Budget Hearing Monday, May 7, 7 pm Southwestern High School Auditorium Annual Vote and Board Election Tuesday, May 15, 7-9 am and 2-9 pm Southwestern High School Lobby SEE PAGES 5-8 for BUDGET & ELECTION INFORMATION Spotlight Southwestern Central School District May 2012 Budget Issue The mission of the Southwestern Central School District is to develop students’ potential for positive contributions to society as self- sustaining individuals. To accomplish this mission, the administration and staff will be models in the pursuit of excellence and will provide appropriate learning environments which encourage respect for self, others, school and community. Southwestern Central School District 600 Hunt Road, WE Jamestown, NY 14701 716-484-1136 www.swcs.wnyric.org Inside... All-WNY Academics .....2 Budget Info............ 5-8 High School Musical .....3 Middle School Motto ....9 Science Fair ............ 11 Pre-K/Kindergarten Registration ..........2 See Page 3!
Transcript
Budget HearingMonday, May 7, 7 pm
Southwestern High School Auditorium
Annual Vote and Board ElectionTuesday, May 15, 7-9 am and 2-9 pm
Southwestern High School Lobby
SEE PAGES 5-8 for BUDGET & ELECTION INFORMATION
SpotlightSouthwestern Central School District
May 2012Budget Issue
The mission of the Southwestern Central School District is to develop students’ potential for positive contributions to society as self-sustaining individuals. To accomplish this mission, the administration and staff will be models in the pursuit of excellence and will provide appropriate learning environments which encourage respect for self, others, school and community.
Southwestern Central School District600 Hunt Road, WEJamestown, NY 14701716-484-1136www.swcs.wnyric.org
Inside...All-WNY Academics .....2Budget Info............ 5-8High School Musical .....3Middle School Motto ....9Science Fair ............ 11Pre-K/Kindergarten
Registration ..........2
See Page 3!
2 Spotlight
The Board of Education meets in the Board Room at the Middle School building unless noted otherwise, on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m.
May 2012 7 Budget Hearing 8 Regular Meeting 15 Budget Vote & Election 22 Work Session, ES LibraryJune 2012 12 Regular Meeting 26 Work Session, MS LibraryJuly 2012 10 Organizational/Regular MeetingAugust 2012 14 Regular Meeting 28 Work Session, HS Library
SWCSBoard of
Education2011-12
Pictured from left, front row, Mr. James Butler, Vice President; Mrs. Uma Vejendla, Mr. Kurt Gustafson, Mr. Timothy Hollern, President; back row, Ms. Lynne Gruel, Mr. William T. Burk, Mr. David Turnbull, Mr. Robert Stevens, Sr. and Mr. Michael Mogenhan. Co-Student Ex-Officio members, Robert Newell and Jason Porter, are not pictured.
Named to All-WNY Academic TeamTwo Southwestern High School seniors have been
named to Business First’s 2012 All-Western New York Academic Team.
Drew Blasius (First Team) and Claire Webster (Special Mention) qualified for this year’s list of the 100 most outstanding high school seniors in the eight-county region. Winners were chosen for their records of academic excellence, school leadership and community involvement. The top 25 were named to the First Team, 25 runners-up to the Second Team, and another 50 to the Special Mention list.
The two seniors were also named Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program.
“This is an extremely difficult honor to win,” said Jack Connors, president and publisher of Business First. “The Academic Team is extraordinarily exclusive. There are roughly 20,000 seniors in Western New York’s high schools, and we’ve selected only 100 for this year’s Academic Team. That’s the top one-half of one percent, the best and brightest students anywhere in our region.”
Schools throughout the eight-county area were asked to nominate their smartest and most accomplished students for consideration by a nine-member committee, which included seven admissions directors at area colleges and two Business First editors. A total of 117 schools responded with 415 nominees. The complete list of 100 honorees - along with their photos and profiles - will be published in the Business First 2012-2013 Guide to Western New York Schools to be published on June 15.
Andrew Blasius
Claire Webster
Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program(UPK) Now Accepting Applications
Southwestern Central School District is now accepting applications for the Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program. Admission is by lottery drawing and the program is contingent on New York State funding. Parents can come to the Elementary School Office at any time during normal school hours and sign up for Pre-K. Children must be four years old by December 1, 2012 to be eligible.
