Year: 2024
LES offering blender bike usage for birthday celebrations
Liberty Elementary School is offering a new, healthier way for students to celebrate their birthdays in school.
Parents and guardians who would like to have an alternative to unhealthy and expensive cupcakes to help their children celebrate their special day in school may now request the use of a blender bike to make healthy smoothies.
The request should be made at least two weeks in advance to the child’s teacher via a form sent home with students. The form includes the child’s name, classroom teacher and the requested date of the celebration. Ingredients may be sent in with the student or there are two flavor options, mixed berry or banana/pineapple, available through the school. Requests may be made to use the bike during breakfast, which is free, or at other times during the day, which will cost a dollar per student if ingredients will be provided by the school. Cash or checks made payable to Liberty Central School District should be sent in with the form. The English version of the form is available here. The Spanish version of the form is available here.
For more information, email LES Sullivan 180 Healthier Generations Advisors Mary Bayer or Alicia Houghtaling at mbayer@libertyk12.org or ahoughtaling@libertyk12.org
Curriculum alignment, improvement, review progressing under strategic plan
As Liberty Central School District approaches the midway point of its five-year strategic plan, officials are taking time to evaluate what has been accomplished so far and what still needs to be done. Last month, the district reviewed its mission, vision and beliefs. Now focus turns to the Curriculum pillar.
To review the strategic intents of the Curriculum pillar:
- By June 2027, 100% of PreK-12 curriculum will be vertically and horizontally aligned to meet all New York State standards for all content areas as evidenced by improved student outcomes (in all subgroups) on NYS and local assessments and an increased graduation rate.
- By June 2027, 100% of the administrators and teachers will use identified data protocols to analyze content area assessment results, identify student gaps and strengths in order to grow students (in all subgroups) to a new level of performance.
What does this mean?
Curriculum is the core of the education system. Without a strong, consistent curriculum, Liberty cannot give its students the tools they need to succeed.
That is why ensuring curriculum is aligned with New York State standards and that that curriculum is consistent across classes and grade levels is so important. District officials also must regularly review and analyze the plans and adjust if needed.
What is LCSD doing?
Over the past few years, the district has instituted and/or expanded several curricular programs that offer consistency through the elementary and middle school years, including the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt math and reading curriculum and the Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES Social Studies and Science 21 programs.
The Woz ED curriculum has been expanded to help Liberty students enhance the 21st-century skills they will need now and in the future. That curriculum will also expand into the high school once the Innovation Lab is completed.
At the high school level, Liberty has expanded college-level course offerings to include Syracuse University Project Advance classes. These are the same courses offered at Syracuse University, taught by our teachers, that will offer transferable college credit.
The district is working diligently on making sure curriculum maps are being updated, completed, filed and followed. Mastery standards per grade level and course are also being established. These steps allow educators to clearly set expectations for students, and students will know what they must accomplish. Administrators also use all available resources, including Star Renaissance testing and state assessments, to analyze the effectiveness of the curriculum and make adjustments as needed.
“An effective, consistent, responsive curriculum that meets the needs of all of our students is vital to the success of our district,” LCSD Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said. “We are moving in the right direction, with student performance improving, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish in the future.”
For more information, email questions@libertyk12.org.
This is the second in a series of stories that focus on different aspects of LCSD’s strategic plan and what it means for the Redhawk students, staff, families and community.
LCSD working with PhotonFi to install LiFi technology in select classrooms
Liberty Central School District has partnered with PhotonFi to install LiFi, or Light Fidelity, wireless connectivity initially in two classrooms, one each in the middle school and high school.
When the technology is installed, expected to be this fall, we will be the first district in the region to adopt this innovative technology.
LiFi technology uses invisible light to transmit data, offering a fast, more secure and reliable network. This installation will provide the faculty with the tools they need to keep their students thriving in today’s increasingly digital world, while ensuring a safe learning environment.
