Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 7/14/2015
Place : UASCS Building
The regular meeting was called to order at 7:05pm. 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 6/2/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires (executive session)
2. Approval of middle school dean hiring (executive session)
3. Approval of Congressional Award Mentorship Program and its payscale
4. Approval of 2015-16 student handbook
5. Approval of 2015-16 personnel handbook
6. Approval of admission policy
7. Approval of closing line of credit with KeyBank
8. Approval of purchase of TV Screens
9. Approval of phone system for administration building
10. Approval of phones for high school building
11. Approval of Superintendent annual review rubric
12. Approval of insurance from Austin and Company
13. Approval of Title I revision
14. Approval of educational Services contract renewal
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Board self-review
3. Superintendent’s report
4. Director’s report
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IV. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: SASCS Financial Dashboard, Month-to-month budget has been reviewed and discussed.
2. Board self-review: Board self review discussion is tabled for next meeting
V. Superintendent’s Report
1. Summer Schools are scheduled between July 6 and July 17. It runs at elementary school building for elementary and middle school students. There is a summer school for 8th grade students at high school.
2. 2 days professional development for directors and school deans were conducted on June 29-30.
3. Letter of Intent to start a new charter school in Syracuse submitted to Board of Regents. SASCS and UASCS will serve as a model school for proposed new charter school with addition of enrollment preference to ELL students. The decision will be made by July 17. The full applications are due on August 13.
4. Summer Institute for teachers is scheduled for August 12-14 for new teachers and August 17-20 for all teachers.
5. 98% graduation rate at June and it will be 100% at August as one student completes its credit requirement.
SASCS Director’s Report
6/8: HS Student/Staff Volleyball Tournament. STAFF TEAM WON!!!!!!
6/10 HS field trip to Ithaca College
6/11: HS Talent Show from 7-9pm. The show had students and staff that participated, with MR Chaloux winning! ES also had talent show as well during the day.
6/17: ES Doughnuts with Dad
6/22: MS and HS Move Up Day! Our 7th graders went to visit the HS to see where they will be for next year!
6/24: HS Graduation was held at the Civic Center this year. IT was a very nice evening to celebrate the accomplishments for the Class of 2015.
ES field trips taken this month:
6/9 ES Field trip to Rosamond Zoo
6/10 ES Field trip to Fingerlakes Live Steamers (Train Museum)
6/11 ES Field trip to Onondaga Court
6/12 ES another field trip to the zoo
6/16 ES another field trip to the zoo
6/18 ES Lime Hollow Nature Center
MS filed trips taken this month:
End of year field trip on 6/15 to Ryder Park
6/16 MS Field trip to WCNY
HS trips taken this month:
End of year field trips taken on June 8:
8th grade: Austin Park in Skaneateles
9th grade: Pratt’s Falls
10th: Onondaga Park
11th: Green Lakes
Tests Held:
Regents June 16-23
VI. 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.
VII. Reconvene Public Session
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VIII. Public Comment on Any Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
IX. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:40pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 8/11/2015
Place: SASCS High School
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.
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 7/14/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires (executive session)
Renewal of Board Member’s term
Approval of enrollment policy
Approval of extension of School Security Contract
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Board self-review
BoT conflict of interest policy:
Enrollment policy discussions
Board membership
Superintendent’s report
Director’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: The budget was briefly reviewed with guidance of CFO.
Board self-review: The board discussed the self-review assessment form of the board. It is decided to keep the board as same. Board members will discuss the self-review in depth at strategic meeting.
Enrollment policy changes: Several changes were made to enrollment policy, first one was to include ELL preference and preference to staff members. Also the language of the policy overall was updated in general.
Board membership: One of the board members requested not to extend his term due to relocation outside of Central New York Area.
BoT conflict of interest policy: Each board member was given school’s conflict of interest and code of ethics policy. The board members were asked to sign and declare any conflict of interest. In addition, policy was reviewed briefly to remind the important sections.
Superintendent’s Report
Summer Schools/PD: Summer institute is underway. The school planned somewhat different program this year. All teachers, especially new teachers, are prepared extensively for the use of technology and programs that the school implementing. Data and the use of data meetings will be held.
Schools readiness for the new school year: All buildings are ready for school opening. Last minute updates are underway. Teachers are preparing their classrooms and curriculum for the year.
ELL & Special Ed. $ FRLP Recruitment efforts: Superintendent talked about all the efforts regarding special focus and recruitment of sub-student groups. This year school will put more emphasis on recruitment of more applications from these subgroups, especially from FRLP and ELL, which are easier to identify and target compare to special education students.
Computer Coding program: The school will offer a computer coding program as part of middle school. One of the teachers is getting training to offer the program.
SASCS Director’s Report
The school is not in session, therefore there is no report.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 9/8/2015
Place: UASCS Building
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.
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 8/11/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires (executive decision)
Approval of Title I coordinator assignment
Approval of renewal of contracts between Utica Academy
Approval of New Charter School Application
Approval of a new board member
Election of vice president
Approval of change of orders for school business office construction
Discussion
Audit process and updates:
Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policies
Annual board retreat
Annual academic status and plans for 2015-16
Superintendent’s report
Director’s report (SASCS)
Discussion Items
Audit process and updates: CFO provided information regarding the ongoing audit process for past year. Financials were not reviewed due to audit of the business office during the week.
Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policies: The policy was distributed for signature and certain parts were announced at the meeting as a reminder.
Annual board retreat: Board will hold a retreat in the month of October to go over annual data and plans.
Annual academic status and plans or 2015-16: CAO provided a 30 minutes presentation on the academic status of SASCS in regards to State tests and Regents tests (in comparison to State and District) and provided a brief plan to improve the school’s academic performance in this year; teacher training, coaching, and retention as well as hiring external consultants to help to increase teacher quality. He also described the new intervention plan for math and ELA courses and training of teachers to be proactive in use of student data provided by Superintendent’s office. He also provided tools to be used by teachers in the implementation of curriculum etc.
Superintendent’s Report
SASCS Director’s Report
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Elementary School
Home visits: Kindergarten 8, First Grade 16, Second Grade 40, Third Grade 3, Fourth Grade 4
New this year: We are implementing a PBIS model to highlight positive student behavior. The elementary school has recreated school wide expectations that are phrased in a positive way! The PBIS committee will meet to help incorporate a positive school atmosphere/culture for all!
Olweus is also being implemented school wide. This bully prevention program is designed to help parents,teachers, and students reduce bullying. Each month, every class will spend 20 minutes in a meeting like setting to work on character building and anti-bullying!
We are continuing our partnership with Empower to teach students about savings. A representative will visit us once each month to collect money for student savings accounts. First collection is on September 22
Back to school night is scheduled for September 16th. Any grandparent that attends will receive a small treat in honor of Grandparents Day!
Upcoming events: HSO is scheduled for September 8th, Back to school September 16th, Several field trips for k-2 have already been booked
Middle School
8/12-8/14: New Teacher Institute: Staff new to SAS received general training for the upcoming school year.
8/17-8/21: Summer Institute for Staff: SAS staff received general training for the upcoming school year.
8/21: New student orientation took place from 9am to 12pm.
8/24: First day of school for all students.
