Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 2/13/2018
Place : SASCS High School
The regular meeting was called to order at 7.00pm. The board reserves the right to act on any and all agenda items.
Open Public Meeting Act Statement
This meeting has been publicized in accordance with the requirements of the
New York State Open Meetings Law (OML) and notification given to all appropriate parties. The notice of this meeting was posted on the school website.
Others present at the meeting:
II. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 12/12/2017
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of $500 payment for grade chairs and mentors at SANY schools
3. Approval of teacher referral bonus policy
4. Approval of updated employee handbook
5. Approval of renewal of waste management service contract
6. Approval of RFP for SAS middle school IT structuring project
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
IV. Executive Session
Motion to adjourn to Executive Session in accordance with the New York State Open Meeting Law §105, to discuss topics such as personnel matters, attorney-client privilege matters, pending litigation, negotiations and other such related matters.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
Please Note: The matters discussed will be made public if and when the circumstances requiring confidentiality no longer exist; however, it is not presently known when such circumstances will exist.
V. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: All schools financial summaries were reviewed and discussed.
2. Internal audit report: Cash disbursement, invoices, payroll, and fingerprint audits were performed and report was shared with board.
3. Paid Family Leave Act (PFLA) presentation: Attorney’s memorandum on PFLA issues has been discussed. The main issue is whether employee of the charter schools are public or private employees. This determination change the application of PFLA regarding Worker’s Compensation. School is waiting for a response from Worker Compensation Board regarding the issue. The school’s attorney suggests that we should be considered as public and as our employees.
4. Utica Academy of Science charter renewal approval with K-5 expansion: The school received 5 year renewal and K-5 expansion. The school will work on the implementation of the K-1 grades for next year in the existing buildings, and will start looking for building expansions for the following year. The school started to accept applications for the new grades.
5. Comptroller report: The comptroller report recommendations are regarding purchase vs rental analysis for future buildings. The comptroller report had few discrepancies regarding the calculations of the actual cost of purchasing and renovations of the building, such as interest rate for the renovations, which is around $2.7million. In addition, they assumed that UAS had the cash for the purchase and renovations for the building; however UAS was a single entity at the time when the school building was needed for additional growth.
6. Utica case dismissal: The judge dismissed a case brought by former employee who was terminated due to poor performance. However, the employee had other claims against school, however judge dismissed the case without prejudice.
7. Board retreat meeting agenda and schedule: Doodle will be sent to board members to schedule the meeting.
8. SAS middle school IT upgrade project:
Middle School construction changed some rooms and added number of new rooms. Those additions also require Technology additions. In order to provide phone, internet connection, public announcement and camera surveillance to the building we prepared an IT project. The project includes extending current WiFi, wired data network, cameras, and phone system to 1st Floor new classroom locations as well as some existing locations. Also includes a building wide PA system. Challenge of this project is the amount of wiring required and integration of new and existing systems.
Cat6 Wiring Throughout the Building Back to IT Room 202a :
-(13) Wireless Access Point locations
-(21) Data Connection locations
-(22) Phone System locations
-(17) Security Camera locations
PA Speaker Wiring Throughout the Building Back to Room 206 :
-(44) Speaker locations
Other Items:
- New floor post data rack in room 202a
- Complete PA System with (44) speakers
- (13) WAPs
- (22) Telephone sets
- (17) Security cameras
- Server for Security Camera System
- (2) Network Switches
- All required licenses
- Installation and configuration
Note:
Numbers can change +/-.
Not a comprehensive list of items/services.
9. 2017-18 Fall staff survey results: postponed for next meeting
10. Monthly academic data presentation: Monthly STAR reading and math results were reviewed and discussed for all schools. SAS shared data for high school grades as well. The growth as well as projections in comparison to last years scores were discussed. School take additional measures for grades and classrooms where scores are below than expected.
11. SAS elementary school construction update: It is completed and waiting for a permit from the city in order to utilize the office space. Offices will move during the break next week after city approval.
12. Re-scheduling March board meeting: March 22nd Thursday is the new schedule and will take place at Utica school and board will attend the teacher/staff retreat after the meeting.
VII. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
1. During the week of December 3rd, 2017, SAS first-graders made a planned visit to Hospital Land at The Marley Center (Crouse Hospital Affiliation). Students had a chance to role play being nurses, caregivers and patients, in a gentle approach to introducing hospital services to young children.
2. On Monday, December 4th, ELA teachers took a group of 28 8th graders to see a performance of Encore - a compilation of short stories and poems they had read including, "The Tell Tale Heart," "The Raven," "The Monkey's Paw," "The Necklace, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"- at the Rochester Auditorium.
3. On Thursday, December 7th, 2017, SAS high school had Junior College Night.
4. On Tuesday, December 19th, 2017, SAS second graders went to WonderWorks.
5. On Wednesday, December 20th, 2017, SAS Elementary held student award ceremony for Kindergarten through second grade students.