“At Liberty Central School District, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible tools for success,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said. “Our collaboration with PhotonFi allows us to stay at the forefront of technology while maintaining the safety and security of our students as a top priority.”
PhotonFi Inc. is an industry leader in LiFi technology, dedicated to transforming the way institutions deliver connectivity.
“I want to thank Pat Killian, our director of technology, for researching this technology and being the driving force behind bringing it to Liberty,” Sullivan said.
“As the digital landscape continues to evolve, we remain committed to ensuring our students are equipped with the resources and technology needed to succeed in the 21st century,” Sullivan added.
Once installed, the district will watch the performance and evaluate. The technology has the possibility of being an alternative to running new Ethernet to keep up with the category changes of the cables, Killian said.
Those with questions may email questions@libertyk12.org.
LES puts healthy eating at forefront
Liberty Elementary has put nutrition high on its list of priorities this year.
The Empowering a Healthier Generation Wellness Committee at LES is working hard to make the cafeteria and classrooms spaces where students will enjoy eating healthy foods.
On Sept. 26, LES students learned about nutrition and health choices thanks to Nutrition Mission Assemblies with Beth & Scott. The Bierkos taught students the importance of drinking water instead of sugary beverages to quench thirst, the importance of getting adequate rest, 60 minutes of daily exercise, and the importance of putting healthy foods into their bodies.
LES encourages students to use the Fresh Fruit & Vegetable snack carts (provided free, much like breakfast and lunch here at LES) instead of eating items such as cookies and chips for snacks. Students are also encouraged to use the salad bar at lunch time and to sign out the blender bike for healthier birthday celebrations.
All of these messages connect with Leader in Me Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw – Balance is Best.
This year, LES is setting a goal to eat 1,000 servings of fruits and vegetables a month. This will be tracked on a new bulletin board in the cafeteria. There are also brand new light up menu boards in the cafeteria where the daily lunch menu is posted and new signage to encourage healthy eating.
Students will be acting as leaders as they work together to track servings of fruits and vegetables consumed at lunch time.
Girls Varsity Soccer players mentor younger team
The Girls Varsity Soccer team took the Girls Modified Soccer Team under their wing on Tuesday, Sept. 24, and mentored them on controlling the ball, turning with the ball, and learning a few new tricks to beat their opponents.
“The Varsity Girls Soccer team understands the importance of helping the future generations of girls who will make Liberty even greater,” Varsity Coach Roothland Medina said. “Nothing more powerful than having student to student learning. “
He added the varsity players also got a chance to fine tune their skills to deliver clear and explicit instruction, something he called a “win-win situation.”
LMS students featured at EverGreen event
Five Liberty Middle School students were featured earlier this week at “An Evening With EverGreen.”
The students are part of the LMS Girls Empowerment Group, led by Adrienne Jensen and Carmen Martinez of EverGreen Meadow Services.
The students—Helen Munoz Barragan, Asia Hurley, Tahjleyah Miller, Jazmia Padilla and Isabella Pujols—performed a song they co-wrote based on thoughts, feelings and expressions after their group sessions. The song was created with the help of Beth and Scott Bierko through the STEAM Fund.
“I really liked being in the empowerment group with really kind people like Ms. Adrienne and Ms. Carmen,” Helen said. “Creating a song that other people enjoyed hearing made me feel really good.”
The partnership between LMS and EverGreen was spotlighted at the event, held Sept. 23 at Arnold House in Livingston Manor.
“It was such an inspirational evening to hear Stacey (Millman, EverGreen founder and president), and other speakers share their personal stories and meaning behind the work,” said LMS Principal Heather Cheh, who attended the event along with Assistant Principal Katlyn Rusin. “We are so proud of Helen, Asia, Tahjleyah, Jazmia and Isabella for all the growth they’ve made over the past few years, and the collaboration with Adrienne and Carmen.”