High School
SUNY ESF Camp 8/3-8/7
Syracuse Academy Charter School students spent a week immersed in environmental science and ecology activities through the SUNY ESF (State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry) Summer Science Camp. Eleven SAS students attended the camp with 4 SUNY ESF supervisors along with SAS science teacher and program director, Dr. Ay. This included both indoor and outdoor hands-on activities and online components as well. The camp covered topics such as local trees, energy usage, GPS, wind turbine engineering, animal habitats, water shed landscaping, pollution, water cleaning and stream analysis.
8/12-8/14
New Teacher Institute: Staff new to SAS received general training for the upcoming school year.
8/17-8/21
Summer Institute for Staff: SAS staff received general training for the upcoming school year.
8/21: First day for new students
8/24: First day for all students
9/4: SUNY Oswego Field Trip; Science teacher will taking 5 students to present their summer research projects to scientists at the school.
9/5: Stevens Institute of Technology; Mr. M takes 7 student Stevens Institute of Technology
Testing: 8/10-8/13 Regents Exams
Executive Session
Motion by 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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 10/13/2015
Place: UASCS High School
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.
Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the following minutes, with necessary corrections, of the Board of Trustees Meeting (Minutes forwarded to Trustees via e-mail.)
Regular Board Meeting of 9/8/2015 and of 9/22/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires
Approval of Refreshment and Drink Policy
Approval of Title 1&2 grant budget as proposed
Approval of Enrollment Policy
Approval of annual distribution of code of ethics policy
Approval of Audit Report
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Independent Audit Review (executive session)
BoT retreat day
September & October Star Math and Reading test results data analysis
Superintendent’s report
Director’s report (SASCS)
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: Financials are reviewed. Financial dashboard and monthly statements were presented.
Independent Audit Review (executive session): Auditor provided a summary of the 2014-15 summary. Auditor notified the board that there is no material weakness and all the recommendations which were made last year have been implemented by the school. Board asked what else we can do to improve our processes.
BoT retreat day: Sunday October 18th at 1.30 pm, at Utica high school. The board will review itself and will focus on its recruitment plan. The agenda will be sent.
September & October Star Math and Reading test results data analysis: Chief of Staff provided a presentation on Star Math and Reading test results and intervention plans. Board asked questions regarding the growth on certain grade level. Board would like to get reporting on the monthly reporting on these tests.
Superintendent’s Report
SASCS Director’s Report
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
33 (3.76%) – two months
Testing:
9/30 8th and 9th graders sat for the PSAT at the HS.
Events:
All 3 schools had their photos taken this month.
9/14: All HS after school clubs met this week for the first time.
9/14-18 The Scholastic Book Fair, was a great success. We doubled our goal and sold
approximately $3900 in books!
9/16 The elementary school invited all parents in for our annual Back to school night!
Altogether, there were 132 families that attended.
9/16: Back to School Night at all 3 buildings. Parents were invited to the schools to meet the teachers for the 2015-2016 school year.
9/16: ½ day for Professional Development
19/16 The Elementary School hosted their Olweus Kick off event. The entire school came
together to introduce our Bully Prevention Program. Students, staff, and teachers had face
paintings, a photo booth, anti-bullying posters, and participated in team building activities.
9/29: MIT Open House: SAS served as the location for MIT to have an open house. This was open to the entire city of Syracuse.
9/29: MS HSO meeting and Lego League Meeting
10/1: Chief Fowler visited the HS to speak with the 8th and 11th graders about his education and experiences as the Chief of Police for Syracuse.
10/6: HS HSO elections held by Director
10/7: Service Academy Night. Students were invited to attend the Service Academy Night at OCC for anyone that is interested in joining any of the US’s Service Academies.
ES Field Trips:
Various Dates: Tim’s Pumpkin Patch. Students got to see the pumpkin patch, corn maze, animal barn, hay fort, and the grain barn.
Various Dates: Navarino Orchards. Students were able to pick their own apples and see the pumpkin patch.
Various Dates: Beak and Skiff. Students were able to pick their own apples and learn about an apple orchard, how apples are grown, and how cider is made.
Various Dates: Fort Rickey. Students went to this discovery zoo where they had presentations about animals, visited the petting zoo, and the playground.
HS Field Trips:
9/11-9/13: Columbia University. Mr. M. took 10 students to visit Columbia University and New York City for the weekend.
9/12: Robotics Kick Off Event in Utica. Our Robotics Team went to the regional meeting to review this year’s requirements and guidelines for Robotics Competitions.
10/2: Manufacturing Careers Day. Students went to Lockheed Martin to see demonstrations at the company with hopes of increasing interest in manufacturing careers in the future. The students and advisor really liked this field trip.
10/3: Congressional Award Picnic. Mr. M and Mr. S held a picnic for students that they are advising for the Congressional Award. Their families were invited to help with building school and home relationship with these students.
10/8: Spaghetti Warehouse. Students that are in the Drama Club’s fall play, the Murder Mystery, are going to view an actual Murder Mystery put on by local actors.
10/9-10/10: Princeton University. Mr. M and Mr. S taking 10 students for a college visit to Princeton University.
Middle School
On Friday, September 11, 2015, the SAS Middle School held a variety of activities commemorating 9/11. In the morning, we created an American flag using each grade level wearing red, white, and blue and paid our respects with a moment of silence. We also conducted the pledge of allegiance as an entire school. In the classroom, middle school students studied the event and our country’s response, heard narratives from staff perspective of where they were during 9/11 as well as wrote thank you letters to the brave men and women that serve our great nation.
On Wednesday, September 16, 2015, middle school had back to school night. Attendance was much better comparing the previous year per our teachers.
On Tuesday, September 29, 2015, middle school had its first HSO meeting.
On Friday, October 9, 2015, middle school had its first student of the month ceremony in the gym with parent attendance. A student from each section was awarded with a certificate and a dress down day.
HS College Visits:
During this time frame, the following colleges came to SAS to speak with interested 11th and 12th graders regarding their schools’ programs, activities, and other important info regarding enrollment. Colleges that visited were: Stevenson University, Alfred University, SUNY Maritime, Roger Williams University, Wells College, MIT, Alfred State College, Seton Hall, Medaille College, and Keuka College.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 Agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 11/10/2015
Place: SASCS High School
The regular meeting was called to order at 7.05 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.
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 10/13/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of 990 tax form
Approval of updated wellness policy
Approval of new hires (executive session)
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Academic reporting
Facilities
Superintendent’s report – parental reporting
School report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: Financial statements and summary are reviewed. Budget in general will be reviewed next month for revisions. School dashboard shows strong financial being.
Academic reporting: Star math and Reading monthly testing results for three months has been reviewed. Certain grades show very slow growth. Action plan for these were discussed. Superintendent explained the use of data by school leaders to improve academic performance.
Facilities: Middle school ac/heating system is installed. Superintendent office is relocated to SAS high school.
Superintendent’s Report
Board President asked question regarding AP courses, and Superintendent reported that there are 1 AP courses but 13 college courses are offered in high school. In addition, Superintendent answered some of the questions and statements raised at public hearing last week. Certified/Uncertified teachers issue is discussed. Current law allows 15 uncertified teachers, with certain restrictions such as experience in teaching in that field and being highly qualified. Currently the school has 8 teachers without certification, and all have either 5 or more years of teaching experience or have PhD in their fields.
A board member raised the question whether we know the suspended students have post-traumatic stress. We should look into more closely into these kids. School has not had any expulsion in this academic year.
