Voters passed the Byram Hills Central School District’s 2024-2025 budget and the use of capital reserve funds for the Lights, Learning, Action! renovation project at Byram Hills High School.

The budget passed with 1,018 yes to 161 no votes and the capital project was passed with  1,018 yes to #162 no votes in the May 21, 2024 election.

The $103,464,726 budget reflects a budget-to-budget increase of 3.75% and a 3.28% increase in the tax levy. The budget remains within the tax cap while maintaining class size guidelines, all academic programs that have supported student success, all athletic and extracurricular programs and all transportation services.

Voters also passed a proposition that allows the District to use $8 million from the Capital Reserve Fund for Lights, Learning, Action! The multiyear renovation project at the high school would create The Learning Commons, a reconstruction of the library, hallway and lecture hall; install a turf field; and add lighting on all fields and courts. 

“Thank you to our school community voters for passing the 2024-2025 school budget and for supporting the renovation project at Byram Hills High School,” Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia said.

“The budget, which is within the tax levy limit, will allow for continued high-quality education and programs for all students,” she said. “The renovation project will create the 21st-century learning spaces that our students need and deserve. The enhancements to our athletic facilities will extend field usage and provide opportunities for exciting evening events. We are grateful for the continued support of our wonderful community.”

Incumbent trustees Scott Levy and Petrie Verma were elected to the Board of Education for three-year terms.

Board of Education vote totals:

Scott Levy - 1,003
Petri Verma - 816 
Diana Barrera Torre - 352
Write in - 15

Hundreds of students from across the Byram Hills Central School District came together at Byram Hills High School for the Districtwide Music Festivals, three days of music-making, community and inspiration.

Fifth graders from Wampus Elementary School and eighth graders from H.C. Crittenden Middle School traveled to the high school to work with students and faculty in three half-day sessions, one each for students in band, orchestra and chorus. The students rehearsed with each other and after just several hours of working together, they performed a high-caliber final piece.

“The energy was palpable at the festivals,” said Marc Beja, the Director of Fine Arts. “The students were having a really great time with one other, and the younger students got a kick out of playing alongside the high school students. The culminating performances were fantastic.”

The festivals gave younger students a taste of what their musical career could look like at the high school and strengthened the Byram Hills music community by allowing students in different grades to learn and play together. 

“To have high school students sitting among fifth and eighth graders and being able to help them out and talk with them is truly inspirational,” Mr. Beja said. “The younger students get so excited to learn from the older kids.”

There is also a benefit to playing together in large numbers. There were more than 100 students at each festival, and it was helpful for the younger students to hear a more mature sound and exciting to be part of a large, districtwide ensemble.

“The festivals were a great way for our music students to show off what they’ve learned, to blend their talents with students from the other schools and for the younger students to see what’s coming up for them and for the high school students to reflect on their journey,” Mr. Beja said.

The first festival, for the orchestra students, was on Feb. 14. The high school students held a question and answer session with the younger students. Together, they all performed “Viking,” by Soon Hee Newbold, a composer who visited Byram Hills in 2021.

The chorus festival on Feb. 15 included the eighth graders and high school students singing fun pop songs as they got to know one another. The final performance was “Oye” by Jim Papoulis.

At the band festival on Feb. 16, students in each instrument group played a piece together, and all of the band students performed “Alpha Squadron,” “Duel of the Fates,” and “Let’s Go Band.”
Decked out in their Byram Hills Music T-shirts, the students enjoyed the festivals, which included a community pizza lunch. 

An eighth grader, Sean, said his favorite part of the band festival was “working with fifth graders and high schoolers to get different perspectives on how different things get played.”

Charlie, a fifth grader, remembered sitting next to students from the middle school and high school at the band festival. “They were teaching me and playing with everybody in a big group and it was really fun,” he said.

Ninth grader Darby noted the fifth graders’ joy and excitement at the chorus festival and the great amount of effort they put into their performance. “That group was very into it and really trying their best and they looked like they were having so much fun and they sounded fantastic,” she said. “It just made me really happy and I hope all ensembles can be like that.” 

Victoria, a fifth grader who attended the orchestra festival, said: “I thought it was really cool seeing how the grades that are higher than me play and how much better they are and how much more they learned. I thought the high schoolers played really gentle and really cool. I’m just imagining myself if I get to that stage and then I’m playing like that. I think that would be really cool.”

The Fine Arts Department is grateful to the PTSA for co-sponsoring the festivals.

The Byram Hills Central School District’s 2023-24 budget was approved by the community on May 16 by a vote of 355 to 61.

The $99,725,037 budget reflects a budget-to-budget increase of 2.87% and a 1.93% increase in the tax levy.

The budget supports all programs and services that support student success, maintains all academic, athletic and extracurricular programs, and enables the District to continue to develop new initiatives in a fiscally responsible way that enhances the Byram Hills student experience. 

“Thank you to our voters for your support of our schools!” Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia said.

Two incumbent Board of Education members, Lori Kanner and Lara Stangel, were reelected to three-year terms. 

“Thank you to Lara Stangel, current Board of Education President, and Lori Kanner, current Board of Education Vice President, for their continued service to our school community.” Dr. Lamia said.

Board of Education vote totals:

Lara Stangel - 367
Lori Kanner - 362
Write in - 7

Students from around the Byram Hills Central School District came together to celebrate their love of music at the All-District Music Festivals, which were bursting with inspiration, community and beautiful music.

With eighth graders from H.C. Crittenden Middle School and fifth graders from Wampus Elementary School working with high school students and the music faculty at Byram Hills High School, the festivals were an enriching experience for everyone involved.

They gave the younger students a chance to see the kind of musical experiences that await them and provided high schoolers with an opportunity to reflect on how far they’ve come.

