Meetings and Events

Calendar : Minutes : Past Presentations : Photo Gallery

Calendar

2011-2012 School Year

September 20 - Open Membership Meeting with Speakers Allison Rushforth, Jodi Shapiro and Stewart Grabelsky

October 18 - Reading Presentation with Speakers Patrick Reilly, District Coordinator for ELA, Sally Doulton, MS Special Ed Teacher, Laura Coleman, MP Reading Specialist and Geralyn Marasco, SR Reading Specialist

November 29 -

 

2010-2011 School Year

September 21 - Open Membership Meeting with Speakers Amanda Gimundo and Jane Grappone to discuss counseling services.

October 19 - Testing Accomodations presentation with Speakers Dr. Vicki Klein and Marion Sternberg.

November 30 - Winter Social Skills Programs

January 18 -New IEP Format

March 1 - Best Buddies presentation

April 12 - Budget Review w/Allison Rushforth

May 24 - Annual Meeting & Elections

2009-2010 School Year

September 29 - Open Membership Meeting
November 10 - New Program Panel Discussion & District Update with Speaker Allison Rushforth
January 26 - Anxiety with Speaker Dana Reinecke
March 2 - Budget Review with
Allison Rushforth
April 13 - Summer Programs & Officer Nominations
May 25- Annual Meeting & Elections

Our speakers for the 2009-2010 year will follow our theme of focusing on programs. Our speakers from the 2008-2009 year followed a theme of therapies to address a variety of disabilities. Our speakers from 2007-2008 followed a theme of educating the membership by explaining individual disabilities.

2009-2010 School Year Meeting Summary

March 2 - Budget Review - Speaker Allison Rushforth

January 26 - Anxiety - Speaker Dana Reinecke, Ph.D., B.C.B.A.

Anxiety impacts children of all ages. Disordered anxiety is when fear is out of context and prevents a person from doing things that they want to do or should do. For children, this can involve extreme behavioral overreactions that affect their family, a preoccupation with objects or can result in other controlling behavior such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). There are a variety of causes of disordered anxiety and the most common treatment is Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

November 10 - New Programs Discussion - PASE Board

2008-2009 School Year Meeting Summary

October 14 - Art Therapy – Speaker Peggy Leder, MA, ATR

Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.

November 18 - Handwriting Help & Strategies – Speaker Mindy Markowitz OTR/L

Does Occupational Therapy mystify and confuse you? If your child’s handwriting is poor, why is he balancing on a ball in therapy and not practicing letters? Well, without skill in five areas, a child is not ready to write. The basic skills for handwriting are: Visual Motor Skills, Visual Perception, Fine Motor Skills, Trunk Control, and Shoulder Stability. Learn how OT develops these skills.

December 16 - Therapy for the Visually Impaired- Speaker MacKenzie Schaefer

December's presentation features Manhasset teacher for the Visually Impaired, MacKenzie Schaefer. The presentation will explain how a teacher for the visually impaired assists a student. She will also help define the differences between a teacher for the visually impaired and a vision therapist.

January 13 - Social Skills - Board Work Session

Social skills are those communication, problem-solving, decision making, self-management, and peer relations abilities that allow one to initiate and maintain positive social relationships with others. Deficits or excesses in social behavior interfere with learning, teaching, and the classroom's orchestration and climate. Social competence is linked to peer acceptance, teacher acceptance, inclusion success and post school success.

February 10 – Summer Services & Camp Fair

Various vendors and service providers such as Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes, Hooves for Hope, Red Robin Country Day Camp, Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center - Roslyn, Mid-Island Y JCC Camp, The Actor's Garage and Manhasset Special Education Programs
will be invited to provide information regarding opportunities for next summer.

March 17 - Budget Review - Speaker Allison Rushforth

April 21 – Improving Vocabulary Development, Reading Fluency & Comprehension - Speaker Dr. Carla Feinstein

April’s presentation will focus on the various techniques, strategies and activities a parent can do at home to improve phonological awareness,, vocabulary development, reading fluency and comprehension. Molloy College Assistant Professor of Speech Language Pathology, Dr. Carla Feinstein, will be our speaker. Nominations for the one year term of PASE Officers will be submitted.

