A Newsletter for Residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Winter 2008-2009

Commitment to Excellence

A Word from the Board of Education Dear District Parents, Guardians, Community Dear District Residents: It is hard to believe that the holidays have all come and gone, a new year is upon us, Members and Friends, and we are halfway through the 2008-09 school year. It has been a very busy time in Happy New Year to you and your families! the District, in many positive ways. I trust you enjoyed a wonderful holiday season surrounded by family and friends. When visiting the Warburg campus, you will notice a much smoother ride. The road The overall festivities of the holiday season repair project was completed in December – on time and under budget. The scope of were reflected in the GC7 schools through work included the following: the installation of storm drains and catch basins at book fairs, family celebrations and winter Woodlands Middle/High School; repaving of the administration building roadway concerts bringing teachers, parents, children entrance and visitor parking lot, as well as the Woodlands campus roadway; installation and our entire community together. of two areas of sidewalk on the Warburg campus; and installation of drains and catch As we return to routine activities and resume basins at tpohe front entrance of the adtministratlion buiilding togalleviate pohnding. Biddintg S the 08-09 school year, I want to share perti - the project in late fall allowed the District to take advantage of lower oil prices, which nent information with you about our goals. is one component that drives the cost of asphalt. In addition, a section of the parking lot area at Lee F. Jackson School was repaved, asphalt curbs were installed at the An American statistician, W. Edwards Transportation Garage, and sections of the roadway and parking lot area at RJ Bailey Deming, provides us 14 key principles for School were repaved. management for transforming effectiveness. His first point is the creation of a constancy The Strategic Plan process is almost complete. Prism Decision Systems LLC was retained of purpose. In short, this means maintaining during the summer to assist the District in the development of a Strategic Plan. A committee focus on the important long-term vision. (comprised of Board members, District staff and members of the community) was Since my assuming the position of Super- established and has met several times this fall. intendent of Schools last January, initiatives On the minds of most, if not everyone, is the uncertainty of the current state of the and strategies have been implemented with economy. While Albany did not reduce state aid during this school year, it is still a real the purpose of increasing coordination and possibility before the fiscal year ends. With these concerns in mind, we have started articulation across all of our schools, Pre K- 12. the budget process early. In fact, our Assistant Superintendent for Business began the The overall design will be reflected in the 2009-10 development process as soon as he arrived at GC7 in July. The budget Strategic Plan, which is in progress. development process will be thorough and inclusive. We are looking at ways to reduce Increased student achievement remains at the spending, while meeting the educational needs of our students. It is a difficult process with center of all of our work. Many professional difficult choices, but one that is most important for both children and residents alike. development activities have been conducted Sincerely, in this regard. Among these are increasing Lloyd Newland, President the understanding of how to use student

Continued on page 9 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District Students Benefit from New Manhattanville “The attention they receive from the second teacher can make a remarkable difference in SCopolletgleigPhart tnership the learning.” What’s the best way to improve student learning and professional develop - Mr. Thorpe notes that under these circum - ment while building a lasting community partnership? The Richard J. Bailey stances, test scores have been shown to School has the answer: It’s through the Manhattanville College Professional increase, and this can happen without “teach - Development School (PDS) Program. ing to the test.” When you have this extra sup - port as a PDS, it enhances the teaching RJB has recently been honored with the distinc - to teach,” and will go above and beyond the process, explains Ms. Schiavo. “The hands-on tion of being selected a Professional expectations to immerse themselves in the cul - learning stays with the child,” she said. And Development School. It is only the fourth ture of the school. The student-teachers, much this is only one example of the different roles school in Westchester County to participate in like the program itself, will respond to the that the PDS student-teacher can play. this program, which prepares teachers of needs of the school and the students. Ms. Schiavo, in addition to offering ongoing tomorrow as it improves instructional practices Since the PDS experience is customized to support to the student-teachers, also plays a in the classroom today. each school, student- role in the school’s professional development The program is a multi- teachers may choose plans. In November, for example, she helped faceted approach to to get involved in ways orchestrate the Staff Development Day pro - education that enhan- that can include after- gram that focused on academic vocabulary ces student learning. school tutoring or out - across the curriculum in the morning and the It brings together a reach initiatives with importance of literacy in science in the after - Manhattanville College parents and/or com - noon. professor – Judy munity. “Their reward A further benefit of this collaboration is a new Schiavo, who has an is the experience and half-tuition scholarship offered by Manhattan- extensive background the relationship they ville. All Woodlands students who graduate in education, with sev - build with the District,” with at least a 3.5 grade point average may eral student-teachers said Principal apply for the new scholarship. The scholarship from Manhattanville’s “We are very proud to be chosen for this distinc - Clarkson. (open to schools that participate in the PDS undergraduate educa - tion,” said Principal Marguerite Clarkson, (l.) seated The program itself will program) aims to alleviate costs and supports tion program, and with Manhattanville College professor Judy Schiavo infuse the school. To Manhattanville’s mission of improving educa - and Theresa Breen, fifth grade adviser, standing, Bailey’s own teachers see and understand tional opportunities. during a professional development meeting. and students. “It is a the impact of the pro - true interconnection of school and community,” The other participating PDS districts include gram, grade advisers Carol Williams (sixth Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District, said Ms. Schiavo. “The goal is the education grade), Theresa Breen (fifth grade), and James of the students.” White Plains Public Schools and New Thorpe (fourth grade) were fortunate to spend Rochelle Public Schools. “We are very proud to be chosen for this dis - time at the Edison School in Port Chester, the tinction,” said Principal Marguerite Clarkson, first to join the PDS Manhattanville partnership “The focus is always on the students and their who was instrumental in bringing the partner - seven years ago. The experience galvanized learning,” said Ms. Schiavo. ship to fruition. the group who saw the possibilities in the pro - Ms. Schiavo is the Manhattanville PDS liaison gram, as it did a team from GC7 that had vis - New Alumni Directory who began the groundwork in the fall. ited the school last year. in the Works Beginning in January, she will be in the Bailey Last winter, before the District opted into the Keep your eyes on the mail for a postcard School two and half days a week, supporting program, a group from Greenburgh, including inviting you to participate in the revised Alumni the program in several ways. school board members and an administrator, Directory. The directory is being published by parents, a teachers’ union representative and Primarily, she will be on hand observing and Harris Graduate Connection, and the postcard Principal Clarkson visited the Edison School. sharing her expertise with three Manhattanville should arrive in your mailbox in late January. In October, the team of grade advisers from student-teachers who will be hand-picked by It will give you the opportunity to share your Bailey made a follow-up visit to the site, the college for the spots. The student-teachers biographical information with your former where they saw the actual benefits of the pro - will be in the school five days a week, classmates. Alternatively, you will be able to gram in action. working side-by-side with the collaborative elect not to participate. teachers. But their role is not limited to the “Imagine a classroom of 25 students, some of The directory, which will be published this classroom. special needs, and one teacher, and then year, offers a new online component that will imagine that same room with an additional “These college students will be involved in the feature class notes, reunion message board teacher, one who is very involved, supporting life of the school,” said Ms. Schiavo. and personal alumni pages. Candidates will be selected “who really want the special needs students,” said Mr. Thorpe.

