Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 7/10/2018
Place : SAS 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.
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 6/5/2018
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 non instructional staff
3. Approval of updated athletic pay scale
4. Approval of updated administrator pay scale
5. Approval of superintendent contract
6. Approval of updating SAS high school weight room
7. Approval of software development agreement between TED and SANY
8. Approval of Title 4 grant purchases
9. Approval of board member
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. SAS middle school HVAC construction update
4. Old books at SAS high school are being recycled
5. Auto loan for the van at UAS is paid off
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 summary was reviewed for each school
2. Internal audit report: Cash/check procedure review and three recommendations were discussed. Auditor is preparing procedural handouts for the schools as a guidance.
3. SAS middle school HVAC construction update: Terra provided update on middle school HVAC project, which is expected to be completed by August 15. The projects market value is around $550,000 which include complete new HVAC system which is highly energy efficient with increased capacity (should allow summer programing and early start at the school site), increasing school’s insulations and plumbing, which will increase the comfort and decrease the utility cost for the school.
4. SASCCS Work: Terra also completed the painting and flooring of the school site for the new school year, which is around $150K job due to asbestos. In addition, they are working to replace the gym windows for the school, which is expected to cost additional $30-40K, including asbestos removal.
5. Old books at SAS high school are being sold and/or recycled
6. Auto loan for the van at UAS is paid off
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
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 10.14.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 8/14/2018
Place : SAS 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.
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 7/10/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of renewing board membership term
3. Approval of non-renewing or resignation from board membership
4. Approval of new assignment of Treasurer
5. Approval of change order for the SAS high school paving project
6. Approval of updated employee handbook
7. Approval of board policy regarding acquisition of facilities
8. Approval of updated administrator pay scale for Operations Managers
9. Approval of purchasing Business Parkway building in Utica by SANY
10. Approval of ERP Plan for SANY
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. SAS middle school HVAC construction update
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: Since audit started and financial statements were not completed for the year yet, there is not budget and financial reporting for this year.
2. Internal audit report: Internal auditor shared his monthly reports, included cash disbursements, invoice payments, and employee audits. The question asked for how to eliminate payments without P/O.
3. SAS middle school HVAC construction update: The HVAC project is completed as planned, and cooling was tested to bring the school temp down to 68F on a day when outside temp was 85F. The project increased insulation through out the school, plus pipes within school replaced and updated. The project is paid and managed by Terra Science and could have cost around $550K.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
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 8.40 pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 9/11/2018
Place : SAS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.12 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 8/14/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of updated SANY bylaw
3. Approval of replacing Education of Homeless Students policy (#7050) with Educating Students in Temporary Housing.
4. Approval of updated Parental Involvement Policy (#3140)
5. Approval of new Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
6. Approval of appointment of McKinney-Vento liaisons for Utica and Syracuse schools
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Introduction of New admin: SAS-MS Operation manager
3. Internal audit report
4. Finance Committee
5. SANY Admissions policy with ELL preference to all schools
6. High School Academic Data presentation
7. Conflict of Interest Policy distribution and declarations
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 by to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VI. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Financial summaries and dashboards were reviewed and discussed for each schools. Each schools current enrollments vs budgeted enrollments were discussed. Staff vs operational ratios were reviewed for each school.
2. Introduction of New admin: SAS-MS Operation manager
3. Internal audit report: Board reviewed its monthly internal audit report. The exceptions in the area of approval of service receipts were discussed in length due to couple exception occurred in the month.
4. Finance Committee: Board president, treasurer, trustee, Internal auditor, Superintendent, and Asst. Superintendent of Finance. The committee will meet an hours before the BoT meeting to go over finance/purchase related issues and provide recommendations to BoT, which is expected to increase the efficiency of BoT.
5. SANY Admissions policy with ELL preference to all schools with a cap 25%.
6. High School Academic Data Presentation: SAS High School offers AP calculus, AP English Language, AP Literature this year. Regents academic data for 2017-18 was discussed and school’s summer program for preparing students who failed regents in June. HS director will provide comparative data analysis in the next meeting to provide a better picture of HS regents success over the years.
