Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange and Sullivan Counties are offering a variety of virtual parenting workshops this fall. Parenting can be stressful, and tools and approaches are available to assist parents and caregivers to make things a bit easier.

The virtual approach allows parents to learn from the comfort of home and still gain valuable information in an interactive and welcoming setting. It also helps those that don’t have childcare or transportation, it can easily be accessed from their cellphone.

The following programs will be be offered:

Unpacking the Teen Years- Virtual

• Dates: Oct. 8, 22 and Nov. 5, 19
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Fee: $40 per family

During this positive and supportive approach to the teen years, we will discuss:

• Understand the changes in your teen
• Your role in parenting teens
• Ways to build connectivity with your teen
• Communication strategies and tools
• How to identify red flags for challenging behaviors

Discipline is NOT a Dirty Word – Virtual

• Dates: Thursdays, Oct. 2,16, 30, and Nov. 13
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Fee: $40 per family

This fun, interactive four session series is filled with resources about child development, parental coaching, and powerful parenting tools that support caregivers on their parenting journey. There will be ample time for questions and group discussions that support parental confidence and wellbeing.

Topics include:

• What is discipline?
• Why do kids misbehave?
• Understanding your parenting style
• Ways to co-regulate with your child
• Parental self-care
• Child and brain development 101
• Understanding the value of empathy and self-esteem
• Temperament
• Protective Factors framework
• Communication strategies
• How to build connection with your children
• 5 important techniques for your parenting tool box

Advance registration is necessary for attendance.  The program fee is $40 per family. If families are unable to pay the fee, they have the option to pay what they can or select solidarity to waive the fee. To register, visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County website at https://sullivancce.org/events. Those who register will receive the Zoom links to participate in the virtual series.

Contact Suzan Sussmann at 845-344-1234 or  sls536@cornell.edu with any questions.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County provides equal program and employment opportunities. The public can contact the office to request accommodations.

The Liberty Public Library is starting the new school year with afterschool opportunities for students.

On Sept. 17, students in grades 5-12 are invited to a Game Day, featuring board games, card games and more, starting at 3:15 p.m.  Students will also learn more about volunteer opportunities at the library to start earning hours they may need. Snacks will be provided.

For elementary students, the library will host Bookworm Clubs for elementary students in October and November.

The club will be offered Mondays, Oct. 20-Nov. 24, or Tuesdays, Oct. 21-Nov. 25 (no meeting on Nov. 11), for children in first and second grades. The club for third and fourth graders will be Wednesdays, Oct. 22-Nov. 19 or Thursdays, Oct. 23-Nov. 20.

They will be held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. afterschool. Library staff will pick children from Liberty Elementary to escort them to the library.

Participating children will read books, play games, have snacks, do crafts and more.

Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, by calling 845-292-6070. Those who call earlier will be asked to call back. Permission slips will be sent home with all children who are registered. Slips must be returned to the library or the child’s teacher indicating pickup preference. Children may be picked up at the library by 4 or they can be escorted to the LES Boys & Girls Club, if they are signed up.  Students in third and fourth grade also have the option to take the late bus home from the elementary school.

For more information, call 845-292-6070 or visit the library’s website. The library is at 189 N. Main St. in Liberty.

Two people who have had a positive impact on Liberty Central School District will be honored next month by the Sullivan County School Boards Association.

High school math teacher Edward Lare will be presented with an Outstanding Educator Award, and cleaner Mary Chanov will receive an Outstanding District Employee Award.

“These two individuals embody what it means to be a Liberty Redhawk, with dedication to making Liberty a great place to learn,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said.

Mr. Edward Lare

Mr. Lare has worked for Liberty for four years. He was nominated by High School Principal Stephen Matuszak for his “extraordinary commitment to excellence in education and his unwavering dedication to his students’ success.”

Mr. Matuszak also highlighted Mr. Lare’s teaching method that personalizes instruction, encourages students to take ownership of their learning and balances structure with creativity, “ensuring that each lesson is meaningful, relevant, and accessible to learners of all abilities.”

