70 Malta Avenue
Ballston Spa, NY 12020
(518) 884-7195
Fax: (518) 884-7101

Dr. Raymond C. Colucciello
Superintendent

 

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Ballston Spa Elementary Schools Plan Family Get-Togethers

On Monday, June 9th from 6:00-7:00PM, the four “new” elementary schools in the Ballston Spa Central School District will host a special opportunity for the “new” families to visit the schools they will attend next year. All students in the primary and intermediate schools will attend a “new” Kindergarten through 5^th grade school, beginning next fall, and remain until they move to the 6^th grade. The principals will greet students and parents, as well as introduce their “new” staff. Families will then be able to explore the buildings, ask questions about next year and meet staff members. The evening will conclude with healthy snacks and a question and answer session.  All families should have received notification of their students’ school assignment for next year based on the new elementary attendance zones in the district. Please contact the appropriate school for additional information. Building principals and numbers are as follows:

Ballston Spa Schools Alter End of Year Schedule

The elementary school schedule for the end of the school year will differ from the originally published scheduled.  In order to accommodate the logistics of transforming the three existing schools into four separate elementary schools, the students will attend for half days on June 20^th and 23^rd. The last day for all students in Kindergarten through fifth grade will be June 23^rd. The elementary staff will continue to work for two full days  (with no students) on Tuesday, June 24^th and Wednesday, June 25^th.

The Middle School schedule will be as published, with the last full day for students on Monday, June 16^th. The school will begin half days for students on Tuesday, June 17^th and continue until the last day of school on Wednesday, June 25^th.

The High School follows a similar schedule with the last full day of classes for students on Monday, June 16^th. On Tuesday, June 17^th the New York State Regents exams begin and continue through Wednesday, June 25^th, which is also the last day of school. The High School Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2008 will be held at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center at 4:00 pm on the 25^th.

Please contact the appropriate school for additional information on the end of year schedule and events.

June 2008

The schedule for the end of the school year includes:

Elementary Schools:

Friday, June 20            ½ day for elementary students

Monday, June 23          ½ day for elementary students (last day for students)

            Tuesday, June 24        Elementary staff full day  (no students)

            Wednesday, June 25    Elementary staff full day  (no students)

            Middle School:

            Monday, June 16         Last full day of classes for students

            Tuesday, June 17        Half days for students begin

            Wednesday, June 25    Last half day for students, last day of school

            High School:

            Monday, June 16          Last full day of classes for students

          Tuesday, June 17         Regents exams begin

           Wednesday, June 25    Regents rating day, last day of school

                                                Graduation, SPAC, 4:00 pm

 
Ballston Spa High School Yearbook Available
 
The Ballston Spa High School yearbook staff has announced that this year 's yearbook,  "Something To Shout About," will be distributed to seniors at their Senior Banquet on June 4. Distribution to other students and staff will begin on June 5.
 
The all-color yearbooks are 204 pages long and a limited number are still available for purchase at $75.00. For more information or to order, please contact the advisers Janelle Schmidt and Pat Pacelli at 884-7150 or jschmidt@bscsd.org and ppacelli@bscsd.org.

Board Announces Decision on New Superintendent

The Ballston Spa Board of Education has concluded the selection process for a new Superintendent of Schools after a lengthy process that started last fall.  Board of Education President, Kathleen Jarvis, announced that the Board had made a unanimous decision that Dr. Joseph Dragone, Assistant Superintendent at City School District of Albany, is the educational leader that will continue the district’s current initiatives and address student achievement. The process included screening applications, interviewing candidates, various group interviews and public presentations during the last few months. 

The Board of Education plans to appoint him to the position on May 14, 2008. He comes to the district with 15 years experience as an educator in public schools throughout the capital region. His career path includes classroom teaching, curriculum coordination, building leadership and his current responsibilities for secondary education. His doctorate was completed at SUNY Albany and his Masters and Bachelors were earned from The College of St. Rose. He currently lives with his wife in Clifton Park.

Dr. Colucciello has done an outstanding job of addressing the needs of the school district. He will be available to transition the leadership role over to the new Superintendent in the coming months. Please contact the district office at 884-7195 for additional information.

Ballston Spa Odyssey of Mind Team Advances to World Finals

One of the Ballston Spa School District teams recently advanced to the world finals after competing at the New York State finals in Binghamton! Students from Wood Road Intermediate School’s  “Odyssey Road Rally Team” for Division 1, presented their creative solution to a road rally challenge. Team members include Christian Canham, Cody Fabian, Eric Howe, Luc Johnson, Ben Walker and Jacquelyn Wertel. They were coached by Krista and Robert Canham and supported by their Wood Road Odyssey of the Mind Coordinator Megan Otten. The team had placed first in the Division 1 Odyssey Road Rally at the Regional Competition at Ballston Spa High School in early March.

They are now advancing to World Finals Competition starting on May 31, 2008 at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland. The team will be holding several fundraisers to support their trip, including a bottle drive on May 10, 2008.  Please contact the school for additional information at 884-7290.

Ballston Spa Budget Vote and Board Candidate Information

The Ballston Spa Central School District will offer several opportunities for residents to learn more about the school Board of Education elections and the upcoming vote on the proposed budget for 2008-2009. The state required budget hearing is scheduled for May 7, 2008 at 7:00 pm in the District Office. Members of the public are invited to attend and hear a brief overview of the budget, by Assistant Superintendent Brian Sirianni, and ask any related questions.

The Board of Education recently approved the proposed budget of $70,162,308 for the 2008-2009 school year. The year-to-year increase in the budget reflects a 6.3% increase, including the reimbursable costs for implementing the full day Kindergarten program and school reconfiguration. Currently, based on the projected numbers, the average homeowner in the district will see an approximate 1.5% tax increase in the proposed budget for 2008-2009. There are a total of five propositions on the ballot this year, including the budget, funding for transportation vehicles, capital improvement projects, support for the public library and the local recreation commission.

