SPECIAL REPORTS

• Dr. Cathy Hauber, District Superintendent, Monroe One BOCES, and Mrs. Lisa Latten, Penfield Representative, Monroe One BOCES Board of Education, delivered a presentation on the partnership between PCSD and Monroe One BOCES. Of note, Penfield students earned 109 college credits last year through the partnership. This year, 83 Penfield students take classes at the Eastern Monroe Career Center, and more than 40 students are enrolled in specialized programs that meet their complex educational needs. The District also takes advantage of the assistive technology; clinical therapies; behavioral health, deaf education, and vision services, and technology services offered by BOCES.
• George English, director of facilities, presented an annual review of the Department of Transportation. The report provided updates on the 2021 Capital Project, which will be completed by the end of the summer and provided details on each phase of the 2025 Capital Project.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORTS

• Dr. Tasha Potter offered congratulations to Penfield Central School District students and staff who were recognized in the agenda honors.

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT REPORTS

• Ms. LaShara Evans announced the hiring of two new assistant principals; Ms. Linda Dickey will serve as assistant principal of Penfield High School and Dr. Joyce Akwaa will serve as assistant principal at Bay Trail Middle School.
• Dr. Dan Driffill, assistant superintendent for business and finance, delivered an update on the 2026-2027 budget. Budget development next steps include:
  • March 24 – Board will review third budget draft, identify ballot propositions and issue of notice of budget hearing and vote
  • April 1 – New York State legislative budget due
  • April 21 – Board adopts proposed 2026-2027 Budget

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS

• At the High School, the National Honor Society collected nearly 1,600 toothbrushes and 300 tubes of toothpaste to benefit the Belize Dental Program. The items were collected during the sold-out varsity boy's basketball game against Fairport. Students with the Spanish Club organized a Sweetheart Serenade, which raised more than $400 in support of Rochester Hope. 
• Families and students at Cobbles laced up their sneakers to participate in the annual Cobbles Daytona 500. Amid the fun and many, many laps around the gym, this crew broke the school record from 2017. 
• Across the District, activities highlighting Ramadan, Black History Month, and Lunar New Year included read-a-louds, posters, performances, and exhibits, expanding student perspectives and fostering appreciation for different cultures.

BOARD BUSINESS

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda.
• The Board approved the Treasurer’s Report including the Cash Report, General Fund Cash Report, the General Fund Revenue Status Report, General Fund Budget Status Report, School Lunch Fund Cash Report, and School Lunch Fund Revenue and Expense Budget Report for the month ending November 30, 2025.
• The Board approved the Desha’s Law amendment to the Districtwide Safety Plan, which was presented at the January 13, 2026, Board meeting.  
• The Board approved 2021 capital project change orders as presented at the meeting.
• The Board approved awarding contracts for universal pre-kindergarten program services to Bates Rich Beginning Child Care DBA Care A Lot Child Care, Browncroft Daycare Center, LLC, DBA Care A Lot Child Care, Childtime of Penfield, Inspire Penfield/Children’s Continuous Care, and Inspire Pittsford/ Inspire Crayon Campus.
• The Board nominated Mrs. Lisa Latten as a candidate for membership on the Monroe One BOCES Board of Education for a term of office to begin on July 1, 2026, and end on June 30, 2029.

BOARD MEMBER REMARKS 

• Board members and members of the Superintendent’s Cabinet engaged in a brief discussion about the effort to designate schools within Monroe County as “community schools,” noting that the District has been engaging in regional meetings and currently exploring the best path for Penfield.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• Tuesday, March 24 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. 
• Tuesday, April 21 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 5 – Budget Hearing and Regular Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 26 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 9 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Download a .pdf version of the Board Bulletin

SPECIAL REPORTS

• Mike Gala, director of transportation, presented an annual review of the Department of Transportation. One point of pride: The Department undergoes regular inspections by the New York State Department of Transportation and has earned a 100% rating.
• Becca Johnson and Amanda Schantz presented an update from Penfield’s Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA).
  • SEPTA aims to provide services, partnership, and community to families navigating special education needs for their students. Attendance at meetings continues to grow and SEPTA has strengthened its partnerships with building PTAs. Families can connect with SEPTA through penfieldsepta.com, Facebook, and Instagram.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORTS

• Dr. Tasha Potter offered congratulations to Penfield Central School District students and staff who were recognized in the agenda honors.