May 12 – Annual Meeting & Elections

June 9 – Executive Board Meeting

Installation of Board & Planning for 2009-2010 School Year

 

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Minutes

Minutes for PASE meeting on May 24, 2011

Officers Elected for 2011-2012 School Year:

Deborah Bowman, President
Bianca DeGaudenzi, Vice President
Renee McMahon, Treasurer
Lynn Maass, Secretary
Linda Kane, Webmaster
Bianca DeGaudenzi, Shelter Rock
Nancy Paganucci, Munsey Park
Lisa Santos, Middle & High School
President Emeritus, Stella Spanakos

Minutes for PASE meeting on April 13, 2010

  1. President Deborah Bowman opened the meeting by announcing the PASE meeting schedule for the 2010/11 school year.  There are 8 meetings planned for next year, with no meetings in December or February.  She explained that all Board members are about to enter the second year of their two-year term, except for Secretary Lynn Maass, who will be beginning her second term as Secretary.  The by-laws have been amended to increase term limits to two terms for all Board positions with the exception of President and Vice President.  Deborah announced the forming of new committees for Fundraising Events, Grants, Publicity and Webmaster and explained that Board Members can also be Committee Chairpersons.
  2. VP Renee McMahon read the new By-laws and the revised and clarified Officer Duties.
  3. Treasurer Bianca DeGaudenzi provided a Treasurer’s report. A discussion of future fundraising events was held. 
  4. Munsey Park representative Nancy Paganucci announced that the SCA had donated $100 to each of the organizations who provided speakers for Diversity Day on February 24th.    She reported that Dr. Kendall has suggested next year the speakers could visit throughout the year rather than all one day.  This would make scheduling easier and enable more of the speakers to use the auditorium.
  5. Special Education Director Allison Rushforth reported on program changes for the next school year.  No decision has been reached regarding whether there will be an integrated co-teach class for 4th grade at Shelter Rock Elementary.  There will be 3 special classes at Shelter Rock serving grades K-1, 1-2, and 3-4.  There will no longer be any special classes at Munsey Park and it is expected 2 children will be moving from Munsey Park to Shelter Rock.
  6. There followed a discussion of Summer Program options.  Deborah Bowman mentioned some camps on Long Island with programs for special needs children including Camp Kahilla, Robin Hood Country Day, Red Robin and Mid Island YMCA.  She also described academic programs such as Lindamood Bell and Fast Forward.
  7. Allison Rushforth reported that Summer Center will be at Munsey Park from July 6th – August 13th.  The full day program (8-1-1) runs from 8:30 – 2.30 pm and the half day program (12-1-1) runs from 8.30am – 11.30am.  Related Services such as Speech, OT and PT will be offered throughout the day.  In-District summer services are available to children who show significant regression with 30-40 days of re-teaching required after the summer.

Minutes for PASE meeting on March 2, 2010

 

Minutes for PASE meeting on January 26, 2010

  1. PASE President Deborah Bowman welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced  the guest speaker, Dr. Dana Reinecke, BCBA-D.
  2. Dr. Reinecke gave an informative presentation on anxiety and obsessive compulsive behavior.  She then answered questions and gave some practical suggestions for dealing with these behaviors at home and at school.
  3. Bianca DeGaudenzi provided a Treasurer's report.
  4. Deborah Bowman announced that it was the last day for parents to sign up their 2nd graders for Friendship Club, the after school social skills program, at Munsey Park run by Dr. Reinecke and at Shelter Rock, run by Dr. Kim Shamoun. The program runs at both schools for nine weeks from February 1st through April 19th. 
  5. Munsey Park Rep Nancy Paganucci announced an upcoming PASE fundraiser at Wendy's.  On Friday, February 5th from 5 - 7.30pm a portion of the receipts taken at two of the registers would be donated to PASE and she encouraged everyone to visit Wendy's that evening to support the event.
  6. Deborah Bowman announced another PASE fundraiser, a wine tasting which is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, March 6th.
  7. Allison Rushforth encouraged parents to attend the annual school district budget workshop which will take place on Saturday, February 27th.  She also mentioned that annual review CSE meetings will begin soon and parents will given a survey from the State Education Department after each meeting.  The surveys can be submitted either via mail or online and will be about the CSE meeting.  The Manhasset School District will be distributing 500 surveys and to reach compliance 81 surveys will have to be completed by August 1st 2010.
  8. The next PASE meeting will be on Tuesday, March 2nd and Allison Rushforth will be reviewing the annual budget.