2 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

SWpoootldi lgahndt s Fitness Center: Working out has never been easier – or more affordable At 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, as the school day winds down, the Woodlands Middle/High School Fitness Center gears up. Whether you like to walk, bike or lift weights, you can find what you need right here on campus. And if you are reading this newsletter, it proba - bly means you are already a member! The Fitness Center, which is located near the gym, opens its doors every weekday “I like it here. I am trying to stay in shape, and this gym is in my school – afternoon to District stu - and it’s free.” Franco Fleurimond, a senior, uses the shoulder press machine. dents, residents, faculty and staff who come “The equipment is great; the instruction is great. gym. As part of the Dad’s Club program, he coached youth sports prepared to work out Carl walks you through the apparatus and shows for many years. (He was recognized as Youth Coach of the Year by and get fit. Not only is you exactly how it should be done. Everything the Westchester Recreation Society in 1995.) The combination made you need is right here.” Paul Hines, District resi - there no charge to use him the natural candidate for the job of Fitness Director. He continues dent, warms up on the elliptical machine. the state-of-the-art center, to work at other area gyms, but only at the Fitness Center is his but gym-goers can utilize the expertise of a fitness professional. Carl expertise available at no charge. Tucker, renowned in the area as a fitness trainer, is Fitness Director “There are very few schools that have a center like this,” he said. and always on hand to help get you started. “This is quite a perk.” Mr. Tucker sees education as a The Fitness Center offers everything from cardio equip - large part of his role. He welcomes newcomers by hav - ment to free weights to circuit-training apparatus. There ing them fill a health questionnaire and medical clear - are about 25 cardio machines in all, including tread - ance form, and then talking about their goals. With mills, steppers, ellipticals and bikes, and at least as that, he works out a personal exercise program for many circuit appa - each individual. “Fitness ratus for resistance training, once you know training. Of course, what to do, is something there are free you have for your whole weights. life.” The Fitness Center Patricia Everly, a retiree, is has become a hub “Working out here helps me at the Fitness Center for 45 of activity in the improve my running times and minutes nearly every day. four years it has strength ability.” Diana Sainvil, “I love it,” she said. “It’s a been in operation. Woodlands track star, does a great gym. Carl is wonder - While not crowd - leg extension, which strength - ful and always here to help. ed, the center does ens the quadriceps muscle. I wish I had started sooner.” a brisk business with students, It’s never too late. “The more energy you staff members and residents use, the more energy you have,” said coming and going. “Everybody Mr. Tucker. “The less energy you use, the “If I didn’t do it here, I has his or her own routine,” said less energy you have. . . that's some- wouldn’t be doing it at all! Mr. Tucker. “I help them individu - what ironic. However, that's how it Carl gives you a routine and “This gym is like a community. alize their program and then works, you use it or lose it.” then motivates you to make All ages come here, including kids I make sure they are using the sure you are doing it correct - coach, and some of their parents equipment properly. Safety is The Fitness Center is located just off the gym, ly.” Andrea Coddett, ECP who I taught. ” Roberta Maloney, inside the back entrance to WM/HS. Follow Director, uses the treadmill very important.” the signs to the gym, and get started on your retired physical education teacher (above) and elliptical for car - way to better health. The Fitness Center is and current part-time coach – girls Mr. Tucker, a certified personal diovascular training, and she trainer, has been in the fitness open from 2:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday modified basketball. She is using the through Friday. For more information, please does circuit training with the leg press while Carl checks that her business for more than 20 years, call Mr. Tucker at the Fitness Center machines for strength and form is correct. and he knows his way around a after 2:30 p.m.: 914-610-1757. endurance.

