Category: District News
Board of Education approves winter sports
At a Feb. 1 special meeting, the Fort Plain Central School District Board of Education approved the offering of higher risk winter sports in accordance with state and local Department of Health and athletic league requirements and as long as certain health and safety conditions are met.
On Jan. 22, 2021, the Governor and New York State Department of Health (DOH) authorized schools to offer certain higher-risk winter sports effective Feb. 1, as permitted and authorized by local county health departments. DOH subsequently issued updated guidelines for such sports, and the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) and Section 2 issued revised “Return to Interscholastic Athletics [Guidelines] for the 2020-21 Season.”
[Note 3/9/2021: NYSPHSAA has updated their document.]
On Jan. 29, 2021, the Montgomery County Executive and Public Health Director announced that they had approved schools within the county to provide higher risk winter sports, subject to certain requirements.
Fort Plain Central School staff and leadership developed a plan to offer winter sports, including varsity girls and varsity boys basketball, junior varsity boys basketball and varsity cheerleading, in accordance with all applicable state DOH, county DOH, and league health and safety requirements, which will be implemented during all practices and games, and under the following conditions:
- Each parent/guardian must sign the district’s COVID-19 informed consent for athletic participation form;
- The County DOH approves the district’s plan containing the health and safety protocols in place to allow sports to safely occur;
- If, at any time, the high school hybrid learning model moves to remote-only learning, athletics, scrimmages, and practices will be temporarily suspended in their entirety and coaches shall not be required to engage in coaching responsibilities;
- No spectators will be allowed at any athletic contest – as stated by the Western Athletic Conference and Montgomery County; and,
- All practices and contests will occur in accordance with all guidelines issued by New York State, the County and NYSPHSAA/Section/League as such guidelines may be amended at any time.
District participation in the winter sports can be suspended if the Superintendent deems such action necessary. Contact the Superintendent’s office with any questions.
Resources:
NYSPHSAA: COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (8/22 note: documents no longer online)
NYSPHSAA Return to Interscholastic Athletics, January 2021
[Note 3/9/2021: NYSPHSAA has updated the above document.]
Fort Plain bids farewell to retirees
Fort Plain Central School bid farewell to three long-time employees who are retiring this week from decades of serving the district. Staff and students alike extended their congratulations and best wishes to John Fureno, Dawn Surnear and Philip Thibodeau.
John Fureno is retiring from teaching fifth grade math at Harry Hoag School. He has served Fort Plain for several decades as a general education teacher for multiple grades and as an athletic coach.
“John is a role model for us all, always smiling, always embracing the day with a positive, can-do attitude,” said Lauren Crisman, Harry Hoag principal. “In addition to teaching, John has been a valuable member of the FPCSD athletics department. He has served as a multi-season coach, investing in our young athletes by coaching the sports of golf, bowling and baseball.
“Colleagues and students alike regard John as one of the most kind, endearing and caring faculty members to ever walk the hallways of Harry Hoag Elementary School. He will be deeply missed by all.”
In bidding goodbye to a dedicated teacher, coach and colleague, Fort Plain wishes John all the best in his retirement.
Proud dad: John is at left in the photo below, taken at his son’s graduation from Fort Plain.
Dawn Surnear is retiring from her position as head cook in the Harry Hoag School kitchen. She began working for the district in 1999, and has served more than 21 dedicated years in the food service department. Dawn joined the Fort Plain staff because the school hours worked well with her own children’s schedules, and because she enjoys cooking and working with children. She worked her way up from a part-time position to full time and then to head cook.
“Throughout her career, Dawn has enjoyed trying new recipes and helping kids to try new things,” said Lauri Broady, school nutrition director. “She is known for her creativity and the kitchen decorations that have brought joy to students for many years. Dawn has always been a person to step up in a time of crisis, helping in the district in times of everything from floods to COVID. Her dedication to our school community has been admirable, and she will be missed by all.