A "Meet the Candidates Night" will be held in the High School Library on May 15, 2008 at 6:30 pm. The High School's Participation in Government classes will facilitate the evening forum to give area residents a chance to learn more about the three candidates running for the Board of Education. There are two open seats on the Board and three candidates seeking a three-year term, including Frank Townley, Jeanne Obermayer and Shawn Raymond. Residents may also learn more about the budget by attending informal "Coffee Conversations" with school officials and Board of Education members. Community sessions are planned for May 15 and May 17 from 8:00 am - 10:00 am at the Coffee Planet on Milton Avenue in the middle of the Village. Also a "Drop In Budget Session" with the Superintendent is scheduled for May 16 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm, at the District Office, 70 Malta Avenue. In addition, please call the district's budget hotline with specific questions for the district's Assistant Superintendent for Business at 884-7195 ext. 320. Questions and comments may also be sent via the district website at www.bscsd.org.
 
The annual statewide School Budget Vote and Board of Education Elections will be held May 20, 2008 from 7:00 am - 9:00 pm.

District residents vote at the Malta Town Hall (residents of Malta) and the Ballston Spa High School library (residents of Milton, Ballston and Charlton). School Pride Day exhibits will be located at both sites and student performances will be held in the high school cafeteria / auditorium. A chicken barbeque and ice cream social are also being held at the high school. Additional information is available on the district website, www.bscsd.org, the District Office at 70 Malta Avenue or by calling 884-7195.
 

Ballston Spa Board of Education Candidates

There are three community members running for the two open seats on the Ballston Spa Board of Education.  A “Meet The Candidates Night” will be held on Thursday, May 15^th in the Ballston Spa High School library at 6:30 pm, where community members can meet the candidates and learn more about them before voting. The High School’s Participation in Government classes will facilitate the evening.  The candidates include incumbents Jeanne Obermayer (seeking her second term) and Frank Townley (seeking his eighth term), and challenger Shawn Raymond (seeking his first term).  Voters will cast a ballot for up to two candidates on May 20, 2008 during the statewide school election and budget vote.  The top two candidates in the election will serve for a three-year volunteer term on the Board, commencing in July 2008.  Additional information is available on the district’s website at www.bscsd.org or from the District Office, 70 Malta Avenue, or 884-7195.

Kids' Vote 2008 in Ballston Spa

A Kids' Vote will once again be held in Ballston Spa during the statewide school budget vote on Tuesday, May 20, 2008. In an effort to teach a living lesson in civics and democracy to students, the Ballston Spa School District is giving students an opportunity to vote on a variety of age appropriate school issues when they accompany their parents to the polls.

Milton Terrace Primary School students will select the best necktie for their principal to wear and will indicate their favorite storybook character. Intermediate school aged children will also indicate their favorite school subject and their favorite season. Their final question asks which fitness activity they participate in most. The middle school and high school students will answer several questions about their school and academic programs.

Student will vote on computers at the polls between 7:00am - 9:00 pm on May 20, 2008 in either the Ballston Spa High School Library or the Malta Town Hall. Please contact the Office of Community Resources at 884-7195 ext 329 for additional information.

Ballston Spa Board Approves Budget for Public Vote

The Ballston Spa Central School District Board of Education recently approved the proposed budget of $70,162,308 for the 2008-2009 school year. At the April 23, 2008 meeting, the Board members had a final discussion of the requests for new funding for programs and various budget items, including the increasing fuel costs, need for staffing for specific programs and supporting previously approved courses. Given the increase in state aid projections, they agreed to include close to $300,000 for the costs of fuel, special education staffing and a new science course. 

The year–to-year increase in the budget reflects a 6.3% increase, including the reimbursable costs for implementing the full day Kindergarten program and school reconfiguration. The Board members worked hard to balance the budget and keep any increases to a minimum.  Currently, based on the projected numbers, the average homeowner in the district will see an approximate 1.5% tax increase in the proposed budget for 2008-2009. The final numbers will not be known until the various towns complete their property tax assessment roll updates in the coming months.

The formal budget hearing will be held on Wednesday, May 7th at 7:00 pm in the District Office. Several additional opportunities to learn about the budget are also being scheduled during the coming weeks. There are a total of five propositions on the ballot this year, including the budget, funding for transportation vehicles, capital improvement projects, support for the public library and support for the local recreation commission. In addition, there are two open seats on the Board and three candidates seeking a three-year term, including Frank Townley, Jeanne Obermayer and Shawn Raymond.

The annual statewide School Budget Vote and Board of Education Elections will be held May 20, 2008 from 7:00 am - 9:00 pm.  District residents vote in either the Malta Town Hall (residents of Malta) or the Ballston Spa High School (residents of Milton, Ballston and Charlton).    School Pride Day exhibits will be located at both sites and student performances will be held in the high school cafeteria / auditorium. A chicken barbeque and ice cream social are also being held at the high school. Additional information is available on the district website, www.bscsd.org, the District Office at 70 Malta Avenue or by calling 884-7195.  

School Pride Day Chicken Barbeque

The Ballston Spa Association of Teaching Assistants will be sponsoring a chicken barbeque on May 20, 2008 to coincide with the School Board and Budget Vote. The barbeque will be provided by Bill's Dugout and will take place at the Ballston Spa High School from 2:30-7:00 PM. The cost is $9.00 per person and $8.00 for seniors 62 years and older. The cost includes ½ of a chicken, coleslaw, roll and salt potatoes. Meals may be take-out or dine in the High School cafeteria. Tickets are limited and are available from any Teaching Assistant, all BSCSD schools, the district office and at the high school the day of the barbeque.

For more information, please contact Kate Wanerka at 461-4373.
 

Chicken Barbeque Flyer information.

School District Prepares for Annual Budget Vote and Pride Day

The Ballston Spa School District is preparing for the annual statewide budget vote and Board of Education elections on May 20, 2008. The Board of Education is expected to approve the proposed budget on April 23rd after several presentations and discussions. The formal budget hearing will be on Wednesday, May 7th at 7:00 pm in the District Office. Several additional opportunities to learn about the budget are also being scheduled during the coming weeks.