Mr. Lare embodies lifelong learning. He enrolled in the new Coding Course through Sienna College, which will allow him to integrate coding and technology into his curriculum. “This endeavor not only reflects his passion for professional growth but also his commitment to equipping students with critical 21st-century skills,” Mr. Matuszak wrote in his nomination letter. “Edward is preparing his students for future opportunities and challenges in an increasingly digital world.”

Mr. Lare’s influence can be found beyond the classroom, by supporting students through mentoring, extra-curricular involvement and by fostering a positive, inclusive school culture. “His approachable nature and genuine care for students create a safe and welcoming space where learners feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking academic risks,” Mr. Matuszak wrote. “Many students have shared how Edward’s encouragement and support have made a lasting impact on their lives.”

He also has a positive impact on his colleagues, regularly sharing innovative teaching strategies and actively participates in professional development opportunities.

“In summary, Mr. Edward Lare exemplifies the qualities that make an outstanding educator: passion, innovation, dedication, and a heartfelt commitment to student-centered learning,” Mr. Matuszak wrote.

Mr. Lare thanked his co-workers for their support over the past four years. “Receiving the SCSBA is truly an honor and is humbling considering the outstanding educators who have received this award in the past,” he said. “It has always been a privilege working at Liberty with all of the dedicated staff members, supportive administration, and an incredible mentor, who all continuously inspire me to be the best teacher that I can be.”

Ms. Mary Chanov

Ms. Chanov has been a staple at Liberty Central School District for 25 years, serving in various roles including as a substitute, a teacher aide, a cafeteria monitor and the last 10 as a cleaner.

“Ms. Chanov exemplifies the highest standards of dedication, professionalism and compassion, making her a truly invaluable asset to our school district,” Dr. Sullivan wrote in his nomination letter.

She has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of students, staff and the entire school community, going above and beyond the call of duty. She regularly volunteers to work on weekends and after hours, ensuring that students have full access to their extracurricular activities.

Ms. Chanov plays a crucial role in maintaining and securing Liberty school facilities. She takes great pride in ensuring the buildings are always in excellent condition and safe for everyone.

“On numerous occasions, I have personally witnessed her working diligently on Saturdays, shampooing carpets, tidying offices, and even nurturing the plants in my own workspace, ensuring they stay healthy and vibrant,” Dr. Sullivan wrote. “These small but thoughtful actions highlight her attention to detail and her genuine care for the environment in which we all work and learn.”

Ms. Chanov’s presence in common areas such as the cafeteria is an ongoing source of support and encouragement for students offering a kind word, a helping hand, or simply by creating a welcoming and safe atmosphere. “In this way, Ms. Chanov’s contributions extend far beyond her job description; she helps build a nurturing community where students feel valued, secure, and supported,” Dr. Sullivan wrote.

She also has had a positive impact on faculty and staff, assisting her colleagues through practical help, moral support, or simply by being a dependable and positive presence.

“Ms. Mary Chanov embodies the essence of an outstanding district employee,” Dr. Sullivan wrote. “Her dedication, compassion and tireless work ethic have a profound and lasting impact on our students, faculty, and the school environment as a whole.”

Liberty has also had an impact on Ms. Chanov, who will be retiring in January.

“During my career I’ve made so many friends and I cherish them. The learning I received from the students was priceless. It’s assisted me in helping other students throughout my career. I’ve learned to listen and appreciate the kids,” she said.  “It made me a better person and taught me how to help them.

“Receiving this award is an honor and a privilege,” she added. “I owe this award to the kids and to God for putting me in the best place to work.”

The awards will be presented at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, at the SCSBA annual awards dinner and meeting in the Beechwoods Clubhouse at the Villa Roma at 356 Villa Roma Road in Callicoon.

The next Board of Education meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, in the High School Media Center at 125 Buckley St. in Liberty. The Board anticipates to enter into executive session (not open to the public) immediately.  At 5:30 p.m. the board anticipates to end the executive session and suspend the continuation of the meeting until 6 p.m.  There will be a new teacher and newly tenured teacher reception at 5:30 p.m., also in the HS Media Center.

The regular portion of the meeting, open to the public, is expected to resume at 6 p.m.  The agenda will be available on Monday, Sept. 8, at Board Docs.