“Please join us in wishing Dawn well in her well-deserved retirement and her plans to do more traveling, enjoy projects around the house, and continue her love of creating painting, crafts and gifts of all kinds,” Broady added. “Congratulations, Dawn!”
In the photo below, Dawn on the job and at a retirement celebration. Note her shirt: Lunch Ladies Rock!
Philip Thibodeau is retiring from teaching health and physical education (PE) at the junior/senior high school. He has taught in the district for 24 years. In addition to teaching, Phil has coached the Hilltoppers in a variety of sports including varsity and modified girls basketball, junior varsity softball, modified soccer and modified, junior varsity and varsity baseball. In 2016, his coaching abilities helped the varsity baseball team become the Class D NYSPHSAA state champions.
“Phil is a quiet force, for good, as a teacher, a coach and a colleague,” said Dr. Deborah Larrabee, Jr./Sr. High School principal. “His uncommon empathy for his students makes him an educator who will long be remembered by those whose lives he has touched.
“He is witty, quick to laugh, and just as quick to say the thing that will get others laughing – often at their own behaviors,” Dr. Larrabee continued. “Phil graduated from Fort Plain in 1983, and returned to his alma mater to help the young people of the community he loves and dedicated himself to. He will be missed, but forever remembered. Thank you, Phil Thibodeau.”
Charlie Karker, athletic director, has known Phil as a Fort Plain student and a colleague. He said, “Phil was known to be very diligent and determined to accomplish what needed to be done in order to become what he wanted to be as an adult and a human being. The same can be said of Phil, the athlete. He was very coachable, did what was asked, and led by example – qualities every coach wants from their athletes.”
Karker quoted football coach, Lou Houltz, to summarize Phil’s philosophy of teaching and coaching. “Ability is what you are capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.”
Phil helped foster students’ abilities, attitudes and motivation to help them succeed in school, in sports and in life. Fort Plain will not be the same without him. Fort Plain wishes him a retirement filled with health, fun and happiness.
Farewell to Phil: Philip Thibodeau on the job at Fort Plain, photoed shortly before his retirement.
Online Parent Forum addresses future of hybrid learning at Harry Hoag
Thank you to all who participated in the January 27 online Parent Forum to share the results of the recent Hybrid Learning Feedback Form and discuss the evolving instructional program at Harry Hoag School.
At the forum, Superintendent of Schools John Bishop and Harry Hoag Principal Lauren Crisman discussed the feedback received, addressed concerns and questions from parents and guardians, and noted that any changes from the current hybrid learning program would not take effect until March at the earliest. Maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students and staff remains the district’s top goal.
The online Parent Forum was similar to those conducted in late August, and was broadcast and recorded on YouTube at https://youtu.be/xaJmskxbDA4.
“The purposes of the forum were to engage, inform and involve our stakeholders in the district’s goal of providing a safe and healthy learning environment for students and staff,” said Superintendent Bishop. “We appreciate all who participated and will keep our school community apprised as we continue to develop our instructional plan for Harry Hoag.”
The instructional plan and schedules at the junior/senior high school will remain unchanged this school year.
Anyone who was unable to participate in the forum and has questions, may call or email the Superintendent’s office.
County approves start of high risk sports
On Friday, Jan. 29, Montgomery County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort announced, in conjunction with Public Health Director Sara Boerenko, that “high-risk sports are permitted to begin Feb. 1, pending local school district approval. Spectators will not be allowed at games and scrimmages, however districts plan to use live streaming for parents and fans.”
In a news release, Ossenfort said, “Together with our superintendents, we have created a path forward for high-risk sports that balances safety but also allows student athletes to compete.
“Teams will be allowed to begin practicing, scheduling scrimmages and games Feb. 1 within Montgomery County. Upon the rolling seven-day average falling below 4 percent or less, Montgomery County teams will be allowed to play games with counties that have approved play. Currently districts are awaiting guidance from Section 2 regarding wrestling protocols, and more information will be forthcoming upon receipt.