SASCS Director’s Report
School Dean Report
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Month: November 2015
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
19 (2.17%)
Elementary School
10/6/15 Parents and students attended an evening to celebrate Literacy Awareness. Various games, activities, and read alouds took place around the school.
10/16/15 Students from the LeMoyne Chemistry Club completed science experiments with our second grade classes.
The Olweus committee has prepared weekly classroom meetings to teach students about bullying and how to prevent it.
10/22/15 Teachers spent the day at the Terra Conference for Professional Development with an emphasis on ESL. Our teacher, Ines Tamilia was nominated “Teacher of the Year”
10/22/15 Teachers stayed late into the evening conferencing with parents about the upcoming report card.
10/28/15 & 10/29/15 Student of the Month and Quarterly Awards were announced for best citizenship, best academics, and most improved.
10/30 Students paraded through the halls to show off their costumes to parents, families, and friends. Many parents spent the in classrooms participating in fall activities with students.
Middle School
On Friday, October 9, 2015, the SAS Middle school held its first Student of the Month ceremony of the year. A student, who showed dedication, passion, and hard work throughout September, from each section was recognized during the ceremony.
On Friday, October 23rd, 2015 the SAS Middle School held our Olweus Anti-Bullying program kickoff event. This research based program has been utilized in many schools throughout the world to help address bullying and bring its devastation out of the shadows.
On Monday, October 26th, Mr. Giuseppe Passucci was a guest speaker at the 5th and 6th grade science classes at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School. He is currently in the physics doctoral program at Syracuse University.
On Thursday, October 29th, 2015, the Student Leadership Club at the middle school hosted a Fall dance.
On Friday, October 30th, 2015, Ms. Brandi Williams visited our 7th grade ELA classes. She is a doctoral student at Syracuse University and a parent of a SASCS elementary student. She is coming to speak to our middle school students about a FREE youth writing conference that is being hosted by "Writing Our Lives" on Saturday November 7, 2015 from 9am-1pm at Danforth Middle School.
On Friday, November 6th, 2015, SAS Middle school held our 1st marking period award ceremony. Total of 82 students were recognized in various categories such as best academic, best citizenship, most improved, high honor roll, honor roll, and student of the month of October.
On Monday, November 9th, 2015, Google Expeditions Pioneer Academy program came to our middle school to take our students on immersive virtual journeys. Google Expeditions is located at https://www.google.com/edu/expeditions/ (Expeditions is a virtual reality platform built for the classroom. Expeditions are guided tours of places schools buses can't go. They are comprised of virtual reality panoramas and are led by a guide and/or teacher.)
High School
10/23 and 10/24: Murder Mystery Dinner was put on by the HS Drama club. Dinner was served as a nail-biting play went on around the audience.
10/26: Speaker Dr. Label visited the high school and spoke with the 10th graders about his career in genetics.
10/30: September and October Student of the Month Dress Down Day: Students that were recognized for achieving SOTH for Sept and Oct dressed down on this day.
11/6: Open Mic and Arts Night: Students and staff are invited to showcase their talents as a fundraiser event for drama and arts clubs.
10/14 10th and 11th graders sat for the PSAT at the HS.
Quarter Finals are administered for Social Studies, Science, ELA and Math courses on 10/21 and 10/22
10/14: Drama students went to Shoppingtown Mall to see a showing of Little Shop of Horrors, the play they put on last Spring.
10/15: Career Construction Day: Students went to the Fairgrounds with Mr.M to see different careers and opportunities that exist in the construction field. The students had a really great time!
10/24: Rosamond Zoo: Students went with Dr A to demonstrate some science experiments during the Zoo Boo at the Zoo.
10/25: Robotics Scrimmage: Robotics team travelled to Cicero with Mr.Z to compete with another Robotics team for practice.
10/27: SUNY ESF Field Trip: Students went with Dr. Ato discuss issues and ideas concerning renewable energy.
11/6: OCC College Fair: Students traveled to OCC to experience the college fair for college readiness.
Zoo Boo: 3 seniors attended the event on the weekends on the 17th and 24th to assist with creating a fun trick or treating experience for children as a community service event.
During the month of October, the following colleges came to SAS to speak with interested 11th and 12th graders regarding their schools’ programs, activities, and other important info regarding enrollment: WPI, NYU, Morrisville, University of Scranton, and Clarkson University.
11/6: Quarter 1 award ceremony: Students and staff celebrated the end of the first quarter and recognized successful students.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Bussing issues and communication regarding award ceremonies has been brought up. School needs bus drivers and award ceremonies issues will be addressed by the school admins. Mr Bak stated that some award ceremonies are small and not to take too much time with planning. Parents are invited for planned large scale award ceremonies. Parent talked about her kids (two) who were SWD at SASCS and commented about services they received from school; “beyond what is stated in their IP” and always pleased with communication and dedication by the staff and admins. Parent talked about their experience regarding their student who get very close to be expelled and how the school handled the issue. At the end, student received counseling and stayed in school and made the dean’s list after three years of this incident. They were very grateful for the school for turning his life around and push him to his potential. Mrs. Reaves who is one of the staff member talked about her life experience and how she sees students and dedicates herself for students who goes through same life experiences.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 12/8/2015
Place: UASCS High School
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.
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 11/10/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires
Approval of changing the health insurance to self-funded health insurance
Approval of changing dental insurance to Delta with a wider network
Approval of changing vision and long term disability insurances
Approval of bank account openings for the health insurance claims
Approval of updated capitalization policy
Approval of RFP responses for Security Services
Approval of wellness policy
Approval of bonus for full time employees,
Discussion
Financial status and budget
November and December Star Math and Reading test result data analysis
Fall teacher survey analysis
Outside evaluator for schools
PR company
School report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: Financial summaries and dashboard has been analyzed. SASCS financials are in good conditions. The budget will be revised for next month’s meeting.
Academic: Monthly Star Math and Reading test result data analysis: Board reviewed the monthly math and reading test results for the last three months for 3-rd-8th graders. Some grades have been showing great improvements, while few needs extra support. Support services have been discussed.
Fall teacher survey analysis; Board review the teacher survey summaries and overall happy with the outcome however identified the following issues to be improved this year as a focus area:
Outside evaluator for schools: retired superintendent as an outside evaluator for board and superintendent by observing schools and classrooms. The board thinks that it will be useful for the board for making decision based on her feedback.
PR company: The school is looking for PR companies to help school’s media relations.
Suspension rate was discussed, additional PD should be provided to first time teachers at the school. District office will hire consultants regarding student issues, Reverend Dunmore will come to school for addressing students regarding respect to teachers and staff members. Students can be brought to prison to set up examples.
School Dean Report
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Month: December 2015
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
November 22 (2.5%)
Elementary School: 3
High School: 8
Middle School: 11
Expulsions: 0
Elementary School
11/12/15 Rachel Polansky, a reporter from News Channel 9, visited our third grade students. She shared interesting stories that she was able to investigate.
11/18/15 Kindergarten students had a visit from Bea Gonzalez, the Dean of Syracuse University. During her visit, she read a bilingual book to our students, called “Abuela”
11/23 & 11/24 Students were recognized for outstanding achievements at the Student of the Month Ceremony. The Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) Committee recognized the classes that earned the most DOJO points for each grade level. Students were selected to compete against their teachers to win a “crazy hair day” for their class!