Polls are open from 7:00 am - 9:00 pm and district residents vote in either the Malta Town Hall (residents of Malta) or the Ballston Spa High School (residents of Milton, Ballston and Charlton).

School Pride Day exhibits will be located at both sites and student performances will be held in the high school cafeteria / auditorium. A chicken barbeque is also being held at the high school and tickets are available in the district or school offices.

Budget presentations are also being scheduled for community organizations. Please call the Community Relations Office to arrange for a presentation for your organization or for more information, 884-7195 ext. 329.

New Elementary Reading Program

The new elementary reading program will be presented to parents at an evening forum on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at 6:30 pm in the Wood Road / Milton Terrace Cafetorium. All parents of current or entering elementary students are encouraged to attend and learn more about the new program, which will be implemented next year. Please contact one of the elementary school offices for additional information.

Ballston Spa Schools Announce New Elementary Attendance Zones

The Ballston Spa Board of Education approved a resolution in February to reorganize the school district to four Kindergarten through fifth grade buildings beginning in September 2008. This decision was based on a variety of reasons that the district and Board of Education had been examining for well over a year, including the need to increase student achievement, reduce the number of student transitions and to incorporate full day Kindergarten programming.

The schools currently will be named Malta Avenue Elementary School, Wood Road Elementary School, Milton Terrace North Elementary School and Milton Terrace South Elementary School. The current principals will remain in their buildings and Mr. Chuck Smith will be named the interim principal of Milton Terrace North. All four schools will be housed in the current buildings and minimal renovations will be completed this summer to accommodate the new configuration. The district was able to reassign the students due to flat enrollments, equalize the class sizes among schools and also will be able to incorporate the full day Kindergarten classes.

One of the first steps in this reorganization is to assign a specific attendance zone to each of the four schools. These attendance zones ensure that siblings as well as neighborhood children will attend the same elementary school for their entire Kindergarten through fifth grade experience. Some students will be changing schools next year based on the new assignments of their home address to a new attendance zone.  Also, some students with special needs will be placed in classrooms based on their Individualized Education Program, and may not be in their attendance zone. Families are currently receiving information about attendance zones in the mail and through school meetings.

Many teachers and support staff members will also be relocating to new buildings and new classrooms next year. The elementary teachers in the school district are excited about beginning the next school year as part of a new K-5 school configuration. A new reading program will also be incorporated into the new schools and all teachers and students will be utilizing one consistent program. The teacher classroom assignment process will be implemented during the coming month.  The district is committed to making the transition for both students and staff successful.

 Many transition activities and meetings will be scheduled by the four elementary schools for students, and parents, to make the implementation go as smoothly as possible. Families will receive specific information regarding classroom teacher assignments, room locations and transportation during the summer.

Click on this link to view the Reconfiguration Map.

For specific information, please check the district website at www.bscsd.org  or contact Mr. Chuck Smith, Transition Advisor, at the Wood Road Intermediate School, 884-7290 ext. 321 or csmith@bscsd.org.

Ballston Spa Offers Learn to Swim Program

Ballston Spa Educational Foundation Offers Annual Community Dinner

A Taste of Ballston Spa, featuring delicious menu items from more than a dozen restaurants and caterers, sponsored by the Ballston Spa Educational Foundation, will be presented on Monday, March 31, 2008, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the cafeteria of the Ballston Spa High School on Ballston Avenue.

Admission is $30.00 per person or $55.00 per couple.  As in previous years anticipate a sellout crowd, so tickets will be available by advance purchase only. More information and ticket purchases are available at www.ballstonspaeducationfoundation.com or by calling BSEF board member, Meg Stevens at 885-3650. 

 Participating in this year’s event will be Augies Family Style Restaurant, Bentley’s Restaurant, Fifty South, Front St. Deli, Good Times Lakeview Restaurant, Great Bay Clam Co., Lake Ridge Restaurant, Main Street Diner, McDonalds of Ballston Spa, My Other Kitchen, Patty-Cake Shoppe, Pizza Works, Ripe Tomato, Sonny & Jeff’s, Stewart’s Shops, Sunset Café, Whitehouse Restaurant, Wild Thyme Whole Food & Tea Company and Vermont Water. This is the sixth year of sponsoring this event and each year the event grows more successful thanks to the participating businesses and guests. 

The Ballston Spa Educational Foundation is a volunteer organization that supports the mission of the Ballston Spa Central School District by raising and distributing resources for educational enrichment outside the realm of the daily operational needs of the District. The BSEF is registered with the Office of the New York State Attorney General, Bureau of Charities.  

Ballston Spa Community Meets Superintendent Candidates

The Ballston Spa Board of Education invited two Superintendent candidates to come back to the district for full day visits.  Dr. Joseph Dragone, Assistant Superintendent at Albany City Schools, and Mr. Joseph Hochreiter, Deputy Superintendent at Elmira City Schools, were selected as the finalists for the position. After a tour of the district in the morning, they were able to meet with school/representative groups throughout the afternoon and evening.  Both candidates were able to present their “entry plan” to the community at an evening forum and discuss ideas of how they would begin their work in the district, should they be selected.

Various constituency groups had the opportunity to meet with the candidates and get to know them better and provide feedback to the Board of Education members. Students, support personnel, administrators, teaching faculty, and the parents/community members all had separate sessions as well as attending the evening presentations. The Board of Education members then met with the candidates at the end of each evening.  

The Board members will now analyze the feedback and finish the selection process, including visits to the other districts. They would like to make a final decision on the next Superintendent during the coming weeks and appoint the new school leader in April. Please contact the District Office for additional information at 884-7195 ext. 310.

Ballston Spa Schools Interviewing Superintendent Candidates

The Board of Education has continued the selection process for a new Superintendent of Schools and invited candidates to come back to the district for full day visits.  After a lengthy process this winter that included screening applications and interviewing seven candidates, the Board members decided upon candidates to move forward to meet with school/representative groups throughout the school district.  The first candidate will visit the district on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 and the second on Monday, March 17, 2008.

