The North Syracuse Central School District Board of Education abolished the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources position and created a Director of Human Resources position in its place, then hired Gillette Road Middle School Principal Sarah Jones to fill it at $151,606 a year, replacing Michael Baroody, Ed.D. The board also awarded a $72,000 capital outlay contract to Brick-Tek and abolished a Systems Administrator post in favor of a new Help Desk Supervisor position.
Typeset from the official record — motions and recorded votes are detected automatically. The official copy governs.
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the North Syracuse Central School District Board of Education held on May 4, 2026, at the Jerome F. Melvin Administrative Office Building, 5355 West Taft Road, North Syracuse, NY 13212
Michael Mirizio, President
Dr. Terry Ward Superintendent Paul Farfaglia, Vice President
Donald F.X. Keegan, Associate Superintendent for Business Services Robert Crabtree
Christopher R. Leahey, Ed.D, Deputy Superintendent Joshua Ludden
Michael Baroody, Ed.D., Asst. Superintendent for Human Resources Michael Shusda
Jilian K. Herrera, District Clerk Matthew Hermann
Amanda Sugrue Cheryl McDonald Mark Thorne
Brigid Gill Student Ex-Officio
Mr. Mirizio called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Board President Michael Mirizio led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mr. Mirizio asked for a Moment of Silence for the following:
Ronald Dickson, a retiree of the North Syracuse Central School District, Peter Zaleski, a graduate of the North Syracuse Central School District, and Lina Miller, a graduate of the North Syracuse Central School District.
The CNS Optimist Club was chartered in 1990. The Optimist Club is a volunteer organization STUDENT WINNERS participating in many community events including: Challenge Baseball, Christmas Bureau, Girls Basketball Grades 3-7, North Syracuse Community Days, personal hygiene item donations to our schools, and soccer and hockey tournaments.
Each year, students participate in both essay and oratorical competitions. This year, Emma VanBeveren won both the local and district essay contest winning a $2,500 scholarship. Joey Cox and Alexis Sturgeon participated in the oratorical contest. Joey Cox won first place in the District contest and won a $2,500 scholarship and will compete this summer in the regional event in St. Louis.
The CNS Optimist Club organized an art contest for our students with the help of the Director of Fine Arts, Daryle Redmond. The two winning students are Eliza Carbone and MacKenzie Kelly.
Erin Deaver, Career Center Coordinator, and Kristen Hill, CNS Executive Principal, will provide an overview of the Career Center at Cicero-North Syracuse High School. Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 558
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No Comments
Mr. Thorne stated he does not have any Policy Committee updates at this time. Mr. Crabtree stated we had a Legislative Committee Meeting this past week and again we spoke about the state budget. He also recognized student representatives Bridget and Liam for their work with Ms. Bryson and Mr. Bryson to help ensure eligible 18-year-old students are registered and prepared to vote in November. He thanked Bridget for her efforts and noted he would thank Liam as well.
SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Ward announced that the district’s Special Olympics event has been rescheduled to the rain date
of May 28. He also shared that OCSIA Chairwoman Nicole Watts had reached out to the district about hosting a regional discussion regarding PILOTs and their impact on school districts. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27 at 4:30 p.m. in the junior high library. Dr. Ward also thanked the Optimist Club participants and students Alexis and Joey for their speeches earlier in the evening. In closing, he complimented the recent CNS Late Show production, noting the tremendous talent and humor displayed by students and staff involved in the performance.
Mr. Ludden member thanked Dr. Ward, Don Keegan, the cabinet, and fellow board
members for their continued work during challenging financial times. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining investments in fine arts, athletics, and district facilities while remaining fiscally responsible, noting these investments contribute to the strong reputation of the district and help prepare students for future success. Community members were also encouraged to vote on May 19.
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Mr. Farfaglia board member reminded everyone that the Board of Education is sponsoring a hole at the June 7 Dollars Scholars Golf Tournament and invited donations toward the sponsorship.
Several board members echoed praise for the CNS Late Show, recognizing the work of John Nadler, Danielle Russa, and the students involved with Forty Productions. Comments highlighted the exceptional talent of students throughout the district and encouraged community members to watch the production once it is posted online.