3 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Woodlands High School Parents and students from other classes entered the SpotlighAtt Woodlands High School, the From the cafeteria to find students, looking very much like first quarter has come to a close, wax statues, standing motionless in authentic period and I am delighted to inform you costume in front of elaborate posters throughout the that we are up again in the per - Desks of the museum setting. U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy, centage of students earning the dis - Barack Obama, Ronald Regan and other inspira - tinction of honors and high honors Principals tional leaders and historic figures such as Dr. Martin with an 85 percent or better G.P.A. Specifically, Luther King, Muhammad Ali and Michael Jordan (to Woodlands had 168 students earn an 85 percent name a few), came to life when their magical “On or better for the first quarter. Button” was pressed. Our students have been visible in several academic When her “button” was turned on, the first character forums this year too, and they have been active in in the room, Helen Keller, expressively told her life community service. A number of our students partici - story describing the challenges she faced and sur - pated at Purchase College in the Annual Business mounted. In perfect recitation for several minutes, Olympics sponsored by the African-American Men Maniya Cuff's dramatic presentation demonstrated of Westchester and placed second. her mastery of the information and pride in her accomplishment. Likewise, each student in the room On Monday, Oct. 20, Sarah Parker, a senior at researched a historically relevant person, read at Woodlands High School, was honored at the least “one whole book,” and wrote and memorized Westchester County Proclamation Ceremony given recent coverage of our Kid Flicks Program that is his or her presentation. The audience was by the County Board of Legislators as outstanding coordinated by Kristen Graney. (See article in this enthralled. student of the Italian language and culture. The newsletter.) The Journal News was there for a special A live audience often lends a realistic dimension to Honorable Lois Bronz presented her the award. visit by Rene Syler, author of “Good Enough Mother” the lesson that cannot be planned or predicted. We are very proud of Sarah and our Italian teacher and a former anchor on the CBS Early Show. She For example, as soon as Aaliyah Anderson-Rolon Mrs. Vannucci. spoke to the students at length about conducting completed her presentation of Jackie Robinson, interviews and gave them tips on improving Also in October Woodlands High School was (the first African-American major league baseball documentaries. She said Kid Flicks was a great proud to acknowledge its first college acceptance. player of note), a grandfather in the audience opportunity for students to tell stories in their own Congratulations to Tamesha Kimble and her accept - enthusiastically added, “And, I was there! I saw voices and gives them useful skills. Go to ance into Delaware State University. Jackie play!” He then filled in additional descriptions http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID= and details that made the wax museum account Lastly, on Nov. 10, Woodlands participated for the 2008811230342. first time in the News 12 “Challenge” (see article in even more authentic! this newsletter). Woodlands sent a team that consist - Finally, Southern Westchester BOCES and the Lower ed of four students and one alternate. We also invit - Hudson Regional Information Center, on behalf of a ed 30-40 students to be part of the audience (stu - consortium of eight public school districts, applied for Marguerite Clarkson dents, faculty, family, PTSA, and administrators) at a Title II grant with a focus on creating a culture of l the televised competition. continuous improvement through inquiry based data teams. Woodlands Middle School is one of the eight Highview School schools that participated in this program. The primary Before winter break, Highview Dr. Robert L. Chakar, Jr. goal of this program is to improve student achieve - School was participating in a vari - l ment through the use of data analysis in elementary ety of memorable activities. We and secondary schools. With increased accountabili - joined our friends at LFJ and RJB as Woodlands Middle School ty, GC7 has expanded the program to the elementary we kicked off DecemBEAR with the We are pleased to inform you that and high school levels. Enhancing Education Through Be Excited About Reading (BEAR) Woodlands Middle School has Technology (EETT) teams were developed at HV, RJB program. The second-grade teachers read “Little been authorized as an and WHS. Bear’s Special Friend,” by Claire Freedman, to their International Baccalaureate School students while the third-grade teachers read “Bear Feels Scared,” by Karma Wilson, to their students. to teach levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Michael Chambless IB Middle Years Programme. Both I The books were distributed by District Humanities and Patricia Simone, Assistant Principal/Middle l Coordinator Margie O’Brien. Years Programme (MYP) Coordinator, would like to Richard J. Bailey School Our reading celebrations continued as Highview recognize our dedicated staff members for their hard School participated in the annual Read for 2009 R.J. Bailey School, a Professional work and diligence in making this happen. celebration. This event is held on the national level Development School of Manhattan- on the first Friday in December each year. This event Tying in with IB, Dr. Nsereko, a minister from ville College, has a powerful and was recorded for the local cable channel 77, by Uganda, was a keynote speaker at our December impressive teaching staff. As we Kristen Graney, the District’s educational television International Baccalaureate Assembly. He shared his highlight innovative strategies and supervisor. The second graders read in the gym, experiences about Africa and the "seed project" that projects that inspire students and while the third graders read in the multi-purpose aligns with our community service initiatives in the IB promote learning in our schools, Stephanie Adler and area. It was wonderful to see so many children program. For more information on Dr. Nsereko, who her fourth-grade students demonstrated excellence is a minister of education, go to www.nserester.org. and impressive hard work in their Pre-Thanksgiving Continued on page 5 We also want to thank the Journal News for its Wax Museum Exhibit.

