WCSD En Route Newsletter Budget Edition

Budget Edition

En Route

A Guide to the Wappingers CSD 2019-20 Budget & Bus Propositions

Working Together
For Our Entire Learning Community

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M Proposition 1 Proposition 2 C
2019-2020 Budget Bus Purchase H
P A
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O L
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W N
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E E

R

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Proposition 1 2019-2020 Budget
Proposition 2 Bus Purchase

Watch the 2019-20 Budget Presentation on Cablevision 21
May 9 at 7:00 PM • May 13 at 7:00 PM
May 16 at 7:00 PM • May 20 at 7:00 PM
or visit www.wappingersschools.org

Locate Your polling location on the mailing label on the back.

Empower Challenge Grow

Vote May 21 • 7:30 AM-9:00 PM

2

The Wappingers Central
School District

Board of Education

Peggy Kelland, President
John Lumia, Vice President
Paul Galletta
Barbara Goodman
Keith Odums
Linda Rappaport
Robert Rubin
Eddy Sloshower
James Spencer

Administration

Superintendent of Schools

José L. Carrión

Central Office Staff

Dwight Bonk

Daren Lolkema

Michelle Cardwell

Kristen Crandall The mission of the Wappingers Central School District is
Richard Zipp to empower all of our students with the competencies and
Ronald Broas confidence to challenge themselves, to pursue their passions,

Our Schools and to realize their potential
while growing as responsible members of their community.
Brinckerhoff Elementary

Fishkill Elementary Features Educational Excellence In Our Community
Fishkill Plains Elementary
Gayhead Elementary May 21 Ballot
James S. Evans Elementary

John Jay Senior HS All about the Read how WCSD Living our core values in
Kinry Road Elementary 2019-2020 budget. supports student learning. our community.
Myers Corners Elementary

Oak Grove Elementary p9 p 13

p 4Orchard View Alternative HS
Sheafe Road Elementary

Roy C. Ketcham HS Fine & Performing Focus on STEAM Athletics

Vassar Road Elementary Arts See how Science, Congratulations to
Van Wyck JHS Our students! See them Technology, Engineering, our athletes for their
Wappingers JHS

in action! Art & Math are infused. accomplishments.

p 14 p 16 p 23

With gratitude, the Wappingers Central School District dedicates this newsletter to
Mary Merenda and Dawn Dragonetti, Registered Nurses from Van Wyck Junior High, for resuscitating a woman

who collapsed in the school lobby in March.

3

A Letter to Our Community

Working Together for Our Entire Learning Community

Dear WCSD Community,

We are thankful to the Wappingers Central School District community for its
commitment to sustaining our current educational programs as well as enhancing,
creating, and developing additional opportunities to meet the needs of all our students.
This Budget Notice highlights the accomplishments of our students, instructed and
guided by our teachers, administrators, and support staff.

The Board of Education and the District have been extremely active in speaking on José L. Carrión
behalf of our students to our legislators at the State and local levels. As a District, Superintendent of Schools
we sent a letter (http://bit.ly/LegislativeActionCommLtr) to the Governor, local

legislators, and advocacy groups about the increased cost of the proposed security vestibule project by

$492,955. This increase for labor and materials is due to the State’s delay of more than a year and a half in

the approval process under the Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA). In collaboration with the Dutchess County

School Boards Association (DCSBA) and the Lower Hudson Education Coalition (LHEC), we advocated

for restoring the funding districts lost due to the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) and for changing

the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR). Wappingers Central School District takes a strong

stance that teachers should not be evaluated by just one measure. Our evaluation protocols promote teacher

learning and professional growth.

Our continued efforts will always be to support and advocate for the students in our District in order
to continue to provide enriching experiences. Propositions 1 and 2 reflect the work we do around our
instructional programs, extracurricular activities, the social and emotional learning environment and, of
utmost importance, the safety of the entire WCSD learning community.

Proposition 1 on the ballot is the 2019-2020 Budget in the amount of $234,950,988. The Board-approved
budget shows a 1.57% increase from the previous budget. The WCSD budget remains within the State’s
allowable tax cap while maintaining all current instructional programs, including all fine and performing
arts-related activities as well as athletics and after-school clubs. These programs are made possible by
providing highly-qualified administrators, teachers, and support staff, as well as facilities and equipment.

Proposition 2 on the ballot is the Bus Purchase proposition for the purchase of 25 student transportation
vehicles for $2,297,040. WCSD has the largest District-owned and operated fleet of the 733 school
districts in New York State. Replacement vehicles are necessary on an annual basis to ensure WCSD
students are safe and that the fleet is running as efficiently as possible. For more detailed information about
the propositions, go to http://bit.ly/WCSD2019_20Budget.

We always welcome your feedback. If you have any questions about the budget
or bus propositions, please email us at [email protected]. All questions are
answered within two business days. Responses are posted on our website to allow
the entire community to remain engaged in the conversation. Remember to vote
on Tuesday, May 21, 2019, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Sincerely,

Peggy Kelland Peggy Kelland José L. Carrión
President of the Board of Education President of the Board of Education Superintendent of Schools

4

May 21, 2019 Ballot
Proposition #1: 2019-20 Budget
$234,950,988

Revenue Sources Expense Breakdown

2.14% 1.60% 1.02% 1.66%

24.70% 28.79% 53.04%
70.54%
3.55%6.25%
6.40%

Tax Levy State Aid 0.25% 0.06% BOCES
2019-2020 Tax Fund Balance Textbooks
Other Revenue Salaries Debt Service & Transfers
Equipment Supplies
Contractual
Benefits

Adopted by the Board of Education on April 23, 2019

Common Budget Terms

Revenue Sources
WCSD receives revenue from various funding sources in
support of the annual school budget. These sources include
the tax levy, state aid, miscellaneous and designated fund
balance.

Expense Breakdown
WCSD’s annual budget is comprised of several types of
expenses. These expenses include salary and benefits,
supplies, contractual services, textbooks, BOCES shared
services, and annual debt service.
Budget is the District’s spending. It balances revenues and
expenses.
Tax Levy is the amount received in property taxes.
Tax Levy Increase is the calculated amount of property tax
increase in accordance with the Tax Cap Legislation.
State Aid is the amount received from Fiscal Year 2019
NYS Enacted State Budget.
Other Revenue is other financial resources received at the
local level (e.g., interest earnings, sale of equipment, other
charges for services).
Assigned Fund Balance is an amount intended for the
specific use/assignment for the District to reduce the burden
on the taxpayer.

May 21, 2019 Ballot 5

Proposition #2: Bus Purchase

Field Trips Help Maximize WCSD’s Transportation Investment

Wappingers Central School District’s bus fleet travels government and judicial entities to see political and
approximately three million miles transporting legal proceedings up close. Other trips are made
students to and from school each day. During to local farms and a plethora of historic locations
school hours, the fleet often plays an important role throughout the Hudson Valley. Visits to libraries
in supporting academics by enabling students to museums, environmental sites, and a variety of
experience unique learning opportunities outside of performances supplement classroom education and
the classroom. often give students a once in a lifetime experience.
Approximately 340 field trips have been scheduled
for this school year, which represents using district Numerous WCSD students also travel by school
vehicles for more than 10,000 miles. Using school bus to music, athletic, and academic competitions to
buses for trips helps the District maximize its demonstrate their skills and talents while competing
transportation investment. Some students visit against other school districts.