The day will start with school tours and introductions, and then follow with interviews for the rest of the afternoon and into the evening. Various constituency groups will have the opportunity to spend up to one hour with the candidate for a Q & A session during their visit to the district.  Students, support personnel, administrators, teaching faculty, and the parents/community members will all have separate sessions to meet the candidates and provide input to the Board of Education.

The Superintendent candidates will make an open presentation to the entire community at 7:30 pm. The community forum will be their opportunity to present their ideas on an entry plan for assuming the role of Superintendent of Schools. The Board of Education members will meet with the candidate at the end of the evening.

The Board members plan to finish the selection process, including visits to other districts, and make a decision on the next Superintendent during the coming weeks. The schedule is to appoint the new school leader in the spring and have them start by July 1, 2008. Please contact the district office for additional information at 884-7195 ext. 310.
 

Dr. Rimm Presentation Postponed

The workshop on "Parenting the Gifted Child" by Dr. Sylvia Rimm scheduled for Tuesday, February 26, 2008 will be postponed due to impending inclement weather. The presentation will be rescheduled shortly. For additional information, please call the District Office at 884-7195.
 

Ballston Spa Students Place Third in Science Olympiad
 
The Ballston Spa High School Science Olympiad team recently turned in their best overall finish by placing 3rd out of 22 teams at the regional competition at the College of Saint Rose. The 3rd place finish qualified the team for the State competition at West Point Military Academy to be held on March 14th and 15th. The Science Olympiad tournament is a rigorous, academic, interscholastic competition that consists of a series of individual and team events, which the students prepare for throughout the year. The events are well balanced between the various science disciplines of biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, computers and technology. The team of 15 students competed in 21 events which range from the construction of a robot to college-level pen-and-paper assessments. Recipients of medals for Ballston Spa include:
 
Mike Audi (SumoBot 3rd, Bomilever 4th); Victoria Ballestero (Food Science 3rd); James Diotte (Environmental Chemistry 1st, Chemistry Lab 1st, Herpetology 1st); Matt Hosek (Cell Biology 1st, Herpetology 1st); Catie Newhouse (Environmental Chemistry 1st, 5-Star Science 2nd, Forensics 4th); Chris Schmitt (Chemistry Lab 1st, 5-Star Science 2nd, Forensics 4th); Harry Shore (Cell Biology 1st, Physics Lab 4th); Adam Marré (Remote Sensing 2nd, Boomilever 4th); Taylor Grant-Knight (Physics Lab 4th); Linda Webber (Food Science 3rd); Victor DelRegno (Remote Sensing 2nd).
 
 

List of students in photo:
Harry Shore, Matt Hosek, Stephanie Stawniczy, Taylor Grant-Knight, Catie Newhouse, Alex Kisel, Chris Schmitt, James Diotte, Victoria Ballestero, Adam Marre, Mike Markewitz, Mike Audi, Victor DelRegno,
Josh Myers, Sarah Samascott, Stephanie Samascott

Pizza and Wings Night at Ballston Spa High School

The Class of 2008 has rescheduled the annual Pizza and Wings Night in the High School cafeteria for Wednesday, March 5th from 6:00 -7:30pm. Many local pizza and/or wing businesses have agreed to participate in this annual event, others are welcome to join. The current winners of this event are Pizza Works for the best pizza category and Almost Saratoga for the best wings category. Everyone is invited to come taste and vote for the best pizza and wings in the area. Tickets are available at the door and admission is $5. For more information please call the Class of 2008 advisor Patricia Halpin at 884-7150 ext. 5515. Please come help determine the best pizza and wings of 2008!

Ballston Spa Hosts Kindergarten Parent Orientation
 
The Milton Terrace Primary School in Ballston Spa has scheduled a parent orientation for all families in the Ballston Spa Central School District who will have a kindergarten student starting school in the fall of 2008. The school has compiled a list of all potential incoming students for the fall of 2008 and will be sending a letter to their parents on February 1st containing information about the program, along with the registration and screening process. The orientation will be held on February 28th, in the school's North Cafeteria at 7:00 pm. Parents of children who will be five years of age on or before December 1, 2008 are asked to contact MaryBeth Leslie, at mleslie@bscsd.org or 884-7270, ext. 411, if the letter from school is not received by February 8th.

 
Ballston Spa Plans Reconfiguration of Elementary Schools
 
The Ballston Spa Board of Education has continued to examine the district's academic programming and recently decided to implement a full day Kindergarten program in the fall of 2008. The district's Kindergarten Task Force concluded that the district would better serve students and the academic program by starting students in a full day Kindergarten program and to also study the possibility of reconfiguring the elementary schools into a K-5 format simultaneously. The Board of Education had already decided to return to a Kindergarten through 5th grade elementary school configuration last spring during facility discussions as they prepare for the future. They now are considering the timing of the change and the possibilities of reconfiguring into four elementary schools in the existing school buildings, while future renovations and construction can be designed and completed.
 
A Kindergarten Transition Administrator has been secured to assist the elementary staff with the logistics of implementing a full day program next fall. Retired school administrator, Mr. Charles Smith will assist the district with the planning phases and implementation of a program. Mr. Smith has served in a variety of administrative roles throughout the capital district, including a one-year interim appointment as principal of the Milton Terrace Primary School. He will be visiting with staff, parents and students throughout the spring and compiling an implementation plan.
 
The district has organized a Parent Forum to discuss the plans on January 31, 2008, at 6:30 pm in the Wood Road/Milton Terrace Cafetorium. Interested parents are invited to attend the public forum to learn more about the full day Kindergarten program and the timing of the K-5 reconfiguration. Also, the Board of Education will be discussing the timing of the K-5 reconfiguration at a special meeting on February 6, 2008, at 7:00 pm, in the District Office boardroom.
 
Any specific input or comments may be directed to Mr. Charles Smith at the Wood Road School or csmith@bscsd.org  or the Board of Education via boe@bscsd.org; or by calling the Superintendent's Office at 884-7195 ext. 310.

