Category: Middle School News
Pre-K registration open at Liberty
Pre-K registration for the 2025-26 school year began March 1 at Liberty Central School District and will remain open through March 31.
Eligible pre-kindergarten students must be residents of the district and turn 4 years old before Dec. 1, 2025.
All eligible applications received by March 31 will be included in a lottery for any available slots. The lottery will take place in late April. Any applications filed after March 30 will be added to a waitlist. All slots will be full day.
Pre-K registration is held at Liberty School District’s Registration Office, 115 Buckley St., Liberty. To make an appointment call Heather Austin at 845-292-5400, ext. 2331.
Families are asked to bring the following to their appointment, along with a completed registration packet:
- A copy of the parent/guardian’s photo ID
- The child’s birth certificate
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill or rental lease)
- Immunization records, including proof of lead screen
- Copy of a recent physical exam (must include all school physical exam requirements; please check with doctor)
- Custody papers, if applicable
LCSD faculty, staff learn, hear from students at professional development day
While many students enjoyed a well-deserved sleep-in during their day off on Friday, March 14, a group of dedicated Liberty students took part in the district’s Professional Development/Conference Day, engaging with administrators, faculty and staff to share their insights and feedback.
Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan and Interim Assistant Superintendent Marianne Serratore kicked off the day by addressing the faculty and staff, offering key updates on the district’s five-year strategic plan as well as the comprehensive improvement and priority plans for both the district and schools. They reviewed the progress made thus far, highlighted the significant improvements achieved this year and outlined the next steps in the district’s continued growth and development.
Student panel
Following the address, a panel of 10 students took to the stage in the high school auditorium to offer valuable feedback on their experiences at Liberty. The student panel consisted of seniors Kenisha Ledoux and Jackson Bustillo, early graduate Camryn Will, junior Shaun Bickham, sophomore Mariely Medina Orellana, and ninth-grader Adriana Ponce Agredano. Additionally, middle school students Selkir Molina Gonzalez, Claire Ferguson, Avery Decker and Parker Gissentanner participated in the panel.
The students were asked a variety of questions, which allowed them to reflect on their experiences at Liberty. The topics covered included their overall experience, specific classes that had made an impact, notable staff members, extracurricular activities, important lessons learned, and their future aspirations.
Each student was able to offer their individual insights on their experiences, however several themes ran throughout their responses. Having a teacher or staff member they can turn to for advice and support was very important. Students also said they appreciated being challenged—in class, extracurricular activities and in personal growth—by their teachers, as it is done to push them forward.
The older students encouraged the younger students to take advantage of all opportunities presented to them, even if it is out of their comfort zone. Other advice from the students was to stay organized, not let others influence your decisions, never give up, have fun, stay positive and find balance.
“It’s important to find time for (academic) things, but it’s important to find time for yourself, because you are important,” Kenisha said.
Expanding skills
The Professional Development Day also offered faculty and staff numerous opportunities to enhance their skills. One such session, aimed at visual arts teachers, focused on ceramics techniques, providing insights into new approaches for teaching this medium.
Several faculty attended specialized training in Fallsburg, including an AI in the Music Classroom session tailored to music teachers. Another session, One Trusted Adult, was offered to teacher assistants and aides, emphasizing the importance of creating a trusting relationship with students. This session provided strategies to help staff build meaningful connections with students, offering them a reliable adult to turn to for support.
ELA and math teachers, along with aides, participated in training on the NWEA MAPS Assessments, which will be implemented in elementary and middle schools starting next year. These assessments will help teachers better identify students’ academic needs, track progress and pinpoint areas of strength.
In the area of career readiness, the middle and high schools use SchoolLinks to assist students in planning their career paths. On this day, guidance and clinical staff received training on SchoolLinks Event Planner, a tool designed to streamline the organization and management of career fairs, mentorship programs, internships and other events that allow Liberty students to explore careers and connect with professionals in their desired fields.
LCSD Behavioral Specialist Sheila Wormuth led a session, “Defining Trauma and Understanding Its Impact,” that helped staff understand the various ways trauma can affect students, equipping them with the knowledge to create a supportive and welcoming environment for all learners.