Minutes for PASE meeting on November 10, 2009

  1. PASE President Deborah Bowman welcomed everyone to the meeting.
  2. Treasurer Bianca DeGaudenzi provided a Treasurer's report.
  3. Munsey Park representative Nancy Paganucci reported that she and Treasurer Bianca DeGaudenzi have been talking with Dr. Kendall regarding having a “Diversity Day” at Munsey Park similar to what has been offered at Shelter Rock the past few years.  A discussion regarding bullying in relation to the recent letters in the Manhasset Press followed.
  4. Shelter Rock representative Linda Kane reported that she, Deborah Bowman and Renee McMahon would be meeting with Mr. Geczik to discuss bringing the Social Skills program, PASE Friendship Club to Shelter Rock this winter.
  5. Deborah Bowman reported that she met with SCA President Karen Blando regarding incorporating PASE after school programs into the SCA after school program schedule in the future.  The SCA is offering foreign language as an extended extra option starting in January.
  6. Executive Director of Special Education Allison Rushforth reported that there are now FM systems in all first grade classes at both Shelter Rock and Munsey Park and they are all fully operational.  She went on to report on recent changes in special education law, specifically the ramifications of a parent revoking consent for special education services and changes affecting graduating seniors e.g.,  a graduating senior cannot continue to receive FAPE after receipt of a Regents Diploma.  Details regarding recent changes to special education law can be found when you select this linkwww.vesid.nysed.gov/ specialed/publications/lawsandregs/ amends609.htm.
  7. Allison Rushforth also reported on the statewide introduction of the new IEP format.   Training for the implementation of the new format will begin in September 2010 and the new forms will be used from July 1, 2011.
  8. Deborah Bowman reported on the PASE Friendship Club social skills pilot program at Munsey Park.  There are currently seven 2nd graders enrolled and the program is a success.  She reported that PASE would be developing a survey to see if there would be sufficient interest amongst parents of 4th graders at Munsey Park for the winter session.  It has not yet been decided which grades would be served if the program were to be offered at Shelter Rock in the winter as well.  She reported that PASE is currently investigating grant opportunities in order to continue the Art Therapy program next year. 
  9. Our next meeting is Tuesday, January 26th, 2010.  Speaker Dr. Dana Reinecke will present on the topic of Anxiety.

 

Minutes for PASE meeting on September 29, 2009

  1. President Deborah Bowman welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the Board. She announced that the theme for the 2009/2010 school year would be "Programs" (the theme for PASE meetings during the 2008/2009 year was "Therapies"). She announced that PASE is sponsoring two new programs this Fall. One is a social skills program or "Friendship Club" which will serve students in gradess 2-4 at Munsey Park. The second program is an Art Therapy program which will be at the Middle and High School for 7th-12th graders with High School seniors volunteering as peers. Both pilot programs will serve 10 students, will start on October 19th and will run 8 weeks. There are plans for both programs to run again in the Spring and to eventually offer the Social Skills program at Shelter Rock.
  2. Debbie Bowman outlined some of the fundraising events we have planned for this Fall. Nancy Paganucci is chairing a Barnes & Noble fundraiser which will take place from October 22nd – 25th. PASE will receive 15% of the proceeds of any sales made during that time where the customer mentions PASE at the register. PASE will be raffling a gift basket at the store. Debbie reminded everyone to sign up at www.onecause.com which will donate a percentage of internet purchases with major online retailers to PASE. Also, PASE continues to solicit donations of gently used designer handbags and accessories which will then be auctioned on eBay. Items can be brought to meetings, picked up from donors or dropped off at other locations. For more information, e-mail donations@manhassetpase.org. Debbie reminded everyone to check the PASE website regularly because the homepage is updated often with information on seminars and conferences etc.
  3. Lisa Santos was formally elected to the PASE Board as Middle and High School Representative.
  4. Treasurer Bianca DeGaudenzi provided a Treasurer’s report.
  5. President Debbie Bowman provided more details about both the Social Skills Program and the Art Therapy program and answered questions.
  6. Munsey Park Representative Nancy Paganucci, who is also the self-contained grade level chair, encouraged parents to bring their concerns/issues to her and she will raise them at grade level chair meetings or bring them to Dr. Kendall when appropriate. Nancy will also be hosting the PASE Elementary School Breakfast which will take place on October 15th at 148 Dogwood Lane.
  7. VP Renee McMahon provided an update on her membership drive.
  8. Jodi Shapiro, the new District Coordinator for Preschool – 6th grade (Laura Fine’s replacement) introduced herself and was presented with a PASE coffee mug and car magnet.
  9. General discussion of issues to be raised with the administration.
  10. Next meeting is Tuesday, November 10th.