Summary of the Facilities Discussion Meeting - January 16, 2008

President Jarvis opened the meeting and welcomed everyone to the Board’s monthly discussion meeting. She indicated that they would specifically be focusing on the timing of the K-5 reconfiguration and implementation items.  She mentioned the Board would not be making a decision at the meeting but would try to touch on the issues that they needed to be aware of as we proceed with the planning process. President Jarvis said that the Superintendent would present and then they would have a discussion. The Board then wanted to hear public input and conclude with a recommendation for the administration. 

Superintendent Colucciello presented a summary of where we are and how we need to make a decision for the benefit of the students, ideally in the next couple of weeks. He presented a variety of reasons to proceed with the planning process, including:

1. Transitions for students would be reduced if we implemented the full day Kindergarten program and the K-5 reconfiguration at the same time. This would allow for programs in reading/math to be implemented simultaneously and increase student achievement.

2. The new configuration, into four K-5 schools (Wood Road, Malta Avenue, Milton Terrace North and Milton Terrace South), would allow for stronger elementary programming, increased accountability and would build community among staff, parents and students.

3. The schools would be able to prepare for the future together, including moves to new facilities when Malta Avenue is relocated to newly constructed space.

4. It would allow for a balance of student enrollment numbers between buildings, level out staffing ratios and equalize programs/services.

5. The staff / parents /community are ready to pursue implementation if planned well and done one time correctly.

Board of Education Discussions:

The Board of Education had a lengthy discussion about the implementation process and the implications of reorganizing for the fall of 2008.  They also discussed some of the facilities/building projects and how they are related to the reorganization. Several staff members provided information on how the plans would be implemented and what needs to be done to successfully implement in the fall. Several staff members expressed their concerns for “doing it well” and a couple parents described their thoughts about reconfiguration.

Conclusion:

President Jarvis asked the administration to work with staff and continue to put together the information needed to make a final decision, including cost estimates, timing and other logistics. She set the February 6, 2008 deadline for the Board of Education to reconvene and listen to the responses to their concerns.  Dr. Colucciello indicated the Board should let him know of any specific issues they need addressed and that they would receive the information on February 1, 2008.

The Board of Education plans to meet on February 6, 2008 at 7:00 pm in the District Office for another facilities discussion.

Additional upcoming meetings include:

 January 23, 2008 - Regular Meeting at the High School Library - 7:00 pm - agenda includes a High School presentation and a report on the plans for facilities/building projects in the district.

February 13, 2008 - Regular Meeting - District Office - 7:00 pm - agenda includes Emergency Preparedness Plan updates.

District Proceeds with Full-day Kindergarten Implementation

Superintendent Dr. Raymond Colucciello brought forth the recommendations of the district’s Kindergarten Task Force to move forward with plans to implement a full-day Kindergarten program in the fall of 2008. The State Education Department (SED) recently informed districts of additional funding for planning and preparing for the implementation of a full day program in September 2008. Ballston Spa remains as one of the few school districts in the state with a half-day program, which limits the educational program of the youngest students in the community.

 SED will also provide Kindergarten incentive aid, starting immediately upon implementation, which will allow the district to offer a full day program, including additional staff, at minimal costs to the local budget. Dr. Colucciello indicated that “the academic and social benefit to over 275 incoming Kindergarten students is of utmost importance to the district and community.  The benefits will be long lasting as the students proceed through the academic program and their educational careers.”

Chairperson Antonietta Schroeder (Milton Terrace Primary Center Assistant Principal) presented the committee’s proposal, which included adoption of the full-day program, to continue to examine the reconfiguration of schools into a Kindergarten to fifth grade format in the fall of 2008 and to continue to support the Head Start program in the district’s facilities. Milton Terrace Principal Joseph Lopez also answered questions and addressed concerns from the Board members. The Board of Education agreed to move forward with the recommendation and Superintendent Colucciello signed the SED “letter of intent” to proceed.

The district staff will now address the specific details and additional plans for implementation in the fall of 2008. The Board of Education will continue to discuss the timing of the reorganization of the elementary schools to a K-5th grade format at a facilities discussion meeting on January 16, 2008 in the District Office at 7:00pm.

Parents of incoming Kindergarten students for the 2008-09 school year will be receiving registration information from the school directly during the coming weeks. Parent meetings will also be scheduled in February for parents to learn more about the Kindergarten registration process and the school. Any parent or guardian who is not sure if the school has a student’s contact information should call Milton Terrace Primary Center at 884-7270 ext. 411.

Ballston Spa Students Visit France

Ballston Spa High School students and chaperones recently participated in a nine day school exchange with Collège Carnot in Lille, France. Students were hosted by French families where they were able to experience French culture and language on a daily basis. They attended school with their French student hosts and also took trips to London, Bruges, Paris and Brussels. There was a reception for the Ballston Spa students and teachers at the Lille Town Hall where Deputy Mayor of Lille in charge of International Relations and Tourism, Martine Filleul, and American Consul to Lille, Jeff Hawkins, welcomed the Ballston Spa students and spoke to them about the benefits and advantages of cultural exchanges, of learning new languages and of experiencing different cultures. The French students and the American students participated in numerous group activities at the French school which enhanced the relationships between them. The Ballston Spa High School students and their teachers are looking forward to hosting the French students in Ballston Spa from March 21-April 4, 2008. Please contact the high school Foreign Languages Department for more information at 884-7150.

Ballston Spa Students present Annie Get Your Gun

Launching Pad Productions, Ballston Spa Middle School's drama club, will be performing Irving Berlin's classic musical, Annie Get Your Gun. Performances will be February 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 7:00 and matinees on February 2 and 9 at 1:00 at the Ballston Spa High School auditorium.

The production features Danielle DiLorenzo playing the lead role of Annie Oakley, Scott Ferron playing sharpshooter Frank Butler, Daniel Batista playing the role of Buffalo Bill, and Dylan Prehoda and Aryle Pastore playing the roles of Tommy Keeler and Winnie Tate respectively. The show also features Gretel Wilson as Dolly Tate, Tyler Loewenstein as Charlie Davenport, Ryan Nolan as Pawnee Bill, and Evan Mendez as Chief Sitting Bull.