Vehicle Requests are Based on Student Need and Aging Fleet

Vehicle Type Number of Vehicles Cost per Vehicle Total
Being Requested $107,966 $1,511,524
71 Passenger Buses
14

29 Passenger Vans 9 $58,664 $527,976
39 Passenger Wheelchair Vans 2 $128,770 $257,540
25 $2,297,040
TOTAL

Replacing Vehicles in Our WCSD Fleet is Driven by Safety

Key Points

• WCSD inspects and maintains vehicles
with safety as the priority.
• Vehicles removed from service are sold
via auction in accordance with WCSD
Board policy.
• Revenue from the sale of these vehicles
is recorded by the District.
• WCSD pays for new vehicles with a
5-year Bond Anticipation Note (BAN).
• This type of revolving BAN allows for
the District to maintain level payments
from year-to-year, ensuring balanced
borrowing for the taxpayers and the
District.

Empower Challenge Grow

6

What To Look For on the Ballot

WCSD Budget Ballot

Proposition 1: 2019-2020 Budget Proposition 2: Bus Purchase

Shall a budget for Wappingers Central School District for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2019, in the Shall the Board of Education of the Wappingers Central School District, Putnam and Dutchess Counties, New
amount of $234,950,988 be adopted, and the necessary taxes to meet such expenditures be levied and York ("District"), be authorized to purchase student transportation vehicles at a maximum estimated sum of
collected? $2,297,040; and said amount or so much thereof as may be necessary, shall be raised by the levy of a tax
upon the taxable property of the District and collected in annual installments as provided by law, and for which
obligations of the District may be issued?

YES NO YES NO

WCSD Board of Education Candidates

123 6025

Election of Board of Education Members
Vote for Three (3)

Three (3) terms of three (3) years effective July 1, 2019 until June 30, 2022

AAA

Eddy A. 1 Marie 2 Michael 3
JOHNSON LOPEZ
SLOSHOWER

Write-In Write-In Write-In

Write-In

OFFICIAL BALLOT FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTION May 21, 2019 STATE OF NEW YORK, Wappingers Central School District
INSTRUCTIONS:
(1) Mark only with a writing instrument provided by the Wappingers Central School District. (7) If you tear, or deface, or wrongly mark this ballot, return it and obtain another.
(2) To vote for a candidate whose name is printed on this ballot fill in the oval  to the right of the candidate's name, like:  ballot by making erasures or cross outs. Erasures or cross outs may invalidate a
(3) To vote for a person whose name is not printed on this ballot write his or her name in the space labeled "write-in" that appears at the bottom of the column. your ballot, if you make a mistake in completing the ballot or wish to change your
(4) To vote yes or no on a proposal if any, that appears on the back of the ballot, fill in the oval that corresponds to your vote. complete a new ballot. You have a right to a replacement ballot upon return of th
(5) Any other mark or writing, or any erasure made on this ballot outside the voting ovals or blank spaces provided for voting will void this entire ballot.. (8) After completing your ballot, insert it into the ballot scanner and wait for the no
(6) Do not overvote. If you select a greater number of candidates than there are vacancies to be filled, your ballot will be void for that public office or party position,or proposal. successfully scanned. If no such notice appears, seek the assistance of an electi

Summer Camp Offerings
Available online at

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Over 50 camps to choose from!

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Vote May 21 • 7:30 AM-9:00 PM

School District Budget Notice

Overall Budget Proposal Budget Adopted Budget Proposed Contingency Budget
Total Budgeted Amount, Not Including Separate Propositions for the 2018-19 for the 2019-20 for the 2019-20
School Year School Year *
School Year
$234,950,988 $231,407,564
$ 231,312,631

Increase/Decrease for the 2019-20 School Year $3,638,357 $94,933

Percentage Increase/Decrease in Proposed Budget 1.57% .04%
Change in the Consumer Price Index 2.44%

A. Proposed Levy to Support the Total Budgeted Amount $165,627,869 $169,171,293
$0 $0
B. Levy to Support Library Debt, if Applicable $0 $0
$0 $0
C. Levy for Non-Excludable Propositions, if Applicable **
$165,627,869 $169,171,293
D. Total Tax Cap Reserve Amount Used to Reduce Current Year Levy $3,325,077 $2,241,170

E. Total Proposed School Year Tax Levy (A + B + C - D) $162,302,792 $166,930,123
$162,302,792 $166,930,123
F. Total Permissible Exclusions
$0 $0
G. School Tax Levy Limit, Excluding Levy for Permissible Exclusions
H. Total Proposed School Year Tax Levy, Excluding Levy to Support Library

Debt and/or Permissible Exclusions (E – B – F + D)
I. Difference: G – H (Negative Value Requires 60.0% Voter Approval –

See Note Below Regarding Separate Propositions) **

Administrative Component $21,792,771 $21,942,227 $21,442,870
Program Component $182,196,138 $186,357,978 $183,413,891
Capital Component
$27,323,722 $26,650,784 $26,550,784

*Provide a statement of assumptions made in projecting a contingency budget for the 2019-20 school year, should the proposed budget be defeated
pursuant to Section 2023 of the Education Law.

NYS sets limits for spending under a contingency budget. If Proposition 1 is defeated on May 21, 2019, the school district has three options: put the same budget up for vote
to the voters, put a revised budget up for vote to the voters or go directly to a contingency budget that is approved by the Board of Education. If Proposition 1 is defeated on
May 21, 2019, one of the above mentioned options would have to be approved at the May 23, 2019 Board of Education meeting. If a second vote is defeated the District must
go to a contingency budget, which means a 0% tax levy increase. The District would be required to reduce the proposed expenditures by $3,543,424.
Pursuant to Section 2023 of Education Law a contingency budget would eliminate the following items: equipment, school furniture, staff (certified and non-certified), supplies,
academic, interscholastic and extracurricular programs, NYS capital project, etc.

** List Separate Propositions that are not included in the Total Description Amount
Budgeted Amount: (Tax Levy associated with educational or Bus Proposition $2,297,040
transportation services propositions are not eligible for exclusion
and may affect voter approval requirements)

NOTE: Please submit an electronic version (Word or PDF) of this completed form to: [email protected] Under the Budget Proposed for the
2019-20 School Year

Estimated Basic STAR Exemption Savings1 $624.83

The annual budget vote for the fiscal year 2019-20 by the qualified voters of the Wappingers Central School District, Dutchess and Putnam
Counties, New York, will be held at the following schools: Fishkill Elementary, Fishkill Plains Elementary, Gayhead Elementary, Myers Corners Elementary
Vassar Road Elementary, Wappingers Junior High, on Tuesday May 21, 2019, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. at which time the polls will be
open to vote by voting ballot or machine.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1. The basic school tax relief (STAR) exemption is authorized by section 425 of the Real Property Tax Law.

