Back | District HOME | Search | Directions | Monticello A to Z |

2011-2012 School Year

West African Performers Entertain and Engage Monticello Students

The rhythm of the drum beat was so powerful it did not take much to get the roomful of high school and middle school students to their feet dancing and singing. Led by world-renowned musician Bernard Woma and the Saakumu Dance Troupe, Monticello students were treated to an authentic West African musical experience that was enlightening, exciting and engaging.

During the recent workshop, Mr. Woma and his Sounds of Africa band played drums and rhythmic instruments, showcased original dance techniques and taught the students some traditional African dance moves and song lyrics. As an added delight, Mr. Woma played his Dagara xylophone, which is a hand-carved wooden instrument with dried gourd resonators and vibrating, spider web-covered sound holes.

Prior to the performance, he explained that the Dagara is known in West Africa for “mesmerizing the listener, healing the spirit, and bringing happiness and joy when the vibrations connect with the human body.” Judging from the smiles on the students’ faces, they were definitely connecting to the sounds and experience on many levels.

“Singing and dancing is very important in the African culture,” said Mr. Woma, who is from Ghana. “In my country, it is expected that if you can walk – you can dance, and if you can talk – you can sing.”

CLICK HERE to view the Photo Gallery from this event.

CLICK HERE to view a Video Clip from this event.

For more information, visit www.bernardwoma.com or www.saakumu.com.

2nd Annual Culture and Diversity Celebration Brings School and Community Together in Song 

Teachers, staff, students, administrators and community members gathered together at the high school on April 3 to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the Monticello School District - and celebrate they did!

The hundreds of visitors were greeted by students from the Monticello High School Finance Academy and their instructor Wendy Levinson. Guests received a celebration program and were guided to view the professional-style art exhibit arranged by Culture & Diversity committee members and Monticello art teachers Amy Garrett and Brenda Sywalski. During the Gallery Walk segment, attendees were serenaded by the Three Amigos on Guitar as they ogled the quality fine artworks in the newly unveiled high school Fishbowl Gallery and as they visited the informational booths set up by some of the school clubs. One of the tables was manned by students from the Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender-Straight (LGBTS) Alliance who were proud to be included in an event that celebrates all types of diversity, and an initiative that promotes tolerance and respect for others - regardless of their differences. Many in the crowd wore the rainbow lapel ribbons handed out by the LGBTS representatives as a show of solidarity.

With musical performances by the Cooke School Second-Graders, the Monticello Grades 5-12 Choral Group and Monticello High School Chamber Singers, a poetry reading by Robert J. Kaiser Middle School teacher Cherise Barasch and her students Sara Jane Sorensen and Alec Fernandez, a folk song sing-a-long with local musicians Alan Sorensen and Tony Penn, and a jazzed-out rendition of "When The Saints Go Marching In," by the Monticello High School Saxophone Quartet, the two-hour event seemed to fly by. As an added treat, a talented group of high school students from England who calls themselves the London Chorus endeared the crowd with a 20-minute set of show tunes and ballads. To top off the performance, one of the young English performers shared an acoustic version of an original song slated for her upcoming debut CD. Board of Education member June Havas-Lombardi, who was instrumental in connecting with the London group, was presented with a banner from their school as a thank-you for hosting the young vocalists.

Before the excitement of the night could end, guests were treated to a sampling of foods from around the world prepared by Home & Careers students and their teacher Pam Sussman, along with cafeteria manager Debra Donleavy and some of her food service staff members.

Foods included fresh-made Jamaican meat pies, Polish latkes, Italian pasta with garlic and oil, French crepes and Irish potato pancakes. After the mini feast, it is safe to say, no one left hungry!

In addition to the festivities, local, state and national proclamations and citations were presented to Monticello Superintendent of Schools Daniel A. Teplesky and Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning Dr. Kenneth Newman. Dr. Newman is the visionary and driving force behind the culture and diversity initiative, which began last year. Political guests included Sullivan County Legislators Ira Steingart and Alan Sorensen, NY State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (who also represented U.S. Congressman Maurice Hinchey), and Linda Cellini who represented both her husband Town of Thompson Supervisor Tony Cellini and NY State Senator John Bonacic.

"This event is the reflection of the hard work, dedication and commitment of the Culture & Diversity committee members, students and staff. It is the culmination of other events and classroom learning that take place in our schools throughout the year," said Dr. Newman. "The music, food, family and friends helped to create an evening that illustrated the types of relationships and experiences we aspire to foster as this initiative continues to grow."

CLICK HERE to view the complete Culture and Diversity Celebration Photo Gallery.

For more information about the Culture & Diversity celebration initiative, please call Dr. Newman at 845-794-7700, ext. 70501.

EVENT FLYER     EVENT PROGRAM

Spanish students present projects about Latin America

Students in Felisa Sheskin's Spanish II classes presented their projects on Latin American countries. For example, students designed trips and maps to Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba as if they were tour guides for a class trip t. They also fried plantains Caribbean style.

In Spanish III, students culminated a unit on travel to Europe, including Spain, by making games about a trip full of surprises and follies that the Spanish II students played.  PHOTO GALLERY

NY State Celebrates Women's History Month with the "Legacy of New York State Women." MORE

Artistic display depicts the empowerment of women through the ages

If you happen to be passing by Amy Garrett's art room at the Cooke Elementary School, check out her display which pays homage to the progress women have made in their wartime roles.

The bulletin board images show a comparison between 1942's Rosie the Riveter and 2012's USMC Female Engagement Team. 

This example shows our young girls that not only have women "come a long way," but that there are a multitude of new opportunities available to them in today's world.

March is Women's History Month - Women's Education - Women's Empowerment

Excerpt and resources from http://womenshistorymonth.gov

About Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week." Throughout the next five years, Congress continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as "Women’s History Week."

In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month." Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” MORE

Women's History Month Resources for Teachers

Women's History Month Resources for Teachers

Visit the following websites for more resources and information about Women's History Month

Library of Congress

National Endowment for the Humanities

National Gallery of Art

National Park Service

Smithsonian Institution

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

National Archives and Records Administration

Using Lessons from the Holocaust to Teach Empathy

When teaching assistant Robin Cruz was growing up, she remembers the stories a dear family member used to tell her. She remembers the sadness and pain of those stories as if they were her own. That is how Ms. Cruz first identified with the devastation she would come to know as the Holocaust.

Years later while working at the Robert J. Kaiser Middle School, a passing comment from an indifferent colleague would touch that memory and spur Ms. Cruz to action. She knew the only way to enlighten people to the reality and brutality of the Holocaust was to find someone who had lived through it to tell his story. That is how she met Werner Reich.

