Afton Central School Newsletter

www.afton.stier.org M.Masse

Volume 18, Number II July 2010

News from the Superintendent Dear District Residents: Congratulations to Henry Bostelman for his election to I would like to take a moment to congratulate all of our the Board of Education. Henry joined the Board at their seniors! We are very proud of them and wish them well in re-organizational meeting on July 7. all of their future endeavors. We end the 2009-2010 school year by celebrating the We also would like to wish our retirees the best in the achievements of our students in many fields of endeavor. future. Alice Burnett is retiring after working in the District We have observed high academic performances, special for 30-years as the nurse practitioner. Alice has been a talents and numerous personal triumphs this year! All of fixture at Afton, attending games, advising classes, etc. these things make our work worthwhile! She will be sorely missed! Gary Gardner is also retir- As we head into the slower pace of summer and time ing from the transportation department after 19 years, outdoors, please take a moment to relax and enjoy time 16 as the Head of Transportation. Their hard work and with family and friends, dedication to Afton Central School will be greatly missed! —Elizabeth Briggs, Superintendent of Schools Congratulations again Alice and Gary! Our Girls’ Softball team made it into the NYS tour- nament this year after winning the Section IV title for Valedictorian and the 16th straight year, a phenomenal accomplishment! Andy Sanford participated in the State track meet. Salutatorian Announced Isamarie Ramos and Nikiah Gaydorus were alternates Dan Clark, son of Daniel and for the meet. The District is extremely proud of their Julie Clark of Coventry, has achieved accomplishments this spring. the academic honor of Valedictorian. The plans for the EXCEL maintenance project have He has maintained a seven-semester been sent to the NYS Education Department for approval. grade point average of 96.71%. We are projecting a start date for spring of 2011. A list of Although academics have always the items to be addressed in the project is in my office. come first, Dan has made a constant If you have any questions or have an interest in reviewing effort to become involved in ACS, as well as the sur- them, please come in and we’ll go over the plans with you rounding communities. Since he was a freshman, he and answer any questions you may have. has been involved in every club available at Afton A big thank you to all of the District residents for their Central School, except FFA. In his Senior and Junior support of the annual budget vote. Your support helps us Years, he has assumed leadership roles in each of maintain our programs and continue to improve the instruc- these clubs. In the majority of these clubs, he is the tion we provide for our children. I am extremely proud of Treasurer. The District Office clerks have come to our staff, our students and our community! know him well. This has been an extremely difficult budget year and Dan has always been a firm supporter of the Music next year is projected to be even more challenging. I would Department. He participates in both Advanced Band like to ask for volunteers to serve on a year long committee as lead trumpet, and Advanced Chorus as President, to work with us on the budget and to try to help us find and ACCENT (a select choral group at Afton.) He is new ways to save money while continuing to offer quality extremely grateful to have the opportunity to learn programs for our students. If you are interested in serving (continued on the next page) on this committee, please call me at 639-8229. about something as fun and intriguing as music. Rebecca Baudendistel, daughter of Raini Dan has also enjoyed developing an on-air Baudendistel of Afton, is the Salutatorian personality at WACS-TV, the school’s cable news with a seven-semester grade point average program. He now intends to pursue journalism, of 96.07%. specifically broadcast, because of his ambitious While being successful with academics, desire to change the world we live in. Becca has also excelled in other aspects of Outside of school, Dan frequently partici- school. Becca has been the President of the pates in a guilty pleasure of his, musical theatre. Class of 2010 since the 6th grade. She is a member of Student Afton Community Theatre and the Out of the Government, National Honor Society, ACS Yearbook staff, Woodwork Players have graciously taken him LEYP (League of Extraordinary Young People), as well as among their ranks, and he could not be more the Afton Mock Trial team, where this year she helped the grateful for the experience he has had with members of the team achieve their goal of becoming the 2010 everyone involved! Chenango County Champions. The amount of time spent at the Dan now writes a monthly column, titled school after hours for these activities is so extensive, in fact, Teenhood Today for The Daily Star, a regional that some even joke about her being on the payroll. newspaper based in Oneonta. He enjoys every In addition to that, she has been a member of the Advanced article he writes, and is glad to be stepping into Band and Jazz Band for four years, and has held the position the journalism world at such a young age. of Band Treasurer. In the athletic department, she has partici- He would like to thank all of the teachers for pated in JV and Varsity Basketball, earning the title of Scholar shaping him into the very person he has become Athlete in 2009, and is currently the manager for the Boys’ in 13 years at ACS. He would like them to know Varsity Baseball Team. how much of an impact each and every one of Becca was also the first female to become a member of them makes every day. the Boys’ Soccer program at Afton. She participated on He plans to attend The University of Missouri JV for two years, being a co-captain for one of the years, because of their acclaimed journalism program. and was a member of the Varsity team for two years. His other choices include SUNY Albany and the This is one of the experiences from her high school career College of Saint Rose. that she will treasure most. She would like to thank everyone As for advice to underclassmen, and everyone involved in making that experience possible, because without in general, Dan sends a clear message, “When life the support of many, she would have missed out on something gives you lemons, don’t make lemonade. That’s a she truly loved to do. one-time deal. Take that lemon, plant a lemon tree Afton Central School has given Becca various recogni- and you’ll soon enjoy the fruits of life!” tions for her achievements. Becca received the November Senior of the Month award by Afton’s faculty and staff for her citizenship. She was also nominated and sponsored by her school to attend the National Student Leadership Conference Published three times a year by in Washington, D.C. Afton Central School, Afton, New York 13730 Becca would like to thank everyone at the school for making 607-639-8229 it such a great place to go every day. She would especially like to thank the teachers who pushed her and helped make Board of Education Margery Secrest her who she is today. Whether they believe it or not, they are Vanessa Warren very much appreciated for all that they do and the differences Henrty Bostelman they make every day. John Masse When it comes to advice to underclassmen, Becca’s words Richard Rogler of wisdom are as follows, “Number one—be funny, be wacky, Administration be different and just be you, because life’s too short to be cool. Elizabeth Briggs, Superintendent of Schools And number two—always take the road less traveled by, it Kimberly Werth, Elementary Principal really does make all the difference.” David Glover, Secondary Principal Becca’s future plans include attending Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, and earning a degree June White, Editor in Political Science to eventually work for FEMA and the Typeset and Printed by DCMO BOCES Printing Service Department of Homeland Security.

2 Main Street Grill and Bakery Stevens Attends HOBY Hosts Healthy Living Students Inspiring, educational, compassionate, energizing, Students once again had the unique opportunity to spend enthusiastic, motivating, their class time at the Main Street Grill and Bakery, hosted by transforming, long-lasting, Executive Chef and Owner Liz Dawson. Students learned healthy and life-changing . . . these eating strategies and were given the chance to do hands-on are some of the words that education. As part of their final project, students were offered students, schools, parents, the choice of making a special dish or designing/making their alumni, volunteers and sup- own six inch cake. Projects were as follows: porters use to describe Hugh Vanessa Armetta—Heart decorated cake for someone special O’Brian Youth Leadership Hannah Beames—Fox logo cake (HOBY). Brian Behorey—One-of-a-kind omelet Founded in 1958, HOBY’s Trysten Butts—Monster logo cake mission is to inspire and Aaron Cirigliano—Piggie in the Mud cake develop our global community of youth and volunteers Sarah Cunningham—Blue Elephant specialty cake to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. Ilona Gorton—Chicken wraps to-die-for HOBY programs are conducted annually throughout Jeff Gurnee—Chicken wraps to-die-for the United States, serving local and international high Brittany Hunt—Classy Ribbon cake school students. Scott Jaindl—Melt-in-your-Mouth chocolate cheesecake HOBY programs provide youth selected by their Trevor Lauritsen—Enjoi Panda logo cake schools to participate in unique leadership training, Lance McAdams—Chicken wraps to-die-for service-learning and motivation-building experiences. Stacey Rinker—One-of-a-Kind guitar cake Each year high schools are encouraged to select one Bryant Williams—Melt-in-your-Mouth chocolate cheesecake sophmore to attend the locally sponsored HOBY event. A big thank you to Mrs. Dawson for all of the preparation This year Brandon Stevens was selected to attend and time given to our students. This is a large commitment for the event at SUNY Oswego, June 4-6. Here are some The Grill, and our students are fortunate to have this special thoughts that Brandon shared when he returned from opportunity! —Ms. Jessica Wheeler his time at HOBY, “I learned more about being a leader in one weekend than I have my entire life! HOBY has inspired me to make a difference in Afton and the other communities around. I want to give back to the community and help in any way I can. Whatever it takes, I am willing to step up and make a difference in people’s lives. I want to leave a positive impact on those that I come across in this life. HOBY was a big force that made me want to do this. If you are invited to go to HOBY, go!” Congratulations, Brandon, on being this year’s nominee to attend HOBY. Band Performs at Foster Park —Mrs. Deborah Samuel Afton Central School Band, under the direction of Chris Luttinger, played at Foster Park during the Memorial Day program. Important Notice Sports Physicals As of July 26, it will be the family’s responsibility to schedule a physical outside of school in order for their child to participate in sports.

3 Costa Rican Students Vocalists Perform at NYSSMA Draw Mural at ACS Afton vocalists went to Norwich on Friday, May 21, to perform NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) solos for evaluation by certified judges. Mrs. Westover provided the accompaniment on the piano for the soloists. The songs were selected from the NYSSMA manual, which includes songs graded on a scale from one to six, with six being college level music, the most diffi- cult music. Each student was scored in several categories including: tone, intonation, technique, diction, accuracy, interpretation and basic proficiency in sight reading. Mrs. Westover congratulates all the students who spent their own time preparing their songs to perform for adjudica- tion. The entire process is challenging and requires self- confidence and courage. Each singer is scored individually and gets only once chance to show their abilities. At the end, the singer receives a score sheet with both a numerical score and a comment section. The comments are there to allow the student to improve upon their singing skills using This past winter the visiting students from Costa Rica the suggestions given by the adjudicators. Levels 1-4 are responded to Mr. DeVona’s invitation to create a hallway scored on a 28 point scale while Levels 5 and 6 are scored mural by designing and painting a beauty in just three days! on a 100 point scale. The seven by nine foot mural in the library hallway features wildlife native to Costa Rica, as well as a map and results of the 2010 evaluations: flag of the country. Grade 6 “They really showed great teamwork, creativity and Leslie Tallmadge, Level 3—25 points, Excellent; attention to detail,” Mr. DeVona said. Grade 8 —Mr. Dan DeVona Tessa Cutting, Level 4—20 points, Good rating; Grade 9 Maria Andrews, Level 5—91 points (A-), Gold; Teachers’ Association Grade 10 Sarah Erckert, Level 4—24 points, Excellent; Holds Food Drive Annette Vernon, Level 6 All-State—85 points (B), Silver; The Teachers’ Association sponsored a food drive to ben- Brandon Stevens, Level 6 All-State—90 points (A-), Gold; efit the Afton Food Pantry in June. Weis Markets donated Alexa Alfonsi, Level 6 All-State—96 points (A), Gold; the paper bags used in the collection. There were two win- Grade 11 ning classrooms in the elementary school. Mr. Ludwig and Jeffrey Smith, Level 6 All-State—90 points (A-), Gold; Mrs. Krom’s classes each brought in 44 items. Mrs. Covey’s Ashley Curtis, Level 6 All-State—97 points (A+), Gold homeroom won in the middle school. In the high school, Mrs. Westover is encouraged that so many of the Afton Mrs. Page’s Adult’s Connecting with Kids mentoring group singers were willing to take on this challenge to improve brought in 60 items. The ATA gave snack vouchers for the themselves and encourages young singers to join in next cafeteria to every student in the winning groups. year for the NYSSMA festival. Ed Hromada at the Food Pantry was very appreciative of —Mrs. Michal Westover the 30 bags and boxes that were delivered. The Food Pantry serves an average of 64 families each month, supplying 22,095 meals each year. —Ms. Kristy McElhinny ◄ Ilona Gorton (9th) unpacking bags at the food pantry.

