Registration open for LCSD Summer Enrichment Program

Registration is now open for Liberty Central School District’s summer enrichment program. There are numerous workshops offering opportunities for learning and development.

This free program is available for students currently enrolled in kindergarten through 11th grades. Workshops will be held from 7:45 to 11:45 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays in three sessions: July 8-18, July 22-Aug. 1 and Aug. 5-15.

Registration will be open through April 30. In the event of an excess of applicants, a lottery system will be used to select participants. Parents and guardians will be notified of workshop acceptance by June 1. Transportation, as well as breakfast and lunch, will be provided for participants.

For more information or questions, please reach out to Marianne Serratore, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Schools, at mserratore@libertyk12.org or 845-292-5400, ext. 2063.

A pdf is the LCSD Summer Enrichment Program guide is available here or check out the following programs that are being offered, as well as the links to register:

Animation for Grades K-1 and 2-4

Dive into the fascinating world of animation with our engaging course designed for young creatives! Unleash your imagination using Play-Doh, Legos and action figures as you delve into the secrets of movement, sculpture and construction. Through hands-on activities, participants will learn the art of stop-motion animation using the Stop Motion Studio, crafting their own captivating short films. But that’s not all—we take it a step further by blending coding with animation. Embark on an exciting journey as you combine your newfound coding skills with animation techniques to produce a thrilling short film featuring your very own Sphero navigating intricate obstacle courses. This dynamic course is the perfect blend of creativity and technology, ensuring a summer filled with fun, learning, and the joy of bringing your imagination to life!

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades K-1
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 2-4
  • Location: Liberty Elementary School
  • Teacher: Maxine Fodor

Please click on this link to register for our Animation Workshop – English Version

Por favor haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller de Animación – Versión en Español

Coding for Grades K-1 and 2-4

Embark on an exciting journey as students delve into the world of Sphero robotics! Discover the mechanics and control of these fascinating devices, mastering the art of coding to create simple shapes and designs. Harnessing these newfound skills, participants will craft their own unique obstacle courses, navigating both their creations through obstacle courses. This hands-on exploration not only introduces students to Sphero technology but also cultivates teamwork and problem-solving abilities, making learning an exhilarating adventure!

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades K-1
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 2-4
  • Location: Liberty Elementary School
  • Teacher: Ashley Bury

Please click on this link to register for our Coding Workshop – English Version

Por favor haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller de Codificatión – Versión en Español

Purposeful Play for Grades K-1

Immerse your young learners in a delightful experience aimed at enhancing their social and communication skills through enjoyable activities. Guided by an experienced teacher, students will actively participate in a mix of structured and unstructured play activities, fostering a supportive environment for growth and development. From interactive games to collaborative projects, our program is designed to instill essential social and communication skills in a playful and engaging manner. Join us as we create memorable learning moments that go beyond the classroom, preparing young minds for a lifetime of successful interactions and meaningful connections.

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades K-1
  • Location: Liberty Elementary School
  • Teacher: Elana Knight

Please click on this link to register for our Purposeful Play Workshop – English Version

Haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller de juego con propósito – Versión en Español

Exploring Artificial Intelligence for Grades 2-4 and 5-6

Dive into the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence with our immersive AI workshop! Students will embark on a journey of exploration, delving into the fascinating realm of interactive, hands-on AI projects. This workshop is designed to demystify the concepts of artificial intelligence through engaging activities that empower students to actively participate in the learning process.

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 2-4
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 5-6
  • Location: Liberty Middle School
  • Teacher: Natalie Guido

Please click on this link to sign up for our Exploring Artificial Intelligence Workshop – English Version

Haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller de exploración de la inteligencia artificial – Versión en Español

Theater Production for Grades 2-3, 4-5 and 5-6

Is your child a budding star with a passion for the stage? Do they possess an imagination that knows no bounds? Join us for an exciting journey where students collaborate to explore the world of acting and performance. Through dynamic teamwork, participants will delve into the craft of crafting scenes and monologues, honing their skills in the art of performance. Unleash creativity, build confidence and let the spotlight shine on your child’s unique talents as they bring stories to life on the stage.

