The Pioneer Board of Education met in regular session on the same day the 2023-24 parent-student orientation was held.
At the Sept. 5 meeting, Superintendent Nicholas Silvaroli reported that all was smooth for the annual "Return to Learn" Orientation that was held at all buildings.
With the first day of classes on Sept. 6, Mr. Silvaroli said he is committed to working with the administrative team on any challenges at the start of school and throughout the year.
Mr. Silvaroli also reported on some accomplishments of current and former staff:
- During the June 2023 New York State Association of Agriculture Educators, Jonathan Clayson, high school Agriculture teacher and FFA co-advisor, took the initiative and challenge to present a workshop to all participants. According to Shari Lighthall, Director of Agriculture Education Outreach at Cornell University, "The willingness of [Mr. Clayson] to share ideas and collaborate with other teachers is part of what makes agricultural education in NewYork so successful." More than 145 agricultural educators from across the state attended this event as the culminating event for each school year. "The activities presented by Jon helped other teachers to achieve new goals and lessons while developing their own personal teaching styles and abilities," Ms. Lighthall added.
- Lindsey LoBianco, Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Pioneer Middle School, has been selected to serve on the New York State Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Educators (NYSAFCSE) Professional Development Leadership Team for 2023-2024. This program is funded through the Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Educators, and is sponsored by the New York State Education Department. According to Molly Jennes and Regina Nardi of the NYSAFCSE, "Lindsey will be serving the Western South region in this capacity this year. It is a volunteer position and her willingness to devote their time and energy to promote excellence in teaching and learning in our profession is commended." Lindsey is respected by her peers and is a chosen leader, NYSAFCSE officials said. She will complete four days of training during the school year to be updated on a variety of issues and topics.
- Former Pioneer High School teacher Bob Schooley was recognized with the Epke-Meagher Newly Retired Educator Award, a recognition given to educators in the Central Western Zone of New York. He was nominated by former colleague Ian Wienclawski. Bob's long record of community service includes the Pioneer Corps employee service group, along with multiple mission trips to Uganda. A luncheon honoring him and other recipients will be held in Clifton Springs, NY, on Sept. 14, where Bob will be presented with a certificate recognizing his years of outstanding service to the Pioneer district and community.
The next meeting of the Board of Education is Tuesday, Sept. 19.