8

WCSD Candidates Introduce Themselves
My wife and I I have lived in Mike Lopez
have lived in East
Fishkill for the Wa p p i n g e r s has been an
past 16 years and
our daughter is in Central School accomplished
eighth grade at Van
Wyck Junior High. District for special education
I am currently
an Independent fourteen years. teacher and
Insurance
Broker and a The University of administrator for
small business
Eddy A. Sloshower consultant. In Phoenix is where more than a decade
my spare time,
I enjoy basketball, reading, crafts I received an in the New York
and home improvement projects and
spending quality time with my family. education in City Department
As a member of the Board of Education
for the past three years – I have business. of Education.
• 100% Attendance at all Regularly
Scheduled Board Meetings Presently I am Through his work
• Committees: Smart Schools Bond
Act, Capital Improvement, Long- Marie Johnson a stay-at-home Michael Lopez in education, it has
Term Planning,
• Created the District’s Legislative mother. My work been his mission to reach and creatively
Action Committee and created
the position of Board Liaison experience has included the following: inspire as many young people as
between the District and our local
Municipalities. retail, food services, finance and real possible, showing them that anything
Academics is only one part of a child’s
education; extracurricular activities estate. Some of my hobbies include they dream is possible and within reach.
help develop well rounded students and
I will work to protect and maintain full reading, crocheting and genealogy. Mike has brought his passion for the
scale extra curricular activities in sports,
music, drama and the arts. arts into the classroom by conducting  after
I want to make sure that our teachers
and other district employees have access For the past eight years, I have school programs and organizing
to the very best resources needed to participated in the following: PTA,
successfully do their jobs. Board of Education meetings, and special events and field trips for
I look forward to serving this community district committees (Community
for another 3 year term and hope you will Communication, Capital Improvement, students, giving them the opportunity
support my re-election on May 21st. and Legislative Action).
to meet, learn, and work with

professionals in arts and media. 

I believe that gaining a strong connection Through his “INCREDIKIDS”
and communication with all members outreach program, Mike has assembled
of our community is essential to an artists/writers/performers,from
effective working relationship. companies such as Archie Comics,
DC Comics and The Jim Henson
My daughter is a Special Education Company, to travel along the East
student in this district and this gives Coast, enlightening educators  and
me a unique perspective to offer inspiring young people with
other members of the board and the family activities by developing
community to issues that arise within interactive programs  and  workshops
this district. I would like to be a part of for various conventions, charity events,
helping all children of this district along libraries, schools and summer camps.
with their families to have a voice they
feel is heard. As a candidate for school board,
Mike brings his educational
experience and dedication to special
education and the arts to listen, support,
and advocate for the needs of all parties
in the district. 

Best Wishes, WCSD Retirees!

Judith Allen Donald Campbell Ann Hack Marie Minozzi-Swanson Donna Tutolo
Dalila Ames Patricia Chapman Karen Heron Caryl Morris Susan Uhler
David Baier Michael Clarke Donna Hunt John Neevel Diane Vaccarino
Marion Bangert Tara Conley Steven Kieley Suelynn Nicalek Ceris Valesey
Beverly Banta Regina Cregon Kalli Kustas Ursula Platz Linda Viscusi
Paula Boshart Corrine Cutchin Margaret Latino Jeffrey Queensbury Joyce Wacht
Teri Brothers Elizabeth Daley Karen Lines Lorie Slinskey Virginia White
Brenda Calabro Patricia A Dean Adrienne Lombardo Elaine Stafford Patricia Zamborsky
Pamela DeBuono Andrew Lukan Linda Tedaldi
Donald DeLorenzo Donald Maule Carla Thompson . . . and to any newly
Diane Eramo Christopher McLiverty Wendy Travis announced WCSD
Gary Gilland James Melanson Patricia Tucker retirees!

As of 4/25/19

9

Educational Excellence
Specialists Help Teachers Make STEAM Experiences Shine for Students

Individuals increasingly must understand the subjects in our students to solve tough problems, gather and
collectively known as Science, Technology, Engineering, evaluate evidence, and make sense of information.
Arts & Math (STEAM) to thrive in today’s society, and Through the use of Three Technology Integration
schools accordingly are challenged to provide high- Specialists and a STEAM Professional Developer,
quality innovative learning experiences and environments teachers and students at WCSD are meeting the STEAM
to all students. Teachers are at the
forefront of meeting this challenge, challenge head on.
and the quality of their instruction Visit http://bit.ly/EnRouteLinks
therefore acts as a major fulcrum to learn how STEAM education
for improving education, by is taking place at all elementary
developing knowledge and skills levels.

Kinry Road Students Learning Technology, Arts, and Spanish

Students at Kinry Road are provided with ample to learn both academic and conversational Spanish. Kinry

opportunities to experience the wonder of technology, the encourages the growth of its students in all areas where

arts, and even gain foreign language ability. the dreamers can dream, the dancers can dance, and the

sky’s the limit. Pleace visit http://bit.ly/EnRouteLinks

The Media Club has been working with green screen Vassar Feet Raise Awareness & Cash
technology to create two media projects. The first project
was videoing a student reading the book, “What Does It Vassar Road Elementary School put their feet to good
Mean to Be Kind.” The second project involved Stikbots use in March to raise money for the Down Syndrome
and the Stikbots app. Students learned how to set up the Association. The organization promotes crazy socks as
green screen and how to develop and add sound effects. a fundraiser; Vassar Road took the idea and ran with it.
Under the Vassar Cares initiative, spearheaded by Mrs.

In the arts, there are two teams of sixth graders participating Licari, a teacher, and Mrs. Coyne, the librarian, the school
in Olympics of the Visual Arts, a statewide competition. raised $800. Funds were raised by selling pairs of crazy
One group of students worked on a graphic arts project socks over two days and collecting $1 from students,
and another group worked on a sculpture project. There is faculty, and staff who wanted to wear and show off their
also a group who meets monthly to transform something crazy socks in school.  We appreciate the parents who
special out of items some might consider trash into eco- helped by buying socks
and manning the sock
art. sale table with students.
Several students at

Kinry embraced the

opportunity to learn

a new language.

Throughout much

of the year, the

students met weekly

10

Educational Excellence

RCK & John Jay Complete DNA Lab at Dutchess Community College

AP Biology students from John Jay and RCK time they
completed a DNA gel electrophoresis lab at Dutchess
Community College in Poughkeepsie.   The students ever get to
are concurrently enrolled in DCC Biology 105 and
Biology 106, and upon successful completion of the work with this
course, they will earn eight DCC credits in addition to
AP credits. The lab is a required AP Biology lab. type of DNA
DCC opened their labs to Mary Jane McFarland
(JJHS) and Patricia Glancey (RCK) to run the technology.”
DNA investigation. All of the lab materials
were provided by DCC. The students “solved” a The students
crime by comparing the crime scene and suspect
DNA. Associate Dean, Michael Roe, and the learned how
Chair of Biological Sciences, Karen Ingham,
welcomed the students. Dean Roe presented an to access
overview of the college and the
transfer process. WCSD teachers led DCC research
the students through the experiment,
and then the students had a campus tour databases
and lunch provided by DCC.
“This field trip is packed with student from the
benefits,” said Ms. McFarland. “For
some students, this may be the only college librarian. They also received their DCC

identification badge from security. This will enable

them to get discounts at various places including

Regal Cinemas and DCC trips.“This day was a huge

success,” said Ms. Glancey. “The students

obtained great results and enjoyed acting

like real scientists. Many students were

amazed with the beautiful campus and

were excited to be in a college setting.”

When these students watch shows where

scientists are using DNA technology, they

can now say that they did the same thing.

Students at Gayhead Elementary have an Appetite for Science

Students at said Principal Adam Gerson. “We are very excited to
continue making the most of this new curriculum.”
Gayhead The Gayhead staff receives support from district
science and technology coaches, John Sammon and
Elementary Andrew Nikola, respectively. This has been most
welcomed.
School “They come into classrooms and are excited
and engage students through demonstrating and
have a great modeling lessons,” said Mr. Gerson. “They literally
had students drooling over a lesson on electrical
appreciation for circuits as they showed students how to run

science that gets current through a cannoli!”
Cheesecake worked too.
them moving “The biggest impact of their work
is on the teachers they work with,”
and yes, even he added. “Teachers are left with
a deeper understanding of the Next
drooling when Generation Science Standards and
how to adapt their practices and planning to be more
there is a cannoli in tune with the most current best practices in science
education.”
involved.