Tickets are $6.00 for adults and $5.00 for students and can be purchased at the door prior to the performance. Please contact the Middle School Office at 884-7200 for more information.
 

Adult Sports and Fitness Opportunities at Ballston Spa
 
The Ballston Spa Central School District Community Education Program is currently offering a variety of adult sports opportunities. Sports programs are held from 8:00 - 10:00 pm with Co-ed Indoor Soccer and Co-ed Volleyball held on Mondays, Women 's Basketball on Tuesdays and Men's Basketball on Wednesdays. A 7-week session begins the second week of January and requires a $21 fee for district residents and $24 for non-residents. The popular Walk About program is also available and provides a safe, indoor walking course for those interested in a low impact fitness activity. The program continues through April 10th, Monday through Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 7:30 pm, when school is in session. The annual registration fee is $15 for district residents.
 
Pre-registration is required and fees are due at the beginning of each course. Those interested may register for courses by mail or in-person at the Office of Community Resources, Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm at the District Office, 70 Malta Avenue. Additional information regarding any of the courses offered may be obtained by calling 884-7195 x 329.

Click here for the Registration Form.

Ballston Spa Students Present Winter Concerts

The Ballston Spa Central School District Music Department is presenting several concerts during the upcoming weeks. The concerts are free and members of the community are welcome to attend. Students and families are specifically invited and encouraged to attend and support the performing artists.
The concert series begins on December 4th with the first presentation featuring the High School Orchestra, Women's Choir, and Symphonic Band. The second part of the high school series will feature the Jazz Band, Select Chorus, Concert Choir and Wind Ensemble on December 6th. The concerts begin at 7:30 pm and will be held in the Ballston Spa High School Auditorium at 220 Ballston Avenue.
There will also be a pasta dinner available on December 6th from 5:30-7:00 pm in the High School Cafeteria to eat in or take out. The tickets are $7.00 and are available at the door or in advance from band members.
Malta Avenue Intermediate School will host the annual Winter Concert featuring the Orchestra, Band and Chorus in the Malta Avenue Auditorium, 70 Malta Avenue, on December 11th at 7:00 pm.
The Middle School Winter Concerts will begin on December 12th, featuring the Middle School Bands. On December 13th the Orchestra and Choral Groups will perform. Both concerts begin at 7:00 pm and are held in the High School Auditorium.
The students from Wood Road Intermediate School will present a Winter Concert featuring the Orchestra, Band and Chorus on Thursday, December 20th at 7:00 pm in the High School Auditorium.
Please call the appropriate school for additional information or check the district website at www.bscsd.org http://www.bscsd.org.

Ballston Spa PTA Council Presents " Stress and Your School-Age Child"
 
The Ballston Spa PTA Council will host an informative workshop about Stress and Your School-Age Child in the High School Library on Monday, November 19th at 7:00 pm. School Age Education Coordinator Lynn M. Siebert from the Capital District Child Care Coordinating Council, will be the guest presenter and will discuss how parents can address the issues of stress and how we can help children develop effective coping skills. Parents are encouraged to come and hear helpful advice to utilize with raising children in today 's society. The Parent Development Night program is open to parents from throughout the area and the community as well. Please contact John Cummings, President of PTAC, at 885-7641 for additional information.

Ballston Spa Schools Plan Emergency Drill

An Early Dismissal Drill has been scheduled for the Ballston Spa schools on Friday, November 9, 2007. This state-mandated drill will take place at schools throughout Saratoga County and is part of the district ' s Emergency Management Plan to be prepared for adverse conditions or building problems. As a result of the drill, all students will be dismissed fifteen minutes earlier than their normal afternoon dismissal time.

In addition, the schools in Ballston Spa will be closed in observance of Veteran ' s Day on Monday, November 12th. Classes will resume on Tuesday, November 13th.
 

College and Career Night at B'Spa High School

The Ballston Spa High School Guidance Department will host a "College and Career Night" on Wednesday, October 17, 2007 at 7:00 pm in the Social Studies Department. Guest speakers will present nine different workshops on topics to prepare students for the career and college searches.

College representatives and high school counselors will cover the two and four-year college admissions process, financial aid for college, writing a college application essay, adjusting to college life, SAT/ACT programs, services for students with special needs and give an overview of the different colleges in the SUNY system. Parents and students are encouraged to attend and will be able to select three workshops.

For additional information, please call the BSHS Guidance Office at 884-7150 ext. 2360.

 
Ballston Spa High School Hosts Homecoming Events

The Ballston Spa homecoming and spirit celebration begins on Thursday, October 11th with a Homecoming Pep Rally at 7:00 pm at the BSHS football field on Garrett Road. The student government (CSL) plans an evening of fun for students, alumni and community members. All varsity athletes will be introduced and seniors will be recognized. The Homecoming Court will be announced, the cheerleaders will perform, and the evening will conclude with fireworks behind the school complex.

On Friday, October 12th a BBQ chicken dinner provided by Giffy' s Barbeque will be available from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the High School, 220 Ballston Ave. The cost of a meal is $10 and dinners are available for eating in or as a take-out. The Varsity Football Game will be played against Queensbury at 7:00 pm. The Select Chorus and the Pep Band will perform during the game. During half time, the Homecoming King and Queen for all grades will be introduced along with the class Homecoming Courts.

The Homecoming Dance will be held on Saturday, October 13th from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm in the cafeteria. Tickets are being sold during school and will not be sold at the door. Please call the High School Office at 884-7150 ext. 2350 for more information.

Ballston Spa Schools Launch Notifier System

The Ballston Spa Schools are now participating in an opt-in e-mail notification system for parents and residents to receive e-mail alerts from the district. The School News Notifier (SNN) system is used by district and school leaders to send district news and information about emergency school closings. Users can choose to receive any or all of the alerts and can unsubscribe at any time. All e-mail addresses are kept confidential. The district is offering 7 different alerts at this time, one for emergency information, one for district information and one for each of the schools to utilize. Registration is done quickly on-line by going to http://snn.neric.org/bspa/index.cfm .