6. On Thursday, December 21st, 2017, SAS Elementary held student award ceremony for third and fourth grade students.
7. On Thursday, January 4th, 2018, Bricks4Kidz Corporation visited SAS Elementary.
8. On Wednesday, January 10th, 2018, SAS Elementary students had a lesson on the culture of Africa through dance, drum, and stories.
9. On Friday, January 12th, 2018, Chartwells, catering company for Syracuse schools, gave out gloves to our students at SAS Elementary.
10. On Thursday, January 25th, 2018, SAS Elementary school students had Winter Concert at the middle school.
11. On Tuesday, January 30th, 2018, SAS Elementary held student award ceremony for Kindergarten through second grade students.
12. On Wednesday , January 31st, 2018, SAS Elementary held student award ceremony for third and fourth grade students.
13. On Tuesday, February 6th, 2018, a group of staff, parents, and students from the SAS family went to Albany for the NYS Charter School Advocacy Day.
14. On Thursday, February 8th, 2018, SAS High school held student award ceremony.
SAS Citizenship
1. On Monday, December 18th, 2017, SAS Citizenship held student award ceremony for Kindergarten students.
2. On Tuesday, December 19th, 2017, SAS Citizenship held student award ceremony for first and second grade students.
3. On Monday, January 29th, 2018, SAS Citizenship held student award ceremony for Kindergarten students.
On Tuesday, January 30th, 2018, SAS Citizenship held student award ceremony for first and second grade students.
1. On Thursday, December 7th, 2017, Doneilous King from SUNY POLY spoke with UAS Seniors.
2. On Monday, December 11th, 2017, UAS scholars had the opportunity to meet and speak to a representative from Nazareth College today during their lunch hour.
3. On Monday, December 11th, 2017, UAS High school scholars kicked off the annual toy and food drive.
4. On Friday, December 15th, 2017, UAS scholars took a trip to MOST Science Museum in Syracuse.
5. On Saturday, December 16, 2017, UAS seniors toured and learned about New York State Education Building in Albany, NY.
6. On Friday, January 12th, 2018, Sandra Fentiman visited our school and talked to our scholars. Sandra Fentiman has a background in print journalism, having been a staff writer and editor at daily newspapers the Keene (NH) Sentinel, the (Oneonta, NY) Daily Star, and at the (Utica, NY) Observer-Dispatch.
On Thursday, January 18, 2018 Utica Academy of Science students toured Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, NY.
On Saturday, January 20th, 2018, 59 scholars attended Saturday School Tutoring at UAS Middle School.
On Tuesday, January 23rd, 2018, Utica Academy of Science received its first 5 years expansion along with elementary extension from NYS Board of Regents.
On Monday, January 29th, 2018, Eat Smart NY / Cornell Cooperative Extension, Function Better Physical Therapy, Center for Family Life and Recovery, Utica City Police Department, Kids Oneida, Accelerate Sports, and Rescue Mission of Utica gave presentations to our middle school scholars during Healthy Habits Day.
On Saturday, February 3rd, 2018, 53 scholars attended Saturday School Tutoring at UAS Middle School.
On Monday, February 5, 2018, our UAS Juniors and Seniors started internship/shadowing at St. Elizabeth Family Medical Center.
On Tuesday, February 6th, 2018, UAS went to Albany, NY to be part of the NYS Charter School Advocacy Day. UAS Atoms visited and talked to Assemblyman Brindisi and Senator Griffo.
On Wednesday, February 7th, 2018, UAS juniors went to University of Albany.
On Friday, February 9th, 2018, Utica Academy of Science UAS high school had an award ceremony for grades 8-12.
On Friday, February 9th, 2018, President & CEO at WCNY Robert Daino visited Utica Academy of Science high school.
On Friday, February 9th, 2018, Utica Academy of Science Middle School held its Second Quarter Award Ceremony.
On Saturday, February 10th, 2018, 60 scholars attended Saturday School Tutoring at UAS Middle School. Hamilton College students also joined the teachers to support UAS scholars’ learning.
VIII. Public Comment on Any Agenda Item
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda item.
Each person is limited to speak for a period of one (1) minute and will be asked to give their full name, spell their last name and provide their address.
Board President or designee closes the public comment session on any topic.
IX. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9.02 pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 3/22/2018
Place : UASCS Middle School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 5.15 pm. The board reserves the right to act on any and all agenda items.
Open Public Meeting Act Statement
This meeting has been publicized in accordance with the requirements of the
New York State Open Meetings Law (OML) and notification given to all appropriate parties. The notice of this meeting was posted on the school website.
II. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 2/13/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of Saving Account for SANY per Investment Policy
3. Approvals of 3rd Party agreement with Pathfinder Bank
4. Approval of closing insurance bank accounts for SAS and UAS
5. Approval of budget revisions for SAS, SASC, and UAS
6. Approval of library project at SASC
7. Approval of college tuition reimbursement policy for SAS students
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IV. Executive Session
Motion to adjourn to Executive Session in accordance with the New York State Open Meeting Law §105, to discuss topics such as personnel matters, attorney-client privilege matters, pending litigation, negotiations and other such related matters.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Please Note: The matters discussed will be made public if and when the circumstances requiring confidentiality no longer exist; however, it is not presently known when such circumstances will exist.
V. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Financial summaries and budget revisions were discussed. The changes in line items in budget due to structural merge were pointed. All schools should close the fiscal year with surplus.
2. Internal audit report: Internal audit report was shared and discussed. There were minor issues, which were corrected before processed.
3. Monthly academic data presentation: SAS, SASC, and UAs monthly Start assessment results and suspension rates for each grade and school has been presented and discussed. School leaders share their intervention plans for grades where scores are low.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
1. On Tuesday, February 13th, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its 2nd Quarter Award Ceremony. This is a special event in that staff and students get to celebrate a wide range of accomplishments. Awards including Best Academic, Best Citizen, Student of the Month, and Most Improved were given to deserving students.
2. On Friday, February 16th, 2018, SAS Middle School held activity stations in honor of Black History Month! Students wrote out "I have a dream" clouds, listened to informational videos, did a gallery walk, filled out scavenger hunts, took pictures at the photo booth, did matching games and colleges and played "Spike Ball."
3. On Friday, February 16th, 2018, fourth-grade students competed in their school science fair. Today the winners were announced at the Student-of-the-Month ceremony. Projects were judged by staff and technology professionals from SUNY ESF and The Tech Garden.
4. Throughout the week of February 26th, 2018, SASCS Elementary School celebrated Read Across America and Dr. Seuss' birthday. Students were very creative with their silly socks, wacky-hair day and funny-hat day.
5. On Tuesday, February 27th, 2018, Jada Williams, Aliyah Elliot-Felder and Makaylee Davis represented #SASCS at the English Speaker's Union Shakespeare workshop at Syracuse Stage.
6. On Wednesday, February 28th, 2018, the 3rd and 4th grades held their Student-of-the-Month ceremony.
On Thursday, March 1st, 2018, kindergarteners took an exciting trip to the MOST, where they got to experience the Paleo Story of Life exhibit.
On Thursday, March 1st, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science earned program's first girls basketball sectional title. Congrats Lady Atoms.
9. On Monday, March 5th, 2018, students in the middle school participated in Read Across America to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ (belated) birthday!
10. On Tuesday, March 6th, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its February Student of the Month ceremony.
11. SASCS High School is hosting a month-long series to celebrate Women's History Month. Each week, women in leadership positions will be highlighted. This week we welcomed Gina Iliev, Planned Parenthood Health Equity Coalition Coordinator, and Sally Curran, Executive Director from Volunteer Lawyers Project.
12. On Thursday, March 8th, 2018, more than 80 students explored everyday math with their families at Math Night at Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.
13. On Friday, March 9th, 2018, after celebrating Dr. Seuss' birthday in a week-long Read Across America event, students who participated in a reading challenge at SAS Elementary School were recognized and rewarded with certificates and medals at an assembly.
14. On Friday, March 9th, 2018, students enjoyed a well-deserved treat for their positive behavior. They earned themselves an ice cream social at the end of the day on Friday.
15. On Friday, March 9th, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its 1st Science and Academic Fair.
16. On Saturday, March 10th, 2018, SAS Varsity Girls Basketball team defeated Bainbridge-Guilford 62-57 and became the Regional Champions and advanced to the NY State Finals.
17. On Monday, March 12th, 2018 the 5th grade students of the SAS Middle School welcomed students from SUNY ESF.
18. On Tuesday, March 13th, 2018, as we continue to celebrate Women's History Month here at SAS we are visited by two women, Ms. Rosie Taravella from the Red Cross and Ms. Jennifer Sanders, from News Channel 9. Both women have shown us how their leadership skills has allowed them to succeed in their industry, while still giving back to the community.
19. On Wednesday, March 14th, 2018 the SAS Middle School held its finale to the Read Across America Festivities. The class that put the most time into the DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) practice gained the ability to tape our wonderful Miss Robinson to the wall to celebrate their hard work.
20. On Thursday, March 15th, 2018, 10th and 11th grade students participated in the National College Fair at Onondaga Community College, close to 200 colleges, universities and other opportunities for post-high school learning were in attendance.
21. On Friday, March 16th, 2018 the SAS Middle School welcomed an Irish Dance School to our building. The students were treated to a performance from the Rince Na Sonas School of Irish Dance.
22. On Friday, March 16th, 2018, the Syracuse Academy of Science held off Allegany-Limestone, 55-50, in a Class C girls basketball state semifinal at Hudson Valley Community College.
23. On Saturday, March 17th, 2018, the SAS Varsity Girls Basketball team lost the final game of Class C tournament to Millbrook. Final score was 67-64.
