BULLETIN BULLETINThe Connecticut Association of Schools The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference Affiliated with the National Association of Secondary School Principals g Member National Federation of State High School Asociations g Member National Middle School Association VOL. 76 / NO. 7 APRIL-MAY 2002

CAS 2002 PRINCIPALS CIAC REVISES 2002 GOVERNOR'S SCHOLARS OUT-OF-SEASON COACHING by Mike Buckley, Ph.D. OF THE YEAR REGULATION Assistant Executive Director

High School Principal The CIAC has spent nearly eighteen Under the direction of Education Com- of the Year months re-examining the Out-of-Season missioner Dr. Theodore Sergi, the Connecticut Coaching Regulation, primarily at the urging Association of Schools has worked to build of the Connecticut High School Coaches Asso- and strengthen the Governor's Scholars Pro- ciation (CHSCA). CHSCA has been seeking to gram (GSP). Now in its sixth year, the GSP revise the Out-of-Season Rule so as to give honors twenty high school students from coaches greater latitude to coach or instruct throughout the state for their extraordinary their athletes during the summer months. At academic achievements. This annual recogni- its March 21st meeting, after a lengthy discus- tion program is made possible through gener- sion, the CIAC adopted a revised regulation ous corporate funding from Big Y World Class which, while less restrictive, still preserves the Markets. JOHN A. GOETZ intent of the original regulation. All principals of CAS member high See page 5 The following changes, which apply to schools were given the opportunity to nomi- team sports only, were adopted by the board. nate one junior who ranked in the top two per- Middle School 1. Member schools may not organize or cent of his/her class. An essay on an assigned Principal of the Year permit coaches to organize, supervise, or topic had to be completed by all nominees. operate athletic practices or interscholastic Members of the Governor's Scholars Commit- athletic contests for their athletes. tee, professional educators from throughout Connecticut, judged the completed applica- 2. Member schools may permit their coaches of tions and assigned a composite score to each individual sports to coach any of their athletes based on grade point average, PSAT or SAT who have qualified for a national level compe- scores, rank in class, and the student essay. tition that is sanctioned by the CIAC and Laura Ferrante Fernandes, chair of the Gover- National Federation. This would be limited to nor's Scholars Committee, is pleased to one competition. Schools may provide equip- announce the twenty finalists in this year's PAUL G. CAVALIERE, JR. ment and facilities. Schools may also provide financial assistance and insurance coverage competition and extends congratulations to: See page 9 for the competition. continued on page 16 g Andrew Beck, Joel Barlow H.S., Redding g Hannah Burzynski, Pomperaug, Southbury CINGULAR WIRELESS OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF CAS-CIAC g Tiffany Chen, Maloney H.S., Meriden g Christina Dalonzo, Danbury High School Please join us in welcoming Cingular Wireless as g David Derusha, Griswold High School the official wireless sponsor of CAS-CIAC. Cingular g Shawn Draczynski, Torrington High School kicked off its sponsorship activities last month by hav- g Alex Dulude, Enfield High School ing Connecticut Vice President/General Manager Bob Puglielli provide opening remarks at g Gregory Fay, Enrico Fermi H.S., Enfield the Student Leadership Conference. Puglielli spoke to an eager crowd of student leaders g Samantha Henderson, Holy Cross, Waterbury and conveyed his own brand of leadership through a highly interactive session. "After g Victoria Holowink, Lauralton Hall, Milford meeting these students, I am more enthused than ever about our sponsorship and look for- g Nicholas Ivanoff, Emmett O'Brien, Ansonia ward to a long and lasting relationship with CAS-CIAC," he said. g Kevin Foster Fitch Senior H.S., Groton As part of the year round sponsorship, Cingular recently supported the boys' and girls' g Catherine Kupiec Daniel Hand, Madison basketball state championships and will sponsor the 2002 football state championships. As g Robert Lively, Jonathon Law, Milford a major sponsor, Cingular will also be involved in other various events throughout the year. g Danielle Lussier, Windham H.S., Willimantic Cingular Wireless Sales and Marketing Manager Chris Renstrom orchestrated the g sponsorship with CIAC because it offers a mutually beneficial relationship for both the Eleanor Millman, E.O. Smith, Storrs g schools and the company. "At Cingular, we are committed to being a community partner. Janell Mullen, Housatonic Valley, Falls Village g Sponsoring CAS-CIAC is a perfect sponsorship opportunity for Cingular because the dol- Giancarlo Nucci, Greenwich High School lars help support key programming for Connecticut students and we get exposure to one of g Brian Reed, Shelton High School our key audiences, teenagers." g Richard Truex, Wethersfield High School continued on page 16 continued on page 6 2 CAS Bulletin LEGAL MAILBAG By Attorney Thomas B. Mooney, Neag School of Education, University of CT O According to a recent study by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the number of Con- Editor’s Note: Legal Mailbag is a regular feature in the necticut children living in poverty jumped monthly BULLETIN. We invite readers to submit short, law-related questions of practical concern to school from 78,000 to 95,000 during the 90s. "Chil- administrators. Each month we will select questions dren at Risk: State Trends 1990-2000" pre- and publish answers. While these answers cannot sents a state-by-state compilation of data on be considered formal legal advice, they may be of help the welfare of children. In 2000, 27%, or to you and your colleagues. We may edit your questions, 227,000 Connecticut children, were living in and we will not identify the authors. Please submit your single-parent homes, a 23% increase over 10 questions to: [email protected]. years; twenty-five percent, or 205,000, were in homes where no parent has full-time, Dear Mailbag: After a long expulsion Dear Ready: If a student is enrolled year-round employment; fourteen percent, or Q. hearing before the board of education, A. in your school, he may be required to 114,000, were living with a head of house- complete with lawyers and everything, I thought attend all scheduled activities, including the hold who was a high school dropout. Fur- that I was rid of a major-league troublemaker, at exquisite lunches that your cheerful cafeteria thermore, 6%, or 54,000 children, lived in least for the rest of the year. Last night at the staff serve up. Here, the concern is especially school play, however, he strolled into the auditori- serious because the student is missing instruc - homes without a vehicle; and 9%, or 13,000 um easy as pie, waving to all his little friends. I ran tional time as well. You should inform the parent teenagers, were not attending school or right over to remind him that he was expelled and that, absent exigent circumstances that would working. started to escort him out of the building. He pulled require an early departure (e.g. doctor's appoint- ***** free, however, and threatened litigation if I touched ment), she will not be allowed to remove the O The state of Connecticut has been him again. He said that, expulsion notwithstand- child from school during the school day. If she approved for a $2.6 million federal grant to ing, he had not lost his rights as an American. pushes the point, you can tell her that her son help implement a 3-year statewide strategy Since the play was open to the public, he argued, faces disciplinary action if he leaves without your to prepare for a weapons-of-mass-destruction he had the same right as any other member of the permission, even at her insistence. That should incident. Although the grant, awarded by the public to be there. He then sat there quietly and be an interesting conversation. Department of Justice (DOJ), is only a small watched the play without incident. Did I have to fraction of the expected total cost of pre- back off? -Second Guessing Myself Dear Mailbag: I never knew I had paredness in Connecticut, it is the full Q. so many friends. Lately, it seems like amount available to Connecticut under exist- Dear Second: You did not have to per- I am getting a letter every other day from ing congressional appropriations. The com- mit the student to attend the play. When some military guy or another. They all want prehensive plan is designed to be the first A. he was expelled, presumably the board of a list of the students in my school. So far, I stage of ensuring that local, state and federal Education ruled that he was expelled from all have been untouched by the recent resurgence "school property and school activities." If so, you response teams are available to protect every of patriotism, and as a child of the 60's, I am location in Connecticut for the most-proba- had the right to direct him to leave the auditorium. more than a little suspicious of the military. I ble worst-case scenario. The inter-agency Even when the school district has an activity that understand the need to comply with legal is generally open to the public, it does not lose its requirements, but I do not know if I should working group of the state Office of Emer- right to control the activity, and this student, who believe their claims that I must provide this infor- gency Management (OEM) identified nine had been expressly prohibited from entering mation by May 31. Do I have to give these municipalities and locations as "first priori- school property, would be subject to removal. If recruiters this information? ties" to receive equipment and training as necessary, call the police to have such students - An Aging Hippie part of the grant program. The decision was removed. Don't try, however, to do it yourself. based on the vulnerability of each location, You're not as young as you think. Dear Aging: Times have changed, and and the role each might play in providing A. so have the laws. The federal No Child regional coverage. The nine "first priority" Dear Mailbag: We understand that municipalities are: Bridgeport, Hartford, Q. things come up that require parents to Left Behind Act of 2001, recently signed with New Haven, Stamford, Waterbury, Groton take their kids out of school early, and we try to be much fanfare by President Bush, requires that cooperative. One mother, however, is really push- military recruiters be provided with high school and New London, Bradley International Air- ing the envelope. She has shown up at noon every student names and addresses unless parents port, and the Mashantucket Pequot and day this month to take her kid out to lunch at object to the release of the information. If your Mohegan tribal nations. Each entity receiv- McDonalds, a cuisine he apparently prefers to our district has already characterized student names ing funds will be required to commit to cafeteria grub. The problem is that she disrupts and addresses as directory information and noti- "respond at the level of its ability" to a the class every day when she arrives. To make fied parents of their right to object to disclosure, weapons-of-mass-destruction incident, matters worse, she is often late in returning the you may simply release the information. If not, including cooperating as part of a regional student to school after lunch, and the student has you must notify parents of this new law and of response effort. already missed two quizzes in his first afternoon your plan to release the information unless they ***** class. I have tried to reason with this parent, but object. Absent objection, however, you should O School officials from Ellington and she persists in her "demand" (her word, not mine) release the information to the military. Also, the Windsor have teamed up to create the Elling- that she be permitted to take her son out of school law requires that military recruiters be given the ton-Windsor CMT Academy. The three- whenever she wishes. I know that I am a public same access to students as commercial and week program is intended to help 6th and other recruiters. That has been required by Con- servant, but this is ridiculous. Isn't there anything 8th grade students to improve their perfor- necticut law, however, since 1984. that I can do? -Ready for a Fight mance on the Connecticut Mastery Test April/May 2002 3 connecticut news & notes