School District Receives Top State Recognition

The Ballston Spa School District has received an award as one of the top schools in the state for their fiscal oversight and management practices. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, personally attended a news conference outside Ballston Spa High School recently and indicated that the finances have been well managed. He also indicated that since the comptroller's office began auditing schools, fewer than 5 percent of the 240 audits completed so far have revealed similar strong financial controls.

He presented Superintendent Dr. Raymond Colucciello and Board of Education President Kathleen Jarvis with a "gold star" award in recognition of the district's audit results at the news conference, which was well attended by parents, Participation in Government Students, staff and Board of Education members and several media representatives. It was an honor and a great day for the school district and the community. Additional information and copies of the audit are available from the New York State Comptroller' s Office at www.osc.state.ny.us

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Ballston Spa School District Receives School Supply Donations

Students in the Ballston Spa Central School District will return to school on September 6^th and some will receive brand new backpacks full of school supplies. The Community Services Committee from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently collected school supplies from employees and together with backpacks donated by the Malta Sunrise Rotary Club were able to provide 80 full backpacks to the district. The district’s social workers and homeless coordinator will identify students to receive the backpacks in each of the school district’s five schools.  

Shown in the photo (L-R) are the Chairman of the Community Services Committee Bob Brilling and Rotary President Kevin Hunt, both from NYSERDA and Malta Sunrise Rotary members, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Raymond Colucciello and Jillina Baxtel from NYSERDA and Co-chair of the Community Services Committee.

Additional donations of school supplies were received from employees at State Farm Insurance Company’s regional office in Malta. The school supplies will be provided throughout the district to assist children in need. Additional information is available from the Office of Community Relations at 884-7195 ext. 329.

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Beginning of School Information

The first day of school is September 6th for all students in the Ballston Spa Central School District. Any new students moving into the district need to register at the BSCSD Transportation Facility on Rt. 50 south. Please see the website for registration information and/or call 602-0256 for more information and to schedule an appointment. Students receive information about their bus and transportation schedule directly from the Transportation Department.

Meet the Teacher Nights are held in each school during September and October so parents can come into the schools and learn more about their child 's classes. The High School night is on September 18th, Milton Terrace Primary School on the 19th, Wood Road Intermediate School on September 24th and Malta Avenue Intermediate School on October 2nd. The Middle School will host several evenings by grade level. The Sixth grade night is scheduled for September 20th, the Seventh Grade on September 27th and the Eighth grade night on October 4th. Information on schools, events, PTAs and other organizations is available at the appropriate school night.
 
An elementary staff development day is also scheduled for September 21st. Grades Kindergarten through fifth have a half-day of school, with only the AM Kindergarten students attending school in the morning. Breakfast and lunch menus for the beginning of the year are available on the district website. For additional information, please check the district website at: www.bscsd.org
 

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Ballston Spa Schools - Back-to-School/Orientation Schedules

August 27 or 28, 2007 - Kindergarten Orientation

Milton Terrace Primary Center - 884-7270
Parents will receive information directly from the school, but can anticipate a session for both parent and child to become more familiar with the school. Parents from the Red and Blue cluster are invited to attend on August 27th. The parents from the Green and Yellow cluster will attend on the 28th. Parents with students in AM Kindergarten will begin orientation at 9:00 am while the PM Kindergarten parents will begin their session at 1:00 pm. A Summer Open House for all K-2^nd grade students is also scheduled for Thursday, August 30th, from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.          

August 30, 2007 - Summer Open Houses - 10 am - 2 pm
Students and families are invited to tour the school and become acquainted with the building layout. Additional information will be available near the main offices.

Wood Road Intermediate School     (Grades 3-5)   884-7290
Malta Avenue Intermediate School (Grades 3-5)   884-7250
Milton Terrace Primary School       (Grades K-2)  884-7270

August 30, 2007 - Sixth Grade/New Student Orientation

6:30 pm or 7:00 pm - Ballston Spa Middle School - 884-7200
All students who will be attending the Middle School for the first time this fall are invited and encouraged to attend this orientation. The program will begin in the High School auditorium, followed by a tour of the Middle School. Starting at 6:30 pm, students on the 6A and 6B teams AND any 7th or 8th grade student new to the district should attend the opening session in the auditorium. 
At 7:00 pm, students on the 6C and 6D teams should attend, and start at the auditorium. Students should bring their schedules and locker information that was mailed prior to Orientation Night. Due to the number of people attending, only middle school students and parents/guardians should attend and plan to tour the Middle School to find classrooms, lockers, purchase agendas and visit with the PTA. 

September 4, 2007 - Ninth Grade/New Student Orientation

7:00 pm – Ballston Spa High School – 884-7150
All students and parents who will be attending the High School for the first time this fall are invited and encouraged to attend this orientation. The program will begin at 7:00 pm in the auditorium. New students and entering freshmen will receive their class schedules at orientation. The  students will also receive a floor plan and other useful information. Agendas can be purchased for $5.00. In addition, high school personnel and older students will be available to answer questions and guide freshmen and parents through the building.

September 5, 2007

1:00 pm - Ballston Spa High School - 884-7150
Tours for all students and their parents will be given, beginning in the guidance office.

Additional beginning of the year information:
First Day of School is September 6^th for all students in the district. An Elementary Staff Development Day is scheduled for September 21^st - Grades K-5 have a half-day of school, with only the AM Kindergarten attending school that day. Menus are available on the district website for both breakfast and lunch options. For additional information, please check the district website at:  www.bscsd.org

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Ballston Spa Schools Receive Healthy Heart Grants, 8/07

The School Beat Healthy Heart Program presented all five schools in the Ballston Spa Central School District with a $1,000 grant at a recent Board of Education meeting. The School Beat Healthy Heart Program, which is supported and funded by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), is part of a statewide effort aimed at supporting schools that are in the process of building a sustainable and stable infrastructure for coordinated school health. 