 

Minutes for PASE meeting on June 2009

 

Minutes for PASE meeting on May 12, 2009

New PASE Board 2009-2010
Deborah Bowman, President
Renee McMahon, Vice President
Bianca DeGaudenzi, Treasurer
Lynn Maass, Secretary
Linda Kane, Shelter Rock
Nancy Paganucci, Munsey Park
Lisa Santos, Middle School & High School

Minutes for PASE meeting on April 21, 2009

  1. President Stella Spanakos welcomed everyone to the meeting. She reported on an event she attended on April 20th where Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi and former New York Mets star Daryl Strawberry commenced Autism Awareness Month. She explained that Tom Suozzi is trying to bring several autism groups together to form a coalition and develop a protocol for children diagnosed with autism. Stella also updated us on Sonny Garguilo’s 148 mile ride from Montauk to Sands Point on the horse “America” to promote autism awareness and raise money for the Hooves for Hope equine program for children with autism. You can follow the ride on the web at www.hoovesforhope.org, which has live video streaming. The ride will end at the Sands Point Preserve on Saturday where there will be a “homecoming” event from 1-2pm with free hot dogs etc.
  2. Treasurer Renee McMahon provided a treasurer's report.
  3. Renee McMahon and VP Debbie Bowman gave us an update on the Barnes & Noble fundraiser. Art therapist Peggy Leder, who holds an art show at Barnes & Noble every year, has invited PASE to participate this year. The fundraiser will take place over Mother's Day weekend (May 7th - 10th). PASE will receive 15% of the proceeds of any sales made during that time where the customer presents a PASE coupon. A free activity, where children can make picture frames as gifts for Mother’s Day, will take place at Barnes & Noble on Saturday, May 9th from 1pm -2pm.
  4. Lynn Maass provided a report on the ebay fundraiser, which has now raised over $4,000.
  5. Renee McMahon read the list of officer nominations which are as follows:
    President: Deborah Bowman
    Vice President: Renee McMahon
    Treasurer: Bianca DeGaudenzi
    Shelter Rock Representative: Linda Haase Kane
    Munsey Park Representative: Nancy Paganucci
    Middle School/High School Representative: open – volunteer needed
    CPSE Representative – open – volunteer needed
  6. Lynn Maass will remain as secretary for the second year of her two year term.
  7. PASE member Vicky Gribbin spoke about a new foundation she is starting called the “Sensory Solution Foundation” and asked PASE members to sign a petition asking for legislation requiring school districts to: a) create visual kinesthetic classes in every grade so weak auditory learners are taught to their strongest ability and b) create mandatory, evidence based sensory ability profiles for class placement and school related services using auditory processing disorder testing.
  8. Dr. Carla Feinstein gave a very informative presentation on literacy development and what parents can do to make a difference in their child’s reading skills. She answered lots of questions from the audience.
  9. Next month's meeting is May 12. PASE officer elections will take place.