For questions about the program, contact the Elementary School Office at 664-1881.
Kindergarten RegistrationAny family that has a kindergarten eligible child (five years of age by December 1,
2012) is asked to register their child(ren) by contacting the Elementary School at 664-1881.
Children with DisabilitiesAny family feeling that their child(ren), age 3 and older, may have disabilities that have
not been identified, should contact the Elementary School Principal at 664-1881 or Pupil Services at 664-4675.
(Photo from Mrs. Susie Stuart)
Spotlight 3
Upcoming EvEnts
(Continued on Page 4)
May 20121-3 Kindergarten Round Up4 MS Spring Pictures June ACT Deadline5 SAT7 Budget Hearing for Proposed 2012-2013 Budget, HS Auditorium, 7:00 p.m.8 June SAT Deadline Board of Education regular meeting, MS Board Room, 7:30 p.m.15 Annual Budget Vote & Board Election 7-9 a.m. & 2-9 p.m., HS Lobby HS Lawn Social 6th-12th Grade Band/ Orchestra/Choir Spring Concert, 6:00 p.m.16 National Jr. Honor Society Inductions, HS Auditorium, 7:00 p.m.17 Kindergarten Round Up Parent Meeting, Kindergarten House18 5th Grade Spelling Bee, 1:30 p.m.19 High School Prom21 ES PTO Meeting, 7:00 p.m.22 Board of Education work session, ES Library, 7:30 p.m.23 HS Top 10 Luncheon, HS Library, 11:00 a.m.25-31 Project KNOW, 8th Grade Universal Pre-K Applications Due28 Memorial Day-School Closed Busti & Lakewood Parades30 HS Top 5 Ice Cream Social, HS Library, 2:50 p.m.31 6th Grade Outdoor EdJune 20121 Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Deadline 6th Grade Outdoor Ed.1-8 Project KNOW, 8th Grade5 Music Department Awards, 6:00 p.m.
HOME IMPROVEMENT - Home Depot in Lakewood hosted an apprenticeship workshop for the Southwestern High School students of Mrs. Marygrace Guarino in February. The apprenticeship involved instruction in measuring, taping and painting techniques by Home Depot staff. “The workshop was a great success,” said Mrs. Guarino. “The Home Depot staff said our students were outstanding, well-behaved and very polite. I am very proud of our students.”
“Anything Goes” Performed at SWHSThis year’s high school musical, “Anything Goes” has been called one of the most
ambitious and professional in the wonderful tradition of theater at Southwestern High School. The musical, a comedy featuring an adventure across the Atlantic aboard the S.S. American, lit up the high school auditorium on March 22-24.
The Pit Orchestra worked diligently to produce the best sound for the musical’s wonderful Cole Porter tunes. Wardrobe was extravagant with each character costumed in 1930s style with hair and make-up matched to the several wardrobe changes ranging from day wear to evening wear to travel suits. The show was directed by Christine Beichner with help from Derek Houser (assistant director), Sue Huther (vocal director), Stephen Bush (technical director), Janice Carlson (pit conductor), student choreographer Megan Maley and student assistant director Alora Sherbert.
Director Beichner commented, “Steve Bush is an incredible asset to this school and the community. He understands the stage and he works incredibly hard, putting in countless hours, to make certain that no detail is overlooked.”
She continued, “Tech crew members are always the first to arrive to the theatre before the shows. This year’s show had set changes for every scene with massive pieces that were moved and rotated in under 30 seconds. It’s an incredible feat considering that the show is run by students, many of whom have had little or no tech crew/stage background before this.”
In summary, Caitlyn Brown and Megan Maley, Southwestern student actors noted, “Participating in a musical takes an incredible amount of hard work and devotion. The many hours we dedicate to rehearsals, the passion, and the love of what we do can easily be compared to the way any athlete feels about his or her sport. On average the cast spends four days a week and twelve hours in scheduled practices alone until March, and then rehearsal hours almost double and practice is every night!”
All of that hard work paid off with an amazing performance of “Anything Goes.”