“The All-District Music Festivals were wonderful celebrations of musical achievement across grade levels and musical ensembles,” said Pete Pauliks, the Director of Fine Arts. “These powerful days of music-making and community-building were an amazing way for our students to come together to share their passion for music.”

Students got to know each other through team-building activities, attended workshops and rehearsals and gave terrific final performances together.
 

District String Festival

The District String Festival was held on Feb. 3. It featured performances by the fifth grade orchestra, the eighth grade orchestra and the high school orchestra, a question-and-answer session, rehearsals and a final performance of “First Scale March” and “Dragonhunter.”

“It was really powerful to see all of the students working together,” said Aaron Lockwood, the high school orchestra director. “High schoolers were paired with fifth graders and eighth graders were paired with fifth graders, so there was a mix at each stand. It was incredible to see.”

Ken Pearson, the Wampus orchestra teacher, said: “It went fabulously well. The sound was magnificent. It was such a joy.” 

The HCC orchestra teacher, Adelle St. Onge, said the event was inspirational.

“At the middle school level, not only are they being inspired by the high school, but they can also see how they inspire students younger than them and see how far they’ve come and how far they can continue to go,” she said.

Eighth grader Asiya Nur Karim enjoyed the festival. “It was really nice to see the high schoolers play because then I get to see where I’m going to go next.”
 

District Choral Festival

The daylong District Choral Festival took place on Feb. 13. The students began by getting to know each other and singing popular songs by artists they love.

“It was a really awesome day,” said Kyle Banks, the high school choir director. “We did a really big, full group warmup and there’s nothing like the sound of 200-plus kids singing at the same time.” 

The students performed for each other and attended workshops and rehearsals that were grouped by section. In the afternoon, they came together for a full rehearsal and moving performance of “Sisi Ni Moja.”

“Conducting this piece was really, really awesome, seeing all three levels,” said Kate Smith, HCC’s choral director. “Seeing my students, especially, knowing that they’re learning about what they can do when they are at the high school level was really fun too.”

Dana Celestino, the Wampus chorus teacher, said a highlight was the students coming together to make music.

“Music is something that connects everybody,” she said. “It’s so powerful to hear all 200-plus of the students singing and working together to make this one product. It was really special and really powerful. That’s part of the spirit of being in a musical ensemble and of being in Byram Hills because that’s what we value - collaboration, community, working together and having a really fun day.”  

The students from all three schools took a break from singing and sat on the stage, where many passed the microphone and shared what being in chorus meant to them. They talked about making good friends and finding community, having fun and experiencing joy, feeling supported and singing and learning new techniques and skills.

“It’s a place where I can be myself and be with the people who have the same passion as me and who enjoy the same things as me,” one student said. “What I love about chorus is that I have some of my best friends in this class. It just has been a place where I can enjoy myself and be happy and not have the stress of all my other classes.”


District Band Festival

In March, members of the fifth grade band and eighth grade band made separate trips to the high school for a District Band Festival. Both groups of players had the chance to meet the high school musicians, rehearse with them and perform.

Byram Hills High School band director Andrew Hill said it was great for the younger students to see what band at the high school is like, and for the high schoolers to gain inspiration by reflecting on their time in the earlier grades and thinking about how much they’ve learned. 

“It really is a great experience and learning process for every student involved at the high school, the fifth grade and the eighth grade,” Mr. Hill said.

HCC band director William Petito said the eighth grade festival on March 9 was a wonderful day. “It was really amazing to see the middle schoolers try on a bigger pair of shoes, so to speak,” he said.

Wampus band director David Wolfe said his students, who visited the high school on March 20, were excited to attend and see what kind of playing is possible in high school. “When you play on a high school stage, it’s almost like being in the big leagues,” he said. Mr. Wolfe also the high schoolers took the fifth graders under their wing. “There was a connection I felt between the high schoolers and my kids, and I appreciated that.”

The fifth and eighth graders enjoyed seeing what playing in the high school band will be like and can sound like.

Fifth grader Sidney Van Anden said he liked playing with and getting to know the high school musicians. “I really enjoyed playing with everybody and I hope I play until high school and stick with it.”

Thank You BHEF

The District is grateful to the Byram Hills Educational Foundation for sponsoring the festivals. The BHEF support allowed for the purchase of new recording equipment for each school and provided each student with a music festival T-shirt and a shared community lunch.


CLICK HERE to view all performances and showcases.
 

The talent, creativity and self-expression of students in sixth through 12th grade was on display at the Byram Hills Winter Art Show, which featured pieces in a wide range of artistic mediums.

Displayed in a gallery-like space at Byram Hills High School on Jan. 11 and 12, the show featured artwork including landscape paintings, pencil drawings, sculpture, metalsmithing, photographs and graphic design. The show is a culmination of students’ work and skill development so far this school year.

“The variety of work by our student artists at the Winter Art Show was fantastic and there was so much great art to admire,” said Pete Pauliks, Director of Fine Arts. “It was wonderful to see the development of our young artists from middle school to high school. Our teachers are deeply creative and bring out the best in all of our students.”

On the evening of Jan. 11, students, families, and faculty gathered for a well-attended community reception, where students proudly showed off their work, posed for photos with their art and discussed their process. The event gave families the opportunity to talk with the art teachers and create connections and conversation around student art.

“Art really does help students discover things about themselves and having their work on display is a very special experience,” Mr. Pauliks said. “Students have labored over their pieces, so it was special for them to be able to share it with their friends, families and the community.”

For middle school students, the show provides a glimpse into what is possible in high school art classes; for high schoolers, it is a chance to look back and reflect on their progress. 

The show also brings the Byram Hills art community together to give student artists a look at what their peers are doing in their art classes, which can provide creative inspiration.