“What kind of person will you be?” asked the unassuming man with the kind eyes and gentle smile - his calm, steady voice never revealing the horror and pain of his past. It seemed unlikely that these young minds sitting in the large auditorium would relate to what this man had lived through more than sixty years ago. Yet, there was intensity in the underlying emotion that filled the room. As his presentation began and the brutal images depicting the devastation of the Holocaust flashed onto the large white screen, a stark silence came over the crowd. FULL STORY

February is Black History Month

Seventh grade art students study Harlem Renaissance painter

In honor of Black History Month, the seventh grade art classes studied Harlem Renaissance painter Jacob Lawrence.

While addressing the theme of community and environment, students looked at Lawrence's artwork which utilizes bright colors and simplified shapes to create vivid imagery of the life and culture of Harlem in the early 20th century.

Students created their original artwork from cut paper to replicate the style of Jacob Lawrence's paintings.

The students' work will be on display at the RJK and MHS Annual Art Show, scheduled for June 7, 6-8 p.m. in the Monticello High School gym.

Original works of art by seventh-graders Ashley Campbell, Alexis Bivins, Victoria Groom, Taylor Spargo, Lillie Carnell and Dominince Brownridge. Click on the thumbnails to view larger photos. CLICK HERE to view more works of art from RJK Middle School students.

Harlem Renaissance Painter Jacob Lawrence

The following are excerpts from Wikipedia and Artchive

"Jacob Lawrence (1917-2000) was an American painter; he was married to fellow artist Gwendolyn Knight. Lawrence referred to his style as "dynamic cubism", though by his own account the primary influence was not so much French art as the shapes and colors of Harlem. Lawrence is among the best-known 20th century African American painters, a distinction shared with Romare Bearden. Lawrence was only in his twenties when his "Migration Series" made him nationally famous. A part of this series was featured in a 1941 issue of Fortune magazine. The series depicted the epic Great Migration of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North. The collection has been split into two parts for public viewing." MORE 

"Born in Atlantic City, Jacob spent part of his childhood in Pennsylvania and then, after his parents split up in 1924, he went with his mother and siblings to New York, settling in Harlem. When years later he told an interviewer that 'I am the black community,' he was neither boasting nor kidding. He had none of the alienation from Harlem that was felt by some other black artists of the 1930s..." Learn about the life and career of this Harlem Renaissance artist. 

Black History Month – Background and Resources

February 1, 2012 - CNN - "In the early 20th century, there were almost no mentions of the contributions of African-Americans in U.S. history textbooks. That is what inspired historian and educator Dr. Carter G. Woodson to start “Negro History Week” in 1926. Woodson choose the month of February for this focus because it was the birth month of two leaders who fought to end slavery: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass." MORE

 - CNN Student News Black History Month: Learning Activities
 - Library of Congress: African American History Month
 - Smithsonian Education: Black History Month
 - National Park Service: African American History
 - National Endowment for the Humanities: Black History Month
 - National Archives: Black History Resources
 - U.S. Census Bureau: Black History Month 2012
 - Association for the Study of African American Life and History
 - Morehouse College: Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection

Scholastic.com helps teachers explore Black History Month in the classroom (2/1/12) MORE

Changing the scope of Black History Month (2/1/12 - Gannett) MORE

Celebrate Black History Month (NY Times Resource) MORE

How to create a classroom culture free of racism

1/12/12 - Edutopia - "There are several steps educators can take to ensure they are creating an anti-racist environment in the classroom, says Dr. Danielle Moss Lee, president and CEO of the Harlem Educational Activities Fund. Educators first should find ways to acknowledge race in the classroom, and seek out groups that are supporting minority students in the community, she writes. Other ideas include recognizing differences that exist within racial groups, reading about how to teach students of other races and maintaining self-awareness about potential biases." MORE

Resources to begin conversations about diversity

The following information is from the annual Multicultural Conference at SUNY New Paltz and was distributed by Stir Fry Seminars, a consulting firm that provides professional development materials for diversity training.

- Nine ways to begin a diversity conversation with teachers and staff (PDF)
- Ten Ways to begin a diversity conversation in the classroom (PDF)
- Twenty-one ways to stop a conversation about diversity (PDF)
- When someone is offended by your comments (PDF)

For more information about Stir Fry Seminars, visit www.stirfryseminars.com  and www.diversitytrainingfilms.com  

Other resource: Four Conditions Necessary for Culturally Responsive Teaching (PDF)

What can schools do to close the achievement gap for ELL students?

Reform for English Language Learners (1/19/12 - Education Week)

How Do You Teach the Civil Rights Movement? (1/6/12 - NY Times) MORE

Students Honor the Principles of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Fifth graders from the Emma C. Chase Elementary School participated in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Fine Arts and Essay Display in Albany.

Students submitted original artwork illustrating Dr. King’s Six Principles and Steps of Nonviolence. The artwork will be displayed until the end of February 2012 at the Empire State Plaza in the South Concourse.

This program is to commemorate the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to celebrate his birthday, and to continue promote his principles and teachings with regards to nonviolence. The Empire State Plaza is open to the public seven days a week, 7 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Photo: Allison Monroy, Ashley Mancroni, Cheyenne Guadalope, Reginald Mingot, Sara Grodin, Noah Rogers and Ryan Grodin.

Sixth-graders present folk songs and folk tales

Sixth grade students recently presented "Folk Songs with Tony Penn" as part of their unit study on oral traditions. The students practiced the songs as part of a choral reading lesson and retold the songs in their own words as part of their retelling project. The songs were presented to an audience with musical accompaniment by singer/songwriter Tony Penn.

In addition, as part of the multicultural unit, sixth-graders in Cherise Barasch's class learned about other cultures (as well as their own) while studying and performing folk tales from around the world. Students discovered that they could use the traditional stories and tales as a way to explore mysteries from the past.

Celebrating the Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.

"The time is always right to do what is right."

The following information is from The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change website.

During the less than 13 years of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s leadership of the modern American Civil Rights Movement, from December, 1955 until April 4, 1968, African Americans achieved more genuine progress toward racial equality than the previous 350 years had produced. Dr. King is widely regarded as America’s pre-eminent advocate of nonviolence and one of the greatest nonviolent leaders in world history.

Drawing inspiration from both his Christian faith and the peaceful teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. King led a nonviolent movement in the late 1950’s and ‘60s to achieve legal equality for African Americans in the United States. While others were advocating for freedom by “any means necessary,” including violence, Martin Luther King, Jr. used the power of words and acts of nonviolent resistance, such as protests and grassroots organizing, to achieve seemingly impossible goals. He went on to lead similar campaigns against poverty and international conflict, always maintaining fidelity to his principles that men and women everywhere, regardless of color or creed, are equal members of the human family.

Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, Nobel Peace Prize lecture and “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” are among the most revered orations and writings in the English language. CLICK HERE for more information at The MLK Center website.

CLICK HERE for a catalog of historic speeches and interviews by Martin Luther King, Jr.

"The Wrath of a Great Leader: How Martin Luther King, Jr. wrestled with anger and what you can learn from his example." READ

Students to display artwork in Dr. King display

Cooke Elementary School students Caitlynn Carrera and Annette Brown joined in the Monticello Central School District’s initiative to have a voice in an art show celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The 2012 Fine Art and Essay Display focuses on Dr. King’s Six Principles of Non-Violence.

The display will be shown in early January on the Concourse of the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)

 Fighting Hate, Teaching Tolerance, Seeking Justice

The following information is from the SPLC website.

"The Southern Poverty Law Center is a nonprofit civil rights organization dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry, and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of society. Founded by civil rights lawyers Morris Dees and Joseph Levin Jr. in 1971, the SPLC is internationally known for tracking and exposing the activities of hate groups. Our innovative Teaching Tolerance program produces and distributes – free of charge – documentary films, books, lesson plans and other materials that promote tolerance and respect in our nation’s schools. We are based in Montgomery, Ala., the birthplace of the modern civil rights movement." For more information, visit www.splcenter.org.

SPLC provides resources to schools and organizations. This includes the following suggestions "What You Can Do" to promote tolerance and fight hate:

1. Speak up when you hear slurs. Let people know that biased speech is unacceptable. Apathy is as dangerous as hate.

2. Cross social boundaries. Seek out opportunities to interact with people who are different from you. Eat lunch with someone new.

3. Complain to media outlets when they promote stereotypes. Look inside yourself for hidden biases. Take a test at www.hiddenbias.org.

4. Encourage your local police force to identify bias-motivated criminal acts as hate crimes.

Renewed Commitment to Culture & Diversity Initiative

Celebrating Culture and Diversity in the Monticello Central School District

The culture and diversity initiative began in Monticello Schools in 2010, spearheaded by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Newman. It is a district-wide effort to incorporate positive cultural references into everyday classroom learning and includes the celebration of the many diverse cultures that comprise the school community. The initiative also focuses on teaching tolerance and respect.

Focusing on Social Justice

It goes way beyond the professional responsibility of educators having equal expectations for all students regardless of skin color, cultural background or religion. It is our ethical obligation to ensure that the core values of the Monticello Central School District are upheld, that every student is treated with dignity and respect, and that there is equal access to opportunities and resources. This is the true recipe for success. This is our journey - our work-in-progress.

If we are to flourish, we must continue to embrace and celebrate who we are as a culturally diverse school community. Building relationships based on trust are worth our concerted efforts. Above all, we must never lose sight of what is most precious - the future of our children.

Students learn about Native American artifacts

Tara Komatz, a Monticello graduate and teacher, recently visited each classroom at the Chase Elementary School to share Native American artifacts with the students. Komatz presented a large variety of artifacts that included dream catchers, spears, snowshoes and a tomahawk that dates back 500 years. Students were thrilled to hold the objects and examine the details and workmanship of early Native Americans. Komatz explained she is keeping a tradition alive that was started by her grandfather, Joseph Komatz. He started the collection of artifacts and would visit the classrooms of his grandchildren. The student and faculty of Chase thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to hear the stories and hold history in their hands. MORE

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

The George L. Cooke Elementary School art room, under the guidance and expertise of teacher Amy Garrett, is a place of multicultural learning. It is a colorful voyage of creativity and a showplace for bold and beautiful images. In her art lessons, Ms. Garrett celebrates the work of artists from diverse backgrounds as a way to open the hearts and minds of her pupils and ignite their curiosity and wonder.

Mexican-American Cartoonist

During October, students in grades K-5 celebrated and explored the life and artwork of the renowned and prolific Hispanic artist, Gustavo Arriola. Senor Arriola was a pioneer in the world of cartooning. He broke new ground in the 1940s when he rose to fame for creating the first boldly ethnic cartoon character named “Gordo.” During his career, he also contributed his talents to the well-known cartoon series “Tom and Jerry.”

As part of learning about Hispanic heritage, students discussed how Mr. Arriola’s success, being Mexican-American, helped other young artists from diverse cultural backgrounds break into the field of cartooning. Students also had the opportunity to draw their own cartoons and write an original dialogue for their characters, similar to those in professional comic strips.

Photos: Cooke Elementary School art teacher Amy Garrett is surrounded by enthusiastic young artists Desiree Edwards, Jenelle Leon-Saravia, Zachery Ocasio and Michael Lands. The students, who are from Yesenia Kreeger’s fifth grade class, expressed how much they enjoyed the cultural art history lesson about the life and work of cartoonist Gustavo Arriola. As part of the lesson, they had the opportunity to create their own comic strip characters and stories.

Budding young artist Jadin Williams displays his comic strip creation.

Literature as Cultural Learning

To help celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Every Person Influences Children (EPIC) representative Jane Sorensen visited Christine Cavello’s first grade class as a guest reader.

Ms. Sorensen read to the youngsters from the book, “Celebrating Cinco de Mayo: Fiesta Time” by Sandi Hill and Claude Martinot. She engaged the students in multicultural learning by telling the story both in Spanish and English. She then had the class repeat certain words and phrases out loud in Spanish. The children were thrilled to learn the meaning of the Mexican holiday and enjoyed having a guest in their classroom.

Photo: First-graders in Christine Cavello’s class learned some words in Spanish while EPIC Parent Coordinator Jane Sorensen taught a lesson about the Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo. Also pictured is teacher aide Virginia Mejia.

Learning a second language, learning about other cultures, making new friends

At the Chase and Rutherford Elementary Schools, students in grades K-5 are studying a second language. As part of the International Baccalaureate (IB), classroom learning is being enriched with the knowledge of how to read, write and speak Spanish. In addition, students are engaged in lessons that highlight the beauty and richness of the various Spanish-speaking cultures from around the world.

Students in Katlyn LaGrutta’s fifth grade class embraced a recent lesson that not only helped them practice their enunciation of Spanish words, but also introduced them to holidays from a variety of Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico, Cuba and Puerto Rico.

Language instructor, Elisa Martinez, whose parents are from Spain, uses literature, music, dance, art, food, history and costumes to inspire students as she introduces them to new cultural experiences.

“In this day and age, it is actually a detriment for children not to learn a second language,” said Ms. Martinez, who although she was born in the U.S., spoke Spanish before English. “As our world becomes more global, it becomes more important.”

Apparently, this class of fifth-graders understands that importance as well. When asked how learning Spanish will affect them personally, they replied with the following:

• It could open new doors for them in business and give them more communication skills.

