Jefferson CSD Discusses Multi-Tiered Support System for Students

JEFFERSON - Approves New LED Sign

JEFFERSON — Jefferson Central School held its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, March 19, at 6 p.m. The meeting began with a presentation by JCS principal Mark Muller. Mr. Muller introduced Kevin Kelly and Colleen Crisell, who work for ONC BOCES but are hired through the State Office of Education. They come into districts to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. However, since the district of Jefferson is small, they are able to assist with positive outcomes for all of the students. 

An implementation team has been established in the school, consisting of guidance counselor Alissa Chung, teachers Brideen Edwards and Joe Paraszczuk, and Mark Muller, who runs the team. Muller discussed an “early warning system” that the team has developed, that uses data from each student and may be used to catch a student early enough to ensure that student gets the support needed to succeed. The data can be analyzed by metrics such as attendance, behavior, and academic performance. Color-coded filters will be used to create a snapshot that can be used to identify students in need of specific assistance in certain areas. The system will also be able to track how each student progresses and monitor SAT and regents scores as well. The goal is to have a multi-tiered support system (MTSS), for both elementary and secondary students, so that every student from K-12 gets the support that they need. 

Pete Iorizzo led a presentation on the development of the budget, with two major goals in mind: to grow opportunities for students and to have a sustainable financial model in the face of two significant challenges, both the winding down of COVID stimulus grants, which will be fully closed out in September of this year, and the potential reduction of foundation aid from New York State. 

Governor Hochul’s current budget proposal reduced foundation aid by $811,000, more than 10% of the entire budget, leaving the district with a 1.1 million dollar budget gap. There are three possible pathways forward. One is to reduce expenses, going at, or exceeding the tax gap, or pulling additional monies from savings, or a combination of all three solutions. 

However, both the state legislative houses have put forth their own proposals, which rejected the governor’s proposal about the foundation aid. Under that scenario, this would not only restore the $811,000 but give a 3% increase on top of that. Negotiations are still underway. The budget deadline for the State is April 1. 

A motion passed with a vote of 4 to 1, for the purchase of a double-sided, full-color Atlas outdoor LED sign. The current sign is “antiquated” and unrepairable. Superintendent Dr. Ceng stated that it is “beneficial for communication with the community.” The sign will be purchased from BOCES, with the payments being staggered over four years. The net overall cost after state aid will be approximately $12,000. 

Positive highlights in the school included:

● On February 14, the Girls’ JV Basketball team won the Delaware League Championship against Charlotte Valley. The JCS Parent Group has purchased sweatshirts for the girls to commemorate their success! 

● A Student Senate Blood Drive was held on March 1. The goal was to get 17 donations, and the drive successfully received 21 donations. 

● On March 3, a Family Literacy Night was held in honor of Dr. Seuss. 20 guest readers from Oneonta State, as well as 67 students and parents attended.