 

Minutes for PASE meeting on March 17, 2009

  1. President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order. She informed us that Art Therapist Peggy Leder, who holds an art show at Barnes & Noble every year, has invited PASE to participate this year. The fundraiser would take place over Mother's Day weekend (May 7th - 10th). PASE would receive 15% of the proceeds of any sales made during that time where the customer presents a PASE coupon. An art activity would take place on the Saturday, May 9th. Stella also informed us that there was very good feedback from Dr. Kendall and Mr. Geczik regarding the PASE sponsored faculty lectures given by Mindy Markowitz at Munsey Park and Shelter Rock Elementary Schools.
  2. VP Deborah Bowman informed everyone that Peggy Leder's Art Therapy presentation is now available for viewing on our website. Go to Meetings and Events > Past Presentations > October 14, 2008 PASE meeting > presentation to watch the 45 minute video clip. She also noted that there are links to recent newspaper articles on education and child related topics.
  3. Lynn Maass provided a report on the ebay fundraiser. During the first month of the fundraiser, 22 items have been sold for a total of $2,100.
  4. Renee McMahon provided the Treasurer's report.
  5. Bianca DeGaudenzi drew everyone's attention to the free Introduction to ABA and Autism Workshops offered by the Elija Foundation. She noted that information on how to sign up for a workshop is on the Elija website. Links to the Elija website and to other great websites can be found on the Manhasset PASE website.
  6. Special Education Director Allison Rushforth gave a very informative presentation on the Manhasset School District Special Education budget for 2009/10 and answered questions. Allison Rushforth also noted that on May 26th, BOCES will be offering a training session for parents interested in becoming parent members. Contact Josephine D’Amico in the Manhasset Special Education Department at (516) 267 7678 for more information.
  7. Next month's meeting is April 21st. PASE officer nominations will take place and there will be a presentation by speech therapist Dr. Carla Feinstein.


No Minutes for PASE meeting on February 10th, 2009 - Camp & Summer Services Fair

Minutes for PASE meeting January 13th, 2009

  1. PASE President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and drew everyone’s attention to the informational handouts available (information on the respite program at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, a Wrightslaw handout and a handout regarding social interactions from Autism Speaks). She announced that Andrew Doro is back in the District as the Interim Assistant Director of Special Education until a replacement can be found for Barbara Longo.
  2. Treasurer Renee McMahon provided a financial report.
  3. VP Deborah Bowman gave an update on the PASE website, which will be going live at manhassetpase.org within the next two weeks. It is 75% - 80% complete and will be a great resource for parents. Feedback is welcome. Debbie Bowman also provided an update on money raised through Onecause.com.
  4. Shelter Rock Representative Bianca DeGaudenzi reported that PASE had accepted Principal Robert Gezcik’s offer to provide a speaker for one of his full faculty conferences on a special education related topic. On Monday, January 12th, Mindy Markowitz, OTR/L gave a very informative presentation to the faculty of Shelter Rock regarding sensory strategies in the classroom. She has agreed to give a similar presentation to the faculty of Munsey Park on February 2nd at Dr. Kendall’s request.
  5. Lynn Maass spoke about PASE’s new fundraising endeavor. Manhasset PASE is now registered as a charitable organization with ebay through Mission Fish. PASE is now soliciting donations of gently used name brand items from the community to be auctioned on ebay. Donations of designer handbags, accessories, jewelry, designer shoes and other gently used luxury brand name items can be made at future meetings or dropped off at other locations. For more information, potential donors can e-mail donations@manhassetpase.org.
  6. Linda Kane spoke about upcoming Kindergarten registration meetings, where information about PASE will be made available.
  7. Allison Rushforth spoke about letters which will be going out to the families of 12th grade students regarding meetings to be scheduled with VESID counselors regarding post-secondary education services. She also announced that the installation of the FM systems for all the Kindergarten classes in the district except the self- contained classes has been completed. Training for the Kindergarten teachers will be on the afternoon of February 12th. A parent asked whether Mrs. Tempesta would be getting one for her 12:1:2 class at Munsey Park since she has expressed an interest in having one. A discussion followed regarding the fact that Mrs. Tempesta currently has 12 students in class which is considered a large enough group to need an FM system for group lessons. PASE discussed donating the necessary funding to provide an FM system for Mrs. Tempesta’s classroom for this calendar year.
  8. The main part of the meeting then commenced, which was a workshop to collect information from parents to develop a PASE sponsored Social Skills program to meet the needs of Manhasset students. Parents shared their ideas and suggestions. Renee McMahon volunteered to contact potential vendors who could run such a program.
  9. Our next monthly meeting will be held on February 10th at 9.30 am in the High School Boardroom and will be our Summer Camp & Services Fair.