Byram Hills art teacher David McMichael brought his Graphic Design II students to the show and asked them to find a piece that suggested an interesting theme. His students were preparing to apply to AP Graphic Design and needed to think about creating art that fits within a theme.

“They gain a lot of visual ideas,” he said of attending the art show. “They see what their peers are doing and they get inspired to make art. That’s what’s really great about it.”
 
One of his students, junior Andrew Petlyuk, noted the various themes he saw, including fantasy and nature, that gave him ideas for future artwork.

“You can find the same theme in a graphic design piece or a studio art piece,” he said. “You can appreciate both because the different mediums make them so unique even though they have the same theme.”

“A lot of the artworks are really well made and well executed,” he added.

Joanna Bergelson, an art teacher at H.C. Crittenden Middle School, said the show is a wonderful opportunity for middle schoolers to see their artwork as part of the continuum of the Byram Hills visual arts program.

“By seeing their work on display in this more formal setting, I think H.C.C. students feel not only a sense of pride but also the sense of wonder and magic that art creates in this dedicated space,” she said. “Additionally, by attending the reception, the H.C.C. artists see the incredible opportunities that await them in high school.”

The Fine Arts Department is grateful to the administration, community and families for their continued support of the arts program.

 

The Byram Hills Central School District’s 2022-2023 budget was passed by the community on May 17 by a vote of 1,039 to 211.

The $96,939,312 budget reflects a budget-to-budget increase of 1.78% and a 1.84% increase in the tax levy, which is $560,365 below the tax levy limit.

“Thank you Byram Hills for supporting our school budget for the upcoming school year,” said Superintendent Jen Lamia. 

“This budget supports all programs that promote student success,” she added. “It maintains all academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs. It also enables the District to continue to develop new initiatives in a fiscally prudent manner that will enhance the Byram Hills student experience.”

The Byram Hills Board of Education had four open seats to fill - three for a three-year term and one for a one-year term. The three candidates with the most votes, Mia DiPietro, Jason Berland, and Melissa Jacobs, were elected to three-year terms. Lara Stangel was elected to fill the one-year term.

Board of Education trustee vote totals:

Mia DiPietro: 944
Jason Berland: 841
Melissa Jacobs: 786
Lara Stangel: 772
Scott Meyer: 499
Danielle Orellana: 442
Tiziana Didonna: 352

 

As they rehearsed a selection for their upcoming winter concert, student musicians at Byram Hills High School and H.C. Crittenden Middle School were led by an inspiring guest conductor with unmatched credentials: the very composer who wrote the music.  

Soon Hee Newbold, a California-based symphonic composer-conductor and musician who has played all over the world, spent Dec. 2 working with Byram Hills string musicians thanks to a Byram Hills PTSA Cultural Enrichment Grant. 

Ms. Newbold rehearsed with the String Orchestra at the high school in the morning and spent the afternoon at the middle school, where she worked with the Grade 7 Orchestra and the Grade 8 Chamber Players. About 80 students in all participated.

“I enjoyed every second of it,” Ms. Newbold said at the end of the day. “It’s always rejuvenating and always really inspiring for us as writers to come and see the feedback that you get from the students and to see new talent coming up.”

Each session began with students playing her work, “Orion and the Scorpion” at the high school and “Viking” at the middle school. She worked with students, going line by line through the music and giving feedback on the different parts.

In the morning, Ms. Newbold explained her inspiration for the energetic and epic “Orion and the Scorpion,” which was partly from Greek mythology, but also from her love of space exploration and the birth of stars. “Very nice, very spacelike,” she said at one point as they rehearsed. “I feel like I’m in a cluster of stars now.”  

The high school players did a great job, she said.

“You can tell from the amount of work and from the caliber and from the preparation that they’ve done, that they’ve put a lot of thought and a lot of work into it already,” Ms. Newbold said. “That means a lot to me as a musician.”

At H.C. Crittenden Middle School, Ms. Newbold talked to students about the history of Vikings, and explained that she drew inspiration for the piece from her Swedish grandfather, who was descended from Erik the Red.

“When you think of Vikings, what do you think of?” she asked, and heard answers including “brave,” warriors” and “aggressive.” “Those are really good words. Utilize that when you’re playing.”  

Of the seventh and eighth graders, Ms. Newbold said: “What was really great about them was their energy and they just really enjoyed playing the music and they learned so fast. It’s really impressive.”

In addition to her music career, Ms. Newbold is also a filmmaker and a reserve officer with the Burbank, California, Police Department. The multitalented Ms. Newbold, who began playing piano at age 5 and also plays the violin and viola professionally, autographed the “Viking” sheet music for middle school musicians. 

Students enjoyed meeting her and learning about her life and work. 

“It was pretty cool because her vision of this piece was really different from what we imagined it would be,” said Byram Hills High School sophomore Grace Lin, who plays the violin. “Now it’s less of a battle and more about exploring the stars, so I think I approach it differently now.”

Margaret Pollack, also a sophomore who plays the violin, said: “It was nice to hear from the person directly because you can see what their intentions were. It was informative to see what she was trying to do.”

Seventh grader Stephen Lombardi, who plays the string bass, said it was “surreal” to meet the composer of “Viking,” and said practicing with Ms. Newbold will help his playing. “This is probably a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed it.”

Collaborating with Ms. Newbold to learn and incorporate new ideas about her interpretation of the music will help students with their upcoming performances, said Aaron Lockwood, the high school’s Orchestra Director. “This authentic experience of working with a live composer was invaluable for our students,” he said.

The District’s Director of Fine Arts, Pete Pauliks, commended Mr. Lockwood and middle school Orchestra Director Adelle St. Onge for coordinating such a valuable experience for the students.

“Soon Hee Newbold's visit provided students with a unique opportunity to work alongside a professional composer and artist,” he said. “After learning about Ms. Newbold's background and studying her music, it is easy to see why she has become a favorite among young musicians.”