To further support the district’s English Language Learners (ELL), Educational Technology Specialist Meredith Paff conducted a session providing an overview of instructional technology designed to assist ELL students. Additionally, Paff offered training for elementary staff on using the LES building calendar through Google and creating personalized settings to enhance efficiency in scheduling and communication.
When not engaged in specific training sessions, staff had the opportunity to focus on other essential tasks such as state-mandated training, curriculum mapping using the new Eduplanet platform, lesson planning and collaboration within professional learning communities.
“Each Professional Development Day builds upon our past efforts,” Dr. Sullivan said. “I want to thank Ms. Serratore for organizing these exceptional events. While this marks the last PD day for the year, I am confident that our learning and growth will continue as we strive to make Liberty a great place to learn—for both our colleagues and, most importantly, our students.”
Harlem Wizards to return to Liberty March 19
The Liberty PTA will again host the Harlem Wizards vs. the Liberty Redhawk staff basketball game at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, in the Liberty High School Gymnasium.
Tickets are on sale now. To order tickets and for ticket information, visit https://pretix.eu/harlemwizards/libertyny03-19-25-06-30pm/
Four receive Excellence in Service Awards at BOE meeting
A high school teacher assistant, middle school teacher, elementary teacher aide and an elementary teacher were honored during the Liberty Central School Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, March 11.
Mrs. Bernadette Hofsommer
Mrs. Hofsommer was recognized for her generosity to the community, being a role model for her high school students and ensuring her students are given the tools they need to succeed.
“Bernadette has selflessly and at personal expense continued to purchase, put together and deliver gifts for the holidays for our elderly residents,” her nomination read. “She is modeling the behavior we want our students to exhibit.”
Her nominator also said Mrs. Hofsommer makes sure students’ test modification needs are met.
Mr. Justin Golden
Mr. Golden, who is a sixth grade ELA and social studies teacher, is committed to the growth and well-being of his students, according to his nominator.
His work with the Student Council and Ski Club creates opportunities for students to engage, learn and have fun.
“His genuine relationships with his students are a testament to his care and dedication—many return long after they’ve left his classroom, just to visit and share how much of an impact he made on their lives,” the nomination read. “His enthusiasm and dedication make him an unforgettable presence at our school.”
Ms. Kimberly Staton
Ms. Staton is an elementary teacher aide who goes above and beyond for the LES students and staff, especially her work with the LES musical.
She assisted in not only practices but also in assembling props,and staying late to ensure the students had an exceptional experience, her nominators said.
Her work in the classroom and with staff is also appreciated.
“The students in the classrooms where Miss Kim works are always delighted to have her presence. She is dedicated to putting the students first every single day,” one nomination read. “Through my years of having the pleasure of working with her she has always treated every child as if they were her own,” another nominator wrote. “She is always going above and beyond to even help and care for her fellow coworkers to the best of her abilities
Miss Dakota Hahl
Miss Hahl, a fourth-grade teacher and facilitator, was nominated for her work ensuring ENL students get the support they need while fostering collaboration with their peers as well as becoming a leader in the school.
She, along with Mrs. Kaitlyn Stephens and Mrs. Aeowyn Brust, took the initiative last fall to implement strategic grouping for her ENL student, which has been adapted by other grade levels in the building, the nomination read.
“She carefully adapts the curriculum to meet the needs of her diverse classroom, which includes students at every proficiency level, from entering to transitioning,” her nominator wrote. “Through differentiated instruction, culturally responsive materials, use of stations, and targeted scaffolding, she creates an inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive and build confidence in their language development.”
A second-year fourth-grade facilitator, Miss Hahl was also recognized for her work in that role. “Dakota leads with wonderful integrity, adaptability and communication. She is very organized and always on top of everything,” her nomination read.
Each month, staff members nominate others they believe are going above and beyond, be it a single act of excellence or kindness or a continuous work ethic.
We congratulate these employees on their awards.
Liberty issues reminder of communication policies, safety procedures
With spring approaching, Liberty Central School District is reminding families of some communication policies and safety procedures.
The district encourages the community to come out to support the students in their academic, athletic and fine art endeavors, while ensuring the campuses remain safe.
Parents or guardians are reminded of the Chain of Command Calling Guide for details on whom to contact with any concerns. Concerns regarding bullying and safety may also be reported through the Anonymous Alerts system.