4 On Our Own Time Senior Class Trip As part of a continuing The Class of 2010 recently enjoyed their senior trip to series entitled On Our Own Cleveland, Ohio. The weekend started on May 21, when Time, the High School the class left from the school at 7:00 a.m. on a six hour bus Library hosted a week of ride. Once arriving in Cleveland, they started their weekend lunchtime student musical with a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They then performances during the moved on to finish off their Friday by catching a Cleveland week of May 10. Indians baseball game. Performers included: Saturday morning they got up early, enjoyed a hotel Performers Nate Cutting Jose Gonzalez, Dan Clark, breakfast, and were off to Cedar Point Amusement Park in and Travis Ketzak Kaylee Beers, Erin Daly, Sandusky. After spending the day riding roller coasters, Kurt Rogler, Rebecca Baudendistel, Mariah Mohr, Clayton they headed back to the hotel to prepare for their dinner/ Andrews, Nate Cutting, Travis Ketzak, and an ensemble dance cruise. The night was spent aboard the Nautica from the Advanced Chorus production of Jersey Boys. Queen, eating and dancing with the Cleveland skyline on On Our Own Time highlights student involvement in the one side and a beautiful sunset on the other. arts pursued outside of their course work. It recognizes the Sunday started out with a trip to the Great Lakes Science effort they have put into their personal enrichment, and it Center. Class members were pleasantly surprised with the demonstrates to other students the benefit of that effort to amount of learning and fun that occurred. The final stop the whole community. on the trip was lunch at the Hard Rock Café, followed by Mr. DeVona especially thanks the students in his high another long, but fun, bus ride home. school mentoring group for inspiring this idea and encour- All in all the senior class had a great time and made great aging it to happen. memories. The class would like to thank the chaperones ­­—Mr. Dan DeVona Ms. Burnett and Ms. Bostelman for making our trip fun, the school administration for allowing us to go on the trip, and most of all their advisors, Mr. Pratt and Mr. Dancesia for all of their hard work to make the trip possible. The entire weekend was a good time had by all, and was definitely a great last celebration as a class. —Mr. Roy Pratt

Performers Kurt Rogler, Kaylee Beers, Erin Daly, Dan Clark and Rebecca Baudendistel

Biology Class Plants Trees This spring, Ms. McElhinny’s Biology class planted white pine trees that Mrs. Gregory received as dona- tions to the school. The students took shovels and Class of 2010 posing on dock before pickaxes and planted the trees along the path next to embarking on the Nautica Queen Bump’s Creek. Hopefully these students will be able to return to this place in the future to find beautiful conifers converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. —Ms. Kristy McElhinny

Back row: Bridget Jenson, Shanalin Heath, Christina Harvey, Cipriana Maniscalco, Chas Schuart, Jerry Kershaw, Alex Regenbogen, Jake Conklin, Daulton Palmatier; middle: Harley Jennings; front: Rick Parsons, Cameron Oswald, Michaela Davy

5 Seniors of the Month Students Unmask the Night Each month, the faculty and staff at Afton Central for Junior Prom 2010 School recognize one senior for exhibiting a particular On Saturday, May 29, Afton’s Junior Prom was held at character trait. The winning senior receives a certificate The Silo Restaurant in Greene. The masquerade-themed and a free lunch at the Main Street Grill and Bakery. prom began with a delicious buffet dinner, including a Congratulations to all of the Seniors of the Month for the delectable dessert buffet served in the chicly decorated 2009-2010 school year! —Mrs. Jilene Nordberg banquet room. Photographer Jim Pavlik was also on hand to photograph the gorgeous couples against an enormous January February masquerade mask generously created by Mr. Higby. Dependability Integrity After dinner, parents arrived to watch the prom court coronation. Congratulations to Nicole Golden-Thomas, Cassie Prezorski, Stacey Guokas, Sayde Gaydorus, Phil Bradtke, Brandon Beers, Jake Vernon and Michael Sprague for being voted on to prom court. The moment everyone was waiting for led to the announcement of Prom King and Queen: Corey Mohrien and Chasity Eckert. Congratulations to both Corey and Chasity! Then the dancing finally began with DJ Louie G. from Wild 104 spinning the tunes. The students, decked out in tuxedos and gowns, danced their way into the night and Travis Ketzak and Chris Anthony and had a fantastic time with their friends! Principal Glover Principal Glover The junior class officers worked very hard to create a beautiful prom experience, and they would like to thank March April everyone who helped them make Prom 2010 a success, Generosity Respectfulness including Gary and the amazingly efficient staff at The Silo, Jim Pavlik Photography, DJ Louie G., Stacey Webb’s decorations, Mrs. Gaydorus and our amazing chaperones. —Mrs. Sarah DeLarco, Junior Class Advisor

Dan Sandoli and Kurt Rogler and Principal Glover Principal Glover

May June Leadership Perseverance King Corey Mohrien and Queen Chasity Eckert

Nate Cutting and Nicole Mulieri and Principal Glover Principal Glover

6 After Prom Party 2010 Mock Trial Team Nearly half of the prom attendees also attended the Completes Stellar Year SADD sponsored after prom party held this year at the high The Mock Trial team completed another stellar year school. The after prom partiers were kept active and busy in 2010. Led by a group of seniors, the team started the with a 40-foot bounce obstacle course, a myriad of Wii™ season off well and finished the regular season without a and board games, karaoke, pool activities and much more! loss. We entered the playoff round as the first seed, and the Samantha Griffith danced into the wee hours of the team fought hard to advance to the County Finals against morning on Just Dance for the Wii™, Dan Clark provided Sherburne-Earlville. In the final trial, Afton’s Plaintiff piano music for a short display of goofy interpretive team beat Sherburne-Earlville to become the Chenango dance and Mike Sprague tackled the bounce house like a County Champions for the third time in the last five years. champion. To beat the 3:00 a.m. blues, the partiers Afton moved on to the Regional Tournament where the engaged in a hard-core game of pillow polo that floored current team advanced farther than any other team in Afton Ms. Nutting and brought out Mrs. Sanford’s competitive history, only losing in the semi-final round. edge. However, the highlight of the night was the food! The students who participated this year include Tiffany Mrs. Secrest generously baked the most delicious home- Carr, Kateryna Santa Cruz and Rebekah Prezorski. made breads, brownies and cookies for us to enjoy at the Competing for the prosecution were Rebecca Baudendistel, party. Not a crumb was left behind! who delivered an opening statement; Annette Vernon, The night ended with prizes to reward the kids who with the role of an attorney; Chelsey Boudreau as Pat made a safe choice on prom night. Thanks to Little Venice Nolan; Jessica Wenner as Fran Ascott; Jessica Winans Restaurant in Binghamton, The Silo Restaurant in Greene, as Sheridan Holmes; and Nicole Mulieri, who gave the Suzy Q Ice Cream in Binghamton, Wal★Mart® in Vestal, closing argument. Belden Hill Golf Course in Harpursville and Mr. Rogler Competing as Afton’s Defense team were Erin Daly, for the generous prize donations! SADD would also like who delivered an opening statement; Suzana Seral, with to thank Mrs. Secrest, Mrs. Rogler and Nate Cutting the role of an attorney; Alexa Alfonsi as Shawn Miller; for the food donation; Kurt Rogler for the set up help; Caterina Politano as Ryan Williams; Jennifer Viviano Brian Ferrara for his custodial services; Cathy Decker for as Mickey Pennman; and Dan Clark who gave a closing lifeguarding; the chaperones for staying up all night; and argument. Sarah Erckert was responsible for the magic everyone else who helped make after prom a success! box throughout our competitions. After the dust cleared on SADD is already looking ahead to After Prom 2011, and the season, Annette Vernon was voted Most Improved and we are seeking the help of parents and community members. Jess Wenner was selected as the Best Rookie. Dan Clark If you are interested in joining the After Prom Committee, was voted the Most Valuable to the Defense and Nicole please contact Sarah DeLarco at [email protected] or Mulieri was voted the Most Valuable to the Prosecution. at 607-639-8200. Both Mr. Garlitz and Mr. Dancesia would like to thank all —Sarah DeLarco, SADD Advisor who participated this year. This year, by far, has been one of the best and most fun we have ever had. Thank you all. —Mr. Garlitk

Front row: Erin Daly, Nicole Mulieri, Jessie Winans, Rebecca Baudendistel, Dan Clark; middle: Annette Vernon, Suzana Sera, Jessica Wenner, Sarah Erckert, Jennifer Viviano; back: Tiffany Carr, Kateryna Santa Cruz, Chelsey Boudreau

7 2010 Senior Plans Clayton Andrews...... Rochester Institute of Technology Christopher Anthony...... Rutgers University Vanessa Armetta...... Herkimer County Community College Corey Ball...... SUNY Morrisville Rebecca Baudendistel...... Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island Kaylee Beers...... Broome Community College Paul Birdsall...... Undecided Hannah Bradley...... Undecided Melinda Bradtke...... SUNY Oswego Kevin Bullis...... Broome Community College Kasey Burkhardt...... Undecided Luis Calandrino...... Undecided Patrick Chandler...... SUNY Delhi Daniel Clark...... University of Missouri, SUNY Albany, or the College of Saint Rose Danielle Collins...... Undecided Nathan Cutting...... State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry Erin Daly...... Russell Sage College Crystal Decker...... Undecided Robert Erickson...... Utica Institute of Technology Jose Gonzalez...... Undecided Jonathan Grant...... Undecided Paul Hamilton...... Broome Community College Brittany Hunt...... Undecided Jared Iaia...... University of Northwestern Ohio Dawn Istvan...... Undecided Dylan Kershaw...... Undecided Travis Ketzak...... Broome Community College Jamie Kratz...... Morrisville State College: Norwich Campus Dylan Latham...... Broome Community College Jamie Lewis...... Lincoln Culinary Institute Michael Lutz...... Broome Community College Lani McAdams...... Undecided Mariah Mohr...... Broome Community College Jennifer Monroe...... Broome Community College Nicole Mulieri...... Broome Community College Michael Muller...... Broome Community College Christopher Nichols...... Broome Community College, Morrisville State College or Davis College Dario Ochoa...... Undecided Stephanie Parsons...... Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) Nicholas Passeggio III...... Lincoln College of New England Caterina Politano...... SUNY Delhi, Johnson and Wales, or the Culinary Institute of Technology Samuel Reynolds...... Undecided Shakira Reynolds...... Wells College Stacey Rinker...... Herkimer County Community College Kurt Rogler...... Syracuse University Adam Rupakus...... Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) Daniel Sandoli...... Broome Community College Shane Schneidau...... Morrisville State College Stephanie Sherman...... Broome Community College Gustavo Vieira...... Undecided Corey Westfall...... University of Vermont Dylan Wilson...... Broome Community College Jessica Winans...... Coastal Carolina

8 Art Students Celebrated in 2010 Congressional Town Hall Gallery Art Show Artistic Discovery Competition An opening reception for area student artists was held February 26-March 18, the Chenango County Council on Saturday, March 27, at the Jericho Gallery in the Town of the Arts in Norwich held its annual Congressional Art Hall in Bainbridge. Students representing five school show Artistic Discovery. This is an annual competition for districts had their work on display in the Gallery from Chenango County high school art students and is sponsored March 27-April 1. The Fourth Annual Student Art Show was by Congressman Michael J. Arcuri. This year, there were the result of an ongoing collaboration between the Jericho six talented students from Afton Central School who had Arts Council and the Afton, Sidney, Bainbridge-Guilford, work on display. The students representing Afton were, Unadilla Valley and Unatego School Districts. Kurt Rogler, Mariah Mohr, Dylan Kershaw, Jessica The 50 works on display demonstrated remarkable Wenner, Alex Tiley and Caitlyn Tallmadge. Jessica student ability in a variety of media, including ceramics, Wenner received an honorable mention for her painting photography, charcoal, oil and acrylic paint, and pencil. Glowing Orbs. Mariah Mohr took home a second place This year, the two selected students from Afton were Kurt award for her mixed media piece A Colorful Nightmare. Rogler and Mariah Mohr. Kurt and Mariah were selected Congratulations to all the participating Afton Art students. to represent Afton Central School for their outstanding achievement in the visual arts. —Mr. Scott Higby

Jessica Wenner’s “Glowing Orbs”

Kurt Rogler with his work, “A Tribute to Pollock”

Mariah Mohr’s “A Colorful Nightmare”