While the students were inspired by Ms. Newbold, she too gained inspiration from the students: “I definitely get inspired when I see them excited about music.”

Praising his dedication to public education, the Byram Hills Central School District honored its longest serving Board of Education member, Ira Schulman, who is stepping down after 23 years to become the North Castle town justice.

At Tuesday night’s board meeting, Board of Education President Scott Levy and Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia paid tribute to Mr. Schulman, who will begin his new role on Jan. 1.

Mr. Schulman, who served as board president eight times, shepherded Byram Hills through many important issues. He helped the District in the aftermath of Sept. 11, through budget challenges, changing enrollments, state mandates and most recently, the global pandemic.

“We were really blessed to have someone like Ira with so much experience and insight to help guide us along the way,” Mr. Levy said.

Dr. Lamia hailed Mr. Schulman for creating a culture of excellence at Byram Hills. 

“You’ve supported the most innovative programs, you’ve embraced community partners and other stakeholders and you continue to be a responsible and revered custodian of Byram Hills,” she said. “The Byram Hills District and your Board of Education are so proud to celebrate you today. We’re grateful to you, Ira, for your service to children and to public education.”

“We will miss your guidance, your compassion and your dedication,” she added. “Mostly, we’ll miss you, and we will not forget what you have done.”

Mr. Schulman leaves Byram Hills stronger than when he first joined the board.

“I hope that you’re an inspiration for all of our students because it’s an example of how an individual, through many years of distinguished public service, can add so much value to an institution that they love,” Mr. Levy said. “We will sincerely miss you, but wish you all the best in your new position as town judge.”

Dr. Lamia credited Mr. Schulman with helping to make sure that Byram Hills hired the very best teachers while remaining fiscally responsible, for creating expectations for a rigorous curriculum and for helping the District create an approach to cultural proficiency. She noted that he is a tremendous supporter of the Byram Hills athletics program and was honored by the Armonk Chamber of Commerce as its Citizen of the Year in 2019.

“Your level of passion 20 years ago as a board member is exactly the same as it is today,” she said. “You care about supporting public schools for the benefit of all children.”
 
Mr. Schulman, who received a standing ovation, was touched by the tributes. 

“The past 23 years have just meant the world to me,” he said. “To serve this Board of Education, this school district as a board member, eight terms as board president, has just been one of the true joys of my life.”

Mr. Schulman and his wife, Betty, have lived in the Byram Hills district for 35 years and their children graduated from the Byram Hills schools. He expressed his love of the District and said he’ll continue to cheer for Byram. 

“I do love this District, the education, the athletics, the fine arts, the music, the drama, the science research,” he said. “Everything about it, to me, is what makes not only this school district, but this country, great.”

Mr. Schulman was presented with a plaque honoring his service, and Dr. Lamia read the card from the entire District, which said: “Thank you for your selfless support of our students, staff, families and public education. Thank you for helping to make Byram Hills a place we’re all proud to be a part of. Your legacy will live in each of us.”

“Thank you so much for this honor,” Mr. Schulman said. “I hope I'm worthy of it in your eyes. That I am makes me feel all the better. Thank you so very much.”

At its January meeting, the board will discuss whether to leave the board seat vacant, fill it through an interim appointment or to hold a special election.
 

Byram Hills High School is celebrating the Girls Varsity Tennis Team for capturing the 2021 New York State team championship on Friday at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, capping an unforgettable undefeated season.

The team earned a resounding 5-0 victory over Friends Academy to be crowned the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division 2 state champions. 

“We have an incredible group of players and I’m just so proud that we were able to accomplish this historic moment in Byram Hills history,” Bobcats coach Mike Racanelli said. “What a special memory for our team, our school and the entire community.”

The win gave Byram Hills its third team state championship and first girls team state title in the school’s 55-year history.

“I am so happy for all of the girls on the team,” Byram Hills Principal Christopher Walsh said. “What a great accomplishment to be known as New York State champions! Their team will forever be remembered by future athletes at Byram Hills High School. Years from now, they'll be able to look back and take pride in knowing that they were the first female team in our history to win a state championship. They are so deserving of all of the praise and recognition they are receiving.”

This was the first year the NYSPHSAA held a team championship event for tennis.

“Congratulations to our Girls Varsity Tennis Team,” said Rob Castagna, the Byram Hills Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. “Bringing home the first girls state title for Byram Hills and winning this first event of its kind is a tremendous accomplishment and the entire school community is so incredibly proud.”

The team had a remarkable season, winning the Section 1 championship and then the regional championship to advance to the state tournament. The team finished the season with a 22-0 record.

Hard work was the key to the team’s success.

“There is no secret recipe,” Coach Racanelli said. “We had a group of players who were willing to work really hard and set high expectations for themselves. When you play with your heart and stick together, great things can happen.”

Three members of the team also fared well in the singles and doubles state championships in late October. Alyssa Margolin, the Section 1 singles champ, won third in singles and Chloe Bernstein and Jenna Kleynerman captured third in the doubles event.

As the team returned to the high school Friday evening from the tennis center in Queens, the girls were honored with an escort from the Armonk Police and Fire departments and they were greeted by about 100 cheering parents, students, coaches, faculty and staff members. 

The team captains are Alyssa Margolin, Sydney Levy, Eva Shrayer and Chloe Siegle. The roster also includes: Lily Anchin, Chloe Bernstein, Daphne Bernstein, Jordyn Bernstein, Allie Cooper, Elizabeth Deeks, Rebecca Geller, Jenna Kleynerman, Kate Levy, Julia Lucchino, Justine Maresco, Lila Raff, Skye Smith, Ari Tabankin and Abby Yallof.