“Anything Goes” cast members pictured on the front cover, bottom row, from left, Arielle Lewis, Abbey Andrews (Angel), Francesca Galbato (Angel), Alex Bower (Steward), Megan Maley (Reno), and Morgan Paterniti (Captain). (Photo courtesy of Ms. Beichner)
Upcoming EvEnts(Continued from Page 3)
Annual Budget Vote & Board of Education
Election Tuesday, May 15 7-9 am & 2-9 pm
Southwestern High School Lobby
4 Spotlight
6 5th Grade Parent Orientation, MS Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.7 MS Awards Assembly, HS Auditorium, 2:50 p.m.8 ES Lawn Social, 5 to 8:00 p.m.9 ACT11 Senior Parade Senior Breakfast ES Flag Day Festivities12 HS Awards Assembly, HS Auditorium, 8:15 a.m. Battle of Classes, 12 p.m. Board of Education regular meeting, MS Board Room, 7:30 p.m.13 Kindergarten Sing-A-Long, ES Gym13-22 Regents Exams14 5th Grade Recognition, 1:30 p.m.21 Graduation Practice, 12:30 p.m. Baccalaureate, 7:30 p.m. End of 4th Quarter22 HS Graduation, Reg Lenna, 7:30 p.m. Rating Day26 Board of Education work session, MS Library, 7:30 p.m.29 MS & HS Report CardsJuly 20124 Independence Day-School Closed10 Board of Education Organizational/Regular Meeting, MS Board Room, 7:30 p.m.August 201214 Board of Education regular meeting, MS Board Room, 7:30 p.m.28 Board of Education work session, HS Library, 7:30 p.m.30 9th Grade Orientation, 3 p.m.
High School Students of the MonthSeptember, October, and November 2011
Carter Windoft, a freshman, is the son of Amy and Casey Windoft of Lakewood. He has received honors including being named to the National Junior Honor Society and the Five-Year National Guild Award for the Piano. He is active in both school and community and participates in golf and skiing. His hobbies include racing go-carts. His favorite teacher is Mrs. McKotch, “because she makes things easy to understand and is always willing to help.” Carter is undecided about which college he will attend but he’d like to become an architect.Freshman Madeline Evans is the daughter of Dan and Connie Evans of Jamestown. Honors she has received include being named to the National Junior Honor Society and Skiing State Finals for racing for two years. She participates in JV volleyball and J3 Holiday Valley Ski Race Team. Her hobbies include sailing and swimming. Her favorite teacher is Mr. Becker, “because he was always there for her.” Maddie would like to go to college.Freshman Gabrielle Hoose is the daughter of Joe and Johneen Hoose of Lakewood. Studio Art and English are her favorite subjects and she is a member of the Girls Varsity Swim Team (since seventh grade) and a member of varsity track. She participated in a Section 6 swimming qualifier for 100 fly, 200 IM and medley relay. Swimming, scrapbooking, and spending time with friends and her many siblings are her hobbies. Mrs. Lovecchio, Mrs. Brown and Miss Beichner are her favorite teachers “because of their great senses of humor.” She is undecided on a college but plans to go into the field of medicine.Rahim Karimi, a freshman, is the son of Rajabali and Mumtaz Karimi of Lakewood. He has received honors including being named to the National Junior Honor Society, Academic Achievement in Science, Academic Achievement in Math, and Honor Roll. He participates in JV soccer, the choir program since fifth grade, summer soccer, Varsity tennis, and baseball. His hobbies include tennis, soccer, volunteering at Lakewood Library, volunteering at church, computer games, reading, biking, and skiing. His favorite teacher is Mr. Putney, “because he always challenges my intellect with new things.” Rahim would like to go to Harvard University for business administration and then manage a division of a large company.Alex Bower, a sophomore, is the son of Rob and Laura Roush of Lakewood. His honors include being named Rookie of the Year in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Coach’s Award for Crew. He participates in soccer, Chautauqua Lake Rowing Association Crew, Choraliers, and SWCS musicals. His hobbies include riding four wheelers and fishing. His favorite teacher is Miss Beichner, “because she is very funny.” Alex plans to go to JCC for two years and then transfer to Cornell or Princeton to become an environmental engineer.A sophomore, Daisie Bancroft lives in Lakewood. She has been named to the Honor Roll and participates in Impact, tennis, and band (saxophone). Her hobbies include reading, hanging out with friends, and listening to music. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Brown, “because she’s funny and nice.” Daisie hasn’t selected a college but would like to go into physical therapy.Holly Marie Pattison, a junior, lives in Busti. She has been named to the Honor Roll throughout high school and was inducted into the National Honor Society. She participates in choir and her hobbies include reading, hanging out with friends and family, volunteering, shopping, hiking, and traveling. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Mazzone, “because she’s always pushing you to work your hardest, not to mention she’s hilarious.” Holly would like to attend JCC and transfer to the Academy of the Sciences in Philadelphia for a degree in pharmacy.Junior Veronica Schuver is the daughter of Bill and DeeDee Schuver of Lakewood. Her favorite subjects are math and English. She is a member of National Honor Society, New York Area All-County Band, dives
on the Southwestern Swim Team and plays violin, clarinet and piano. Her interests are writing, playing piano and painting and drawing. Mrs. Lindquist, who “brightens her day,” is her favorite teacher. Veronica plans to major in math or English in college.Senior Alora Sherbert is the daughter of Christi Sherbert of Lakewood. She is a member of National Honor Society and was accepted into All State Choir twice. She participates in Choraliers, band, choir, and is involved in the musical. Her hobbies include running and being with friends, singing, dancing, and Zumba. Alora would like to attend Ithaca College and major in communications and marketing with a minor in music.
