- Cheerleading at away games for football
- Travel for wrestling matches – all will be held at home district
- 4:00 bus runs reduced from 3 days to 2
- Supplies have been cut 10%

Voters also voted in a fresh new face to the board – Shelia Parks.

Below is the ‘everything is going to be alright’ press release from the School District regarding the budget vote outcome:

Liberty voters approved the proposed 2012-13 Liberty Central School District budget on Tuesday night, with the final count of 303 yes votes to 133 no votes. The total proposed budget amount, $40,205,667 calls for a 0.5% increase in spending over last year and will increase the tax levy by 2%, which is less than the maximum allowable by New York State for this district.

Three Board of Education seats were also filled by the three eligible candidates: incumbents Daniel Parkhurst (251 votes) and Cindy Prince (239 votes) as well as newcomer Sheila Parks (245 votes). Board members serve three year terms.

“This budget represents some very difficult decisions that had to be made,” explains Superintendent Vanyo. “However, I am confident moving forward that the cost saving measures will not have a negative impact on student programs.”

The current budget proposal involved closing a $2 million gap created by the end of a $541,000 federal Education Jobs Fund grant and the increasing costs for state-mandated pension contributions and contractual salaries and benefits. The district has seen a $1.3 million loss in combined state and federal aid in the last three years. Additional state aid received this year was used to reduce taxes.

“The Board of Education works very hard to ensure that they are making the best decisions for our students,” explained Vanyo. “I am grateful that the voters took the time to come out today and that they trust in our planning and commitment to the district.”

Liberty High School SADD Chapter to host the Second Annual Spring Fling 5k Race/Walk

Liberty High School SADD Chapter to hold Second Annual Spring Fling 5k Race/Walk

The Liberty High School chapter of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) will hold the Second Annual Spring Fling 5k Race/Walk on Sunday, April 29th at Liberty High School. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the race kicks off at 9 a.m.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for local businesses and individual supporters.

Last year’s first Spring Fling 5k Race/Walk was the brainchild of senior Katie Heinle, who organized the event with her fellow SADD members. At the time, she hoped it would become an annual event, perpetuated each year by her classmates after she graduated.

Now in its second year, the organizational duties have been handed over to Junior Joshua Lieberman, with Katie serving as a mentor and committee member. “That was the plan all along,” she explains. “A current junior would be the chairperson with the previous year’s leader acting as a mentor and a sophomore learning the ropes for the next year. That way, the event can continue and grow.”

This year’s event organization is in full swing, and there are a few changes from last year, including a new race route and differentiated age brackets. The Fun Run for kids 12 and under will take place directly after the 5k instead of during the race as it did last year.

The proceeds of this year’s race will benefit the Make a Wish Foundation, a charity chosen by the entire student body and close to the heart of new chairperson Joshua Lieberman. “My six year old cousin has a rare genetic disease and the Make a Wish Foundation made his wish come true,” he explains.

Last year’s race raised $2,400 and hosted 130 runners/walkers. “We’d like to see over 200 participants this year,” says Lieberman. The entry fee is $10 for students, $15 adults who register in advance and $20 on the day of the event. New sponsorship opportunities are available, including “Sponsor a Student,” which will allow more students to participate who may not have been able to otherwise. There are also opportunities for students needing volunteer credit hours to help out on the day of the race.

For more information, registration form, route map and sponsorship opportunities, contact Joshua Lieberman at springfling5k@libertyk12.org or SADD Student Advisor Sally Forbidussi at sforbidussi@libertyk12.org. Information can also be found at www.libertyk12.org.

LCSD to Induct 8 New Members to the Wall of Fame

Liberty Central School proudly announces that eight individuals will be inducted this year to the district’s Wall of Fame.

The Wall of Fame was created by the Board of Education as a way to honor Liberty alumni, past employees and community members who have made a lasting and outstanding contribution to society and to the Liberty community. Last year marked the inaugural class of Wall of Fame inductees, and seven individuals were selected for this honor. Their biographies can be found at www.libertyk12.org.

This year’s class of eight inductees was selected by a committee made up of individuals who represent various stakeholders associated with the Liberty Central School District and the Liberty community. After an extensive review process, the committee narrowed the field of nominations to eight individuals.

The inductees will be honored at a breakfast reception on June 23, which is also graduation day for seniors. “It was a difficult decision for the committee to make this year because each candidate had so many unique and admirable qualities,” said Liberty Superintendent Michael B. Vanyo.

The Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame is located in the lobby of the David E. Panebaker Auditorium at Liberty High School.

2012 Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame Inductees

Austin Frishman (Alumnus, class of 1958)
Mr. Frishman is a noted entomologist who developed the first successful German cockroach bait commonly known as “Combat,” roach killing bait. A leader in the field of pest management, Mr. Frishman has written nine books on various aspects of pest management technology, taught at the state university level and is considered an expert in the field of pest management.

Steve Ippolito (faculty)
Mr. Ippolito’s 37 year career at Liberty extended beyond teaching social studies and serving as the school librarian. He is remembered as a committed supporter of LCSD students and the community. Mr. Ippolito possessed a vast knowledge of the audio-video technology of the era, and was adept at sharing this with students and teachers.

Joseph Lewis (Alumnus, class of 1972)
An agent for 30 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mr. Lewis headed up a number of controversial cases in U.S. history. In 1996, he was the first African-American in Alabama to be named Special Agent in Charge of the Birmingham Office. There he helped lead the investigation into the bombing of an abortion clinic in Atlanta, GA – a case that would expose the man eventually identified as the Olympic Park. In 2000, Lewis oversaw the controversial investigation that re-opened the case of the 1963 bombing of an Alabama church that killed four African-American girls and injured 22 people. Two more men were convicted 37 years after the attack.

Maurice Martin (Class of 1982)
Maurice Martin was the 1986 Atlantic 10 Player of the Year, and a three-time selection to both the All-Conference team and the All-Big 5 squad. He was one of five Saint Joseph’s basketball players to be chosen in the first round of the NBA draft. Mr. Martin was drafted by the Denver Nuggets and taken 16th overall in the 1986 NBA draft. He played two seasons in the NBA and is now employed by the Denver Nuggets association.

Thomas Nickou (faculty)
While a biology teacher from 1953-1984, Mr. Nickou helped to create curricula for several first-of-their-kind classes at LCSD including biology, earth science and drug and alcohol education. He also was instrumental in the creation of the New York State Biology Regents. Mr. Nickou is an accomplished artist, and his classroom chalk illustrations are still esteemed today.

David E. Panebaker (faculty)
David E. Panebaker, for whom the Liberty High School auditorium is named, was the high school principal from 1931-1965. During his tenure, major programs were added to Liberty’s curriculum including instrumental music, orchestra, home economics and guidance. The National Honor Society and football team were also introduced to Liberty students. Mr. Panebaker served on numerous community boards, including the first Board of Trustees for Sullivan County Community College.

Harry Rapenske (faculty)
Athletic Director and physical education teacher from 1956-1984, Mr. Rapenske was a long-time, successful coach of numerous sports. His positive impact on the students he taught is still felt today. Under his mentorship, a number of his students were inspired to also become teachers or coaches.

Carmela Staropoli (community member)
Affectionately known as “Grandma Carmela,” Mrs. Staropoli was the first volunteer in the Foster Grandparent Program at LES. She served proudly in this role for 17 years, nurturing hundreds of students, teachers and new foster grandparents. A U.S. Army veteran, Grandma Carmela initiated the Color Guard at the monthly Celebrate Success programs, Christmas and Valentine’s for Veteran’s greeting card program and the mock elections for presidential and local election races.

Liberty Performing Arts presents The Wizard of Oz this weekend

Dorothy isn’t in Kansas anymore – instead she’ll be right here in Liberty, NY, as she and a host of beloved characters take the stage in the timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz.

Presented by Liberty Performing Arts, performances will be held Friday, March 23rd and Saturday, March 24th at 7 p.m. in the David E. Panebaker Auditorium at Liberty High School.

Based on “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” a children’s novel written by L. Frank Baum in 1900, the story became one of the best-known tales in American popular culture thanks to the 1939 MGM movie The Wizard of Oz.

The Liberty stage version will feature a wonderful mix of middle and high school students, with lead characters played by Sydney Goldstein, Drew Maier, Amanda Bertholf, Willy Killian, Jessica Watson, and Mrs. Couitt from the guidance department.

Directed by Liberty Music Teacher Emily Ford, with musical direction by Choral Music Teacher Tim Hamblin, the evening is certain to captivate young and old alike.

Tickets prices are minimal, and we hope you will support our student performers and musicians at what promises to be a fun-filled and entertaining event for the whole family.