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 2-3
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 4-5
  • Session 3: Aug. 5-15 for Grades 5-6
  • Location: Liberty Middle School
  • Teacher: Sarah Davis

Please click on this link to register for our Theater Production Workshop – English Version

Por favor haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller de Producción Teatral – Versión en Español

Splash of Math for Grades 2-4

Immerse your child in an exciting and hands-on math enrichment program that goes beyond traditional learning! Our unique and high-energy activities are designed to appeal to kids of all math abilities, making the world of mathematics a thrilling playground for exploration and discovery. From interactive games to collaborative problem-solving challenges, each session is carefully crafted to ignite curiosity and foster a positive relationship with math. Join us on this educational adventure where every child, regardless of their math background, can experience the joy of learning and build confidence in their mathematical abilities. Get ready for an enriching journey that transforms math into an engaging and dynamic experience for your young learner!

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 2-4
  • Location: Liberty Elementary School
  • Teacher: Cynthia Farrand

Please click on this link to register for our Splash of Math Workshop – English Version

Haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller Splash of Math – Versión en Español

Spanish for Grades 3-6

Join Mr. Rash’s Spanish Summer Enrichment Workshops for a vibrant journey to enhance your Spanish skills and immerse yourself in diverse cultures through enjoyable activities. Elevate your linguistic proficiency and cultural awareness with engaging games such as Bingo, GimKit, Trashket-Ball, Horseshoes and Ring-Tosses. Also experience the joy of learning outdoors! Spend your summer connecting with Mr. Rash and get ready to shine as a superstar Spanish student!

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 3-6
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 3-6
  • Session 3: Aug. 5-15 for Grades 3-6
  • Location: Liberty Middle School
  • Teacher: Christopher Rash

Please click on this link to register for our Spanish Workshop – English Version

Haga clic en este enlace para registrarse en nuestro Taller en Español – Versión en Español

Career Explorations for Grades 5-6, 7-8 and 9-10

Unlock a world of possibilities with our Career Exploration Course! Designed for young minds eager to discover their passions and interests, this program offers insightful glimpses into diverse professions. Through community participation,  interactive sessions and engaging activities, participants will gain valuable insights, inspiration, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths. Empower your child to dream big and envision a future filled with exciting possibilities!

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 5-6
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 7-8
  • Session 3: Aug. 5-15 for Grades 9-10
  • Location: Liberty Middle School
  • Teacher: Cathryn Dymond

Please click here to register for our Career Explorations Workshop – English Version

Haga clic aquí para registrarse en nuestro Taller de exploración profesional – Versión en Español

Exploring the Seven Habits

Embark on an exciting journey with the 7 Habits, where learning becomes an adventure! Join us for a dynamic experience filled with engaging activities, hands-on projects, and interactive sessions, including enriching elements like role-playing, creative crafts, and captivating reader’s theater. Unleash the power of the 7 Habits in a fun and experiential setting, where participants not only grasp these essential principles but also apply them through creative expression and collaboration. Come, explore, and enjoy the transformative journey of personal and leadership development in an atmosphere of joy and discovery. Transportation will be provided.

  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades K-1
  • Session 3: Aug. 5-15
  • Location: Liberty Elementary School
  • Teacher: Dakota Hahl

Please click here to register for our Exploring the Seven Habits Workshop – English Version

Haga clic aquí para registrarse en nuestro Taller de Exploración de los Siete Hábitos – Versión en Español

Science Explorers Summer Adventure

Join us for an unforgettable journey of discovery at the Science Explorers Summer Adventure. Our hands-on, inquiry-based program is designed to ignite curiosity and inspire young minds through engaging science activities. From exploring the wonders of nature to unraveling the mysteries of the universe, students will embark on exciting adventures tailored to their age group. Our expert instructor will foster a love for learning as students conduct experiments, solve challenges, and unleash their creativity in a fun and supportive environment. Get ready to dive into the world of science and make memories that last a lifetime at Science Explorer’s Science Adventure.