12/2/15 The Olweus Committee hosted a meeting for parents to discuss “Bullying on the Bus” and to provide Tips for Parents on how to address reports of bullying from their child.
During the month of November, our students visited: Betts Branch Library, Billy Beez, Ultimate Goal, Five Star Martial Arts, Loretto Nursing Home, and Baltimore Woods. During these field trips, students practiced teamwork, citizenship, and respect.
Middle School
On Thursday, November 12th, 2015, the middle school was visited by Staff Sergeant Eric Navarro from the United States Air Force. He came to our building to speak on a variety of subjects. He began the presentation with some details about his life and what led him to the military.
On Saturday, November 14th, 2015, 3 teams from the SAS Middle School attended the MOST Build Em & Bust Em bridge building competition. 5 students from 5th grade and 1 student from the 6th grade competed in Section II.
On Wednesday, November 18, 2015, fifth grade students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School took a trip to LeMoyne College.
On Thursday, November 19, 2015, sixth grade students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School took a trip to LeMoyne College.
On Friday, November 20, 2015, seventh grade students at the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School took a trip to LeMoyne College.
Through the first three weeks of November, the SAS Middle School conducted a can food drive. The proceeds were to benefit In My Father's Kitchen. Nearly 1500 items were donated by our middle school families. On the 23rd of November, the student body presented these items to Mr. Tomino.
On Friday, December 4, 2015, the SAS Middle school held its third Student of the Month ceremony of the year to celebrate and appreciate students who have shown dedication, passion, and hard work through out November.
High School
High school is taking donations for the Syracuse Veterans Medical Center to donate before Thanksgiving. Donations were lacking, so we extended the delivery date Dec 14th.
On Friday, November 13th, Chef Tom Kiernan came to SAS high school to speak with some of our 12th and 11th grade students as well as the 9th grade. Chef Tom is the Executive Chef for the new Marriott Syracuse Downtown Hotel opening this Spring. He spoke with our students about his career choices and shared his journey to where he is now. Chef Tom shared his words of wisdom with the students, telling them to find something they love doing and to pursue it. The students really enjoyed the visit and we would love to have him back again next year.
On Tuesday, November 23rd: High School Pep Rally: Student-athletes were recognized during a traditional pep rally, including music, games, and a lot of cheering to support our teams!
November 13: Rhode Island College Visits: about a third of the senior class went to RI to visit 2 colleges. The students visited Roger Williams University and Brown University. The group also got to visit 2 of the nicest towns Rhode Island has to offer, Jamestown and Newport. Other being a little chilly, the students had a nice time and we hope visit these schools again next year!
November 13: Women in Engineering Day: 2 of our 10th grade students were given the opportunity to attend the 15th annual “Women in Engineering Day” at Lockheed Martin. Ms. Nelli accompanied Sarah Babcock and Jamila Eatman to the event. The students participated in some hands-on activities and were able to get a closer look at the engineering profession while meeting other local students with the same interests. The girls were also able to connect with mentors, learned more about Lockheed, and were able to tour the facility. The students really enjoyed their experience and we will definitely return next year!
November 14: CNY Build'em & Bust'em Competition: 6 of SAS's Robotics Team members went to the MOST Museum with Mr. Zengin and Mr. Altin to compete in the CNY Build'em & Bust'em Competition. There were 99 teams in attendance and both SAS teams placed in the competition!
SAS competed in two categories; Category 2 for middle school students and in Category 3 for high school students. Atoms Smasher (Category 2) received 4th place with their 11.6 gr balsa wood bridge which held 23.5 kg. Squad Atoms (Category 3) received 2nd place with their 10.5 gr balsa wood bridge which held 17.6 kg. Congratulations to the following students for a job well done!
Atoms Smasher Team: Benjamin Cameron, Huseyin Sula, and Joseph Capra
Squad Atoms Team: Riley Phuc, Azamat Karimov and Nicholas Brown
Thanksgiving Break Camps: SAT camp with Mr M and Mr Sercan, Robotics Camp with Mr Zengin and Mr Altin, and Science Camp with Dr Ay; about 30 students attended these 3 camps to improve their academic/club performance. Students all had structured learning time as well as time to bond with their classmates. Camp houses were in Tully, NY, Auburn, NY, and Seneca Falls, NY.
SU concession stand: about 10 seniors went to the SU game to run a concession stand with Coach Thompson. Students arrived about 10am and stayed until 3pm. They learned quickly and enjoyed their time volunteering at the SU game.
During this time frame, the US Marines visited SAS to speak with upper classmen interested in the armed forces.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any topic.
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.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 1/19/2016
Place : SASCS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.10 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 12/8/2015
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires
2. Approval of revised budget
3. Approval of contract with PR company
4. Approval of revised service contract with UASCS
5. Approval of revised enrollment policy
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis
3. Recruitment Plan and Priorities for 2016 Application Cycle:
4. Superintendent’s report
V. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Revised budget was reviewed. Mr. Bilge provided information on items which are revised. Also, financial statement was reviewed.
2. January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis: The monthly data was reviewed.
The data also included the trend and performance by grade over 4 months. Certain grades needs more aggressive intervention in order to get all grade level in both subjects higher than state average. The school is looking for ELA interventiontools as they have for math. Currently, they are testing couple programs.
3. Enrollment policy changes: After the discussion of the state’s feedback regarding ELL preference, board decided to focus on targeted recruitment to increase its ELL and FRLP population. School will try to purchase mailing address offamilies with certain income level and will work closely with Catholic charities regarding ELL recruitment.
4. Recruitment Plan and Priorities for 2016 Application Cycle: Further discussion took place regarding what needs to be done during recruitment and application cycle in order to
increase the applicant pool with ELL and FRLP student population.
VI. Superintendent’ s Report
School Dean Repor
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Month: January 2016
Elementary School
1. 12/9/15 Syracuse Academy of Science hosted it’s local spelling bee. After months of practicing,seventeen students participated in the oral round. Four students will advance to the regional competition on 1/16/16.
2. At our December award ceremony, 254 students were recognized for their outstanding behavior in school. By earning 85 DOJO points throughout the month, each student earned recognition on the Elementary School’s League of ExtraordinaryCitizens. Next month, students must earn 100 DOJO points to be on the League!
3. 1/4/16 First graders made blankets to keep dogs warm during winter. They donated the blankets to Helping Hounds of Syracuse, NY.
4. 1/5/16 Dr. Crabill, president of Onondaga Community College visited with our third grade students. She read a story and answered questions about college, careers, and credit!
5. 1/6/16 Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary teachers were trained by members of the American Diabetes Association about how to assist students with diabetes in school and at school events.
6. 1/6/16 Teachers from Bricks for Kidz visited Syracuse Academy of Science classrooms for the first time. They will be spending the next six weeks with our students while implementing science lessons with hands on technology.
Middle School
1. On Thursday, December 10th and Friday, December 11th, 2015, the 5th and 6th grade science students participated in the Hour of Code. Students participated as an extension of the newly implemented computer coding curriculum that has been implemented from K-6. Students coded games using Star Wars, Minecraft, Flappy Bird, & Frozen Themes.
2. On Friday, December 18th, 2015 SAS Middle School's Student Leadership Club hosted a "Winter
Wonderland" themed dance.