The district adheres to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association guidelines, which encourage positivity, support and sportsmanship, and reminds spectators to follow the policy. Tobacco, alcohol, marijuana or other drug use is prohibited on school grounds, as are pets. Staff members are onsite during all contests and they will ask those who violate the policies to comply or leave.
The district also issued reminders of the steps in place to make Liberty a safe place in which to learn. Entry to all buildings requires keycard access for staff, and LCSD has a strict visiting procedure. Visitors are restricted to a single point of entry in each building. All visitors must show a valid ID at an automated kiosk before entering any of our school buildings, and will be buzzed in. All classrooms require keycard access as well, and doors are expected to remain closed and locked when occupied.
Through the district’s door lock system, school officials are able to immediately lock all doors if there is an emergency. Digital signs throughout common areas will help inform students and staff of what is happening. There are also strobe lights inside and outside the building, which will help alert of emergencies and advise those outside the building not to enter. If an emergency occurs, the Liberty Police Department is able to monitor school cameras.
LPD is an important partner, as a school resource officer from LPD is placed in each building. They regularly patrol and check for vulnerabilities and are a valuable resource to students and staff.
Faculty and staff are trained in what to do, in line with the districtwide safety plan, if an emergency occurs, and our schools have emergency drills several times a year.
“Safety for our students and staff is always one of the top priorities for Liberty Central School District, and we appreciate your support,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan said.
Library plans movie night for families, book club for kindergartners
Liberty Public Library will host a recurring event for kindergartners as well as a family movie event in the coming months.
The Junior Bookworm Club for kindergartners will meet from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Mondays, April 28 to May 19.
All children will be picked up at LES and brought to the library by library staff.
Students will be provided snacks, read books, play games, do crafts and more.
Registration will begin Monday, March 24, by calling 845-292-6070. Those who call earlier than that will be asked to call back.
Once registered, a permission form will be sent home that must be returned the student’s teacher indicating the parent or guardian’s pickup preference and other information. Pickup options include the child being picked up at the library at 4 p.m. or being brought by staff to the LES Boys & Girls Club, if they are already part of the program.
On Saturday, April 5, starting at 1 p.m., the library will host a showing of “Moana 2.”
Students of all ages and their parents or guardians are welcome to the free event. Popcorn will be served. An adult must stay with any child younger than 12.
The Liberty Public Library is at 189 N. Main St. in Liberty. For more information, call 845-292-6070 or visit www.libertypubliclibrary.org.
LMS principal issues reminder of testing policies and procedures
Liberty Middle School Principal Heather Cheh resent the following letter, originally sent in January, to LMS families as a reminder of testing policies and procedures:
Hello LMS Families,
We hope you are doing well and managing the cold winter weather. This letter will be highlighting some of the assessment information for Liberty Middle School.
STAR Renaissance
Students have just completed their Winter STAR ELA and Math assessments. We look forward to reviewing the data once make-up testing is complete. The goal is to see growth from the Fall STAR testing, and then again from Winter to Spring.
Our school’s Wildly Important Goals (WIGs):
- By Winter 2025, each grade level’s STAR Assessment state proficiency rate will increase 4.5% in ELA & Math
- By May 2025, each grade level’s STAR Assessment state proficiency rathe will increase 7% in ELA & Math
Each year students also review their Instructional Planning Student Report after each assessment reviewing their STAR scores and setting their own WIGs and lead measures to show growth. Students keep this information in their Leadership Portfolios.
Reminder of information shared during Fall 2024
STAR Renaissance Access Letter
STAR testing is important information that helps teachers collaborate under the MTSS/PLC frameworks and determine placement in their (What I Need Now) WINN Periods. Liberty Middle School students will be taking the STAR Renaissance Fall, Winter and Spring Assessments in both ELA and Math. These assessments are tools used to drive instructional practice. Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is not a separate program, class or intervention, but rather a way to organize to meet students’ needs. MTSS includes both enrichments and interventions, depending upon student need. This framework helps educators identify students who need additional support both academically and behaviorally.
