Concerns Expressed About Senior Trip
By Doug La Rocque
Swimming safety, cost, lodging and timing were all matters brought up at the Tuesday, December 18 meeting of the Berlin Central School Board. Board member Kellie Kaschack expressed her reservations about swimming, telling High School Principal Dr. Cathie Allain, “I would not be comfortable approving this, if at least two of the four adults accompanying the seniors on the trip to Virginia Beach, did not hold current life saving certifications.” Ms. Allain responded that two of the adults do have life saving experience, but was unsure if they were currently certified. Ms. Kaschack expressed particular concern about any planned ocean swimming.
Board member Katie Snyder questioned the cost of the trip, $512 per student, noting that some students’ families may not be able to afford this. Principal Allain countered that there is a school program where students can earn credits toward reducing the cost, or paying the amount entirely.
Ms. Kaschack also questioned why the group was renting a large house, versus motel rooms, asking if that option might be less expensive. Ms. Allain said the house allows them to prepare their own meals, and gives them a large common room for group functions. Board President Frank Zwack wondered if they were always locked into going to Virginia Beach, and urged the school administration to “broaden their horizons and look at other opportunities” in the future.
The timing of the spring trip does not coincide with a scheduled school vacation, something the entire Board expressed concern about. After a brief discussion, Principal Allain admitted it was indeed board policy to schedule such trips during a break in classes, and would be done that way in the future. The Board decided not to approve the trip at that meeting, putting it on the agenda for its round table discussion in the new year.
Combining More Sports
Athletic Director Josh Weaver said everything is in place for a combined Berlin-New Lebanon Track team in the spring of 2020. He also asked the Board for its help in trying to get all the necessary steps completed to join the two schools Girls Softball teams in time for this spring’s season. He noted there are apparently five girls who want to play the sport at New Lebanon, but that is not nearly enough to field a team. The Board gave its approval, and Mr. Weaver will now work with the New Lebanon Central School to complete the process. There was also a brief discussion among Board members about the possibility of eventually combining the entire sports programs. Besides track, the wrestling and swimming programs have been combined quite successfully for a number of years.
Bring on the Pigeons
The Board also heard a presentation as to forming a trap shooting team. The targets are sometimes referred to as clay pigeons. This program would be held at the Berlin Rod and Gun Club, except during sectional competition. Advocates say it has been proven to open up sports to students who may not compete in more traditional venues, particularly in rural districts such as Berlin, where so many students are also hunters. They also stressed all the safety factors built into the program, such a students having to turn over their weapons to instructors during the shooting season, and if there was a match away from the club, that weapons are transported separately from the students. All participants must also have completed all required weapons safety courses before being allowed to participate.
The sport is currently offered in the Hoosick Falls School District, and board member Jeff Paine voiced his support, saying “it’s a lot of fun, especially if you hit it.”
Other Matters
The audit report of the district’s finances was generally very positive, suggesting only some minor changes. It also noted that the district’s current fund balance was 265 thousand dollars above what is permitted by tax cap regulations, something that will have to be addressed in the upcoming budget season.
Elementary School Principal Tracy Kent reported that all parent teacher conferences have taken place and report cards have gone out. Principal Allain said the split Choral and Band concerts at the MS/HS were well attended and very successful, and Pupil Services is looking at a self contained program to help students with their study needs, and possibly bringing in a behavior specialist to work with the teaching staff.