Mariah Mohr with her work, “A Colorful Nightmare” Congratulations! 9 Students Visit Students Receive 4th Annual Accident Exhibit Marge Maguire Prize Award On May 26, the Guidance Office arranged for On Wednesday, June 2, Pam Ross, current chairperson of the Afton’s 11th and 12th grade classes to go to Norwich Afton Art League, presented the fourth annual Marge Maguire to see an exhibit sponsored by the Chenango County Prize for artistic potential and achievement to three art students. Council of the Arts. The exhibit, Friends—One Senior Mariah Mohr, Junior Jessica Wenner and Sophmore Day—One Wrong Turn, examined the tragic drunk William Kershaw were the three recipients of the award. driving accident that claimed four lives at Colgate Art Teacher Scott Higby and the Afton Art League Committee University during November 2001. were honored to have had the privilege of choosing these three Students walked through a display that examined students from the wealth of artistic talent at Afton Central School. the lives of the four teens killed in the accident Congratulations to all three students. through pictures, personal belongings, and quotes —Mr. Scott Higby from friends and family. Students also wit- nessed photographs of the accident scene and learned about the consequences of drunk driving. After going through the exhibit, students watched a documentary that further explained the tragic event. Chris Nichols, a member of the senior class, said, “It was heartbreaking to see what the families of the kids who had died went through.” We hope that the students walked away from the experience with the knowledge that their choices in life have an enor- Mariah Mohr William Kershaw Jessica Wenner mous effect on those who love and care about them. —Mrs. Sarah DeLarco, SADD Advisor Sixth Graders Attend Sciencenter The sixth grade class went on trip to the Sciencenter in Ithaca. National Honor Society The class members were able to actively participate in many On June 21, eight high school students were hands-on activities. The class was divided into small groups with inducted into the National Honor Society. an Afton School chaperone so that students could enjoy activities. They were Melinda Bradtke, Erin Daly, Jamie A special thank you to chaperones Dan DeVona, Jennifer Kratz, Chasity Eckert, Sayde Gaydorus, Nicole DeYoung, Marjorie Erckert, Vicky Gregory, Pamela Haynes, Brian Golden-Thomas, Corey Mohrien and Suzana Pearsall, Donna Scuorzo and Yvonne Swislosky for providing the Sera. Students who meet the criteria of a cumula- opportunity for students to learn. tive average of 87.5 or higher since the start of high —Mrs. Vicky Gregory school are then rated by the faculty for leadership and character. Students are also asked to fill out a form which highlights their service, leadership and scholarship. Eligible students are then chosen by a faculty council of five who rate them on character, service, leadership and scholarship. Once the students are members, they are required to complete 10 hours of community service per semester and take part in the club’s projects. Group projects have included hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive and selling shamrocks for Muscular Dystrophy. Individual projects include volunteer- ing time at local animal shelters, fire stations and food banks. Members also help in the elementary classroom, work on the yearbook, help collect for Casual for a Cause, and help tutor other students. —Mrs. Bridget Davis

10 Middle School Spelling Bee Champion Sertoma Essay Tyler Burns was crowned the winner of the ACS Middle Contest Winners School Spelling Bee competition after spelling the final The Sertoma Club held their Awards and word: monarch! Tyler is a 7th grader who out-spelled all Recognitions Dessert and 50th Birthday Party on the other students at Afton Central School to be our repre- April 27, in the Afton Central School Cafeteria. sentative at the Regional Scripps-Howard National Spelling At the dessert night, three Afton and three Bee at SUNY Oneonta on March 6. Tyler finished in the Harpursville seventh graders were recognized for top 10 out of 26 students from other schools in the region. their excellent essays on volunteerism. Sertoman He spelled his way through three rounds before being Helen Kittle remarked on how difficult it was for eliminated. Clapboard (pronounced Clabbard) was the word the group of judges to select the three winners out of that stumped Tyler. His parents and teachers were all very the ten essays that had been forwarded to the Club as proud of his finish, and he vows to do even better next year. first round winners. —Steve Oakley Adrianna Marrongelli read her third place essay on Locks of Love and the important role this group plays in the lives of children suffering from hair loss. She urged the audience to follow her lead and donate hair to restore the dignity of the young victims suffering hair loss. Addie Shapley read her second place essay on the Importance of Volunteer Fire Departments. She reminded the audience of how frightening it is to be the member of a firefighter’s Tyler Burns, Class of 2015, accepts the ACS Spelling Bee family, always wondering if he or she would get Championship Trophy from Mr. Oakley hurt saving someone else. Victoria Lent wrote her first place essay on The American Red Cross. She reminded the audience of the important role the Red Cross played during the flood that hit in 2006. Sixth Graders Read Trilogy Each of the winners won a savings bond for their Anthony Caezza and John Corey were so excited about winning essay. Helen Kittle remarked that while the book they read in 6th grade that they read the entire these three writers were winners, the Club was also trilogy! Seventeen of their classmates agreed and read the a winner from having heard the important message books as well. That is when Anthony and John decided to contained in each essay. write to Andy Griffiths, the #1 children’s author in Australia. —Mrs. Cindy Covey They wanted to ask him if he was going to add a fourth book to the series. Anthony and John felt the author ended the third book with a clue for a fourth, but sadly, Mr. Griffiths said this was the end of the saga. They are all anticipating another book by Andy Griffiths in the near future. —Mrs. Lu Dwyer

Sertoma President Skip Pickwick, Victoria Lent, Anthony Caezza and John Corey holding original Adrianna Marrongelli, Addie Shapley from postcards handwritten by Mr. Griffiths and sent Afton Central School and Amanda Rhodes, to them from Australia! Also pictured is the letter Rachel Ballard, Shannon Winsor from they wrote to Mr. Griffiths. We want to thank Harpursville Central School Andy for making us laugh aloud while learning!

11 DCMO BOCES Media Festival Students Read 100+ Books Several 7th grade students chose to take part in the DCMO Reilly Lockwood (left) and BOCES Media Festival. They submitted podcasts of radio Carlee Humphrey (right), broadcasts that they had written, performed and edited. second grade students in Mr. The entire project was part of their drama unit. They were ful- Ludwig’s class, show two of filling a class requirement for Mrs. Covey’s Grade 7 ELA class the books they read this school and received technical assistance from Mr. DeVona. year. Each girl read well over There was a tie for third with the radio shows George Bush, 100 books by year’s end. and Crocs. George Bush was written, acted and edited by —Ms. Leslie McGraw Victoria Lent, Sabrina Button and Julia Knapp. Crocs was written, performed and edited by Ellie Mertz, Rebecca Haynes and Tanya Hatton. In second place was the one man radio show Bird Watchers Club Action News on WACS, written, performed and edited solely by The Bird Watchers Club, a part of Mrs. Covey’s Oliver Mohr. In first place was the radio play Ninja Town by Afterschool Writing Club, took part in a contest entitled Samantha Rogalski, Brenna Caiati and Victoria Lent. Home Tweet Home. They were required to research and —Mrs. Cindy Covey write a proposal detailing how they would help birds on Afton School property. They were competing with students from around the area for one of six grants each worth $100, to be applied towards the cost of constructing birdhouses. Cody Rowe, Josh McAvoy, Charlie Bishop, Darien Heath and Matt Luyster spent two hours after school per week for three weeks researching and then writing Victoria Lent, Brenna Caiati, Samantha Rogalski their proposal. They were required to find out the spe- (1st place with Ninja Town) cies of birds common to our area, their unique nesting requirements and habitat requirements. They found directions to make the nesting boxes that would fulfill the birds’ nesting requirements, and devised a way to Oliver Mohr (2nd place deter predators. They then needed to find places to with Action News on WACS) put their birdhouses that would meet all the nesting requirements for the individual species of birds. They took pictures, described how they would construct and display their birdhouses and submitted their proposal to WSKG Public Broadcasting Company. On March 16, they were informed that they were winners. On March 23, they went to the Home Tweet Home Awards ceremony held at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca. They were presented with their $100 for building supplies and loaned a camera to Victoria Lent, Julia Knapp and Sabrina Button document bird activity. (3rd place with George Bush—tie) —Mrs. Cindy Covey Tanya Hatton, Rebecca Haynes, Mr. Rutan (BOCES),

Ellie Mertz (3rd place with Crocs—tie) Charlie Bishop, Matt Luyster, Darien Heath, Josh McAvoy and Cody Rowe

12 Sixth Grade Social Studies We started the second half of the school year with a unit After the Middle Ages, we learned about the Italian on India and Persia. Students learned about the highest Renaissance. It was a time of rebirth for Europe. We learned mountain range in the world, the Himalayas. They learned about the invention of the printing press and the telescope about the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, and how these inventions, along with many others, affect us standing 29,035 feet tall. We also studied how the Persian today. Students also learned about scientists like Copernicus Empire was built. Next, we studied China. This country has and Galileo and artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and been ruled by dynasties for years. We learned about a cruel Michelangelo. Of course, you must know that the most ruler named Shi Huangdi who united China and built the famous picture in the world was painted during this time Great Wall. We learned about the clay soldiers that protected period, the Mona Lisa. Shi Huangdi’s tomb after his death. Students made zodiac Last year I applied for a Chenango County Council spinners, red money envelopes and tan grams to celebrate of the Arts Grant and was awarded a check for $260. the Chinese New Year. This is the year 4707 in China. Funds for the grant were made possible through the Arts After China, we studied Greece and Rome. Some of the Council, Wilbur Bank, and the P&G Fund of the Greater topics the sixth graders learned about were the origins of Cincinnati Foundation. I was in need of a bit more money to the Olympic Games, gods and goddesses, the geography of get all the supplies needed for the project, and Afton Central Greece, and how myths developed. Students learned how School contributed the rest of the necessary money. I used Rome was founded, Roman government, and the many the grant monies to incorporate a stained glass window proj- Roman concepts that are in our current government. ect made out of paper products into my Italian Renaissance Next, we learned about the European Middle Ages. unit. Students studied examples of stained glass windows Students picked a topic from this period and made a project and then created their own designs. Students then cut out based on what they learned. One of the highlights from their designs using the materials that the money from the this unit was our annual visit from Sir William. William grant provided. We have since hung our windows and they McManus is a local Afton resident who has come to my sixth have provided us with much enjoyment. Thank you once grade classroom for eleven years to share his knowledge, again to all who helped make this possible. collections and artifacts from the Middle Ages. He has been —Ms. Donna Scuorzo very gracious with his time throughout the years.

Catapults by Brianna Andres, Working on Science project Liam McManus, Leslie Talmadge and Anthony Caezza Abby East and Alexis Lockwood

Joe DeVona as a squire to Mr. McManus Stained glass windows using our Chenango County Council of Arts Grant and Afton CSD monies

13 7th Grade Life Science Elementary Library Media Are 7th graders larger than Bald Eagles? What are the big Specialist of the Year Awarded birds that soar on warm summer air? These are questions Ms. Leslie McGraw was recog- that were explored by seventh graders with the assistance nized by DCMO BOCES Library of Mrs. Jump and student teacher Ms. Donadio. Students System as Elementary Library researched an assigned local bird species and discovered the Media Specialist of the Year on flight silhouette, food source, behavior and common calls May 18, at the annual Administrative of the bird. Then the students created a scale size paper and Librarian breakfast. Leslie was model of their bird. The Science hallway was a sight with nominated by Elementary Principal artistic renditions of various local birds creatively painted Kimberly Werth and members of and on display for all to see. the elementary team. The team —Mrs. MacKenzie Jump Ms. Leslie McGraw stated, “Leslie is at the forefront of progress in our Afton Elementary School. She works with PK-5 students and staff, and is active in our community.” Leslie has held the title of Library Media Specialist in the Afton Elementary School for 17 years. Leslie realizes that motivating readers for educational and personal benefit requires many levels of encourage- ment. Kimberly Werth, Elementary Principal, states, “Leslie is a highly respected member of our elementary team. She is instrumental to the strength of our literacy program. Her wealth of knowledge and passion for advancement and growth of the librarianship is deserving of recognition by the District and by her peers.” Fellow teachers state, “Leslie Learning About Japan is a role model for all librarians to follow, and we are so Our first grade classes spent many library class periods fortunate to have her here at Afton Elementary School.” reading and learning about Japan. We ended our unit with Here are some of the comments by our elementary a visit from Mi-Yu Tanaka, a Rotary foreign exchange stu- students about Ms. McGraw and the Elementary Library. dent from Japan. Mi-Yu spoke about her life at home and • Thank you for helping me on tough words. some of the differences and similarities she has found here • I love the library because you get to read. in America. Our students had many excellent questions to • Thank you for reading to me. ask her about her life in Japan. She led them in making an • You rock! Ms. McGraw, you helped me find a lot of origami dog and then showed them how to make an origami books. You’re the best teacher ever. crane, a much more difficult figure! It was a fun visit! • I like to learn about stuff. —Ms. Leslie McGraw • Thank you for helping me find books when I need them. • Thank you for teaching us how to look for books. • Thank you for reading us books and saying them like you are the characters. • I think you are really nice. You have a great sense of humor too. You have always helped me when I needed it. I can see why you got this award. • Magnificent teacher • Caring about her students • Great reader • Really nice teacher • Awesome Kneeling: Zachariah Chamberlain, Zachery Swislowski, • Worthy of awards Jesse Steele, Taylor Schultz, Damien Terrell, Loraine The Afton Elementary School is proud to have nomi- McCaulley; standing: Jaden Moore, Brodie Olesak, nated Leslie McGraw for this award. The District and Olivia Harris-Morris, Grace Bergskaug, Bridgitte community congratulate Leslie as our Library Media Jennings, Emalea Harrington, Mi-Yu Tanaka, Kandace Specialist of the Year. Reagan, Jared Brown, Hunter Scott, Wyatt Austin —Mrs. Kimberly Werth