3. On Tuesday, December 22nd, 2015, SAS middle school staff brought in dishes to share with each other to enjoy some food and each other’s company before leaving for vacation. The potluck was well attended and lots of yummy food was brought.
4. In the month of December, the students of the SAS Middle School conducted a Holiday Donation Drive. The drive was created by the Student Leadership Club advised my Ms. Bittel. Students donated hat and glove sets, coats, and toys to the RescueMission. Gina Rapasadi, the Direction of Special Events for the Syracuse Rescue Mission, was on hand to tell students about the mission of her organization and where the donations go to after leaving the school. The spirit of giving once again shines brightat SAS with several hundred items donated to a great cause!
Here is the list of items donated to Rescue Mission:
285 toys
30 coats
13 hats
12 gloves
2 scarfs
55 pair of socks
155 toothbrushes
144 dental floss
Total of 696
We are grateful for the generosity all of our families throughout the year. Thank you for your support of our mission and the community.
5. On Friday, January 8, 2016, the SAS Middle School held the December Student of the Month Ceremony. This event is special to the staff as it gives us the ability to recognize students’ efforts in their academics, behavior, and citizenship. 5th & 6th graderecreational girls’ basketball team was awarded after a successful season.
6. On Friday, January 15th, 2016 Retired Syracuse Fire Chief, Mike Chura presented to all 5th and 6th grade students in Miss. Bittel's social studies class. Chief Chura spoke to students about how to become a firefighter, fire safety in the home (includingsmoke detectors and escape route plans). He also shared personal stories of rescues and showed the students fire safety gear and awards earned during his 35 years of service!
High School
1. 12/9: Speaker Mary Kiernan came in to SAS to speak with the 10th graders about culinary school and basic nutrition. Mary is an Instructor in the Public Health, Food Studies, and Nutrition Department at
SU. The students asked some wonderful questions and were really interested in what Mary was sharing with them. Students really enjoyed her visit and we would be happy to have Mary visit us again next year!
2. 12/15: Speakers from Subcat Music Studios came to the high school to speak with the 8th grade students about working in the music industry. First, the students heard from the Principal Owner, Ron Keck, who discussed the construction, building structureand the intense amount of work that went into renovating their space. Students then heard from the Studio Manager, Jonathan Lessels, who spoke about the projects that Subcat has worked on and the artists that they have worked with. Lastly,
students heard from the studio Engineer, Steve Brown, regarding the process and time it takes to create, edit, and finalize something they are working on. They also brought music samples for the students to hear and answered questions our students had. Students really enjoyed the visit from Subcat Music Studios, we can't wait for the opportunity to tour their studio.
3. 12/17: Shakespeare Competition was held. Students competed for a chance to earn the opportunity to represent SAS at the regional Shakespeare Competition later this year. A winner was not determined and another competition will be held at a laterdate to see who will move on to the next level of competition.
4. 12/23: Staff Potluck. Staff brought in dishes to share with each other to enjoy some food and each other’s company before leaving for vacation. The potluck was well attended and lots of yummy food was brought.
5. 12/24 – 1/1: Christmas Vacation. Students and staff enjoyed some time home with family and friends to reenergize for the new year.
6. 12/6 and 12/13: Robotics FTC Competition in Corning, NY and Sauquoit, NY. Students attended competition to ready them for larger competition on 12/19.
7. 12/12: SAS's Science Olympiad team attended the 2015 invitational Division C New York Science Olympiad at Fayetteville-Manlius High school in Manlius, NY. There were 26 events students competed in ranging from building events like Electric Car, toanswering questions for Dynamic Planet. Approximately 32 New York State high schools participated in the Invitational Science Olympiad this year. The top 3 in each event were announced and the students earned medals for their hard work.
8. The New York Regional Competition will be on January 30th 2016 at Le Moyne College. The SAS Science Olympiad Team will be there to compete against 35 schools. Good luck to our students on January 30th!
9. 12/19: Robotics FTC Competition in Rochester, NY. Atoms won the 2015-2016 Rockwell Collins Innovate Award. With this award, Atoms have advanced to the next level of competition and will attend the Excelsior NY FTC Regional ChampionshipCompetition at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, in Utica, NY on January 17, 2016.
10.12/19: Dy Ay took Jamila Eatman to SUNY Oswego to use the equipment in their chemistry department to assist with her research project.
11.1/8: Syracuse Veteran’s Medical Center Donations Delivery: Students have been collecting various items for the veterans for the past couple of months to donate to the medical center. Students donated a total of 234 total items for the veterans.
VII. 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.
VIII. Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
IX. Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic. 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 agenda topic.
X. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 8.55 pm .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 2/9/2016
Place: UASCS High School
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.
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 1/19/2016
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires
Approval of Student Dismissal Policy
Approval of School Visitor Policy
Approval of funds to match Allyn Foundation grant
Discussion
Financial status and budget
January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis
HR audit
Alternative programs to replace suspension in Middle School
Non-Certified teacher rates presentation
Board members bios and pictures to update school website
Superintendent’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget CFO provided a presentation over summary of financials and financial dashboard. The school is doing great in terms financials.
January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis: Start test results were presented. The data included last 5 months data by grade and subject, in comparison to State average, district average, and school’s performance last year. SASCS have already piloted this program last year and now fully implemented in all grades in both ELA and Math subjects. Teachers are trying new tricks, such as discussing the results with students to motivate them to do better next time. It looks like when students owns the results, they care more. Overall, there is steady growth in almost all grades and subjects, however there are few grades needs more attention. Board asked questions regarding the low scores in certain grades trying to grasp why not all grades perform similarly. School stated that they also look for the growth rate rather than just the score.
HR audit: The school will like to have a self- HR audit. It will cost less than $3K and will not need board approval, but board is notified regarding the practice.
Alternative programs to replace suspension in Middle School: In order to reduce suspension rate in the middle school, we have been executing the following items (presentation by Mr Yavuz):
Our teachers have been meeting with students for counseling.
School counselor has been providing counseling to students.
Dean of Students has been providing counseling to students.
Calling parents right away to have them on board.
Meeting with parents as soon as possible.
Creating behavior plans
Executing lunch/recess detention and AES (Additional Educational Setting) on Saturdays
We have ZERO suspension since the last board meeting in the middle school.
Interestingly, 1-2 parents asked for out of school suspension instead of AES, because they wouldn't be able to bring their child(ren) to school on Saturday, but we didn't suspend these student out of the school. We followed the protocol and assigned AES.
Non-Certified teacher rates presentation: A presentation has been made regarding number of non-certified staff members, their status, and subject areas, and challenges.
Board members bios and pictures to update school website: Board members do not like their full bios and pictures on websites, however, names and titles will be posted on website.
Superintendent’s Report
School Dean Report
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
3 (ES)
0 (MS)
9 (HS)
Elementary School
1/25/16 Elementary students have completed their third week of Bricks 4 Kidz. Students are working collaboratively to build small items and complete challenges. All students are improving their communication and problem solving skills!
1/14/16 The elementary school hosted their winter concert and art show. The school’s HSO hosted a bake sale during the event to raise funds for the school.
1/7/16 Staff members attended a training with the American Diabetes Association. Teachers learned how and when to administer Glucogen and symptoms to look for when working with diabetic staff members and children.