  • Session 1: July 8-18 for Grades 2-4
  • Session 2: July 22 – Aug. 1 for Grades 5-7
  • Session 3: Aug. 5-15 for Grades 8-11
  • Location: Liberty Middle School
  • Teacher: Katarina McGinn

Please click here to register for our Science Explorers Summer Adventure – English Version

Haga clic aquí para registrarse en nuestra aventura de verano para exploradores científicos – Versión en Español

Sports schedule, and results, for the week (plus) of March 22-31, 2024

Our athletes will be in action in baseball and softball this week. 

Here are the schedule and results, if available. Livestream links are included where available.

Friday, March 22

4:30 p.m.:  Varsity Baseball vs. Chester Academy at Chester Academy Chester Academy-Middle/High School

4:30 p.m.: JV Baseball vs.  vs. Chester Academy atMaple Avenue School (Chester)

Saturday, March 23

No events scheduled.

Sunday, March 24

No events scheduled.

Monday, March 25

3:30 p.m.: Varsity Baseball  vs. S.S. Seward Institute at The Rock Sports Park

4 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Fallsburg at Benjamin Cosor Elementary School

Tuesday, Feb. 26

No events scheduled

Wednesday, March 27

4:15 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Middletown at Middletown High School Faller Field Complex

Thursday, March 28

4 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Monticello at Monticello High School

4 p.m.: JV Baseball vs. Monticello at Somerville Athletic Field

Friday, March 29

No events scheduled.

Saturday, March 30

No events scheduled

Sunday, March 31

No events scheduled

The schedule is subject to change. Check the Liberty schedule on the Section 9 website for the latest. 

A message from the superintendent regarding a trespass incident

Dear Liberty,

We wanted to provide you with an update regarding an incident that occurred at our school grounds at the end of the school day today, March 25.

A community member who is not permitted on school grounds attempted to gain access. However, our staff promptly identified the individual, and the Liberty Police Department responded swiftly. The person was promptly removed from the school grounds. We want to assure you that at no point was there any threat to the safety of our students and staff.

We understand that incidents like these can cause concern, but we want to emphasize that the reasons this individual is not permitted on school grounds do not relate to any safety concerns for our students and staff.

The safety and security of our school community remain our top priority, and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure a safe learning environment for everyone.

Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick Sullivan
Superintendent

Wizards entertain at Liberty PTA fundraiser

On Monday night, March 18, visitors to Liberty High School gymnasium couldn’t be sure if they were there to attend a basketball game or a party.

But that’s typical when the Harlem Wizards come to town. The basketball team/entertainers returned to Liberty to take on the Redhawks staff as part of a fundraiser for the Liberty PTA.

Students slap hands of staff as they are introduced at the Wizards game and a player watchesBefore a packed gymnasium, the Wiz Kids (children who had Wizards jerseys) were introduced and were able to warm up with the Wizards players. After introductions of the Redhawks and Wizards players, the party … errrr, game … began.

There were plenty of trick shots by the Wizards, and some impressive scoring by the Redhawks, but the score was secondary to the fun. The Master of Ceremonies kept the audience singing and dancing throughout the event, with the third quarter part karaoke, part dance party in the stands, as some of the players switched teams to continue the game. The Wizards interacted with the fans, offering high fives, going into the stands, leading the crowd in dances and more.

The Redhawks staff team members weren’t immune to the Wizards antics, often becoming part of the entertainment.

A Wizards player hands out jerseys to studentsAt the half, students who had courtside player tickets were able to take part in a three-minute basketball game with the Wizards, and the players autographed jerseys and balls, took selfies and spoke to the fans.

Near the end of the fourth quarter a football game broke out, interrupted by Kung Fu moves, dancing and more.

With 10 seconds left on the clock, the clock was stopped and the students in the audience were invited onto the floor for a dance party and counted down the last 10 seconds of the game.

Proceeds from the fundraiser are used by the Liberty PTA for scholarships, assemblies, events and materials for students.

Oh yeah, the Wizards won, 75-64.