7. Conflict of Interest Policy distribution and declarations: Conflict of interest policy was distributed to all members. In addition, members were asked to declare existing conflicts. Only Dr. Damkaci has such declaration, even though he himself does not have any conflict of interest. He is the BoT member and president for both SANY and Terra Science and Education, and both entities have contractual agreements between them. However, Dr Damkaci or his close family members do not get financial benefits from either of the entities. All other members declared no conflict of interest.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
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 9.29 pm .
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 10/16/2018
Place : Utica Academy High School.
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.12 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 9/11/2018
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
III. Agenda for Finance committee:
1. Bank accounts reconciliation: They reviewed and signed by treasurer and president.
2. Review of payments/purchases: Payment and purchase related motions have been discussed and they were approved with updates as presented below.
3. Utica new school building construction: Possible scenarios and their costs has been discussed.
IV. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of 2017-2018 independent audit reports for SAS, SASC, and UAS
3. Approval of transportation policy (#4221)
4. Approval of foster care transportation policy (#4222)
5. Approval of procurement guidelines for purchases made with federal funds (#4230)
6. Approval of 2017-2018 dashboard payments for SAS
7. Approval of 2017-2018 dashboard payments for SASC from 2018-19 budget
8. Approval of SANY school year between 180 and 195 days and instructional time between 6.5 and 8 hours.
9. Approval of $150 payment to staff and community leaders who referred students with full FTE.
10. Approval of Transitional B certification policy (#6040)
11. Approval of Enrollment policy and application updates with ELL preference
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. 2017-18 independent audit presentation
4. Signing annual code of ethics forms
5. 2017-18 NYSED state test results
6. Quarterly newsletter for public
7. Utica new school building construction
8. New year gift up to $80 per staff
9. Superintendent evaluation
10. Board of Trustees self-evaluation
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
V. Executive Session
Motion by Choose an item, seconded by Choose an item. 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.
VI. Reconvene Public Session
Motion by Choose an item, seconded by Choose an item, to exit the executive session.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously.
VII. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report: Internal report has been shared and discussed with internal auditor. He explained his work regarding internal procedure documents to minimize errors.
3. 2017-18 independent audit presentation: Independent audit was presented to board, and no finding has been reported. Auditor stated that school is in condition in terms of financial management.
4. Signing annual code of ethics forms: Board members were asked to sign code of ethics forms and declare their conflict of interests. Board President declared that his status as president of Terra Science and Education has not been changed, and he has not been paid by Terra, therefore there if no official conflict of interest. Board members did not report any conflict of interest.
5. 2017-18 NYSED state test results: Superintendent provided detailed report for the 2017-18 state test results for all SANY schools in comparison to districts, state and last five years. The school has been improving in its state tests all across, and has been passing the states in more grades. The school is in good trajectory in terms of academic success according to state tests.
6. Quarterly newsletter for public will be created by district office to keep alumni, former parents, and the community.
7. Utica new school building construction: 6 classrooms will be added to existing Frankfort location, and later a larger school wing can be added. There is a land around the existing Frankfort location which will be given to school by Terra to built a school building on the land without additional rent. Details of the agreement will be drafted by the school attorney.
8. New year gift up to $80 per staff: Superintendent is approved to give a gift $80 to all staff members for the year.
9. Superintendent evaluation: Postponed next meeting
10. Board of Trustees self-evaluation: postponed next meeting
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
Activity Report for 2018-19 October to Board of Trustees
SAS
On Tuesday, July 31, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School math instructor traveled to Alfred State University for the New York State STEM Education Collaborative (NYSSEC) STEM Summer Institute. Math instructor and head coach of the #SASCS Robotics Club, was honored with the 2018 Margaret Ashida STEM Leadership Award.
Our elementary students at #SASCS enjoyed three weeks of interactive summer games and projects during our Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School Summer Enrichment Program. The goal of the program was to provide an educational and positive learning experience for our students.
