Category: District News
Liberty students take home 11 awards at county art show
Liberty Central School District students won several awards at last week’s Sullivan County PK-12 Art Show at the Events Gallery at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Liberty students took four of the five possible Artist Choice Awards in Photography. The Artist Choice Awards are selected by professionals. Leonel Malaga Ventura earned an award for black and white photography, and Jill Baumander, Kaitlyn Bodolosky and Maria Quintanilla Bonilla each won for color photography.
In Sculpture, Studio Art student Roz Schauerhamer took an Artist Choice award.
In Ceramics, Brittany Cardenas won two Artist Choice awards and Brook Bull took a Student Choice award.
In Painting, Studio Art student Madelynn Stewart received an Artist Choice award
In Mixed Media, Aulanie Garcia Velez took a Student Choice award.
In Drawing, Giovanni Flores Leon earned an Artist Choice Award.
The show kicked off with a high school student opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 11, and opened to the public with a reception from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, April 12. The show continued from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14.
Student artwork from media categories of ceramics and Glass, Digital Art Design, Black and White Drawing, Color Drawing, Mixed Media, Painting, Black and White Photography, Color Photography, Film and Animation, and Sculpture were on display, with about 125 total pieces from Liberty students across the district.
Sports schedule, and results, for the week of April 15-21, 2024
Our athletes will be in action in baseball, softball, tennis, golf and track and field this week.
Here are the schedule and results, if available. Livestream links are included where available.
Monday, April 15
3:30 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. Port Jervis at Lynx at Riverbend
4 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Fallsburg at Liberty High School
4:30 p.m.: JV Baseball vs. Onteora at Onteora High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Chester/Seward at Liberty High School
Result: Chester/Seward 25, Liberty 0
Chester/Seward pounded out 14 hits and used a strong pitching performance by Ayla Chalulsan, as well as shoddy Redhawks defense, to defeat Liberty 25-0 in 5 innings. Chalulsan also hit a grand slam and drove in 7 to lead the Hambletonian offense. Megan Schmidt and Angie Wheeler each had a hit for the Redhawks who drop to 2-1 on the season.
Tuesday, April 16
3:15 p.m.: Girls Varsity Golf vs. Ellenville at Shawangunk Country Club
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. Fallsburg at Sullivan County Golf and Country Club.
4:15 p.m.: Modified Softball vs. Fallsburg at Liberty Elementary School
Wednesday, April 17
4 p.m.: JV Softball vs. S.S. Seward Institute at Rock Sports Park
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs Cornwall Central at Monticello High School.
4 p.m.: Boys and Girls Varsity Track & Field vs. Multiple Schools at Liberty High School.
Thursday, April 18
3:45 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Livingston Manor at Livingston Manor High School.
Result: Liberty 24, Livingston Manor 2. Liberty used some excellent at bats and good base running to defeat Livingston Manor 24-2 in a game played at Livingston Manor. Angie Wheeler had four hits, one RBI andtwo runs scored to lead the Redhawk offense. Quinn Allen and Breanna Mangan, who was called up from the JV for the game, each chipped in two hits. Nevaeh Davis walked four times, had three stolen bases and scored four runs. Ayaliyah Williams scored three times as well. In the circle, Angie pitched five innings while giving up just one earned run and four hits while striking out eight. The Varsity improves to 3-1.
6 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Warwick Valley School District vs. Monticello/Liberty at Monticello High School
Friday, April 19
4 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Chester Academy at The Rock Sports Park.
4 p.m.: JV Baseball vs. Chester Academy at Maple Avenue School (Chester)
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Goshen at Goshen High School
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Sullivan West Central at Sullivan West – Jeffersonville
Result: Sullivan West 15, Liberty 3 A 10-run second inning by Sullivan West ultimately doomed the Varsity as the Bulldogs went on to defeat the Redhawks 15-3. Angie Wheeler and Quinn Allen both had doubles and Mya Huebsch had her first Varsity hit in the loss. Nevaeh Davis, Megan Schmidt, Aaliyah Williams, Aubrey Botsford and Olivia Dworestky also had hits for Liberty. The Varsity’s record falls to 3-2.