January Field trips included: 5 Star Martial Arts, Beaver Lake Nature Center, Meachum Ice Arena, Billy Beez, The MOST, and Ultimate Goal.
Middle School
On Tuesday, February 2, 2016, a group of staff, parents, and students from the SAS family went to Albany for the NYS Charter School Advocacy Day. The intention of this event was to showcase SAS and other charters in NYS and to help build new relationships with those that create the laws that govern our schools. In addition, the long-standing partnerships with the many lawmakers that have long supported the amazing work done at SAS and other charters. Two administrators, Mr. Yavuz and Mr. Bak, the Deans of the Middle and High Schools and Mr. Carter, 5th & 6th grade science teacher, led the group. They were joined by eight of the dedicated parent partners with 12 students ranging from grades 2 through 7.
The group met with the staff members from the offices of Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, Assemblyman William Magnarelli, and Senator John Defrancisco as these representatives were in chamber. They were also able to speak directly to Senator Valesky and Samuel Roberts, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
On Friday, February 5, 2016, middle school students had dance activity from 5:30pm to 7pm in the school gym.
On Saturday, January 30, 2016, 15 students from 5th grade came to school to study math from 9am to 12pm with Mr. Frisina.
On Saturday, January 23, 2016, 14 students from 5th grade came to school to study math from 9am to 12pm with Mr. Frisina.
On Saturday, January 16, 2016, 13 students from 5th grade came to school to study math from 9am to 12pm with Mr. Frisina.
High School
SAS Robotics Team, Robatoms, participated in the state robotics competitions and ended the season for the year. Robatoms participated in three qualifying tournaments this year, and were awarded the most innovative design award.
SAS Science Olympiad Team attended the Central NY Regional Science Olympiad competition and came back home with 6 medals in 3 engineering categories.
PSAT results were published this year. According to the nationally administered PSAT exam, College Readiness scores according to the collegeboard stats are as follows: 8th Grade: 32%, 9th Grade: 27%, 10th Grade: 31%, 11th Grade: 37%. These scores up from 9% since 2011, and also higher than the 9% SCSD average.
Retake Regents exams were held the last week of January. Many of our students passed their required exams and are on track for graduation.
Quarterly award ceremony was held on February 5. 63 students received High Honor Roll, and 54 students received Honor Roll recognition.
16 Students visited Guitar Factory in Pennsylvania, and visited Lincoln College during their trip.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Agenda
Date : 3/8/2016
Place: SASCS High School
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.
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 2/9/2016
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires – executive session
Discussion
Financial status and budget
January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis
Recruitment efforts in special subgroups- 904 applicants
PR company
Superintendent’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: CFO reviewed the Financial Summary of the school. The grants which were approved were discussed. He also mentioned new grants which will be applied soon.
January Star Math and Reading test result data analysis: Math and ELA Start test results since beginning of year was analyzed in comparison with last year’s state average, district average, and school’s performance. Also annual projection of all start testing results and end-of-year expectations were analyzed for every grade. The 5th and 6th grade ELA was lagging behind compared to others subjects and grades. School has been working on identifying the reasons and addressing the issue.
Recruitment efforts in special subgroups – 904 applicants as of today: Refugee center was visited and fliers were dropped to recruit ELL students. Families with income less than $40K were sent fliers in mail to attract FRPL. Two Saturdays the school held open houses for those who applied already.
PR company: Pickney Hugo, PR company, which was approved, to work with the school declined to provide networking opportunities as the school requested. The school is looking for PR company which will increase its network of opportunities for the students.
Suspension rates of ES and HS were discussed. There will be more PD and rap-around programs to cut suspensions rates.
School and board member attended teacher recruitment at historically black colleges. School is trying to create a relationship with these colleges. School 26, 8, 16 teacher candidates and provided presentation about the school. School will have a skype meeting to set up multilayer relationship with them.
Superintendent’s Report
School Dean Reports
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
5 (ES)
0 (MS)
7 (HS)
Elementary School
2/1/16-2/29/16 Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School celebrated Black History Month. Various projects (student art and essays) were displayed in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.
2/26/16 K-4 students participated in the annual science fair. Classroom projects were displayed in the elementary cafeteria and 4th grade individual science experiments were displayed at the middle school.
3/1/16 Syracuse City Councilor Susan Boyle visited our third grade students. She described her job working for the people in Syracuse.
Middle School
2/5/2016 Middle school had its 3rd dance of the year at school gymnasium.
2/6/2016 15 5th grade students came to school to study math with our 5th grade math teacher.
2/11/2016 All students had a dress rehearsal for the Winter Concert.
2/12/2016 Middle school students celebrated Black History Month. Various projects (student art and essays) were displayed in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.
2/12/2016 Middle school had 2nd Marking Period Award Ceremony. Students who are in high honor roll, honor roll, best academic, best citizenship, most improved, and student of the month categories were recognized.
2/13/2016 Middle school students collected 2300 bottles of water in 5 days to benefit the people of Flint, Michigan.
2/25/16 Middle School hosted our Girl's Empowerment All Night Lock In Event. Our school counselor, art, and music teachers planned this event and had a wonderful turn out! 60+ 5th-8th graders got together to enjoy an evening of fun.
2/26/2016 students in grades 5-7 participated in the annual science fair. Projects were displayed and presented at the school gym. Qualifying students will present their projects in CNY Science Fair on Sunday, March 20, 2016.
2/27/2016 Middle school MathCounts team placed 2nd in regional competition and qualified to go to Statewide MathCounts competition.
3/1/2016 Middle school held its Winter Concert and Art Exhibition.
3/4/2016 7th graders participated in their first formal debate! The debate topic was to argue if Lyddie, the main character in the novel we read, should or should not sign a petition for better working conditions.
High School
3/1/2016 PSATs: 8th-10th graders took the PSAT on March 1. Students started to take the PSAT starting 8th grade to prepare them better for the redesigned SAT.
2/27/2016 Successful Athletic Program: Varsity Boys and Girls basketball teams played the sectional final. They lost against the state champion of this year.
Some of the art students are entered into the VANS Custom Culture competition. 4 blank pairs of shoes have arrived and Ms. Miller’s 8th period Drawing class as well as Art Club members and a select few students will work on designs. The competition goes until 4/8.
Drama Club is preparing for the Spring Performance: This year’s performance is The Wiz in June.
2/23/2016 Assistant District Attorney visited SAS to speak to our freshmen: In addition to the law as a career, students learned about criminal justice and intellectual property laws.
2/12/2016 Science Fair: Science fair was a great success. 90 students competed by demonstrating their understanding of the scientific inquiry through their projects.
2/17/2016 College Trip: Juniors went on another campus visit, to Morrisville College, over the February Break.
2/6/2016 Quarterly Award Ceremony: Students are presented their Honor Roll and Dean’s List certificates for their success in the second quarter.
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: Choose an item.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Choose an item.
Public Session was reconvened at .
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 4/12/2016
Place: UASCS High School
The regular meeting was called to order at 8.45 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.
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 3/8/2016
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires
Approval of purchase of 180 new chromebooks.
Approval of asphalt project to repair parking lot in elementary school.
Approval of Interim Dean of High School
Approval of renewal of BOCES contract for Data coordination services
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Replacement as interim dean of high school
Graduation plans:
Lottery was held in SAS high school on April, 11, 2016.