Minutes for PASE meeting December 16th, 2008

  1. PASE President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order. She outlined substantial changes for the funding of Special Education through taxes in NY State that have been proposed and are being reviewed. The complete document can be found at www.cptr.state.ny.us/reports/CPTRFinalReport_20081201.pdf Potential problem areas include: Removal of minimum mandates for Speech; Combination of school districts with fewer than 1,000 children; Reduction of distance for out of district placement transportation from 75 to 50 miles; Give BOCES more power and remove ceiling caps for Administrator salaries in BOCES; and Use of consortiums of providers to lower costs.
  2. PASE’s guest speaker, Mackenzie Schaefer, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, gave an informative presentation explaining how a teacher for the visually impaired assists a student. She also fielded questions and help define the differences between a teacher for the visually impaired and a vision therapist.
  3. Our next monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday January 13th at 9:30 am in the High School Boardroom. We will be discussing developing a Social Skills program to meet the needs that exist in the district outside of those students covered by the CAPP program.

Minutes for PASE meeting November 18th, 2008

  1. PASE President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and announced that on November 20th the Elija Foundation, together with the Nassau Suffolk Autism Society of America, is hosting a cocktail party at the Sands Point Preserves Stables to benefit “Hooves for Hope”, an adaptive horse riding program. She also encouraged PASE members to attend “Guns & Hoses 2”, a comedy night which will take place on Saturday January 10th at the Jeanne Rimsky Theater in the Landmark Building in Port Washington. Proceeds will also benefit the Elija School.
  2. Vice President Deborah Bowman gave an update on the PASE website, which will be rolled out later this year. The official, publicized launch will be in January 2009.
  3. Guest Speaker Mindy Markowitz, OTR/L, gave a very informative presentation on Handwriting. The presentation covered efficient grasps and grip patterns, developmental milestones, different writing implements, correct posture, pencil grippers and incline boards. The presentation was recorded and will eventually be viewable on the PASE website. Mindy answered a number of questions from the audience and provided some excellent suggestions.
  4. Our next monthly meeting will be held on December 16th at 9.30 am in the High School Boardroom. The topic will be Vision Therapy.

Minutes for PASE meeting, October 14, 2008

  1. PASE President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and announced that October is Sensory Integration Month.
  2. Current and past Shelter Rock Representatives, Bianca DeGaudenzi and Deborah Bowman, reported back on a positive meeting they held recently with Mr. Geczik regarding the mainstream opportunities of students from the self contained classes. The specific issues discussed involved conducting sensitivity training in mainstream classes, potentially assigning buddies for lunch and recess, and including these classified students on class lists and in class photos with the class they mainstream with for part of the day in addition to their assigned self contained class. They also report that creating a sensory gym at Shelter Rock is on hold due to space considerations, but that OTs are free to use the stage area when the auditorium is not in use.
  3. Bianca DeGaudenzi reminded all present that the Second Annual Elementary Parent Breakfast will be held at her home, 21 Durand Place in Munsey Park, on Monday October 20th at 9:45 am. The purpose of the event is to discuss the success of current programs and any issues or concerns parents would like to see highlighted. Last year’s discussion resulted in meetings with Mr. Geczik and the development of the Guidelines/Flow Chart for Questions Regarding Classified Students document.
  4. Year to date, Treasurer Renee McMahon has collected dues for 25 members. Also, Deborah Bowman and Renee McMahon attended a conference on Sunday, October 12th regarding biomedical approaches to autism and brought back various articles and catalogues.
  5. Vice President Deborah Bowman highlighted that PASE is now a registered charity on http://www.onecause.com. PASE is asking community members to register so that a percentage of internet purchases made with common vendors (e.g., Amazon.com, Gap.com, Landsend.com, 1800Flowers.com) will be returned to PASE.
  6. PASE’s guest speaker, Peggy Leder, MA, ATR, gave an informative presentation defining Art Therapy. By discussing her approach and process with clients, and displaying various pieces of art, she demonstrated the unique talents of an art therapist in combining the skills of a psychologist, OT and artist to enable clients to express their feelings in a positive, creative way.
  7. Our next monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday November 18th at 9:30 am in the High School Boardroom. Our guest speaker, Mindy Markowitz, OTR/L will focus the discussion on Handwriting Help & Strategies. We hope you can attend.