The team became the third in Byram Hills history to win a state title. The others were Boys Soccer in 2007 and Boys Baseball in 2015. 

The team will be celebrated at a parade Sunday morning in Armonk that steps off from H.C. Crittenden Middle School at 10 a.m. and will proceed around Wampus Pond, then up Main Street to the North Castle Town Hall for a reception.




 

The Byram Hills Central School District was brimming with Bobcat spirit last week as the school community celebrated Homecoming Week.

“We had a terrific week with an abundance of school pride and community support,” said Rob Castagna, the Byram Hills Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics.

Homecoming Week, which ran from Sept. 27 to Oct. 3, began early Monday morning as team captains and cheerleaders from Byram Hills High School embarked on the traveling pep rally. 

The high schoolers lined the entryways at H.C. Crittenden Middle School, Wampus Elementary School and Coman Hill Elementary School to greet the younger students as they arrived at school. The athletes and cheerleaders clapped, cheered and waved, with cries of “Go Byram” and “Let’s go Byram” ringing out.

It was also Spirit Week at Byram Hills High School, with students dressing up for fun theme days. There was pajama day, Hawaiian day, neon day, color day and Friday was Bobcat Pride Day. Students in the lower schools donned their blue and red on Friday as well.

The athletic program had a busy week, with varsity home games under the lights each night from Tuesday through Saturday and home games for the non-field sports as well. The community turned out with fervent support for the Bobcats. This year featured more games during homecoming, especially for the junior varsity teams. 

The high school pep rally, a beloved annual tradition, took place on the turf field Friday afternoon. Students cheered each other on as they competed by grade level against faculty members in spirited games of balloon pop, pass the hula hoop and the toilet paper mummy wrap. The concert choir sang a beautiful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” to open the event and the Byram Band added to the festivities with favorites like “Sweet Caroline.”

Hours after the pep rally came Friday Night Lights, as the varsity football team took to the field in front of a cheering crowd, and the band played as well.

During homecoming, the high school celebrated senior Alyssa Margolin of varsity girls tennis for winning the prestigious Con Edison Scholastic Sports Weekly Award.

“To receive this award during homecoming is extra special for Alyssa, our tennis team and for our athletic program,” Mr. Castagna said. “It is a great honor and we are proud of her accomplishments.”

Homecoming Week concluded with the Byram Hills Education Foundation’s outdoor family movie night on Sunday on the high school’s turf field. More than 200 families attended along with dozens of high school athletes who played games with the younger students from all of the schools before the movie began. The showing of the sports comedy “The Sandlot” was a fitting end to the festivities.

“We were so happy to celebrate Homecoming Week at Byram Hills,” Byram Hills High School Principal Christopher Walsh said. “I know our students enjoyed coming together as a community to show their Bobcat spirit and pride.”


 

The pandemic changed the approach to almost every aspect of school for staff and students. Instruction, attendance, grading, the role of technology, and human connections were evaluated and re-evaluated. Due to the stringent return-to-school protocols and procedures, set by the District, Byram Hills was back in school at the start of the 2020-21 school year.

Grades K-6 were in the buildings full-time, and students were thriving in the classroom environment. They had crates for their belongings, protective desk shields, handwashing and sanitizer stations, upgraded air filtration systems, and much more. Students and staff adjusted quickly and upheld protocols each day. Grades 7-12 experienced hybrid learning - in school two days a week, alternating Wednesdays, and remotely for two days. Hybrid learning kept the number of students at half capacity each day, allowing for social distancing, until it was increased to 70% capacity later in the year.

Every building was transformed to create socially distanced learning spaces. Schools opened movable walls between classrooms while gymnasiums, music, and art rooms were restructured as educational spaces. “Our room was the library, which was cool because our whole class could be together,” said grade 5 student Maxwell DeLuca. In addition, the Byram Hills Education Foundation generously provided ViewSonic monitors to every teacher in the District, allowing interactive lessons for remote and in-person learning. “I got used to working on my chrome book and with the Promethean board very quickly. I think it was easier to do everything through google classroom, and I liked all the new technology,” said grade 5 student Layna Delk.

A year later, the District is ready to move forward with a full-time return-to-school plan for 2021-22. The goal is for 100% in-person learning back in original classrooms. K-5 will continue to utilize crates and outdoor learning spaces while lunch and specials will head back to their original areas. Plastic barriers around students’ desks will no longer be in use, and Wednesdays will go back to full-day learning K-5. The HCC schedule will begin the day with Xpod, as it had many benefits for all students. Grades 7 and 8 will run a block schedule allowing for extended periods to delve deeper into content. There will be similar blocks of class time at the high school with their new schedule, and an extended lunch period for the entire building.

As mask and capacity rules changed near the end of the 2020-21 school year, students began to feel their school day return to normalcy. One of the biggest days for Wampus students is Field Day, and in mid-June children were able to share in this experience once again. Jacob Singer, a grade 5 student and a winner of the Field Day Sportsmanship Award said, “It was the best day of the school year. It felt so good to be together as a grade.” Leah Stein, also a fifth-grader and winner of the Field Day Sportsmanship Award said, “It felt like things were starting to be back to usual like we were all together as one fifth grade community.”

During this event, the positivity felt by students and teachers was acknowledged as a reassuring sign of things to come.

On June 8th, 2021, six Byram Hills teachers and two administrators were recognized by the Board of Education to receive tenure. This year’s teachers include Nicole Lividini, Meredith Vasta Brieant, Tara Ryan, Lauren Congelossi, Caroline Matthew, Gregory Quirolo, and the administrators were Angelo Ancona and Kim Lapple. “These teachers and administrators have accepted a long-term commitment in Byram Hills, and that is what tenure means here,” said Byram Hills Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia. “Each one of the tenure recipients gives back to their teams, their grade levels, and their departments in very significant ways.”