4:30 p.m.: JV Softball vs. Sullivan West Central at Sullivan West – Lake Huntington
Saturday, April 20
11 a.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Middletown at Middletown High School Faller Field Complex.
Sunday, April 21
No events scheduled.
The schedule is subject to change. Check the Liberty schedule on the Section 9 website for the latest.
Emergency Service Youth Academy planned for July
Sullivan County Public Safety and the Sullivan County Youth Bureau will host a weeklong Emergency Services Youth Academy this summer.
Students age 14 to 16 are invited to an introduction to the various tools and techniques used in the field. Local police, emergency medical services and fire professionals will lead students in several activities including a tours of the fire training tower and emergency vehicles, JAWS Jenga, CPR and first aid certification, and a team-building search and rescue.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 22-26 at the Sullivan County Emergency Services Training Center at 615 Old White Lake Turnpike in Swan Lake.
For more information, call 845-807-0509.
LCSD plans budget information sessions
Liberty Central School District will offer the public four opportunities to hear more about the school budget proposal that will go before the voters on May 21.
- The first event “Dinner and a BudgetShow” will take place Friday, April 19. Liberty Central School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan and Assistant Superintendent for Business Laurene McKenna will offer a presentation on the budget proposal from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. as pizza is served in the High School Media Center. Originally the Liberty Performing Arts production of “Night at the Wax Museum” was to follow in the high school auditorium, but that event has been canceled.
- On Friday, April 26, there will be a budget talk from 9 to 11 a.m. at the New Munson Diner at 12 Lake St. Sullivan will go over details of the budget and will answer any questions the public may have.
- On Monday, May 6, Sullivan and McKenna will present the budget at the Town of Liberty Board meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center at 119 N. Main St.
- The final event will be the budget hearing at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, in the High School auditorium.
More information about the budget will also be available on the budget page on the district website.
LCSD honors three with Excellence in Service Awards
Three more Liberty Central School District staff members were honored during the April 9 Board of Education meeting.
Recognized with Excellence in Service Awards were high school social worker Gina Castelonia, high school cleaner Mary Chanov and elementary teacher Jennifer Eisenberg.
Gina Castelonia
Castelonia was recognized for her dedication to helping students and staff and working to create student engagement projects, especially the Genius Hour Day held in March.
“Gina has worked hard the past few months in preparation for Genius Hour Day,” one nominator wrote. “The event was so much fun and a huge success among students and staff. She is a true leader in our building.”
Another nomination showed appreciation for Castelonia and the Lighthouse team for the event.
“(Genius Hour) took a tremendous amount of organization, teamwork and resilience. Gina stayed positive, was able to get buy-in from staff members to make this first Genius Hour a fun experience for both students and staff.”
Castelonia’s work throughout the year is vital to student success, a third nomination said.
“Ms.Castelonia goes above and beyond for students and staff. She offers compassion, a safe space, multiple resources and guidance,” the nomination read. “I speak for the majority of students and staff that would agree she exudes passion in helping others. She is instrumental in student engagement in numerous projects like Lighthouse, Comfort Closet and Genius Hour. LHS is very fortunate to have an enthusiastic and caring social worker like Ms. Castelonia.”
Mary Chanov
Chanov’s cheery personality, dedication and hard work were noted by her nominator.
“Ms. Mary works tirelessly around our building and always has a smile upon her face when I come into the school each morning,” the nomination read. “She is dedicated to our students, who also love her, and teaches them to take pride in our school by reinforcing that they pick up their spaces when lunch is done. She hauls, lifts, cleans, assembles, disassembles — you name. Mary is fearless and strong — a woman warrior!”