Activities of CT Graduates O State of Higher Education # of Graduates % of Graduates % of Graduates % of Graduates The CT Department of Higher Education's 2000- 2000 2000 1999 1992 2001 annual report shows that, despite near record numbers of degrees issued by state col- Education leges and universities, graduates in the fields most 4-year college 17,619 59.5 60.6 52.1 critical to the state's workforce are still lacking. The 2-year college 4,687 15.8 15.3 16.9 report, released last month, finds that the number other education 922 3.1 2.7 5.1 of students earning degrees in biology and the physical sciences continues to dwindle, down to Work Force 12% and 2%, respectively. The number of students military 842 2.8 2.4 3.4 receiving nursing and related degrees is down to civilian employment 4,369 14.8 14.8 16.0 737, a 26% decline from 1996-97 and significantly below the projected annual need of appx. 950. unemployed 197 0.7 0.9 2.3 Other 974 3.3 3.3 4.2 Other findings: Total 29,610 100 100 100 • Connecticut colleges and universities awarded a total of 29,687 degrees and certificates last year, Source: Connecticut State Dept of Education only slightly below the total of 29,757 in 1999- 2000. (CMT), while promoting racial diversity on her first sweep of the neighborhood. Her • The top five degree-producing disciplines contin- and multiculturalism. Funded with a efforts may be paying off. Attendance in ue to be business, education, health professions, $55,000 state grant, the CMT Academy the elementary schools has been good so social sciences and liberal arts and sciences. • Women continued to earn more degrees than brings together some 30 minority students far this year, and more and more students men, with 58.4% of all degrees, up from the previ- from Windsor and 20 students from the are aware that the school system is serious ous year's rate of 57.9%. Women, however, predominantly white Ellington school sys- about eliminating truancy. received fewer doctoral degrees and first profes- tem. School officials in Ellington, which ***** sional degrees than men, 746 compared with 830. has a 4% minority student population com- O All of Madison's middle-school students • Students who are members of minority groups pared to Windsor's 55%, say their students attended a free 6-week community training earned more degrees last year than in any previ- get the chance to learn in a more diverse service program, sponsored by the town's ous year, up 4% to 4,621. setting. youth services department. The course • A total of 3,300 students received certification awards in teacher preparation programs. Of those, focused on the meaning and importance of ***** 30% (991) were in elementary education; 21% O Concerned about an increasing number community service. It helped the students (704) in secondary academic subject areas; 12% of student absences in the lower grades, develop the practical skills needed to feel (385) in K-12 special subject areas; 12%(383) in Ansonia now goes looking for youngsters more competent when volunteering in nurs- special education and 10% (339) in pre-K-12 who aren't in the classroom when they ing homes and child-care centers, and administration. should be. Of appx. 1,255 students in working with disabled individuals. Three of • In shortage areas identified by the State Depart- grades K through 5 enrolled in school last the six afternoon sessions consisted of ment of Education, only 150 students received cre- year, 38%, or 478 students, were absent 10 hands-on experience at local community dentials in mathematics, 56 in music, 30 in remedi- or more days. A new social worker, specifi- agencies. For more information about the al reading/language arts, 24 in library media, 21 in cally hired by Ansonia to help solve the program, contact Donna Montelle at Spanish, and 10 in technology education. Copies of the report, "2000-2001 Degrees attendance problem, rounded up 6 truants (203)245-5645. Conferred by Connecticut Institutions of Higher Learning" are available at www.ctdhe.org/info/ D. Harold Goldberg, Former CAS President pdfs/DegConf2000-2001.pdf. and former principal of Clark Lane M.S. in Waterford, was honored with an "Unsung Hero Award" at the 2002 Special Olympics Connecti- cut Awards Banquet on March 19th. Harold Connecticut Vital Signs was a member of the original team which “ State share of local education budgets: secured the grant from Special Olympics Inter- 43.3% “ national allowing the association to establish a Federal special education share of the state budget: 7% Unified Sports® program exclusively for Con- “ In 2000-2001, Connecticut ranked 5th in necticut students. Without Harold, there would the nation in pupil/teacher ratios at 13.2, be no CAS-CIAC Unified Sports® Program, down from 14.4 in 1995-96. which now serves over 1,000 athletes and “ Connecticut ranked 13th in the nation in involves more than 80 elementary, middle and 2000 in high school completion rates for high schools throughout the state. Semi-retired, those under 25 years old. Harold is still very active with the association, “ Connecticut ranked 1st in the nation in serving on the CAS Citation Committee and on 2000 in per capita income. the Middle Level Unified Sports® Committee. (Source: ASBJ: 2001 Education Vital Signs) 4 CAS Bulletin national news & notes