The Board of Education adopted a Health and Wellness policy last year in compliance with federal mandates, and the grants from this program will further the implementation of health and wellness programming with all students. Each school in the district has a healthy school team, which decided where the $1,000 funding should be utilized based on their individual school needs. The grants will be used to purchase items such as pedometers, elliptical machines, exercise balls, cardiovascular/nutritional posters and books, along with other exercise equipment to support walking and physical education programs that are already being implemented throughout the district. 

This local Healthy Heart Program is part of a statewide effort by NYSDOH to decrease the number of people who experience heart disease and strokes later in life. “We’re not talking about simply starting an exercise program.  We want to see schools make policy decisions that will lead to life-long healthy habits”, said Jeanie Tate, School Beat Healthy Heart Coordinator. These changes could include which foods and beverages are offered in vending machines, the menus for school lunches, how much exercise is included in gym programs, and how many students are involved in breakfast programs. Grants assist the school in implementing its school wellness policy by creating healthier options for nutrition and activity in the districts. 

Participating schools receive funds after completing a “School Health Index” that identifies strengths and weaknesses, and developing a School Health Improvement Plan based on the results. Funds can be used by schools for activities such as increased walking, purchasing supplies for after school activity programs, or improving vending machine options for milk or other healthy items. 

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has committed to provide $500,000, over five years, for the School Beat Healthy Heart Program – an effort to promote better nutrition and more physical activity in area schools.  The program, which includes funding for up to 100 schools, will be directed by the Upper Hudson Primary Care Consortium. “Our goal is to help schools make long-term policy decisions to promote healthier eating habits and increased physical activity”, said Jeanie Tate. Over a five-year period, the program will be brought to schools in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties. 

Healthy Heart Coordinator Jeanie Tate presents a check for $5,000 to Ballston Spa Board of Education President Kathy Jarvis, District Health Leader Martha Morrissey and Superintendent Dr. Raymond Colucciello at a recent Board of Education meeting.

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Ballston Spa Sports Information, 8/07

The Ballston Spa Athletic Department is offering a program on August 20th for all high school athletes and their parents. An overview of the high school sports program will begin at 7pm in the auditorium. The program will conclude with individual coaches meeting with the athletes and parents for the fall sports teams. All students interested in joining a high school athletic team are encouraged to attend the evening, and at least one parent or guardian is expected to accompany their student. Practices begin on the 20th for most sports teams. Football practices start on the 13th for varsity and junior varsity level athletes and the freshmen begin on the 15th. Modified football and volleyball teams start on September 1st and the rest of the modified teams start on September 4th. Please check the school website for information at <http://www.bscsd.org/High_School/Sports.htm> or contact the high school at 884-7150 ext. 2377.

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Ballston Spa Sports Physicals

Ballston Spa students participating in a school sport for the 2007-08 school year can sign up for a FREE sports physical in the high school health office. Physicals will be held on Friday, August 3, 2007 and students must schedule an appointment for a physical. Parents can call Kathleen L. Beers, RN, School Nurse Ballston Spa High School at 884-7150 ext. 2370, Monday - Thursday from 7:30 am - 1:30 pm to schedule an appointment or for more information.

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Students who have not yet been registered need to enroll in school at the registration office in the District Transportation Facility. Please call 602-0256 for additional information on registration or visit the district website at www.bscsd.org.

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Education Foundation Hosts Annual Golf Tournament
 
The Ballston Spa Education Foundation will be hosting its annual golf tournament on August 27, 2007 at the Ballston Spa County Club. The tournament is a four person scramble format. The cost is $125 per person or $400 for a foursome. Registration begins at 10:00 am, lunch is served at 12:00 and a shotgun start is scheduled for 1:00 pm. Dinner and awards will follow the tournament at around 6:30 PM. Prizes include low gross and net contests, a hole in one contest sponsored by Mangino Pontiac Buick, closest to the pin, longest drive and many door prizes.
 
The Foundation is seeking companies or individuals to sponsor the tournament. More information on levels of sponsorship is available on the BSEF website.
 
The Ballston Spa Education Foundation is a volunteer, not-for-profit corporation founded to raise and distribute resources for educational enrichment outside the daily operational needs of the School District. Since its inception in 1996 the BSEF has provided more that $191,000 for educational enrichment projects.
 
Please call 884-7195 ext. 402 for more information and registration forms or visit the foundation website at http://www.ballstonspaeducationfoundation.com/

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Doheny Oil Awards Grant To Ballston Spa Middle School
 
The Ballston Spa Middle School recently received a grant from the Doheny Oil Corporation to fund scientific equipment. Mr. Steve Doheny presented the company's donation of a $1,000 grant to fund science equipment for use in the science labs including a vacuum pump and bell jar (shown in the photo). During a recent visit, Mr. Doheny observed a demonstration of the use of a Van de Graaff generator that was purchased in 2006 from a similar grant, along with microscopes and triple beam balances funded in previous awards.

The Doheny Oil Corporation has been providing grants to the school district for eleven years and continues to be an exemplary  "partner in education". Middle School Principal, Dr. Helen Stuetzel accepted the donation on behalf of the Middle School and expressed appreciation to Mr. Doheny for his generosity and continued commitment throughout the years. Please contact the Middle School for additional information on these grants at 884-7200.

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Ballston Spa School District Pool Hours
 
The Ballston Spa School District has announced public hours for use of the pool in the summer during early morning (6-7 am, Tuesday and Thursday) and late evening (7:15-8:15 pm, Monday and Wednesday) for adult/ lap swimming. The aquatics program is also offering an Aqua Cardio Strengthening class for adults on Monday and Wednesday evenings for an additional fee and pre-registration is required. The Community Swim Program is open to district students, families and community members. District residents need to show identification and pay a $1.00 entrance fee to utilize the pool. Additional information is available on the website at www.bscsd.org/pool or by contacting the Aquatics Coordinator at the pool, 220 Ballston Ave., or 884-7150 ext. 2324.

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