• It will help them communicate with new students and others who can only speak Spanish.

• It will help them communicate better if they travel to, or work in, other countries.

Some students shared tips about how they practice their Spanish comprehension when not in school. These included watching Spanish TV stations, playing Nintendo DS in Spanish and speaking to family members at home. About 25 percent of the class said they know someone outside of school who speaks Spanish.

Parental Support

As for having parental support for this type of learning, Ms. Martinez expressed that she gets an immense amount of positive feedback all the time. One parent, Elizabeth Evans, a former high school chemistry teacher, shared how her experience growing up in South Africa proved just how important it is to be multilingual.

“On any given day I had to speak three languages just to communicate with the people I encountered,” said Ms. Evans, whose two young daughters attend Chase. “There is significant research that connects learning a second language at a young age to an increase in a child’s overall cognitive flexibility and creativity.”

Research-Based Learning

Some of the research noted by Ms. Evans supports the theory that learning a second or third language can actually help youngsters learn their primary language. In addition, as the world becomes more and more globalized, a second language can provide our children with greater opportunities for future success and more skills to bring to the ever-growing competitiveness of the world marketplace.

With all the positive reasons to learn about other languages and cultures, there is also the fun side of it – this year for the elementary school students, that may include learning how to dance the flamenco!

Photo: Chase fifth-grader Colleen Michaels touches a skull figurine – a customary symbol in the “Day of the Dead” holiday. Spanish teacher Elisa Martinez included the interactive discussion in the day’s Spanish lesson after reading from the book, “I Remember Grandpa: A Story about the Day of the Dead,” en Espanol, “Yo recuerdo a Abuelito: Un cuento del Día de Muertos.”

Gustavo “Gus” Arriola

Gustavo Arriola (7/17/17–2/2/08) was a Mexican-American comic strip artist and animator primarily known for the comic strip Gordo (1941-1985). His work introduced many Americans to Mexican culture as it chronicled the life of Mexican bean farmer Perfecto Salazar “Gordo” Lopez (Gordo approximately translates to English as “Fatso”). Gus Arriola was born in Florence, Arizona, the youngest of nine children. His mother died when he was a baby and he was raised by a relative in a Spanish-speaking household. He learned English by reading the Sunday comics. His family moved to Los Angeles, California when he was 8-years-old. He first studied art formally in high school. MORE at Wikipedia.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday held on May 5. It is celebrated in the U.S. and in Mexico, primarily in the state of Puebla, where the holiday is called El Dia de la Batalla de Puebla. The date is observed in the U.S. as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, and to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War. In the state of Puebla, May 5 marks the Mexican army’s victory over French forces in 1862. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. That holiday is celebrated on September 16. MORE at Wikipedia.

Visual Art as Critical Thinking

”Visual arts are an excellent discipline to build and utilize critical thinking skills. I don’t think we often give credit to the deep conceptual and interpretational thinking that goes into the creation of a piece of art, and this is often because art is treated as something separate from the core content areas. School does not need to be this way.” MORE at Edutopia

Every Person Influences Children (EPIC) in the Monticello School District

The EPIC organization provides a variety of free resources to families throughout the Monticello School District, including parenting workshops, an early learning book club, and a family literacy program. Jane Sorensen serves as the EPIC Parent Coordinator for the three district elementary schools. She can be reached at 794-8830 or jsorensen@k12mcsd.net. Robin LaFountain serves as the EPIC Parent Coordinator for RJK Middle School and Monticello High School. She can be reached at 796-3058, ext. 20098 or epic@k12mcsd.net. For more information about EPIC, visit the national website at www.epicforchildren.org. 

Flamenco

Flamenco is a type of music and dance with its foundation in *Andalusian music and dance. Gypsies played an important part in the evolution of the genre. The cante (singing), toque (guitar playing), dance and palmas (hand claps) are the principal facets of flamenco. In recent years, flamenco has become popular all over the world and is taught in many countries. In Japan, flamenco is so trendy, there are more academies than in Spain. *Andalusian is an autonomous community that is recognized as a nationality of Spain. MORE at Wikipedia

Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and around the world. The holiday focuses on the gathering of family and friends to pray for and remember loved ones who have died. In Mexico, it is a national holiday. The celebration takes place on November 1 and 2 and includes building private altars to honor the departed. The origins of the modern holiday trace to an Aztec festival dating back hundreds of years. The holiday has spread from Mexico to places such as Brazil, Europe, Asia and Africa. MORE at Wikipedia

Civil Rights Officials Issue More Flexible Rules on Use of Race in School Assignments; Admissions

December 2, 2011 - Education Week

Federal civil rights officials today said that school districts and colleges and universities may legally consider race when making decisions about school assignments, admissions and other programs that are designed to increase diversity and reduce racial isolation. The U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Education jointly released the new, more flexible guidelines that are meant to clear up confusion on how and when race can be considered in the wake of three earlier U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The two sets of guidance documents—one for K-12 school districts and the other for colleges and universities—cancel out those that were issued by the Education Department in August 2008 during the Bush administration. READ

Culture and Diversity Initiative Honored with Prestigious Award

November 3, 2011 - On behalf of the Monticello Central School District and Capital Region BOCES, communications specialist Renata Gittler was named as a finalist Empire Award winner in the non-profit campaign category by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Capital Region Chapter. Ms. Gittler received the honorable designation for her work on the “Celebrating Culture and Diversity in the Monticello Central School District” initiative. She was presented with the award by PRSA President Penny Vavura at a ceremony in Albany on October 27.

“At the heart of this social justice initiative is the hard work of many dedicated professionals,” said Ms. Gittler. “Hopefully, the widespread recognition of this project will raise the consciousness of others and help inspire more people to join in the celebration of our beautifully diverse region, and world.” MORE

Photo: From right, Renata Gittler with her PRSA Empire Award, Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning Dr. Kenneth Newman, district clerk Mary Ryan Buchholz at the Empire Awards in Albany.

Monticello Schools Honored with National Award for its Culture and Diversity Celebration Initiative

Communications specialist Renata Gittler on behalf of the Monticello Central School District was recently honored with a 2011 Golden Achievement Award, one of the top honors bestowed by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA), for her work on the “Celebrating Culture and Diversity in the Monticello Central School District” initiative. This award acknowledges successful public relations campaigns that demonstrate outstanding achievement and leadership in school communication. MORE

CLICK HERE to view the "Celebrating Culture and Diversity" digital photo array

This photo and audio compilation highlights some of the ways staff and students recognize and honor the contributions and beauty of the cultures that comprise this diverse school district. It also shows how students learn to respect and embrace the differences of others.