24. On Wednesday, March 21st, 2018, six leaders from the education department in Saudi Arabia came to visit the elementary school.
SAS Citizenship
1. On Wednesday, February 14th, 2018, #UASCS visited Assured Information Security (AIS) in Rome, NY and learned about cyber security, engineering and drones. During the summer UAS Atoms will have an opportunity to do summer internship at Assured Information Security.
2. On Thursday, February 15th, 2018, UAS Atoms celebrated Black History Month at Utica Academy of Science High School.
3. On Friday, February 16th, 2018, Utica Academy of Science had its Winter Ball Dance. Over sixty UAS Atoms scholars, teachers and administrators attended and enjoyed the great food, music, and dance.
4. On Friday, February 16th, 2018, UAS Atoms won the Section D Basketball game against New York Mills. Final score was #UASCS 65 - NY Mills 58.
5. On Thursday, February 22nd, 2018, Utica Academy of Science held an open house at the middle school for prospect parents and students.
6. On Thursday, March 1, 2018, Utica Academy of Science held its second blood drive event at high school library with the help of Red Cross; UASCS helped 51 hospital patient. 17 units of blood donations have been collected. 11 of the 17 donors were first time donor.
7. On Saturday, February 22nd, 2017, Utica Academy of Science held an open house at the middle school for prospect parents and students.
8. On Sunday, February 25th, 2018, Utica Academy was invited to attend at Dominican Republic Independence day event in Utica NY. Mrs. Grabovica attended and used this as an opportunity to do outreach and talk to Hispanic/Latino population about UASCS and how to become UAS Atoms.
9. On Tuesday, March 13th, Tuesday, 2018, Utica Academy of Science held first annual College Fair in the high school gym.
10. On Thursday, March 15th, 2018, Utica Academy of Science scholars participated in the National College Fair at Onondaga Community College, close to 200 colleges, universities and other opportunities for post-high school learning were in attendance.
11. On Saturday, March 17th, 2018, Utica Academy of Science held its 5th Annual Science Fair at the high school.
II. Public Comment on Any Agenda Item
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda item.
Each person is limited to speak for a period of one (1) minute and will be asked to give their full name, spell their last name and provide their address.
Board President or designee closes the public comment session on any topic.
III. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 6.55pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 4/10/2018
Place : SAS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.15 pm. The board reserves the right to act on any and all agenda items.
Open Public Meeting Act Statement
This meeting has been publicized in accordance with the requirements of the
New York State Open Meetings Law (OML) and notification given to all appropriate parties. The notice of this meeting was posted on the school website.
Others present at the meeting:
II. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 3/22/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, UAS, and SASC
2. Approval of Salary Scale for SAS, UAS, and SASC for 2018-19 school year
3. Approval of STEM Teacher Fellowship agreement
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. 2018-2019 UAS budget first draft
3. Utica Academy Expansion
4. Capital improvement projects for SANY school buildings for 2018-19 school year
5. Internal audit report
6. Student applications
7. Board retreat meeting schedule
8. Public Relations
9. Academic directors’ reports
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IV. Executive Session
Motion to adjourn to Executive Session in accordance with the New York State Open Meeting Law §105, to discuss topics such as personnel matters, attorney-client privilege matters, pending litigation, negotiations and other such related matters.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Please Note: The matters discussed will be made public if and when the circumstances requiring confidentiality no longer exist; however, it is not presently known when such circumstances will exist.
V. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Financial status and budgets has been reviewed and discussed. Financial summaries were reviewed.
2. 2018-2019 budget first drafts: Budget draft has been reviewed. Increases in medical expenses has been discussed. Most staff is using our medical plan and there was a 12% increase. The school made the budget for 96% full capacity, therefore school must be additionally careful for retention and recruitment. School has a very low surplus, and school will need funds for the following year as it is expanding and moving into new building. The teacher salary increases has been also discussed within the light of the draft proposed budget.
3. Utica Academy Expansion: Existing two buildings will be sufficient. Existing Frankford location will also serve to K-1 grades. K-1 grades wing will be separate from high school section, and all classrooms will have bathrooms and the school has playground. We are looking for options for following year, however if needed, existing two buildings may be enough for an additional year.
4. Capital improvement projects for SANY school buildings for 2018-2019 school year: Capital improvement plans were discussed. Several projects will be made by landlords based on the lease agreements.
5. Internal audit report: Internal report was discussed by the auditor. Cash disbursements, invoice amounts, HR (salary and benefits), and teacher fingerprints were tested and exceptions were corrected properly by the school. There are no exceptions in fingerprints.
6. Student applications: School applications were reviewed and discussed. All grades at all schools have enough number of applications. As of April 1st, there are almost 1400 applications at all SANY schools. ELL and FRPL student recruitment has been discussed. Also, board discussed to make all SANY school’s enrollment policy have ELL priority during admissions. School will bring a revised enrollment policy and application for all schools in next meeting. Ethnic restaurants and stores should be utilized to advertise school application to ELL populations.