4 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Continued from page 4 Parent University Workshop that targeted homework Barnes and Noble White Plains (City Center). This Spotlight strategies for both grade levels. Also, our first bilingual PTA annual event was co-sponsored by the Literacy dressed in pajamas and slippers, holding their information night was well-attended. It provided par - Committee. Woodlands High School students from favorite stuffed animal, reading their favorite book. I ents with information regarding curriculum, parent the Key Club, ECP staff members and Literacy read my favorite holiday book, “How Murray Saved involvement, parent/child support with homework and Committee members donated their time and talents Christmas,” by Mike Reiss. Read it once – you’ll other needs. to make the evening a huge success. In addition to want to read it every December! Finally, in December, our teachers/principal monthly reading to the children, they helped with interactive grade-level curriculum work session took place. Each activities such as face-painting and mask-making, Second-grade teacher Valerie Galdau directed her which took place throughout the evening. These students in a play titled “The Ocean’s Secret,” month has a different agenda, and the focus for November and December was on “looking at data.” activities created a festive, enjoyable atmosphere inspired by the Magic Tree House Books. Mrs. for both the parents and children. Galdau’s annual play is a highlight each year. The We evaluated how the assessments support classroom play was performed on Dec. 11, and will also air instruction and student learning, and then we brain - Besides the plethora of books that Barnes and on local cable channel 77, since it was recorded stormed and shared ideas on how best to monitor and Noble offered for sale, the Literacy Committee had by Ms. Graney. document the ongoing student progress a wish list table. This table was set aside for ECP in each class. families to join with their children in selecting books December is also the month where our third-grade familiar to the children. These books were chosen classes visited the Jacob Burns Film Center for the We all are looking forward to a happy and produc - tive new year! by the Literacy Committee based on the committee’s first time. They will return in the spring for a follow- mission to provide quality literature to the students up visit. The classes participate in the visual literacy of ECP, continue the partnership of learning program that has been an integral part of the third- Dawn Male between school and home, and demonstrate how grade curriculum for years. l literacy can be promoted and supported when Academically, the classes just completed a math reading to a child. Early Childhood Program and reading end-of-marking period assessment Parents remarked throughout the evening how sur - (EMA), as report cards were distributed shortly ECP is continuing to provide quality prised and delighted they were that their children before the winter break. In January, third graders early literacy and emergent reading were so knowledgeable about not only the content will be taking the state-administered Grade 3 opportunities for our students and of the books on the wish list, but also the elements ELA Exam. developing and sustaining meaning - of stories in general. Feedback from parents, ECP From our Highview family to yours: We hope you ful collaborations with parents and staff, Barnes and Noble staff, and most especially had a happy holiday season. We’ll see you in community organizations. At ECP, the students, made it apparent that the evening 2009! we know, it truly does “take a village to raise a child.” was a tremendous success in their book! The Book Fair/Pajama Night is among the many programs here that brings the community together as it Andrea Coddett Gary Mastrangelo supports our literacy efforts. On the evening of Friday, l Dec.5, ECP held its Book Fair/Pajama Night at Lee F. Jackson School The Lee F. Jackson School is on its Students read way to IB authorization! Everyone and play at is excited that the IB team was the PTA Book here on Oct. 21 and 22 for its Fair/Pajama first authorization visit, which went Night at very well. The International Barnes and Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) has Noble (see been embedded into the culture and curriculum of item above). our school through the use of IBPYP philosophy and vocabulary. At the heart of the program’s philosophy is a commitment to structured, purposeful inquiry as the leading vehicle for learning. The initial feedback from the team was positive, and we look forward to the full written report that we hope to receive in the spring. We are also proud of the PTA-sponsored food drive that was held in November in conjunction with Greenburgh/Elmsford CAP. Lee F. Jackson students, parents and staff donated more than 2,000 food items! This supports food baskets being distributed to area families in need. Parents were involved in other ways, too: Our parent/teacher conferences were attended by more than 90% of our families, and more than 25 families participated in the