- ENG STAR/MTSS Letter from Sept 2024
- ESP STAR/MTSS Letter from Sept 2024
- STAR Renaissance Family Resources
HMH Growth Measures
Students also take their HMH Growth Measure, Fall, Winter and Spring during their ELA and Math classes. The HMH Growth Measure is a computer-based test that evaluates a student’s reading comprehension/language arts skills and math skills. It’s a research-based benchmark assessment that helps teachers understand how students are performing against grade-level expectations.
What does the HMH Reading Growth Measure do?
- Helps teachers identify students’ strengths and weaknesses
- Helps teachers inform instruction and intervention
- Helps teachers set goals for students
- Helps teachers track student progress over time
New York State Computer Based Testing NYS CBT
Students begin the NYS CBT Simulations next week for Math, ELA and Science 5 & 8. The Statewide CBT Simulations provide the opportunity for school staff to evaluate the readiness of their school’s internal systems, hardware, and school testing procedures for CBT.
Simulation tests are beneficial for students because they provide a realistic practice environment, allowing them to identify their strengths and weaknesses in a low-stakes setting, improve test-taking strategies, manage anxiety, and gain confidence before facing a real exam, all while getting familiar with the format and types of questions, and online tools they might encounter.
The actual NYS CBT dates begin in April. All of the 8th grade students will be taking the Algebra Regents this year, instead of the NYS CBT Math assessment.
Please Note for the NYS CBT in the Spring:
If you so choose, parents can write and submit a refusal letter for their child from taking the NYS CBT Math, Science, or ELA tests, 3 days prior to the test date, you must send that in writing with your signature, via paper or email to mkristiansen@libertyk12.org.
- Letters/notes will not be accepted on the day of the test.
- Students will not be allowed to refuse testing on the day of the test.
- Students will not be allowed to take a partial test one day, then refuse another day.
- We do not encourage, nor promote refusals.
- There is no opting out or refusing the 8th Grade Math Regents.
We know that no single test provides a complete picture of a child’s ability, and any type of placement at LMS, or future LHS placement is based on multiple data points. We combine multiple measures, including classroom performance, classroom assessments and district assessments, along with the NYS assessments to make informed instructional decisions for all students.
The New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT)
ENL students will also be taking the NYSESLAT starting in May. The New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) is designed to annually assess the English language proficiency of all English Language Learners (ELLs) enrolled in Grades K–12 in New York State schools. The test provides the State and schools with important information about the English language development of ELLs and is part of the State’s compliance with federal laws that mandate the annual assessment and monitoring of the English language proficiency of all ELLs. The results of the NYSESLAT will determine the levels of service ELLs will receive in Bilingual Education and English as a New Language programs for the school year as prescribed in Commissioner’s Regulations Part 154-2 and 154-3.
We thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s teacher or counselor.
Heather Cheh
Instagram: libertyms_ny
Liberty musicians to take part in All-County Music Festival
Nearly 100 students from Liberty Central School District will take part in the 70th annual Sullivan County Music Educators’ Association All-County Music Festival in Monticello.
Students will work with notable guest conductors from throughout the United States on Friday, March 7, and during the day on Saturday, March 8.
The event will culminate with three concerts on Saturday at the Monticello High School Arnold Packer Hughs Auditorium at 39 Breakey Ave. Elementary Chorus and Middle School Band will perform at 1 p.m., followed by Senior High Mixed Chorus, Junior High Band and Senior High Treble Chorus at 3 p.m., with the final concert, featuring Senior High Jazz Band and Junior High String Orchestra at 5 p.m.
Liberty students scheduled to participate in the festival are:
Elementary Chorus
Katarina Card, Riley Church-Bradley, Avery Decker, Viviana Fraiser, Joseph Geoghan, Tyler Kavleski, Sydney Kehrer, Makenzie Knack, Ryleigh LaMantia, Josslyn Letohic, Daisuke Mapes, Cora McConnell, Nicholas McPhillips, Logan Moore, Denali Owens, Shaleigh Santiago, MaKynlie Smith, Henry Vogler, Raegan Wagner and Sophie Zayas.
Middle School Band
Owen Brust, Raymond Cottman Jr., Dia D’Agata, Claire Ferguson, Michael Garzon, Chase Golzak, Gavin Grant, Mia Grant, Genesis Harrison, Dylan Joya Reyes, Aubrie Keating, Lilly Kehrley, Antoni Klys, Corinne Lake, Harper Matuszak, Bentley Moore, Scarlett Ratner, Sherlene Romero, Caleb Rusin and Brycen Smith.