7. Board retreat meeting schedule: April 21st at SAS HS at 9.30 am starting with breakfast.
8. Public Relations: School’s proactive PR needs has been discussed. School is looking for a company with a monthly contract to utilize their expertise for media relations, either crisis or proactive positive news. Board provided feedback that school should work with a company from Syracuse, if available, so they can bring their network.
9. Academic directors’ reports
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
1. Monday, March 19, 2018 was a special day at Syracuse Academy of Science for Lady Atoms Basketball Team. Whole school came together in the morning to celebrate these special student-athletes. The team accomplish a lot this year by winning the girls basketball program`s first Section III, Regional, and State Finalist Titles.
2. On Thursday, March 22, 2018, annual breakfast with our superintendent Dr. Hayali was held at the district office, but this time #SASCS Lady Atoms had special gifts for Dr. Hayali.
3. On Friday, March 23, 2018, the SAS Atoms high school band traveled to Albany, NY to perform as part of the Music in Our Schools Month Festival in the capitol.
4. On Sunday, March 25, 2018, the 39th annual CNY Science and Engineering Fair (#CNYSEF) took place at SRC Arena on the Onondaga Community College campus. Azamat Karimov and Riley Phuc received high honors award and medal in the senior (9-12) division. They also received IEEE Awards in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Wah Hee Dar and Moo Ra Say received Terra Science & Education Award. Jamila Eatman received number of awards and prices.
5. On Sunday, March 25, 2018, several students from SAS Middle School attended the CNY Science and Engineering Fair by MOST Museum at the SRC Arena.
6. On, Monday, March 26, 2018, third-grade students from SAS Elementary School enjoyed a field trip to Cazenovia Sports Bowl.
7. On Monday, March 26, 2018, the middle school kicked off College Week with guest speaker Wes Whiteside from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University.
8. On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, to conclude our speaker series of the female leadership panel, we welcomed Jessica Graham from Infinity Northeast, Inc., Natalie Stetson from the Erie Canal Museum and Maggie Foster of the Mundy branch library.
9. On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, as a kick off to the new partnership, Symphoria came to SAS elementary and presented a small concert. SAS Elementary and Symphoria partner together for an exciting project! In the 2018-2019 school year, students at the SAS elementary will have the opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument.
10. On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, SAS Middle School 7th graders visited the Rochester Institute of Technology RIT). On campus, students took an exploratory tour of several buildings, including, but not limited to, science, business, design, technology and engineering.
11. On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, #SASCS Elementary School had its student of the month ceremony. Our March Student of the Month Character trait was Respect.
12. On Friday, March, 23 and Saturday, March 24, 2018, 30 young ladies from the #SASCS High School grades 8-12 were able to attend Sisters Empowering Sister's Conference which was amazing.
13. On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, the fourth grade #SASAtoms took a field trip to Wonderworks at Destiny USA.
14. On Thursday, March 29, 2018, each class completed a research project on a different country including information about that country's food, location, dance, clothing, and more.
15. Three teams qualified to participate in Science Category of Genius Olympiad in June.
16. Three teams qualified to participate in Genius Zoo Keeper Robotics Category of Genius Olympiad in June.
17. On Thursday, March 29, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its 4th Annual Staff vs. Students Basketball Game.
18. On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, first grade went to Feats of Clay and had a blast choosing their own clay sculpture and being creative with their painting.
19. On Monday, April 9, 2018, SAS Elementary School’s student council is working hard to establish themselves and become a strong voice for the building.
SAS Citizenship
1. On Monday, March 26, 2018 a Student of the Month awards ceremony was held for the Kindergarten students who exhibited the character trait of Respect throughout the month of March.
1. On Monday, March 19, 2018, Mr. Duman and Ms. Beard handed out a card and bouquet of flowers to Ms. Jorgensen, middle school nurse. Ms. Jorgensen is an essential member of our community that contributed a lot with her hard work and amazing interpersonal skills.
2. On Thursday, March 22, 2018, Utica Academy of Science Charter School (UASCS) celebrated its 5th anniversary and the renewal of its charter. Invited guests included teachers, staff, parents and Board of Trustee members, as well as community members and leaders.
3. On Monday, March 26, 2018, Utica Academy of Science Charter School (UASCS) provided its staff with professional development dedicated to building safety and emergency planning.
4. On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, Utica Academy of Science held an information session for parents and students eager to learn about the new elementary school slated to open in the fall of 2018.
5. On Thursday, March 29, 2018, Utica Academy of Science students visited the New York State Museum in Albany, NY. Students enjoyed the opportunity to learn about New York State historical events in an enriching way.
6. On Friday, March 30, 2018, UASCS students visited Hamilton College, enjoying the opportunity to attend on international day, a day in which students from various countries are prominently recognized. Students toured the college and had lunch with college students currently attending Hamilton.
II. Public Comment on Any Agenda Item
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda item.