The 6th grade science curriculum is centered on science

experiences that get students out of their seats and

transform the classroom into a laboratory. These

experiences engage the students in the most critical

21st century skills: critical thinking, problem solving,

collaboration, and creativity. “It is really exciting to

see how dropping a marble into a plate of sand as part

of a study of gravitational potential energy can get a

whole class talking about their results or their process,”

Educational Excellence 11

Full STEAM Ahead at Vassar Road Elementary School for Critical Thinking

Vassar Road students Media Specialist, Therese Coyne, she developed
are sharpening their a series of monthly STEAM challenges, which
problem-solving, are differentiated for each grade so that all
critical thinking, and students can share the same activity.
collaborative skills at
the K-2 level. Students Along the way, students are sharpening the
engage in STEAM skills they need to become future scientists,
activities, often using artists, and engineers. It began in September
a picture book or with a string-lift team-building challenge.
non-fiction read-aloud Since then, students have built structures out
as a springboard. of marshmallows and toothpicks, completed
a breakout challenge, learned about and
Now, students have created pixel art, and designed marble paper
a STEAM Lab that plate mazes. Students share their work with
allows them to share these activities across the entire the other classrooms through a schoolwide journal on
school. First grade teacher, Lisa Books, proposed the idea Seesaw. Next up for Vassar Road STEAM Lab: electric
of a STEAM Lab for all classes. Working with Library circuits!

Fishkill Plains Learn Environmental Lessons from Fun John Jay Games

Third graders at Fishkill Plains Elementary learned about decorate games.”The session was timed so that everyone
the three Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) from special guest played all of the games.
instructors in February. The John Jay Environmental “This supported our curriculum in many ways. For social
Topics class and the Environmental Club arrived at the studies, we discuss how the choices and actions of people
school with customized games that underscored the influence our planet - the human footprint,” said Ms.
importance of taking care of the environment. Fitzsimmons. “Recycling fits perfectly into this lesson.”
“They loved playing educational games and looked In third grade science, there are discussions about life
up to the John Jay students, many of them are cycles, ecosystems, weather, and climate, all topics that
Fishkill Plains alumni,” said third grade teacher Ms. relate to conservation and resources.
Fitzsimmons. “It is our hope that this class continues to “My students were very proud of themselves for
focus on this important issue.” developing, designing, instructing, and achieving
The high school students taught the younger their goals of sharing their knowledge with younger
students about finite resources and how
humans depend upon natural resources for students,” said Ms. Heffler. “It was a great
everyday activities. Younger students opportunity for them and everyone was
felt an obligation to help reduce the totally pleased. Hopefully, we can do
it again.”

amount of plastic used after their

lesson.

Games mimicked popular

childhood favorites including

Candy Land, bingo, and bean

bag toss.

“All of the materials were

repurposed,” said Ms. Heffler,

John Jay teacher and club advisor.

“Bottle caps were used to create

game pieces, used cardboard turned

into game boards, and colored paper,

only printed on one side, was used to

12

Excellence in Education

Cereal Box Art Features Historical Biographies

At Orchard View Alternative High School, students was filled with rich vocabulary

in global studies and social sciences classes spent time terms from the historical

creating “cereal box biographies” of important historical period along with timelines

figures, using art elements to of events, biographies, and an

create biographies that were much activity to complete.

more visual than a research paper. To celebrate their hard work,

Individuals including Alexander Ms. Beeman, Ms. Dixon,

the Great, Winston Churchill, and and other faculty organized

Sigmund Freud adorned cereal boxes a breakfast where students

instead of famous athletes or cartoon enjoyed a fresh meal and were

characters. able to review all the wonderful projects. The cereal boxes

Students worked together to create a were displayed on paper tablecloths to allow students to

faux cereal box reflecting important provide comments and compliments for their peers.

events and facts from their historical figure’s life. Each box

Roy C. Ketcham Interact Club Building Special Gardens at Sheafe Road

The Roy C. Ketcham Interact Club, a like this before.”
community service club sponsored by The year-long project is to build
the Wappingers Rotary, had completed five enclosed 8’x6’x5’ functional
more than 40 projects by March. One gardensaspartofwhatwillultimately
that is closest to home is the construction be a butterfly garden. The “Kelsey
of gardens at Sheafe Road Elementary Gardens” will host a new garden
School in memory of Kelsey Berger, club that will help educate Sheafe
who succumbed to a rare type of Road’s 600 students on the sciences
leukemia when she was in first grade. related to gardening, nutrition, and
“Over the last few months RCK Interact plant life cycle.  It will also help
and the Sheafe Road Elementary PTA feed the children at Sheafe and
have been working on this garden and the needy in the community. RCK
we can’t wait to complete it,” said Interact has been helping prepare,
Interact advisor, Ron Remick. “We build, and weatherize materials to
were given this great opportunity by the ensure longevity. There are 80
PTA. Interact has never done anything members in the club.

Evans Enjoys Epic Reading Events and Author Visit
Evans Elementary celebrated Read during “Drop Everything and Read” and

Across America Week with trivia older students were buddy readers to the

challenges, dressing up in “Seussical” younger students for “Partner Up and

style, and partnering with others to Read.”

read, read, and read! Students also sang the Read Across America

Students, teachers, and staff signed song led by Mrs. Garcia one afternoon.

a National Educators’ Association To close out the week, author Matt
Read Across America oath to kick off McElligott visited to share his writing
the effort on February 25. Highlights process and to answer students questions.
included answering trivia questions for As a bonus, he described how he helps
a prize, wearing shirts/hats that could be with the illustrations for some of his books
read, and hearing mystery guest readers by using Photoshop and other computer
read aloud to classes. programs. Overall, it was a fun-filled,

The entire school read for 15 minutes book-filled week!

13

In Our Community

Mentoring Club Making a Big Difference AP Spanish Students
Help Central Americans
At Sheafe Road Elementary School, teachers are & John Jay Classmates
volunteering for the Mentoring Club to partner with
about 20 students in service to the community. AP Spanish students joined the
“Pulsera Project” to help Central
“The goal of our club is to reach out to our community Americans and also started a program
and help others who are less fortunate, lonely, or at their school to assist fellow students
going through a difficult time,” said teacher, Theresa who are learning English as a new
Farley. “We meet once a month to build relationships language.
between the students and teachers and to use our
creativity to make or do something special for the people in our community.”

The club made 20 blankets for Project Linus, an organization that accepts “They are supporting the project’s

crocheted or fleece homemade blankets for children that have been through a mission to help empower Nicaraguan
traumatic experience. In November, the club filled decorated mason jars with and Guatemalan communities with
ingredients for chocolate chip cookies and donated them to Thanksgiving skills, opportunities, and education,”
baskets prepared for 25 families. Other projects include making ornaments said teacher Nancy Beiner. “We
and holiday cards for the nursing home residents at Wingate at Dutchess in raised $1,975 in one and a half weeks
Fishkill and making calendars for residents at the Poughkeepsie Children’s and it was one of the most successful
Home to help remember special days. fundraisers the project has ever held.”

“Our community service projects help the children at Sheafe Road to be The class also collected medical
cognizant of others and their needs,” said Ms. Farley. “They see how supplies and personal hygiene products
committing a little time and effort can make a big difference in someone’s for a small village in Guatemala.
life.”