5 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District Woodlands Students ‘Challenge’ After 31 weeks of competition, one school in each region is crowned champion, winning SThpoemtslei lgvhest on News 12 $2,500 dollars for their school. The final win - Five GC7 students are competing in “The Challenge,” an academic TV quiz ning teams from each region go on to the show for high schools featuring the best and brightest local students. With Challenge Championship where they square thousands of dollars at stake, students taped the show in New York City on off with one another. The school crowned the Nov. 10, and it will air on Cablevision News 12 at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Challenge Champion will receive $10,000 in on Saturday, Feb. 7, and Sunday, Feb. 8. prize money. Schools from Bronx-Brooklyn, Connecticut, Long Island, New Jersey and Tune in then when Woodlands students 32 schools, and teams advance through a Westchester-Hudson Valley participate. Each Katarina Hoeger, Kamaal Jones, Denis series of elimination rounds. Since “The student participating in the final Challenge Nyugen, Tara Pavone and James Booth (alter - Challenge” was instituted 12 years ago, hun - Championship game will receive $500. nate) put their knowledge to the test as they dreds of schools and thousands of exceptional The show is on every weekend at the above compete against students from Haldane High students have been involved. times through June. School. “The Challenge” tests high school stu - From l. to r., dents' knowledge of history, arts and litera - Katarina Hoeger, ture, science and math. Kamaal Jones, Dean Daymon S. Yizar, adviser to the group, Tara Pavone, is pleased with his students, who showed Denis Nyugen character under stress. “Strong character and and James Booth good moral judgment are the essence of dig - (alternate) took on the nity,” he said. “Challenge.” The show is made up of three rounds: Multiple Choice, the Lightning Round and Free Response. There are also randomly placed bonus questions for teams to earn extra points. More than 180 teams from the Tri-State region are competing. The competition begins with

WOODLANDS HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND MEMBERSHIP INVITATION The Woodlands High School Scholarship Fund extends an invitation to you for membership. By doing so, you'll become part of an all volunteer Board of Trustees that administers the Fund. We're a community organization that has existed for 47 years. During this time, more than $1,180,000 has been awarded to qualified Woodlands High School graduating seniors. Qualifications are determined by certified financial need and acceptance at an institution of higher learning. If you're interested in becoming a member or in participating with our fundraising efforts (Citrus Sales, Flea Markets, etc.), please indicate by completing and returning the attached form to us at the indicated address: You can also contact us by telephone or email for answers to any questions you may have at: 914-644-8978 , or email: wanairuj30@aol Woodlands High School Scholarship Fund, Inc., P.O. Box 13, Hartsdale, N.Y. 10530 ____ Yes, I would like to become a member of the WHSSFund ____ Yes, I would like more information about the WHSSFund ____ I'm not available to become a member of the WHSSFund Please contact me regarding Fund activities. Name Address

Telephones: E-Mail Address:

6 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District ALUMNI STORY: Focus on Patricia Kellner Dr. Kellner feels the WISE program was a great opportunity for hands-on learning and SWpohen tPlaitrgiciha t Kellner graduated from Woodlands High School in 1973, she she makes an effort to “give back” to others knew she was well-prepared for college, and with so many doors open to what she received through WISE. She mentors her, she chose to go to Yale. The Ivy League didn’t intimidate her. She was students at all levels, from pre-school through ready for it. high school through medical school. “I enjoy teaching and sharing my knowledge and “I thought Woodlands was a great school,” on to Yale Medical School. She did her intern - experience with others. I take that part of the said Ms. Kellner, a physician who practices ship and residency in Cleveland and stayed Hippocratic Oath very seriously.” (The oath outside Cleveland. “I appreciated the in the area to practice medicine. University requires that doctors teach others.) diversity and the opportunities to participate Heights, the community where her practice is Now, even after 25 years of practicing in interesting activities.” WISE was one of located, is an inner ring suburb of Cleveland. medicine, the doctor reflects on Woodlands: those programs. It’s a diverse community. “Woodlands definite - “I learned at Woodlands how much you can Her WISE project placed her in the pediatric ly contributed to my feelings about this: I don’t get out of a high school education.” development center of (now) Westchester think I would feel happy in a community that Medical Center where children with develop - was NOT ethnically, racially and socio-eco - mental problems were evaluated. She was nomically diverse.” Patricia Kellner, then and now allowed to observe the meetings between the doctors, psychologists and other specialists, and she also served as a helper in the nursery school, a classroom setting where children who needed extra attention were placed. Although she didn’t know then she would become a doctor, the experience was forma - tive. “It was a really good experience,” she said. “It contributed a sense of what might happen in the medical field.” She also credits a course in child psychology that she took at Woodlands for giving her some career direc - tion. Ultimately, she went on to study psycholo - gy in college. “I use my knowledge of human behavior every day in my work,” she said. After graduation from Yale, Dr. Kellner went

Transportation Reminder Seeking Success Stories Video on Demand Parents in the District requiring Are you a Videos on demand and live broadcasts transportation for their children to graduate? are streamed over the Internet. This means private or parochial schools must return Do you Board of Education meetings as well the transportation request form to the still live in as a number of instructional workshops District by April 1. For more informa - the area? and programs can be watched Have tion, or to obtain a copy of the form, anytime on the District website. Go to you made please call the Transportation www.greenburgh.k12.ny.us strides in your career? Office at 42 8- 7000. If you feel you have a success story to and click on GC7 Cable 77 TV. If you tell, please let us know. We would be prefer to see the programs on television, happy to include it as part of a regular you can check the cable TV schedule that feature in this newsletter. is also available on line. To share your story, simply contact Ivy Kraus, District Clerk, For the latest news ,visit our at 914-761 -6000, ext. 3114 or web site: [email protected]. www.greenburgh.k12.ny. us