Superintendent’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget
Lottery was held in SAS high school on April, 11, 2016. 1093 applications by April 1st for 110 seats.
Graduation plans: Supreme Court Judge Eddie MacShaun is the speaker at the commencement. June 24th at the Civic Center at 6 pm.
Superintendent’s report
Superintendent’s Report
School Dean Report
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
8 (ES)
7 (MS)
7(HS)
Elementary School
On Friday, March 11, 2016, SAS Middle School celebrated success and achievements of Science Fair, MathCounts, and Students of the Month.
On Monday, March 14, 2016, in Ms. Chapman's 5th grade Spanish class, three Honduran young ladies came to share about life in Honduras and answer students' questions.
On Thursday, March 17, 2016, the 7th grade math team had two wonderful guest speakers. Josiah Williams. He is a graduate of Jamesville-Dewitt High school. He currently goes to University of Buffalo and studies Business Administration. The other speaker's name is Greg Brangman. He is also a Jamesvile-Dewitt alumni. He is an Exercise Science major at SUNY Brockport. Some of the key points discussed were time management, academic responsibility, and diligence. In addition, they shared their personal experiences that related to these topics, one of our important goals at SAS is stated in our mission statement.
On Thursday, March 17, 2016, St. Patrick’s Day, the students and staff of the SAS Middle School had a very special treat. The dancers of the Rince Na Sonas School of Irish Dance put on a show as part of their annual holiday dance outs.
On Friday the 18, 2016, the students of the SAS Middle School held the 2nd Annual Staff vs. Students basketball game.
On Sunday, March 20, 2016, 21 students of the SAS Middle School attended the CNY Science & Engineering Fair. The following students were recognized individually for their exceptional work.
5th Grade: TH (Highest Honor)
6th Grade: TA- (Honor), AB (High Honor)
7th Grade: XW, (Honor), KR (Honor)
Special Award Recipient: AB: IEEE Award in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
On Thursday, March 24, 2016, The NED Show visited the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School. This organization brings a positive message to all students. NED stands for Never give up, Encourage others, and Do your best!!
On Friday, April 1st, 2016, 19 students from the Syracuse Academy of Science middle school entered into an Anti-Litter Poster Contest. Meachem Area Parks Association is currently sponsoring an anti-litter campaign for the valley to launch in the spring. The goal is to restore pride in our neighborhood by encouraging people to keep our streets and green spaces clean and free of litter.
On Saturday, April 2nd, 2016, 5th grade math teacher Mr. F had Saturday school with 10 students from 9am to 12pm.
On Tuesday, April 5th, 2016, Robert Drummond who is former Eagles NFL Running-back, 4 times CFL Grey Cup Winner, and Syracuse University Alumni came to middle school to speak with all of our students.
Middle School
On Friday, March 11, 2016, SAS Middle School celebrated success and achievements of Science Fair, MathCounts, and Students of the Month.
On Monday, March 14, 2016, in Ms. Chapman's 5th grade Spanish class, three Honduran young ladies came to share about life in Honduras and answer students' questions.
On Thursday, March 17, 2016, the 7th grade math team had two wonderful guest speakers. Josiah Williams. He is a graduate of Jamesville-Dewitt High school. He currently goes to University of Buffalo and studies Business Administration. The other speaker's name is Greg Brangman. He is also a Jamesvile-Dewitt alumni. He is an Exercise Science major at SUNY Brockport. Some of the key points discussed were time management, academic responsibility, and diligence. In addition, they shared their personal experiences that related to these topics, one of our important goals at SAS is stated in our mission statement.
On Thursday, March 17, 2016, St. Patrick’s Day, the students and staff of the SAS Middle School had a very special treat. The dancers of the Rince Na Sonas School of Irish Dance put on a show as part of their annual holiday dance outs.
On Friday the 18, 2016, the students of the SAS Middle School held the 2nd Annual Staff vs. Students basketball game.
On Sunday, March 20, 2016, 21 students of the SAS Middle School attended the CNY Science & Engineering Fair. The following students were recognized individually for their exceptional work.
5th Grade: TH(Highest Honor)
6th Grade: TA- (Honor), AB (High Honor)
7th Grade: XW, (Honor), KR (Honor)
Special Award Recipient: AB: IEEE Award in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
On Thursday, March 24, 2016, The NED Show visited the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School. This organization brings a positive message to all students. NED stands for Never give up, Encourage others, and Do your best!!
On Friday, April 1st, 2016, 19 students from the Syracuse Academy of Science middle school entered into an Anti-Litter Poster Contest. Meachem Area Parks Association is currently sponsoring an anti-litter campaign for the valley to launch in the spring. The goal is to restore pride in our neighborhood by encouraging people to keep our streets and green spaces clean and free of litter.
On Saturday, April 2nd, 2016, 5th grade math teacher Mr. Frisina had Saturday school with 10 students from 9am to 12pm.
On Tuesday, April 5th, 2016, Robert Drummond who is former Eagles NFL Running-back, 4 times CFL Grey Cup Winner, and Syracuse University Alumni came to middle school to speak with all of our students.
High School
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: Choose an item.
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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Choose an item.
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9.14 pm.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 5/10/2016
Place : SASCS High School
The regular meeting was called to order at 7.17 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.
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 4/12/2016
Roll Call: unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires and renewal of instructional staff for 2016-17 – executive session
Approval of purchase of 180 new chromebooks.
Approval of updated teacher pay scale – executive session
Approval of additional salary for hard to find subject teachers: Math, ELA, Science, and certified ELL teachers. – executive session
Approval of Co-teacher pay scale – executive session
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Draft 2016-17 Budget- executive
March Star Math and Reading test result data analysis
High School Updates
Graduation update
Superintendent’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget; Financial Dashboard and Financial summary was discussed
Draft 2016-17 Budget- executive; overall budget and major line item changes (increase and decreases) were discussed.
March Star Math and Reading test result data analysis: the report was discussed at grade level.
High School Updates: improvements in teacher lounge, nurse room moved to another room with a private bathroom. Teachers are allowed to leave at 4 pm instead of 4.30 pm in order to provide additional time during the day and retain our teachers. Students are assigned IDs to stay after school hours. Outside doors (fire doors) will be alarmed for leaving out to keep students safe.
Graduation update: June 24th 6.30 pm at Civic center.
Superintendent’s Report
School Dean Report
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Month: May 2016
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
0 (ES)
2 (MS)
0 (HS)
Elementary School
04/01-04/15 K-2 students encouraged 3rd and 4th graders through “Operation Ego Boost.” Each day, students were surprised with treats for encouragement on their upcoming NYS Math and ELA exams
4/18-4/22 Elementary students celebrated earth week. Classrooms completed various activities as reminders to keep our Earth clean. Kindergarten students took a nature walk and cleaned up trash along the way.
04/20- Vitamin L put on a concert for all students at the Elementary School. The organization’s mission is to build positive character development through uplifting and inspirational music.
4/21 & 4/22- Elementary students were recognized at the Quarterly Awards and Student of the Month ceremony.
4/25-4/29- 31 elementary students attended the Spring Break Science camp organized by science teacher and her 9th grade students. Students were engaged with various hands-on science experiments.
Syracuse Academy of Science celebrates Administrative Professionals Day and Teacher Appreciation week.