14 Great Year of Reading Students Take Trip Our primary grades celebrated a great year of reading with a day to Afton Free Library devoted to recognition and pure fun. The third knighting ceremony occu- The first grade and fourth grade classes pied most of our morning on June 18. There were 125 students knighted took walking trips to the Afton Free Library. at this ceremony with 113 of them becoming Crimson Knights. Students For a few students, this was their first visit became Crimson Knights only if they achieved their goal all three times. to a public library. For all students, it was a We were excited that so many students achieved this level. Thanks to good reminder of what public libraries have to our Crimson Knight Mr. McManus, for giving us his time and making offer and the ways that they can fulfill student these knighting ceremonies so special. needs. Students were encouraged to visit any The afternoon was devoted to an outside fair, filled with arts and crafts of their local libraries this summer! booths and games. Our students in pre-kindergarten through second —Ms. Leslie McGraw grade had a great time as did all the adults who were there to help. We look forward to welcoming a well read student body back in the fall. We hope to have many of our students meet the Summer Reading Challenge. Information about the Challenge was sent home with students. —Ms. Leslie McGraw

Front row: Geoffrey Frank; second row: Ashton Longwell, Kayla Wilcox, Victoria Swislowsky, Damian Taylor, Colin Nabinger; back: Kyle Grover, Joe Couture, Cheyenne Survilla, Josh Barber, Ms. McGraw, Hannah Gilbert, Kathryn Erckert, Milena Ms. Keller, Logan Bolster and Jacob Wright watch as Alex Hoeppner Tomas, Taylor Possemato attempts to throw a bean bag through one of the holes in the target.

Students Are Knighted Second Graders Our pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first grade and second grade students continued to Read Biographies After learning about read toward meeting their goals for the second biographies, students knighting. We had 125 green knights advance were challenged to read to the blue, and ten new students become green a biography about some- knights in March. —Ms. Leslie McGraw one they were unfamiliar with, and write a short ◄ Kendall Winans waits to be knighted. report about what they learned. All participants’ names were put in a hat, and one was chosen. The student selected was Seth Andres who received a biography about Abraham Lincoln. Everyone else was allowed to choose a paper- back prize book. All the participants were win- Second grade students Ashley Page, Ricky Bay, ners because they put forth extra effort, and Lucas Nichols, Colby Graef, Zachary Gardepe in so doing, learned about a famous person! —Ms. Leslie McGraw

15 Enrichment Class Dr. Seuss Day The Afton Elementary fourth and fifth grade enrichment class, which The Elementary School celebrated was funded by Federal Government Stimulus Title 1 Grant money, studied Dr. Seuss Day with lots of fun activities. a variety of topics with Ms. Sines and Mrs. Andrews including writing a The library ran a Dr. Seuss Question of play, writing a short novel, science experiments and cooking. the Day Contest for the week leading up From February to April, Mrs. Torta worked with the class study- to March 2. The cafeteria offered green ing New York State government and our representatives. First the eggs and ham as a breakfast choice on that students studied a variety of issues facing our government this year day. The lower grade levels welcomed like the Sugar Tax, Gun Law, parks closing and Farm Workers’ Fair special guests, with Dr. Seuss reading, Labor Act. Afterwards, they developed questions about what they into their classrooms. All elementary stu- wanted to know regarding these topics. Mrs. Torta received a $500 dents enjoyed highlights from Seussical, Catskill Regional Teacher Center Grant for traveling expenses for the Musical, performed by the Middle the class to go to Albany to interview Senator Libous, Assemblyman School and Elementary School choruses. Crouch and Assemblyman Lopez. Because of bussing problems, the Many thanks to Mrs. Liz Dawson for class was not able to go to Albany, but the students were able to have a arranging the guest readers and for the conference call with Assemblyman Crouch and Assemblyman Lopez. delightful costumes. The Assemblymen were very helpful in answering all of the students’ —Ms. Leslie McGraw questions. Assemblyman Lopez wants to come to the school and visit all the students again. Senator Libous decided to come to Afton Elementary School and answer the questions in person. He came on March 31 and not only answered their questions, but also visited the fourth and fifth grade stu- dents plus the administration. Senator Libous talked with the students about his job, the State symbols, who he represents, and encouraged the students to sign up for his BOOKS program, which is run in conjunction with Morrisville State College. He stressed the importance of literacy Jacob Wright, Mrs. Lawrence, Alexis and explained how his program strives to make reading fun with incen- Shepard, Elizabeth Quackenbush, tives for the amount of time spent reading. Information is available at Isabella Fairfield, Mrs. Dawson, Devin www.booksprogram.com for parents interested in finding out more about Dungey, Jaden Zellers, Gary Petroski, the program. While the Senator was here, the enrichment students gave Mrs. Werth, A.J. Ramos, Fred Bell, him a fish and explained the fish philosophy. They also gave him a tour Lillian Mazepa, Mallory Carmen, Jason of the school. The enrichment students then made a PowerPoint® or Reeves, Georgie Palmetier, Mrs. Sutton. SmartBoard™ presentation about two of the topics that interested them the most and included information from the interviews and articles for and against the issues plus their opinion. They showed the Afton School Board their presentations at a Board meeting. Kathleen Mani-Moore, Chief of Staff, for Assemblyman Cliff Crouch gave all the students cer- tificates for their presentations on the government during Moving Up Day on June 22. The enrichment class wants to say thank you again to Senator Libous, Assemblyman Crouch and Assemblyman Lopez for their help in learning about our state government and understanding the issues. —Mrs. Diana Torta Conner Humphrey, Mr. Phetteplace, Harley Silfee

Vincent Caiati, Milena Tomas, Mr. Thomas Libous, Amelia Reuter, Troy Mercilliott, Katie Tiley and Savanna Knapp

16 What Makes Afton Elementary School a Great Place to Grow and Learn? Each year around this time, I sit out on my front porch, We started placing SmartBoards™ in our classrooms and I think about the Afton Newsletter and what mes- this year. Through a grant, a SmartBoards™ for every sage it is I truly want to convey to our students, staff and classroom was ordered and will be in place by the fall. community members. This year, I was reflecting while We continue to attend professional development oppor- reviewing the Afton Elementary Handbook, which states tunities, share with each other and look at how to use on its cover, Afton Elementary, a Great Place to Grow and the SmartBoards™ in our classrooms to enhance our Learn. That sounds and looks very nice on paper, but what curriculum. Do these many accomplishments make us a is it that supports that belief that we are indeed a great great school? elementary school? Our parents have reorganized the Parent and Teacher We are an elementary school in good standing with Organization and have proven that they are committed New York State. Our annual progress is above the state to supporting our teachers, children and administration. benchmark. Our students score well on state tests in Social Does this make us a great school? Studies, Science, Math and ELA. Our math scores have Our Elementary Response to Intervention (RTI) team been the highest in the area for the past several years. spends many hours each month planning for and provid- This shows that what we are doing academically is competi- ing interventions to our students to address gaps and meet tive, but does it make us a great school? the individual learning styles and needs of our elementary Our character education and asset building programs students. We had fluidity in our Academic Intervention have been a strong focus the past three years. Students Services (AIS) program for the first time this year because have a pledge called The Afton Way that they recite each of the intervention process and the dedication of the inter- morning. They attend asset building class in third and fifth vention team and classroom teachers to our students and grade where they learn about the importance of being their their individual needs and learning styles. Does this make own person, and making good choices starting in Pre-K. us a great school? Does this make us a great school? All of the above are wonderful successes that we have Our teachers attend many hours of professional devel- had this year in our elementary school. All of the above are opment to increase their knowledge and stay current with accomplishments that we can brag about as a community best practices. They work many hours after school and and as a school. They are, however, not what I believe makes throughout the summer to learn, to plan curriculum, reading Afton Elementary School a great place to grow and learn. incentive programs, etc. Does that make us a great school? Afton Elementary School is great simply because of Our teachers provide services like Homework Café, the people. I have been with the District for thirteen years, Enrichment, and Saturday Seminars. They volunteer hours the first ten years as a teacher in pre-first and then second to provide academic help to students above and beyond grade. The first class that I taught will be seniors and the their workday including implementation of study groups, last class that I taught will be leaving elementary school this book talks and before school AIS math. Does this make us year. In the last three years, I have been honored to lead the a great school? elementary team as the elementary principal. We have really The elementary team meets monthly and grade level worked together to develop and nurture a positive learning teams meet weekly to plan and reflect on curriculum, community in our elementary school. Everyone’s role in best practices, classroom management, management and this elementary school is equally important and celebrated. development of centers and nurturing a positive learning The cafeteria staff provides words of encouragement, community. Does this make us a great school? smiles and delicious meals. Our custodial staff ensures a We updated our social studies curriculum this year to clean, healthy and safe environment. Our bus drivers ensure ensure alignment with state standards and best practices. a safe ride to and from school with a warm welcome and We started working on overhauling our science curriculum. goodbye to every student. Our classroom aides provide We discussed and researched further curriculum integra- love, encouragement and education at little financial ben- tion and the development of focus groups in the upper efit. Our office staff works hard every single day to ensure elementary grades. We updated our handwriting curricu- the smooth operation of the elementary school through lum in second grade, implemented benchmark assessments their kind words, organization and positive work ethic. in ELA and Math, revised our portfolio cover sheets and Our technology staff plans, trains, troubleshoots and makes implemented a process for next year to track student reading sure we have the best technology we can offer. Our teach- and math growth throughout their elementary and middle ers, are dedicated, positive, life-long learners who strive school career. (continued on next page)

