The Sidney Central School District was honored during its monthly Board of Education meeting Tuesday by the New York State School Boards Association.
NYSSBA recently initiated a program called “Champions of Change for Kids,” which gives the organization a chance to recognize districts for meritorious programs and projects throughout the state.
Specifically, NYSSBA is recognizing the district for its partnership with The Raymond Corporation, and the Raymond Welding Production Center, which opened last school year. The center helps students prepare for careers in welding.
“We are extremely grateful that NYSSBA has honored our district and this program,” Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock said. “Our partnership with Raymond continues to grow and blossom and we are very proud of how far we’ve come and are excited for the future.”
NYSSBA representative Brian LaTourette, the Area 8 Director, presented the district with a banner to be displayed at the school. Representatives from The Raymond Corporation on hand were Welding Operations Manager Jim Cirigliano and Dan Quiter, a welding trainer.
“We congratulate Sidney on receiving this prestigious recognition for their support and collaboration in the Raymond Welding Skills Development Program,” said Tony Topencik, director of operations at Raymond. “It’s an honor to be part of a program which educates the next generation of welders. By learning continuous improvement principles and advanced technical skills, we are confident that these students will succeed in their future careers.”
During the meeting, a project also was on display. During the holidays, Raymond offered a unique opportunity for students to create a fabricated piece to accompany the Raymond tree display at the Roberson Museum in Binghamton.
Seven Sidney students accepted the challenge and worked together to create a large present. With attention to detail, the group made a life-like box, adorned with Sidney Central School and Raymond on the sides via ornaments.
The students who took part are: Sydne Clupper, Ryan Cole, Tucker Reynolds Ives, Brandon Kane, Donald Ryder, Cameron Sawdy, and Michael Thiel.
“I am extremely proud of the partnership between the Sidney Central School District and The Raymond Corporation” said Sidney Central School District Board of Education President Kerri Green. “The relationship between our school and an innovative company like The Raymond Corporation shows that not only is there a place for school-business collaboration, but that we are changing the lives of our students by giving them real-life skills and real employment opportunities in our workforce.
“At a time when we struggle to keep and attract youth to our area, what better way than to give them the resources and training necessary to offer them an experience that will change their life,” she continued. “I hope to see future collaborations like this one with other businesses and industries from our area. Thank you to NYSSBA for recognizing us for this program and to everyone who helped bring it to fruition.”
The holiday display will remain at the Sidney Central School District.
For a gallery of photos from the BOE meeting, please see below.