On Wednesday, September 12, 2018 our #SASAtom parents and students joined us for a welcome back to school night. Families visited their student's classroom, spoke with the teachers, visited with one another, and shopped at our book fair.
On Friday, September 14, 2018, #SASAtoms invited their grandparents to share snack-time with them. Grandparents spent the last part of the day with their students and enjoyed activities and quality time with their #SASAtom.
On Tuesday, September 18, 2018, fourth-grade #SASAtoms got the privilege to meet and speak with CenterState CEO and President, Robert Simpson. He spoke to our students about the company, what it means to be a CEO, his personal goals, the company goals and mission, and what they have done so far to help grow our community.
On Monday, September 24, 2018, #SASCS Fourth-Graders visited Beaver Lake in Baldwinsville.
On Monday, September 24, 2018, guest speaker, Azra Gradincic, spoke to the fifth-grade #SASAtoms about growing up during the Bosnian war. Gradincic helped the students make connections with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the articles that the students had been working on.
On Monday, September 24 and Tuesday, September 25, 2018, #SASCS Elementary held our Student of the Month Ceremonies for the month of September.
On Tuesday, September 25, 2018, Ms. Liotta took a group of ninth-graders to two locations around Onondaga Lake to collect water samples. The water collection was for an invasive fish detection program through Cornell University.
On Thursday, September 27, 2018, the #SASCS Elementary school held its Olweus kick-off. Students have been learning about our Olweus program which is a school-wide anti-bullying initiative.
On Friday, September 28, 2018, world-renowned Saxophonist Elan Trotman hosted a Master Class for members of the #SASCS band. Trotman listened to students perform the pieces they are currently working on, provided feedback, and answered questions about the music industry in general.
On Friday, September 28, 2018, the Syracuse Academy of Science held its third annual Science Meets Jazz fundraising dinner. The evening began with demonstrations from the #SASCS Robotics Club, a silent auction featuring a custom piece created by the #SASCS Art Club, and three musical numbers performed by the #SASCS High School band and choir. Headlining the evening was the world-renowned saxophonist, Elan Trotman. Trotman was accompanied by SAMMY award-winning jazz group, E.S.P. Jazz. The audience enjoyed Mr. Trotman's original work and danced the night away with classics from Stevie Wonder.
On Monday, October 1, 2018, The Ned Show visited #SASCS. Ned and our performer, Kathryn, taught us about the power of yet and how we should never give up.
On Monday, October 1, 2018, our third-grade #SASAtoms were visited by Margaret Lane, Executive Education Programs Director at the Maxwell School, and her associate, Magda.
On Thursday, October 4, 2018, Marc Mero who is former WWE IC Wrestling Champion visited spoke to our high school students. "The more you see your dreams and goals, the more likely they are to happen. Take action toward your goals."
On Wednesday, October 10, 2018, first-grade #SASAtoms hopped on over to Tim's Pumpkin Patch in Marietta. The students enjoyed a tractor ride around the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, interacting with farm animals, and enjoyed some fresh apple cider and donuts.
On Thursday, October 11, 2018, our #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled Literacy Night. Families were invited to explore popularly themed classrooms like Pete the Cat, Wonder, and Dr. Seuss.
On Saturday, October 13, 2018, the #SASCS Robotics team competed in the CNY Steamboat Challenge at the MOST museum. #SASAtoms entered two middle school and five high school teams. Students in the competition were challenged to make and race steamboats powered by the heat of a single tea-light candle. Around twenty-nine teams from across Central New York participated in the event. #SASCS had a strong showing and was awarded First and Second Place in Division 2, and swept Second, Third, and Fourth Place in Division 3.
SAS Citizenship
On Wednesday, July 18, 2018, the leadership team at #SASCCS celebrated the opening of our brand new library at the Syracuse Academy of Science and Citizenship Elementary School. The library was made possible by community support along with grants from the Central New York Community Foundation.
During the month of July 2018, our #SASCCS scholars participated in a summer enrichment program. Students spent time getting to know one another by engaging in purposeful play based centers. #SASCAtoms of all ages used their problem-solving skills to answer challenging math questions.