Each person is limited to speak for a period of one (1) minute and will be asked to give their full name, spell their last name and provide their address.
Board President or designee closes the public comment session on any topic.
III. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9.09 pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 5/8/2018
Place : SAS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.15 pm. The board reserves the right to act on any and all agenda items.
Open Public Meeting Act Statement
This meeting has been publicized in accordance with the requirements of the
New York State Open Meetings Law (OML) and notification given to all appropriate parties. The notice of this meeting was posted on the school website.
Others present at the meeting:
II. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 4/10/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of teacher contract renewals for SAS, SASC, and UAS
3. Approval of AP reimbursement policy for high school students
4. Approval of Admin pay-scale increase for some positions at SANY
5. Approval of UAS elementary dean of school assignment
6. Approval of 2017-18 budget revisions for SAS, UAS and Citizenship
7. Approval of installation of Wi-Fi System wiring, data and phone system wiring, PA system, security camera system for SAS MS
8. Approval of purchasing classroom furniture for UAS ES
9. Approval of fire alarm system upgrade for Citizenship
10. Approval of main entrance construction project for Citizenship
11. Approval of parking lot paving project for SAS HS
12. Approval of Key Bank Accounts Closing for SAS, UAS and Citizenship Bank Account to combine them all under Pathfinder Bank Fund Collateralization Agreement
13. Approval of Chase Bank Accounts Closing for SAS and UAS Bank Accounts to combine them all under Pathfinder Bank Fund Collateralization Agreement
14. Approval of library, cafeteria and old main office construction project for SAS ES
15. Approval of 2018-19 Calendar for SANY Schools
16. Approval of Terra Science and SANY Memorandum of Agreement for SAS MS HVAC Project
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IV. Executive Session
Motion to adjourn to Executive Session in accordance with the New York State Open Meeting Law §105, to discuss topics such as personnel matters, attorney-client privilege matters, pending litigation, negotiations and other such related matters.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Please Note: The matters discussed will be made public if and when the circumstances requiring confidentiality no longer exist; however, it is not presently known when such circumstances will exist.
V. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Budgets and summaries were reviewed and discussed.
2. 2018-19 budgets for SAS, UAS and Citizenship: Budget changes and 2018-19 budgets were discussed based on actuals of this year.
3. Internal audit report: The internal auditor provided his report and talked about cash disbursements, invoices, and payroll/background checks. The exceptions were discussed.
4. 2018-19 CEP Program for Citizenship and SAS: UAS already have the program, and the school would like to provide the same program to SAS and SASC schools. The school will provide the new data and request proposal for CEP program offering for 2018-18 year.
5. 2018-19 Snack program for SANY schools: The school will put an application for a free snack program for all students in SANY. The program will provide the same snack every day to all students and students will not be asked to bring any snack regardless of their financial status, and the school is reimbursed by USDA if the application by USDA.
6. Library project for SAS HS: The school is working on a high school library area within SAS HS building and will bring a proposal.
7. NY state test update: We had 8-10% students opted out in Utica and 2-3% in Syracuse schools. Due to less number of students taking the test, we may not make the AYP by the UAS.
8. Elementary, middle and high school cluster system: Dr. Hayali talked about the cluster meeting structure, which will require ES deans meet among themselves on a weekly basis (as MS deans and HS deans) and all deans will meet together once a month. The goal is to share best practices and programs among similar level schools. Also, this will help creating same programs and look among all schools. Mr Ersoy stated that this will be a good program to share programs and ideas among same grade levels, but differences between Syracuse vs Utica should be considered.
9. Board of trustees candidate: Dr. Coskun Cetinkaya is possible candidate to replace Dr Ay who would like to leave the board in August due to relocation. Dr. Cetinkaya is a faculty member at SUNY Poly and lives close to Utica location, and has charter school board membership experiences. We are reporting member attendance to NYSED last two years and board attendance to board meeting is important and key feature to stay as involved with the school and the board. In order to function more effectively, board members should attend board meetings on a monthly basis.
10. Board retreat meeting notes: Dr. Damkaci provided the summary of the strategic meeting notes and action plan based on the topics discussed. Some of the items will be brought to the board for approval. For expansion, the school will work on data on multiple cities and will consult to NYSED charter office.
11. Monthly academic data presentation
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
1. On Wednesday, April 11th, 2018, students were overjoyed to receive encouragement from their buddy classrooms leading up to testing this week.
2. On Thursday, April 12th, 2018, our chapter of National Honor Society inducted new members with a ceremony indicating the continuing emphasis on excellence that we represent for our school and community.
3. On Thursday, April 12th, 2018, the first graders spent the day at WonderWorks at Destiny USA.
4. On Tuesday, April 17th 2018, the SAS Middle School held its 3rd quarter award ceremony.
5. On Wednesday, April 18th, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary awarded a student from every grade level who displayed perseverance.