EverGreen has become an important partner of LMS over the past two years LMS School Counselor. Michelle Behrman has done a “tremendous job” collaborating with EverGreen on attending the LMS Back to School Nights and Open Houses to share information with families, Cheh said. In alignment with the district’s MTSS pillar of the five-year strategic plan, EverGreen is continuing its Girls Empowerment Groups and the organization has met with students during lunches and hosted activities for all students.
“Intervening with girls in their middle school years offers the best opportunity to change their lives,” Cheh said. “By addressing social and emotional concerns early and providing necessary support, EverGreen Meadow plays a crucial role in nurturing a healthy and resilient community.”
Strategic plan centered on district’s mission, vision, beliefs
Liberty Central School District is now in the third year of its five-year strategic plan. The district is consistently evaluating its work and is making progress. The district’s mission, vision and beliefs are at the heart of the plan.
To review:
- The mission of the Liberty Central School District is to empower each student to contribute and thrive in a diverse community by pursuing their potential.
- The district’s vision is “cultivating trust and courage to be innovative and to persevere.”
- LCSD believes the mission and vision represent our core values and dedication to remain innovative, forward thinking and focused on all students. To that end, it believes in:
- Committing to fiscal responsibility.
- Providing physical and emotional safety for all.
- Partnering with educators, families and community for all students’ success.
- Delivering a robust educational program PreK-12.
- Fostering a sense of belonging.
- Ensuring all students have the necessary resources to be successful.
What does all this mean?
It means the district recognizes the important role it has in preparing its students for the world beyond the LCSD’s walls. The district must do all it can to give them the tools, knowledge and confidence to be their own person and make a difference in a world that is growing and diversifying while at the same time getting smaller through technology.
The board, administration, faculty and staff strive to give their students a safe place to learn and be innovative, while not being afraid to fail forward (learning from their mistakes and continuing to make progress).
The district does this while keeping in mind and embracing the realities of our community’s financial, social and cultural differences.
“We work to ensure every child who enters the halls of each of Liberty’s schools has the opportunity to not just get by but to thrive within our walls and beyond, making Liberty a great place to learn,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said.
For more information, email questions@libertyk12.org.
This is the first in a series of messages going out this year that will focus on different aspects of the strategic plan and what it means for LCSD students, staff, families and community.
MHSSC to honor LMS aide/safety duty staffer
Liberty Middle School Aide/Safety Duty staff member Cindy Mercado will be honored later this fall as one the recipients of the Mid-Hudson School Study Council’s Support Staff Award for Excellence in Education.
Mercado was recognized for her positive attitude, professionalism and dedication to making Liberty Middle School a safe and welcoming place to learn.
“What sets Cindy apart is her genuine connection with the students,” LMS Principal Heather Cheh said in her nomination letter. “She has a unique ability to engage with them in a way that is both nurturing and authoritative, earning their respect and trust.”
She has been named a LMS Staff Standout several times. She often goes above and beyond her duties, helping special events and assisting colleagues, her nominators said.
“Her collaborative spirit and proactive approach make her an exceptional team player,” Cheh said, “and her contributions significantly enhance our school’s operations.”
Her ability to de-escalate was noted by LMS Assistant Principal Kaitlyn Rusin, as was her assistance in translation for non-English speaking families.
She also embodies what it means to be a Liberty Redhawk, in line with the culture pillar of the district’s strategic plan.
“I’m proud to be a parent in the Liberty community, but also an employee of the district. I take pride in coming to work every morning and greeting the students with a smile,” Mercado said. “I genuinely show up to work to make a difference in the lives of the students and also keep them safe when they walk through the Middle School doors. I will continue to nurture the school culture and am proud to say I definitely have Liberty Pride.”
The MHSSC awards for administration, pupil personnel services and support staff services will be presented Oct. 16 at The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown. The school board service and community service awards will be presented in the spring
Liberty teacher, police chief to be honored by SCSBA
A longtime Liberty Elementary School teacher and the Village of Liberty police chief will be among those honored by the Sullivan County School Boards Association Annual Dinner and Meeting next month.
Jennifer Eisenberg will be honored as an Outstanding Educator, and Police Chief Steven D’Agata will be honored as an Outstanding Friend to Education.