O High school students who take the SAT II P Equality and achievement dent's suicide that have involved educators, subject tests required for admission to many P Community in education including school counselors, teachers, admin- colleges soon will no longer be able to P Teaching materials and training guides. istrators, and school boards. "Suicide Preven- choose which scores the colleges see. Offi- To find out about this valuable new service, tion in Schools: Court Cases and Implications cials of the College Board have announced visit http://bookstore.gpo.gov/alertservice.html. for Principals," which appeared in the March that they will be dropping the score-choice ***** issue of NASSP's Bulletin, presents an over- option that thousands of college-bound stu- O Experts at a recent national forum on view of cases which should help to clarify dents use each year, because it wastes the school violence recommended class-size some of the legal issues of which educators time of high school counselors and college- reduction as an important strategy for reduc- should be aware in relation to suicide. The admissions officers and gives affluent stu- ing violence. They warned schools against article can be accessed at http://www.princi- dents an unfair advantage. Under the 9-year- using excessive security measures, such as pals.org/news/bltn_suicide0302.html. old policy, the officials say, students who can metal detectors, saying that they only create ***** afford the cost and have received better acad- challenges for violent students. Administra- O Scholastic Inc., the New York City-based emic guidance—whether at home or in tors should instead use funding to reduce educational publisher, has launched a tech- school—are able to take the SAT II multiple class size, so teachers can get to know each nology-oriented quarterly magazine aimed at times in an effort to get better scores. Stu- of their students and help prevent them from school administrators, technology directors, dents who are less well-off don't enjoy that feeling alienated. principals, and business managers. The first advantage. The new policy will likely take ***** issue of Scholastic Administr@tor—for win- effect next school year. Students taking SAT O The FBI has released a report to help ter 2002—features stories on school technol- II subject exams this year will still have the schools assess the seriousness of violent ogy planning, professional-development option of withholding scores. (Education threats. The report presents a "four-pronged" strategies, and wireless computing, among Week, March 6, 2002) assessment model for evaluating whether a other topics. Scholastic Administr@tor gives ***** threat is likely to be carried out. This innova - practical, hands-on information on a subject O Many states now offer signing bonuses, tive model is based on the "totality of the cir- that's becoming more important for school relocation expenses, housing subsidies, and cumstances" known about the student in four leaders, said Lars Kongshem, the senior edi- other perks to entice teachers to work in diffi- major areas: (1) personality of the students; tor of the publication. "Technology has cult schools, but a new study has found little (2) family dynamics: (3) school dynamics become essential to both the instructional and research on the impact of such incentive pro- and student's role in them: and (4) social administrative side [of education], so school grams—and some evidence suggesting the dynamics. The report provides details on how administrators need ... a high- level view of programs are not meeting their goals. to assess the threat itself as well as the indi - technology." Information about obtaining Released by the Southeast Center for Teach- vidual who has made the threat. While the copies of the new magazine is available ing Quality, based at the University of North report maintains that "there is no profile of a online at www.scholastic.com/administrator/. Carolina at Chapel Hill, the policy brief sug- school shooter," it lists characteristics that ***** gests that more than money will be needed to might be exhibited by violence-prone stu- O Pregnant women who drink alcohol and attract and retain teachers in hard-to-staff dents. The report can be downloaded at smoke may more than double their child's schools. It recommends that states provide www.fbi.gov/publications/school/school2.pdf. risk of developing attention-deficit/hyperac- scholarships to prepare out-of-field teachers ***** tivity disorder (ADHD), according to a new and paraprofessionals who already work in O After murder and accidents, suicide is report. A team of researchers from Harvard such schools to serve as fully licensed teach- cited as the third leading cause of death for Medical School evaluated the medical ers; recruit accomplished teachers to lead people between the ages of 15 and 24. It is records of 280 children diagnosed with reform efforts in certain schools; and improve estimated that 10% to 15% of all adolescents ADHD whose mothers were interviewed working conditions and school building lead- attempt suicide. In the United States there about lifestyle habits, including smoking and ership in those schools. (Education Week, have been many legal cases concerning a stu- drinking alcohol during their pregnancy. March 6, 2002) These children were compared ***** with another group of 242 chil- O You can now receive free e- dren without ADHD. The mail announcements on new ele- investigators found that, com- mentary and secondary education pared with non-ADHD sub- publications from agencies of the jects, children diagnosed with U.S. government. New titles by ADHD were 2.1 times more Topic E-mail Alert Service, a new likely to have been exposed to program from the U.S. Govern- cigarettes and 2.5 times more ment Printing Office, offers time- likely to have been exposed to ly notifications on the latest edu- alcohol in utero. Previous stud- cation titles as soon as they are ies have found similar associa- available for purchase. Education tions. "If further studies of this publications include: association uncover mecha- P Educational research nisms that lead to ADHD in P Technology in education children, it may be possible to P Statistical reports develop more efficient clinical P Directories of public “I certainly have given it a great deal of thought and my answer is interventions," the report con- schools and education agencies still ‘tails’. . .I mean no.” cludes. (Reuters Health, Mar 27) April/May 2002 5 The JOHN GOETZ NAMED TOP HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ongratulations to John Goetz, prin- 50th Annual cipal of Danbury High School, who Cwas named the 2002 CAS High School Principal of the Year! Principal of Meeting the largest high school in Connecticut, Mr. Goetz has achieved the difficult task of of the Connecticut Association building a comprehensive school which is of Schools responsive to the changing needs of an increasingly diverse student body. He has accomplished this through strong organiza- May 9, 2002 tional skills, exemplary leadership and an at the Central Office unyielding professional focus. "You have to look at the fact that Danbury High School is the largest high John Goetz, Danbury High School Principal Please join us for this school in the state to really appreciate importantimportant meetingmeeting andand taketake aa John's abilities," says Danbury Superinten- allows others to provide leadership while tourtour ofof thethe newly-expandednewly-expanded dent Timothy Connors. "There is such he diplomatically provides guidance and tremendous diversity at Danbury. His orga- support," says Glass. office facility! nizational abilities make the school run Mr. Goetz has worked aggressively to For registration information, contact smoothly." make use of emerging technologies that Karen Packtor, [email protected] . During his eight years as principal of not only improve curriculum and student Danbury High School, Mr. Goetz has learning, but also streamline building man- legal news & notes demonstrated an exceptional ability to find agement. He has equipped the school and build upon the strengths of his staff building with 600 networked computers, O The U.S. Supreme Court declined last week to members, to generate community support making sure that there is at least one com- step into the debate over the legality of high- for and involvement in school programs, puter in every classroom. A full-time stakes testing. Without comment, the justices and to foster a positive school climate with technology leader, a data specialist and a refused to hear the appeal of a Louisiana parents' high staff and student morale. network administrator provide on-site tech- group that alleged the state's testing program for "Under his leadership, students, facul- nological expertise and much-needed pro- 4th and 8th graders violated the students' 14th ty and staff have developed a sense of fessional development and training for fac- Amendment right to due process of law. The pride in . . . the positive reputation the ulty and staff. Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Sec- school currently enjoys," says Stan CAS Executive Director Mike Savage ondary Education in 2000 adopted a policy of Watkins, a parent in the Danbury commu- praised Mr. Goetz's leadership abilities. mandatory nonpromotion of students who fail nity. "He has vastly improved the percep- "John was selected as 2002 Principal of either the mathematics or English portion of the tion of the school within the myriad of the Year because he is a man of vision, test. During the 2000-01 school year, some community groups and organizations, once skill and persistence who is committed to 18,000 Louisiana students were denied promotion quite hostile toward Danbury High and actively engaged in the promotion of based on their performance on the test, according School," continues Watkins. quality educational experiences for his stu- to court documents. The parent group's 2000 law- A "hands-on" administrator, Mr. dents," says Savage. "He has worked suit challenging the testing program alleged that Goetz is actively involved in all aspects of aggressively to promote cooperation and the state had denied the property rights of failing curriculum development at Danbury High respect for the educational process and to students without due process of law. A federal School. According to Danbury's assistant create an atmosphere conducive to learning, district judge in New Orleans ruled that year, superintendent, William Glass, Mr. Goetz enrichment, improvement and progress." however, that while courts have recognized a "closely monitors the instructional pro- Mr. Goetz earned both a bachelor's property interest in receiving a diploma, "no court gram, reviews and analyzes test data, and master's degree in Economics from has ever recognized a property interest in promo- supervises the daily instructional program, Fordham University in New York; and he tion." The appeal in Parents Against Testing and makes the numerous changes neces- completed his sixth year certificate in edu- Before Teaching v. Orleans Parish School Board sary to operate an effective educational cational administration at Fairfield Univer- was the first over high-stakes testing to reach the program." sity. He began his professional career in Supreme Court since the recent blooming of the Always forward looking, Mr. Goetz 1968 as a social studies teacher at Sacred school accountability movement. continually challenges himself and his staff Heart High School in Yonkers, NY. In to identify issues, rethink current practices 1973, he relocated to Connecticut where O Connecticut: In January, 2002, a superior court judge ruled that the State Commission on Human and explore alternative paths. he worked for eight years at Joel Barlow High School, Redding, first as a teacher Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) has the author- Mr. Goetz is a low-key but effective ity to hear discrimination complaints from stu- administrator, as ever ready to learn and and later as an athletic director and assis- dents in public schools. The judge relied on a listen as to guide and instruct. He empow- tant principal. In 1985, after returning briefly to New York state, Mr. Goetz was previous case, CHRO v Sullivan Associates, SC ers his staff to be partners in the decision- 16042, October 12, 1999, in which the Court making process and works side-by-side appointed principal of Platt High School in ruled that the Connecticut General Statutes did with them to develop and implement a Meriden. In 1994, after nine years at Platt, not give boards of education exclusive jurisdic- vision for improved educational opportuni- he assumed the role of principal of Danbury tion over public school discrimination complaints. ties. "His management style is such that he High School, the position he now holds. 6 CAS Bulletin

CT STUDENTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE - 2002 1st Annual Student Leadership Conference By Mike Buckley, Ph.D., Assistant Executive Director

On March 15 & 16, 2002, 110 students over 300 separate food and advisers from twenty-six Connecticut items which were High Schools gathered at the Holiday Inn in donated to St. Vincent Cromwell, CT, for a 2-day student leadership DePaul Place in Mid- conference. Sponsored by the Connecticut dletown; Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) P break-out sessions and the Connecticut Association of Athletic facilitated by student Directors (CAAD), with support from Cingu- leaders from lar Wireless, this first-time event is part of an Cromwell, Plainville, initiative to tap the potential that exists in and Staples (Westport) students who participate in athletics and High Schools focusing other activities in order to enhance the climate on the themes of posi- for teaching and learning in CT schools. tive values and per- Highlights of the conference included: spectives, respect and ful wellness message in an upbeat and mov- P a welcoming address from Cingular Gener- sportsmanship, and citizenship and team- ing way. al Manager Bob Puglielli highlighting the work. These students epitomized the confer- Each of the twenty-six school teams variables he saw contributing to success not ence motto (CT Students Making A Differ- rated the conference activities as either just in business but in life. These included ence) not only by their quality work here but excellent or outstanding; as important, they respect ("Respect is basic. Everything else also by serving as the planning committee left with formal plans to make a difference builds upon this."), cooperation, finding joy that helped CIAC/CAAD organize the con- upon their return to their home schools. in your work, and pursuing excellence. Bob ference; Each team has been asked to share its plan also demonstrated with his audience the P a leadership practicum facilitated by with its principal and to file the plan with power of visualization to help one exceed Jennifer Buckley of Wesleyan University's CIAC/CAAD. Next year participating personal limits; Upward Bound Program and staff from the schools will be surveyed to determine what P a keynote address from Ray Reid, Great Hollow Wilderness School in New positive changes occurred as a result of this UCONN Soccer Head Coach, chronicling Fairfield, CT. Here students and advisors conference. the 2000 NCAA championship and the hard participated in a number of challenge and The conference organizing committee work that led up to it. According to Ray, experiential activities designed to extend (Marty Lisevick, Staples H.S. in Westport, this success stemmed from discipline, coop- limits and demonstrate the power of coopera- John Zadnik, Plainville H.S., and Beth Sar- eration, and the pursuit of excellence, and tive action within a group; nacki, Cromwell H.S.) will meet soon to featured a team with individuals who consis- P an address at the closing assembly by begin planning for next year's conference. tently exceeded personal limits and collec- Tom Farley of the Chris Farley Foundation Our goal for the Second Annual CIAC/ tively "refused to lose;" of New York focusing on the theme of CAAD Student Leadership Conference is P at registration, participants contributed Think-Laugh-Live. Tom delivered a power- fifty schools and 250 students.