On Friday, September 14, 2018, #SASCCS invited our grandparents to our Granola Bars for Grandparents event. Over 100 grandparents joined us for tasty granola bars and enjoyed time with their #SASCAtoms.
On Wednesday, September 19 and Thursday, September 20, 2018, the third and first graders, respectively, from #SASCCS visited the Beak and Skiff Apple Hill Campus.
On Wednesday, September 26, 2018, #SASCCS students, families and staff came together for Back to School Night. Our #SASCAtoms enjoyed taking their families on a scavenger hunt through the school.
On Tuesday, September 25, 2018, Helping Hounds dog rescue visited #SASCCS.
Every Friday at #SASCCS the whole school gathers together as a community to celebrate the #OtherPeopleMatter mindset. #SASCCS is a participating Positivity Project school, a project aimed at empowering students to build positive relationships.
UAS
On Friday, July 6 and Saturday, July 7, 2018, #UASAtoms attended the 2018 BoilerMaker Expo in Utica, New York.
On Saturday, August 4, 2018, the scholars at #UASCS will be washing cars from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m at the New Hartford Stewart's Shops.
On Thursday, September 20, 2018 #UASCS Middle School hosted a Curriculum Night.
On Monday, September 24, 2018 #UASCS held its monthly assembly and Terra Scholarship award ceremony.
On Monday, September 24, 2018, Mowhawk Valley Community College President, Dr. Vanwagoner, spoke to #UASCS eleventh and twelfth graders about college readiness and the importance of local community involvement.
On Friday, September 28, 2018, #UASCS Middle School students went on the "Good Vibes Only" trip. The purpose of the Good Vibes Only Trip was to spark a discussion around what it means to be part of a community and provide scholars with the opportunity to get to know each other better and create more positive experiences outside of the classroom.
On Thursday, October 11, 2018, the #UASCS Community came together to celebrate Hispanic Culture night.
On Friday, October 12, 2018, seventh-grade #UASAtoms attended the Manufacturing Day at SUNY Polytechnic Institute.
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 9.29 pm.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 11/13/2018
Place : SAS 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.
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 10/16/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda for Finance committee
1. Bank accounts reconciliation
2. Review of payments
3. Utica new school building construction
IV. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of updated teacher dashboard for 2018-19
3. Approval of Budget Revision for UAS
4. Approval of Copier Lease for SASES
5. Approval of 990
6. Approval of District Emergency Response Plan
7. Approval of Health Insurance Renewal
8. Approval of Dental Insurance Renewal
9. Approval of Vision Insurance Renewal
10. Approval LTD Insurance Renewal
11. Approval of Life Insurance
12. Approval of US Security Service Proposal
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. Utica new school building construction
4. Signing annual code of ethics forms
5. Superintendent evaluation
6. Board of Trustees self-evaluation
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
V. 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.
VI. Reconvene Public Session
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VII. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Financial summaries and dashboard for all schools
2. Internal audit report: It has been reported and discussed, no major issues reported.
3. Utica new school building construction: Current need of the school has been discussed and an addition is planned around the existing Frankford building since all other options are exhausted in Utica City.
4. Signing annual code of ethics forms: Board members were given code of ethics forms for signature.
5. Superintendent evaluation: Board members evaluated the superintendent and found him meeting expectations in all areas and exceeding in some areas, including outreach and financials.
6. Board of Trustees self-evaluation: Board members evaluated their process. Board has improved its meetings over a year and current system works better compared to last year. In addition, board implemented finance committee for increasing the efficiency of the board meeting and process.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
Activity Report
1. On Friday, October 5, 2018, Lockheed Martin, an American global aerospace, defense, security and advanced technologies company, hosted #SASCS high school 11th and 12th grade students.
2. On Thursday, October 11, 2018, #SAS high school students traveled to the NYS Fairgrounds for Construction Career Day, an event put together to introduce high school students to a wide assortment of career opportunities within the construction industries.