Additional comments recognized high school principal Kristen Hill and reflected on the student speeches presented during the meeting, particularly the sense of community students described within the district. Updates were also shared regarding athletics, including the boys lacrosse matchup against West Genesee, with excitement expressed for the game and recognition of student involvement in broadcasting through Northstar Nation. It was also noted that several North Syracuse students had recently been inducted into the OCM BOCES National Honor Society at the Innovation Tech program, with district representatives expressing pride in the accomplishments of the students.
STUDENT BOE Ms. Gill shared updates on a successful week for CNS athletics, including wins in baseball, girls
lacrosse, and softball. She also spoke about the upcoming Special Olympics event and the strong participation and support shown by CNS seniors. She highlighted the recent conclusion of the unified basketball season and praised the increased crowd participation and inclusive atmosphere at games this year. She also provided an update on the student voter registration initiative she and Liam have been leading. The pair have been visiting senior participation in government and economics classes to provide information about voter registration and voting resources. Ms. Gill noted that students have been very receptive to the presentations and expressed hope that younger students involved this year will continue expanding the initiative in future years.
Mr. Farfaglia made the motion to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board REGULAR Education on May 4, 2026. Mr. Thorne seconded the motion and it was carried with nine
yes votes.
May 4, 2026
CLASSIFICATION Ms. McDonald made the motion to approve the classification and school placement of & PLACEMENT disabled students who are certified as eligible to receive special education by the District OF DISABLED Committee on Special Education for 4/10, 4/13, 4/14, 4/15, 4/16, 4/17, 4/20, 4/21, 4/22, 4/23, 4/24, 4/27, 4/28, 4/29, 4/30, 5/01 and 5/05/2026.
STUDENTS and made the motion to approve the classification and placement of Pre School & PRE SCHOOL DISABL disabled students who are certified as eligible to receive special education STUDENTS District Committee on Preschool Special Education for 4/30 and 5/5/2026.
Mr. Farfaglia seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Ms. Sugrue made the motion to approve the appointment of Inspectors, Poll Site Managers and a OF POLL WORKERS Certified Machine Technician as follows, and authorize the District Clerk to appoint other individuals as necessary:
District #1
Inspectors: Melissa Suflita, Kathy See, Fran Fanizzi
Poll Site Managers: Diane Primerano, Barbara Matteson Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 564
Certified Machine Technician: Lee Plavoukos
District #2
Inspectors: Cynthia Strong, Maureen Jones, Mary Houghton
Poll Site Managers: Goldie Wombacker, Margaret Goldych
Certified Machine Technician: Lee Plavoukos
Absentee and Mail In Ballot Counters- District 1
Deborah Cramer
Laurie Cook
Kristin Johnston
Carol Strzelecki
Mr. Shusda seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Bids for the 2025/26 Capital Outlay Project were opened on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Representing
the District at the opening were Karen Beck of the Business Office and Matt Erwin of Maintenance & Operations. Bid Results from lowest bidders are as follows:
BELLOWS CONSTRUCTION $ 49,946 $ 37,783 $ 28,000 $ 115,729
$ 44,800 $ 17,500 $ 10,000 $ 72,000 CDM $ 35,150 $ 41,600 $ 30,900 $ 107,650
$ 42,042 $ 19,222 $ 11,899 $ 73,163
$ 39,800 $ 33,200 $ 20,200 $ 93,200
Mr. Thorne made the motion to Award the contract to Brick-Tek in the amount of $72,000 as the lowest responsible bidder meeting the specifications of King & King Project #26-44-9106. Mr. Ludden seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Farfaglia made the motion to approve the foregoing resolution.
WHEREAS the North Syracuse Central School District, in analyzing job duties and
necessary tasks, has determined that for reasons of efficiency, it is necessary to abolish and create certain administrative positions; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
The following position be and hereby abolished effective July 1, 2026: Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
The following position be and hereby created effective July 1, 2026: Director of Human Resources
Ms. Sugrue seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes. Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 565
CREATE & Ms. McDonald made the motion to approve the foregoing resolution.