Top 10 Traits of School Leaders Governor’s Scholars, CAS OFFICERS: 2001-2002 continued from page 1 Educational World recently asked principals which President...... Tony Molinaro, King St. Inter. All of the distinguished nomi - Vice President.....Allen Fossbender, Joel Barlow HS traits they felt were important in school leaders. nees will be recognized at their Secretary...... Donald Gates, Portland HS Treasurer...... Elaine Bessette, Greenwich HS 10. Offers meaningful kindnesses and kudos to staff schools for their outstanding and students. work and participation in this CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF 9. Is a role model for students and staff. program. The twenty students Michael H. Savage...... Executive Director 8. Has a sense of humor. listed above will attend the Gov- Earle Bidwell...... Asst. Executive Director Michael Buckley...... Asst. Executive Director 7. Shows that he or she is not in charge alone and ernor's Reception at The Hartford Robert Carroll...... Asst. Executive Director involves others in decision making. Club on May 30, 2002. At the Thomas Galvin...... Asst. Executive Director 6. Develops strong teachers; cultivates good teaching reception, Governor's Scholars Anthony Mosa...... Asst. Executive Director Ann Malafronte...... Director of Unified Sports® practice. will receive recognition as well Karen Packtor...... Editor, Asst. Exec Director 5. Helps develop leadership skills in others. as information on participation in 4. Is trustworthy and straightforward with students courses and research projects at THE BULLETIN and staff. Published monthly except July, August and Sept. by selected Connecticut colleges the Connecticut Association of Schools at 30 Realty 3. Is visible -- gets out of the office and is seen all and universities. Included in the Dr., Cheshire, CT, 06410. Phone: (203)250-1111. over the school. latter is a four-year, half-tuition Subscriptions to the BULLETIN are a membership service; subscription costs are $5.00 for senior high 2. Clearly states goals and expectations for students, scholarship to the University of staff, and parents. schools; $1.00 for middle leveland elementary Connecticut for any of the twen- schools; $1.00 for associate and retired members. 1. Has a stated vision for the school and a plan to ty Governor's Scholars who Third class postage paid at New Haven, CT. Permit achieve that vision. #561. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to -- (Dateline NAESP) choose to matriculate there. BULLETIN, 30 Realty Drive, Cheshire, CT 06410. April/May 2002 7 25th ANNUAL ASST PRINCIPALS' CONFERENCE A SUCCESS CANHS CORNER . . . by Mike Buckley, Ph.D., Assistant Executive Director The Connecticut Association of National Honor Societies was established in 1998 under Let me tell you, you've never had a bad day! the auspices of the Connecticut Association of So stated keynote speaker Bill Bond to the Schools (CAS) in accordance with its goal to more than 180 assistant principals and adminis- provide more opportunities for student leader- trative aspirants gathered in the ballroom of the ship. The purpose of CANHS, an affiliate of the Holiday Inn in Cromwell at the start of the National Honor Society, is to create enthusiasm 25th Annual Assistant Principals' Conference for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render on March 19th. Bond, the former principal of service, to promote leadership, and to develop Paducah (KY) High School and current character in the NHS members of Connecticut. NASSP Practitioner in Residence for Safe and For further information about CANHS, contact Orderly Schools and School Improvement, Don Gates, principal of Portland High School, drew upon his experiences with one of the first at (860)342-1720. school shootings to provide guidance not only in responding to a crises but in developing and Amity Principal Ed Goldstone and Paula Biondino maintaining a climate supportive of all stu- Upcoming Conference dents. Stressing the importance of relation- cialist; and Cindi Yakoubian, Community Features National Speaker ships among the people in school, he asked Resource Coordinator, shared the benefits and By Brendan Neagle, Southington H.S. rhetorically, "Where does your discipline come successes of a city-wide collaboration between NHS State Newsletter Editor from? Why is it that your referrals come from the schools, the police, and the youth and fami- the same teachers while others (who get the ly service agency in South Windsor. The Connecticut Association of National relationship piece right) never send you kids?" Following the luncheon, Dr. Edward Gold- Honor Societies' executive board has been busy He urged administrators "to be in the halls" stone, Principal of Amity Regional High planning the Third Annual State Conference. anytime kids are and predicted that a 10:00 School in Woodbridge, spoke movingly about his colleague and friend, Boyd Biondino, long- Members were excited about having scheduled a.m. disciplinary meeting with a student in the office would go better if you'd already connect- time assistant principal at Bristol Eastern High the nationally renowned speaker Ed Gerety to ed before school in one of the common areas of School, who died last fall after a courageous deliver the keynote address. In addition, there the building. He also stressed the importance struggle with cancer. He then presented Mrs. are several important items for those planning of a collaborative approach to improving cli- Paula Biondino with a plaque dedicating the to attend the conference on May 23. mate citing the positive roles played by his Site 25th Annual Assistant Principals' Conference First and foremost is the election of Council (three teachers, two parents, and the to the memory of Boyd and with a check for officers to the executive board. Contrary to principal - mandated by Kentucky law) and the Boyd Biondino Memorial Scholarship at tradition, nominations for officers will not be School Climate Committee in helping the Padu- Bristol Eastern High School donated by confer- entertained from the floor on the day of the cah school community cope, heal, and carry on. ence registrants. conference. Instead, member schools will Participants had an opportunity to follow- The 2002 CAS Assistant Principals of the receive forms for their students. These are up with Bill in two breakout sessions in which Year were also acknowledged as follows: self-nomination forms and must be filled out he focused specifically on the mechanics of · Walter Zalaski, Simsbury High School; · Laura Russo, Hill Central School, New Haven; completely and returned by May 10th. developing and keeping current a crises plan. Other sessions that ran concurrently and con- · Rochelle Schwartz, Litchfield High School There are five student officer positions: nected to the conference theme of A Day in the (also recognized as NASSP Assistant president, vice president, secretary, state Life of an Assistant Principal included: Principal of the Year). newsletter editor, and middle school represen- P Dr. Margo Maine, a researcher and clini- Following the dedication and awards, Dr. tative. The president is responsible for setting cian, discussed strategies for helping adoles- Gerald Tirozzi, Executive Director of the the agenda for each meeting, presiding at all cent girls cope with the pervasive pressure for National Association of Secondary School meetings, and representing the association at perfection. Principals, challenged his audience to assume a role that transcends discipline. "It's about state and national conferences. The vice presi- P Attorney Thomas Mooney of Shipman being bored and not able to read," he stated, dent (elected by receiving the second-highest & Goodwin, LLP, presented some situations amount of votes in the presidential race) per- that an assistant principal might encounter "and that situation cries out for reformers, not disciplinarians." He than reiterated that reform forms all duties in the absence of the president during the course of a "typical" day, and then is possible since we know its components and coordinates state projects. The secretary is discussed possible responses and their ramifi- including curriculum (rigorous and relevant), charged with communication among the mem- cations. pre-school education (more and earlier), read- bers of the board, including keeping minutes at Dr. Kenneth Roy, K-12 Director of Science P ing support at middle and high (here's where and Safety for the Glastonbury Public Schools, meetings and conducting all correspondence. the gap widens for poor readers), instructional addressed a variety of environmental issues The state newsletter editor conducts all activi- leadership (amber waves of grain, not victory that impact safety in schools. ties dealing with communication among the gardens meaning we can't wait to do this one schools, including writing this column. Final- P Ms. Susan MacLaughlin, Director of the school at a time), and teacher quality (kids ly, the middle school representative acts as a Dept. of Mental Health and Addictive Services' don't respect incompetence). liaison between state middle schools and the Gambling Treatment Program, and Ms. Jan Conference co-chairs Anne Jarvis, Assis- CANHS. Laster, Prevention Partnership Director for tant Principal at Glastonbury High School, RYASAP, discussed the warning signs for teen Secondly, the board has announced that it Kathy Barmak, Assistant Principal at East problem gamblers as well as action planning to will have a new award at the State Conference Windsor Jr.-Sr. High School, and Sally Biggs, prevent problem gambling in schools. this spring. The Outstanding Chapter Award Assistant Principal at South Windsor High P Elsie Diax, School Resource Officer; Den- School, were pleased both with the level of will honor the chapter whose performance has nis Sheridan, Director of Youth and Family participation and the quality of the presenters. continued on page 11 Services; Kathy Danais, School Outreach Spe- Initial feedback was extremely positive. 8 CAS Bulletin middle school news Record Numbers Addressed by Amy Barzach Newsletter Notes at Middle Level Leadership Conference O Advice for Backpack Use By Earle G. Bidwell, Assistant Executive Director These days part of a student's routine in preparing for school is packing their backpacks. Recent stud- Almost six hundred ies have shown an increasing concern regarding students, teachers, and potential health risks to children due to excessive weight held in the packs as well as being improperly advisors turned out at packed. Back pain and strain are real problems, Quinnipiac University on which can be linked to a heavy backpack. Some March 12, 2002 for guidelines* to help prevent back pain are: "Making Acceptance · A filled backpack should weigh no more than Acceptable," the annual 20% of your child's total body weight. Encourage student leadership train- children to carry only what they really need. ing conference. The · The pack should be worn as close to your child's keynote address was body as possible, especially if your child walks to delivered by Amy school. It is recommended that your child use both Barzach, founder of shoulder straps and the pelvic strap that attaches Boundless Playgrounds, a across the waist to help distribute the weight most nonprofit organization evenly. that designs and facili- · If wearing a strap isn't possible (or preferred), tates the development of Amy Barzach from Boundless Playgrounds addresses the child should alternate shoulders. playgrounds that are uni- the assembly. · Distribute the weight as evenly as possible in the versally accessible to all pack to ensure that the load is balanced. children. · When buying a pack, choose one with padded Ms. Barzach's inspiring story told of how one person with a dream, perseverance and shoulder straps for cushioning. dedication could bring about great things. Having experienced tragedy in her personal life, Some parents wonder if backpacks might con- she decided to leave the corporate world and dedicate her life to helping others. Her goal is tribute to poor posture or scoliosis (curvature of the to have accessible playgrounds within one hour of every child in the United States. To date, spine). An excessively heavy backpack won't cause over 44 Boundless Playgrounds have been built with more that 100 underway in the United bad posture. Current research suggests no connec- States. Additionally, playgrounds are in progress in Mexico, Norway, India and Canada. tion between backpacks and scoliosis. Mrs. Barzach has been honored by Parenting magazine, which salutes outstanding Americans * Guidelines from Dr. Paul Sponseller, Johns Hopkins who have made a difference in Children's lives. Health Center, 9/16/98. Those assembled also heard from Back Beat Company, a musical ensemble from Smith Middle School in Glastonbury under the direction of Greg Colossale. The group sang Peter "In the Middle," Yarrow's "Don't Laugh at Me" and led the entire group in an inspiring rendition of "God John F. Kennedy Middle School, Enfield Bless America." Following the general session, student participants went to a series of breakout sessions O Plain Talk to Parents About Threats entitled Building a Climate of Acceptance and Heroes Among Us that were led by Connecticut Students at Griswold Middle School are generally guidance counselors, teachers, youth officers and State Police. A session called Making A dif- well behaved and rarely find themselves in trouble ference in Your School was facilitated by students from Glastonbury High School, Canton High for serious issues. However, occasionally, a student School, Brookfield High School, Avon High School and Old Saybrook High School. Seventh will make a comment that can get him in a great grader Matt Cavedon from McGee Middle School in Berlin led a special breakout session. Matt deal of trouble. Above all else, making threatening already makes a difference as a leader in his school and community and as the creator of Friend- comments to another individual can earn a student ship Place, a Boundless Playground in his hometown. Matt has convinced others to help in his several days of external suspension, or even arrest. quest through his considerable speaking skills and his ability to give people information that This is especially true if the student mentions using they can relate to. In Matt's own words, "…I had a local Brownie Troop think of their favorite a weapon of any sort. We understand that children piece of (playground) equipment, and then imagine that they couldn't play on it. That is what make "off the cuff" statements and have no intention it is like to not be able to play on a playground. I had the Town Council imagine that they could of following through on their threats. However, we help Berlin become a more accessible town. Finally for seniors, I had them imagine taking their live in a day where schools are obligated to respond grandkids to a playground where they too could enjoy themselves." to threats regardless of how serious we believe the Finally, all participants were challenged to return to their schools, make a difference and threat may be. Students have been reminded of the "make acceptance acceptable." Through the generosity of CAS's corporate partner, Connecti- seriousness of this behavior on many occasions. cut Lighting Centers, participants have a chance to apply for the Arthur Director Award (named They have been told that making a threat, even as a in honor of the founder of Connecticut Lighting Centers) for projects or programs that best joke, must be taken seriously. There is nobody in exemplify the lessons learned at the conference. Last year's winning team from Old Saybrook the school who does not understand that making a Middle School was on hand to share their experiences and relate their successes through a work- threat will get them in serious trouble. We ask the shop. These students are the latest in a long line of students from middle schools in Connecti- help of all parents to reinforce this issue at home. cut who make significant, "real world" contributions to their schools, communities and state. Our goal is to prevent our students from being sus- We salute them and all those who came to the conference and who will return home to make pended, or worse, for making threatening state- their schools better places for all students. ments. As always, we invite your suggestions and The conference was a huge success in large part due to the efforts of the Student Leader- comments. ship Committee headed by Jody Goeler, Principal of Avon M.S. and the Connecticut Lighting "Griswold Middle School Newsletter," Albert D. Centers for their encouragement and support. Griswold M.S. Rocky Hill April/May 2002 9 . . . more middle school news