Nicole Lividini, a special education teacher at Wampus, has brought many different skills from the NYC Department of Education and is described as an instructional leader. Nicole was instrumental in adopting the current online programs for students at the elementary level.

Meredith Vasta Brieant, a special education teacher at HCC, looks to increase her students’ engagement through differentiated instruction. She ensures that her students assimilate beyond the classroom through extracurricular activities. Meredith is the field hockey coach and the assistant varsity basketball coach helping to revitalize that program.

Tara Ryan is a physical education teacher at HCC and coaches varsity basketball, softball, and swim. She is a strong and passionate athlete who modifies her classes to students’ needs which has helped her adaptive PE classes for special education students.

Lauren Congelossi, a special education teacher at BHHS, focuses on ensuring that her content and delivery will result in successful student outcomes. Lauren is also a big part of the community outside the classroom as an assistant advisor for the Social Advocacy Club working with her students on community service opportunities and charitable events.

Dr. Caroline Matthew is an excellent addition to our science research program and a valuable resource to students and colleagues. Her Ph.D. in microbiology and strong knowledge of the sciences is a tremendous asset. Caroline contributed to the design of the virtual science symposium and organized a parade to visit each 2021 senior to honor their achievements.

Gregory Quirolo is a passionate and caring BHHS school counselor and contributes significantly to his department and students. He created video tutorials and a web page for the College Clinic anticipating student needs for the college application process before the school closure in March 2020.

Angelo Ancona, Assistant Principal of HCC, has an incredible passion for his students. He was a well-respected science teacher before becoming an administrator and focuses on student emotional wellness and the strength of the middle school community. He implemented Project ME, a successful program that builds and fosters community and personal growth.

Kim Lapple, Principal of HCC, successfully guided the middle school through a global pandemic. She is a strong, caring leader who created Wellness for All and redesigned students’ end-of-year practices. Kim is tremendous for morale, culture, and climate at HCC and is responsible for the positive tone set in the building. She has helped many students reach great heights academically, socially, and emotionally and is held in high esteem by the District.


CLICK HERE to view tenured staff and administrators.

The Teacher Recognition Award is given annually to one teacher from each school for a particular contribution beyond the scope of a teachers’ performance. Typically, this award is announced at a Board of Education meeting with family, friends, and colleagues present, but nothing was typical about this past school year. Alternatively, school principals and administrators recognized and awarded all teachers at all Byram Hills schools! “If teaching this year were an Olympic event, I’d give all of our teachers gold medals,” exclaimed Dr. Jen Lamia, Superintendent of Schools. Teachers were surprised at a faculty meeting and honored with a video that included photos of each of them.

The following are excerpts from each principal’s presentation to the teachers.

Coman Hill
“Since the start of the pandemic, the Coman Hill teachers have accomplished what many would have deemed impossible,” said Mrs. MaryBeth Crupi, Coman Hill Principal. “From restructuring classrooms to creating warm learning spaces, embracing new technologies, supporting each other and our students, the Coman Hill teachers have shined brightly.” Mrs. Crupi concluded, “We are honored to present the entire Coman Hill faculty the 2021 Teacher Recognition award.”

Wampus
“The 2020-2021 school year was like no other year in the history of Wampus, Byram Hills, or the rest of the world. The challenges that were presented to the teachers were magnificent,” said Mrs. Peggy McInernery Wampus, Principal. “How the Wampus teachers handled all of these challenges was far more magnificent than the challenges themselves. Wampus teachers’ ability to manage significant responsibilities, problem solve, adapt, teach and set the example on how to lead a school was evident this past year,” Mrs. McInernery said.

H.C. Crittenden
“When thinking about the HCC Teacher of the Year award in the past, that person committed to their students, sought improvement, reflected on their work, collaborated with colleagues, engaged in
professional development, and put students first,” said Ms. Kim Lapple, H.C. Crittenden Principal. “It seemed impossible to identify just one person in a year that was the most challenging of our teaching careers,” Ms. Lapple said.

Byram Hills High School
“As I reflected on this year, I felt that recognizing only one of our colleagues would be counter to the spirit of the award,” said Mr. Christopher Walsh, Byram Hills High School Principal. “Each of our teachers set an example of professionalism, dignity, perseverance, and excellence in the most
difficult year to teach in our school’s history. In addition, teachers found innovative ways to connect with students allowing them to feel stable during an unstable time.”



 

There was an astounding 690 years of service among our faculty and staff recognized as Longevity Service Award candidates on June 21, 2021, at the Board of Education Meeting. Dr. Sandra Abt, who is ending her 50th year of service, was here when the District was just starting. Our 30 and 25-year recipients saw the shaping of Byram Hills, as the Armonk population dramatically increased. “What keeps our staff members here is not doing the same thing every year but continuously improving on their work,” said Dr. Jen Lamia, Byram Hills Superintendent. “It is about finding this work as your life work and making sure you are the best at it.” Congratulations to the following Longevity Service Award recipients.

50 Years:
Sandra Abt
30 Years:
Martin Gilbert
Sandra Levin

25 Years:
Kimberly Braverman
Jennifer Croke
Janine Guastella
Jayne Karlin
Kathryn Meaney

20 Years:
Julie Calemmo
Reginald Carter
Carole Consigliere
Roseanne DeTomaso
Liza Devaney
Angela Dukes
Maria Facciola
Dana Ferraro
Umberto Foarero
Melinda Fuller
Anneliese Galgano
Michael Hubertus
Sewcharran Jawahir
Lily Li
Alan Lounsbury
Heather Manriquez
Mohammed Minhas
Annamarie Nardi
Karen Orlando Vetter
Theodore Repa
Giovanna Roviezzo
Consolato Rizzo
Kathy Shelhart
Kristina Wilson

CLICK HERE to view awarded staff and faculty.
 