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT REPORTS

• Dr. Dan Driffill, assistant superintendent for business and finance, gave an in-depth look at the 2026-2027 budget. Of note, the District is looking to purchase 14 new buses (9 large diesel, 5 large gasoline). The total cost is $2,344,170 and will require voter authorization at the May Budget Vote. Budget development next steps include:
  • March 3 – Board will review updated budget draft
  • March 24 – Board will review third budget draft, identify ballot propositions and issue of notice of budget hearing and vote
  • April 1 – New York State legislative budget due
  • April 21 – Board adopts proposed 2026-2027 Budget

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS

• The student representatives highlighted several engaging events and activities that took place at each of the elementary schools, including field trips, concerts, LEGO & STEM Night, and more. The student representatives also share details about assemblies that focused on respect, positive problem-solving, and acknowledged and celebrated Muslim American Heritage Month. 
• Finally, student representatives discussed activities at PHS, including a blood drive hosted by the National Honor Society, the Elective Fair, and PRISM Concert.

BOARD BUSINESS

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda.
• The Board approved the Treasurer’s Report including the Cash Report, General Fund Cash Report, the General Fund Revenue Status Report, General Fund Budget Status Report, School Lunch Fund Cash Report, and School Lunch Fund Revenue and Expense Budget Report for the month ending October 31, 2025.
• The Board approved 2021 capital project change orders as presented at the meeting.
• The Board approved contracts with SEI Design Group Architects and Campus Construction Management Group, Inc. to provide services for the 2025 Innovation and Preservation Capital Improvement Project.
• The Board approved the submission of the tax levy limit of $76,067,287 as calculated in accordance with guidance set forth by the State Comptroller, the Commissioner of Education, and the Commissioner of Taxation and Finance. This tax levy limit represents an increase of 4.33%.
• The Board approved the 2026-2027 School Calendar.  

BOARD MEMBER REMARKS 

• Several Board members reported on the Legislative Breakfast held in early February, which was an opportunity for students, board members, and administrators from across Monroe County to meet with elected officials and advocate for education.
• Board Elections are in May; there are two open seats. Key dates include:
  • Friday, March 6 - Board candidate nominating petitions available
  • Thursday, April 9 – Candidate personal biographical data and statement of qualifications and issues due to the District Clerk
  • Saturday, April 11 – Monroe County School Boards Association Prospective School Board Candidate Seminar
  • Monday, April 20 – Petitions due to the District Clerk (85 signatures of qualified voters are needed on the petition)
  • Monday, May 4 – Meet the Candidates Night
  • Tuesday, May 19 – Election and Budget Vote

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• Tuesday, March 3 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 24 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Download a .pdf version of the Board Bulletin

SPECIAL REPORT 

• Ted Wilson, safety and security coordinator, presented amendments to the DistrictWide School Safety Plan and Building Level Emergency Plans to reflect Penfield’s new Cardiac Emergency Response Plan.
• The plan is aligned with Desha’s Law, New York State legislation that requires all New York State schools to incorporate a cardiac emergency response plan into their school safety plan.
• Components of the Cardiac Emergency Response Plan include:
  • Venue-specific procedures for responding to sudden cardiac arrest, or similar life-threatening emergencies, on any school site or at any location of a school event, including but not limited to athletics.
  • The use of appropriate personnel to respond to any such emergency and the integration of nationally recognized, evidence-based core elements, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association.
  • Annual safety training for school staff must now include a component on recognizing and responding to sudden cardiac arrest, in addition to components regarding violence prevention and mental health.
  • Voluntary training to relevant staff regarding sudden cardiac arrest, including CPR, use of an AED, and first aid.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORTS 

• Dr. Tasha Potter offered congratulations to Penfield Central School District students and staff who were recognized in the agenda honors.

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT REPORTS

• LaShara Evans, assistant superintendent for human resources, announced the retirement of Scott Hirschler, principal of Scribner Road Elementary School, at the end of this school year. For the remainder of the academic year, Sheonaid Vanderzwan will serve as acting principal of Scribner and Hirschler will serve as a principal on special assignment. Will Kaufman will transfer to Scribner to serve in the assistant principal role.
• Dr. Dan Driffill, assistant superintendent for business and finance, gave a brief overview of actions needed to be taken by the Board, including approval of 2021 capital project change orders, 2026-2027 Budget Development Goals, Guidelines, and Factors, as well audit reports, the service contract for graduation at the Rochester Institute of Technology, and the 2025 capital project bond resolution.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS 

• The student representatives shared details about the many ways Penfield schools celebrated the holiday season, including musical performances, festive activities, and food and toy drives to benefit members of the community.
• The student representatives also highlighted faculty members who engaged in professional development, attending and speaking at conferences across the country.
• Finally, student representatives discussed efforts by PHS’s Student Advisory Committee and Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council to make positive changes within the school.