LES teacher Jennifer Eisenberg
A teacher at LES for 25 years, Eisenberg has educated a range of learners, from students with a variety of learning needs to the highest performing students.
“There is no student Jen Eisenberg cannot reach and teach,” Principal Robert England said in his nominating letter.
“I never entered the teaching profession looking for accolades or recognition, but, when I opened the letter I was immediately humbled and felt an immense sense of pride,” Eisenberg said.
Eisenberg accepts all challenges. She adapts her methods as needed and holds high expectations for her students, ensuring they exceed their expectations, the nomination read.
For the past 10 years, Eisenberg has been the math department facilitator, an instructional coach and a leader in the school and districtwide. She has helped the district work toward its strategic plan goal of ensuring curriculum, instruction and assessments are aligned vertically and horizontally.
It was a childhood dream to become an educator, Eisenberg said. She credited the mentors and support team in her earlier years of teaching for her success and she looks forward to sharing her knowledge and expertise with the next generation of teachers, including her daughter, who is now a teacher at LES
“(Eisenberg’s) legacy to her family and community as an educator and a human being is imprinted on her students, her colleagues and anyone who has the good fortune to work with her,” England said in the nomination.
LPD Chief Steven D’Agata
D’Agata’s dedication, innovation and community spirit were among the qualities highlighted by Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan in the nomination letter.
“I’m deeply honored and humbled to receive this award, but any recognition truly belongs to the men and women of the Liberty Police Department,” D’Agata said. “Their tireless work and dedication are the foundation of everything we achieve.”
D’Agata’s forward-thinking approach and proactive measures have enhanced the safety and well-being of students, staff and the broader community. They have become benchmarks for other districts, Sullivan wrote.
D’Agata has helped build relationships between the community, the district and the police department, by visiting schools, participating in community events and having open dialogue with students and families. This aligns with the culture pillar of the district’s strategic plan,
“Together, we’ve built something special for this community, and I’m proud to be a part of it,” D’Agata said.
Sullivan also praised D’Agata’s leadership in ensuring seamless collaboration and communication, crucial in times of crisis and for the ongoing safety.
“He has fostered a culture of mutual respect and understanding, creating a supportive environment where students feel safe and valued,” Sullivan wrote. “Chief D’Agata has established a presence that is both reassuring and inspiring.”
Each year, the SCSBA presents Outstanding Educator Awards and Outstanding Friend to Education Awards based on nominations from districts across the county during the organization’s annual meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, at The Villa Roma in Callicoon.
LCSD faculty, staff return to school
It may still be two days until students return, but Liberty Central School District faculty and staff had their first day of the 2024-25 school year on Tuesday. The year kicked off with the traditional Opening Day assembly, this year held in the high school gymnasium rather than the auditorium because of work underway on the stage.
“These first two days of school for our faculty and staff are a vital time to ensure we are all on the same page and working together to make Liberty a great place to learn,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said.
These two conference days help Liberty administration introduce or reintroduce and reinforce the mission, vision and beliefs of the district, inline with the district’s five-year strategic plan. It also allows time for faculty and staff to complete required trainings and to make final preparations before students return.
Following a brief welcome and remarks by Sullivan and various school union leaders, new administrators, faculty and staff were introduced.
Sullivan and building leaders also recognized staff who were celebrating milestone years of service, with special recognition given to two Liberty staff members who each have been with LCSD for 33 years — custodian Marilyn Doland and ICT first-grade teacher Karen Gorr.
The strategic plan was next on the agenda. Sullivan reviewed the plan, progress that has been made in the first two years, and where the district is heading in year three. He also briefly reviewed the annual District Comprehensive Improvement Plan.
The important topic of student mental health was next on the agenda, with behavioral specialist Sheila Wormuth presenting. She highlighted the importance of making a difference in students’ lives, from a small thing such as offering a smile to the big ones, such as truly listening and understanding when they are speaking.