7 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District Booster Club Wants You to Share the Falcon Spirit! Liberty, Our Lady of Lourdes and Sleepy Hollow. SAtpoWootdlli agndhs,t school spirit is on the rise as Falcon pride sours again. “Our student-athletes did a great job The Falcons Nest Booster Club, new this year, is an organization of parents representing our school and community,” said who are interested in generating support for our student-athletes at games, Mr. Smith. “Thanks to the Falcons Nest tournaments and other athletic events. Booster Club and our Key Club for their invaluable help from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The group came together with the help of Without them, the tournament would not Athletic Director Matt Smith, who felt it was have been a success.” time to bring back the Falcon spirit. “Building school spirit and bringing back the best sports The club also supported the Breast Cancer programs in Westchester are two of my priori - Awareness Basketball Challenge that featured ties,” he said. Section 1 teams vs. CHSAA teams for a day of quality, competitive high school girl's Joseph Longo, president of the club, is one of basketball. Woodlands played Cardinal the biggest boosters. “We are hoping to revi - Spellman. The club linked forces with the talize school spirit, which is so important for American Cancer Society, so the event fell all our students, not just the athletes,” he said. under the umbrella of Coaches vs. Cancer, an “We want everyone to feel a strong sense of organization that raises funds to fight cancer. positive identity with Woodlands.” Mr. Longo’s daughter, Raffilina, is a cheerleader and Upcoming events include: Alumni Basketball softball player, but he stresses that all parents Game, Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser in March, are welcome – whether or not their children Spring Sports Tournaments (Baseball & are athletes. Softball) in April/May, and bringing back the Varsity Awards Athletics Formal Dinner in June. The club has initiated several activities includ - ing the sale of spiritwear such as T-shirts and The Falcons Nest Booster Club is dedicated sweatshirts. Club members also volunteered to to bringing the best sports programs back help at the Wrestling Tournament on Dec. 13 to Woodlands High School by getting every - that was hosted by WHS and co-sponsored body involved. “This club is working diligently by Merlin’s Miracles along with the Falcons Coach Jason Parker. Participating schools to restore Falcon Pride and the renowned Nest Booster Club with the help of Wrestling included Lakeland, Byram Hills, Dobbs Ferry, Woodlands spirit,” said Athletic Director Matt Smith. “We need the help of both parents and faculty together to make this happen,” said Mr. Longo. “This school is all of ours, and we need to start taking pride and ownership of it. Let’s put Woodlands back on the sports map as a power house!” For more information on the Booster Club, or to get involved, contact Matt Smith at [email protected] or Mr. Longo at [email protected].

Congratulations to our team and coaches!

8 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Congrats to Porsha! Continued from page 1 Spotlight Dear District Parents ... GC7 basketball star Porsha Postell will be heading to the University of Kentucky on data, such as test a full Division 1 athletic scholarship. As one results, to improve of the nation’s top players, Porsha, who classroom instruction. plays all positions on the team, was voted Most Valuable Player in back-to-back Another that also has to seasons with an average of nearly 29 points do with technology, is per game this year. As a junior, she led how to monitor student the Falcons to their first trip to the County progress so that all teachers involved in Center. She also has been named All-Section the instruction of any particular student can and All-State, and was MVP of the league last year. monitor student academic strengths and The scholarship, worth over $20,000 per year, covers needs. With this information, GC7 has the her tuition, books and room and board. Porsha is opportunity for ongoing program modifica - believed to be the first girls basketball tion so that daily instruction is meaningful player from Woodlands to earn a D-I to every student in the class. scholarship out of high school in more than 25 years. Our staff meets regularly to review student Porsha had her pick of colleges, and progress, align instruction to student needs, chose Kentucky over Boston College, and align curriculum to NYS benchmark tests Seton Hall, St. John’s, South Carolina, and standards. Our administrators provide UMass and West Virginia. There, she support, coaching and mentoring to our will play for the Wildcats, a member teachers to continuously maximize the of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), commonly regarded as the capacity of teachers. The observations and strongest conference in the country. conversations are ongoing and are a part The conference is one of the most of the professional development activities successful both on the field and of the school year. financially, averaging more than six national championships over the Porsha Postell with her High School Principal, Dr. Robert All of the steps that have been taken so far past decade. Chakar, and her Head Coach Siobhan McDermott. are fostered through Deming’s work, which speaks to the alignment of curriculum and tests and the importance of “powerful” Welcome Robert Murphy - instructional strategies. Deming proposes that New Basketball Coach for Boys Varsity everyone within the system needs to work Robert L. Murphy is the new together to uplift all involved. Through Boys Varsity Basketball Coach, your support and involvement as parents, a part-time position. community members and friends, and the He comes to the district from the collaboration and cooperation of our Poughkeepsie City School District where administrators, teachers and staff, he was physical education teacher, Greenburgh 7 is becoming more efficient boys basketball coach, and track and and effective in the partnering of our field coach from 1987 to 2000. There, he also served as administrator, human resources, student services and fiscal including the position of Principal of support for the benefit of every student. Poughkeepsie High School from 2001-2006, and assistant principal prior to that. His prior Thank you for your interest and continuous experience includes several years as instructor of physical education at Dutchess Community College where he was also the head basketball coach of the men’s team. support. Mr. Murphy holds an MS in education from SUNY New Paltz, and a BS from the University of Sincerely, Minnesota where he was captain of the basketball team, nationally ranked “Big 10 Conference Champions” in 1972. Ronald L. Smalls, Superintendent of Schools