Archive of Culture & Diversity Initiative - 2010-2011 School Year

1st Annual Celebration of Culture and Diversity Brings School and Community Together

More than 200 students, staff and community members filled the seats of the Monticello High School auditorium to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the many cultures that comprise the school district.

Event organizer Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning Kenneth Newman welcomed the guests to the April 14 celebration which featured an art exhibit, musical and theatrical performances, Native American storytelling, a poetry reading, and an international food tasting. (This included food from France, Asia, Italy, Europe, Mexico, Germany, Caribbean and U.S.)

The school/community event was the culmination of a year-long district-wide initiative to highlight and celebrate the contributions of diverse people. This goes beyond the national celebrations, such as Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month, and features classroom lessons embedded with positive messages of tolerance and respect for others. This celebration of culture is also expressed through the creation of poems, bulletin board displays and artwork.

"I think it is great that the kids in our schools can be proud of their cultures," said Noche Salas, a Monticello High School sophomore (pictured right). "It is wonderful that we are given the opportunity to express our individuality."

Robert J. Kaiser Middle School technology students, with the help of their teachers, created a virtual world filled with cultural images, music, videos and world history. While touring the virtual world, participants linked to the culture and diversity section of the district website.

      

      

      

 

  

Sullivan County Legislator Alan Sorensen was on hand to present the district with a Certificate of Special Recognition from the county, a Citation from the NY State Assembly and a Proclamation from the Office of Senator John J. Bonacic.   

         

CLICK HERE to view the Celebration Program.

CLICK HERE for the celebration invitation flyer in English. CLICK HERE for the celebration invitation flyer in Spanish.

International Festival of Food and Crafts at KLR

On April 11, students from several classes - grades K-5 - packed the Rutherford cafeteria to celebrate spring with an International Festival of Food and colorful crafts.

Students proudly wore vests they had decorated with facts from many different countries that they had been studying. Ireland, Italy, Germany, Kenya and China were among the countries represented. Each vest bore the flag of the country, the money used and the word "hello" or "welcome" in the language spoken there, as well as many other interesting facts. Everyone enjoyed foods and desserts from a great diversity of countries.

Each student got to take home an edible centerpiece that looked like a bird's nest for the arrival of Spring. The many teachers, students, parents, custodial staff, teaching assistants and teacher aides all worked together to help make our International Spring Fling Food Festival such a success.

Women's History Month: March 2011 - from the U.S. Census Bureau

National Women's History Month dates back to March 8, 1857, when women from New York City factories staged a protest over working conditions. International Women's Day was first observed in 1909, but it wasn't until 1981 that Congress established National Women's History Week to be commemorated the second week of March.

In 1987, Congress expanded the week to a month. Every year since, Congress has passed a resolution for Women's History Month, and the President has issued a proclamation.

For facts and figures about women in sports, motherhood, education, business and more, visit the U.S. Census Bureau website by CLICKING HERE.

Kindergarten kids get colorful about diversity

Students in each of Cooke Elementary School’s kindergarten classes colored paper crayons with every color imaginable to show how beautiful diversity is.

      

Best friends look beyond the surface

Cooke Elementary School students Aliyna Toro and Emilie Mulhern met in Debi Levine’s fourth grade class earlier this year.

The two girls didn’t know each other and had a hard time at first getting along. Ms. Levine encouraged the girls to get to know each other and now they are best friends.

“Emilie is really funny and has a good personality,” said Aliyna. “I don’t care what people look like, it is how they act that is important.”

As for Emilie, she echoed that sentiment and said, “I pick my friends by how they treat people and if they respect others.”

Cooke Elementary School Celebrates Black History Month

The faculty, staff and students at Cooke Elementary School celebrated the many contributions of African American men and women during the month-long Black History celebration during February.

Each teacher included a diverse selection of lessons in English Language Arts (ELA) and social studies. The school library hosted a display that featured books with African American themes and by African American authors.

The school’s entranceway featured a bulletin board display about the famous civil rights activist Rosa Parks while the hallways were replete with artwork, poems and narrative literary works celebrating our rich history.

          

From the autobiography of Rosa Parks

"People always say that I didn't give up my seat because I was tired, but that isn't true. I was not tired physically, or no more tired than I usually was at the end of a working day. I was not old, although some people have an image of me as being old then. I was forty-two. No, the only tired I was, was tired of giving in. I knew someone had to take the first step and I made up my mind not to move. Our mistreatment was just not right, and I was tired of it."

"I would like to be known as a person who is concerned about freedom and equality and justice and prosperity for all people."

"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear."

"Memories of our lives, of our works and our deeds will continue in others."

Reading to celebrate Black History Month By Allen Pierleoni

February is Black History Month, a time for all Americans to remember the struggles, accomplishments and contributions of African-Americans. If credit is due to any one person for establishing the "federally recognized celebration," it goes to Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950), who founded Negro History Week in 1926. MORE

Black History Month event helps strengthen the school/community connection

As part of the Monticello Central School District celebration of culture and diversity, the Kenneth L. Rutherford Elementary School hosted a variety of speakers from the Community Progressive Response (CPR) organization. The program focused on Black History Month and was designed to introduce the diverse student population to the many positive African-American role models from the local community.

Village of Monticello Post Master Deborah Mack organized the event and opened the program with encouraging words aimed at inspiring the young attendees.

“Each of you can be whatever you want to be,” said Ms. Mack. “Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You are all special. It is not about the color of your skin or your hair or your eyes, it is about acceptance, tolerance and respect for others.”

The array of speakers was well received by the students as they asked and answered questions about a variety of subjects. First Baptist Church of Monticello Musical Director Dr. Donna Singer talked about great musical pioneers such as Louis Armstrong and Josephine Baker while Sullivan County GED case manager Earl Gomez spoke about green energy and how it related to the wind turbine on the school lawn.

Social worker Joshua Jones asked the students who Martin Luther King, Jr. was. The youngsters seemed very savvy about this historical figure when they provided responses such as, “he made a speech about freedom,” “he was a great leader,” and “he had a dream that white people and black people could be friends.”

Sullivan County Community College student Gabriella Curtis shared her experience at the inauguration of President Obama while Order of the Eastern Star Leader Belinda Williams explained how her organization helps the community through scholarships and summer camp.

Rutherford bus driver OJ Washington stopped by to remind the students how important good behavior is when riding on the school bus.

Correctional officer Thomas Mack, Jr. talked about his experience working in the juvenile justice system and stressed to the children that it is essential for them to follow the rules, listen to their teachers and parents, and treat each other with kindness.

“It is important for you to be nice to each other and to help people whenever possible,” said Mr. Mack. “Don’t bully other kids and don’t be afraid to say you’re sorry.”

