The eighth graders at the Highland Middle School had a chance to learn about fire safety, science and civic engagement on an October field trip to the Highland Fire House. Coordinated by Kevin Rizzo, a biology teacher at Highland Middle School, and Director of Facilities and Highland Fire Chief Peter Miller, 140 eighth grade students toured the firehouse, got to carry fire hoses and axes, learned hands free CPR, and participated in a maze.
The Highland Firehouse, like most volunteer organizations, struggles recruiting and retaining volunteers. Chief Miller stressed the importance of having pride in your community, and working to make the community a safer place. The Highland Hose Company No. 1, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, accepts individuals starting at age 16. Though their cadet program, high school volunteers not only help their communities, but may be eligible for scholarships. The Highland Hose Company currently has three high school volunteers.

Students of the Month for January 2020
The first Highland Central School District Students of the Month for 2020 were recognized by the Board of Education at the January 14th meeting. From Highland Elementary School, Niahmias Mendoza, a third grade student, was honored as student of the month. Niahmias’ daily goal is to be happy, and make those around him happy. Besides being a great friend to his peers, Niahmias also had the honor of being the first student to be introduced to the new assistant principal for Highland Elementary Matthew Darling. Darling joined the faculty of Highland Elementary School on January 6th.
Dominick Willis, a resourceful and caring student, was named Highland Middle School’s Student of the Month. Dominick is known for motivating his peers by holding them to a higher standard. His positive attitude makes him a great addition to the Highland Middle School community.

Finally, ninth grader Jonathan Rhodes-Bloomer was honored as the student of the month at Highland High School. Also known as Johnny B, Jonathan is described as bright, caring, funny and hardworking. Assistant Principal Ryan Judge stated how excited he was to spend the upcoming years with Jonathan. Congratulations to all!!

Ulster BOCES Attends the Board of Education Meeting
Ulster County BOCES is an important partner to the Highland Central School district, providing alternative educational experiences and other services to the district’s students. BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Charles V. Khoury provided an update on those services and the organization’s relationship with Highland to the Board of Education. According to Khoury, Ulster BOCES continues to expand its programs, giving greater attention to employment skills, leadership and community engagement. However, one of the biggest struggles Ulster BOCES faces is a lack of space. This lack of classroom space results in students being diverted to BOCES programs in other counties, resulting in a loss of revenue for Ulster and longer commutes for students.
Highland students that participate in BOCES programs spoke to the Board members about their experiences. Brook Harris, who is in the aviation and drone science program, will be attending college outside of Chicago with a head start on becoming a commercial pilot. Students who have participated in workplace challenges described how solving problems presented by local businesses has lead to paid internships. With honor societies and clubs available to students, those that participate in Ulster BOCES programs are able to gain confidence and make a difference in their communities.

Plans for a Possible 2021 Capital Project Vote

District voters may see a new Capital Budget project on the ballet in 2021. With the district’s debt decreasing, and with a high number of facilities in need of maintenance, the Highland Central School district will begin prioritizing projects to be covered under a proposed $7.7 million capital project. Currently, the district will be starting construction on the projects included in an $8 million capital project approved by voters in 2018. The proposed 2021 capital project will come at no increased cost to taxpayers. If approved in 2021, construction would would most likely begin in spring 2023. More details on the proposed 2021 capital project will be presented at a future Board of Education meetings.
The next meeting of the Highland Central School District Board of Education will be held on February 11 at Highland High School. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m.