For more information, please call 845-292-5400 or email eford@libertyk12.org

Former Career & Tech Students Touch Base: Where are they now?

The following is a great story submitted by Sullivan County BOCES. The Career & Tech program is an excellent program that gives students hands on experience. I participated in the electronics program myself during high school, the program gave me the foundation I needed to become the IT Administrator & Sr Developer for a highly successful advertising and marketing firm. This is part one of two:

Transforming our youth into responsible, qualified professionals is the primary focus of Sullivan BOCES. We pride ourselves in preparing the youth of our county so they are able to continue to college or go out into the workforce to become the “Leaders” of tomorrow.

The Career and Technical Education Program prides itself on accomplishing this goal throughout all of its programs. Over the years, several graduates of the Animal Science Program have demonstrated their ability to truly make a difference in our County.

After completing their college education, Carrie Endriss, 2006 Graduate from the Livingston Manor CSD, Brittany Senor, 2005 Graduate from the Liberty CSD, and Heather Ackermann, 2006 Graduate from the Sullivan West CSD, decided to come back to Sullivan County to use their knowledge to make a difference.

According to Carrie Endriss, becoming a Veterinarian has been a dream of hers since Kindergarten. She was never really interested in the typical academic classroom, so BOCES was a perfect match for her to learn hands-on, in a “Learning Lab”, the skills and knowledge she needed to excel in the competitive field of Veterinary Science. Carrie graduated from Alfred State College, with an Associates in Veterinary Technology. “BOCES definitely prepared me academically for college and gave me the edge over my classmates,” said Ednriss.

Today, Carrie works at the Youngsville Veterinary Clinic with Brittany Senor. At the Clinic, they are gaining the valuable experience that will ultimately allow both girls to continue on their journey to reach each of their dreams. Although Carrie loves working with all animals, her goal is to working at an Equine Clinic.

Heather Ackermann is working in the Horse Therapy Programs at the Center for Discovery and New Hope. Krysta Kelly, a senior at the Liberty CSD and current Animal Science students, is working with Heather in the Horse Therapy Program at the New Hope facility as a volunteer.

According to Barbara Moran, Animal Science Instructor at BOCES, “I have visited both of Heather’s programs and her work there is amazing.”

If you would like more information about the Career & Technical Education Programs offered at Sullivan BOCES call (845) 295-4152 or visit us at scboces.org.

The Career & Technical Education Program at Sullivan BOCES provides “Skills, knowledge and work ethic for the 21st century”

Moses Parts Sea of Fans at LCHS Basketball Game

Moses Parts Sea of Fans at LCHS Basketball Game

JAZZ FESTIVAL TO FEATURE LOCAL BANDS AND PROMINENT JAZZ ARTIST & EDUCATOR

The Liberty Central School Department of Music will host the 16th Annual LIBERTY JAZZ FESTIVAL, to be held on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Middle School gymnasium. The festival will feature High School and Middle School jazz ensembles from Liberty and Monticello. The students will also have the opportunity to participate in an afternoon clinic (beginning at 3 PM) with a renowned jazz artist and educator “in a non-competitive, constructive format,” according to festival co- chairman and Director of Music Gary Siegel.

This year’s clinician is Michael Pacer. Mr. Pacer is a professional Saxophone and woodwind specialist and recently retired as a music educator in the Port Jervis City School District. Early in his career he taught at Liberty High School. As a performer he has performed with The Temptations, Broadway Legend Richard Kiley, The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Philadelphia Philharmonic Orchestra and the Grammy Award Winning Jimmy Sturr Band. He currently performs with his “Orchestra of One”. The clinic will take place from 3 PM – 5:30 PM and the Concert will begin at 7 PM with both taking place in the Liberty MS Gym. Suggested donation for the concert is $3 with a maximum $10/family of 4 or more.

Donations will benefit the music scholarship fund and the WSUL/WVOS Heart-A-Thon. Tickets will be on sale at the door.

For more information contact Gary Siegel at 292-5400 x5117 or email at gsiegel@libertyk12.org.

Liberty to hold community budget forum on February 2nd

The Liberty Central School District in coordination with Sullivan County BOCES is holding a community budget forum to discuss the 2012-2013 school budget. The forum will be held on Thursday, February 2nd, 7-9 p.m. at Liberty High School and will give Liberty residents and opportunity to discuss their thoughts, ideas and concerns about the budget.