Minutes for PASE meeting, September 16, 2008

  1. President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and introduced the Board Members, the Director of Special Education and the Assistant Director of Special Education.
  2. Treasurer Renee McMahon gave the Treasurer’s report
  3. Vice President Deborah Bowman reported on her meeting with Mr. Geczik regarding guidelines for parents dealing with various issues concerning classified students. A flow chart, directing parents to the correct contact person for specific issues, was handed out to parents. Dr. Kendall will also be asked for her input and the final document will be posted on the PASE website.
  4. Bianca DeGaudenzi (Shelter Rock Representative) and Renee McMahon (Munsey Park Representative) announced that they would be hosting a Parent Breakfast on Monday October 20th to discuss special education issues involving the two elementary schools.
  5. Deborah Bowman reported on progress on the PASE website, which will be launched in the Fall. She also outlined topics for this year’s PASE meetings, which will focus on practical tools, techniques and strategies. The guest for the October 14th meeting will be Peggy Leader and will focus on art therapy. The guest for the November 18th meeting will be Occupational Therapist Mindy Markowitz and will focus on handwriting.
  6. Manhasset Superintendent Charles Cardillo provided a summary of the construction projects carried out at all three school buildings over the summer as a result of the bond referendum approved in February 2007. He also reported on phase 1 of the Smart Board installations, with 85 Smart Boards now having been installed in classrooms. Mr. Cardillo also talked about Smart Board staff development/teacher training, which took place over the summer.
  7. Director of Special Education Allison Rushforth provided an update on staffing and the 9 new special education hires for the 2008-2009 school year (details in the September newsletter). She also talked about how she and her staff will be focusing on building Instructional Support Teams and facilitating the Response to Intervention process. Co-teaching will also be another area that will be focused on this year, as well as the CPSE to CSE transition and the highschool to post-secondary transition. Allison Rushforth also reported on the extended school day/ social skills (CAPP) program which is now available at all 3 schools for qualifying classified students or for children wishing to participate as typical or “target peers”.
  8. Allison Rushforth spoke about the new IEP format which will begin in 1/1/2009 and the need for parent education on this topic.
  9. Allison Rushforth also provided an update on the interview process for the school psychologist/behaviorist position. Five candidates were interviewed over the summer and PASE Board Member Bianca DeGaudenzi was part of the committee. The right candidate was not found and the District will continue to work with consultants until the position is filled.
  10. The issue concerning the need for logs documenting when related services have (or have not) been provided was raised once again by parents. Allison Rushforth reported that she was looking into whether it would be possible to run a report off from IEP direct so that this information can be provided to parents when requested.
  11. Next PASE meeting will be October 14, 2008 at 9.30am.

Minutes for PASE meeting, June 10, 2008

  1. PASE President Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order. New Board Members were installed for the 2008-2009 school year as follows:
    President Stella Spanakos
    Vice President Deborah Bowman
    Secretary Lynn Maass
    Treasurer Renee McMahon
    Munsey Park Representative Renee McMahon
    Shelter Rock Representative Biana DeGaudenzi
    Middle & High School Representative Ann Welsh
    CPSE Representative Linda Kane
  2. Treasurer Renee McMahon gave the Treasurer’s report
  3. Outgoing Shelter Rock Representative Deborah Bowman reported on her meeting with Mr. Gezcik regarding frequently asked parent questions and issues. A “workflow” document directing parents to the correct contact person is being developed which will be posted on the PASE website.
  4. Deborah Bowman reported on the progress of the PASE website, which will tentatively be launched in September 2008.
  5. Charles Cardillo answered questions regarding the distribution of Smart Boards, specifically relating to the 7 Smart Boards for the self contained classrooms which will be funded via separate grants. Mr. Cardillo also discussed plans for Smart Board staff development/teacher training, which is scheduled to begin in late August.
  6. Allison Rushforth provided an update on staffing and new hires for the 2008-2009 school year. She also discussed the in District 2008 Summer Program and services provided.
  7. Allison Rushforth reported that beginning 1/1/2009 there will be a new IEP format. Ms. Rushforth is on a committee currently working with the New York State Education Department to assist in developing the new format.
  8. Next PASE meeting will be September 16, 2008 at 9.30am.