WHEREAS the North Syracuse Central School District, in analyzing job duties and necessary
tasks, has determined that for reasons of efficiency, it is necessary to abolish and create a certain Civil Service position; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
Civil Service: Technology Department The following position is hereby abolished effective September 1, 2026:
Civil Service: Technology Department The following position is hereby created effective July 6, 2026:
Mr. Crabtree seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Ludden made the motion to approve the foregoing resolution.
WHEREAS the North Syracuse Central School District, in reviewing staffing needs pertaining
to the 2025-2026 adopted budget, has determined for student support needs, it is necessary to create a certain position, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
The following position is hereby created effective September 22, 2025:
Ms. Sugrue seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Ludden made the motion to approve Personnel A as submitted below.
Mr. Thorne seconded the motion.
PERSONNEL A – INSTRUCTIONAL
NAME: Holliday, Naomi ASSIGNMENT: Substitute Science Teacher
LOCATION: Roxboro Road Middle School
Biology, dated 7/1/23
$78,510 EFFECTIVE: 5/18/26 ACTION: Hired as a long-term substitute Science Teacher; replaces Erika McHale.
NAME: Scalzo, Kyle ASSIGNMENT: Probationary Mathematics Teacher
LOCATION: North Syracuse Junior High School
Mathematics 7-12, dated 6/8/23 PROBATIONARY PERIOD: 9/2/26 – 9/1/30
$76,577 EFFECTIVE: 9/2/26 ACTION: Hired as a probationary Mathematics Teacher; replaces Julie Shova.
To Appoint a Probationary Classroom Teacher - Kyle Scalzo The Superintendent of Schools (“Superintendent”) recommends that Kyle Scalzo (“Mr. Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 566
Scalzo”) be appointed by the Board of Education (“Board”) of the North Syracuse Central School District (the “District”) to a probationary term as a Mathematics Teacher, at an annualized salary of $76,577, minus applicable withholdings and deductions; Mr. Scalzo possesses initial certification in Mathematics 7-12, dated 6/8/23;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that upon the Superintendent’s recommendation,the
Board hereby appoints Mr. Scalzo, in accordance with §3012 of the Education Law, to a four-year probationary term, in the Mathematics tenure area, commencing on September 2, 2026 and ending on September 1, 2030.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that nothing in this Resolution shall be construed to limit the unfettered statutory right of the District to terminate Mr. Scalzo for any statutorily and constitutionally permissible reason while he remains in probationary status.
Substitute Teachers (retired)- $210/day:
Slack, Patricia Substitute Teachers (uncertified) - $145/day:
Alvaro, Sean Lopez, Nimbe Lisi III, John Mashoor, Mervet Lawless, Hunter Mendez, Karla Substitute Teaching Assistants - $17.80/hour:
Colunio, Michele Kennedy, Grady Stagnitta, Jessica
VOLUNTARY TRANSFERS:
NAME: Emond, Amy ASSIGNMENT: Elementary Teacher
LOCATION: Lakeshore Road Elementary School
9/2/26 ACTION: Voluntarily transfers from Allen Road Elementary School to Lakeshore Road Elementary School; replaces Laura Shore.
NAME: Jerome, Jennifer ASSIGNMENT: Kindergarten Teacher
LOCATION: Lakeshore Road Elementary School
9/2/26 ACTION: Voluntarily transfers from Allen Road Elementary School to Lakeshore Road Elementary School; replaces Alisa Findlay.
REQUESTS FOR LEAVE:
NAME: Agnew, Maria ASSIGNMENT: Mathematics Teacher
LOCATION: Roxboro Road Middle School
5/12/26 ACTION: Requests a child rearing leave.
NAME: Benson, Linda ASSIGNMENT: Teaching Assistant
LOCATION: Allen Road Elementary School
4/17/26 ACTION: Requests a medical leave.
NAME: Schilly, Laura ASSIGNMENT: English Teacher
LOCATION: Cicero-North Syracuse High School
5/18/26 ACTION: Requests a medical leave.
AMENDMENT TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES OF May 22, 2023: NAME: Agnew, Maria ASSIGNMENT: Mathematics Teacher
LOCATION: Roxboro Road Middle School
9/5/23–10/20/26 ACTION: Probationary period amended from 9/5/23-9/4/26 to 9/5/23-10/20/26, due to unpaid child rearing leave.