“This decision will allow teams to begin practice and games, avoiding a total loss of the season. It is truly my hope the metrics improve and student athletes can commence out of county competition during the winter season.”
Ossenfort will discuss high-risk sports in further detail during Montgomery County’s Facebook live briefing on Monday at 1 p.m.
A special meeting of the Fort Plain Board of Education will be held on Monday, Feb. 1, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. in the Harry Hoag cafeteria to discuss approval of high risk winter sports.
Sarah Paradiso honored with DAR Good Citizen Award
Fort Plain High School senior Sarah Paradiso has been chosen as the winner of the 2021 DAR Good Citizen Award. The award recognizes a senior who possesses qualities of leadership, dependability, service and patriotism in school and the community.
By winning the award, Sarah has been recognized by both her teachers and her fellow students. High school faculty vote on nominees for the award, and once the field is narrowed, seniors vote for the winner.
“Sarah is the perfect choice!” said Dr. Deborah Larrabee, Fort Plain Jr./Sr. High School principal. “She is an outstanding student, athlete and leader among her peers. Sarah’s academic success earned her a regular place on the honor roll, and last fall, she was among members of the Environmental Study Team who produced a video about the Erie Canal that the Smithsonian published to its website and made part of a traveling exhibit.
“Sarah also has been a standout player on the volleyball team,” Dr. Larrabee continued, “and this fall, she signed with Keuka College, a Division III school located southeast of Rochester, where she will major in education.
“Sarah is also the voice of our high school morning announcements, always greeting us with one of her jokes. She is a member of the Fort Plain-Canajoharie Drama Club and will soon be showcasing her talents in ‘A Broadway Review: Director’s Choice’ . . . certainly a multi-talented young lady!
“We are proud to congratulate Sarah on earning this special honor.”
Sarah in action, airborne, on the volleyball court.
Job opening: Bus Driver
Schools are great places to work! The Fort Plain Central School District is looking for a bus driver:
Regular Run Bus Driver
The Fort Plain Central School District has an opening for a Regular Run Bus Driver. This is a 10-month position with benefits. Starting rate is $23.17 per hour. The work of employees in this class involves, but is not limited to, the responsibilities of the safety of students while operating a school bus on a regular schedule. Job description and duties will be further discussed during the interview.
Applicants must have a valid NYS Driver’s License, CDL-B with S endorsement.
Please submit your application, letter of interest, three letters of recommendation and copy of your driver’s license to Jessica Sanders, Director of Human Resources.
Western Athletic Conference statement on high risk winter sports
The Western Athletic Conference (WAC) has issued the following statement.
“The Western Athletic Conference is developing a plan for the implementation of high risk winter sports (basketball, wrestling and cheerleading) with an anticipated start date of February 1, 2021. Our goal is to provide a safe, positive and meaningful interscholastic athletic experience for our students. We are working in consultation with our local county health departments to ensure the health and safety of our students, coaches, staff, officials and school communities. We appreciate the time our health departments are directing towards interscholastic athletics during these trying circumstances.
“As has become the norm with this pandemic, this situation is very fluid and ever changing. We will share an update on an official start date as more information becomes available and necessary approvals have been granted. Please continue to be patient, but ready to begin the season quickly if approval has been given. Thank you for your continued support during this most challenging time.”
Superintendent’s message about COVID-19 case
January 18, 2021
Dear Members of the Fort Plain Schools Community:
We learned on Monday, January 18, that three members of our school community have tested positive for COVID-19. There is one case at the high school and two at Harry Hoag. All those impacted for contact tracing have been contacted directly.
The district is working closely with the Montgomery County Public Health Department, and they are advising on any necessary quarantine. Please note that the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other privacy laws restrict us from disclosing or confirming any personally identifiable information. We cannot identify anyone who has tested positive.
We will continue to work closely with the health department and keep you advised of any further information. Our goal remains to keep our schools open and safe for students and staff alike. Please contact my office with any questions. Thank you.