“During these difficult past budget seasons, we have needed to make significant reductions across the board,” said Liberty Superintendent Michael B. Vanyo. “This year also presents the additional challenge of staying within a 2% tax levy cap as well. We want to make sure that we are in touch with our community and want the public to have a voice in the budget formation process.”

The forum will begin with an introduction by Sullivan County BOCES Superintendent Larry Thomas, who will also moderate the event. Participants will be divided into smaller groups, guided by a Sullivan BOCES facilitator, to discuss key budget concerns including ways to save money, educational programs, and the top priorities of the community. Participants will then have the opportunity to discuss each group’s results.

If you would like to participate, please R.S.V.P. by Tuesday, January 30 to District Clerk Tania DeFrank, at 845-292-6990 or tdefrank@libertyk12.org. R.S.V.Ps are strongly encouraged, but not required. For questions, please contact Communications Specialist Allison Ruef, 845-292-5400, ext. 2055 or aruef@libertyk12.org.

Liberty basketball player ineligible to play, Liberty forfeits wins

A student-athlete at Liberty High School whose eligibility to participate in interscholastic athletics technically ended last year has been removed from the Liberty basketball roster, effective immediately. The violation of NYSPHSAA (New York State Public High School Athletic Association) regulations will cause the team to forfeit four games and the player to sit out for the remainder of the season.

The oversight in eligibility was found during a review of Senior files prior to graduation and brought to the attention of Liberty administrators. It was found that the student, although enrolled as a freshman at Liberty High School during the 2007-2008 school year did not play basketball that year, but had exceeded the NYSPHSAA regulation regarding “Duration of Competition,” because he is currently enrolled at Liberty High School for the 2011-2012 academic period.

“Although this year would mark the fourth season that this student has played varsity basketball, his enrollment at Liberty High School exceeds the NYSPHSAA criteria,” said Liberty Superintendent Michael B. Vanyo. “In light of the recent controversy in other local schools, the administration felt the only way to handle this was to bring it to the attention of the Section IX Executive Director and Section IX Eligibility Chairperson, as well as the OCIAA Athletic Coordinator. It is very unfortunate for both the student and the team, but there really was no other choice. We are willing to accept the penalty imposed on us, which will ultimately be the forfeiture of the four games.”

The oversight was brought to the attention of recently-appointed Athletic Director Andy Buchsbaum, who acted immediately to rectify the situation with Liberty High School and District Administration. “Academic eligibility is a top priority for our student-athletes,” said Buchsbaum. “This was a unique and complicated situation. It has been hard on everyone, but we expect our athletes to play by the rules, and we, as a district need to as well.”

The forfeiture of four games will potentially put Liberty’s record at 0-7. “The team and the student are handling this as well as can be expected,” said Buchsbaum. “They are disappointed, of course, but know it was the right thing to do.”

Wall of Fame Nominations Being Accepted

Nominations are currently being accepted for inductees to the Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame. The second group of inductees will be selected in early 2012 and honored on with a ceremony and breakfast reception prior to Liberty’s graduation on Saturday, June 23, 2012. Nomination forms and criteria are available on the district website or for pick up at the district administration office. Deadline for submission is Friday, February 25, 2012 at 3 p.m.

The Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame was established to honor outstanding Liberty alumni and employees as well as community members who have made a lasting contribution to the district. Nominees will be judged on exceptional accomplishments or significant contributions within their school, family, career, community or personal life.

The Wall of Fame will be located in the lobby of the David E. Panebaker Auditorium at the Liberty High School. “We are very excited to welcome a second group of inductees to the Wall of Fame,” said Assistant Superintendent and Wall of Fame Co-Chairperson Carol Napolitano. “There have been many prominent and fascinating individuals who have contributed to our society who have also been a part of our district. It is our goal to share their accomplishments with our community.”

Last year, Liberty inducted seven members to the Wall of Fame during the inaugural year. Those inductees included: Dr. Irvin M. Borish (Alumnus, 1930), James Burke (faculty), Alan Gerry (community member), Howard K. Schue (Alumnus, 1959), Sister Patricia Ann Startup (Alumnus, 1965), Lawrence Stier (Alumnus, 1945), Charles “Woody” Witherwax (faculty). Biographies about all Wall of Fame inductees can be found at www.libertyk12.org.

The nomination application can be downloaded at www.libertyk12.org or picked up at the District Administration Office at 115 Buckley Street, Liberty, NY. Please call Mrs. Tania DeFrank at 845-292-6990 for more information.