BOARD BUSINESS

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda.
• The Board approved the Treasurer’s Report including the Cash Report, General Fund Cash Report, the General Fund Revenue Status Report, General Fund Budget Status Report, School Lunch Fund Cash Report, and School Lunch Fund Revenue and Expense Budget Report for the month ending September 30, 2025.
• The Board approved 2021 capital project change orders as presented at the meeting.
• The Board approved the 2026-27 Budget Goals, Guidelines, and Factors.
• The Board approved the Extraclassroom Activities Financial Report and Single Audit Report, both for the year ending June 30, 2025. 
• The Board approved the Facility Use and Service Contract with the Rochester Institute of Technology for Penfield High School’s Graduation Ceremony.
• The Board approved the 2025 capital project bond resolution. 
• The Board approved several Policy 6410, Policy 6411, Policy 6480, and Policy 7314 as presented at the December 9, 2025 Board of Education meeting.

BOARD MEMBER REMARKS 

• Board members Susan Gilbert-Collins and Dr. Scott Wilson shared brief updates from the Monroe County School Boards Association and the District’s Health, Safety, and Wellness Committee.

UPCOMING MEETINGS 

• Tuesday, Feb. 10 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 3 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Download a .pdf version of the Board Bulletin

SPECIAL REPORTS

• Tracey Savine, principal of Bay Trail Middle School, delivered a presentation on the development of the first-event Bay Trail Course Selection Guide. She also discussed the shift from house teams to grade-level teams, beginning fall 2026.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORTS

• Dr. Tasha Potter offered congratulations to Penfield Central School District students and staff who were recognized in the agenda honors.

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT REPORTS

• Ms. LaShara Evans, assistant superintendent for human resources, announced that Penfield Central School District participated in Teacher Recruitment Day on Friday, March 20. 
• Dr. Dan Driffill, assistant superintendent for business and finance, delivered an update on the 2026-2027 budget. Budget next steps include:
  • April 21 – Board adopts proposed 2026-2027 Budget
  • April 28 – Budget documents posted online and available in buildings
  • May 4 – Meet the Board of Education Candidates Night
  • May 5 – Annual Budget Hearing
  • May 19 – Budget and Board of Education Elections. Residents will vote on the 2026-2027 operating budget, the purchase of 14 buses from the 2024 capital reserve, and elect two members of the Board of Elections.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS
During this Board meeting, the student representatives talked about their experiences in Penfield, highlighting their interests and pathways while sharing what it truly feels like to learn and grow in the District.

• Giuliana is a sophomore harpist in the symphony and chamber orchestras who uses her musical discipline to excel in and out of the classroom. She is currently working toward her Girl Scout Gold Award, advocating for eating disorder awareness and mental health support within the school community.
• Aidan is a senior who has embraced exceptional academic rigor by completing 10 AP courses and advanced mathematics during his time at Penfield High School. He serves as the National Honor Society president and has shown remarkable independence in navigating his unique educational path.
• Liam is a junior involved in everything from DECA to Esports who credits his early teachers at Harris Hill and Bay Trail for sparking his creative persistence. As a member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, he provides invaluable insight into how the District can Lyla is a junior and varsity soccer captain who successfully balances national athletic travel with her commitment to excellence in her studies. She is a dedicated leader who appreciates the supportive environment Penfield teachers provide to help her chase her Division I collegiate goals.

BOARD BUSINESS

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda.
• The Board accepted recommendations from several committees and approved bids from several suppliers and service providers.
• The Board approved the appointments of Melissa Greco Lopes as District Clerk Pro Tem, Kelley Darling as Census Enumerator, and Sheonaid Vanderzwan as the Scribner Road Elementary representative. The Board also appointed Sheena Conway, Katya Damaske, and LaShara Evans to the District’s Professional Development Committee and certified that Sheonaid Vanderzwan is now among the qualified lead evaluators of teachers.    
• The Board approved the public notice of the Annual Budget Presentation and Budget Vote and Election.
• The Board approved change orders for Athletics and construction projects.
• The Board approved that the firm Bernard P. Donegan, Inc., has been designated as the Municipal Advisor to the Penfield Central School District.
• The Board approved the 2026-27 Bay Trail Course Description Guide as presented.

BOARD MEMBER REMARKS 

• Board members and members of the Superintendent’s Cabinet engaged in a discussion about the Monroe County School Boards Association as well as District community committee meetings.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• Tuesday, April 21 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 5 – Budget Hearing and Regular Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 26 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 9 – Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
   

Download a .pdf version of the Board Bulletin