The Byram Hills School District’s 2021-2022 Budget was approved by the community voters on Tuesday, May 18, 2021.

The results were:  344 YES / 70 NO.

The Byram Hills Board of Education had two open seats to fill - each for a three-year term.  Mr. Scott Levy, current Byram Hills Board of Education Trustee, was re-elected and Mr. Petrie Verma, the District’s current PTSA President, was elected to serve as a new trustee on the Board.

“Our efforts remained focused on the impact of the budget on students and our taxpayers, with a budget-to-budget increase of .75% and a 1% tax levy, resulting in a budget that is 1.57% below the permissible tax levy limit,” said Dr. Jen Lamia, Byram Hills Superintendent. Over the past five years, the District has stayed below the permissible tax cap by over 3.9M. The budget supports programs and opportunities in our schools that have brought Byram Hills much success.   Thank you to our community for your continued support.

 

The Byram Hills Fine Arts Department is proud to present TWO virtual art shows premiering simultaneously on the Byram Hills website on May 12th at 6 pm.  
The K-12 Art Show will feature work from our youngest kindergarten students, our graduating seniors, and all students in-between.  Viewers will see the art world through the lens of children and their boundless imaginations.

The AP Art Show features artwork by students whose coursework includes AP Photo, AP Graphic Design, AP Studio Art, and AP 3-Dimensional Design.  Each AP art student will present a total of ten pieces, with many supporting their sustained investigations, a portfolio of related work.

In tandem with the Byram Hills Media Center, all 11 District art teachers collaborated to create a virtual experience for our community to celebrate the creativity of our young artists.  Much of the artwork includes written statements from the artist allowing the viewer to understand the creative mindset behind each work of art.  Our youngest learners engaged in conversations about art with their families before selecting an original piece for the art show.  Students scripted responses to a writing prompt which tapped into their emotional reactions to art.

“I am so proud of the student artwork that has been accomplished this year,” said Mr. Pete Pauliks, Byram Hills Director of Fine Arts.  “Our students deserve to have their art showcased and recognized by the Byram Hills community and beyond. What a treat!”
To view the Byram Hills Virtual Art Show on May 12th at 6:00 pm, please visit: byramhills.org/virtualartshow.

School psychologists are uniquely trained and qualified to socially, emotionally, and academically support students. They also consult with teachers on the best way to help with student success in the classroom. Byram Hills is fortunate to have five outstanding psychologists who, through compassion and guidance, ensure that their students’ emotional and academic issues are appropriately addressed.
At Coman Hill, Ms. Jaime Karp has been working with both students and parents for twelve years. “Many parents need assistance in the area of occupying and educating their young children while keeping everyone safe,” she shared.  “I love that every day is different and that I have the potential to impact students and their families positively.” Ms. Karp is continually called upon to help students with anxiety, behavioral, or mental health concerns.

Dr. Yvette Thompson has been the school psychologist at Wampus for 17 years.  Ms. Thompson said, “I help teachers, parents, and students understand their strengths and weaknesses. Academically, we paint a picture of what a prescription for learning might be.”  Dr. Thompson addresses COVID-19 and how it creates feelings of anxiety and discomfort among many families. Dr. Thompson said, “Wampus is doing an extraordinary job of building community and making sure that students are connected in their pods.”

At H.C. Crittenden, Ms. Deena Horvath, like her colleagues, wears many hats.  “You need to rotate what is at the top of your priority list every day,” she said.  “Being a voice for the students is important because some do not know how to share their feelings or advocate for themselves.”  It is clear how much Ms. Horvath enjoys witnessing the growth and progress of her students from grade six to grade eight.   “Hearing that your past students are independent and successful and knowing you played a role in their development is why I do this,” she shared.

Dr. Carolyn Lanfredi has been with Byram Hills for twelve years and helped establish the Flexible Support Program.  She works with students needing counseling support.  “If you are part of this program, the resource room is built into your schedule. My office is right there, so students can pop in any time,” said Dr. Lanfredi.  “A sense of a safe place is essential, and I offer that to my students. They know they can come to me, and there is no judgment.”

Dr. Ellen Medd worked at Wampus for 27 years before moving to Byram Hills High School two years ago. To reconnect with students from Wampus and see their growth is a unique experience. “The pandemic has brought many stressors,” Dr. Medd shared. “Testing is complicated, and conducting meetings through Zoom often misses interpersonal connections. Social isolation is challenging for high school students, as well.”  Dr. Medd is also the chairperson for the CSE & 504 Committees at the high school.

Dr. Medd collaborates with Social Worker Ms. Annie Kelly, Student Assistance Counselor Bernice Pagan, and Dr. Lanfredi in a group known as the Emotional Wellness Support Team. Their goal is to support students, families, and the larger school community and identify struggling students and ensure they receive appropriate attention and support. The team routinely collaborates with administrators, teachers, and parents to assess each situation.

The Byram Hills school psychologists work as a dedicated team that includes teachers, guidance counselors, and social workers. In addition to assisting children with special needs, they make certain that all students thrive in school and beyond. These five extraordinary and compassionate professionals are part of what makes Byram Hills a great place to learn.

Byram Hills has been working diligently across the four schools to keep music and the arts alive and robust throughout the pandemic.

“This has been an opportunity for us to reflect upon the process of music,” said Pete Pauliks, Director of Fine Arts. “We must remind ourselves what gave us goosebumps the first time we heard a performance or performed ourselves. It’s that glimmer in a student’s eye and the magic of music that we want to recreate for students.”
 