6. On Friday April 20th, 2018, 4th grade took a field trip to Painting With a Twist in Dewitt.
7. On Friday, April 20, 2018, SAS high school, lead into the school break with a talent show and student olympics.
8. On Sunday, April 29th 2018, students from the SAS Middle School traveled to Cornell University to attend the Girls in Math competition.
9. On Tuesday, May 1st, 2018, SAS first graders participated in a cooking with kids field trip at the Dewitt Wegmans.
10. On Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018, SAS High School held Spring Music Concert and Art Show.
SAS Citizenship
1. On Monday, April 9th, 2018, families were invited to join us as the school for a Literacy Night.
2. On Tuesday, April 17th, 2018, the Kindergarten classes went to the Ithaca Sciencenter to learn about ocean animals.
3. On Wednesday, April 18th, 2018, the first grade classes went to the Ithaca Sciencenter to learn about ocean animals.
4. On Wednesday, April 18th, 2018, the Kindergarten classes were visited by the SPCA of Syracuse.
1. On Saturday, March 24th, 2018, Utica College hosted the 40th Annual Regional Science Fair. UASCS Scholars participated with eight projects in this important event.
2. On Tuesday, April 10th, 2018, UASCS scholars and teachers prepared motivational messages written in chalk wishing success to our scholars for the NYS ELA test.
3. On Wednesday, April 18th, 2018, ELL students, Ms. Dowling and Mrs. Grabovica visited Federal Building in Utica to attend at the U.S Citizenship ceremony.
4. On Friday, April 20th, 2018, students at Utica Academy of Science, participated in the National School Walkout commemorating the 19th Anniversary of the Columbine tragedy.
II. Public Comment on Any Agenda Item
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda item.
Each person is limited to speak for a period of one (1) minute and will be asked to give their full name, spell their last name and provide their address.
Board President or designee closes the public comment session on any topic.
III. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 10.33pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 6/5/2018
Place : SAS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at . The board reserves the right to act on any and all agenda items.
Open Public Meeting Act Statement
This meeting has been publicized in accordance with the requirements of the
New York State Open Meetings Law (OML) and notification given to all appropriate parties. The notice of this meeting was posted on the school website.
Others present at the meeting:
II. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 5/8/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of contract renewals for SAS, SASC, and UAS
3. Approval of Admin pay-scale increase for some positions at SANY
4. Approval of 2018-19 budgets for SAS, UAS and SASC
5. Approval of purchasing classroom furniture for SASC ES
6. Approval of purchasing classroom technology for SASC ES
7. Approval of 2018-19 CEP Program for SAS and SASC
8. Approval of 2018-19 Snack program for SANY schools
9. Approval of 2018-19 General Liability and Workers’ Comp. Policy
10. Approval of main entrance construction project for SASC ES
11. Approval of 2018-19 BoT meeting dates
12. Approval of cyber security assessment
13. Approval of purchase of SANY Activity center
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. Academic directors’ reports
4. 2018-19 student support and academic enrichment grant
5. Admin pay-scale presentation
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IV. Executive Session
Motion to adjourn to Executive Session in accordance with the New York State Open Meeting Law §105, to discuss topics such as personnel matters, attorney-client privilege matters, pending litigation, negotiations and other such related matters.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Please Note: The matters discussed will be made public if and when the circumstances requiring confidentiality no longer exist; however, it is not presently known when such circumstances will exist.
V. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Current student enrollments were discussed for budgeting purposes.
2. Internal audit report: Internal Audit report was discussed by the auditor.
3. 2018-19 student support and academic enrichment grant: $360,000 grant is approved for Utica and SAS Elementary schools for student support and academic enrichments, specifically for improvement with smartboards and chromebooks for individualized education.
4. Admin pay-scale presentation: Superintendent made the following presentation to justify the recent admin payscale changes for dean of schools. Our deans receive the lowest pay among the public school principals with higher expectations.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
1. On Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018 SASCS high school students took a break from Turkish language class to explore Niagara Falls and the city of Toronto in Canada.
2. On Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018 SASCS Sophomores visited Nazareth College in Rochester, New York.
3. On Thursday, May 3rd, 2018 students discussed the important topic of feelings. Mr. Derek from the McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center came and read"Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day" to Ms. Peryea's class.
4. On Tuesday, May 8th, 2018 fifth-grade students from SASCS Middle School visited the Great Law of Peace Center in Liverpool.
5. On Thursday, May 10th, 2018 the fourth-graders took a field trip to The Wild Animal Park in Chittenango. SASAtoms pet and fed animals, such as llamas, deer, goats, giraffes, and even a bull.
6. On Thursday and Friday, May 10th and 11th, 2018, the SASCS Middle and Elementary schools were proud to host their Annual Muffins for Mom events.
7. On Friday, May 11th, 2018, the SASCS High School held its 2nd Annual Language and Culture Festival.
8. On Friday, May 11th, 2018 the SASCS middle school band attended a private Symphoria Rehearsal. Symphoria formed in 2012 as a musician-led cooperative orchestra, one of only two in the United States.