3. On Friday, October 12, 2018, our Kindergartners explored Tim's Pumpkin Patch in Marietta.
4. On Tuesday, October 16, 2018, second grade #SASAtoms enjoyed a fun-filled day at Golub's Pumpkin Farm.
5. On Thursday, October 18, 2018, It was our third grader's turn to Tim's Pumpkin Patch.
6. On Friday, October 19, 2018, sixth grade #SASAtoms went on a field trip to Howe Caverns.
7. On Monday, 22 and Tuesday, October 23, 2018, #SASCS elementary first graders trekked to Dutch Hill Maple Farms in Tully, NY where #SASAtoms learned about the process of making maple syrup.
8. On Tuesday, October 23, 2018, #SASAtoms visited the Syracuse University Education Center.
9. On Wednesday, October 24, 2018, #SASAtoms toured Fort Rickey Children's Discover Zoo, in Rome, NY.
10. On Wednesday, October 24, 2018, the #SASCS high school community came together against bullying.
11. On Thursday, October 25, 2018, the fourth grade #SASAtoms took a trip to Abbott's farm.
12. On Thursday, October 25, 2018 the Syracuse Astronomical Society visited the #SASCS fourth graders and did a telescope presentation.
13. On Tuesday, October 30, The #SASCS Elementary October Student of the Month Ceremony awarded students for their trustworthiness.
14. On Wednesday, October 31, 2018, our #SASAtoms celebrated Fall in style. Our #SASCS classrooms were filled with laughter and treats, followed by a costume parade to spooky music around the school for their parents.
15. On Friday, November 2, 2018, The #SASAtoms had a strong showing at the Annual High School Science Fair, showcasing diverse projects from all levels at the High School.
16. On Friday, November 2, 2018, we hosted a Financial Information Session for our 12th grade #SASAtoms and their families. LaSonya Griggs, Associate Dean of Enrollment Management at Tompkins Cortland Community College, was our speaker.
17. On Friday, November 2, 2018, #SASCS Art Club and Shehoop Club went on a field trip to the Corning Museum of Glass.
18. On Monday, November 5, 2018, first grade #SASAtoms asked, "How is clay made?" and more while visiting Feats of Clay in Manlius, NY.
19. The #SASCS mentoring program recruits, trains, and matches high school students to mentor elementary students located at the Syracuse Academy of Science Elementary School.
SAS Citizenship
1. On Wednesday, October 17, 2018, the #SASCCS second grade #SASCAtoms went to McHarrie Life Senior Community Syracuse Home to visit the elderly. The students read books to the ladies and gentlemen of Syracuse Home.
2. On Friday, November 2, 2018. Mrs. Touranjoe and Ms. Holgate delivered the socks that were donated by the Citizenship Academy for Socktober. The adult socks were brought to the Golisano Foundation and the children's socks were brought to the Children's Consortium. In total, our school collected 342 pairs of socks to families in need (162 adult socks and 180 children socks)!
3. On Thursday, November 8, 2018, the #SASCCS kindergarten classes took a field trip to the Ultimate Goal.
1. On Wednesday, October 10, 2018, our three #UASCS Kindergarten classes went on a trip to North Star Orchards.
2. On Thursday, October 11, 2018, #UASAtoms attended our monthly assembly where we come together as a school community to celebrate students.
3. On Wednesday, October 17, 2018, #UASCS parents participated in the joy and love of literacy with their #UASAtoms in the classroom.
4. On Friday, October 19, 2018, blue skies and perfect fall weather welcomed #UASCS sophomores to the Adirondacks. Scholars eagerly faced the challenge of climbing Bald Mountain, where they encountered fantastic fall foliage, crisp fresh air, and panoramic views.
5. On Friday, October 19, 2018, #UASAtoms traveled back in time to the Civil War era at The Farmer's Museum in Cooperstown, NY.
6. On Friday, October 19, 2018, first grade #UASAtoms attended their first class field trip to Fort Rickey Children's Discover Zoo, in Rome, NY.
7. On Saturday, October 20, 2018, #UASCS scholars participated in the Oneida County Intergenerational Fall Clean-up Weekend.