The students also benefit because the projects help to build self-esteem and The class is also part of “WE Service
pride and the teachers enjoy building special relationships with the students Project,” an initiative that offers AP
while helping others. teachers the opportunity to incorporate

Myers Student Council’s Community Service Focus service learning into their courses.
Students developed, organized, and
The Myers Corners Elementary School Student Council has been putting now run a program to help English as
in many hours supporting good causes and has reason to be proud. The a New Language (ENL) students in
Student Council was recently recognized by Dutchess County Executive, John Jay classes.
Mark Molinaro, for its work in promoting
recycling, as well as collecting data on how the Since January, 28 students have been
school handles its garbage and recyclables. volunteering as Student Supporters

The Student Council has also been publishing and are currently helping in English,
an entire newspaper for the sixth grade science, and math classes. They are
community at Myers. Their efforts don’t end working one-on-one with students,
in the school. Some members have created creating study guides, and most
a podcast about bullying which they plan importantly, developing friendships so
to enter into the National Public Radio that ENL students feel welcome.

podcast challenge to raise awareness about “Teachers have already reported an

bullying. increase in ENL student attendance as

Other initiatives underway include well as an improvement in grades,” said
painting place value charts in the stairwells and Ms. Beiner. “It’s a great partnership
working on a poster challenge to help prevent violence in and the students will be presenting
schools. their project at the Transformative
Classroom Youth Leadership Summit
“They have done a lot of great work and they are laying the foundation for 2019 for Dutchess BOCES on May
those who will follow them,” said advisor, Mr. Delvescovi. “I am so proud 21.”
of them!”

14

Fine and Performing Arts

Theater Students Perform One Act Plays Written by Creative Writing Class
The final assignment in John Jay’s Creative Writer’s Theater students find that the opportunity is a bit less

Workshop class is to write a one act play, but the final intimidating than starting off with an audition for a drama

experience is for the new playwrights to see their club production, but at times it does lead students to

characters come to life thanks to the do exactly that, said Ms.

talents of the school’s theater students. Cooke. The teachers, who

For the last six years, teachers Megan added full lighting and
Cooke and James Casey have taken sound to this year’s effort,
the plays and assigned students from say the benefits of being
Theater 3 to be directors and students comfortable presenting in
from Theater 1 and 2 classes to serve as front of an audience is a
actors. Two of the plays are rehearsed, priceless skill.

costumed, and truly worked by the “To have our students

theater students. The remaining plays writing, directing, and acting

are also performed as semi-cold reads is very exciting,” said Ms.

due to time constraints. Cooke. “For the students to

“This is an opportunity for all students to receive say they like a character and realize that he/she was born
feedback on their respective works,” said Mr. Casey. out of someone else’s imagination, someone else in the
“For seniors who just wanted another writing class, same room, is fantastic for the person who created it.”

this really puts them out of their comfort zone. It’s

fabulous for them to see their work actually performed.”

Special Performance of Sound of Music
& 5th Graders Question RCK Actors

Applause dies down. The lights come up. The show is even if you don’t see the other students during classes,”
over. Or is it? he explained. The big mystery however, was “how do the
costume changes happen so quickly?” The answer was
Roy C. Ketcham’s Masque and Mime Society presented revealed when the nuns showed the dinner gowns they
“The Sound of Music” this spring, and before the public were wearing under their cloaks. “It was awesome,” said
had a chance to see the show, fifth graders from Evans, Bonnie King, Director of Fine and Performing Arts. “To
Sheafe Road, Brinckerhoff, Gayhead, Fishkill Plains, see 100 students come together to put on such a fantastic
and Kinry Road Elementary Schools were treated to a show is a thing of beauty. To see them perform it in front
special performance of Act I on March 28. of enraptured, well-behaved, and delighted fifth graders
was amazing!”
When the lights came up, elementary students stepped
up to microphones and questioned the actors. For the
high school students, it was a great opportunity to engage
with the audience and to find out what they thought of
the show. For the elementary students, it was a chance to

learn more about the arts and how to get involved.

Young students were curious about how long it took to
put the show together. Auditions were held in Novem-
ber with students rehearsing five days a week. The high

school students were asked what their
favorite part of the show was and one
actor responded his was the dinner party
scene because the entire “family” was
together. “Working on such a produc-
tion brings you close, like a family,

Fine and Performing Arts 15

Masque & Mime Cabaret Supports Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

The drama club at Roy C. Ketcham produced a cabaret “There are a lot of things going on in the world right

night to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and now,” said Bobby Galletta, Masque and Mime President.

raised $2,500 in January. The amount includes proceeds “We feel that there should be more of a spotlight on trying

from a silent auction and dessert buffet. to find a cure for AIDS. By putting on this special show,

we feel like we are helping to make a change and we are

happy to do so.”

This is the fourth year the students have choreographed,
staged, performed, and scripted the benefit show. Kate
Valdivia, an alumna of RCK, was the accompanist.

Several students visited Michael DiBianco, the outreach
coordinator in New York City, before the benefit to learn
more about the causes the organization supports.

Fine and Performing Arts Augment Student Achievement and Experience

Studies have found that fine and performing arts offer instrument choices and attended small group sessions

benefits to students, including increasing confidence, with a band or orchestra teacher. They were able to “test

imagination, concentration, and communication skills. It drive” instrument choices. Teachers evaluated arm length,

also helps to develop a healthy appreciation of culture strength, and lip positions.

and the arts. WCSD offers many opportunities for “I think it’s great you get to try the instruments and learn
students to express their creativity and talents in the arts. their names,” said Oak Grove student Isabella LaPolla.

The chance to learn an instrument begins in the fifth She wants to play the cello because she feels it will be the

grade. In February, 778 fourth grade students attended easiest to play.

the annual Instrumental Exploration Day at Roy C. “I think it’s important to choose well because when you
Ketcham or John Jay High Schools.
get into fifth grade you have to practice every night,” said

Instrumental teachers, students, and ensembles performed Nicholas Farrell from Oak Grove. He wants to play the

a variety of selections from a myriad of genres, allowing saxophone because his mom said it sounds really nice

the fourth graders to hear the ranges and tone of the and is not too loud.

instruments and to learn about what role they play in

an ensemble. At both RCK and JJHS, selections from

traditional large ensemble pieces, Mario Brothers, the

Avengers, Star Wars and other iconic works were played.

High school students shared how the music program is

like a “family” to them and how

they have made “life-long friends”

through band and orchestra. One

student advised, “you can play

anything, any song you want,

as long

as you

practice.”