Photo 1: Joshua Jones talks with KLR students, from left, Gabriela Hernandez, Mayrangelic Leon-Hernandez, Payge Clark and Hanna Oestrich. Also pictured is teacher aide Connie Penn. Photo 2: KLR second-grader Bryce Walker was very excited when he was chosen by green energy aficionado Earl Gomez to answer the question, “What is one form of green energy?” Bryce answered, “Wind!” Photo 3: OJ Washington and Deborah Mack.

Photos: From left, Belinda Williams, Mary McNeil, Gabriella Curtis, Thomas Mack, Jr. and Dr. Donna Singer 

CLICK HERE for this story as posted by the Catskill Chronicle.

Famous inspirational words from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Speech Excerpt

"Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends. And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today!"

Famous words from former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln

"A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved - I do not expect the house to fall - but I do expect it will cease to be divided."

 

Sounds of Africa - Celebrating Culture through Music

As part of the celebration of Black History Month and as a way to share the richness and beauty expressed musically by diverse cultures, the Monticello Performing Arts Booster Club presented a performance by Master Drummer Bernard Woma and the Saakumu Dance Troupe  during February in the Eugene D. Nesin Theatre for the Performing Arts at the St. John Street Education Center in Monticello.

The award winning group is one of the leading traditional/contemporary dance and music groups in Ghana, West Africa. Their music and dance range from spiritual, ceremonial and recreational genres to contemporary African dance forms. Their music and dance is joyful, expressive and highly participatory.

Dance and Drumming Workshops give Students a Firsthand Cultural Experience

Master Drummer Bernard Woma and the Saakumu Dance Troupe worked with students from the performing art classes at Monticello High School and RJK Middle School - leading them in tradition dance and drumming techniques.

The workshops were designed to enrich learning and immerse students firsthand in a cultural experience.

CLICK HERE to view the original press release and to read more about this group of talented musicians and performers.

For more information about Bernard Woma, visit www.dagaramusic.com.

Celebrating Culture and Diversity in the Monticello School District

2010-2011

As a way to implement the Board of Education goal to recognize and celebrate culture and diversity within the Monticello School District, Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning Kenneth Newman, Sr. formed and oversees the Monticello Celebrates Culture and Diversity Committee.

This district-wide initiative is to ensure that all the schools are highlighting the beauty of the many diverse cultures that comprise the school community. It is also focused on addressing and dispelling negative stereotypes and exploring with students the rich history and contributions of people from all cultural backgrounds.

Although committee members work within each school to celebrate the months during the calendar year which focus on specific groups, such as Hispanic Heritage Month, Native American Heritage Month, Black History Month and Women’s History Month, this initiative goes far deeper than just scratching the surface by celebrating at specific times. The district is exploring how to recognize and celebrate culture and diversity on a regular basis and how it is built into the curriculum as a part of student learning. For example, how it is incorporated into creating poems, bulletin board displays, celebrations, artwork and classroom lessons. This will be a year-long project that will be documented on the district website as an ongoing work in progress.

Photo: Rutherford students Briana Luna and Brayan Morales work on their cultural appreciation projects in Marjorie Sweet’s ESL class. The assignment was part of the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month which connected the children’s own heritage to their classroom learning. Briana’s project was about her sixth birthday party which combined elements from her different cultural backgrounds. Brayan had to research Spanish food as his project and conduct a survey to find out what is everyone’s favorite dish.

As part of the Culture and Diversity Celebration initiative and as a way to help our young people understand and accept the similarities and differences of people from varied backgrounds, teachers use classroom literature that reflects culturally diverse authors, people and subjects.

 CLICK HERE for a list of the Elementary School Guided Reading Selections.

Origins Map links Rutherford students to 54 different countries and five continents

As a way to show students how people from diverse cultural backgrounds can have many different characteristics and still be friends, Kenneth L. Rutherford Elementary School International Baccalaureate (IB) Coach Claudia Cordisco organized students to create the Origins Map mural. The project was a collaboration of Rutherford personnel with students and teachers from Monticello High School’s art department who were contracted to paint the world map on a blank wall in the hallway outside of the elementary school’s library.

Once the map was completed, Rutherford students had the opportunity to research their heritages to identify the culture or mix of cultures of their families and ancestors. Each student, and some teachers, then posted a headshot on the map and connected the photo with a string to the country of their main nationality. This helped students visualize the vast variety of cultures of their schoolmates.

Second-grader Nikko Suarez, whose family is from Puerto Rico, never realized how many of his classmates had a similar background to his. He also never realized how many of his friends were from different places.

When Julio DelGatto found out what his full heritage was, the third-grader commented, “I like the fact that I am Greek, Italian and Native American!”

According to Ms. Cordisco, in addition to the origins project, the map is designed to be utilized for a variety of other purposes and class lessons, such as geography, animal habitats, weather and history.

The Origins Map project linked Rutherford students to five continents: North America, South America, Africa, Europe and Asia and the following 54 countries: Canada, United States (Native American), El Salvador, Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Trinidad, Barbados, Columbia, Guyana, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Algeria, Nigeria, Portugal, Ireland, Scotland, England, France, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Yugoslavia, Italy, Albania, Kosovo, Malta, Greece, Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Romania, Turkey, Pakistan, China, Philippines, India and Morocco.

Photos #1: IB Coach Claudia Cordisco with students, from right, Parth Patel (India), Nikko Suarez (Puerto Rico) and Renee Schreiber (El Salvador).

#2: Thanks to the map, first-grader Laurie Diaz learned exactly where in the world her country of origin is, the Dominican Republic.

#3: First-grader Aaliyah Alli points to her country of origin, Cuba.

#4: Monticello High School art teacher Jay Brooks worked with his students to ensure that their colorful creation was an accurate rendition of today’s world map.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Emma C. Chase Elementary School was designated an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School on December 7, 2009. This honor and achievement represents a culmination of years of hard work by the Chase administration, faculty, staff and students. Our Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12, focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer, both in the classroom and in the world outside.

CLICK HERE to view the IB created video: Education for A Better World: The IB Primary Years Programme

At Chase, we believe that knowledge is “actively built, not passively learned”. We offer an inquiry based curriculum that empowers students as they develop as knowledgeable, respectful, compassionate, and responsible world citizens and reflective life-long learners.

Our curriculum is collaboratively crafted by teams of our own teachers and our lessons are taught and thoughtfully revised to reflect best practices in education and to best meet the needs of our students. Curriculum, lessons, and learning activities are based on National and New York State Standards.

Our Motto: “ Be a better me … build a better world.”

Our Mission

Emma C. Chase Elementary School's Mission is to work collaboratively with parents and the world community to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and compassionate life long learners who will help to create a better and more peaceful world through inter-cultural understanding and respect for them selves and others.