PAUL CAVALIERE NAMED MIDDLE LEVEL PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

High School brought with it the after a 15-year hiatus. "He has a unique ability to chal- responsibility to transform a Mr. Cavaliere has been a lenge himself, his staff, and his grade 7 and 8 junior high into a leader in strengthening relation- students to meet higher stan- grade 6-8 middle school. He ships with parents. Maryann dards," says Savage. faced a similar challenge when Doyle, president of the Sage A 1974 graduate of Wash- he was appointed principal of Park Middle School Parent- ington and Lee University in Sage Park Middle School in Teacher-Student Association, Virginia, Cavaliere earned a 1999. praises Mr. Cavaliere for his master's degree from Central "Paul has done a wonderful efforts to involve families in all Connecticut State University in job moving Sage Park forward aspects of the school operation. 1979 and returned to Central to toward the middle school model "Mr. Cavaliere is sincerely inter- complete his sixth year certifi- and away from the junior high ested in every child's academic cate in administration in 1983. Paul Cavaliere, Jr., Principal Sage Park M.S., Windsor school model," says Windsor development and success. To He began his professional career Superintendent Thomas Martin. that end, he works collaborative- in 1975 as a social studies aul Cavaliere, Jr., principal "It is impossible to make dra- ly with our school's parent group teacher at Saint James School in of Sage Park Middle matic changes without ruffling to develop a partnership which Manchester. In 1977, he trans- PSchool in Windsor, was feathers, but Paul has done an benefits both parents and their ferred to the Middletown school named the 2002 CAS Middle outstanding job, with the best students," says Ms. Doyle. system where he worked for School Principal of the Year. A interest of kids always first in Mr. Cavaliere's success as a eight years, first as a teacher and 27-year veteran educator, Mr. his mind. He works as hard as building administrator is best later as an instructional leader Cavaliere has been a tireless anyone in that building; he rolls described by Chris Rau and John and assistant principal. In 1985 worker and leader in middle up his sleeves alongside all the Barresi, two team leaders at he became assistant principal of level education in Connecticut. faculty and staff," continues Sage Park, who state, "We have Plainville High School and, two In his thirteen years as a Martin. worked with Mr. Cavaliere for short years later, he was appoint- principal, Mr. Cavaliere has dis- Since his arrival at Sage the last three years and it is clear ed principal of the Middle tinguished himself as a passion- Park two years ago, Mr. Cava- that Paul has one overriding goal School of Plainville. In 1999 he ate advocate of the middle liere has worked vigorously to for Sage Park Middle School – assumed the role of principal of school philosophy. He has suc- create an effective house struc- constant improvement." Sage Park Middle School, the cessfully transformed two junior ture, revise the school schedule, CAS Executive Director position he now holds. high schools into effective mid- and develop and implement an Mike Savage describes Mr. Cav- An active member of CAS- dle schools which now serve as Alternative Learning Center pro- aliere as a man who "demon- CIAC since 1990, Mr. Cavaliere small, caring communities of gram. He has also been the dri- strates strong academic leader- currently serves as chair of the learning where team leadership ving force behind two new pro- ship skills, an acute intellectual Mentor-Mentee Committee of is prized and parents are fully grams designed to assist students curiosity, and a clear sense of the Connecticut Principals' Cen- engaged in the lives of their stu- not meeting goal on state tests personal purpose which focuses ter and as a member of the Con- dents. In 1987, his appointment and he has re-introduced inter- on a wholistic approach to meet- necticut Assn. of Middle School as principal of Plainville Junior scholastic sports at Sage Park ing the needs of his students." Principals' Board of Directors.