Cassandra Teft, a senior, is the daughter of Stewart and Sharon Teft of Jamestown. She has been named a member of National Honor Society and won the SWCS Grand Prize in the 2011 Art Show. Her hobbies include drawing, painting, fishing, swimming, and traveling. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Brown, “because I enjoy her classes and her passion for art.” Cassandra would like to attend Mercyhurst College for Art Therapy.Senior Sara Elifritz is the daughter of James Elifritz and Ida Elifritz, both of Jamestown. She was named to National Honor Society and received the Red and Blue Track Award and the Aaron Swanson Memorial Track Award. She participates in cross country, track and field, choir and the musical. Her hobbies include running and being with friends. Sara would like to attend JCC and transfer to be a physical therapist.
December 2011, January and February 2012Alex Beckerink, a freshman, is the son of Randy and Lisa Beckerink of
Photos by Mr. Mark Kirsch
(Continued on Page 9)
Gabrielle Hoose
Veronica Schuver
Spotlight 5
2012-2013 Budget/Election Information
Why do we need to buy
buses?
Southwestern Central School holds student safety as one of its highest priorities,
including the maintenance of safe vehicles. In order to keep its bus fleet in good condition, without purchasing a large number of vehicles in any one year, the SWCS Transportation Department maintains a vehicle replacement program.
This year, the district proposes to purchase two 60-passenger buses, at a total maximum estimated cost (after trade-ins) of $197,808, and two minivans at a maximum estimated cost of $50,000. The total of the three vehicles is not to exceed $247,808.
State aid reimbursement is estimated at 70%, for a local cost of about $74,342 for the two full-size buses and two minivans.
Daniel A. GeorgeSuperintendent of Schools
A proposition to reduce the number of seats on the Board of Education from nine to seven will appear on the ballot May 15. If approved by the voters, it would become effective July 1, 2013.
Proposed 2012-13 Budget Reflects a Decrease of $459
“In summary, the budget you will vote on May 15 amounts to $25,739,850. The 2012-2013 budget will be $459 less than our current 2011-2012 budget.”
– Daniel A. George, Superintendent of Schools
The vote on the 2012-2013 budget, which was adopted by the Board of Education on April 17, will be held in the High School lobby on
May 15. In addition to the vote on the budget, there will be separate propositions for the purchase of two (2) school buses and two (2) minivans and to reduce the size of the school board from the current nine (9) members to seven (7) members. The election of three (3) board members will also be on the ballot.
This year’s budget development was challenging. Southwestern, like most public school districts in the state, has two major sources of income to rely upon: state aid and the local property tax. While state aid increased by $260,460 over the prior year under the governor’s budget proposal, it was not enough to make up for the loss of Education Jobs Fund money ($550,995) originating from the federal government. At the same time, New York State’s new tax levy cap law is in effect.
The 2012-2013 budget, which was adopted following weekly meetings held between February 28 and March 27, contains a 1.74% increase in the local property tax levy and a 2.60% decrease, as compared to the prior year, in state aid. In order to bring the budget into balance, the Board of Education substantially reduced supplies and materials, equipment and BOCES services. It was also necessary to reduce one business teacher, one music teacher, one science teacher, four elementary teachers, and a computer technician by 20%. In addition, our public information coordinator position was eliminated from the budget.