CLICK HERE for the Chase Elementary School International Baccalaureate listing

CLICK HERE to view the Monticello Schools International Baccalaureate web section.

Students learn about the history of U. S. migration through Ellis Island project

The students at Emma C. Chase Elementary School recently completed a unit of inquiry called "Where We Are in Place and Time," in which they studied human migration. They focused on the reasons for migration, the history of immigration to the United States, and the effects of immigration.

Each student began with a study of their own cultural background and the history of migration in the United States over the past 300 years. Student research included interviews, examination of primary documents such as passports, ship manifests and journal entries, and studying literature, websites and textbooks.

Students gradually developed a deeper understanding of why people leave their homelands and migrate to a new country.

As a summative learning experience, students developed identities complete with era appropriate biographies and passports. Students also created suitcases to display their paperwork, maps and other prized possessions from their “homelands.” They “boarded ships” and set sail for the United States, landing at “Ellis Island."

Two fifth grade classrooms were transformed into Ellis Island, complete with checkpoints for luggage inspection, medical clearance, and character and employment interviews. Students who met the criteria finally swore an allegiance to their new country before embarking on their new lives.

Students study history and culture of folklore

The children at the Cooke Elementary School are studying Stories of the Oral Tradition. Students are reading, writing, dramatizing and telling tales from the past. They are studying the history and culture behind folklore. First grader students are preparing to present dramatic presentations of their favorite tales. The students voted on their favorite tale to present to the school; class votes were tallied and there was a tie! They then held a tie-breaking meeting to make the final decision, and now rehearsal begins!

Photo: Katleyn Sanders holds up the "final decisions."

Cooke student celebrate "Good Character"

The Hill Brothers Band performed as part of the kick-off of the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program for the 2010-11 school year. They put on a fun filled show emphasizing respect, responsibility and good character. The students and teachers sang and danced as they learned about following the PBIS values. This was a great way to celebrate the beginning of the school year. This event was sponsored by the Cooke/Rutherford PTA.

Students celebrate their diversity with learning and a feast

The first grade students of Sarah Galligan and Sara Kozachuk invited their families to school for a Heritage Feast. Students spent time learning about their cultures and heritages which they shared with each other.

They created flags that represented the various countries of their ancestors.

During this course of study, students reviewed maps, landmarks, language and land forms from an array of places around the globe. During the feast, everyone was open minded while trying new things. They were respectful of the cultures of others and embraced their differences.

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther supports LGBTS club members during "No Name Calling Week"

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Supporters (LGBTS ) a new club at the high school, recently helped raise awareness about bullying in our schools. "No Name Calling Week" was held from January 31 to February 4, sponsored by the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network. LGBTS club members held a bake sale and asked students to sign a pledge asking them not to bully; to intervene, if they are able to do so safely; and to support efforts to end bullying and name calling.

On the afternoon of February 3, the club had a surprise visitor - NY State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, who stopped by to show support and encourage the students to continue their efforts to bring awareness to these types of issues. Ms Gunther stated "No name calling is a no-brainer, we should all know better.” She also related how as a student in high school, she was also a victim of bullying. Ms. Gunther encouraged the students to make a plan to continue this effort.

Monticello High School Principal Arleene Siegel welcomed the assemblywoman and stated how this initiative is "a real start" to creating a more accepting culture and environment within the school by addressing the challenges of coexisting in a diverse environment. All parties agreed that one of the beautiful aspects of the Monticello Central School District is our diversity!

CLICK HERE for this story as featured by the Catskill Chronicle.

Students paint winning mural design “Puzzle Pieces of Diversity” in the 200 wing

Alissa Hermida, Amanda Jahn, Makayla Jahn and Jessica Stratton recently painted their winning design, "Puzzle Pieces of Diversity," in the high school's 200 wing.

The students competed against their classmates in John Maranzana's English 12 class to design a school mural for the wing. Stop by the high school's 200 wing to check out this work of art!

ELA students study Native American tribes

In honor of Native American heritage month in November, students in Cherise Barasch's ELA classes completed a unit of study on the Native American Tribes of the Americas.

The students used three primary sources to collect information on the history of their chosen tribe. They learned how to take notes in an organized fashion, access sources from the Internet and synthesize these notes into a presentation of their choosing. Students chose from presenting orally, structurally or in a written format (poetry, short story, song, or written report) and then presented the information to their classmates in an exchange of tribal information and history!

In all, 22 tribes were studied and the information was presented to all of the students. This allowed for each student to contribute his/her information to the study as a whole.

Second grade students give thanks to traditions

On November 22, second grade students at Cooke Elementary School learned about the tradition of sharing while enjoying a Thanksgiving feast. All students donated a food item, from the turkey to cranberries to pumpkin pie, which was was arranged buffet-style and served by parent volunteers. Most importantly, the students enjoyed each others company as much as the great food! Happy Thanksgiving!

"Caring" students celebrated at October assembly

October’s Celebration Assembly celebrated students that demonstrated the International Baccalaureate learner profile of “caring”. Students that are caring show empathy, compassion and respect toward the needs and feelings or others. They have a personal commitment to service and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. Congratulations to these “caring” students!

Photo: Diego Gonzalez, Heather Stasko, Morgan Mitchell, Acacia Williams, Robert Van Houten, Brianna Howard, Kaylynn Champagne, Hannah Kaplan, Steven Cammerino, Emily LaRuffa, Trinity McArdle, Kylie Caudy, Emily Campbell and Elise Heyman

Students embrace the challenge to treat others with kindness and compassion

October 2010With the challenge before them to be kinder to others, share a positive attitude and to celebrate life, more than 800 students from Monticello High School and Robert J. Kaiser Middle School pledged to work as student leaders and continue the work of Rachel Scott.

Rachel was the first student killed by the two gunmen in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. Her father has kept his daughter’s legacy of compassion for others alive by creating Rachel’s Challenge, which is an outreach program to students around the nation to be a part of “a chain reaction” of kindness.

Rachel’s Challenge was presented to students and the community in early October and included hard-hitting testimonials by the many people whose lives Rachel touched. Monticello students volunteered to create a Friends of Rachel (FOR) organization in the district as a way of instilling a more positive culture within the schools. Part of the focus of the new student groups will be to end bullying, welcome new students to school and implement community service projects to help others.

The program was sponsored by the RJK PTA and is supported by the EPIC Parent Center. For more information or to join one of the clubs, please contact Robin LaFountain at 796-3058, ext. 20098 or via e-mail at epic@k12mcsd.net. 

RJK students Veronica Bonar, Demi Dabbraccio and Demitra Bowen are committed to the idea of creating a friendlier school environment. The trio expressed that they were “deeply touched” by Rachel’s story and now want to make their school a “better place.”