Editorial note from Earle Bidwell: My observation upon reading dozens of newsletters from all over Connecticut and several from other CEAE Workshops states is that educators are so intent on imparting information to par- The Center for Early Adolescent Educa- ents and the community that they often overlook opportunities to share their wisdom. Following is a personal glimpse that makes a principal tors recently hosted a highly successful more real to her readers and offers sound advice for living a healthy life. workshop series entitled "Terrific Teams" at the CAS Conference Center. O From the Office of the Principal Cori-Ann Marino, Dolores Callegher and Steve Donnelly, from Albert D. As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. Having spent four Griswold Middle School in Rocky Hill, led a two-part series entitled "Help- days over the February break with two brothers and a sister visiting ing Each Student Succeed". Participants focused on balanced instruction, Dad in Florida, I laughed so much I had to ask them to stop talking so I team-based grouping and effective strategic learning practices. could catch my breath! Without spouses or children along, we felt like kids again. We played in the sun, helped our father with his chores and NELMS Executive Director Bob Spear led a series entitled "Team Leaders told stories of the fun we had together growing up. The stories may and Leadership Teams." Bob focused on facilitation skills, asking the right have changed somewhat over the years, with some of the details and questions, agenda management and building productive relationships characters faded or enhanced by memory, but the essence was that among team members. looking back at our childhood, among the good times and the bad, we have stuck together and are now good friends. I feel truly grateful for The Center Advisory Board is now soliciting topics or ideas for future work- this connection, knowing that others are not so fortunate. I encourage shops designed specifically for teachers or team leaders. If there are work students and families to appreciate and develop friendships and connec- tions now, which many just last a lifetime! Kathy C. White, Principal shops that you would like to see offered, please contact Earle Bidwell at the Jared Eliot Middle School Newsletter, Clinton CAS office and share your views (203.250.1111 or [email protected]). 10 CAS Bulletin elementary news MEET THE NAESP CANDIDATES . . . The NAESP elections are right around the corner. Here is glimpse of the candidates who are running in this year’s elections! P believe the K-8 principalship “Today’s Children, “Iis the best job in the field of Tomorrow’s Future” education. We share in the dreams R and trials of the children we serve. merica's future rests in the E We see the sparkle in their eyes as “Ahands of today's children. they first learn to read, and we dry Those children depend on the S their tears when life just doesn't leadership of principals who seem fair. We work with parents understand their distinct differ- I and teachers to ensure each and ences and who have a vision for every child has opportunities to be the future. NAESP is a leader in D successful. We are united in our helping to develop that vision. A efforts to shepherd all children into Hispanic principal of a K-8 school E a brighter tomorrow. in an urban area in Texas, I am N My name is Tony Harduar and ANTHONY (TONY) HARDUAR uniquely qualified to spread the RAMON E. RIVERA I'm proud to be the principal of message that the key to our chil- T Central Elementary School in Ferndale, Washington. I am proud to be dren's difference in the classroom lies with the principals' absolute a member of NAESP, and to serve on its board of directors. I'm seek- understanding of how diversity affects the education of a child. ing the position of President-elect because I have the skills and lead- Serving on behalf of principals at the local, state, regional and ership abilities to make a difference in the lives of children. Together national levels, I am familiar with the unique challenges faced E we can create opportunities to bring the needs of children and schools throughout different areas of the nation. From the rural to the to the forefront of policy discussions. Together we can address the suburban, I know the power that diversity brings to our organization. L needs at the state and national levels and influence decisions that We must recruit both minority and non-minority leaders who under- affect education and the children of our nation. stand the importance of a cultural identity and who can serve as role E I am a dedicated, experienced leader and have worked hard at models. local, state, and national levels to ensure children receive the best edu- Principals, coming together as champions for all children, do C cation this nation can deliver. I have the skills, experience, and lead- make a difference in the lives of the children in their care. Together, ership ability to address the challenges facing education. I have and we can prepare “Today's Children for Tomorrow's Future.” I request T will continue to champion the cause of children. Let us stand your support and vote for NAESP President-Elect.” together united for children.”

would like to take this opportu- Z “Inity to say "hello" to my Zone 1 colleagues. I am a candidate for O NAESP Zone 1 Director and I Vote for Zone 1 Director would like your support and vote in T Richard (Dick) Taylor N the May election. I have been in public education Experienced leadership E for 28 years; the last 12 years as an elementary principal. I have been Dick Taylor will: an NAESP State Representative • Speak in one voice. 1 from Maine as well as served on the National Nominating Committee. I • Listen to members. have served on many committees in • Respond to the issues. my state association. I have really • Share and communicate DANA FOLSOM D enjoyed working with your state information. RICHARD (DICK) TAYLOR I leaders, over the past several years, on issues that affect students, the • Continue strong relationships principalship and our association. If elected, I would continue to col- with State associations. laborate with NAESP members and state leaders in hopes of making a • Address leadership shortage Please R difference at the local, state and national levels. One of the most pressing issues is special education funding. The from Zone and National Vote! E escalation of costs falling upon the local districts is staggering. I am perspective. C committed to dialoguing with legislators and fighting for this issue on behalf of students and their families, and local and state agencies. Richard Taylor -- advocating for T My leadership philosophy is based on clear and consistent commu- nication. I subscribe to consensus building and a sharing in the deci- Leaders and Learners O sion making process. I do believe in sharing leadership and involving teachers in leadership roles. I have the experience, desire and commit- n President, Vermont Principals' Association n R ment to be your Zone 1 Director. It would be an honor and a privilege to serve you, your state and our association. Please vote when you n NAESP Credentials Committee n receive your ballot this spring. Thank you.” n 20+ years in Education n April/May 2002 11 . . . more elementary news ciac news News from the National Association of Elementary School Principals GOOD NEWS! O 2002 President's Education Awards Program New Online Eligibility System Feature Allows Import- The President's Education Awards Program (PEAP), ing of Schedule Information sponsored by the U. S. Department of Education in N We are pleased to announce that, due to a number of requests from partnership with NAESP and the National Association athletic directors and secretaries, we have added a batch importing of of Secondary School Principals, was developed to help schedules feature to the CIAC Online Eligibility System. A principals recognize and honor those students who have The batch import option is now available for the seven spring achieved high academic goals by their hard work and sports which require the filing of schedules. To perform a batch dedication to learning. Participation in the program import of a schedule: grows each year with 57,000 schools and nearly three 1) Export your schedule as a tab-delimited text file from your and one half million students receiving these esteemed database (i.e. Access, Excel, Filemaker Pro, etc.). Each awards in 2000. Students are eligible for one of two S game or match should be on one line. Each line should contain honors: the President's Award for Educational Excel- two fields, separated by a tab, in either of the following lence or the President's Award for Educational Achieve- formats: P ment. For each award, students receive certificates MM/DD/YY[tab]Opponent(s) signed by the President, the U.S. Secretary of Educa- or tion, and principals. A congratulatory letter from the MM-DD-YY[tab]Opponent(s) President is included with the awards. There are also Be sure that your dates all having leading zeros for C optional lapel pins, inscribed with the Presidential Seal, single-digit days and months. to accompany the certificates. There's no limit on the 2) Copy your data to your clipboard. number of awards that your school can order, as long as o 3) Go to the eligibility center, select the "Submit Schedule" the students meet the criteria presented. Recognition of option for your sport, then click on the "batch import" link their outstanding effort and achievement is vital for near the top of the schedule entry page. motivating students to be successful. For more informa- r 4) Paste your schedule data into the text box on the import tion about the program, visit page, fill in any miscellaneous info required for the sport in http://www.naesp.org/misc/peap.htm. n the fields at the bottom of the form, then click the "batch O Talking the Talk import" button. Your data will be checked and you will be What are the qualities that make you an outstanding informed of any errors, or that your schedule has been e successfully imported. leader? When was the last time you took a moment to think deeply about your own practice? Who do you r connect with for support and advice? Now we have a As with the import features on the student eligibility forms, forum for you! A new listserv called LEADERS the batch import can only be used to import your initial schedule. REFLECT will kick off this month funded with a "Ventures Once you have any schedule information on file for a sport, changes in Leadership" Grant from the Wallace-Reader's Digest must be made using the regular pages for entering schedules and/or Funds. Through the listserv, NAESP will develop an online results. learning community to explore its new standards for what We hope you find this new feature helpful. Please feel free to principals should know and be able to do. The first question: contact Karen Packtor at the central office with any questions or com- how do you balance leadership and management responsibil- ments regarding the CIAC Online Eligibility System. ities on a daily basis? To sign up for the discussion, send an e-mail message to [email protected]. In the body of CIAC WEBSITE UPDATE: Members Schools the e-mail type: "subscribe principalstandards" followed by Take Advantage of Electronic Filing Option your e-mail address. Beginning in the fall of 2001, member schools were invited -- though NOT required -- to submit all of their tournament forms through the CIAC Online Eligibility System. We are proud to report that, for the NAHSP, continued from page 7 current sports season (spring 2002), 118 schools have submitted at best reflected the ideals of the National Honor Society and who least one schedule online! A total of 952 schedules have been sub- have promoted Character, Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and mitted electronically since last fall, with 384 submitted this season! Citizenship not only within its organization and school, but also in its communities and throughout the state. This is a way of Here is a breakdown of the 384 spring sports schedules submitted to recognizing the efforts of the honor societies statewide. Advi- date: sors will receive applications for this honor, which will include • 88 were in the sport of baseball (out of 173) background information and description of service projects. • 43 were in the sport of golf (out of 159) All applications should be included with registrations forms • 14 were in the sport of lacrosse (out of 56) and submitted by April 30th at the latest. • 70 were in the sport of boys’ tennis (out of 149) If there are any questions about the conference, election of • 15 were in the sport of boys’ volleyball (out of 27) officers, or the Outstanding Chapter Award, feel free to contact • 86 were in the sport of softball (out of 175) Mr. Gates at Portland High School. The executive board looks • 68 were in the sport of girls’ tennis (out of 142) forward to seeing everyone in May. 12 CAS Bulletin ciac news O At its March 21st meeting, the response to a recent book by James Bats with BESR Standard Legal CIAC board voted to continue the L. Shulman and William G. Bowen, Immediately in High School Baseball 40% qualifying standard for the "The Game of Life: College Sports INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 9, 2002) - Effective immediately, any and Educational Values," which 2002 baseball tournament. The 40% bat that meets the Ball Exit Speed Ratio (BESR) performance argues that elite colleges and larger standard was put in place, on a trial standard (BESR certification mark on the bat) is legal for high universities make similar compro- basis, during 2001 tournament sea- school baseball competition governed by son. Because the change allowed for mises for their athletic programs. National Federation of State High School Associations rules. a better balance in the number of Meanwhile, in the Ivy League, uni- In June 2001, the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee voted teams in each of the four divisions, versity presidents have asked their that all non-wood bats must have the BESR certification mark athletic directors to consider reduc- the board voted to continue the new to be legal for high school baseball, effective January 1, 2003. ing the size of squads in several standard in the current year. Since many bats with the BESR standard are already on the sports. [The Chronicle of Higher market, this interpretation by the NFHS allows those bats to be O Also at its March 21st meeting, Education, 3/8/02] the CIAC board voted to allow used in the 2002 high school season. "When purchasing bats, individuals can now be assured that no matter what materials spring practice to continue in the O CHARACTER COUNTS! sport of football. Board members are used in the bat composition, if it has the BESR certification Sports of the Josephson Institute for mark, it is legal," said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS assistant director based their decision, in part, on the Ethics has just published a docu- results of a survey of coaches con- and liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee. "Whether the bat ment called "Pursuing Victory With composition is titanium, ceramic or whatever, if it has the cerning this issue. Ninety-five per- Honor: A Game Plan for Amateur cent of the 127 coaches who com- BESR mark, it can be used immediately." Basketball." It resulted from a sum- Hopkins said that bats with the BESR mark still are not pleted the survey expressed a desire mit of many of the nation's most to continue spring practice. The required until January 1, 2003. Bats that are legal by current influential leaders in collegiate and rules still can be used for the 2002 season; however, all bats board granted the continuance of high school basketball, and sets spring football practice with the must have the BESR mark for the 2003 season. forth principles and standards for The BESR mark ensures a maximum exit speed of 97 stipulation that students participat- sportsmanship and character build- ing in a spring sport must complete miles per hour and that the bat has met the moment-of-inertia ing. You can download a FREE requirement. In addition, bat rules that were changed for the their season before participating in copy from the Character Counts! spring practice. 2001 season, which are also a part of the BESR standard, web site at www.charactercounts.org/ have the following requirements: maximum of 2 5/8 inches for sports/gameplan-basketball.pdf. Or O The Annual Survey of Football the diameter of the bat barrel and a minus-3 differential you can receive a Word version of Injury research reported eight fatali- between the length and weight of the bat (a 33-inch-long bat, ties directly related to football dur- the document by e-mailing Charac - for example, cannot weigh less than 30 ounces). ing the 2001 season. That figure [email protected] and just All recent changes in bat requirements have been to mini- represents an increase from three inserting the words "Game Plan" in mize the risk of injury to high school student-athletes, and fatalities in the 200 season. Of the the subject line. maintain the balance between offense and defense and keep eight, seven of those deaths hap- within the sound traditions of the game. pened at the high school level while participating in game competition. NF Publishes brochure on foreign student eligibility Five resulted from an injury to the brain, one from a fractured neck and The National Federation has published a brochure that is designed to educate foreign students one from a ruptured spleen. wishing to gain athletic eligibility at a high school in the United States. Recognizing that the international student provides a very valuable asset to high school athletics, the brochure offers O At least four schools in the New suggestions for successfully obtaining and keeping athletic eligibility. It advises students to ask England Small College Athletic questions before taking part in any activity that may jeopardize eligibility. It also warns stu- Conference are adjusting their dents to be cautious of who they allow to help them in their attempt to play athletics, as some admissions policies away from ath- individuals are just trying to recruit players to a certain school. letics and back toward academics. Williams, Amherst and Wesleyan The brochure was developed by the NF International Student Task Force which was created in colleges have all agreed to cut the 2001 to address the growing concerns over the proliferation of international students coming number of "tips" -- or athletes into the U.S. to compete in high school athletics. The task force also amended an NFHS bylaw admitted despite sub-par academic that prohibited any member of a school's staff from serving as a host family for an international records -- in a single year to 66. student. A change was made to prohibit any member of the school's coaching staff, paid or vol- Bowdoin College also plans to untary, from acting as a host to a student. reduce athlete admissions, but has not provided a maximum number. The NF will work together with the Council for Standards on International Educational Travel While these schools offer high-level (CSIET) to promote the available information and resources to prospective athletes to help academic programs, their athletic eliminate eligibility conflicts. The brochure is available for download through the NF website teams are also competitive. The at http://www.nfhs.org/PDF/IntstudentbrochureR3.pdf. The brochures can also be purchased in adjustment is at least in part a packs of 50 for $7.50. April/May 2002 13 . . . more ciac news