17 (continued from previous page) to make a difference for all children and provide the Elementary Awards— best learning experience they possibly can. Our par- Perfect Attendance ents, families and community members work with the The following students had perfect attendance for the school, volunteer to read, encourage their children, 2009-2010 school year. set routines for homework and bed time, promote strong work ethics and character in their children. Kindergarten It is all of these contributions combined that make Afton Jaden Sweeney Elementary School a great place to grow and learn. 2nd Grade As a school, do we have things to work on? Absolutely! Zachary Gardepe, Ethan Smith and Jannelle Volk Do we always handle things perfectly and always have 3rd Grade the right answers? Of course we do not. Do we sometimes Tylor Cummings, Paul Mercilliott get frazzled? Of course we do. Can we always improve? Without a doubt, we can. A life-long commitment to 4th Grade growth, learning and improvement of staff and students Joshua Barber is what Afton Elementary School is all about. 5th Grade Our goals going into this year will continue to focus Brett Hubbard and Zachary Rowe on increasing student achievement, building community rapport, increasing parent communication and involve- ment and implementing research-based best practices Elementary Awards— into every classroom to ensure students have the tools Citizens of the Month and teaching that will ensure they reach their individual, The following students were our citizens of the month optimal potential. during the school year. We look forward to the new school year with antici- 1st grade pation, excitement, and yes, even a little trepidation. Joseph Caezza, Emily Koster, Loraine McCaulley, We will be implementing some new social studies Michaela Roach, Chelsey Smith, Amanda Spooner, curriculum concepts in grades K-5, adding some new Katelyn Stosko, Zachery Swislosky and Damien math concepts in grades K-5, implementing standards- Terrell based report cards in grades 3-5, adding focus groups in grades 4-5, and increasing our focus on curriculum 2nd grade integration in grades 3-5. Gerald Elliott, Zachary Gardepe, James Greene, We believe that to continue to move forward in Taylor Hinman, Ariel Hochman, Jenny Jacoby, Reilly providing the best for our students, we cannot become Lockwood, Lucas Nichols, Ashlee Quackenbush and stagnant. We must take the risk of moving outside of Jannelle Volk our comfort zones to try new, research-based practices 3rd grade that have the potential to improve student performance. Bernadette Barbarise, Travis Burns, Casey East, The trepidation comes in wanting these initiatives to Nolan Graves, Patrick Haynes, Jerrel Reigada, be successful. Only time will tell if they are as good Alexis Silfee, Ritajane Silfee, Calixta Terrell, Emily as they appear to be on paper and through research. Townsend We look forward to the coming school year and to working with parents and families to educate them on 4th grade the changes and why we believe they are best for our Ryan Barnes, Kathryn Erckert, Geoffrey Frank, students. As always, thank you for your support of the Hannah Gilbert, Annie Graven-Briggs, Kyle Grover, Afton Elementary School. I hope you have a wonderful Rachael Haynes, Matilda Knapp, Mario Ruttkiewicz, and safe summer vacation. Kayla Wilcox, Charles Wilson We look forward to seeing all of you in the fall. 5th grade To all students, I remind you that if you wish to dunk Raeann Baker, Rachel Curtis, Michael Graven- your favorite teacher or throw a pie at the face of your Briggs, Mariah Hinman, Conner Humphrey, Keith principal, you need to read, read, read this summer. Ives, Maya Kenyon, Schyler Longwell, Amelia We will be holding our welcome back picnic and reading Reuter, Eric Smith celebration the first Friday of school. —Mrs. Kimberly Werth —Mrs. Kimberly Werth

18 Just Desserts! Spring into Books On April 9-16, the Afton PTO sponsored the Scholastic Spring into Books PK-12 Book Fair. Our goal was to return the profit to the literacy pro- gram at the middle school level. Along with the Book Fair, the PTO collected donated change throughout the community. Fifty dollars was collected and the PTO was able to purchase 14 books to fill teacher wish lists for classroom books. Thank you to all who came to the Book Fair and those who supported it with their change! The PTO would like to thank Mr. DeVona. Without his Elementary student, Joe Istvan, pies Mrs. Werth. help and guidance this would not have been possible. The sixth grade classes made wonderful kites decorated Mrs. Werth, Elementary Principal, got her just desserts with their favorite author/book title, which we put on (whipped cream pies) as a consequence of the third, fourth and display. The third grade classes also displayed their fifth grade students meeting her reading challenge. The stu- homemade windsocks. The PTO is currently working dents read over 1,000 books during the second half of the year. with the middle school staff to purchase the materials. —Ms. Leslie McGraw We look forward to promoting literacy and sponsoring the Book Fair again next year! The PTO will continue to meet on a monthly basis, Women Helping Girls starting in September. We look forward to planning On May 1, Mrs. Cindy Covey chaperoned a trip to SUNY and sponsoring more community/student events for Oneonta. With her were girls selected by the sixth grade teach- all to enjoy. We welcome all parents and community ers and guidance as most likely to benefit from interacting members to join us as we move forward in promoting with professional women. Selected to go were Daphne Knapp, a positive learning environment for all our students. Shyahna Gaydorus, Nicole Haynes, Nikita Caratelli, Sarah For more information regarding the PTO, please call Beames and Leslie Tallmadge. 639-8234 and look for meeting dates and times on the At the university, the girls met with professional women school calendar. who told them the importance of staying in school, studying —Mrs. Deanna Lawrence difficult courses, and of the many career paths open to them. Some of the women they spoke with were a nurse, a detective, a pharmacist, an agronomist, a convenience store operator, a kindergarten teacher, and a woman who helps mentally chal- lenged residents. The day ended with lunch in the dining hall, which was an eye-opening experience for all of the girls. On the trip home, the girls compared notes about what they had learned. They talked about the girls they had met from other schools and about the different careers. They expressed their desire to attend college, possibly even SUNY Oneonta. Mrs. Elaine Livingston, Mrs. Pam Haynes, For all involved, it was an enjoyable outing. Mrs. Lu Dwyer, and Mrs. Deanna Lawrence —Mrs. Cindy Covey displaying several books the PTO was able to purchase with donated monies.

Nicole Haynes, Daphne Knapp, Leslie Tallmadge, Shyahna Gaydorus, Nikita Caratelli and Sarah Beames

19 Grades 3-5 Reading Incentive Goodbye to It is the goal of the 3-5 reading incentive team to encour- Trooper Shannon Hartz age our students to read by rewarding them for indepen- Trooper Shannon Hartz has been a mainstay in the hall- dently reading books above and beyond the curriculum ways of the Afton Central School District for several years. requirements. This year our Read for the Team incentive As our school resource officer, she has been instrumental in began with a kick-off where the students were challenged asset building, friendship groups, anti-bullying curriculum to each read a certain number of books per marking period. implementation, staff development and most importantly, Each grade level put together a puzzle that hinted at what developing a positive rapport with students, staff and fami- three of the fun activities they would get to participate lies. Soon Trooper Hartz’ office will be empty as she will in if they reached their individual incentive. The puzzles be turning her attention to other duties as assigned by the revealed bowling, volleyball and roller-skating as possible N.Y. State Police Department. activities. All school resource officers are being pulled from school They were also challenged by Mrs. Werth to read 900 districts across New York, as the State will no longer pro- books as a team by the end of January. Mrs. Werth prom- vide funding for this worthwhile program. Trooper Hartz ised to dress like a clown for the day if they reached their has made a difference for many children, adolescents and team goal. Our young readers were very excited about their adults. We wish her lots of luck in her new endeavors. individual and team goals and started reading right away. We hope she can find time to visit us next year and that she Over 60 students met their individual goal the first mark- knows how much she means to those of us who have had ing period and were rewarded by a morning of bowling at the pleasure to work so closely with her during her many Galaxy Bowl in Bainbridge. In January, students who met years here at Afton. Best of luck Trooper Shannon Hartz, their goal played beach volleyball. They even had a visit by you will be greatly missed. Mrs. Werth, the clown, because they also met Principal’s —Mrs. Kimberly Werth Challenge by reading over 900 books! The incentive activity for the third quarter included roller-skating and laser tag at Skate Estate in Vestal. Over 80 students reached their goal to attend this activity! Students who reach their last goal for the year will be treated to their choice of a movie day in the auditorium or a dance/pool party. The 3-5 grade reading incentive team is very proud of our students’ drive and hard work to reach their reading goals. We strive to make reading exciting and fun for our students so that they will become lifelong readers. —Mrs. Tara McManus Trooper Hartz along with the third grade classes of Mrs. Kehoe and Mrs. Mayo after they completed a year Emalee Fico, Katie Tiley of Asset Building. Mrs. Whitacre is absent from the photo playing laser tag (she assisted with the Asset Building training).

Harlem Rockets Visit Afton

Mrs. Cutting, Mrs. Kehoe guiding Trey Nerzak Maggie Graven-Briggs and Nicholas Bagg balance a roller-skating basketball on a pen, with Harlem Rocket’s, The Wizard. —Photo by Ms. Mary Beth Teed

20 School Wide Book Swap Third Grade Visits Rosamond Gifford Zoo The Third Grade class visited Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, on June 2. This field trip was an extremely important excursion because it enhanced their Science cur- riculum. Students were able to observe vertebrates such as elephants, monkeys, lions, tigers and various birds, as well as invertebrates such as spiders, ticks and a large variety of insects. Students were also able to see the animals in their natural habitats. Field trips are awesome because they reinforce what is taught in the classroom and bring the learning to life! Joe Couture, Colin Nabinger, Ashton Longwell and —Mrs. Kehoe and Mrs. Mayo Travis Burns look for a good book at the book swap. The kick off to the summer reading challenge began with a school wide book swap. The swap was designed to put books into the hands of our students for summer reading. We thank all the students and parents who added books to our collection and made it possible to give multiple books to every student. —Ms. Leslie McGraw

Travis Burns, Joey Sager, Caleigh Stevens, Madison Let’s Have Some Fun! Baciuska, Adam Corey, Calixta Terrell and Alexis Silfee

Come and Make A Splash What’s All the Buzz About? at the 2010 Afton Free Library Alina Alfonsi, a sixth grade reading student, and her Summer Reading Program Aunt Lina Cesnavicius, a Lecturer of Business Computing at Hartwick College, and a professional natural beekeeper, Afton Free Library enlightened the sixth grade classes with an awesome pre- 105A Main Street, Afton sentation on the importance bees play to our ecosystem. 1:00-2:30 p.m. Alina prepared a wonderful PowerPoint presentation and Ms. Cesnavicius brought along several props to accompany this informative lecture. We all left with a greater under- July 22—Mr. Beau the Clown standing and appreciation of bees. Thank-you to Alina and Experience the wonder of this unique clown. Ms. Cesnavicius for taking the time to share such important Juggling, joke-telling, pantomime, magic, puppetry. information! Balloon animals for everyone and more! —Mrs. Lu Dwyer July 29—Fun DAY! Fun with games, crafts, reading prizes and refreshments. Parents and caregivers are welcome. For more information, please call the Afton Free Library at 639-1212.

Alina and her Aunt Lina giving a PowerPoint presentation on the importance of bees.

21 ACS Hosts Wellness Day Alice Burnett Retires The Afton Wellness Committee hosted a fun-filled For many years, Alice Burnett has been a hero to the Wellness Day on Friday, February 12. Three main events students and residents of Afton and the surrounding com- were going on simultaneously throughout the school. munities as the nurse practitioner at ACS. She is also the Elementary students were able to show off their swim- nurse practitioner at Dr. Stephen Dygert’s Office. ming skills to parents and community under the direction After the flood of 2006, Alice tirelessly helped commu- of Cathy Decker. Chenango County community partners nity members at school, as well as the doctor’s office, when were set up in the small gym. Elementary and middle they were displaced from their homes. She spent evenings school students were given the opportunity to search for in the cafeteria and even slept overnight on the couch so answers to their Wellness Trivia Questions and be entered that residents would feel safe and cared for. Having Alice into a drawing for prizes. Community partners were as fol- around in an emergency helps to give people peace of mind. lows: Chenango County Alcohol and Drug, Mental Health, While Alice’s volunteer service would fill reams of Poison Control, Catholic Charities, 4-H, Public Health, paper, please let me share with you a few of the activities United Health Services/Asthma Education, Big Brothers/ in which Alice is involved: Big Sisters, Afton Fire Department, Boy Scouts, AYSO, • Salvation Army Coordinator for Afton Chenango Tobacco-Free Healthy Schools and the Chenango • Local Daffodil program coordinator for the American County Sheriff’s Department. WCDO did a live remote Cancer Society while faculty, staff, students and community members • Chaperone for school functions and trips . . . sports interacted with community agencies and gathered important teams, clubs, etc. almost every night of the week after wellness information. working two jobs . . . weekends, too! Afton Physical Education staff facilitated an interactive • Guest speaker at the Afton Memorial Day ceremony tour through the Heart in the high school gym. Students • Brownie and Girl Scout leader learned about the structure and function of the heart by • Organizer of the holiday food basket distribution and participating in mini physical challenges through the Heart gifts for the Angel Tree recipients. Adventure course. • The 1996 recipient of the Sertoma Service to The first annual Afton Wellness Day proved to be a Mankind Award success . . . fun and education, a great combination! • Grand Marshall at Afton Village Christmas Parade —Ms. Jessica Wheeler I am proud to say that Alice is a member of my family and that she is loved and appreciated and thought of as a sister and daughter. The next time someone asks you to volunteer your time, remember Alice Burnett and her selflessness, and get involved! Congratulations on your retirement from Afton School. You will be dearly missed by all! Thank you for everything! —Mrs. June Burnett White

Students participating in mini physical challenges through the Heart Adventure course.