When the New York State Legislature adopted the state budget they were able to direct additional aid to our district ($176,826), which allowed us to restore a social studies position, which had been cut during the budget process and to close the remaining budget gap.
In summary, the budget you will vote on May 15 amounts to $25,739,850. The 2012-2013 budget will be $459 less than our current 2011-2012 budget. It appears that the 2012-2013 budget will increase the total annual tax bill for the owner of a $100,000 home that qualifies for a STAR exemption, by approximately $23.80.
Please read the financial analysis contained in this newsletter for a more detailed look at the 2012-2013 budget.
We, at Southwestern, are extremely proud of our school district and we know you are too! We believe that even in the face of some very difficult budget reductions, we will continue to provide, in every respect, a quality program for the students in our district.
Thank you for your on-going attendance and support at our many school activities.
Proposal to Reduce Size of SWCS Board
State Aid44%
Property Taxes46%
Approp. Fund
Balance
Misc. Income3% Reserve
s
6 Spotlight
Revenues: Where the Money Comes From
2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
State Aid $ 11,471,177 $ 11,389,587 $ 11,093,865Property Taxes 11,878,339 11,878,339 12,084,548 Assigned Appropriated Fund Balance 1,095,048 1,252,974 1,221,654 Miscellaneous Income 678,600 738,176 859,800Reserves 275,000 481,233 479,983
Total Revenue $ 25,398,164 $ 25,740,309 $ 25,739,850
TOTAL BUDGET $ 25,398,164 $ 25,740,309 $ 25,739,850 100%
Estimated 2012-13 Revenues
Reserves2%Assigned
Approp. Fund Balance 5%
Property Taxes 47%
Program65.57%
Administrative8.71%Capital
25.72%
Estimated 2012-13 Expenditures
Administrative9%
Program66%
Capital25%
StateAid43%
Misc. Income 3%
What about the tax cap?The New York State Property Tax Cap, commonly called “the 2% tax cap” that becomes effective with this budget
year follows a very complex formula to calculate the allowable tax levy increase for each municipality and school district. The formula involves adjustments to the previous year’s tax levy, exemptions for retirement contribution increases above 2% and many other factors. The tax levy limit for Southwestern Central School for 2012-13 is 1.80%.
Federal aid ended this year, and Southwestern has seen its state aid substantially reduced for the past three years. Coupled with sharply increased costs of employee retirement contributions, health insurance, utilities and other factors, an initial $1.4 million gap between revenues and expenditures existed. Substantial staffing, equipment and supplies and BOCES services cuts enacted by the Board of Education were necessary to close this budget gap.
District voters will be asked to approve a budget that increases the tax levy by 1.74%. If the budget vote fails, the Board of Education may elect to revise the proposed budget and again ask for voter approval, propose the same budget for a second vote, or adopt a contingency budget. Southwestern’s contingency budget for 2012-2013 would be $25,523,006 and the tax levy would decrease by $206,209 or 1.74%. Certain expenditures, including equipment, non-essential maintenance, and non-reimbursed public use of school facilities would be required to be eliminated, and the Board of Education could eliminate or reduce expenditures not specifically authorized by statute under a contingency budget. Additional cuts, including personnel, may also be required.
Spotlight 7
Est. Assessment Tax Value 2011 Equal. Rate Full Value (True) Tax Levy/Town % of Levy
Estimated Tax Levy 2012-13(Based on 2011 equalization rates and estimated assessments)
Budget: $ 25,739,850
8 Spotlight
SWCS Board of Education Election/Proposition
Three seats on the Southwestern Central School District Board of Education are to be elected this year. Three at-large vacancies created by the expiration on June 30 of the terms of James Butler and Michael Mogenhan and the resignation of Carl Scarpino will be filled by the three candidates receiving the largest number of votes for three-year
terms ending June 30, 2015. Potential candidates for Board of Education member had until April 16 to file a petition with 25 signatures of qualified voters.
A proposition to reduce the number of seats on the Board of Education from nine to seven will also appear on the ballot. If approved by the voters, it would become effective July 1, 2013.