Fourth
graders
picked
their top
three

16

Focus on STEAM

Full STEAM Ahead in WCSD! John Jay Hosts
Science Olympiad;
The WCSD is full STEAM ahead with the work around enhancing Science, Team Advanced to States
Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) opportunities
for all students. John Jay’s Science Olympiad team
High School and Junior High School students are able to participate in a placed an impressive 37 out of 678
variety of courses and clubs directly related to STEAM. Some of these teams in New York State this year at
include Project Lead the Way (PLTW) courses, Science Olympiad, Robotics, LeMoyne College March 15-16. The
First Lego League, Math Club, and the Art Club. team placed third at the Mid-Hudson
At the elementary level, students have the opportunity to participate in Regional competition which was hosted
a variety of STEAM opportunities depending on the school they attend. by WCSD at John Jay High School for
Some of these activities include: STEAM Day, Early Morning Math Club the first time.
with the Math & Physics Exploration Center, First Lego League, and
STEAM-based assembly programs, such as Mad Science. In addition, “We were excited John Jay’s Science
all elementary teachers have the opportunity to work with the STEAM Olympiad team moved on to the New
Professional Development Specialist, John Sammon. York State competition again this
This year, the Festival of the Arts, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 year,” said Ian Freeman who serves
p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Mesier Park in Wappingers Falls, will host two as a Science Olympiad coach along
STEAM tables which will have a variety of activities for the public to view with Margaret Loh. “As impressed as
the K-12 STEAM continuum. The Festival will move to RCK if there is we were by the hard work put forth
by our students, we were completely
inclement weather. Some of these activities will include: blown away by the combined efforts
Elementary Activities/Demonstrations: of everyone in the school district
community who helped make the
•  Circuit Bugs   regional competition happen.”
•  Break-Out EDU Family Challenge  
•  Keva Planks   Area high schools competed in
•  Straw Beezs  various scientific challenges including
•  Robotics Demonstration forensics, thermodynamics, chemistry,
•  FLL Team Demonstrations  and astronomy. John Jay had nearly
•  Collaborative Art Exhibition 50 students participate and they won
•  3D Snowflake Exhibition 23 medals. Among the awards, was a
•  Makey Makey Project Exhibition first place medal for Designer Genes
Secondary Activities/Demonstrations: for Amy Zhou and Dominic Castaldi
•  JJHS Robotics Demonstration Roy C. Ketcham High School was
•  Science Olympiad Demo/Exhibits represented by two teams and 10
•  Art Exhibit students took home medals.
•  Tech Ed Exhibit
•  Astronomy Constellation Tower Exhibit Joe Sonntag, a retired John Jay teacher,
•  Duct Tape Boat Challenge and Tad Herman, a current physics
•  Spaghetti Marshmallow Challenge and technology teacher, organized the
John Jay’s State-level •  Index Card Challenge  competition, which involved more
Science Olympiad Team •  STEAM it Up Bistro Night Documentary Series than 100 volunteers. Principal David
Kedzielawa and Adam Panzer, WCSD
Director of Math and Science, hosted
the awards ceremony. Colette Plassman
and Jeremy Kermani, teachers who
coach the new Science Olympiad teams
at Van Wyck Junior High School and
Wappingers Junior High School, also
helped.

Focus on STEAM 17

STEAM Unit Features Weather Warning System and Green Screen Technology

The Weather Channel experts have nothing on Fishkill Students were challenged to make a model of the Village
Elementary third graders who
of Fishkill and to create a structure to reduce the impact
completed realistic broadcasts
of rising waters. After successfully saving the village,
about asimulated weather
scientists used Scratch to code a warning system and then
emergency during a learning
created broadcast videos using green screen technology.
unit on hazardous weather.
For the grand finale, scientists learned how to
Teachers, Tara Koehler
use Makey-Makey electricity kits. The kits
and Michelle Berry,
wereconnected to their models of Fishkill and the
collaborated with John
computer. When water was added to the models and
Sammon, Professional
touched the Makey-Makey clip, the warning system
Development Specialist,
was triggered to play on the computer. The blare of
and Dan Roberto,
the warning tone signaled a successful project. Mission
Technology Integration
accomplished!
Teacher, to create an all-

encompassing STEAM unit on

hazardous weather. The objective was for students to

create a weather warning system.

Students learned about electricity, the water cycle, and
developed knowledge about the causes and effects of
hazardous weather and how to reduce the impacts of
possible extreme weather. Students used many different
technology modalities such as, Google classroom, a Hyper
document, Flashcard Factory for content vocabulary,
Google drawings, Makey-Makey Kits to build circuits,
Scratch.com for coding the warning signal along with
their recorded voices, and green screen video recording.

At Myers Corners First Grade Science Focuses on Sun, Stars, Sound & More

First graders at Myers Corners Elementary School have been
busy studying patterns of the sun, moon, and stars. One activity
involved making sundials and testing them outside. While
delving deeper into the study of sunlight angles, students learned
that people once told time based upon the sun and shadows. After
learning more about shadows, children engaged in a game of
shadow tag outside.

Vocabulary development was a large component of this unit.
Students were exposed to new words, such as illumination and
orbit, and were able to use the new vocabulary when discussing the
moon orbiting the Earth and the Earth orbiting the sun.

This spring, students studied light and sound, learning specifically
how sound can be heard. Like all aspects of the curriculum this
year, lessons included hands-on experiments and investigations.
During one lab activity, students tapped tuning forks to hear and
feel vibration. Some students connected science and music class,
observing how some instruments respond and vibrate when played.

18

Focus on STEAM

Project-based Learning at Brinckerhoff is Out of this World

Upon completion of astronomy studies in science, and geometry studies in math, Mr.
LaSusa’s sixth graders switched into project mode to extend their learning.
In astronomy, the students had the opportunity to choose one out of five project options
to further their studies. They researched, took notes, discussed information, and designed
well thought out displays, to demonstrate their knowledge. Their astronomy projects
were “out of this world.”
In math, students completed two geometry tasks according to specific rubrics. However,
student creativity was fostered as they were encouraged to creatively cultivate an
imaginary city of their choice. Additionally, in geometry, students were asked to choose
an item, person, or something of interest to them and then to design a three-dimensional
structure. They needed to sketch and plan out the “nets” of each component of their
structure on graph paper. A “net” is the two-dimensional appearance of a three-dimensional structure opened up flat.
Next they had to color, cut out, and assemble their projects, prior to calculating their surface area and volume. The
results were awesome, creative, and adorable or “acute.”
“We try to have as much fun with project-based learning in my classes as we can because it really shows a different
side of each child,” said Mr. LaSusa. “It’s a collaborative process, which requires time management, and staying on
task, but most importantly, the room is a constant buzz of sharing time together and working peacefully, as we grow

as students and people.”

Students Study Space Innovation

The sixth grade teaching team at Oak Grove thought a

great way to get their students engaged and interested

in Next Generation Science Standards was by focusing

on creating persuasive presentations

on any aspect of space or space

innovation.

Ms. McCabe, Mr. Lander, and Ms.

Dambra and their classes created their

own “Stellar Award” process in which

Evans Students Study Native Americans each student researched and learned
about a different innovation in space.
Second grade students went to Bowdoin Park in March to They then drafted a formal presentation
learn how Native Americans made maple syrup from sugar to give to their classmates. Students had a great time
maple trees and how it can be made today.
building models, designing digital presentations, and

Earlier in the year, fourth grade students in Mrs. Snyder’s discussing the various topics, including the Mars Rover
and Ms. Marchese’s classes at Evans Elementary School and Alan Shepard, the first American to travel into
presented their final longhouse project to their families and space. Also addressed was the critical question, “Does
peers in February. The students built their own longhouses extraterrestrial life really exist?”
To conclude the study unit, students voted to select
to correspond with the social studies unit that focused on the top three presentations and those students received a
“Three Worlds Meet in New York State,” referring to how “Stellar Award.”
Europe, Africa, and Native Americans came to co-exist in

what is now New York.

Students studied how Native Americans and the
Haudenosaunee Tribe lived. Students were challenged to
think about how they would use natural resources to create
their longhouses and what challenges they might face
when living in a longhouse.

