James A. Gratto

This document outlines the basic concepts for athletic alignment within Section One, establishing a three-conference system governed by the Section One Athletic Council. It details classification criteria based on NYSPHSAA BEDS figures, guidelines for league placement within conferences considering geography and classification, and procedures for alternate league structures. Key areas include comprehensive scheduling responsibilities, minimum game requirements, rules for crossover contests, and provisions for Ability-Based Developmental Leagues and independent team status. The alignment is set for a three-year commitment, aiming to ensure structured and fair athletic competition across member schools.

The Southern Westchester BOCES Strategic Plan, titled 'Blueprint for Excellence', serves as a roadmap for organizational growth and continuous improvement. It focuses on three key priority areas: Operations and Management, The Student Experience, and The Staff Experience. The plan aims to foster an inclusive, supportive, and modernized learning and work environment, provide outstanding student experiences through rigorous and outcome-driven programs, and promote organizational excellence through open communication, collaboration, and professional growth among staff. Guided by core values of service, integrity, equity, opportunity, and access, the plan aspires to position Southern Westchester BOCES as a proactive, responsive, and student-centered hub of expertise and innovation for its regional and state-wide partners.

The meeting included personnel approvals for both certified and non-certified staff, as well as the acceptance of various business reports, including the Treasurer's report, accounts receivable, claims audit, bids, donations, and individual and group contracts. Discussion items covered the NYSSBA convention, and various reports were presented by the District Superintendent and the Chief Operating Officer. The meeting also included periods of executive session, and concluded with a session for comments from the board, staff, and the public.

The meeting included the approval of the personnel agenda and the administration of the oath of office for the new District Clerk. Key business items addressed were the scheduling of board meetings for the upcoming year, the designation of the BOCES Annual Meeting and vote dates, and the authorization of the business agenda, special aid projects, various contracts, and the sale of surplus vehicles and equipment. The board also convened for an executive session and allowed for public comments.

The meeting included an instructional report featuring an APPR evaluation presentation. The board approved and ratified the terms of a Memorandum of Agreement with the BOCES Teachers Association. Additionally, the board approved the Claims Audit Report, Bids and Addenda Report, Request for Proposal report, Purchase Option Plan Report, and Contracts Report. The District Superintendent discussed mental health initiatives, efforts to engage federal legislators regarding an IRS penalty waiver, DEI skill sets, and the Hawthorne Cedar Knolls graduation ceremony. The board also entered and re-entered an executive session to discuss the employment history of a particular person.