My name is Rich Hartmann and I am running for election to the Southwestern Central School District Board of Education.
I attended SWCS from 1970 thru 1977 when my family relocated to the Syracuse area. After graduating high school in 1980 I enlisted In the Air Force. In 1997 I returned to the area and I am currently a supervisor with the state Office of Parks and Historical Preservation.
I live in West Ellicott with my wife, Jeanna and seven of our ten children. We currently have five children attending SWES in Pre-k through fourth grade. Next year, all seven of our school-age children will be attending schools in the district. Additionally, we are foster parents so from time to time we have foster children attending school in the district. With all that being said, I have a large stake in the success of our district.
I have many years of experience in both civil and the private sectors and believe this experience will be helpful in making good, common sense decisions for the district. I would appreciate and I thank you for your support.
Richard Hartmann
Richard Hartmann
I am seeking re-election for the Southwestern School Board because I believe in providing the best possible educational experience for all students, grades PreK-12.
I believe in educating the whole child, especially academics, and including the arts, athletics, vocational programs, community service and citizenship in order to be prepared for future life experiences.
As a Board Member, it is our commitment to be fiscally responsible in creating our educational programs, while still providing a quality education for our students. First and foremost, we have to do what’s best for our students and community with the resources we have.
I reside in West Ellicott with my wife, Ann and our two school-age sons, Patrick and Nathan. I work in sales and my wife works in education.
I want to thank the community for their support and I am hoping for your continued support during these challenging times.
Michael Mogenhan
Michael Mogenhan
My name is Jim Butler and I have lived in the district with my wife Kimberly, daughter Cassie, and twin sons Chris and Jimmy since 2001. I am a graduate of SWHS, JCC and Clarkson University with a bachelor’s degree. A licensed professional engineer, I have worked for the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities for 26 years.
I have served on the SWCS Board for seven years and have seen many district accomplishments. We have encountered the same financial difficulties as other school districts across the state but have been able to weather this financial storm through sound fiscal planning and using reserve funds, a small tax increase, cuts to supplies, and unfortunately, cuts to personnel. A high percentage of our students make honor and merit rolls, and our graduation rates remain high.
If privileged to serve another term on the board, I will do my best to help provide the tools to continue and improve the standard of excellence that has been set in this district. I would appreciate your support and encourage everyone to vote at the upcoming budget vote and election. Every vote counts. Please let your voice be heard.
James Butler
James Butler
Spotlight 9
Lakewood. He received a scholarship for Space Camp, was eighth in the World Soap Box Derby and was named to Honor Roll. He participates in the Southwestern Boys Swim Team and his hobbies include swimming, playing Minecraft and Soap Box Derby competitions. His favorite teacher is Mr. Thomas, “because I enjoy his sense of humor and hands on curriculum.” Alex would like to attend college and possibly study engineering.Freshman Mehvish Khan is the daughter of Dr. Tariq Khan and Sarah Khan of Lakewood. She was named to Honor Roll, was Freshman Class Secretary and won the 2011
United States Optimist Dingy Association Sports Trophy. She participates in Student Council, United States Optimist Class National Sailing Team, plays violin and bassoon, played at the Area All State Festival, traveled to Wales on the Optimist U.S. Sailing Team for the 2011 British National Championship, qualified to sail in the 2012 U.S. Optimist Sailing Team attending the Lake Braassemermeer Easter Regatta in the Netherlands, and is a member of the band. Her hobbies include sailing, writing, and playing the violin, and she just became a member of the Bonnie Loch Fiddlers. She enjoys all of her teachers and has no particular favorite. Mehvish plans to attend college but has not chosen where she would like to further her education.
Emily Wuebbolt, a sophomore, is the daughter of Gordon and Mary Beth Wuebbolt of Lakewood. She was named to the Honor Roll, Presidential Physical Fitness, MVP JCC Tournament, and Achievement in Math. She participates in basketball, soccer, crew, snowboarding, Key Club, and Student Council. Her hobbies include snowboarding, going to the lake, hanging out with friends, and eating. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Cybart, “because she is funny, a great teacher, has passion, and relates everything to life and food.” Emily plans to attend college, become a successful businesswoman and have four children and a dog.