19

John Jay Senior High School
Amy Zhou • Valedictorian
Amy Zhou is honored to represent the John Jay Class of 2019 as Valedictorian, and she is
incredibly grateful to her parents and all of the John Jay teachers and community members
who have helped her along the way. Currently, she serves as President of John Jay’s Future
Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Science Olympiad, and the school newspaper.
Through her participation in FBLA and Science Olympiad, she has collected many State-
level awards including State firsts in Economics (FBLA), Public Speaking (FBLA), and
Anatomy and Physiology (Science Olympiad). She also has been on the John Jay varsity
swim team for four years and received All-League status (2016, 2017). Outside of school,
Amy is the assistant coach for the Battle of the Books team at a local library and she works
as a tutor. In the future, she hopes to unite her love of science, economics, and law to help
make a meaningful impact on the world.
Amy plans to continue her studies at Harvard University in the fall with a focus in electrical
engineering and economics. She hopes to go into law and policy in the future.

Tanvi Athavale • Salutatorian

John Jay Salutatorian Tanvi Athavale is honored to be Salutatorian of John Jay’s
Class of 2019. She has worked hard throughout her educational career to achieve
her goals both in and out of the classroom. She currently serves as Vice President of
Future Business Leaders of America and has been a four-year member of the John
Jay field hockey team, earning the Section 1 Golden Dozen Award in her senior
season. Outside of school, Tanvi is a passionate violinist of more than 13 years and has
attended the All-Eastern Conference (2019) and the New York All-State Conference
(2017, 2018). She is also working on her Girl Scout Gold Award, completed an
internship at IBM Poughkeepsie’s Materials Lab, and attended Stanford University’s
Pre-collegiate Summer Institutes. Her goal for the future is to become a Product
Manager at a global technology company and to work at the intersection of computer
science, design, and business.
Upon graduation, Tanvi plans to study computer/information science with a dual degree or minor in violin
performance. She will attend either Cornell University or Northwestern University.

Van Wyck Junior High School Completes Creative Bottlecap Walkway Mural

of Mrs. Theresa Maher The 3 ft x 6 ft mural will be donated

and Ms. Dana Nordstrom, to the Walkway and be displayed

the students volunteered to in their outdoor pavilion later this

work on the mural in their spring.

free periods throughout

the school day. There

were about 35 students

involved in the month-long

Students in the Van Wyck project, some sorting caps,

Innovation Center recently painting, sketching, and gluing.

completed a bottle-cap mural of Staff members and their families,

the Walkway Over The Hudson. along with students involved in the

Students felt a community recycling program at the school,

connection to the Walkway and many collected the bottle caps. The mural

students shared stories about their features a QR code that directs

visits there. Under the supervision people to the Walkway’s website.

20

Orchard View Alternative High School

Todd Weaver • Valedictorian

Todd Weaver is honored to be Valedictorian of Orchard View Alternative High School’s
graduating class of 2019. Todd is the President of Student Government and Chief Editor
for the Wellness Newsletter. He leads the school and is a role model for his peers. He is
always available for students needing help, whether it is for student work or emotional
support.

He is grateful for the opportunities and experiences that he was able to encounter during
his two years at Orchard View. Todd has spent countless hours thinking of ideas to
improve the school as a whole, from organizing fundraisers and trips, to creating the
first Orchard View prom. He is excited for his future at Mount St. Mary College and is
honored to be a part of Orchard View’s legacy.

Medalie Gonzalez • Salutatorian

Medalie Gonzalez is immensely honored to be the Orchard View Salutatorian for
the Class of 2019. She has the pleasure to be the first student to attend Orchard View
Alternative High School all four years of high school; since the opening of the new
building. Medalie spends her free time volunteering at the Zion Church Food Pantry in
Wappingers Falls, along with assisting the Student Intake Focus Group at her school.
Medalie will be attending Dutchess Community College in the fall. She plans to earn an
undergraduate degree in liberal arts and sciences. Her dream is to become a veterinarian
as she has dealt with animals since a young age. She would like to follow her family’s
footsteps and work with animals. Medalie’s most-liked course was astronomy, taught by
her favorite educator, Nicholas Perino, as well as teaching assistant, Susan Argeta. She
would like to thank everyone at Orchard View who has supported her throughout the
years. Medalie is so grateful for the overflowing positivity and encouragement she has
received from her peers, the faculty, and her family.

Vassar Road’s Lip Sync Performance Benefits St. Jude Children’s Hospital
Vassar Elementary School hosted its 5th Annual Lip Sync are entirely grateful to Technology Integration Teacher,

show in March and raised $1,661 from the door and Mr. Nikola, who served as DJ, as well as Deputy

concessions. A Girl Scout troop ran the booth and offered Superintendent, Dwight Bonk; Assistant Superintendent,

snacks for the audience to enjoy. Daren Lolkema; and Rick Zolzer from the Hudson Valley

Six brave acts got the crowd Renegades, who served as judges.

going with students filling a special Each year, Vassar chooses to support a different

taped off section right in front of charity. This year, proceeds benefited St. Jude

the stage. “Baby Shark,” one of Children’s Hospital.

the most viral phenomena on the

Internet now, had the students

singing along. The Beach Boys

“Surfin USA” was also popular

because performers tossed out

colorful leis to the audience.

Mrs. Daley and Mrs. Marvullo

did an impressive medley including

“Let it Go” from “Frozen” and

Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.”

Principal Mr. Dominick wowed the crowd with “Swing”

by Trace Adkins and “Shout,” complete with togas. We

21

Roy C. Ketcham High School
Eileen Liang • Valedictorian
Eileen Liang is grateful for the opportunities she has had in her four years at Ketcham.
Among her many achievements, Eileen is proud to have been named as a Stamps
Scholar at the Georgia Institute of Technology and a National Merit Scholarship
recipient. She dedicates her time to several academic clubs, serving as President of
Ketcham’s Science Olympiad and Math Teams.

Outside of school, Eileen engages with the community, working at the
Anderson Center for Autism using data analytics to reveal new and
innovative ways to improve their quality of life. She has also taken classes
through the Columbia University Science Honors Program and works with
children at a local tutoring center. She would like to thank her friends and teachers
for an incredibly rewarding high school experience and her parents for their endless
support and constant encouragement.

Though currently undecided in her choice of college, Eileen plans to major in data science with a focus in human-
centered design with the hope that she can continue to make a positive difference.

Kreena Vora • Salutatorian

Kreena Vora has worked hard academically and is Salutatorian of her graduating
class at Roy C. Ketcham High School. She was named a finalist in the National Merit
Scholarship Competition. Over the last four years, she has been extremely involved in
various extra-curricular activities such as Math Team, Science Olympiad, and Debate
Club.

Outside of school, she is involved in cultural activities and volunteers through a
youth group. Last summer, she spent her time volunteering at Town Hall. After
growing up in the suburbs her whole life, she plans on living in a bustling city in the
future, and wants to travel and see the whole world. Five years from now, Kreena hopes
to have graduated from college and to be attending law school. She has dreamed of
being a lawyer for years and is excited to take the next step toward that goal.

After graduation, Kreena is looking forward to attending college, but is still undecided on where. In college, she is
considering majoring in political science.

Art Teams Up with Physical Education to Create Super Star Cornhole Game

Team spirit is thriving at Wappingers Junior High is essential and has numerous benefits in addition to
School. Ms. McCusker’s 7th grade art students and cardiovascular health, disease prevention, and improved
the SUNY New Paltz interns certainly demonstrated cognitive function. Exercise also helps keep our moods
that with a recent project. In collaboration with the in balance, contributes to a good night’s rest, controls
Physical Education Department, the dynamic crew weight and it’s fun!
designed motifs to adorn cornhole platforms that are
being used by students in their physical education
classes.