More photos are available on LCSD’s social media pages, and a video can be seen here:

Growth and ‘Disruptive Thinking’ themes of LCSD PD day

Friday, March 15, was another day of learning for faculty and staff at Liberty Central School District.

Eric SheringerA day off for students, the Professional Development Day began with breakfast in the high school cafeteria followed by keynote speaker Eric Sheninger, founder and chief executive officer of Aspire Change EDU, in the high school auditorium. The educational consultant has been working with the high school as part of the LHS School Comprehensive Education Plan. Sheninger gave the presentation “Disruptive Thinking in our Classrooms.”

“To change or grow, we must challenge conventional wisdom,” he said.

Often using humor and short videos, he encouraged faculty and administrators to rethink four core items — normal, learning, learners and mindset — in an effort to have transformative change that will improve academic and social outcomes for the students.

A video shows on a screen at the front of an auditorium.“Disruptive thinking is the ability to replace conventional ideas with innovative solutions on authentic problems,” one of his slides read.

Changes have been made throughout the years, but the pandemic forced most schools into the “disruptive thinking” mindset, he said.

Technology was at the forefront of those changes, he said, but not all changes must be technologically based.

Bouncing ideas off of co-workers was also encouraged. He took several “turn-and-learn” breaks, sometimes encouraging staff to  turn to others near them and other times to get up from their seats to find others to discuss a topic.

a person kneels behind a row of seats with others seated in them as the people speak in a group.He emphasized that there are several known practices that help students learn, however there is no standard operating procedure for educators. What works in one classroom may not work in another, or what works for one student may not be the most effective way of learning for a classmate.

“Chase growth, not perfection,” Sheninger said.

He also encouraged teachers to focus on what they can control — primarily how time is used in their classrooms. He also recommended a forward thinking approach of focusing on “What if?” rather than “Yeah, but.”

He used several examples of the impact educators have had on his life.

“Never underestimate or undervalue your impact on kids,” he said.

A man speaks at the back of an auditorium as the audience looks ahead at a screen (not shown)The keynote was followed by Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan, who reviewed the District’s Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Improvement Plan.

Walking around the auditorium as he spoke, he reviewed where the district is in both documents and highlighted benchmark data as well as plans, events and activities that have been implemented in support of the goals of the district and individual schools.

“Growth is happening,” Sullivan said. “We are moving in the right direction.”

He thanked the faculty, staff and administration for working together to meet Liberty’s mission “to empower each student to contribute and thrive in a diverse community by pursuing their potential.”

“Thank you for continuously caring,” he said. “Thank you for always wanting to move forward.”

After a break for lunch, staff and faculty from each school broke out into their own sessions.

The high school again heard from Sheninger, who spoke on adjusting teaching methods to today’s technology.

The middle school took part in a Targeted School Improvement workshop with education consultant Betsy Conners of PLC Associates. The middle school has been designated a Targeted Support and Improvement School, because four student subgroups  — Black, Hispanic, English Language Learners and Economically Disadvantaged — did not meet expectations.

The elementary staff took time in the afternoon to work on their curriculum maps, which help educators align their curriculum with the educational goals of their class.

There were further breakouts for specific staff and faculty roles as well.

LCSD holds regular conference days to offer faculty and staff professional development in support of the district’s five-year strategic plan. The sessions cover all pillars of the plan — curriculum, coherence, culture and MTSS, or Multi-Tier System of Supports.

LCSD budget planning underway

Liberty Central School District school board and administration are working diligently to craft a budget to present to voters on May 21.

This year, the district began the process using a zero-based budgeting model. Rather than using a traditional model of using a set increase over the previous year, zero-based budgeting is like building a budget from scratch, using past data points to highlight needs, mapping out expected revenue from all sources and using the district’s mission, vision, beliefs and goals to help minimize overspending while providing a quality education for the students.

“This type of budgeting helps us prevent compounding mistakes from the past,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said

The first budget presentation to the board took place on Feb. 27, with a follow up on March 12.