Sophomore Kristen Baggiano is the daughter of Sebastian and Krystene Baggiano of Jamestown. She was named a Scholar Athlete, Second Team All-Star, and won a Sportsmanship Award, all for soccer. She participates in Varsity soccer and her hobbies include reading, writing, watching movies, and sleeping. Her favorite teacher is Mr. Kautzman, “because he made history fun and interesting.” Kristen plans to attend college and is interested in sociology or anthropology.Noah Wright, a sophomore, is the son of Shannon and Phillip Wright of Ashville. He received Best Musician Award (for orchestra), various other orchestra awards, Spanish Tutor Award (eighth grade), Honor Roll, National Junior Honor Society, Volcano Award (for track), recognition for NYSSMA, and a Varsity letter. He participates in orchestra, CRTES, cross-country, track and field, DECA, Mock Trial, Key Club, tennis, Impact, and other extra-curricular activities. His hobbies include being with friends and family, projects, playing cello and guitar, reading, running, lifting, listening to music, attending lectures and events, volunteering, teaching and helping people, and appreciating the small things in life. Of his favorite teachers, he said “Mr. Sleggs is very dedicated, Mr. Putney has great energy, Miss Beichner is extremely positive and crazy in all the best ways, Mr. Beckerink explains things well, Mrs. Burlingame is kind, and Mrs. Lindquist cares about her students and always pays attention to people.” After high school, Noah
would like to attend a college that has a good math program and study to be an actuary. He is also considering the Navy and said that he knows his family will support him, specifically his grandfather.Junior Connor Forsberg is the son of Daniel and Ronda Forsberg of Lakewood. He was named to the National Honor Society and the Honor Roll. He participates in cross country and his hobbies include playing on his computer and reading. His favorite teacher was Mrs. Munsee, “because I learned a lot from her and had fun as well.” Connor plans to
attend college but is undecided about whether to study chemistry or physics.May Li, a junior, is from Jamestown. She has been named to Honor Roll and won various sports and sportsmanship awards. She participates in the band as first chair flute and plays tennis. Her hobbies include listening to music, playing video games and playing sports. She enjoys all of her teachers and thinks that they are all “interesting, funny, and always make the class fun.” May plans to attend college but hasn’t decided upon a course of study.
Senior Clare Caprino is the daughter of Joe and Pam Caprino of Lakewood. She has been named to National Honor Society, Player of the Week, and won dance awards from “Guys and Dolls.” She participates in Varsity soccer and dance and hobbies include hanging out with friends, listening to music, and playing soccer. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Brown, “because she is fun and understanding.” Clare plans to attend West Virginia University to study business.Nick Yanik, a senior, is the son of Randy and April Yanik of Jamestown. He has received Presidential and National Physical Fitness Awards, Youth Kiwanis Club Member of the
Month (Jamestown Boys and Girls Club), Honor Roll every semester since sixth grade, recipient of the Lucille M. Wright Air Museum Scholarship to attend Advanced Space Academy, first chair first violin in orchestra, played with the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, Scholar Athlete, 2010-11, four Regents math courses award 2010-11, and NYSSMA Solo Festival Awards. He participates in
(Continued from Page 4)High School Students of the Month
Pit Orchestra, Varsity swimming, track and field, and took guitar and piano lessons. His hobbies include playing and writing music, going to concerts, weight lifting, running, video games, and riding 4-wheelers and go-carts. His favorite teacher is Mr. Pagett, “because he’s hilarious, very intelligent, hardly makes mistakes, and is a nice man.” Nick would like to attend the Advanced Space Academy in Huntsville, Alabama. In the fall he will attend JCC and then go on to Penn State for a doctorate in physics, then plans to apply to the NASA Astronaut Candidate Program. Senior Asako Nakamoto is the exchange student daughter of Zulma Johnson of Ashville. She participates in softball and ski club. Her hobbies include hanging out with her friends, shopping, listening to music, and watching movies. She enjoys Mr.
Sleggs and Mr. Sirianni, “because their classes are really exciting and they are both funny.” Asako would like to go to Osaka University to become a lawyer.