GIRLS’ AND BOYS’ BASKETBALL COMMITTEES HOST AWARD CEREMONIES Each year the Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball Committees host an awards ceremony to honor individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their sport. This year the histories of ten exceptional individuals were celebrated during two separate awards cere- monies held at Memorial Hall at Central Connecticut State University.

Long-time coach Joan Sullivan accepts Merit Award. Ivan Wood presents Merit Award to Donald Panciera, who accepts on behalf of his late father, Tony Panciera. GIRLS’ BASKETBALL BOYS’ BASKETBALL 2002 Merit Award Recipients 2002 Merit Award Recipients

e Ms. Cyndie Adamski e e Mr. and Mrs. Frank Beneski e e Mr. Peter Shuler e e Mr. Nick Koules e e Ms. Joan Sullivan e e Mr. John McDonnell e e Mr. Charles Sharos e 200 Dedication Award e Mr. Donald Usher e

IVAN L. WOOD 2002 Dedication Award Consultant, CIAC Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball Committees ANTHONY S. PANCIERA CAS-CIAC Assistant Executive Director Emeritus

Editor’s Note: The following remarks things are possible. the memories they made will last them were given by Ralph White, assistant prin- for the rest of their lives. cipal of Parish Hill H.S. in Chaplin and We have been engaged in a great season chair of the CIAC Girls’ Basketball Com- ... testing whether those teams, or any It is for us, the spectators, to enjoy these mittee, at the conclusion of 2002 Dedica- teams so conceived and so dedicated ... final games played by those teams who, tion Ceremony on March 9th. can endure. We are met near the scene through a combination of skill, athletic of the final games of that season. talent, hard work, improvement, coach- In the past this is that time in the ing, and probably a little luck, have reception when Joe Guay would address We have come to celebrate a portion of passed through the crucible of the season “you. As I told the members of the girls' those teams as the survivors of those who to these games. Let us be highly resolved basketball committee at our first meeting gave their time, talent, and effort that to enjoy our final chance to watch girls' this year, succeeding to the chair in his their team might win. It is altogether fit- basketball games this season and take footsteps is a daunting task. I felt that I ting and proper that we should do this. continued devotion to the support of ath- should rise to that challenge in what I But in a larger sense we cannot limit our letics in the lives of girls growing up in said in this, my first address. So here Connecticut. goes. celebration to these games today. The 3,868 athletes who have worked hard all As was said four weeks ago in Salt Lake Four score and thirty days ago, 170 season have celebrated each accomplish - City, let the games begin. coaches brought forth on their own ment, major or minor, far above our courts a new team, conceived in hope power to add to their satisfaction. The -- Ralph White, Chair and dedicated to the proposition that all world will little note what I say here, but Girls’ Basketball” Committee 14 CAS Bulletin WINTER 2002 CIAC SPORTS CHAMPIONS

O BOYS BASKETBALL O GIRLS BASKETBALL Champion Runner-up Champion Runner-up Class LL: Weaver New Britain Class LL: NFA Trumbull Class L: Bloomfield Berlin Class L: Guilford Holy Cross Class M: N.W. Catholic Trinity Catholic Class M: East Catholic N.W. Catholic Class S : Rocky Hill Ellington Class S: Trinity Catholic Wamogo

O BOYS INDOOR TRACK Champion Runner-up Class L: Danbury Trumbull Class M: Staples Wilbur Cross Class S : Sheehan Old Saybrook

The triumphant NFA Wildcats revel in their Girls’ Basketball Class LL title.