The district’s allowable calculated tax levy cap is $18,690,105, an $929,943 increase over the current year levy. Often referenced as a 2% tax cap, the actual calculated limit is rarely 2% and is formulated using several factors, including tax base growth rate, payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreements and excludable expenses.  Districts at or below their calculated cap only need a simple majority for passage of the budget. Liberty’s calculated cap allows for 5.24% increase. The actual increase, if any, will be determined as the budget is finalized.

State aid will not be finalized until the state budget is passed, but Liberty is expecting a slight increase of $285,605 in Foundation Aid. With all sources, state aid is expected to increase $1,766,979.

The budget committee, administration and board will continue to work to create a full budget proposal by the end of the month, with the presentation at the April 2 Board of Education meeting and the budget proposal approved by the board on April 16. Meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. in the high school media center.

The public hearing will take place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, in the high school auditorium.

The budget vote will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, in the h

Food delivery changes, job openings announced

Liberty Central School District recently announced changes to its food delivery policy on its campuses, as well as several job openings in all three buildings.

Food deliveries

As a safety precaution, corporate food delivery services, such as DoorDash, Uber Eats and Slice, will no longer be allowed to any district building starting Monday, March 18, 2024 . Food deliveries from local establishments that offer delivery service will be allowed but orders must be placed by a staff member and cleared through the building’s main office first. Students will not be allowed to place delivery orders to the schools.

Job openings

At the high school, there are two aide positions, a floating substitute as well as business and English teaching positions open. Open positions at the middle school include three part-time lunch monitors, a floating substitute and a front desk greeter. There are two floating substitutes, one part-time aide, a speech and language pathologist and an assistant principal opening at the elementary school. The middle and high school also are hiring for a shared LPN.

More information on these and other positions is available at  https://libertyk12.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx.

Those with questions may email questions@libertyk12.org.

LCSD honors three with Excellence in Service Awards

Three more Liberty Central School District staff members were honored during the March 12 Board of Education meeting.

Recognized with Excellence in Service Awards were high school teacher assistant Quennel Yard, middle school special education teacher Anne Ramos, and elementary school teacher aide Cristina Servellon

Quennel Yard

Two men pose for a photo holding a certificateYard’s cheery and caring attitude were what sets him apart..

“Mr. Yard goes out of his way, every day, to help both teachers, staff and students. He cares about everyone and it shows. Mr. Yard relates to the students like no one else can. He goes out of his way, everyday to do this,” the nomination read. “The day is totally different when he isn’t here and not in a good way. Everyday he greets you with a smile and something nice to say. The world and Liberty is a better place with him here!”

Anne Ramos

A woman holds a certificate flanked by two menRamos was recognized for her work, along with her husband’s, outside of the classroom with Liberty girls soccer and alpine skiing athletes.

“Anne and her husband, Carpio, are a dynamic duo and their dedication to these sports is unmatched,” the nomination read. “They host extra soccer practice for the Liberty girls during the winter to enhance the program without expecting pay. They also have organized a spring travel league for the girls to practice in and have been doing this for years.”

Cristina (Emerita) Servellon

A woman holds a certificate flanked by two menServellon’s willingness to help out where needed earned her the nomination.

“Cristina is always helpful, kind and willing to contact parents for the health office to translate for us. She is always greeting you with a smile,” the nomination read. “She is a lovely human, with a beautiful heart, and her willingness to help, of all places, in the health office just shows that she’s not just coming to work to do her job, but that she’s simply a good person who cares about our students, and those around her!”

Each month, staff members nominate others they believe are going above and beyond, be it a single act of excellence or kindness or a continuous work ethic.

We congratulate these employees on their awards.

Summer enrichment programs planned at LCSD

For the second year, Liberty Central School District is hosting a summer enrichment program that provides chances for students to learn and grow.

This free program is available for students currently enrolled in kindergarten through 11th grades. Workshops will be held Mondays through Thursdays. Exact times will be shared soon.  Session 1 will be held July 8-18. Session 2 will be held July 22-Aug. 1. Session 3 will be held Aug. 5-15.

The district encourages parents and guardians to sign their children up for this wonderful opportunity.

More information, including times, locations and links to sign up, will be sent to families early next month and will be located on the website as well.

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