9 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Woodlands High School placed sec - Pictured Left, Nicholas and charter Rotary mem - Spoontdlingthhe At frican American Men of ber Ron Tvert, past president, before the contest. Westchester 8th Annual Business Skills Did You Know? Olympics held at PEPSICO in Purchase The Edith Winthrop Teacher Center on Oct. 24. The topic of discussion awarded 11 Professional Development was the election process. Woodlands Quest (PDQ) Grants to participating HS was one of eight schools participat - teachers from 11 of its consortium ing from Westchester County. (Ossining schools. The PDQ Grants promote inno - High School took first place.) The vative, creative classroom projects that students who represented Woodlands are based on current research and HS were: school need, and have the potential for making a positive impact on students. Jonathan Campozano, Daquan Clark, The following District teachers received Nicholas Creegan, Michelle Essex, two of these grants: Coty Everly, Pavle Fric, Michelle Mitchell, Lexia Robinson and Clarese Diane Pacheco (ECP) for Big Steps into Scott-Cooper. Sharon McGee, business Literacy and Reading Readiness and education teacher, is adviser to the WHS senior Nicholas Creegan won Karen Schivley and colleagues (LFJ) for group. Congratulations to all! Rotary’s Public Speaking Contest held Alphabet and Arithmetic Adventures for Two of our senior student-athletes were during a luncheon meeting on Dec. 3 at an Active Afternoon. selected to participate in the prestigious Alaroma Restaurant in Elmsford. Rotary Congratulations to our students who North verses South Section 1 Senior mandates that contestants apply the Rotary performed so well at their NYSSMA All-Star football game. The Section 1 4-Way Test, a moral and ethical model for auditions. This year, for the first time in Coaches Association’s Executive Board behavior, decision-making and life prac - 15 years, a Woodlands student, senior selected Navarro Pinnock and Kris tice, to the speech. “The process helps Nathaniel Graves, was selected to Jenkins from over 100 nominations per people to make important decisions,” said perform at the NYSSMA All-State Music squad. The game has attracted over 50 Nicholas. “Basically, when making a deci - Conference in Rochester as part of the college coaches to see and evaluate sion, you have to ask, Is it true? Is it fair? All State Choir. Kudos also go to junior the top football players from Section 1. Is it beneficial to those it concerns? and, Justin Rivera who scored a perfect score The All-Star game was played on Will it build good will and better friend - at his saxophone audition and 8th Sunday, Nov. 23, at White Plains ships?” Nicholas now moves on to the dis - grade flutist Kata Kozma, who was High School, and while the South, trict-level competition where he competes selected to participate in the NYSSMA which the Woodlands players were against representatives from all the Rotary Intermediate All County Band. on, didn’t win, it was a great game. clubs in the district. Congratulations and good luck! RJ Bailey held the first qualifying round of the National Geographic Bee on Thursday, Dec. 11. On Jan. 16, we will determine the school-wide winner at an assembly. This student will take the written exam to qualify for the state championship. Ultimately the state winners will partici - pate in the national round, televised with Alex Trebec.

National Geographic Bee Class Winners

10 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District For Kid Flicks, It’s Lights, Camera, Action! SAtpoWootdlli agndhst Middle School, students get behind the scenes and into the action through Kid Flicks, an after-school visual literacy program, where they learn the craft of film-making with the help of educational television supervi - sor Kristen Graney, who coordinates the activity. High school students can be involved by serving as interns.

Nine students in grades 7 and 8 are participating in the program where they meet weekly and learn everything from the technical skills needed to operate a videocamera to using the software that allows them to edit the videotape. This year, students are working in groups to produce, film and edit a documentary film of their choosing. The hands-on training that students get is invaluable, and in making a film, they reinforce academic skills such as writing, while they hone their creative eye and also build leadership skills through directing. “This is a very global approach to film-making,” said Ms. Graney. “It shows them the practical application while it helps with classroom skills.” Once a week, the group also heads to the Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville where they learn film theory as part of Cinemania, a pro - gram offered to middle school students throughout Westchester County. Additionally, speakers such as TV’s Rene Syler are invited to bring their expertise to the students. During a recent presentation in November, Syler, a former TV news anchor and now author, conducted a workshop on developing interview skills to prepare the students for the filming of their documentary projects. “Journalism is changing, but Former TV news anchor Rene Syler poses with the Kid Flicks group. the skills you learn will always help you. You must learn to think outside the box.” and NASA’s first female shuttle commander, Eileen Collins, as well as celebrities including Melissa Etheridge and Prince. First, she stressed it is important to be prepared for the interview. “You need to know all you can about the subject beforehand, and then ask Syler is currently working on upcoming projects for television. You can the right questions,” she coached. “And always listen carefully to the learn more about Rene on her website, www.goodenoughmother.com. answer, rather than focusing on your next question.” The videos produced by students appear on GC7 Cable 77 and also Syler, who began her career in journalism as a reporter in Reno, the District website: click GC7 Cable 77, then on to Student Films. Nevada, co-hosted the Early Show on CBS News for a number of Archived videos can be viewed as well. years and has authored a book, “Good Enough Mother.” Her own interviews included First Lady Laura Bush, former President Jimmy Carter, former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Senator John McCain

Working on the camera, from l. to r., Jerome Williams, Elijah Simmons, Emari Rene Syler was pleased to visit the group and educational television supervisor Williams and Jackson Davis. Kristen Graney who coordinates the Kid Flicks program.