Robyn Vernon enjoying a healthy snack. Retiree Alice Burnett

22 Scholar Athletes and Scholar Athlete Teams Fall Milk Cross-Country (Boys’)...... Corey Mohrien Cross-Country (Girls’)...... Carman Myers Matters... Milk Field Hockey...... Sayde Gaydorus No Bones Golf...... Tristan Hoblin About It, Kids Can’t Do Matters... Soccer (Boys’)...... Kevin Sutton Without It. Swimming (Girls’)...... Payton Cutting Milk for Strong No Bones About It, In addition, 12 members of our Varsity Boys’ Soccer team had a combined average Bones & Teeth Kids Can’t Do Without It. of 90% or better (93.594%) to qualify them as a Scholar/Athlete Team. They were: Rebecca Baudendistel, Patrick Chandler, Nathan Cutting, Richard Parsons, Milk for Strong Bones & Teeth Kurt Rogler, Adam Rupakus, Stephane Sherman, Brandon Stevens, Kevin Sutton, Alex Tiley, Mark Viviano and Corey Westfall. Eleven members of our merged Varsity Girls’ Swim team had a combined average of 90% or better (92.901%) to qualify them as a Scholar/Athlete Team. They were: Maria Andrews (A), Amanda Benkovitz (B-G), Payton Cutting (A), Erin Daly (A), Annalise Haberman (B-G), Meghan Hanvey (B-G), Joanna Herron (B-G), Alexis Macy (B-G), Jeannine McCollum (B-G), Caitlyn Tallmadge (A) and Annette Vernon (A). Winter Basketball (Boys’)...... Corey Mohrien Basketball (Girls’)...... Payton Cutting MILK Bowling (Boys’)...... Daniel Clark Bowling (Girls’)...... Melinda Bradtke Swimming (Boys’)...... Nathan Cutting Indoor Track (Boys’)...... Shawn Kelly Indoor Track (Girls’)...... Julia Knapp HOW MUCH CALCIUM DO YOU NEED EACH DAY? Volleyball...... Samantha Griffith Wrestling...... Christopher Anthony AGES CALCIUM (MG) In addition, seven members of our Varsity Girls’ Bowling team had a combined 1-3 600 HOW MUCH CALCIUM average of 90% or better (91.493%) to qualify them as a NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete 4-8 800 Team. Members are: Melinda Bradtke, Erin Daly, Sarah Erckert, Kateryna Santa DO YOU NEED EACH DAY? 9-18 1,300 Cruz, Suzana Sera, Caitlyn Tallmadge and Lillian Tomas. AGES CALCIUM (MG) Eight members of our Varsity Volleyball team had a combined average of 90% or One 8 oz. glass of milk 1-3 600 better (91.496%) to qualify them as a NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete Team. Members has about 300 MG are: Chelsey Boudreau, Carolyn Ellis, Samantha Griffith, Stacey Guokas, Lani of calcium. 4-8 800 McAdams, Brittany Moore, Cassandra Prezorski and Rebekah Prezorski. 9-18 1,300 Spring Baseball...... Christopher Anthony Softball ...... Payton Cutting One 8 oz. glass of milk Track & Field (Boys’)...... Shawn Kelly has about 300 MG Track & Field (Girls’)...... Julia Knapp of calcium. Finally, 11 members of our Varsity Softball team had a combined average of 90% or better (90.687%) to qualify them as a Scholar/Athlete Team. They were: Taylor Briggs, Payton Cutting, Chasity Eckert, Carolyn Ellis, Stacey Guokas, Brittany Moore, Nicole Mulieri, Stephanie Parsons, Cassidy Phillips, Stephanie Sherman and Jessica Winans. National Institute National Institute of Child Health of Child Health We also had two Afton students qualify for the merged Girls’ Track and Field and Human and Human Development Development team as a NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete team. They were: Julia Knapp and Carman For more information, contact the Myers. Two Afton students qualified on the merged Boys’ Track and Field team as a NICHD/Milk Matters Clearinghouse For more information, contact the NICHD/Milk Matters NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete team. They were: Shawn Kelly and Andrew Sanford. at 800•370•2943. Clearinghouse at 800•370•2943. —Submitted by Mrs. Connie Beams

23 2009-2010 Winter and Spring Sports Summary Varsity Girls’ Basketball Boys’ JV Basketball Coach John Simonds Coach Fred Mohrien The 2009-2010 basketball season was one of survival. Although the JV Boys’ Basketball team only won two games With only 14 girls coming out to play, it was a ques- this season, it was highly successful in terms of both individual tion whether or not we would be able to field two teams. and team improvement. Despite having a limited number of We started the season without 2nd Team All-Star Britney players, the team was competitive in their contests. Offensively, Patten. We lost perennial All-Star Jessica Winans half we were led by Mitch Decker and Cameron Oswald. James way through. Then we played our last scheduled game Westfall and Rick Parsons also made positive contributions to without leading scorer Stephanie Parsons. We finished the the team’s offense throughout the season. Phil Grey, Shannon season 8-12. The team did a great job of working together. Crane and Josh Davy provided excellent defense throughout They showed a lot of character, overcoming all the injuries, the season. The team was also helped by the great all-around and the lack of 5-on-5 practices. I want to thank the girls play of Dane Ellis. Based on the improvements made over the for their effort through a long and tough season. season, Afton Basketball will remain successful during the JV Girls’ Basketball high school careers of these eight players. Coach Ernest Cutting 8th Grade Boys’ Basketball The Girls’ JV Basketball team wrapped up their season Coach Justin Smith with a loss at Hancock on February 18. Seven young ladies The 8th Grade Boys’ Basketball team completed the 2009 faced a daunting task of playing the season undermanned. season with a 3-7 record. The eight-member squad focused on Due to injuries throughout the season, we played many the fundamentals of the game and learned to play each position games with five or six players. on the court. The boys demonstrated improvement throughout We knew from the beginning of the season that it would the season and saved their best overall performance for the last be difficult. We collaborated as a team, set smaller team game at Deposit. The entire team contributed on both ends of goals, and focused on small successes. One of our defensive the court and played with great intensity and passion. I hope goals was to hold our opponents to less than 40 points; we that they will continue to practice in the off-season and attend accomplished this in eight games. One of our offensive goals summer camps to continue to work on their skills as they was to score in double figures, which was accomplished in advance to the next level. Thank you to all the parents and fans 14 of our games. Our overall team goal was to work hard for your support throughout the season! and continue to improve. The girls accomplished this goal 7th Grade Boys’ Basketball and exhibited good sportsmanship all season long. Coach Pat Lynch Despite a disappointing record of 0-18, none of our Afton’s 7th Grade Boys’ Basketball season can best be team members quit, complained or gave up. We improved summed up as a learning experience. The boys learned many individually and as a team. basic fundamentals that will help them in the future. They need Girls’ Modified Basketball to play a lot of basketball during the off-season and perhaps go Coach Pat Lynch to basketball camp to further develop these skills. The Girls’ Modified Basketball team had a good season. Girls’ Varsity Volleyball The girls learned a lot about the game of basketball. Coach Niki Page They improved in every aspect of the game. I enjoyed I would like to congratulate the 2009-2010 Girls’ coaching this team. Volleyball team on another successful season. We finished Boys’ Varsity Basketball with an overall record of 6-10 and 5-5 in our division. Coach Richard Winans This may not sound like a winning season to many, but for The beginning of our season started slowly as we were me the real success was in the girls’ hard work and dedica- unable to win our first game until our regular division season tion needed to even have a season. With only eight players, started. We had some close calls, such as our loss to B-G they needed to maintain good grades, be at every practice when we missed our last shot of the game, and in the loss to and every match to be able to compete and have a season. Delhi, when they hit a shot at the buzzer. They did that! Another emotional hurdle the girls faced was We started to do good things as the season progressed, that volleyball is moving to the fall season next year and beating Hancock and then beating B-G, splitting wins with some face making a choice between two sports they love. them. We wrapped up with 2nd place in the division with a For those who choose field hockey, good luck, you will 7-3 division record and overall 8-12. I would like to thank the be missed. For the rest, see you in August! boys for their dedication and the parents for their support.

24 Girls’ JV Volleyball Boys’ Modified Swim Coach Jennifer Smith Coach Eric Diefenbacher This year’s JV Volleyball team played well in our league. The first official season of the ABGHS Boys’ Modified We were even with those teams winning half of our games. Swimming season was a great start for the program. Tiffany Carr and Kelly Lutz proved to be consistently Continual improvement was shown by all swimmers good at serving and leading the team in points scored. throughout the season. The boys listened to the coach and Dakota Latham showed great improvement for a freshman. applied the techniques and suggestions they were given not She played some tournaments at the Varsity level. Maria only in practice but during competition as well. The talent of Andrews is another freshman who showed a lot of promise. these individuals is not reflected in their 0-5-0 record. The With volleyball moving to the fall season, it is hard to only reason they lost was due to sheer numbers. The boys tell what next year will bring, but we wish the girls their consistently swam against teams whose numbers doubled, best and hope they stay with the program. if not tripled their own; and in championship style, three Girls’ Modified Volleyball or more teams at a meet, almost every meet. However, the Coaches Cindy Bostelman/Corinne Wilson ABGHS/MAKOS excelled in these situations and composed The Modified Volleyball season was a success this year. themselves with the dignity and integrity of senior level We had a lot of fun and finished with a winning record. Varsity swimmers. At our meets, despite the volume of other The girls really seemed to enjoy the season. We had many swimmers in each event, the MAKOS scored points making improvements in all the girls. it into the top five each and every swim and in many cases We look forward to next year’s season. they won their event. To close the season, our home meet at Sidney School pool produced several new pool records Makos Boys’ Varsity Swim Team held by Brandt McCall (50 freestyle, 100 freestyle), Cole Coach Kevin Diefenbacher Mathews (2100 backstroke) and Cody Hurlbut (100 IM). The 2009-2010 MAKOS Boys’ Varsity Swim team started out with 16 well-rounded swimmers getting ready Varsity Softball for a very good season of swimming. The team record was Coach Cindy Bostelman four wins, five losses, and one tie over-all, and three wins, The Afton Varsity Softball team put in a very exciting two losses and one tie in MAC. The team kept up the hard and challenging 2010 season. Playing a 23 game schedule, work they started with from day one throughout the season. the team challenged many larger and talented schools like The team had 32 personal best times through the dual meet Sandy Creek, Oneonta, Binghamton, Seton Catholic, Vestal part of the season. At season-ending Class A Sectionals and Corning West. (with 13 swimmers entered), the team had 13 personal best During the spring break, the team traveled back to times, with a team average time drop of eight seconds. Orlando for their sixth appearance in Spring Break The highlights for the MAKOS are many: first place Tournament. While there, the team played six scrimmages. team at the MAC relay meet, third place at the MAC Returning home the team swept the MAC League going Championships with a total of 247 points, and voted 10–0. Facing rival Greene in the X-over Championship, the MAC Team Sportsmanship award by the coaches. they came up short of a victory. The MAKOS had seven picks on the 2nd Team MAC During the break between regular season and postseason All-Stars, who are Kurt Rogler (200 medley relay, 100 play, starting pitcher Payton Cutting suffered a bad fall, backstroke); Kevin Bullis (200 medley relay, 100 breast- which did not allow her to finish the season. Seventh grader, stroke); Shane Schneidau (200 medley relay, 100 butter- Cassidy Phillips, stepped in for the injured Cutting to lead the fly); and Rob McLean (200 medley relay). The team of team though sectionals. The team scored 43 runs to their oppo- Kurt Rogler, Kevin Bullis, Shane Schneidau and Rob nents 0, capturing their 16th straight Section 4 Championship. McLean set a pool record at the Sidney High School pool Next up for the Lady Knights was Regional play, facing in the 200 medley relay in the first ever Varsity Swim meet Stockbridge Valley for the third consecutive year. Playing held at Sidney. The biggest highlight of the season came excellent defense and good hitting helped them to capture a on January 21, when the MAKOS tied the Greene High 6-1 victory, sending the Lady Knights back to the NY State School team 85 to 85, stopping Greene’s winning streak Championship for the 15 time. During the semi-final game, over MAC teams at 47. we faced Bolivar-Richburg. Due to some defensive errors, The MAKOS will miss their seven seniors next year and we were unable to pull off a victory losing 5-2. will have many holes to fill with the five Modified team The team would like to thank the community, patrons, members moving up to Varsity. The coaching staff wishes fans and parents who made this 2010 season such a great our seniors well in their future and are looking forward to success. Without your generous support, this season could what the 2010-11 season will bring for the MAKOS. not have happened.