Young musicians are unguarded, uninhibited, and free from the pressure of having to do things right or perfect. They can explore, experiment, laugh, be silly, and use their imagination without boundaries.  The pressure of performance has an impact on that joyful process, as students mature and the musicianship and interpretation often diminish. Byram Hills is evaluating the musical experience, as they want to deliver authentic, hands-on participation.  “We can press pause with music education and reimagine what this could look like. Teachers are reinventing and giving students a voice to play a bigger role,” said Mr. Pauliks.  

COVID-19 has allowed for contemplation of the musical process and has removed some of the pressure associated with performances.  Teachers have more time to focus on beginning skills such as finger, hand, and arm positioning, posture, and why these skills are important.  The silver lining is that lessons have been reconstructed to teach the importance of reading, understanding, and interpreting musical notes.  “We want to excel and stay competitive, but we don’t want to lose the excitement of experiencing music from the inside out, the way we do at the primary level,” said Mr. Pauliks.  “How can we reignite that fire that we once saw in students when they were first learning?  Music is about the joy, figuring it out, the lightbulb moment, the feeling of community, trying and succeeding, and crossing the finish line, but in a different way.” 
 
Teaching incorporates exploring, discovering, and tapping into something.  Music classes include collaborating and building critical, transferable skills.  “We develop this through a process - the why and how.  We can take our time and dig deeper into the nuances of music,” said Mr. Pauliks.  Teachers at every grade level have been spending more time on basic musical concepts such as beat, rhythm, and harmony.  
 
Byram Hills talented and resourceful music teachers have created student opportunities to perform virtually.  Students and teachers are doing incredible work coordinating solo performances from home, and then editing them into ensemble pieces.  
 
Each of the school's music teachers have discovered new technologies to engage learners effectively.  The SmartMusic Accompaniment platform enables students to play along with a song that incorporates all band sections and allows students to mute their instruments to hear the band and accompany the track.  Listening to the tempo of the track changes makes performing solo less isolating.  This virtual music experience mirrors an authentic experience. 

Quaver Music is a new interactive music program for grades K-5. Teachers can choose activities, tasks, and lessons through Google Classroom. It also offers tools for basic musical knowledge and includes features such as Class Play, which allows students to practice songs. These resources supplement the music program and will continue beyond the pandemic as they allow for differentiation, skills reinforcement, and an enhanced learning environment.  

The Music Department’s fundamental elements are centered around teamwork and group experiences and provide students with a well-rounded education that builds self-esteem and prepares them for a bright future.  The Byram Hills Music Department continues to strike the right chords.

Kindergarten Registration for 2021-2022
March 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 17th via a Google Meet.

A child entering Kindergarten in September 2021 must be five years old on or before December 1, 2021.

Digital Registration:
Every parent/guardian will need to go online to request a digital registration packet.  This includes parents who already have students at Byram Hills as well as anyone involved in the CPSE process.


Please make sure to do the following:

1. Request your digital registration packet between the dates of December 4th-February 8th by CLICKING HERE.
    
2. Call and schedule a Virtual Kindergarten registration meeting between the dates of February 22nd - March 1st. Registration dates are March 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 17th. Please call Michelle Ramirez at 914-273-4183 ext. 1910 to schedule your Google Meet.
    
3. Complete your digital registration packet and email/submit it to Michelle Ramirez at: mramirez@byramhills.net, prior to your Virtual Registration Google Meet.
    

If this is the first time you are registering a child in the District, you will be required to establish proof of residency at the District Office before your scheduled registration appointment. 
 

School nurses play an integral role in monitoring and maintaining the health and well-being of students. They are on the frontline for potential emergencies while providing a safe environment in case of illness or injury. Byram Hills is fortunate to have six full-time nurses and two assistants who share a passion for their profession.

Betsy Gordon has been at Coman Hill for over 15 years. “The students are all of our kids and I come here first as a mother and then a nurse. That gives us a perspective that makes the kids feel safe and secure,” she said. Nurse Gordon spoke of caring for her students’ injuries and discussing how they occurred with them. She finds that hurt feelings go way beyond their scratches and that all gets reconciled in her office.  Students are happy and intact both physically and emotionally when they leave her office.

During the pandemic, school nurses faced a myriad of new challenges in order to keep students safe. One of the many priorities within Byram Hills was to adapt nurse’s offices to accommodate healthy and potentially sick children simultaneously. Nurse Gordon explained, “We changed our space from a small, sweet health office to a larger area with a division between well and possibly ill students. We also needed a location by an outside door for easy access to exit students from the building, if needed.”

While safety protocols are of utmost importance, school nurses still have the responsibility of instilling safety throughout their schools. “Some people think the nurses just put on bandaids or keep track of physicals but we are much more,” said Deborah Negrin, H.C. Crittenden School Nurse of 11 years. “My role is to make sure that students are healthy and in the best place they can be to learn.”

“Being an advocate and a positive role model for students is the most important part of this job,” said Mrs. Julie Gallagher, Byram Hills High School nurse of 16 years.  “If kids have any health conditions or medical problems, it is my job to educate them on how to manage these conditions. Teaching these kids is my favorite part of the job,” Mrs. Gallagher said.  “I teach them to navigate the school on crutches, play field hockey with a diabetic pump, general wound care, the whole gamut.”

Many districts are unable to have a qualified full-time nurse in each school.  With today’s ever-changing public health landscape, that can make it extremely difficult to reopen. In districts such as those, nurses drive from school to school distributing necessary medication. “We have always required a registered nurse in every school and because of that we are well prepared,” said Mrs. Gallagher.

Byram Hills nurses bring a remarkably broad set of skills and experiences to their job and were invaluable in reopening the schools. These individuals are doing everything in their power to keep our students in class and are helping to preserve normalcy. Their constant care, efforts to manage safety protocols, and devotion to students should not go unnoticed. Please thank your school nurse and recognize the unique and daunting challenges they face daily.