North East-Webutuck School Board discusses Smart School program

AMENIA — The North East Webutuck School Board met on Monday, Dec. 5 at the High School library at 7 p.m. After calling the meeting to order by Board President Judy Moran, there was a call for public comment; there was none. Lauren Marquis, Director Of Curriculum/Instruction, and Technology was then called on to give a presentation on the Smart School Bond.

The Smart School Bond program originated in 2014 with the Office of Educational Design and Technology (OEDT).

It reviews Smart Schools Investment Plans submitted by districts wishing to utilize Smart School funds for educational technology-related purchases, including infrastructure to improve high-speed broadband or wireless internet connectivity for schools and communities and learning technology equipment (such as computers, tablets, interactive whiteboards, and 3D printers).

OEDT looks for alignment with the district’s Instructional Technology Plan. Districts that include educational technology purchases as part of their Smart School Investment when reviewing requests. The Plan must have a submitted and approved Instructional Technology Plan survey on file with the New York State Education Department, and the Smart Schools Investment Plan must be consistent with their Instructional Technology Plan.

Marquis also discussed the technology mission and goals of the district, saying she wants the students to look forward, beyond today, and that blended learning utilizes traditional and digital methods. She added that altruistic learning is designed to connect what the student is taught to apply to world issues.

Phase I was completed in 2019-2020 at $40,000. Currently in Phase II, which is about safety and security; this is for digital clocks, messaging, an updated P.A. system, and includes horns and strobes for outdoor use during lockdowns, important for hearing impaired, at $290,000. Phase III will be for audio visual improvements in cafeterias and libraries at $71,000. The total of non-public funds is $105,750, and the total amount is $507,150.

The presentation was followed by the Business Report given by Robert Farrier, business administrator and a report from Moran.   

School Superintendent Ray Castellani spoke about the Capital Project Vote on Dec. 6, which subsequently was approved by voters. Vice President of the Board Richard Keller-Coffey also made remarks about the need for the Capital Project.

Acceptance of resignations was agreed on two support staff resignations, Ana Oreliana as 10 month typist, and Alisha Whitney as school monitor.

An approval of instructional staff replacement was made for Brianna Vaughn, covering for Stephanie Milot, Dec. 2 to Feb 16 at Eugene Brooks Intermediate School (EBIS). An approval was received for Laura Mason as 12 month typist and Faith Maus, 10 month typist.

Jennie Selfridge was appointed High School Year Book Co-advisor with a stipend.

Also approved, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent was surplus and disposal of technology equipment.

The principal of the elementary school mentioned that the PTA Grades 2 and 3 will be having their Christmas Breakfast on Dec. 23. EBIS is having its Christmas Breakfast on Dec, 22, and enjoyed the PTA gift shop. The Gift Shop is open for a few days at each of the three schools, selling a variety of gifts at three dollars, including tax, allowing children to get gifts for family and friends.

The next regular meeting will be held on Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m., in Webutuck High School Library.

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