11 Commitment to Excellence A newsletter for residents of the Greenburgh Central 7 School District

Home Games Support our student athletes by attending a Upcoming Events Visit our website for the most current and accurate Shopome gatmlei .gVihsit ht ttp://www.section1athletics.org/ for the most schedule of events. current schedule. Date Event Time Location Jan. 7 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Alexander Hamilton Jan. 8 Grades 3-5 NYS ELA Exams Jan. 8 ECP Pre-K Pre-Registration Information Night 6 p.m. WHS Cafeteria Jan. 7 4:30 p.m. Wrestling Varsity Dobbs Ferry Jan. 8 Board of Education Work Session 6:30 p.m. Board Room Jan. 8 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Varsity Byram Hills Jan. 13 Grades 3-4 NYS ELA Exams Jan. 8 6:15 p.m. Boys Basketball JV Byram Hills Jan. 13-16 WMS Mid-Term Exams Jan. 12 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Modified Solomon Schechter Jan. 13 Highview Open House for Incoming Parents 9:30 a.m. HV Jan. 13 Jackson Open House for Incoming K 10 a.m. LFJ Jan. 12 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Varsity Rye Jan. 13 Board of Education Meeting 7 p.m. WHS Jan. 12 6:15 p.m. Girls Basketball JV Rye Jan. 14 Grades 3-5 NYS ELA Exams Jan. 14 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Varsity Eastchester Jan. 15 Grades 4-5 NYS ELA Exams Jan. 14 6:15 p.m. Girls Basketball JV Eastchester Jan. 19 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY – All Schools Closed Jan. 20-23 Grades 6-8 NYS ELA Exams Jan. 15 4:30 p.m. Wrestling Varsity Ardsley Jan. 22 Board of Education Special Work Session 6:30 p.m. Board Room Jan. 16 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball JV Ardsley Jan. 23 K Report Cards Go Home Jan. 16 6:15 p.m. Boys Basketball Varsity Ardsley Jan. 27-30 Regents Exams Jan. 20 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Children’s Village Feb. 3 Woodlands Report Cards Mailed Home Jan. 20 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Varsity Pelham Feb. 3 Board of Education Meeting 7 p.m. WHS Cafeteria Feb. 6 Grades 4-6 Progress Reports Sent Home Jan. 20 6:15 p.m. Girls Basketball JV Pelham Feb. 10 K Pre-Registration Night 6:30 p.m. Jan. 21 4:30 p.m. Wrestling Varsity Nanuet Feb. 12 Board of Education Special Work Session 6:30 p.m. Board Room Jan. 22 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Modified Rye Neck Feb. 16-20 WINTER RECESS – All Schools Closed Jan. 26 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Tuckahoe Feb. 26 Board of Education Work Session 6:30 p.m. Board Room Mar. 3 Grades 3-4 NYS Math Exams Jan. 28 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Port Chester Mar. 3 Board of Education Meeting 7 p.m. WHS Cafeteria Jan. 30 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Rye Neck Mar. 4 Grads 3-5 NYS Math Exams Feb. 2 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Modified Alexander Hamilton Mar. 5 Grades 4-5 NYS Math Exams Feb. 3 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Varsity Edgemont Mar. 9-13 Grades 6-8 NYS Math Exams Feb. 3 6:15 p.m. Boys Basketball JV Edgemont Mar. 10-12 K Registration Mar. 12 Board of Education Special Work Session 6:30 p.m. Board Room Feb. 4 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Modified Solomon Schechter Mar. 13 ECP Closed – Staff Development Day Feb. 5 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Varsity Byram Hills Mar. 18 Grade 6 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. WMS Feb. 5 6:15 p.m. Girls Basketball JV Byram Hills Mar. 20 Grades 1-6 Report Cards Mailed Home Feb. 9 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball Varsity Rye Mar. 20 Woodlands Progress Reports Mailed Home Mar. 26 Bailey Parent/Teacher Evening Conferences Feb. 9 6:15 p.m. Boys Basketball JV Rye Mar. 27 Early Dismissal – Parent/Teacher Conferences 10:45 a.m. RJB only Feb. 12 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Modified Hastings Mar. 28 2009 ACT-SO Awards TBA WHS Auditorium Feb. 25 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Modified Tuckahoe Mar. 30 Early Dismissal – Parent/Teacher Conferences 10:45 a.m. RJB only

Tax Information Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage The New York State income tax PAID form requires taxpayers to list the White Plains, NY Greenburgh Central 7 School District Permit No. 3111 name and code of the public school 475 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale, N.Y. 10530 district in which he/she resides. S(914po) 761 - 6t00l0 i ght The Greenburgh code is 237 . Board of Education Lloyd Newland, President Susan Penchansky, Vice President Stephanie W. Bellino Si a usted le gustaría una Charles Bronz Cora L. Carey JD Cruz copia de este boletín en Español, Monique Haygood Massey David Warner por favor llame (914) 76 1- 6000 Terry Williams

ext. 3114. Superintendent of Schools Ronald L. Smalls