The motion was carried was carried with nine yes votes. Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 567
Mr. Shusda made the motion to acknowledge personnel B as presented. Mr. Ludden seconded the motion.
PERSONNEL B – SUPPORT STAFF APPOINTMENTS:
NAME: Biscardi, Caroline ASSIGNMENT: Occupational Therapist
LOCATION: District wide
$84,870.48 EFFECTIVE: 9/2/26 ACTION: Newly created position.
NAME: Forbes, Jocelyn ASSIGNMENT: Physical Therapist
LOCATION: District wide
$93,419.47 EFFECTIVE: 9/2/26 ACTION: Newly created position.
NAME: Holland, John ASSIGNMENT: Systems Consultant
LOCATION: Administrative Office Building
$83,000 EFFECTIVE: 7/1/26 ACTION: Newly created position.
NAME: Obit, Paulette ASSIGNMENT: Substitute Typist I
LOCATION: Transportation Department SALARY: $23.57 per hour EFFECTIVE: 4/2/26 – 6/30/26 ACTION: Hired as a long-term substitute Typist I; replaces Sylvia LeBaron.
NAME: Pascarella, Hailey ASSIGNMENT: Occupational Therapist
LOCATION: District wide
$84,252.44 EFFECTIVE: 9/2/26 ACTION: Newly created position.
NAME: Oswald, Lilianna ASSIGNMENT: Substitute School Nurse SALARY: $155.00 per day EFFECTIVE: 5/13/26 CHANGE IN LOCATION, CLASSIFICATION AND/OR SALARY:
NAME: Beechner, Brooke ASSIGNMENT: School Secretary I – 12-month
LOCATION: Cicero-North Syracuse High School
7/1/26 LOCATION: Voluntary transfer from the North Syracuse Junior High School as a School Secretary I 11-month to Cicero-North Syracuse Central School District as a School Secretary I 12-month; newly created position.
Summer Feeding Program Substitutes:
July 6, 2026 – August 14, 2026 Blake, Sherilyn $24.57/hr.
LaBarre, Peggy $20.19/hr.
Cheever, Betty Teacher Aide 2 hrs./day $23.36/hr.
REQUESTS FOR LEAVE:
NAME: Bessette, Arianna ASSIGNMENT: Custodial Worker II
LOCATION: Cicero Elementary School
4/23/26 ACTION: Requests a child bearing leave.
NAME: Parody, Danielle ASSIGNMENT: School Nurse
LOCATION: Gillette Road Middle School
4/22/26 ACTION: Requests a child bearing leave. Regular Meeting of the Board of Education 568
NAME: Wall-Kyle, Amanda ASSIGNMENT: Physical Therapist
LOCATION: North Syracuse Early Education Program
5/9/26 ACTION: Requests a child bearing leave.
RETURNS FROM LEAVE:
NAME: Mace, Gary ASSIGNMENT: School Bus Driver
LOCATION: Transportation Department
5/4/26 ACTION: Returns from a medical leave.
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
NAME: Bartlett, Gary ASSIGNMENT: Substitute School Bus Driver
LOCATION: Transportation Department
5/1/26 ACTION: Long-term substitute assignment ends; returns to substitute status and pay.
The motion was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Crabtree made the motion to acknowledge personnel C as presented. Mr. Ludden seconded the motion.
PERSONNEL C – ADMINISTRATIVE NAME: Jones, Sarah ASSIGNMENT: Director of Human Resources
LOCATION: Administrative Office Building PROBATIONARY PERIOD: 7/1/26 – 6/30/29
School District Leader, dated 4/1/22
$151,606 EFFECTIVE: 7/1/26 ACTION: Hired to replace Michael Baroody.
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
NAME: Jones, Sarah ASSIGMENT: Middle School Principal
LOCATION: Gillette Road Middle School
6/30/26 ACTION: Resigns position to take the Director of Human Resources position.
The motion was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Mirizio made the motion to move into Executive session for the purpose of reviewing one personnel
item with no action to follow. Mr. Ludden seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes.
Mr. Mirizio made the motion to adjourn. Mr. Crabtree seconded the motion and it was carried with nine yes votes at 6:54 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jilian Herrera District Clerk
BOARD APPROVAL ________________________