25 Varsity Softball Accomplishments spots of the previous graduates or guys who came back to the League Championships 5 game after not playing for a couple of years. Those who came Mac Championships 9 back to the game worked hard to get back up to speed with the Sectional Titles 16 level of play that is required of a Varsity player. Those who Regional Titles 15 returned picked up for last year’s graduates and filled those State appearances 15 roles well, which made the team and year successful. I would NYS Championship titles 1995, 1996, 2001, like to thank all of the parents for their support throughout 2002 and 2009 the season and all of the folks who worked on the fields to Coach Bostelman 22 years coaching get them in shape for the spring season. In addition, I would JV Softball like to thank Mr. Glover who spent several Saturdays and Coach Cathy Decker late afternoons working on the fields to get them ready for A JV program is to build for the future Varsity program. game play. Rick Mohrien also needs to be thanked for his We did just that this year. We had a very young team with dedication to the baseball program. His sacrifices have been three seventh graders and one-eighth grader. We finished appreciated. the season with seven wins and six losses. JV Baseball Seventh graders Cassidy Phillips and Tanya Hatton did Coach Justin Smith an outstanding job on the mound. Other key players were The 2009-2010 JV Baseball team was comprised of a third baseman Jessie Bullis, second baseman Rebekah young and inexperienced group of athletes who had a goal Prezorski, who both did well infield and on the base paths. of gaining game experience this season to help them prepare Players who did an outstanding job filling multiple positions for the next level, regardless of the wins and losses. In a were Dakota Latham, Sierra Palmatier, Bailey Sherman, season where things did not always work in our favor, the and Annette Vernon. We saw improvement for subs Maria team always demonstrated good sportsmanship on and off Andrews, Jackie Iaia, Mikala Sherman and Makalliah the field. The most memorable game was played at Hancock Harris Palladino. We had help from Saydie Gaydorus and where we experienced all four seasons of weather. Playing Chelsea Boudreau who moved up and down from Varsity short-handed and under difficult conditions, the team made throughout the season. a valiant effort and nearly pulled out a win in a very excit- I am looking forward to seeing these young athletes ing game. Thank you to all who helped support this year’s playing key roles in next year’s program! team, especially to those parents who assisted during the Modified Softball games and to our scorekeepers. Coach Corinne Wilson Boys’ Modified Baseball The Modified Softball team was a very strong team Coach Erin Noone this year. The girls seemed to click together right from the Great participation—that sums up the Boys’ Modified start. They really made this year a lot of fun, with a 9-0 Baseball season. From day one, the 7th and 8th grade boys record. They also made it easy to coach. Everyone had a showed up ready to learn and improve. Each player on the great season with everyone getting a lot of good hits and team grew significantly throughout the season because of playing defensively very well. this. With experience levels ranging from first year partici- I will miss this group of girls. I wish them well in pants to having played for a few years in AYSO, we had a future years. wide range of talent and experience, which sometimes can Varsity Baseball be difficult to navigate within a group. Everyone’s attitudes Coach Ron Rapp stayed positive. The players received playing time and the The 2010 Varsity Baseball team was very successful with boys learned what being on a team is all about—supporting an over-all record of 10-10 and a 607 record in the MAC for each other. A perfect example of great participation was second place. The team started out slowly and struggled all during the week of spring break, when practice participation year to get back to five hundred. This was a major goal for the was not required, but held. Daily, fifteen of the eighteen members of this team and the coaching staff. This team was guys were on the field practicing, wanting to do their part very competitive throughout the season losing three games and wanting to improve. Like I said, there was great par- by one run and another by two runs. Winning those games ticipation. That is all I could ask for. would have had a major impact on the season in regards to At the conclusion of the season, we had a pizza party and the MAC Championship and Sectional play. played a short game, 7th vs. 8th grade. The 8th grade team This year we began the season with many new faces in squeaked past the 7th grade team by one run. Afterwards, the line-up, whether it be returning players who were filling each player received an award for participating and a few

26 individual awards were handed out. Josh Austin received ous best of four. Leading the way from Afton was Shawn the Sportsmanship award for his positive attitude on and Kelly who was a Section IV Class Champion and a First off the field. Tyler Burns received Most Improved, as he Team Section IV Class C/D All-Star. always worked hard and made the most gains throughout. BGA Track and Field Lastly, Caleb Stevens received MVP. His attitude, leader- Coach Rob Munro ship on the team and his strong academic work is what it The Boys’ and Girls’ Track and Field program had a is all about. great year, possibly the best in program history. The girls’ In conclusion, this being my first year coaching, I learned team won another MAC Championship and another MAC it is not all about wins and losses, but about growing as an Relays Championship on their way to an undefeated season. athlete, growing as an individual and having fun. Winning This marks the 4th MAC title and the 5th MAC Relays title will come as a byproduct of all these things. Great season! in the last six years for the girls’ program. In that time the Boys’ Varsity Cross-Country girls’ team has compiled a record of 176 wins and only Coach Steve Oakley eight losses to MAC opponents. The highlight for the girls’ The Cross-Country team had its peaks and valleys. The team from an Afton perspective, would have to be when team once again was MAC League runners-up for the third the all Afton 1600 meter relay team of Nikiah Gaydorus, year in a row, but were unable to field a team for the Section Isamarie Ramos, Carmen Myers and Julia Knapp placed IV Championships, due to illness. Captain Chris Antony 4th overall in Section IV. For a school the size of Afton, led the team this year with several impressive runs early, to put out four athletes that can outrun the schools with most notably a 4th place finish at the MAC Championships enrollments well over five times Afton’s size, is a fantastic and a 9th place finish at the Section IV Championships. accomplishment. With almost no one graduating, and many Andy Sanford had an impressive finish to his year, running that are not even in high school yet, the team is looking a personal record time at the Section IV Championships. forward to a very bright future. Corey Mohrien, Shawn Kelly, Jack Hillenbrand, Daulton On the boys’ side, there is little doubt that the team was Palmatier and Josh Beadle also ran well. Next year should the best in program history. The team was undefeated for prove to be another good one for Afton. the second straight year. They won the Gerry O’Donnel Girls’ Indoor Track Team Invitational against mostly STAC teams. They won the Coach Rob Munro MAC Relays and the MAC Championship for the 4th year The Girls’ Indoor Track team had a very successful in a row. In the MAC Championship, the team set a new season. As a team, they took third place in the Hurley- scoring record piling up 200 points, beating the next high- Quinney Invitational as well as the Section IV Class est score by 129. They also went on to win the Section Championship. New program records were set by the 800 IV Class C Team Championship in a very exciting meet. and 1600-meter relay teams, with seven of the eight athletes Over the past four years, the boys have piled up a record running on those relay teams coming from Afton. Isamarie of 121 wins and only one loss against MAC opponents. Ramos became the first ever Afton girl to qualify for the The boys’ team sent relays to the state championships in the State championships. She then went on to set a school record 400 relay, which included Andy Sanford and the 3200 relay. at the National Scholastic Indoor Championships in the The season was capped off with a sixth place state medal mile, with an 8th place finish (highest in school history). for the 400 relay and the program’s first ever individual She was joined at Nationals by Julia Knapp and Nikiah state championship which was won by Chris Burnett in Gaydorus in the 400 meters. Julia placed 15th and Nikiah the 3000 meter steeplechase. Chris will also compete in the place 21st. Afton girls that were involved in new school National Track and Field Championships in North Carolina. records were Julia Knapp, who broke five records, Nikiah The boys’ team was very experienced and will lose a great Gaydorus, Isamarie Ramos and Carmen Myers who broke deal of athletes to graduation, but with many very strong two records each and Holly Andrews. With none of these athletes returning, they will be looking to make it five MAC athletes graduating and many still in middle school, the titles in a row next year. future looks great for the girls’ team. BGA Wrestling Boys’ Indoor Track Team Coach Brandon MacNaught Coach Rob Munro The Bears finished the 2009-10 Dual Season at 5-3, The boys had the best team in the program’s history ending with a heartbreaking 27-30 loss to Windsor in the this year. They placed second in both the Hurley-Quinney Section 4 Dual Meet quarterfinals. They did manage to Invitational as well as the Section IV Class Championships. capture the MAC and Section 4 Class B Tournament titles, Five boys advanced to the state meet, breaking the previ- and qualified 11 wrestlers for the Section 4 tournament, while the team finished 3rd.

27 The Bears crowned one champion in four-time 2010-2011 School Supply List Section 4 Champ Danny Gormley who also had The following is a list of supplies your child will need in an outstanding State tournament finishing 3rd. The September. Thank you for your support in starting your child out Bears will bid farewell to senior Chris Burnett, with the necessary supplies. who was five-time Section 4 place-finisher ending this year with a 4th place finish. Paul Parsons Elementary and Vinnie Buttice each fell short in the finals, Please personalize all items with your child’s name. finished second, and will be gunning for that Kindergarten elusive title next year, as will senior-to-be Daren • Backpack: non-rolling and large enough to hold pocket folder, Terpstra, who finished 5th. snow pants, swimsuit/towel, etc. Placing for the first time was senior Paul • Two boxes of crayons: 16 or 24 count is great! Hamilton of Afton placing 6th at 285 and fresh- • Two large glue sticks man Mark Viviano placing 6th at 189. Also • One box of Ziploc™ style plastic bags – gallon size returning next year will be two-time Section 4 • One pocket folder for Friday Folder use Champion Wayne Cirigliano, who finished 6th • Change of clothing (warm and cold weather) to be left in school and will be looking to return to the top, and brother Optional items: A donation of one of the following items for our Justin Cirigliano, who came in 5th after taking classroom would be appreciated, but is not necessary. 4th in 2009. • Paper plates: economy style is perfect! Boys’ & Girls’ Bowling • Markers: washable preferred Coach Kim Nutting First Grade This year the Bowling Team worked hard. Even • A pair of scissors (Fiskars™ work best) though it was a tough season for both teams, the • Glue (8 oz. bottle please) individuals worked together to do their best. Both • Two boxes of crayons: one for the beginning of the year, and one teams approached each game as another chance at for later winning instead of being discouraged. • A package of 12 pencils, to be distributed as needed For the Boys’ Team, there was tough competi- • A folder with pockets for weekly homework tion and we competed against some great bowlers. • A box of tissues Even though they finished their season without a Optional Items: win, they still remained positive and had a great • Napkins: these are especially needed since we use them every outlook. They gave their best every game and day for snack worked hard. They won the sportsmanship award at • Ziploc™ style plastic bags (pint and quart sizes) the end of the year MAC league awards ceremony, Second Grade and other teams in the league voted them as having • Eight pocket folders with double pockets, different colors the best sportsmanship. This truly says a lot about • One pencil case our boys as a team. • Two boxes of #2 pencils (sharpened) The Girls’ Team ended their season with a 3-7 • Two large pink erasers record. There were some new faces on the team • One pair of scissors this year and they made great improvements in • Four glue sticks or two glue bottles their game by the end of the season. They worked • One box of 24 or 48 crayons and/or one box of 12 colored pencils hard as a team and supported and encouraged each • One box of tissues other, which helped make them unified. Melinda • One box of Ziploc™ style bags or one pack of paper lunch bags Bradtke was the sixth best female bowler in our • One pair of sneakers to be left at school for P.E. MAC league, which is a great accomplishment. • One sweater or sweatshirt to be left in school for chilly mornings Overall, the season went well, and even though Please do not send in markers. they may not have earned great scores, each person enjoyed being on the team, worked hard, Third Grade ™ and challenged themselves personally to strive for • Ten pocket folders. Please, NO Trapper Keepers their best. I want to thank all of the bowlers for • Wide-ruled loose leaf paper, 1-2 packages continuing to work hard throughout the season and • Sharpened pencils, a minimum of forty being great representatives of the Afton Bowling • One box of 16-24 crayons program. • Two boxes of 12 colored pencils —Ms. Cathy Decker • Three large boxes of tissues