Sincerely,
John Bishop
Superintendent of Schools
HS Elective Fair goes virtual
Calling all FPHS students in 8th through 11th grades: check out this year’s Elective Fair online! We are presenting the fair to students in January, and you can check out a pdf version of it below. If you have an idea or request for a specific class, contact Ms. Mahoney or Ms. Cushing.
FPHS science teacher blasts off into new career
Fort Plain Jr./Sr. High School science teacher Patrick Petty will blast off into a new career later this month, after accepting a position as an education specialist with NASA. Petty, a Fort Plain Class of 2007 alumnus who’s taught Hilltoppers since fall 2018, will help develop projects in NASA’s NSPACE program. He’ll work remotely at first, due to the pandemic, and in time will relocate to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Petty’s new position is a dream job for an individual who is as much a dedicated, lifelong learner as an energetic and innovative educator. “I’ve always been interested in learning new things, in what’s on the cutting edge in research and knowledge at NASA,” he said.
“I’ve attended a number of NSPACE curriculum conferences in Houston, and last February, I was a presenter at a Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC) through NASA and Space Center Houston (the Johnson Space Center Visitor’s Center).” In June 2019, Petty was one 50 educators nationwide to attended the LiftOff Summer Institute.
“As an education specialist with NASA’s NSPACE program,” Petty said, “I’ll work with college and high school students to develop real-world projects with real-world applications that can ultimately be used on the International Space Station.”
Past NSPACE projects have included the design and testing of hardware to be used on the Space Station, such as tools, and fabric that could be used for seat covers.
Petty speaks highly of his Fort Plain education. “My teachers instilled in us the power of dreams and the belief that with hard work and a dream, you can accomplish anything,” he said. “Fort Plain truly is a special place; the community and the educators are top-notch.
“The passion, dedication and belief in their students create a learning environment where students can dare mighty things and accomplish even greater things,” Petty continued. “For such a small town, we have had numerous individuals go on to accomplish amazing feats. There is talent in every zip code, and it is the job of educators to harness the talent and let it shine. In my mind, Fort Plain Central School does a wonderful job with that!”
“While we are sad to see him leave, we could not be more thrilled for Patrick,” said Fort Plain High School Principal Dr. Deborah Larrabee. “He has brought back so much information from conferences and infused it into our classrooms. I am incredibly proud of him for securing his dream job!”
“What a great opportunity for Patrick!” said Fort Plain Superintendent of Schools John Bishop. “We are grateful for the years he spent serving the students of the Fort Plain school community. NASA is lucky to have him. Congratulations!”
During his time at Fort Plain, Petty frequently shared his experiences and knowledge with students beyond those in his own classroom. After attending the LiftOff Summer Institute, he arranged a video chat for 8th grade students with NASA engineer Jerry Woodfill. He also taught students in Lisa Petty’s Life Skills class how to launch rockets outdoors as part of a science lesson.
“Patrick has always included my class in lessons, and he really connects with students at all levels,” said Lisa Petty (who is also Patrick’s mother). “I have gone to conferences with him, and he is so passionate about what he does. Our students definitely want to keep in touch!”
Judging from the past, space won’t be the final frontier for NASA-related learning for Fort Plain students. Patrick Petty does indeed plan to stay connected with his alma mater to share learning opportunities and inspire local students. When asked for parting advice for them, Petty said, “Dream big, and don’t be afraid to take a big leap. The world doesn’t end at the four corners of town.”
In the photo at top of page: Patrick Petty donned a space suit during a NASA conference for educators. His last day at Fort Plain is Jan. 15, but he’ll continue to educate and inspire students in his new position with NASA’s NSPACE program.
In the photo above, students in Patrick Petty and Dorene Goodwin’s Living Environment class were challenged to design a shield to protect Earth from an asteroid. They are working with students in Indiana on the project.
In the photo below, Patrick Petty teaches Living Environment students about the anatomy of a sheep’s eye.