8. On Monday, October 22, 2018, the Mayor of Utica, Robert Palmieri, toured our new Elementary school and spoke to our Kindergarten class.
9. On Monday, October 22, 2018 #UASCS held the October Assembly.
10. On Wednesday, October 24, 2018, Mayor of Utica, Robert Palmieri, Department Heads, City workers and #UASCS Scholars conducted Quality of Life sweeps – cleaning the west Utica neighborhood streets.
11. On Friday, October 26, 2018 #UASCS Middle School hosted the Glowing Party.
12. On Tuesday, October 30, 2018 #UASCS middle school organized a field trip to Pumpkin Hollow.
13. It was no ordinary Wednesday at #UASCS on October 31. On this Wednesday, anyone visiting might not have recognized the #UASAtoms walking through the halls. Scholars donated money to the 10th grade class and dressed up for Halloween.
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 9.10pm.
Roll Call: adopted unanimously.
Science Academies of New York (SANY) Charter Schools
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Date : 12/11/2018
Place : SAS High School
I. The regular meeting was called to order at 7.00 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 11/13/2018
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
III. Agenda for Finance committee
1. Bank accounts reconciliation – reviewed and approved
2. Review of payments – reviewed and approved
3. Utica new school building construction –possible scenarios were discussed
IV. Agenda
1. Approval of new hires for SAS, SASC, and UAS
2. Approval of updated school dean’s dashboard for 2018-19
3. Approval of Short Term Disability
Discussion
1. Financial status and budget
2. Internal audit report
3. Academic data
4. Linda Spencer, new board member candidate
5. Utica new school building construction and land use agreement between SANY and Terra
6. CSP Grant management and planning by Dr Hayali, $5890 is paid from grant funding
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
V. 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.
VI. Reconvene Public Session
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously
VII. Discussion Items
1. Financial status and budget: Income statement was reviewed. Few overspent line items were explained as not disbursed among schools, such as audit cost.
2. Internal audit report: Internal audit report was discussed. There are no major issues. Exceptions were discussed. School will provide an updated IT recovery plan which will come for board approval. Internal auditor is looking more into extracurricular activity funds, their process, and use.
3. Academic data: Star test results for all schools for grades 3-8 has been discussed. Math results are very good, however SAS 5 and 8 grades ELA has issues which should be addressed. SASC 3rd graders ELA and Math scores are low as well.
4. Linda Spencer, new board member candidate: Board president introduced Mrs. Spencer as a possible candidate for SANY board. She was elected to serve on board before, however she could not serve since she was working at the school. She worked at SAS since 2003 at various positions, including teacher and academic officer, etc.
5. Utica new school building construction and land use agreement between SANY and Terra: Board discussed possible agreement for the addition at Frankford site. School will get state and attorney feedback on possible agreement before moving forward. The school have searched for many possible locations but there no availability at the moment and building at Frankford site might be the best option.
6. CSP Grant management and planning by Superintendent, $5,890 is paid from grant funding. Leftover from the grant should be spent as payroll and Superintendent is paid as manager of the grant to utilize the left over funding.
I. Superintendent’s Report
SANY Enrollment, Demographics, and Suspensions
Activity Report
SAS
On Friday, November 9, 2018, #SASAtoms celebrated their first marking period achievements. Students were awarded for their honor roll and high honor roll status.
On Saturday, November 10, 2018 the #SASCS Robotics Team attended the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition at the MOST museum. #SASAtoms received the First, Third and Fourth Place in Category 3 and First Place in Category 2 at the CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition. We also received the best name award in category 3.
#SASCS Middle School selected seven students to participate in the 2018-2019 Middle School Student Council.
On Tuesday, November 13, 2018, the #SASCS Middle School assembled as a community to celebrate student achievement. #SASAtoms were honored for the following; Demonstrating Citizenship, Most Improved, Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, Student of the Month, Best Academic and our Golden Atom.
On Wednesday, November 14, 2018, second grade students from #SASCS ventured up the hill to Van Duyn Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.
On Thursday, November 15, 2018, our Kindergartners enjoyed a visit from Syracuse Common Councilor Susan Boyle.
On Thursday, November 15, 2018, #SASCS High School hosted a College Fair for our eighth through 12th grade students. 21 colleges and/or universities from across the region attended the fair, as well as officers from the U.S. Army.
Congratulations to Soma Coker and Huda Ali for their winning entries in the 2018 City Hall Winter Wonderland Art Competition. Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh will present Coker and Ali with their awards this Friday, November 23, 2018, at the annual Clinton Square tree lighting ceremony.
On Thursday, November 15, 2018, Guest speaker, Rob Ringham an Enterprise AI Architect from Avanade, asked our scholars a few questions.
On Tuesday, November 20, 2018, #SASCS 4th grade #SASAtoms and their families enjoyed the 2nd Annual Cultural Celebration in our cafeteria. At least 15 different family traditions and cultures were represented with a dish.
On Monday, November 25, 2018, after a restful break, second grade #SASAtoms from Syracuse Academy of Science were able to go on a field trip to The Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.
On Wednesday, November 28, 2018, the #SASCS elementary community awarded #SASAtoms who displayed outstanding citizenship.
On Thursday, November 29, 2018, #SASCS Middle School hosted their first Teen Center Night of the school year.
On Wednesday, November 28, 2018, ten of our #SASAtom fifth graders escaped the snowy weather for a few hours and enjoyed a field trip to Azteca Mexican Restaurant.
On Thursday, November 29, 2018, the Director of National Security Studies at the Maxwell School, Bill Smullen, came to read to our first grade #SASAtoms.
Our #SASAtoms gathered together in peace with the Wacheva Dance and Drum Studio CNY to participate in an African Drumming and Dancing workshop.
On Tuesday, December 4, 2018, staff at the #SASCS middle school celebrated our November Middle School Student of the Month Award Winners.
On Thursday, December 7, 2018, Onondaga County Sheriff, Eugene J. Conway, paid a visit to #SASCS to speak with #SASAtoms currently enrolled in the Street Law course
SAS Citizenship
On Friday, November 16, 2018, #SASCCS kindergarteners has a blast making their own pizza.
On Monday, November 19, 2018, #SASCCS second graders took a trip to the SU Dome. They learned a lot about the roof, air flow and how the building workers change from football to basketball.
During the month of November, the 3rd graders at Syracuse Academy of Science and Citizenship attended a field trip to the Johnson Art Museum at Cornell University.
On Thursday, November 15, 2018, #SASCCS first graders took a field trip to Ultimate Goal.
On Thursday, November 29, 2018, #SASCCS hosted their 2nd book fair and literacy night.
UAS
On Wednesday, November 7, 2018, #UASCS families and their Atoms enjoyed a night of math activities with their teachers in the classroom.
On Friday, November 9, 2018, #UASCS High School held its First Annual Veterans Appreciation Program. Nine veterans were honored and thanked by the #UASCS community for their service and the sacrifices they made for this country.
On Saturday, November 10, 2018 #UASCS middle school students participated in CNY Bridges Build 'Em & Bust 'Em competition at the Museum of Science & Technology - MOST. Each #UASAtom received a participation certification, but more importantly, they utilized their STEM skills as this project leading them to develop their engineering skills.
On Wednesday, November 14, 2018, #UASCS elementary students and their families celebrated during the November Student of the Month ceremony.
On Tuesday, November 20, 2018, #UASCS ninth graders voyaged to the Munson Williams Proctor Art Institute in Utica to study the Mythology Exhibit.
On Tuesday, November 20, 2018, UASCS Scholars took time and delivered turkeys to houses that might not have enough to enjoy the holiday.
On Monday, November 26, 2018, Utica City 4th District Councilman, Joseph Marino, stopped at #UASCS to tour the elementary and high school.
On Friday, November 30, 2018, our eighth grade scholars visited either SUNY Oneonta or Hartwick College.
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 adjourn the meeting at 8.17 pm.
Roll Call: Adopted unanimously