O BOYS SWIMMING Champion Runner-up Weaver H.S. takes the title from defending Class Open: Notre Dame, W.H. Greenwich LL champs, New Britain H.S. Class LL: Greenwich Xavier Class L: Cheshire Notre Dame, W.H. Class M: New Canaan Wilton Class S: Brookfield Darien O ICE HOCKEY Champion Runner-up Div. I: Notre Dame, W.H. New Canaan Div. II: Ridgefield Milford Two wrestlers go head-to-head at the State O GIRLS GYMNASTICS Open in Glastonbury. Champion Runner-up N.E.: Pomperaug New Milford Class L: NFA Southington Class M: Pomperaug New Milford O WRESTLING Champion Runner-up Class S: Darien Daniel Hand Open: Danbury RHAM Class LL: Danbury Fairfield Class L: Fitch Berlin Class M: RHAM Killingly O CHEERLEADING Class S: Derby New London Champion Runner-up Coed: Wolcott East Windsor Class L: Danbury Bunnell O GIRLS INDOOR TRACK Class M: Holy Cross Lauralton Hall Champion Runner-up Class S: Ansonia Sacred Heart, Wtby Class L: Danbury Fitch Class M: Hillhouse New Canaan Class S: RHAM Suffield

Notre Dame-West Haven goalie Andrew Longueuil receives gold medal from CIAC Ice Hockey Chair Tom Neagle. April/May 2002 15 caad news

18TH ANNUAL CONVENTION A ROUSING SUCCESS! ADs Get Voting Privileges By Raymond DeAngelis, Emmett O’Brien RVTS, Ansonia on CIAC Sports Committees he 18th Annual Connecticut Association opportunity to attend one of three workshops. At its March meeting, the CIAC of Athletic Directors Conference was John Blomstrann spoke about recruiting and Board of Control voted unanimous- Theld at the Holiday Inn in Cromwell on orientating coaches, Joe Velardi discussed cop- March 21 and 22. Athletic directors had the ing with parents and the third talked about ly to grant full voting privileges to opportunity to attend workshops, visit vendors dealing with the media. athletic directors serving on all and hear the newly proposed changes to CIAC The annual awards banquet concluded the CIAC sports committees. This regulations. first day's activities. Robert "Jiggs" Cecchini move was a decisive vote of confi- The conference began on Thursday with received the award from outside the field of dence for the state’s ADs and was John Fontana, president of the CHSCA, urging athletic administration, Paula Fitzgerald for a clear reflection of the importance the ADs to have their coaches attend the inside the field of athletic administration, Ken of the role they play in the gover- National High School Coaches Convention in Marcuccio received the state NIAAA award Cromwell - June 23-29, 2002. Next Mike Sav- and Vin Iovino was the NCSSA award winner. nance of interscholastic athletics in age, executive director of CAS-CIAC, provid- On Friday, the CAAD breakfast meeting Connecticut. ed updates on current CIAC issues, gave the speakers were Karen Packtor, CAS-CIAC results of the out-of-season coaching survey Assistant Executive Director, and Matt Fischer, and then enlightened some AD's with his annu- the CIAC webmaster. Karen spoke enthusias- Retired ADs’ al quiz on student eligibility rules. tically about the on-line system of submitting Robert Lehr, outgoing president of CAAD CIAC forms and downloading all sport packets Corner from Southington High School, led a spirited effective Fall 2002. Matt navigated the ADs By Ed Tyburski discussion during the annual membership through the CIAC website. Training for AD meeting on the proposed changes to the out-of- secretaries will be offered by the CIAC. O READY TO RETIRE season coaching rule. Gary Makowicki gave The next session was the statewide faculty Athletic directors expecting to retire the group the position of the coaches associa- workshop to certify CAAD members to teach this school year are eligible to tion and Joe Tonelli spoke on behalf of the Module 3 of the CAAD coaching certification receive a permanent gold lifetime CAAD Executive Board. The AD's voted in course. John Novakowski, Pam Goodpaster CAAD membership card at no cost. favor of no change, but will support some and Fred Balsamo educated the group through movement on several items. Stay tuned! the informative training session. Fred also Retired teachers, principals, super- In the afternoon general session, spoke on the difference between a coaching intendents and other educational Cromwell resident, Bobby Valvano of ESPN permit vs teaching certification and which cer- administrators who once served as radio, and brother of the late Jimmy V., deliv- tification is needed by an AD if evaluating. athletic directors are also eligible if ered a strong message on "Finding Your Inspi- At the closing session and luncheon, ser- they meet certain requirements. ration." Valvano, a former basketball coach vice awards were presented to those AD's with himself, challenged ADs to have a deep pas- 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service. The next Qualifications are: sion in doing your job and to listen actively to CAAD general membership meeting will be on (1) Must be a member of CAAD those people who come into your office. His Wednesday, May 8, 2002 at upon retirement from education or humor was appreciated by all. Vazzy's Restaurant in Bridgeport at 8:00 a.m. have served as an AD before Later in the afternoon, the AD's had an CAAD was organized in 1978. (2) Must have served as AD in Connecticut for at least five years. NCAA Update (3) Must be planning to completely At its meeting on April 8-9, the NCAA Division I Management Council will consider a series of leg- retire from education, including islative proposals that would redefine amateurism rules for collegiate prospects. The group will also being a part-time AD. review, for the first time, a group of academic eligibility proposals that could change initial eligibility Currently there are 73 gold life and progress toward degree standards. members. Contact Ed Tyburski at Proposed changes to amateurism rules have been widely discussed for more than (860) 824-5754 for information. two years. One core group of proposals would permit pre-enrolled student-athletes to participate in certain activities associated with professional athletics before full-time collegiate O SPRING BREAKFAST enrollment without affecting eligibility. If approved, the recommendations would be forwarded to the MEETING Division I Board of Directors, which meets April 25. Specific proposals being considered would: All retired ADs will be invited to • allow prospective student-athletes to enter a professional draft and be drafted (99-107); the CAAD annual breakfast meet- • allow prospective student-athletes to sign a contract with a professional team (99-108); ing at no cost, to be held on • allow prospective student-athletes to compete on a professional team with Wednesday, May 8, at 8:00 a.m., at professionals (99-109); Vazzy's in Bridgeport. At that time • allow prospective student-athletes to accept prize money based on place finish eight retired ADs from the class of (99-110). An amendment to this proposal (99-110-2 ), would allow acceptance of prize 2001 will be presented with their money based on place finish in an open event that does not exceed the individual's gold cards. actual and necessary expenses; continued on following page 16 CAS Bulletin NCAA, continued from previous page Out-of-Season, continued from page 1 • allow prospective student-athletes to accept pay in any form for participation on an ath- 3. Member schools may allow the use of equip- letics team (99-111 ). Two amendments also have been introduced. One would prohibit ment that is deemed necessary for safety rea- acceptance of a salary if a prospect's high school sponsors the sport (99-111-2); the sons. However, the equipment may not identify the name or logo of the school. other would prohibit acceptance of money beyond actual and necessary expenses (99-111-3). 4. Out-of-season physical fitness programs may be Each of those proposals also has an amendment that would exclude men's and conducted for a select group of athletes. Mem- women's basketball for two years to study the impact of the changes in other sports. For ber schools must assure that students are not example, if these amendments were approved, men's and women's basketball prospective coerced to participate and that these programs student-athletes would not be permitted to sign a professional contract before enrollment. do not hinder or interrupt any of the students In addition to proposals regarding amateurism, proposals that would change initial-eligi- other educational, athletic, or family commit- bility standards and progress toward degree requirements will be before the Management ments. These programs must be school-spon- Council for initial consideration. The Division I Board of Directors requested in 1999 that Divi- sored and under the direct supervision of the sion I members consider alternate eligibility standards that would maximize graduation rates school. and minimize adverse impact on minority groups. For additional information on proposed 5. A member school coach may coach a non- changes regarding initial-eligibility standards, visit the NCAA website, click on "News and school team provided there are no more than the Publications" and look in "Recent Releases" for "Amateurism, Initial Eligibility and Academic following number of his/her member school Progress Legislation, on Management Council Agenda, 4/5/2002" athletes participating on the team: (a) for a team composition of five or six players, three of Cingular, continued from page 1 his/her athletes are allowed; (b) for a team com- Renstrom said that 31 percent of teenagers today already have wireless phones and the number position of nine players, five are allowed; and ( is only expected to rise. With increasing amounts of disposable income, teenagers are also c) for a team composition of 11 players, six are among their top buyers of data products, downloadable games and customized ringtones. Cin- allowed. (NOTE: Previously, a member school gular is aware, however, that although this increased customer base is favorable, the nature of coach was not permitted to coach a non-school these particular customers also bears an important corporate responsibility. team comprised of more than three of his/her As a part of its safety and courtesy public service campaign called Be Sensible, Cingular member school athletes.) has created Be Sensible: Don't drive yourself to distraction, a program specifically aimed at teenage drivers. The goal of the campaign is to educate teens about safe and responsible dri- The above changes were supported by the ving and encourages new drivers to stay off their phones while behind the wheel. In coopera- superintendents (CAPSS) as well as the athletic tion with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as well as other reputable orga- directors (CAAD). nizations, Cingular has developed a free curriculum kit for teachers called, Be Sensible: Don't The Out-of-Season Regulation is a CIAC drive yourself to distraction. The kit includes a 9-minute video, an educator's guide, an in- By-Law (Article XII) and, as such, necessitates a classroom poster and suggested classroom activities. The materials can be delivered, free of vote of the CIAC membership at the annual charge, by Cingular Wireless through the Video Placement Worldwide website, meeting. The new regulation, if approved by the www.vpw.com. membership, will go into effect beginning in the Cingular Wireless is the second largest carrier in the U.S. and is dedicated to self-expres- sion and customer-friendly service. Cingular’s Connecticut regional office is in Rocky Hill. summer of 2002.

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