Students outlined their hands as a pledge to reach out to others in kindness. A Rachel’s Challenge banner was signed with messages from students who wanted to share their experiences and memorialize the loved ones they have lost.

Rachel’s Challenge presenter Ken Scheible of Oakland, California was living in Denver, Colorado at the time of the Columbine tragedy. As a result of that experience, he was deeply moved to dedicate his life to educating and inspiring teenagers. He has since spoken to thousands of young people across the United States and Canada delivering a message of hope and empowerment.

Rachel's Challenge promotes kindness, compassion

Rachel’s Challenge took place on Monday, October 4, in the Monticello High School auditorium. This was a free, special presentation designed to inspire a positive school/community culture by identifying ways each of us can be a part of a “chain reaction of kindness and compassion."

Rachel's Challenge was created in honor of Rachel Joy Scott, the first person killed in the Columbine High School tragedy in April 1999. Ken Scheible of Oakland, California presented Rachel’s Challenge to faculty, staff, parents and community members. Scheible was living in Denver, Colorado at the time of the Columbine tragedy. As a result of that experience, he was deeply moved to dedicate his life to educating and inspiring teenagers. He has since spoken to thousands of young people across the United States and Canada delivering a message of hope and empowerment. He is excited and honored to now be sharing Rachel's message of compassion and kindness to thousands more.

New members welcome - Join the "Friends of Rachel"

The Friends of Rachel club was inspired by our school’s Rachel’s Challenge assembly in October. The members of Friends of Rachel want to make our school a positive environment by spreading kindness in order to make our school a little warmer. Members also plan on raising money for charities.

The Friends of Rachel club meets each Monday after school in room 221. New members are always welcome. Teamwork will keep Friends of Rachel going strong, with more members, we can stay inspired, and the heart of the group will expand. For more details/ information; talk to Mr. Cellini or Mae Bonnaci.

About Rachel's Challenge: Rachel's Challenge was created in honor of Rachel Joy Scott, the first person killed in the Columbine High School tragedy in April 1999. For more info, visit www.rachelschallenge.org or contact the EPIC Parent Center at 796-3058, ext. 20098 or via e-mail at epic@k12mcsd.net.

RJK Middle School SLE team conducts diversity survey

The RJK Middle School SLE team recently conducted a diversity survey. The survey questions asked about students' and parents' heritages. Once the information is compiled, it will be used to create a diversity map that represents the different countries of origin of the student population and their families. Future plans include creating a display of flags from each country/province represented. This is one of the ways the SLE plans to move forward toward creating a more supportive learning environment which includes celebrating diversity in the district schools.

Monticello Schools Supportive Learning Environment (SLE) Team working toward positive change in the district schools - CLICK HERE for the Monticello Schools SLE web section

Teachers use "Red" to teach tolerance and respect

In early October, teachers Sue Rodriguez and Jennifer DePaolo worked collaboratively with their classes on an activity about how to show others tolerance, respect and open-mindedness. Students had to approach a large human sized cut-out body, called Red. Each student had to say an insult to Red. Each time an insult was given, the student had to tear a piece off of Red. Students

 recognized how insults can hurt or tear a person apart. Students then had to give compliments to Red. Each time a compliment was given, a piece was taped back on. Students then had to come to terms with the fact that, although "Red" was put back together, Red had very visible scars.

September focused on tolerance and respect

Rutherford's International Baccalaureate (IB) Coach, Claudia Cordisco, visited a first grade class to talk about September's Attitudes of the Month: tolerance and respect. The students listened to and discussed a story about differences. Each child was able to point out how the characters in the book were different from one another.

With Ms. Cordisco's help, the children engaged in a fun hands-on activity that helped them see how words can either hurt or help someone. They learned how to show one another respect as well as how to be tolerant of their differences. By demonstrating open-mindedness the students will grow into respectful, tolerant community members.

Monticello High School student connects with the Native American culture of the Lakota

n the summer of 2009, Monticello High School 11th grade student Rachel Ehrman traveled to South Dakota for a month to live on a Lakota reservation. While there, she helped establish two day camps and helped reconstruct several buildings with other students in her travel group.

A principle part of Rachel’s summer was to immerse herself in Lakota culture and tradition. She explained that this was easier said than done. One example was that on the 4th of July, instead of the Lakotas throwing fireworks in the air they threw them at Rachel’s group while yelling “Get off of my land.”

Gradually, however, her group earned their trust. They were invited to participate in a sweat lodge and attend multiple pow wows. By the end of the summer, Rachel felt that she had formed an unbreakable bond with her new Lakota friends.

On Rachel’s plane ride home, she realized how much she had learned from the Lakota people and decided she wanted to share her experience with others. So when she returned to school she established a pen pal relationship between the students of Dupree Elementary School in South Dakota and the Kenneth L. Rutherford Elementary School in Monticello.

It took Rachel a few months to get her program started as she needed to obtain the appropriate permission in both Dupree and at KLR to move forward. After many phone calls, Rachel finally located two 3rd grade teachers who were willing to have their students participate in the project, Michelle Wall from South Dakota and Leanna Smith from KLR.

Rachel, a participant in the Monticello High School STAR (Student Teacher Assistant Resource) program, worked with Leanne Smith’s class helping them write their letters. After the students shared several letters, they were able to compare the similarities and differences between the two completely different cultures. Ms. Smith, Ms. Wall and Rachel plan to continue this pen pal program in the upcoming year.

Chase Elementary School Honored with International Baccalaureate Status

For three years, the staff and students at the Chase Elementary School worked tirelessly to adopt an internationally respected approach to teaching and learning that will prepare students for the challenges they will face during their educational experiences and in their future lives.

As of December 7, 2009 the school was officially authorized to teach the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. FULL STORY

Web invitation sent to promote Culture and Diversity initiative

February 22, 2011

To help district personnel spread the word about this culture and diversity web section, an invitation explaining the initiative, “Celebrating Culture and Diversity in the Monticello Central School District” and welcoming our internal and external stakeholders to visit this site was sent via e-mail and SNN. Printed copies of the invitation were also sent home with the elementary school students. CLICK HERE to view the web invitation flyer.

Other Resources

The Million Father March grew out of recognition of the power of male involvement in the education of Black students. A father who actively participates in the educational and social development of a child is invaluable and irreplaceable. A 2004 summary study by The Parent Institute showed that at schools where teachers reported high levels of outreach to parents, reading scores grew at a rate 50 percent higher, and math tests scores 40 percent higher, than in schools where teachers reported low levels of outreach. "The Black Star Project operates with a belief in the strength of parental and community involvement in education to eliminate the racial academic achievement gap." MORE

CLICK HERE for a Holiday Traditions website.