NEW MOTTO – Morgan Johnson, eighth grade (left) and Alexis Barron, sixth grade display the motto they created for Southwestern Middle School. Their motto was chosen from more than 40 submissions to the contest and will be used throughout the middle school. Congratulations to them on a great job. (From Ms. Suzie Haag, Counselor)
Mehvish Khan
Emily Wuebbolt
May Li
Noah Wright
Connor Forsberg
Clare Caprino
Nick Yanik
Asako Nakamoto
Alex Beckerink
10 Spotlight
Southwestern Central School District Calendar 2012-2013Southwestern Central School
2012 - 2013 CalendarT-1
S-20 T-21 S-17 T-17SU MO TU WE TH FR SA
1 2 3 4 SU MO TU WE TH FR SA SU MO TU WE TH FR SA5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6
May 27 Memorial Day June 21 Rating DayAugust 30 Supt. Conference DaySeptember 4 Supt. Conference DayJanuary 28 Supt. Conference DayMarch 15 Supt. Conference Day
Holidays Not in Session Vacations Regents Exams-June 12-21, 2013
Superintendent Conference Days Board Adopted 3/27/12
AUGUST
October 8
Staff Days (includes 4 Supt. Conference Days) - Total 185
March 29 Columbus Day
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Student Days - 181
September 5Labor DayFirst Student Attendance Day
March 25-April 5
OCTOBER
September 3
APRIL
February 18
Winter Recess
Veterans' Day
Presidents' Day
December 24-January 1January 21
November 21-23
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Thanksgiving RecessNovember 12
JANUARY
SUMMARY - STUDENT DAYS
MARCH
MAY
JUNE
FEBRUARY
Spotlight 11
Sincere ThanksFifth Grade Teachers Katie
Weilacher and Tammy Piazza thank parents, teachers and friends of Southwestern who participated in making the first PTO Purse Auction Fundraiser a success. Despite the weather and a small group of about 30 people who came to the event, just over $2,200 for the children’s new playground was raised! This was an event that could not have happened without the generous donations.
GEO QUILTS - Mrs. Tami McKotch’s applied geometry class at Southwestern High School recently completed a unit on polygons with a quilt project. Students were introduced to the various polygons and their properties and how they relate to each other and they used this time to revisit area and perimeter formulas and apply them in practical situations involving polygons. One place in real life that polygons are seen is in the American quilt. The art of designing and making a quilt was discussed and several examples of various nine block patterns were given to the students. As a culminating project, students were allowed to create their own quilt square out of scrapbooking paper. Students began by first drawing a scale version of their square and making templates before finally completing the actual square on a 12” x 12” piece of paper. The project required students to use skills that they had learned in previous units; students realized how accurate scale, proportion, area, perimeter, and measurement need to be not only when making a quilt but within the context of any real world situation. (From Mrs. McKotch)
SCIENCE FAIR - The fifth graders at Southwestern Elementary School participated in the second annual Science Fair on March 9. Demonstrating their project are, from left, Jenna Dean, Katie Brinkley and Maddie Yocham. The children worked incredibly hard in groups of two to four students, and researched and created a science project from one of the units studied in fifth grade (earth science, life science, human body and physical science). For three weeks, the children collaborated and achieved success with each of their science experiments. Projects ranged from water density and water power to a hover craft and solar energy. All projects and posters were displayed in the cafeteria where students had the opportunity to explain and share experiments with family and friends as well as the third and fourth grade students. The Science Fair was well attended with an estimated 125 guests. Mrs. Katie Weilacher and Mrs. Tammy Piazza congratulated their science students for a job well done. (From Mrs. Piazza)
Pictured are Ashley Beaver, (right) third grade teacher and her mom, Anne Mathis, with the purses bought at the auction.
National Honor Society News
National Honor Society students at Southwestern High School recently led a Penny War competition to benefit St. Susan Center, resulting in a $350 donation. In previous years, the students held canned food drives. This year, after learning that St. Susan Center would benefit more from a cash donation because of their buying power through the Food Bank of WNY, students elected to try a penny war.
NHS students collected funds during lunch periods and the lead changed hands several times over the donation period with the junior class ultimately winning the competition. As the class winner, the juniors received a pizza party after school. The Holland Rood Chapter of NHS at Southwestern is grateful to Little Caesar’s and Wegman’s for their generous donations for the party.
12 Spotlight
SOUTHWESTERN CENTRALSCHOOL DISTRICT600 Hunt Road WEJamestown, NY 14701Tel: 716-484-1136www.swcs.wnyric.org