Dear Liberty families,

I look forward to seeing our students for the first day of school on Thursday, Sept. 4. For details on school building schedules, please visit the school websites: Liberty High School, Liberty Middle School and Liberty Elementary School. For general information, visit the district website.

A few reminders and updates before the school year begins:

The athletic field (football field/track area) is off limits to the public as construction continues.

There is also a portion of the ballfield on the elementary school that is still closed to the public as well. Please respect the barriers in place.

I am also happy to inform you that the culvert replacement at the elementary school is complete with access from North Main Street available. For specific pickup and drop off information, visit the elementary school website.

If you have any questions about the upcoming school year, please visit our website, review information provided at our community forum, contact your children’s school buildings or email questions@libertyk12.org.

Working together, I am sure we can make this school year the best one yet.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick Sullivan

Superintendent

Safety is a top priority for the Liberty Central School District. As school begins, the district wanted to remind its families of some of the safety procedures and terms. Families are asked to review the information available at  https://www.libertyk12.org/about-us/liberty-central-school-district-emergency-information-guide/.

Those with questions, may email questions@libertyk12.org.

This September, Liberty Public Library invites Liberty Central School District families to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month and discover how a single card can open the door to endless opportunities.

With a library card, you can do more than check out books. From free programs, computers, streaming media, and cultural events, today’s libraries connect communities to information, inspiration, and each other.

This year’s theme, “One Card, Endless Possibilities,” is a reminder that libraries are for everyone—no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you’re diving into a new hobby, searching for your next great read, borrowing a backpack, learning a new language, or helping your child succeed in school, it all starts with a library card.

At Liberty Public Library you’ll find:

• Ebooks, and e-audiobooks with our Libby app
• Streaming video with Kanopy, and Mango Languages for learning a new language.
• Prefer physical books and media? Try our convenient “RCLS Go app” to search for and request physical books, and DVDs, as well as books on CD—Or ask us to help in person!
• Bethel Woods Museum passes for free admission for up to 4 people
• Programs and events for all ages—from storytimes and book clubs, movies, yoga, Senior Coffee Club speakers, afterschool teen clubs, and much more.

Getting a library card is free, easy, and empowering. For students, it’s a key to academic success. For adults, it’s a gateway to lifelong learning. For everyone, it’s a smart way to stay connected to your community.

The public invited to the library throughout September for the following activities:

• Library Card Challenge, Sept. 1 – Oct. 17: Pick up a special Library Card Challenge Activity sheet. Complete any four of the fun activities and win a small prize (all ages).
• Library App installation help:  Need help setting up one of our apps, like Libby? Call 845-292-6070 or email lib@rcls.org to arrange an appointment for a one-hour help session.
• Elementary Game Day, 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6: Play classic board games at the library with your family and maybe make some new friends.
• Teen Games & Volunteer Sign-ups, 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17: Stop by afterschool to play games with your friends and learn about volunteer opportunities available at the library.

Stop by Liberty Public Library or visit http://www.libertypubliclibrary.org to sign up for a free card. Because with a Liberty Public Library card, the possibilities are truly endless.

Sullivan 180 will host its Empowering a Healthier Generation Celebration at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, in the Event Gallery at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

During the event, Sullivan 180 will present more than $145,000 in awards recognizing the success of local schools in making healthy, meaningful change.

There will also be a special tribute to Sullivan BOCES Superintendent and Sullivan 180 Board Member Dr. Robert Dufour. Music will be provided by John Zanger.

Empowering a Healthier Generation engages Sullivan County public school in creating a culture of health and wellness among students, staff, parents and their communities.

Schools are eligible for Sullivan 180 grants to support and implement initiatives that advance wellness goals. Healthier Generation advisors serve as liaisons and coordinators for the work in their school building. The Empowering a Healthier Generation Celebration will honor all of the schools that have participated.

The public is invited to attend the celebration to support and celebrate their school community.

Those who wish to attend are asked to RSVP online at bit.ly/2025EHGRSVP by Sept. 5.

Bethel Woods is at 200 Hurd Road in Bethel.