The New York State Legal Services Initiative, Washington County Office for Aging & NY Connects and SAIL are providing a series of free presentations on legal issues for the public and professionals. These sessions are going to be presented at the Greenwich Free Library from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm in the Community Room.

Stephanie Ball

Training & Resource Development Coordinator

Washington County Office for the Aging

& Disability Resource Center

383 Broadway

Fort Edward, NY 12828

Phone 518-746-2572 / Fax 518-746-2418

Greenwich CSD Improves School Safety with New Emergency Response Safety System

District partners with Ohio company to implement cost-effective, cloud-based technology that helps schools enhance their safety programs.

Greenwich, NY – August 14, 2018 – In an effort to further improve the safety of Greenwich CSD, the district has implemented a new emergency response safety system that better prepares and assists school officials and first responders before, during and after a crisis.

The system – known as NaviGate Prepared® –uses cloud-based technology to securely organize important emergency preparedness plans and associated information, such as call lists, personnel photos, building maps, color-coded floor plans and 360-degree photographs of important building areas, like emergency resources, hallways and rooms.

Highly secure, the system offers the district’s authorized users and area first responders, including 911 dispatchers, immediate, real-time access to this imperative safety information – from any Web-authorized device. No matter the severity of the situation, emergency response teams can access the cloud-based system, even if a building is inaccessible.

“We are excited to bring this advanced, cloud-based, school security system to the Greenwich Central School District.” said Greenwich Superintendent Mark Fish.  “The NaviGate Prepared system provides a variety of components that will support our building and district level safety teams in planning, train staff to respond to a variety of situations, and interact with emergency response personnel in the event of an actual emergency on campus.”

In an emergency, NaviGate Prepared includes the ability to integrate floor plans and reunification procedures, tap into live security camera feeds and quickly locate key resources, such as gas, water and electrical shut-off valves, entrances and exits, designated evacuation sites, individual classroom numbers and more.

Additionally, the product features an integrated and secure mobile application. The mobile app allows staff to account for students by name while providing instant access to emergency and crisis plans for use during training drills and emergencies.

In addition to heightening school safety, NaviGate Prepared also aids in the submission of state-required annual safety planning documentation and provides school administrators the ability to effectively schedule, manage and track annual safety training drill requirements.

NaviGate Prepared has been implemented in hundreds of schools throughout the nation and is SAFETY Act Designated as an anti-terrorism-level technology by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information, visit www.NaviGatePrepared.com.

About NaviGate Prepared®

NaviGate Prepared® is a proven school safety emergency response system designed to assist and prepare school officials and first responders for crisis situations. The secure, cloud-based platform offers 911 dispatch centers and emergency personnel real-time Internet access of a school’s facility and safety information before, during and after a crisis. Developed by Ohio-based Lauren Innovations, NaviGate Prepared is SAFETY Act Designated as an anti-terrorism-level technology by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information, visit www.NaviGatePrepared.com.

Greenwich Community Activity Fair 2018 – Google Docs

Greenwich Central School District’s Wellness Committee presents:

2nd Greenwich Community Activity Fair 2018

Tuesday, September 25, 2018  5 PM-7 PM- This year held in conjunction with Greenwich Primary and Middle Grade Back-to-School Night

The goal of the Community Activity Fair is to bring community partners to school in order to showcase the full extent of activities, services, and resources that are available to students and families in the Greenwich School District community.

All Greenwich Central School District Families are encouraged to attend this event.

Are you part of an organization that would like to be on hand to share?  Click here to register to participate.

Press Release- Greenwich CSD Office of Superintendent Mark Fish

August 14, 2018

After multiple meetings, discussions, and a review of research by the school district administrative team, on Monday evening the Greenwich Board of Education approved the recommendation of Superintendent Mark Fish to engage the services of Special Patrol Officer Kevin Saunders through the Washington County Sheriff’s Department.  Officer Saunders is a highly qualified, recently retired veteran of the New York State Police. He attended a full week of School Resource Officer training this summer as part of County Sheriff Jeff Murphy’s new Special Patrol Officer program. “In Officer Saunders we are incredibly fortunate to have a retired New York State Trooper, Greenwich resident and father of a Greenwich student available and interested in serving the school community in this capacity,” said Superintendent Fish.  

Officer Saunders plans to be highly visible on campus throughout the school day and at many special events.  He looks forward to building positive relationships and the opportunity to engage and support students, families, faculty and staff as part of the district’s Safety Team. In addition to being able to immediately respond in the event of a school emergency,  he will also be providing proactive services to the district such as: expert safety and security planning on district and building level teams; collaborative prevention services in conjunction with school mental health and administrative professionals; safety programs for students in classrooms and assemblies; consultations with students and families;  a resource for building administrators and a liaison with police and other agencies. Officer Saunders officially starts in the Greenwich Central School District on September 4th.

ACTION REQUIRED

Updating School Building-Level Emergency Response Plans for the 2018-19 School Year (attachment)

• Education Law §2801-a and Commissioner’s regulation §155.17 require that each public school and BOCES develop and annually update a confidential building-level Emergency Response Plan (ERP) and submit to both the State Police and local law enforcement within 30 days of adoption, but no later than October 15.
• Last school year, schools fulfilled the requirement to submit building-level ERPs to the State Police by submitting plans electronically via the New York State Education Department (NYSED) business portal.
• For the 2018-19 school year, administrators must review the plan submitted in 2017-18, make any necessary revisions, including uploading floor plans as a .pdf file, revising contact information and team members, updating any changes in procedures, etc.
• As was the case last year, submitting building-level ERPs via the online application will fulfill the requirement to submit the plan to the State Police. School officials must continue to share a copy of the building-level ERP with local law enforcement.
• Additional information about the electronic submission process is included in the attached memo.
• If you have questions or problems accessing the business portal or the SED Monitoring and Vendor Performance System, please contact the SEDDAS helpdesk at SEDDAS@nysed.gov or the office of Student Support Services at StudentSupportServices@nysed.gov.  If you have questions about the Building-Level Emergency Response Plan requirements, please contact info@safeschools.ny.gov.

FYI

Healthy Minds, Healthy School, Healthy New York: Advancing Mental Health in Schools, Families and Communities Conference and Annual Awards Dinner on October 18, 2018.  (attachment)

• Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS) is sponsoring this exciting conference, and announcing registration is open.   Click here to Register Online

• 2018 is a milestone for both mental health and education policy in schools with the recent implementation of the Mental Health Education in Schools Law.
• Experts from across New York and the country will discuss operationalizing this landmark law.
• Guests speakers include Education Commissioner, MaryEllen Elia,  Mental Health Commissioner, Ann Sullivan, M.D., and Mark Brackett, PH.D, Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, and one of the nation’s leading experts on Emotional Learning in Schools.
• Statewide leadership of the education community, expert mental health advocates and professionals, and other content experts within the mental health and education community will be presenting.
• This conference is tailored for mental health advocates and professionals, educators, school administrators, School Board Members, peers, family members, representatives of state and local government, and all interested stakeholders.
• MHANYS Brochure is attached for additional information.

MUST KNOW

APPR Update (attachment)

• You are receiving this communication to update you on the 2017-18 APPR Implementation Certification form; the APPR data collection and reporting timelines and requirements; and the APPR review and approval processes for 2018-19 school year material changes.
• See attached memorandum titled, “2017-18 APPR Deadline and Timeline Memo.pdf” for further information.
• See Education Law §3012-d APPR Guidance Document and other resources related to Education Law §3012-d  for further information on evaluation ratings resulting from APPR plans approved pursuant to Education Law §3012-d. Helpful information for the closeout of 2017-18 APPR  is also posted on EngageNY.
• If you have any questions or require technical assistance with your APPR plan, please contact EducatorEval@nysed.gov. 

MUST KNOW

Important Policy Change to the Smart Schools Bond Act— Hardware, Software, License and Fees Policy

• In order to better serve school districts and special education programs under the Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA), we have sought and obtained the approval of the State’s bond attorneys to expand the list of eligible capital items.   Eligible items now include customary and usual on-line diagnostic and support services for approved hardware items.  Initially, these items were considered operational expenses like traditional service plans, as opposed to hardware warranties that are purchased at the same time as the equipment.  However, we asked that this be reconsidered.  Counsel determined that such services are integral to the warranties to allow the remote diagnosis and determination of whether to repair or replace hardware under the warranty.   As a primary goal of the SSBA program is to ensure that such items are protected and able to continue serving their educational purposes, these services are now made allowable.
• The revised policy allows school districts to purchase on-line service, diagnostic, support and software upgrade plans if they are required to enable the hardware to operate optimally over that period and to directly support the intended educational purpose(s) of the SSBA plan.
• Such plans must be included with, and for the same term as, multi-year extended repair and/or replacement warranties.
• Such plans must be purchased at the same time as the initial hardware purchase.
• For full details regarding the changes, please review the revised policy: SSBA Hardware, Software, License and Fees Policy.
• Questions related to the Smart Schools Bond Act may be emailed to smartschools@nysed.gov or by phone at 518-474-2487.

FYI

Part 154 Comprehensive ELL Education Plan (CEEP) (attachment)

• Under CR Part 154, all LEAs are required to develop a Comprehensive ELL Education Plan (CEEP) to meet the educational needs of ELLs/MLLs (CR Part 154-2[b]) and to submit an annual Data/Information Report as required under CR Part 154-2[c]. All LEAs must keep their completed CEEPs on file in the LEAs’ main office and make them available for review upon request by the New York State Education Department.
• Please see the attached memo titled, “Memo-2018 CR Part 154 CEEP Reporting Requirements.pdf”, for additional information and details on how to submit the CEEP and the Data/Information Report.
• For assistance in the completion of these required reports, you may contact our offices in Albany at (518) 474-8775 and in NYC at (718) 722-2445 or email us at obewl@nysed.gov.  The Regional Bilingual Education Resource Networks (RBERNs) are also available to provide technical assistance and support. Information on your regional RBERN can be found here: Regional Support/RBERNS.

Declining Student Resilience: A Serious Problem for Colleges

College personnel everywhere are struggling with students’ increased neediness.

“If we want to prepare our kids for college—or for anything else in life!—we have to counter these social forces. We have to give our children the freedom, which children have always enjoyed in the past, to get away from adults so they can practice being adults—that is, practice taking responsibility for themselves.”

Greenwich Central School District is seeking a School Monitor for Cafeteria/Recess 

Leads, coordinates and participates in facilitating and overseeing children’s  safety, behavior, and play in indoor and outdoor settings throughout the school year.  Two hours per day/$11.10 per hour.

Please contact the District Office for an application.  (518) 692-9542 ext. 6800

2016_pop_survey_tobacco_and_e-cigarettes

parent-teacher-ecig-508

Greenwich Free Library Newsletter

MUST KNOW

Release of the 2018-19 SIRS Manual

• The 2018-19 Student Information Repository System (SIRS) guidance manual will be released on the Information and Reporting Services (IRS) website later this month.
• The information in the 2018-19 SIRS Manual provides guidance on reporting data to the Department via the Student Information Repository System that provides a single source of standardized individual student records for analysis at the local, regional, and State levels to improve student performance and to meet State and federal reporting and accountability requirements.
• Local Education Agencies (LEAs) including approved private schools that provide educational services to court-placed students pursuant to Article 81 and independent, nonpublic schools with students who participate in State assessments and/or issue Regents or local diplomas must report these data using the SIRS.
• Level 1 Regional Information Centers support the movement of LEA data.  Please reach out to your Regional Level 1 Center as needed throughout the year for assistance with data collection and reporting.
• Questions regarding the 2018-19 SIRS manual, may be directed to the Office of Information and Reporting Services (IRS) at (518) 474-7965.

MUST KNOW

Collection of 2017-18 school year School Safety and Educational Climate (SSEC) Incident Counts (attachment) – REMINDER

• The deadline is Friday, July 20, 2018, for public schools and districts, charter schools and BOCES who have not been previously notified that they are on the Persistently Dangerous (PD) or Potentially Persistently Dangerous (PPD) list to report aggregate incident counts via the online reporting application within the IRS Data Exchange or “IDEx.”  IDEx is accessed through the NYSED Application Business Portal (Application Business Portal).
• Please see the June 15, 2018 “SSEC reporting Memo 2017-18.pdf” document from the office of Student Support Services.
• If you have difficulty accessing the online reporting form, please visit IRS at BEDS & VADIR/DASA Help Center.
• Specific questions regarding SSEC reporting may be directed to the Office of Student Support Services at (518) 486-6090 or SSEC@nysed.gov.

FYI

School Safety and School Climate Training for School and District Staff

• In August, the New York State Center for School Safety (NYSCFSS) will conduct regional training across New York State related to school safety and climate, and data reporting. The NYSCFSS is a professional development and technical assistance center contracted by the Department to provide direct support to schools and districts in creating and maintaining safe, supportive and healthy learning environments.
• To learn more about the training or to register, please visit: New York State Center for School Safety.
• Questions may be directed to the Office of Student Support Services at (518) 486-6090 or at SSEC@nysed.gov.

FYI

School Mental Health Resource and Training Center

• The Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS) has established the School Mental Health Resource and Training Center (mentalhealthednys.org) to support New York State schools to comply with the new law requiring mental health instruction as part of the K-12 health education program.
• School Mental Health Resource and Training Center resources include but are not limited to: identification of resources and lessons plans; opportunities for professional development; information for youth, parents and community partners; and strategies for establishing community partnerships.
• Additionally, the New York State Education Department’s Mental Health Education Literacy in Schools: Linking to A Continuum of Well-Being Comprehensive Guide is located on the following websites:
  • Office of Student Support Services School Health Services
  • Office of Curriculum and Instruction Mental Health Education
• Questions may be directed to the Office of Student Support Services at (518) 486-6090 or at SSEC@nysed.gov.

FYI

The New York State Education Department has issued an announcement of funding opportunity for the Teachers of Tomorrow: Science, Mathematics, Bilingual Education, and English as a New Language Tuition Reimbursement Program (attachment) – REMINDER

• Grant announcement GCtotrfp2018-2020 is posted on the Teachers of Tomorrow Grant website.
• Eligible applicants are school districts that (a) are identified as experiencing a shortage of teachers in science, mathematics, bilingual education, and/or English as a new language, and (b) have at least one low-performing school.  See Eligible Applicants and Allocation of Funds for a list of eligible districts and allocated funding amounts on pages 10-12.
• All applications must be postmarked by Monday, August 6, 2018.
• Applications will be disqualified if they fail to provide all required documents by the application deadline. Required documents are listed on page 20 of the announcement of funding opportunity, under the heading Application Checklist.
• For additional information, please review the full Announcement of Funding Opportunity.

FYI

Streamlining School District Planning & Reporting: School Reporting Requirements (SRR) web-based system

• The School Reporting Requirements (SRR) web-based system provides school districts, charter schools, and BOCES with a single access list of reporting requirements, pertaining to educational and financial plans, applications, reports, and data for Prekindergarten through Grade 12 that must be submitted to the New York State Education Department.
• To access the School Reporting Requirements, visit School Reporting Requirements (SRR) web-based system. For further information regarding the requirements, access the SRR website at  School Reporting Requirements.
• Please send questions on the content of the requirements to the appropriate New York State Education Department program office listed in the SRR system.

FYI

SIRS Data Collection, Level 2 Data Warehouse closes Friday, August 24, 2018

• NYSED is requiring the submission of all SIRS data to the L2 Container (the L2 Data Warehouse) by all public and participating religious and independent schools by Friday, August 24, 2018.
• No changes to any data from any institution or Level 1 will be accepted after this deadline.
• There will be no Level 0, 3-8 Summer Cleanup process after this deadline.
• Level 0 Assessment clean up bulk upload (93, 97, 99) due August 13, 2018 – August 17, 2018. Level 0 Assessment clean up (Manual via Datasupport/Level 0) due August 20, 2018 – August 23, 2018. Please work with your Level 1 Data Warehouse Regional Support Center for any 3-8 or NYSESLAT data cleanup.
• All accountability and all required State and federal reporting will be made based on the data submitted by LEAs to the L2 container as of the reporting deadline, August 24, 2018. 

FYI

July Edition of NYS Ed Tech Innovators, a Newsletter from the Office of Educational Design & Technology

• The Office of Educational Design and Technology has released the fifth edition of its newsletter, NYS Ed Tech Innovators.  The newsletter contains articles describing innovative educational technology programs that have been, or are currently being, implemented in New York State schools.
• NYS Ed Tech Innovators is posted to the Office of Educational Design and Technology’s website and will be sent via the Office’s listserv.
• The Office is actively requesting articles for future newsletters.  Articles can be submitted to edtech@nysed.gov at any time.  Please see Guidance for more information.
• Questions regarding NYS Ed Tech Innovators Monthly may be directed to the Office of Educational Design & Technology at 518-474-5461 or edtech@nysed.gov

FYI

2017-2018 Presidential Award of Excellence in Math and Science Teaching

• The New York State Education Department is pleased to announce the selection of finalists for the 2017-2018 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) at the elementary school level, grades K-6. The PAEMST Program was established in 1983 by The White House and is sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Each year the President of the United States recognizes outstanding teachers in Mathematics and Science (including computer science) from across the nation.
• The finalists were chosen by a state selection committee consisting of teachers, district level personnel, representatives from higher education and past awardees.  Each finalist demonstrated content knowledge, as well as effective use of instructional methods and assessments to evaluate, monitor and improve student learning. The finalists also serve as leaders in education outside of the classroom.  For this round, New York State was able to recognize up to three Mathematics finalists and up to three Science finalists whose applications were then forwarded to a PAEMST Review and Selection Committee for final determination of award winners from each state.

2017-2018 PAEMST New York State Mathematics Finalists (K-6)

• Lynda Brennan; Richard P. Connor Elementary School, Suffern/Ramapo Central School District; Airmont New York
• Marianne Strayton; Woodglen Elementary School, Clarkstown Central School District; Valley Cottage New York
• Wendy Rossberg; Oaks School #3, Oceanside School District; Valley Stream New York

2017-2018 PAEMST New York State Science Finalists (K-6)

• Annelise Bopp; Sodus Intermediate School, Sodus Central School District; Sodus New York
• Jeanine Doxsee; Franklin Early Childhood Center, Hewlett-Woodmere School District; Happauge New York

• For more information on the award process please visit Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
• Questions regarding the PAEMST state award cycle may be directed to the Office of Curriculum and Instruction, at 518-474-5922 or emscurric@nysed.gov or info@paemst.org.

FYI

2016 New York State Awardees Presidential Award of Excellence in Math and Science Teaching

• On June 25, 2018 the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), with the National Science Foundation (NSF), announced 104 awardees that will be honored with 2016 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST award alternates years between kindergarten through sixth grade and seventh-12th grade teachers. This year, on the award’s 35th anniversary, kindergarten through sixth grade teachers from the 2016 award cycle will be honored.
• Awardees for the Presidential Award of Excellence in Math and Science Teaching complete a rigorous application process that requires them to demonstrate their excellence in content knowledge and ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments. A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists and educators at the state and national levels assess the applications before recommending nominees to OSTP. Teachers are selected at both levels based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education.

NEW YORK 2016 Presidential Award of Excellence in Math and Science Awardees

ü  Mathematics: Kristen Smith, Democracy Prep Charter Middle School; Democracy Prep Public Schools; New York New York.

ü  Science: Tayana Thadal; Washington-Rose Elementary School, Roosevelt Central School District; Levittown New York

• For more information on the award process and 2016 awardees please visit Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.  Questions regarding the PAEMST state award cycle may be directed to the Office of Curriculum and Instruction, at 518-474-5922 or emscurric@nysed.gov or info@paemst.org.

FYI

Title I School & Community Services to Launch “Title Talk on Tuesdays” Weekly Technical Assistance Sessions Throughout the Summer

• Starting on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 the Title I School and Community Services Office will begin providing a new weekly series of professional development and technical assistance webinars called “Title Talk Tuesdays” for LEA staff responsible for programmatic and fiscal oversight of ESSA-Funded programs.
• Each weekly webinar will focus on a different topic, including but not limited to: the 2018-2019 Consolidated Application for ESSA-Funded Programs, Allocating Title I Funds to Public Schools, Consultation with Private Schools, Title I Parent and Family Engagement, and more.
• Each weekly call will include a short period of background information about the topic and time for LEA representatives to submit questions during a live Question and Answer period.
• A more detailed schedule and details about how to access each weekly webinar can be found at 2018-2019 Consolidated Application for ESSA-Funded Programs.
• Questions may be directed to the Title I School & Community Services at (518) 473-0295, or conappta@nysed.gov.

Greenwich High School Earns Recognition for Academic Excellence from Two Publications

Greenwich, NY, July 12, 2018

US News and World Report recently identified Greenwich High School as one of the best High Schools in the United States.  US News designated Greenwich High School as a “Silver” award winner, ranking it 2,589 out of 20,500 public high schools in the fifty states and District of Columbia.  This ranking placed Greenwich in the top 13% of public high schools in the United States.  According to the US News web site, “schools were ranked based on their performance on state-required tests and how well they prepare students for college” using four requirements.  The first requirement was that Greenwich high school students needed to exceed expectations for students in New York State on state assessments.  The second requirement was that underserved students in Greenwich High School (students from lower income families and/or minority students) needed to perform better than state average on New York State Regents exams.  Greenwich High School’s high graduation rate (88%) exceeded US News third requirement of 80%. The final requirement that US News used to rank Greenwich as a “Silver” high school was based on the school’s ability to graduate students that are ready for college level coursework.  According to the US News web site, “College Readiness” was calculated based on the percentages of each school’s students who took and passed AP exams.  This is the second time the Greenwich High School has earned this award in the last ten years (2014 was the previous year).

The Albany Business Review (ABR) also recently ranked Greenwich High School as the ninth best public high school in the Capital Region.  The ABR has been ranking school districts and elementary/high schools for decades.  In the ABR’s most recent rankings, published in June 2018, Greenwich High School was ranked ninth overall out of the 84 public high schools in the 11 county Capital Region.  Greenwich High School was also ranked third in terms of English rank, and eighth in terms of graduation rank.  The “Top 10” high schools were:

1-Bethlehem (Albany County)

2-Niskayuna (Schenectady County)

3-North Colonie-Shaker (Albany County)

4-Shenendehowa (Saratoga County)

5-Guilderland (Albany County)

6-Voorheesville (Albany County)

7-Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake (Saratoga County)

8-Saratoga (Saratoga County)

9-Greenwich (Washington County)

10-East Greenbush-Columbia (Rensselaer County)

Author Interview With Rick Wormeli: ‘Fair Isn’t Always Equal’

ACTION REQUIRED

NYSED Data Reporting Requirements (attachment) – REMINDER

• You are receiving this information to remind you to take action with your School/District Data Coordinator to ensure the reporting of your school/district’s data by the August 24, 2018 Reporting Deadline.
• For detailed information regarding the August 24, 2018 Data Reporting Deadline, additional tools, verification reports, and guidance for data quality and timely reporting, please refer to the May 1, 2018 memo, “NYSED SIRS Data Reporting Requirements” previously distributed via the P-12 weekly communications and available at SIRS Data Reporting Requirement.
• Earlier reporting timelines will be required by your Level 1 data center.  Please directly contact your L1 data center for earlier reporting deadlines.
• Questions may be directed to the Office of Information and Reporting Services, at 518-474-7965, or datasupport@nysed.gov

MUST KNOW

Mental Health Education Literacy in Schools:  Linking a Continuum of Well-Being Comprehensive Guide

• In compliance with recent amendments to Education Law §804, the Mental Health Education Literacy in Schools: Linking to A Continuum of Well-Being Comprehensive Guide will assist schools in supporting effective mental health education instruction at the elementary level, taught by the classroom teacher, and at the secondary level, taught by the certified health educator as part of  the Health Education Program.
• Education Law §804 as amended by Chapter 390 of the Laws of 2016 and Chapter 1 of the Laws of 2017, clarifies that a satisfactory program in health education must:
  • Include instruction in the several dimensions of health:

• • Include mental health and the relation of physical and mental health; and
  • Enhance student understanding, attitudes and behaviors that promote health, well-being and human dignity.

• The Department, the NYS Office of Mental Health, the Mental Health Association in NYS, Inc., and the NYS Mental Health Education Advisory Council, working collaboratively to create this Comprehensive Guide, recommend school districts/schools embed mental health well-being within the broader context of the entire school’s environment.
• School districts/schools are encouraged to use this Comprehensive Guide with all staff, students, families and community agencies when applicable, to develop and nurture a positive school climate and culture focused on mental health well-being.
• Please direct questions to the Office of Student Support Services at 518-486-6090 or studentsupportservices@nysed.gov.

MUST KNOW

Teaching staff who can deliver the instruction necessary to meet the CDOS Commencement Credential, the CDOS graduation pathway, and the 1.75 units of study in CTE required at the middle level (attachment)

• As staffing decisions are made over the coming months, school district and building administrators should be aware of the certifications necessary for staff delivering instruction leading to either the middle level Career and Technical Education requirements or instruction at the high school level leading to the CDOS pathway or CDOS commencement credential.
• See attached memo titled, “WhoCanTeachMLCTE.CDOS.pdf” issued by the offices of Career and Technical Education and Curriculum and Instruction to aid administrators in choosing the appropriate staff for their instructional program.
• Questions related to CTE instructional programs at the Middle Level or programs related to CDOS may be directed to emsccte@nysed.gov    

MUST KNOW

Chapter 501 of the Laws of 2012 (“Protection of People with Special Needs Act”) – Vehicle and Traffic Infraction Reporting and Classification Guidance (see attachments)

• New Guidance – The purpose of this information is to assist mandated reporters in determining whether vehicle and traffic infractions involving a custodian and student is reportable to the New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.
• For more information, contact the Justice Center at (518) 549-0200.

FYI

OFFICE OF ACCOUNTABILITY (OA) NEWSLINE (attachment)

• The OA Newsline informs its readers of upcoming and current information from all teams within the Office of Accountability and general information associated with the work of the OA.  Monthly, the Accountability Policy and Administration Team generates the OA Newsline by:

• • Collecting information pertaining to upcoming and recent activities from all OA teams,
  • Selecting links to related Regents Items and
  • Selecting other information of pertinence and interest.

The E- Newsline is posted to the OA website and sent via e-mail/listserv to the members of the field and to internal staff.

• Items reported in the OA Newsline are based upon information that has been posted elsewhere on the OA website (and other NYSED sites) but is compiled in one place and made accessible to internal staff and the field.
• Prior to its monthly distribution, content in the OA Newsline is reviewed and approved by OA Supervisors.
• For information regarding the OA Newsline, please visit: http://p12.nysed.gov/accountability/OA_E-News/OAE-News.html.
• Questions regarding the OA Newsline may be directed to Office of Accountability, at 718-722-4553, or accountinfo@nysed.gov.

FYI

Survey on Meeting the Needs of Students with Learning Disabilities

• The Office of Special Education has developed surveys for administrators, educators/service providers, and families on meeting the needs of students with learning disabilities, including students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, in New York State.
• Broad dissemination of the surveys is encouraged. Participation is voluntary and anonymous.
• Results of the surveys will be used to inform guidance development related to students with specific learning disabilities and other NYSED initiatives including the State Systemic Improvement Plan.
• The surveys may be accessed at: http://www.mievaluation.com/SLD-Surveys.html.
• Questions about the purpose and/or content of the surveys may be directed to Kelly Onorato at dddstakeholders@nysed.gov. 

Aldrich To Attend CSR

Greenwich Central High School track and field throwing standout Alice Aldrich has accepted an athletic scholarship to attend the College of Saint Rose. She was recruited by CSR head coach Ray Putnam, who had this to say:

“The College of Saint Rose is excited to have Alice join the program. We believe she will be a solid contributor her freshman year. We also feel she will develop into a star thrower as she continues to develop. Alice comes from one of the more technically strong programs in the state. Alice’s work ethic, accompanied by her solid coaching makes her a quality prospect.”

Aldrich was a New York State Federation top-ten thrower and holds the GCS record in the 20 lb. weight throw (45′ 8”). At the outdoor State Qualifier meet, Aldrich was the 4^th best among all Section 2 throwers. She has personal records of 36′ 7” (shot put) and 109′ (discus).

As part of her throwing training, Alice became a highly accomplished power lifter and holds several world records in the Revolution Powerlifting Syndicate. At the 2018 Monster Bench contest, in Cooperstown, NY, she bench pressed 200 lbs.

Alice graduated with an Advanced Regents Diploma and was the recipient of four graduation scholarships: the Greenwich Free Library Scholarship, the Joseph K. Hill Memorial Scholarship, the Lions Club Award and the Coaches’ Award.

Aldrich will major in criminal justice at the College of Saint Rose.

Congratulations to winner of this year’s Greenwich Mcteachers night Mrs. Penman’s class. They were able to enjoy a pizza party and cake celebration sponsored by Greenwich PTSA and McDonald’s.

More scenes from the June 9th Bench dedication ceremony in Greenwich.

Coach of the Year

Steve Patrick, Greenwich: Led Witches to third straight Section II title at Group 4 championship meet with narrow win over Stillwater.

FYI, info below from the National Weather Service:

As we approach the Independence Day holiday, the current forecast calls for an extended period of high temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit beginning this Friday.  To assist with spreading the word on public heat safety, we encourage you share these valuable resources:

NY State Cooling Centers locations:

https://apps.health.ny.gov/statistics/environmental/public_health_tracking/tracker/#/CCMap

NWS Safety Tips for Hot Temperatures:

https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat

Recall we have changed our local heat advisory criteria to 95 degrees.  More information on this important change is available from: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/notification/scn18-55ny_heat_products.htm

The Heat Index calculation and explanation can be obtained from our online weather school called JetStream:  https://www.weather.gov/jetstream/hi

Of course if you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact your National Weather Service:

Brian Montgomery
Lead Meteorologist
251 Fuller Road, Suite B300
Albany, NY 12203-3640
Phone: 518.435.9580     Fax: 518.435.9587
NOAA NWS ALY
http://www.weather.gov/albany

MUST KNOW

Updated Guidelines for Concussion Management (June 2018)

• The New York State Education Department Guidelines for Concussion Management in Schools have been revised to reflect the current recommendations on managing concussions. Previous guidance was that students must be completely symptom free to return to activities.  Now there is emerging research suggesting that some symptoms may be acceptable during return to activities.  The updated guidelines now reflect this practice along with emphasizing that schools follow guidance of the student’s health care provider on what symptoms are acceptable for return to activities.
• A gradual return to physical activity typically is done by progressing a student through levels of activity that increase in duration and/or intensity. Gradual return to activity should occur with the introduction of a new activity level every 24 hours.  If any post-concussion symptoms return, the student should stop the activity and drop back to the previous level of activity. Current research suggests that some level of symptoms with activity is acceptable. Therefore, schools will need to follow provider orders on return to activities. Students should be monitored by district staff daily following each progressive level of physical activity, for any return of signs and symptoms of concussion. A gradual progression should be followed based on the private healthcare provider’s or other specialist’s orders and recommendations.
• Please direct questions to the Office of Student Support Services at 518-486-6090 or studentsupportservices@nysed.gov.

MUST KNOW

Policy and Procedure Clarifications for the New Regents-High School Equivalency Exam Pathway (attachment)

• You are receiving this communication to clarify policy and procedure for the Regents-High School Equivalency Exam Pathway that went into effect on  April 25, 2018.
• Candidates apply by submitting the NYS Education Department application titled Attachment R.
• School district participation is not optional.  See attached titled, “New Regents High School Equivalency Exam Pathway.6-26-18” for additional information
• Questions related to the Regents-HSE Exam Pathway and the regulatory amendment may be directed to hse@nysed.gov.

FYI

Final ESSA Training Session for Superintendents, Chief Accountability Officers, and Rest of State Charter School Administrators

• The final opportunity to attend an ESSA training session will be on July 10-11, 2018 at the Western Suffolk BOCES Conference Center, 31 Lee Avenue, Wheatley Heights, NY.
• You DO NOT have to live on Long Island to attend this session.
• Discussion will include the Department’s plans for ESSA implementation, district supports and a thorough examination of the various components of New York’s Accountability System under ESSA, focused on school and district accountability metrics and identification.
• Questions regarding the trainings or New York’s ESSA Plan may be directed to ESSA@nysed.gov.

FYI

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) 2^nd Annual Career Pathways Summit – REMINDER (attachment)

• The Southern Regional Education Board’s Career Pathways Summit will be held July 31-August 2, 2018 at the Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central.

• See attached flyer titled, “NY Career Pathways Summit 2018 Flyer”.
• Registration information can be found at SREB High Schools that Work.

FYI

Free training in Restorative Practices for BOCES/School Teams this Summer (attachment)

• We are excited to announce the availability of no cost training for school and BOCES staff in Restorative Practices to be held in the Capital Region on July 24-27, 2018 through a collaboration with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), NYS School Boards Association (NYSSBA) and the NYS Education Department.
• This is a “train the trainer” program, and participants should be working in, and implementing the program in a school setting during the 2018-19 school year. After a 1-year mentoring period, the person will be certified to provide the training to others.
• The free* four-day training is available to a two-person team from each BOCES region.  Each two-person team should be comprised of one district staff person, and one BOCES staff person. Participants must provide instruction or services directly to students and staff. (*Note: while there is no cost to participants for the training, expenses for meals, lodging, and travel are not included.)
• Please provide the BOCES and District participant names, titles, email, phone, school name and school grades served contact information using the online registration form here:  Restorative Practices Training. Once registered, participants will be contacted by NYSSBA with more information regarding logistics.
• Participant information must be submitted by each BOCES District Superintendent no later than Friday, July 13, 2018.
• Additional information is provided on the attached document titled, “restorative practices training info”.
• Questions may be directed to: StudentSupportServices@nysed.gov.

Things every parent should know about New York State’s plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act

Greenwich Junior-Senior High School faculty said Bon Voyage to Emily VanDriel after 40 years!

Have a great Retirement Open House tonight!

Emily VanDriel

Greenwich Free Library newsletter

Wrapping up another great school year!