Jennifer Eisenberg
Eisenberg’s solution-oriented personality, leadership and helpful attitude were factors in her nomination.
“Jen is a solution driven person. Before even coming to anyone with the problem, she always seems to have a readily made solution to the problem,” a nomination read. “She thinks from all angles of problems to collaborate with colleagues.”
Eisenberg’s leadership and team-focused approach is valuable to the elementary school, according to her nominators.
“Her natural leadership skills have shown in her work as a teacher, facilitator and team member on our report card committees, and any other committee she joins,” a nomination read. “She brings knowledge, data, and experience to support her solutions. Above all else she always goes above and beyond to provide the best education to students.”
She also steps in wherever needed.
“Recently, we found it difficult to staff the building with several people out sick. We needed to have AIS cover classrooms,” the nomination read. “When I called Jen to ask for help, her response was, ‘sure, what can I do to pitch in?’” After being thanked, “she said, “We are a team. We will do whatever we need to help each other out and make it through the day,” the nomination continued. “Jen is an asset to our building and we are grateful for her every day.”
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.
Sports schedule, and results, for the week of April 8-14, 2024
Our athletes will be in action in baseball, softball, tennis and track and field this week.
Here are the schedule and results, if available. Livestream links are included where available.
Monday, April 8
No events scheduled.
Tuesday, April 9
3 p.m.: Boys Varsity Golf vs. James I. O’Neill at West Point Golf Course
4 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Monticello at Liberty High School
Result: Liberty 7, Monticello 3. Angie Wheeler struck out 10 while giving up just three hits leading the Redhawks to a 7-3 victory over Monticello. Angie was also hot at the plate as she went 2-3, with two runs scored. Megan Schmidt had a double, RBI and one run scored, and Arianna Wilson singled while driving in two runners. Quinn Allen chipped in a single and had an RBI and one run scored. Aaliyah Williams also went 1-3 with two runs scored.
4 p.m.: JV Softball vs. Monticello at Monticello High School
4 p.m.: JV Baseball vs. Monticello at Monticello High School
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Port Jervis at Port Jervis High School
Wednesday, April 10
4 p.m.: Varsity Softball vs. Fallsburg at Liberty High School
Result: Liberty 16, Fallsburg 1. Angie Wheeler threw a no-hitter while striking out 10 as Liberty downed Fallsburg 16 to 1. The Redhawks offense was hot as they pounded out 14 hits. Aaliyah Williams led the way going 2-2 with a triple, walk 2 RBI and 3 runs scored. Arianna Wilson went 2-3 with 2 RBI and 3 runs scored as well. Quinn Allen and Angie Wheeler both had two hits while scoring 3 times. Nevaeh Davis and Aubrey Botsford also had two hits each for Liberty.
4:30 p.m.: Varsity Baseball vs. Port Jervis at Port Jervis High School
4:30 p.m.: Boys and Girls Varsity Track & Field vs. Goshen at Goshen High School
Thursday, April 11
4 p.m.: Boys and Girls Modified Track & Field vs. Monticello at Monticello High School
4 p.m.: Boys Varsity Tennis vs. Washingtonville at Washington Middle School
Friday, April 12
All events postponed.
Saturday, April 13
10 a.m.: Boys and Girls Varsity Invitational vs. Multiple Schools at Monticello High School.
Sunday, April 14
No events scheduled.
The schedule is subject to change. Check the Liberty schedule on the Section 9 website for the latest.
LES kindergarten registration open
Registration is now open for kindergarten at Liberty Elementary School.
To be registered, children must be 5 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2024. Students that are in the LES pre-k program do not need to register.
Parents or guardians must provide a copy of parent/guardian’s photo ID; custody papers, if applicable; proof of residency, such as a utility bill or rental lease; and the child’s birth certificate, immunization records and a copy of recent physical exam, which must include all school physical exam requirements. Parents and guardians are encouraged to check with their child’s doctor for details.