Middle School
SAS Middle school administered NYS ELA assessment during April 5-7 and NYS Math assessment during April 13-15.
On Thursday, April 21st, 2016, the Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School visited the Skyzone Trampoline Park.
On Friday, April 22nd, 2016, the SAS Middle School held their 3rd Quarter Award Ceremony. Students were recognized for their amazing efforts with awards that range from Most Improved through High Honor Roll.
Syracuse Academy of Science is very proud to announce that one of our very own atoms has won first place in the Anti-Litter Poster Contest. Huda Ali, a 7th grader competed against several other school districts in the Syracuse area with a wonderful poster that promoted a strong message on helping your community stay clean. Huda Ali won the first place prize and her poster will be reproduced and published throughout Syracuse. Syracuse Academy of Science is very proud of Huda in participating in a great contest that educates the importance of taking care of our planet, and SAS is even more proud that Huda won first place. Congratulations Huda Ali!
On Wednesday, May 4th, 2016, the SAS Middle school went to Syracuse Chiefs Baseball Game during Education Day.
SAS Middle school celebrates the Teacher Appreciation Week.
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: 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.
Public Comment on Any Agenda Topic
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on any agenda topic.
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 agenda topic.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9.13 pm.
Roll Call: unanimously
Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 6/7/2016
Place: UASCS High School
The regular meeting was called to order at 9.30 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.
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 5/10/2016
Roll Call: approved unanimously
Agenda
Approval of new hires and contracts for all staff – exec. Session
Approval of two IPad sets with 60 IPads in total
Approval of 2016-2017 Academic Calendar
Approval of 2016-2017 Student Handbook
Approval of 2016-2017 Board Meeting Dates
Approval of Student Uniform Vendor for 2016-2017 School Year
Approval of Budget Revisions
Approval of 2016-2017 Budget
Approval of 2016-2017 Pay Scale for Admin and Other Staff; exec. Session
Approval of Superintendents contract, exec. Session
Discussion
Financial status and budget
Discussion of SAS&UAS merger and new school application in Syracuse
Superintendent’s report
Discussion Items
Financial status and budget: Budget revisions and new budget is presented. SASCS has been doing great financially. The increases in both teaching and non-teaching staff salaries will have a bigger impact on next years budget, however, school will be able to absorb the increase and increase the staff retention.
Discussion of SAS&UAS merger and New School application in Syracuse: Merging two entities under one entity has been discussed under the feedback received from charter office of NYSED. The board members are agreed to submit for a merger application before the deadline. Merger will allow the schools to be merged under a newly named entity, such as SANY for branding, yet allow the schools keep their individual names, such as Utica academy of Syracuse academy. Also, one board meeting can be held for both schools, which result in increasing efficiency. In addition, a new charter school application under SASCS entity for Syracuse district has been discussed. Instead of applying as a separate entity, the new school will be applied under SASCS entity, which will be the first step toward merging all schools under one entity.
Superintendent’s Report
School Dean Reports
School: Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School
Month: June 2016
Total out of school suspensions K-12:
(ES)
2 (MS)
(HS)
Elementary School
5/6/16 Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School invited moms, grandmothers, aunts, sisters and other important women into the school for our Muffins for Mom event. We had 236 visitors in attendance.
5/9-5/13 During "college week" students completed a variety of activities to learn about college. Classrooms explored college applications, majors/minors of study, and additional activities having students write about life in college.
5/12/16 Elementary students celebrated a variety of cultures during the Annual Cultural Cruise. Each class presented a power point presentation about a given country and used a passport to tour a variety of countries within the building.
5/24/16 Second grade students showcased their talents in a second grade musical. Each class presented a junior play in front of parents, family, and friends.
5/26/16 Thirty-four students in grades 2-4 participated in a Poetry Slam where they shared original work in front of an outdoor audience.
Middle School
On Friday, May 6th, 2016 Miss Bittel's Student Leadership Club hosted a Teen Center Night at SAS Middle School.
On May 9th through the 11th, 2016 the students of the SAS Middle School took a trip to the WCNY building on Fayette Street in Syracuse. While there, they participated in an amazing program called Enterprise America. This is an excerpt from WCNY’s website: Once in the city, students will apply the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and financial and civic literacy skills they have learned to run the city’s 14 businesses and City Hall.
On Wednesday, May 18th, 2016 Ms. Farruggio took the wind players from band club to a performance by the Syracuse Symphoria at the Palace Theater.
On Friday, May 20th, 2016, Miss Bittel had Mr. Francisco Valle (one of our co-teacher's father) come in and present to the students about Mexico.
The Do Something Club has been participating in a shoe cutting party for the organization Sole Hope since February. The students have collectively created 122 sets of shoe uppers to be sent to Uganda. Each shoe upper set will then be assembled by Ugandans in need of a sustainable income. Once completed, the shoes are distributed to children of Eastern Africa to keep their feet safe from infections and jiggers (small sand fleas that enter bare feet and burrow into the skin). The Do Something Club will also be sending a donation of $100.00 to further provide the monetary needs to pay for and purchase the remaining supplies for the shoes. More about Sole Hope, please visit solehope.org.
On Tuesday, May 24th, 2016 the SAS Middle School held its 2nd Dean's List Dinner. Students make the Dean's List by maintaining the High Honor Roll throughout the school year. Twenty-four amazing young people were recognized from grades 5-7. Joining the students were friends and family members for the festivities at Pensabene's Casa Grande in Syracuse.
On Thursday, June 2nd and Friday, June 3rd, 2016 the SAS Middle School students went to Big Dan’s Mini Golf.
On Friday, June 3rd, 2016 twenty two 7th grade students with 2 parents, and 3 teachers went to Philadelphia to learn more about our history. Students took this opportunity to learn about history and Philadephia and have fun during the weekend.
High School
17-May: Dean's Dinner - The Dean’s dinner for the parent and the students who demonstrated outstanding academic performs throughout the year.
18-May: 8th Grade Field Trip: 8th Grade Team took the students to Zoo & SkyZone.
19-May: Field Trip - Mrs. M took 11 junior students to West Point Academy.
20-May: Prom - Mr. D was responsible of organizing the prom.
25-May: NYSED 8 Science Performance Test- Science Performance test administered by Ms. K and Mrs. B
26-May: Staff vs Students Soccer Game Mr. S& Mr. M organized the game, Soccer Club Students vs Teachers.
1-Jun: Common Core Regents - Algebra-2
1-Jun: Regents - Integrated Algebra Regents
2-Jun: Spanish III LOTE Exam. Students sat for the Spanish LOTE Exam for advanced credit
3-Jun: The Wiz! (A musical production) - Ms. McGinnis & Mr. Carver directed the play in Appleseed Productions 116 W. Glen Ave.
4-Jun: The Wiz! (A musical production) - Ms. McGinnis & Mr. Carver directed the play in Appleseed Productions 116 W. Glen Ave.
4-Jun: Suny ESF Summit - SUNY ESF Global Environment students presented their science projects at the summit.
6-Jun: NYSED 8 Science Written Test: All 8th Grade students participated in the NYSED Science Written test.
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: approved 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.
Reconvene Public Session
Motion to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: approved unanimously
Public Comment on Agenda Topics
Board President or designee opens the public comment session on agenda topics.
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 agenda topics.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at 10.26 pm.
Roll Call: approved unanimously