Geometry, symmetry, proportion, and balance were
all considered as everyone enjoyed learning and
refining painting techniques using WJHS school
colors - vibrant reds and blues. Students will be able
to hone their gross and fine motor skills in physical
education while enjoying these highly spirited works
of art for years to come. Staying physically active

Wappingers Central School District

Fine & Performing Arts

PERFORMING ENSEMBLES~ MUSICAL DEVELOPMENT~ FINE ARTS

Big Band ~ Concert Band ~ Concert Choir
Gr. 4- 8 Chorus, Band & Orchestra for every grade level~ Jazz Band ~ Madrigal Choir
Mixed Chorus ~ Ninth Grade Band~ Select Orchestra ~ String Orchestra ~ Symphonic Band
Wind Ensemble~ General Music K-6 ~ Music Theory I ~ Music Theory II ~Advanced Placement
Music Theory ~ Music Workshop~ Applied Music~ Art K- 6 ~ Studio in Art Photo-media
Media Arts II & III ~ Photography II & III~ Advanced Art I & II~ Advanced Placement Studio
Art ~ Portfolio Development ~ SIA Ceramics II & III ~ SIA Communications Systems
Advertising Design ~ Sculpture & Sculpture II~ SIA 3-D Design II & III ~ Design works

AWARDS & RECOGNITION
WCSD holds an ongoing distinction of being one of The Best Communities for Music Education

offering more than 50 ensembles to our students and is a member of
NYSTATA, NYSSMA, and DCMEA.

2 Students were selected for the NAFME All-Eastern Division Conference
54 Students were selected for the NYSSMA Area All-State Conference

6 Students were selected for the NYSSMA Conference All-State Conference
55 Students were selected for the DCMEA JR. High All-County Festival
32 Students were selected for DCMEA Elementary All-County Festival

55 Students were awarded a Scholastic GOLD Key Award at the Regional level
102 Students were awarded a Scholastic SILVER Key Award at the Regional level

1 Student is a National Medal Scholastic Award Winner
5 Students were selected for the Garrison Art Center’s Mentorship Program
70 Students were awarded with the NYSMATA "Exemplary Media Arts Award"

3 Students won distinction of "President's Award" from NYSMATA

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Students across the District will participate in more than 90 performances and showings this year.
Students continued collaborating with local artists & arts organizations throughout the school year.
Join us at our Festival of the Arts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2019 in Mesier Park

to celebrate WCSD arts! (to be held at RCK in case of inclement weather)

• A Core Value in Action •
Everyone can realize their potential and when they do, both they and the community thrive.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE SCHOLAR ATHLETE TEAMS AND23
INDIVIDUALS FROM JOHN JAY AND RCK

NYS Public High School Athletic Association and Wappingers Central School
District recognizes the hard work of our student athletes not only in their sport,
but in the classroom. In order to be considered a scholar athletic team, 75% of the

roster must have an average of 90% or higher. In addition, NYSPHSAA now
recognizes individual students who play on a team with a 90% or higher average.

FALL RCK ATHLETICS FALL JOHN JAY ATHLETICS

Boys Cross Country • Girls Cross Country • Boys Cross Country • Girls Cross Country •
Cheerleading • Field Hockey • Field Hockey • Girls Soccer • Girls
Swimming • Girls Tennis • Volleyball
Girls Soccer • Girls Swimming •
Girls Tennis • Volleyball

TEAMS WITH STUDENTS WITH AVERAGES OVER 90 BUT DID NOT MAKE SCHOLAR TEAM STATUS:
JJ Competitive Cheer: 6 individuals (team average 89.29) JJ Football: 17 individuals (team average 89.60)

JJ Boys Soccer: 6 individuals (team average 89.75) RCK Football: 6 individuals (team average 88.13)

RCK Boys Soccer: 8 individuals (team average 89.99)

WINTER RCK ATHLETICS WINTER WAPPINGERS ATHLETICS WINTER JOHN JAY ATHLETICS

RCK Boys Basketball WCSD Gymnastics Boys Basketball • Girls
RCK Girls Basketball WCSD Boys Swim Basketball • Boys Bowling •
Girls Bowling • Cheerleading •
RCK Boys Track
RCK Girls Track Boys Track • Girls Track

TEAMS WITH STUDENTS WITH AVERAGES OVER 90 BUT DID NOT MAKE SCHOLAR TEAM STATUS:

JJ Wrestling: 3 individuals (team average 87.71) • RCK Boys Bowling: 3 individuals AAEtcxhaAcldeecetlhilmceiesnivccaisenn!gdin
(team average 87.27) • RCK Cheerleading: 8 individuals (team average 88.17)
RCK Girls Soccer: 3 individuals (team average 89.17) • RCK Wrestling: 5 individuals
(team average 86.33)

WCSD ATHLETICS – 2018 - 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Roy C. Ketcham Highlights - RCK Wrestler Bredan Carroll placed 4th in the New York
State Championships and was the Section I champion for his weight class. RCK Girls basketball player
Katie Ray Wall has become the All-Time WCSD points leader for RCK with a career of 2,051 points.
RCK Field Hockey Team was the 2018 Fall League Champion.

John Jay Highlights - JJ Football's undefeated season included seven shutouts, winning the League
Championship and earning a place in the Sectional Class AA Finals. JJ Boys Soccer lost to RCK in the
Sectional Semi-Finals. JJ Cross Country's Jack Ninos represented the school at the State Championships.
JJ Girls Soccer's Kaylie Longin was voted League Player of the Year and was an All-State selection. Coach
CJ Greenwood was voted Coach of the Year by the Mid-Hudson Officials Association. JJ Boys Bowling
won the League Championships. JJ State qualifiers include Wrestler Tyler Albis, Track & Field's Bella
Kieser in the 1500m racewalk and Jonathan Mahon 300m, and from Girls Bowling Victoria Pacacha.

WCSD Highlights - Additional State qualifiers were WCSD Boys Swimmer Matt McGregor in the
200 IM, and WCSD gymnast Yasmin Fells.

En Route RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Non-Profit Org

U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit No. 934
Newburgh, NY

Polling Check Mailing Label for YOUR Polling Location
Locations
Fishkill Elementary School

20 Church Street, Fishkill NY 12524
Spring Concert is May 21 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Parking will be available.

Fishkill Plains Elementary School

17 Lake Walton Road, Wappingers Falls NY 12590
Parent University & Orientation are May 21 at 6:00 p.m. Parking will be available.

Gayhead Elementary School

15 Entry Road, Hopewell Jct. NY 12533

Myers Corners Elementary School

156 Myers Corners Road, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590

Vassar Road Elementary School

174 Vassar Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

Wappingers Junior HS

30 Major MacDonald Way, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
James S. Evans Spring Concert is May 21 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at WJHS in the auditorium.

Parking will be available.

Questions? Contact District Clerk Alberta Pedro • Phone: 845-298-5000

Vote Tuesday, May 21
7:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Senior Citizens Socialize and Enjoy Lunch at VWJHS

Van Wyck Junior High School’s Student Government hosted the 14th Annual Senior Citizens
Luncheon on April 10. The library was transformed into a lovely café and 42 senior citizens
attended to enjoy lunch, music, and socializing with each other and the student servers.

“The students are very polite and know how to host,” said Mildred Matthews, who was
attending for the first time.

“I think it’s absolutely wonderful. All of these kids are sweet
and very kind and so are the teachers and principal,” said
Francine Fanuele, who was also attending for the first time.
“It’s all very lovely.”

Attendee Linda Rodriguez thinks schools throughout the
county should do the same. “I think all the other schools should
do this too. It’s wonderful; the students are just so nice.”