Junior High Band
Phillip Burrous, Amelia Cole, Grace Fitzgerald, Jasmine Garcia Reyes, Mariana Joya Reyes, Jacob Pennell and Tyler Smith.
Junior High String Orchestra
Farrah Conklin Degraw, Joshua DiBartolo, Makayla Fuentes-Serapio, Belle Gandulla, Alan Hernandez Lopez, Ayelene Ines-Leon, Isabella Intranuovo, Olivia Matuszak, McKinzie Paterson, Aaliyssa Rodriguez, Sulenny Romero and Alena Tarabichi and Sophia Vasko.
Junior High Band
Zachariah Bickham, Hope Corbett and Timothy Eronimous.
Senior High Jazz Band
Kaitlyn Bodolosky, Brandon Buschmann, Sophia Ferguson, Luis Molina Gonzalez and Phillo Romero.
High School Treble Choir
Endya Alvarez, Liliana Crespo, Sydania Foster, Lianna Gissentaner, Audrey Krum, Lena Lagatutta, Angelina Magie, Katherine Maldonado, Elizabeth Navarette, Riley Santiago and Mykenzi Williams.
High School Mixed Choir
Sophia Avellino, Genna DeFrank, Eli Desrochers, , Allisson Diaz Lopez, Christopher DiBartolo, Lia Guillerme, Jordan Hewlett, Kelsey Hopkins,Tyler Juron, Jacob Kelly, Joshua Kratz, Shea-Leigh Kristiansen, James Letohic III, Gabriella Sheridan, Elijah Warren, Rachel Yaun, Sebastian Yupanqui and Rita Zheng.
Participating students have had a chance to pre-purchase tickets. Any remaining tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and are $8 each.
Please note that all concert audience members will go through a security checkpoint with metal detectors. Attendees are asked to leave unnecessary bags in the vehicle and personal knives are not permitted into the building.
For more information on the concert, call Andrew Verdino or Michael Mingo at 845-794-8840, ext. 10853.
No changes in ESSA designations for 2024-25
The New York State Education Department recently released accountability designations for all public school districts as required under the state’s Every Student Succeeds Act, or ESSA. There are no changes in the 2024-25 designations.
The Middle School remains a Targeted Support and Improvement School, because four student subgroups — Black, Hispanic, English Language Learners and Economically Disadvantaged — did not meet expectations.
Liberty Elementary School remains designated as a Potential Target School, due to the achievement scores of our students with disabilities.
The District remains a Targeted District, because of the Middle School designation.
Last year Liberty High School was classified a Local Support and Improvement school, formerly known as a “School in Good Standing.” LHS had been on the Targeted Support and Improvement school list for several years, including the two years designations were not changed because of the pause in testing during the COVID pandemic.
For more information about the district’s accountability designations, visit the district’s ESSA webpage, or contact Interim Assistant Superintendent Marianne Serratore at 845-292-5400, ext. 2063, or mserratore@libertyk12.org.
A video message from the superintendent on winter accomplishments
Please watch the following video message from Dr. Patrick Sullivan,
Message in text below:
Hello Liberty,
Spring is just around the corner, at least that’s what we are told. But before the warmer weather hits, I want to take a moment to look back at all the great things our Redhawks have accomplished this winter.
Our athletes have shown growth across all sports, with several student-athletes seeing post-season play. Seven wrestlers competed in sectionals, four of our indoor track and field athletes took part in state qualifiers, and a Liberty skier, Hudson Danzilo, participated in states.
On the arts side, our photographers and writers earned dozens of awards in the Mid-Hudson Regional Scholastic Art and Writing competition. Liberty Performing Arts presented a wonderful production of “Clue,” and LES had its first Drama Club production, “Seussical Kids.” I look forward to the Middle School’s “Shrek Jr.” in April.
I also want to thank everyone who attended our All Things Liberty Winter Festival last month.It was great seeing so many of our Redhawk families have fun while learning more about our school community.
I visit classrooms across our buildings regularly and am impressed with all the hard work our faculty and staff are putting in to make Liberty a great place to learn. We couldn’t do what we do without them.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to email questions@libertyk12.org.
Thank you.