To register, email haustin@libertyk12.org or call 845-292-5400, ext. 2331.
Liberty library to host programs for students
Liberty Public Library will offer two events for students next month.
On Wednesday, April 17, students in Grades 5-12 are invited to the library, at 189 N. Main St., for the next Teen Zone event. Students will have the opportunity to make ink art creations after school. Snacks will be served.
On Tuesday, April 23, Elementary students are invited to Lego Club from 2:45 to 4 p.m., where students can build Lego creations. The Legos will be provided by the library. Parents and guardians are asked to stay with students during the free program.
For more information about these programs, call 845-292-6070 or visit www.libertypubliclibrary.org.
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. Students enrolled in the Hanofee Park Summer Camp can be bussed from LCSD’s enrichment program.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Liberty announces 2024 Wall of Fame honorees
The Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce its two honorees for the 2024 Wall of Fame: Maurice Gerry and Kurt F. Scheibe.
Maurice Gerry
Maurice Gerry, a member of the Class of 1949, embodies a legacy of love for his hometown. Celebrated during his school years with titles such as “Best Dressed,” “Funniest” and “Most Entertaining,” Gerry’s charismatic spirit has endured through the years.
His roots in the community sprouted in a one-room schoolhouse on Ferndale Loomis Road. He recently paid homage to his first teacher, Mrs. Manion, by dedicating a plaque to be displayed on the schoolhouse wall once restored.
After high school, Gerry entered the Navy and later resettled in San Francisco, working with influential figures such as Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk. Actively involved in Diane Feinstein’s mayoral campaign, Gerry’s efforts to raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic earned him the honor of representing Alaska in a Washington, D.C., parade for the cause.
Upon returning to Liberty to care for aging parents, Gerry immersed himself in local politics, the arts and preservation. The visionary behind the Ms. Sullivan County Beauty Pageant, he championed diversity and inclusion, ensuring financial barriers did not hinder participation. Serving as town councilman for two decades, affectionately known as the “Tree Hugger,” Gerry dedicated himself to maintaining Liberty’s beauty and integrity.
At the age of 91, he assumed the role of interim councilman, a testament to his enduring commitment. Gerry actively supports humanitarian efforts locally and internationally, holding seats at O & M Museum, Liberty Arts Museum, Time and Again Museum and the Shandelee Music Festival.
At 93, he remains an inspiration, weaving the threads of community, history and compassion together.
Kurt F. Scheibe
Scheibe, an esteemed community member and 1962 graduate of Liberty High School, has devoted his life to selfless service. Retired as a Liberty postman for 35 years, his commitment extended beyond mail delivery. Serving as a Little League coach, he sought donations and sponsors, ensuring young athletes had uniforms and a pitching machine.
Collaborating with neighboring town coaches, Scheibe orchestrated a summer of sports, fostering enjoyment and the development of athletic skills and sportsmanship in the players. Among his notable achievements is the transformation of the White Sulphur ballfield from a swampland to what has become an integral part of the White Sulphur Springs Fire Department park.
Scheibe’s volunteer efforts extend to meticulous groundskeeping, not only at White Sulphur but also in assisting other communities such as Grahamsville in developing their sports fields. Transitioning from coaching to officiating, he uses his time and sports knowledge to referee youth games and fundraisers.
Beyond his youth-focused endeavors, he serves as the treasurer for the WSSFD, and is a member of the Liberty Elks Lodge.
His unwavering dedication and multifaceted contributions have left an indelible mark on Liberty and neighboring communities, embodying the true spirit of community service.
The Wall of Fame
The Wall of Fame was established in 2011 by the Board of Education to honor extraordinary alumni. Nominees are judged on exceptional accomplishments and significant contributions within their career, community or personal life. The two honorees will be inducted during the Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame ceremony in June. Planning for the invitation-only event is underway. Former inductees’ information can be found on the district’s Wall of Fame webpage.