28 • Pencil box for the desk to store pencils and crayons Ms. Humphrey’s Art Class • Composition book, black and white type—not spiral • Will need a glass-like container. Ms. Humphrey will • One box of Ziploc™ style bags (quart size) explain more on the first day of school. The container • Scissors will not be needed until a few weeks into the quarter. • Glue bottle and glue stick Seventh and Eighth Grade • Dictionary at home for his/her own use • Math and Science Notes: one-3 subject spiral notebook Fourth Grade • ELA and Social Studies: one-1½-2 inch, 3-ring binder • Four—one subject, 70 page, spiral writing journals • Math and Science: one-1 inch, 3-ring binder • One Trapper Keeper™ • Technology/Home and Careers (7th grade): one-1 inch, • Seven two-pocket folders 3-ring binder • Wide-ruled loose leaf paper • Foreign Language (8th grade): one-1 inch, 3-ring binder • One box of sharpened pencils—not mechanical • Eleven dividers for binders • One box of 24 colored pencils • Highlighters (set of three different colors) • Erasers • Post-it™ note pads • Pencil sharpener • Index cards • Scissors • Graph paper • Two highlighters—YELLOW only • Large book cover Please NO Mechanical pencils, tape, pens or crayons • 12-inch ruler with centimeters also ™ Fifth Grade • Scientific calculator—any Texas Instruments TI 34-II, • Pencils TI 30x IIs, or TI 30xs multi-view models • One-1½ inch binder • Two packages of blue/black ink pens • Binder pouch for pencils • Two packages of #2 pencils • Wide-ruled loose leaf paper • Colored pencils • One heavy duty folder for homework • Jump drive (for students with home computers) • Pink block erasers • Loose leaf paper • Four dividers for binder—must have holes • Folders—blue, yellow, green, purple and red • One or two composition books Mr. Luttinger—Band Middle School • #2 pencils Sixth Grade Physical Education—Boys • Binders: • Sneakers that tie The student can choose which method works best for • Extra socks them: One large binder/Trapper Keeper™ for all subjects • Gym shorts with multiple dividers. The type that zips is recom- • T-shirts mended so that papers don’t fall out; or one, 1 inch 3-ring • Deodorant binder, per subject; or two 1-2 inch 3-ring binders for • Swimsuit and towel morning/afternoon classes. • Sweatshirt for outside • Pencils (students are not to use pen for any core class) Physical Education—Girls • Dividers • Sneakers that tie • Loose leaf paper • Extra socks • Two highlighters • Mid-thigh gym shorts • 12 or 15 pack of colored pencils • T-shirts (no low cut t’s) • 3-ring pencil holder that fits into binder • Deodorant • Jump drive/flash drive (ELA and Science) • Hair ties (for long hair) • One package of 3x5 index cards (ELA) • One-piece swimsuit and towel • Dictionary for at home use • Sweatshirt for outside Home and Careers High School • One-1 inch, 3-ring binder, two tab/dividers Mrs. Chilson—French • 25 sheets of loose leaf paper • One-2 inch, 3-ring binder • Pens • Loose leaf paper • Pencils • Pens and pencil • Small spiral notebook

29 Mrs. Crissell—Social Studies • Pens and pencils • Two-3 inch, 3-ring binders • Highlighter • Single subject spiral notebook • 3-Ring pencil case • Five dividers Advanced Biology • Loose leaf paper • One-2 inch, 3-ring binder • Blue/black pens • Five dividers with tabs • Highlighters • Loose leaf paper Mr. Dancesia—Science • Pens and pencils • Pens • 3-Ring pencil case • Pencils • One set of colored pencils • Four function or scientific calculator (not graphing) Mrs. Page & Mrs. Petroski—Math • 3-ring binder and loose leaf paper For ALL Math Courses Mrs. Davis—English • A Texas Instruments™ graphing calculator is preferred, • One-1½-2 inch, 3-ring binder model TI-84. If this is not possible, must have a Texas • Loose leaf paper Instruments scientific calculator, models: TI 34-II, • Four (or more) dividers for notebook TI 30x IIs, or TI 30xs multi-view™. • 80-page spiral notebook • Pens and pencils For Integrated Algebra I, Integrated Algebra II, Applied Geometry, Geometry, Mrs. DeLarco—English and Algebra II Trigonometry • One-2 inch, 3-ring binder • One-2 inch, 3-ring binder • Three dividers • Loose leaf paper • Loose leaf paper • Pencils • Blue or black pens • Pencil top erasers • One 1-subject spiral bound notebook • Pencil case Mr. Garlitz—Business • 3-subject spiral notebook • One 1-2 inch 3-ring binder • Also recommended: dividers, colored pencils, ruler and • One Hi-8 video tape for Communications Class graph paper Mr. Higby—Studio Art For Pre-Calculus and Calculus • Standard 50 sheet 9”x12” drawing book or sketchbook • Two 5-subject notebooks • One dozen #2 pencils • Pencils Ms. Livingston—Science • Erasers • One or two-2 inch, 3-ring binders • Pencil case • Loose leaf paper (no spiral notebooks) • Graph paper • Two sets of 3-hole punched dividers Mr. Pratt—English • One-3-ring binder pencil pouch • One notebook • Two-#2 pencils or mechanical pencils, one eraser • Pencils • Four black or blue ball-point pens • Pens (not red) • Scientific calculator (recommended) • One pack of 3x5 index cards Mr. Luttinger—Band Mrs. Westover—Music • #2 pencils • # 2 pencils Mr. MacNaught—Social Studies • Highlighter • Notebook Mrs. Wheeler—Health • Black or blue ink pens • One-2 pocket folder • One-3-ring binder Physical Education—Boys Ms. McElhinny—Science • Sneakers that tie Biology • Extra socks • One-2 inch, 3-ring binder • Gym shorts • Five dividers with tabs • T-shirts • Loose leaf paper • Deodorant

30 • Swimsuit and towel • Sweatshirt for outside 10 Tips to Keep Physical Education—Girls Feelin’ Frazzled? You Cool, Calm • Sneakers that tie Totally Tense? and Collected • Extra socks • Mid-thigh gym shorts Under Pressure? • T-shirts (not low cut t’s) • Deodorant Put your body in motion • Hair ties (for long hair) Physical activity is one of the most important ways to keep stress away by • One-piece swimsuit and towel clearing your head and lifting your spirits. Physical activity also increases endorphin levels—the natural “feel-good” chemicals in the body which leave • Sweatshirt for outside you with a happy feeling. It’s important to get up, get out, and get moving! Fuel up Eating breakfast will give you the energy you need to tackle the day. Eating regular meals and taking time to enjoy them will make you feel better too. Don’t be fooled by the jolt of energy you get from sodas and sugary snacks— this only lasts a short time and once it wears off, you may feel sluggish and Shades Are Cool. more tired than usual. ChooseChoose YYourour CCovoverer And they protect your Sunscreenplaying Scoop ey Moms and Dads! Not all sun Laugh 4. Sunscreen may be easy, but it doesn’t protect 4.child’s eyes from UV rays, which can lead protection comes in a bottle. There Everyone has those days when they do something really silly or stupid— your child’s skin completely. Try combining HH to cataracts later in life. Look for sunglasses instead of getting upset with yourself, laugh out loud! No one’s perfect! Life are lots of ways to protect your child’s should be about having fun, so, lighten up! that wrap around and block as close to 100% of sunscreen with other “Choose Your Cover” skin all year long. Here are five you can try. options to prevent UV damage. both UVA and UVB rays as possible. Have fun with friends Hide and Seek. UV rays are Sunscreen comes in a variety of forms – lotions, Being with people you like is always a good way to ditch your stress. Friends Rub on Sunscreen. Use sunscreen with strongest and most harmful can help you work through your problems and let you see the brighter side sprays, wipes or gels. Be sure to choose one of things. 1.1. at least SPF 15 and UVA/UVB pro- during midday, so it’s best to plan 5. made especially for kids with: 5.tection every time your child goes out- indoor activities then. If this is not Spill to someone you trust side. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher Talk to someone you trust or respect about what’s bothering you. Talking out possible, seek shade under a tree, an umbrella • both UVA and UVB protection your problems and seeing them from a different view might help you figure or a pop-up tent. Use these options to prevent • out ways to deal with them. Just remember, you don’t have to go it alone! sunburn, not to seek relief once it’s happened. For most effective protection, apply sunscreen Take time to chill generously 30 minutes before going outdoors. Stress can sometimes make you feel like a tight rubber band—stretched to Cover ‘em Up. Clothing that covers your And, don’t forget to protect ears, noses, lips and the limit! If this happens, take a few deep breaths to help yourself unwind. 22.. child’s skin helps protect against UV rays. the tops of feet which often go unprotected. Catch some zzzzz... Although a long-sleeved shirt and long pants with Take sunscreen with you to reapply during the When you’re overtired, a problem may seem much bigger than it actually is. a tight weave are best, they aren’t always Sleep is a big deal! Getting the right amount of sleep is important. Because day, especially after your child swims or your body (and mind) is changing and developing, it requires more sleep to practical. A T-shirt, long shorts or a exercises. This applies to “waterproof” and re-charge for the next day. So don’t resist, hit the hay! beach cover-up are good choices, too – “water resistant” products as well. Keep a journal but it’s wise to double up on protection by If you’re having one of those crazy days when nothing goes right, it’s a good Keep in mind, sunscreen is not meant to allow applying sunscreen or keeping your child in idea to write things down in a journal to get it off your chest —like how you your kids to spend more time in the sun than they feel, what’s going on in your life and things you’d like to accomplish. the shade when possible. Warning: would otherwise. Sunscreen reduces Get it together Get a Hat. Hats that shade the face, scalp, damage from UV radiation, it doesn’t eliminate it. Too much to do but not enough time? Forgot your homework? Feeling over- ears and neck are easy to use and give Even a few serious The American Academy of Pediatrics now advises whelmed or discombobulated? Getting everything done can be a challenge, 3.3. but all you have to do is plan a little and get organized. great protection. Baseball caps are popular sunburns can that sunscreen use on babies less than 6 months among kids but they don’t protect their ears and increase your child’s old is not harmful on small areas of a baby’s skin, Lend a hand neck. If your child chooses a cap, be sure to pro- such as the face and back of the hands. But your Get involved in an activity that helps others. It’s almost impossible to feel stressed out when you’re helping someone else. Signing up for a public tect exposed areas with sunscreen. risk of ge€ing baby’s best defense against sunburn is avoiding service project is a good idea, but helping others is as easy as saying hello, the sun or staying in the shade. holding a door or volunteering to keep a neighbor’s pet. The feeling you will skin cancer. get from helping others is greater than you can imagine! Protect the Skin ey’re In Resource: CDC, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30333, U.S.A. www.bam.gov

31 AFTON CENTRAL SCHOOL 29 Academy Street, P.O. Box 5 Non-Profit Org. Afton, New York 13730 U.S. Postage P A I D Permit No. 16 Afton, NY 13730 DCMO BOCES Printing Service

NEWS OF THE SCHOOL Current Resident or ECRWSS Boxholder

Fifth Graders Visit Coming Soon . . . Lackawanna Coal Mine Afton CSD Website, Revamped The fifth grade book club members took a field trip to The 2010-2011 school year will bring about many new the Lackawanna Coal Mine as an extension of their last and exciting opportunities. One of these opportunities reading. The book read, Danger at the Breaker by Catherine includes access to a new District Website, www.aftoncsd. Welch, tells the story of Andrew, a young boy who must org. The purpose of the web site is to establish a central leave school at the age of eight to begin his working life at access point in which users will find all information regard- a coal mine. As the students walked along a cold, damp, ing the school district. This site will include current school mine shaft, over 200 feet below ground, they got a small news and announcements, a central calendar with upcom- taste of what awaited Andrew. It was both a fun and an ing activities and events, a showcase of student achieve- informative day! ments, and access to classroom resources, all of which will —Ms. Leslie McGraw strengthen the bond between the administration, students, staff, parents and the community. Please take a few minutes to check out our site, available September 2010! —Mrs. Stacy Huyck

Fall Sports Practice Schedule

JV and Varsity Practice starts August 16, 2010 Time: TBA

Maya Kenyon, Anne Marie Ingraham, Conner Modified Practice starts Humphrey, Troy Mercilliott, Michael Graven-Briggs, August 30, 2010 Raeanne Baker, Rachel Curtis, Taylor Williams, Amelia Time: TBA Reuter, Jessica Zurenda