9. On Friday, May 11th, 2018, SASCS middle school held their 3rd Annual International Fair.
10. On Thursday, May 11th, 2018, two members of the United States Intelligence Community talked to SASCS students about their experiences working for the United States Government.
11. On Tuesday, May 15th, 2018, the textbook material came to life for SASAtoms when Marion Blumenthal Lazan, Holocaust survivor, shared her unforgettable memoir of the devastating years she spent in Nazi Germany that shaped her childhood.
12. On Friday, May 18th, 2018 SASCS fourth-graders had the privileged of meeting Vicki Brackens, an entrepreneur and financial analyst within our community.
13. On Friday, May 18th, 2018, SASCS Middle School students were invited to attend the last Teen Center Night event of the school year.
14. On Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018, SASCS juniors visited Le Moyne College. Thank you, Le Moyne College, for graciously hosting members of our SASCS junior class.
15. On Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018, the SAS Middle School held its Dean's List Dinner.
16. On Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018, seventh-grade SASAtoms traveled to the Corning Museum of Glass.
17. On Thursday, May 24th, 2018, the students of SASCS toured the Upstate University Hospital and met with the President, Dr. Laraque-Arena.
18. On Thursday, May 24th, 2018, the SASCS Middle School held its April Student of the Month ceremony.
19. On Tuesday, May 29th, 2018 SASCS third-graders went to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.
20. On Wednesday, May 30th, 2018, our SASAtoms participated in a visit to Syracuse University.
21. On Wednesday, May 30th, 2018, SAS Atoms and their families enjoyed a Luau themed Reading Night.
22. On Thursday, May 31st, 2018, Lyrik Jackson and Diamonne Harris were named members of the 2018 all-state teams by the New York State Sportswriters Association.
23. On Thursday, May 31st, 2018, seniors at SASCS took part in our rich tradition of the "Senior Walk."
24. On Thursday, May 31st, 2018, SASCS students who maintained a 3.5 GPA or higher over the course of the marking period were honored at the end of year Dean's List Dinner.
25. On Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, students from the SAS Middle School brought their amazing skills to the MOST Rocket Challenge.
SAS Citizenship
1. Through a grant given by Donate to Give, the first graders at SASCCS have been working very hard making comfortable blankets and toys to donate to the dogs at Helping Hounds Dog Rescue.
2. On Monday, May 7th, 2018, the Kindergarten classes at SASCCS went on an exciting trip to the Chittenango Wild Animal Park. Students had fun learning about the different animals and feeding the giraffes.
3. Our SASCCS First-graders are taking the literary world by storm. This winter, the first-graders in Ms. Eisenson's and Ms. Diorio's class worked very hard to write their own book.
4. On Thursday, May 17th, 2018, SASCAtoms brought their families to our first Scholastic Book Fair and a night filled with literacy. They participated in literacy activities associated with authors such as Dr. Suess, Eric Carle, and Leo Lionni.
5. On Monday, May 21st, 2018 SASCCS first-graders visited The Wild Animal Park in Chittenango and got up close and personal with exotic animals.
6. On Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018, SASCCS introduced a new student in Ms. Eisenson and Ms. Diorio’s first-grade class.
7. On Friday, May 25th, 2018, SASCCS second-graders went on an exciting trip to the Wild Animal Park in Chittenango to observe animals and wildlife in their unique habitats.
8. On Tuesday, May 29th, 2018, members of the Syracuse Fire Department visited each classroom to discuss fire safety with the students.
1. On Friday, May 4th, 2018, UASCS had their first prom at Daniele's Banquet Specialists in New Hartford.
2. On Friday, May 4th, 2018, the 3rd Quarter Award Ceremony took the place at UASCS MS.
3. On Saturday, May 5th, 2018, a group of UASCS eighth graders joined math teacher Miss Dundar and Instructional Coach Mrs. Maher for a day-long field trip we called FUN IN THE FINGER LAKES.
4. On Monday, May 7th, 2018, the UASCS Living Environment classes visited The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, New York.
5. On Friday, May 11th, 2018, the UASCS hosted it's 5th Annual International Night at both the UASCS Middle and High School.
6. On Sunday, May 13th, 2018, Our UASAtoms celebrated Mother's Day at the Utica Zoo! In partnership with Gates-Cole Insurance, mothers enjoyed free admission to the zoo.
7. On May 21st, 2018, five UASCS students traveled to Mohawk Valley Community College and attended workshops focused on self-advocacy and job skills training.
8. On Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018 sixth-grade UASAtoms participated in Operation Gratitude.
9. On Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018 #UASCS held it's 1st Annual Career Day.
II. Public Comment on Any Agenda Item
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda item.
Each person is limited to speak for a period of one (1) minute and will be asked to give their full name, spell their last name and provide their address.
Board President or designee closes the public comment session on any topic.
III. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9.15 pm.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously