July 12, 2023 minutes (reorganization meeting and regular meeting)

Date: July 12, 2023

Place: Herkimer Central School District Media Center

Members Present: Brian Crandall, Michele Gilbert, Joe Lamanna, Robert Mihevc, Scott Petucci

Members Absent: Aleksander Verenich, Diann Fischer

Others Present: Kathleen Carney – Superintendent of Schools, Chad Hess – Business Manager, Ryan Orilio – Technology Coordinator, Susan Steele – District Clerk

Administration Present: Zach Abbe, Correne Holmes, Cristi Paragi, Michelle Ploss, Renee Vogt

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The Reorganization Meeting was called to order by the Superintendent of Schools, Ms. Carney, at 6 p.m. in the Junior/ Senior High School Media Center and the Pledge of Allegiance was said.

At this point, it was mentioned that we will need to reverse the order of line items IV. Administration of Oath of Officers and III. Appointment of District Clerk Resolution. A motion was made by Mr. Crandall and seconded by Ms. Gilbert to change the order of these items on the agenda. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Administration of Oath of Office:

At this time the District Clerk Pro-Tem administered the Oath of Office to the following individuals:

• Joseph Lamanna – Re-elected Board of Education Member
• Scott Petucci – Re-elected Board of Education Member
• Ms. Fischer is out of town. She will be administered the Oath of Office upon her return.

Appointment of District Clerk Resolution:

Mr. Lamanna moved, and Mr. Mihevc seconded the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, that upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Herkimer Board of Education approves the appointment of Ms. Gina McKernan as School District Clerk for the 2023-2024 school year”.

All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0

Election of Board Officers for the 2023-2024 School Year:

President- Mr. Mihevc nominated Mr. Crandall for the position of Board President. There were no other nominations for President.

On a motion made by Mr. Mihevc and seconded by Mr. Petucci, Mr. Crandall was elected as Board President. Motion carried 4:0:1.

Mr. Crandall was administered the Oath of Office by the District Clerk Pro-Tem. Newly elected Board president, Mr. Crandall, will now preside over the meeting.

Vice President- Mr. Petucci nominated Ms. Gilbert for the position of Board of Education Vice President. There were no other nominations for Vice President.

On a motion made by Mr. Petucci seconded by Mr. Mihevc, Ms. Gilbert was elected as Vice President. Motion carried 4:0:1.

Ms. Gilbert was administered the Oath of Office by the District Clerk Pro-Tem.

President Crandall explained the Board of Education welcomes public comment and community input at meetings. However, we caution that we are not authorized to engage in conversations pertaining to individual students, faculty, staff or administrators. Topics of this nature may only be discussed during executive session and must be coordinated with the Superintendent of Schools prior to a BOE meeting. We ask that public comments are no more than 5 minutes.

Public Comment:

No public comments were heard

Approval of the Agenda:

Mr. Petucci moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded a motion to formally approve the consent agenda as submitted. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Adoption of Board of Education Meeting Dates 2023-2024:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney on a motion made by Mr. Lamanna seconded by Mr. Petucci, the Board approved the 2023-2024 BOE meeting dates as presented. A brief discussion followed. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Appointment of Officers:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney on a motion made by Mr. Petucci seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the Board approved the following Appointment of Officers for the 2023-2024 school year. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

• District Clerk – Gina McKernan
• District Clerk Pro-Tem – Susan Steele
• District Treasurer – Chad Hess
• Deputy Treasurer – Gina McKernan
• Claims Auditor – Maria Ella Caiola

Approved Appointments:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Mr. Mihevc seconded by Mr. Petucci, the Board approved the following appointments for the 2023-2024 school year. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

• District Physician – Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital
• Independent Auditor – West and Company
• School Attorney(s) – Girvin & Ferlazzo PC, Ferrara Fiorenza PC, and Harris Beach PLLC
• Financial Advisor – Bernard P. Donegan Inc.
• Insurance Advisor – Day and Read (InsureOne of America)
• Bond Counsel – Hodgson and Russ, LLP

Designation of Appointments:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Ms. Gilbert, seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the Board approved the following Designation Appointments for the 2023-2024 school year. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

• School Tax Collector – Town of Herkimer
• Supervisors of Attendance and appointed designee(s):
  • Jr./Sr. High School: Principal Zachary Abbe/ Designee Maria Lindsay
  • Middle School: Principal Maria Lindsay/ Designee Zachary Abbe
  • Elementary: Principal Renee Vogt/ Designee Cristi Paragi
• Dignity Act Coordinator:
  • Jr./ Sr. High School: Principal Zachary Abbe/ Designee Maria Lindsay
  • Middle School: Principal Maria Lindsay/ Designee Zachary Abbe
  • Elementary: Principal Renee Vogt/ Designee Cristi Paragi
• Athletic Director – Cristi Paragi
• Purchasing Agent – Chad Hess
• Records Access Officer – Cristina Chilelli
• Records Management Officer – Cristina Chilelli
• Census Enumerator – Superintendent of Schools, Kathleen A. Carney
• Chief Emergency Officer – Superintendent of Schools, Kathleen A. Carney
• Herkimer County Insurance Designee to Board of Directors – Chad Hess, Designee to Board of Directors, and Kathleen A. Carney, District’s Designee
• Herkimer County Workers Comp. Consortium Designee to Board of Directors – Chad Hess, Designee to Board of Directors, and Kathleen A. Carney, District’s Designee
• Residency Officer – Superintendent of Schools, Kathleen A. Carney
• Title IX Compliance Officer – Michelle Ploss
• Section 504 Americans with Disabilities Act Officer – Michelle Ploss
• Liaison for Homeless Children and Foster Care Coordinator – Michelle Ploss
• Committee on Special Education:
  • Chairperson- Correne Holmes
  • School Psychologist – Generic
  • School Physician – Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital
  • Child’s Special Education Teacher – Generic
  • Child’s Regular Education Teacher – Generic
• Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE):
  • School District Employee/ Chairperson – Correne Holmes
  • Representative of the municipality of the child’s Residency – Generic
  • Professional who participates in the evaluation of the child – Generic
  • Child’s Teacher or appropriately certified teacher – Generic
  • Representative from Early Intervention Program – Generic
• Asbestos (LEA) Designee: AHERA, Public Law 99-519 – Chad Hess
• Chemical Hygiene Officer(s) James McKernan, Robert Nasypany and Carrie Kane
• Medicaid Claims Officer – Michelle Ploss
• Ed Law 2-D Officer – Ryan Orilio

Designations:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Mr. Petucci seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the Board approved the following Designations for the 2023-2024 school year. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

• Official Depositories – Adirondack Bank
• Extra-Curricular Faculty Auditor – Zachary Abbe
• Treasurer for Extra-Curricular Activities Account – Susan Steele
• Official Newspaper – Times Telegram

Authorizations:

Upon recommendation of Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Mr. Lamanna, seconded by Mr. Petucci, the Board approved the following authorizations. All in favor; motion carried 5:0.

The Appointment of the Superintendent of Schools to serve as the following:

Certifier of Payroll: To approve the Superintendent of Schools to serve as Certifier of Payroll for the 2023-2024 school year, and as part of her regular duties.

School Calendar Adjustments: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to adjust the school calendar; and to alter the instructional school calendar as needed.

School Bus Lease Agreement: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to sign an annual School Bus Lease Agreement between the Herkimer Central School District and Birnie Bus Service, Inc. for the 2023-2024 school year.

Rural Schools Association Annual Membership: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to sign an annual membership effective July 1, 2023- June 30, 2024, not to exceed $1,000 for dues participation.

Title I & II Certification: To authorize the Superintendent of Schools to sign and attest the status as of June 30, 2023, that all staff funded with Title I & II funds for the 2022- 2023 school year have met the definition of “highly qualified”.

Acceptance of Official Documents: To authorize Kathleen A. Carney, Clerk Pro-tem to accept service of official documents on behalf of the District in the absence of the District Clerk, as part of her regular duties.

Educational Official for Receipt of Court Notifications: To approve the Superintendent of Schools to be authorized to receive court notifications regarding students.

Attendance at Conferences, Workshops, and Conventions: To approve the Superintendent of Schools be authorized to approve attendance at conferences, workshops, and conventions for the teachers, staff and Board of Education members, and that all those attending such conferences would be required to submit conference forms with expenses to the Superintendent.

Budget Transfers: To approve the Superintendent of Schools be given authorization to approve budget transfers of $5,000 or less and be given authorization to recommend budget transfers above that amount to the Board of Education for their formal approval at a public meeting.

Electronic Wire Transfers: To approve the Business Manager to be authorized to approve wire transfers outside the district up to one million dollars, with the exception of payroll and debt service related transfers which may exceed one million dollars.

Credit for Graduate Student, In-service, and Advanced Degrees: To approve the Superintendent of Schools to be authorized to certify credit for approved graduate study, in-service credit and advanced degrees in accordance with the agreement between the Herkimer Faculty Association and the Herkimer Central School District.

Temporary and Part-Time Employees: To approve the Superintendent of Schools to be authorized to appoint all temporary or part-time employees with the understanding that the Board of Education would be informed of the date of hire, position, rate of pay and estimated length of appointment at the next Board of Education meeting.

Application for Grants in aid: To approve the Superintendent of School to be authorized to apply for State and Federal Grants as well as other grant proposals which will benefit the Herkimer Central School District.

Change Orders: To approve the Superintendent of Schools to sign change orders, work directives and other changes to the work below the public bidding threshold of $10,000.

The appointment of the President of the Board of Education to serve as the following:

Change Orders: To approve the President of the Board of Education to sign change orders, work directives and other changes to the work below the public bidding threshold of $35,000.

The appointment of the Vice President of the Board of Education to serve as the following:

Signing of Contracts: To authorize the Vice President of the Board of Education to sign contracts in the absences of the President of the Board of Education.

The appointment of Business Manager and District Clerk to serve as the following:

Official Bank Signatories: To approve Chad Hess and Gina McKernan as Official Bank Signatories for the 2023-2024 school year, and to serve as part of their regular duties.

The appointment of Business Manager to serve as the following:

Signing of Checks: To authorize Chad Hess, Business Manager, to sign checks on behalf of the District.

Petty Cash Accounts: To authorize that the following petty cash accounts be established for the 2023-2024 school year:

Building: Jr./Sr. High School
Amount: $100.00
Designee: Zachary Abbe

Building: Elementary School
Amount: $100.00
Designee: Tami Kucerak

Building: District Office
Amount: $100.00
Designee: Gina McKernan

Approval of Rates:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney and after a brief discussion, on a motion made by Mr. Mihevc, seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the Board approved the following rates. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Substitute Teachers, Nurses and Support Staff:

• Certified Teachers: $125/ per day
• Uncertified Teachers: $110/per day
• HCS Retired Teachers: $135/day
• LTA’s: $15/hr
• Registered Nurses: $28/hr
• Licenses Practical Nurses: $16/hr
• Typist: $15/hr
• Maintenance: $15/hr
• Election Workers: $17.50/hr

Travel Reimbursement:

Mileage Rate: Current IRS rate

Mileage between District Buildings (HES/HHS) 3.4 miles

Student Meal Rate:

BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, the Board of Education of the Herkimer Central School District hereby approves the meal prices for school lunch and breakfast for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Breakfast: $1.50
• Lunch: $2.75
• Reduced Breakfast: Free
• Reduced Lunch: Free

Consent Agenda:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney and after a brief discussion, on a motion made by Mr. Lamanna, and seconded by Mr. Petucci the Board approved the following resolutions. All voted in favor; 5:0.

Review of required District Policies in Effect:

The 2023-2024 policy revisions adopted by the Board of Education throughout the school year are available to the public on the district’s website. www.herkimercsd.org

Bonding under District Insurance:

Recommended to designate the following individuals to be bonded under the district’s insurance policy.

• School Business Manager
• District Treasurer
• District Clerk
• District Tax Collector
• Central Treasurer- Activity Funds
• Purchasing Agent
• Accountant
• Claims Auditor
• Blanket Bond for the District
• Superintendent of Schools

Approved Standard Work Day:

BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Education of the Herkimer CSD hereby approves the Standard Work Day as per attached NYS Local Retirement System Standard Work Day Form RS 2418 for the 2023-2024 school year.

Destruction of Ballots:

BE IT RESOLVED, in accordance with Education Law Section 2034(6), the Board of Education of the Herkimer Central School District hereby approves and authorizes the destruction of ballots from the May 17, 2022, along with any previous election ballots and previous district votes retained on file.

On a motion made by Ms. Gilbert, and seconded by Mr. Petucci, the BOE adjourned the reorganization meeting at 6:10 p.m. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

-End of the Re-organizational Meeting-

Public recessed at 6:10 p.m.
Public reconvened at 6:11 p.m.

The Public Hearing meeting for the District Wide Safety Plan was called to order at 6:11 p.m.; No public comment was heard. A short recess was observed.

The regular meeting was called to order at 6:13 p.m. at the Herkimer Jr. /Sr. High School Media Center by President Brian Crandall.

Approval of Agenda:

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Mihevc seconded a motion to formally approve the meeting agenda as submitted. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Board Recognition:

President Crandall acknowledged the thank you notes from Zoey Caldwell, Kathy Orts and the Herkimer Central School District.

Approval of the Minutes:

Mr. Petucci moved, and Ms. Gilbert seconded a motion to approve the regular BOE meeting minutes from Wednesday, June 21, 2023, as presented. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

2018 Capital Project Phase II Updates:

Mr. Ryan Reed from H.R. Beebe Incorporated, Mr. Phil Squadrito and Mr. Brody Neville from King + King Architects were in attendance to give various updates on the capital building project. The project is moving along quite nicely both at the elementary and high school and Superintendent Carney is pleased with how smoothly it seems to be going. All were very appreciative of the daily updates from Mr. Reed and find them helpful. A discussion followed.

Business Reports:

Approval of Tutors Resolution:

Mr. Petucci moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, on the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, to approve District teachers as tutors for the 2023-2024 school year and as authorized during the summer months”.

All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Approval of Chaperones Resolution:

Mr. Lamanna moved, and Mr. Petucci seconded the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, on the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools to approve all District staff members as chaperones for District-sponsored events, as needed, at the chaperone rate of pay for the 2023-2024 school year”.

All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Cross-Claim Resolution:

Mr. Mihevc moved and Ms. Gilbert seconded the following Board resolution:

“RESOLVED, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools that the Herkimer Central School District Board of Education does hereby approve and ratify the filing of a cross-claim against the Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES and Julie Becker in an action pending in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Herkimer, under Index Number EF2023-110314, and the law firm of Hancock Estabrook, LLP, Frank W. Miller, Esq., of counsel be and is authorized to pursue the same on behalf of the Herkimer Central School District and the Herkimer Central School District Board of Education; and it is

FURTHER, resolved and determined that this action is necessary in order to protect the legal rights and interests of the Herkimer Central School District.”

All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Herkimer Housing Associates:

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Petucci seconded the motion to table agenda item 8d. Herkimer Housing Associates until after Executive Session. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Business Office Update:

Mr. Hess stated that the Business Office has been very busy closing up the current school year and starting up the new school year. He gave various other updates, such as: the Foundation Aid survey has been submitted and accepted with NYSED; the 2014 Renovation Capital Project Corrective Action Plan needs to be revised; and quotes are starting to come in for the parking lot at the elementary school. A brief discussion followed.

Superintendent’s Reports:

Superintendent Carney was pleased with the solid hires in both buildings so far, but said that some areas will be hard to fill. She was appreciative of the teachers that have been doing curriculum work this summer, and is happy to see the fitness center open daily for our students.

There was a safety meeting with the Herkimer Police and Fire Departments to review our safety plan and classroom lockdown buckets have been purchased.

The Class of 1973 would like to have a tour of the high school. They would also like to give back to the school and have offered to help preserve an old football jersey and have it displayed.

Other updates were given, including: looking into moving Elmer Morgan statue to athletic complex, Liberty Partnership Program, students attending summer school and the continued work on the capital project. A brief discussion followed.

Administrative Reports:

Ms. Paragi’s report was reviewed with the BOE. A brief discussion followed.

MOU-HCSD/Perch Place LLC – Ready for Kindergarten:

Mr. Petucci moved, and Mr. Mihevc seconded the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, that the BOE hereby accepts the Memorandum of Understanding between the Herkimer Central School District and Perch Place, LLC for the Ready for Kindergarten (R4K) Program;

WHEREAS, the parties enter into this agreement effective August 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024; and for the Superintendent of Schools to sign the contract on the Boards behalf.”

A discussion Followed. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

MOA-HCSD/HFA – Guidance Stipend:

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Petucci seconded to accept/approve the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, that the BOE hereby accepts the Memorandum of Agreement between the Herkimer Central School District (HCSD) and the Herkimer Faculty Association (HFA); regarding the annual stipend for guidance counselors, and for the Superintendent of Schools to sign the contract on the Boards behalf.”

A discussion followed. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

MOA-HCSD/HEA – 10 month Administrative Position:

Mr. Petucci moved, and Ms. Gilbert seconded the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Herkimer Central School District hereby approves the Memorandum of Agreement by and between the Herkimer Central School District (HCSD) and the Herkimer Education Association (HEA) as presented;

WHEREAS, the parties enter into this agreement effective August 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024; and for the Superintendent of Schools to sign the contract on the Boards behalf.”

A discussion followed. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Interim Consultant Agreement:

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded to accept/approve the following Board resolution:

“BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education of the Herkimer Central School District hereby approves the Interim Secretary to the Superintendent/District Clerk Consultant Agreement between Ms. Marsha Griffith and the District and authorizes the Board President to sign the agreement on the Boards behalf”.

A discussion followed. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Staffing Recommendations:

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Mr. Mihevc, seconded by Mr. Petucci, the BOE approved the following personnel actions as presented. All voted in favor. Motion carried 5:0.

Teacher Retirement:

Name: Spanfelner, Brenda
Position: Licensed Teaching Assistant
Location: Elementary School
Effective Date: June 30, 2023

Teaching Resignation:

Name: Peters, Taylor
Position: Social Worker
Location: Elementary School
Effective Date: May 31, 2023

Staffing Appointments (Amended BOE 06/21/23):

NAME: Lindsay, Maria
TENURE AREA(s): Administrative Tenure Area of School Building Leader
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: July 22, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: July 21, 2026
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least two (2) of the three (3) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: July 22, 2023
SALARY: $112,000

NAME: Crandall, Nicole
TENURE AREA(s): Administrative Tenure Area of School Building Leader
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: August 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: July 31, 2027
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least three (3) of the four (4) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: August 1, 2023
SALARY: $75,000 (10 month Base plus 15 Days)

NAME: Brant, Jamie
TENURE AREA(s): Students with Disabilities-All Grades (Pending Certification)*
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2027
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least three (3) of the four (4) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 1 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

*Ms. Brant is currently awaiting certification as a Special Education teacher from the State Education Department. Therefore, this appointment is specifically contingent upon the District’s receipt of proof of certification prior to the start of the student instructional year on September 7, 2023. Should she not receive certification by September 7, 2023, Ms. Brant’s appointment shall be reclassified as a long-term substitute appointment for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days.

NAME: Futscher, James
TENURE AREA(s): Students with Disabilities-All Grades (Pending Certification)*
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2027
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least three (3) of the four (4) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 1 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

*Mr. Futscher is currently awaiting certification as a Special Education teacher from the State Education Department. Therefore, this appointment is specifically contingent upon the District’s receipt of proof of certification prior to the start of the student instructional year on September 7, 2023. Should he not receive certification by September 7, 2023, Mr. Futscher appointment shall be reclassified as a long-term substitute appointment for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days.

NAME: Heuser, Madison
TENURE AREA(s): K-12 Music Education
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2027
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least three (3) of the four (4) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 2 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

NAME: Macri, Barbara
TENURE AREA(s): Students with Disabilities (1-6)
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2025
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least one (1) of the two (2) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 14 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

NAME: Posey, Tekitha
TENURE AREA(s): Secondary Science
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2027
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least three (3) of the four (4) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 1 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

NAME: Waseleski, Rachel
TENURE AREA(s): Secondary English (Pending Certification)
DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROBATIONARY SERVICE IN EACH TENURE AREA: September 1, 2023
EXPIRATION DATE OF PROBATIONARY APPOINTMENT: August 31, 2026
To the extent required by the applicable provisions of Education Law Section 2509, 2573, 3213 and 3014, in order to be granted tenure, the classroom teacher or building principal shall have received composite or overall annual professional performance review ratings pursuant to Education Law 3012-d of either effective or highly effective in at least two (2) of the three (3) preceding years. If the classroom teacher or building principal receives an ineffective composite or overall rating in the final year of the probationary period, he or she shall not be eligible for tenure at that time. For purposes of this subdivision, classroom teacher and building principal mean a classroom teacher or building principal as such terms are defined in Sections 30-2.2 and 30-3.2 of the Part.
Effective: September 1, 2023
SALARY: Step 10 2021-2025 Herkimer Faculty Association Contract

LTA Appointment:

Name: Giles, Shontashia
Position: Licensed Teaching Assistant
Location: Jr. /Sr. High School
Effective Date: September 1, 2023
Salary: $25,500
(Probationary period from September 1, 2023 – August 31, 2027)

Revision of Appointment:

Name: Orilio, Ryan
Position: Part-time Technology Teacher
Location: District
Effective Date: July 1, 2023
Salary: .3 FTE of Step 20

Name: Orilio, Ryan
Position: Senior Microcomputer Specialist
Location: District
Effective Date: July 1, 2023
Salary: $45.58/1660 hours

Substitute Appointment:

Name: Goldman, Andrew
Position: School Psychologist
Effective Date: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024, as needed
Salary: Per Payment Guidelines for Substitutes
Retired Substitute Appointment:

Name: French, JoAnn
Position: Teacher
Location: Elementary School
Effective Date: September 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024, as needed
Salary: Based on Annual Payment Guidelines for Substitutes

Name: Jones, Marianne
Position: Teacher
Location: Elementary School
Effective Date: September 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024, as needed
Salary: Based on Annual Payment Guidelines for Substitutes

Name: Weslowski, Maggie
Position: Teacher
Location: Elementary School
Effective Date: September 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024, as needed
Salary: Based on Annual Payment Guidelines for Substitutes

2022-2023 Extra-Curricular Appointments:

Name: Baker, Talia
Appointment: FCCLA Advisor
Salary: $1,520

2022-2023 Advanced Placement Instructors (Amended BOE 06/21/23):

Salary: Per HFA Contract $300 per course

Name: Lampert, Caroline
AP US History & Government

Name: McCutcheon, Heather
AP Art

Name: Sheldon, Nicholas
AP European History

Fall 2023 Unpaid Coaching Appointment:

Sommer, Ashley – Cross Country Unpaid Assistant
Steele, Tyler – Varsity Football Unpaid Assistant

CSE/CPSE Program / Placement Recommendations:

Upon recommendation from Superintendent Carney, on a motion made by Mr. Petucci, seconded by Ms. Gilbert, the BOE approved the Committee on Special Education, the Sub-Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education program/placement recommendations as presented. Motion carried 5:0. (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23)

Board of Education Reports:

President’s Update:

President Crandall commented that although the venue for graduation was a last minute decision, the ceremony was amazing and everything looked great. Mr. Mihevc asked if the speeches given by the students were saved, and if we could look into doing so if they are not.

Meeting Evaluation:

Mr. Verenich was absent from tonight’s meeting, so Ms. Gilbert stood in as meeting evaluator. She presented her review of the July 12, 2023, Board of Education meeting, and felt it went well and was appreciative of all the updates.

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded a motion to move into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing negotiations, personnel and legal. The Board may take action in public session after the Executive Session ends and the Board returns to public session. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

Executive Session:

The Board moved into Executive Session at 7:14 p.m.
The Board exited Executive Session at 8:11 p.m.

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded a motion to remove from the table, agenda item 8d. Herkimer Housing Associates. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0

Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Carney on a motion made by Ms. Gilbert, seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the BOE approved the following resolution:

Herkimer Housing Associates:

Ms. Gilbert moved, and Mr. Lamanna seconded to accept/approve the following Board resolution:

“WHEREAS, the Herkimer Central School District is a party to a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (“PILOT”) agreement with the Herkimer Housing Associates, covering the tax years 2018 to 2052, and more specifically the years 2018, 2019, and 2020; and

WHEREAS, as required by the PILOT agreement, Herkimer Housing Associates is required to make an annual payment in lieu of taxes to the Herkimer Central School District; and

WHEREAS, Herkimer Housing Associates failed to make its required PILOT payment for multiple years in the years 2018, 2019, and 2020.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Education of the Herkimer Central School District hereby resolves:

The law firm of Ferrara Fiorenza, PC, is authorized to provide legal services in connection with pursuing claims for damages as a result of a breach of contract against the Herkimer Housing Associates, for failure to make payments under the PILOT agreement, consistent with the recitals above.

All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0 (Material filed in the supplemental file dated 07/12/23).

Superintendent Carney left the meeting.

The Board re-entered Executive Session at 8:13 p.m.
The Board exited Executive Session at 9:35 p.m.

Adjournment:

On a motion made by Ms. Gilbert, and seconded by Mr. Lamanna, the BOE adjourned the public meeting at 9:35 p.m. All voted in favor; motion carried 5:0.

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Susan L. Steele
District Clerk