Minutes for PASE Meeting, April 15, 2008

  1. Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and reviewed the available handouts. The CDC has an autism website: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.htm
  2. Renee McMahon read the March 11, 2008 minutes, which were approved. There is no new information for the Treasurer Report.
  3. Renee McMahon read the officer nominations for the proposed 2008-2009 Board:
    President Stella Spanakos
    Vice President Deborah Bowman
    Secretary Lynn Maass
    Treasurer Renee McMahon
    Munsey Park Representative Renee McMahon
    Shelter Rock Representative Bianca DeGaudenzi
    Middle & High School Representative Ann Welsh
    CPSE Representative Linda Kane
    No new nominations were proposed. The procedure for proxy voting and general voting at the May 13th Annual Meeting were reviewed.
  4. Bianca DeGaudenzi, CPSE Liaison reported that Stella was on a Comedy Central autism benefit. The sixth graders at Shelter Rock held a walk for autism. Ms. Capabianca held sensitivity training for the third graders at Shelter Rock & received very positive feedback.
  5. Ann Welsh gave a very informative and detailed presentation on dyslexia and reading difficulties. Please see the Newsletter for more details.
  6. Allison Rushforth gave an overview of the RTI (Response to Intervention) process, which every school must have in place by 2011. Please see the Newsletter for more details.
  7. Administration left the meeting and parent discussion continued for about 30 minutes.
  8. Please join us for the Annual Meeting and election of Officers on May 13th, 2008 at 9:30 am.

PASE of Manhasset, Inc. EIN: 41-2266494

Minutes for PASE Meeting, February 12, 2008

  1. Stella Spanakos introduced Mindy Moskowitz, OTR/L, occupational therapist at the HS/MS. This month’s presentation is on Sensory Integration Dysfunction.
  2. Mindy Moskowitz defined sensory integration as taking in, sorting out and connecting information from the world around us. She then went on to describe how sensory integration impacts classroom learning and performance.
  3. Allison Rushforth outlined the Special Education budget changes for the 2008-2009 school year.
  4. Renee McMahon proposed the following amendments to the by-laws to be voted on at the March 11th 2008 meeting:
    1. Addition of Vice President and President Emeritus as board officers.
    2. Increase in annual membership from $20 to $25 in keeping with the rate of SCA Membership

Minutes for PASE Meeting, January 15, 2008

  1. Stella Spanakos introduced this month’s topic of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) by playing a presentation made to the Board of Education last June to honor Anthony DeMarinis for his work with the Outpost student store in the HS/MS. Dr. Bobby Newman, our speaker, helped establish the program as part of the “Lifeskills” curriculum.
  2. Dr. Bobby Newman presented PASE with 5 books that have been donated to the collection at the Manhasset Public Library. They are:
    1. Graduated Applied Behavioral Analysis, Newman
    2. Words from Those Who Care: Further Case Studies of ABA with People with Autism, Newman
    3. Behavioral Detectives, Newman & Reinecke
    4. Behaviorask: Straight Answers to your ABA Programming Questions, Newman, Reinecke, Hammond
    5. Behaviorspeak, Newman, Reeve, Reeve, Ryan
  3. Dr. Bobby Newman provided an entertaining and informative overview of ABA, which is a scientific approach to education and psychology. It is not specifically meant for autism. It is concerned with improvement and increase in skills and a reduction in unwanted behaviors. Data is collected and analyzed to guide decisions about the programs to implement for a child and to subsequently measure the success of the programs.

Minutes for PASE Meeting, December 12, 2007

  1. Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order.
  2. Dr. Michael Elice gave an informative presentation regarding how diet, environmental toxins, allergies and the health of a person's digestive and immune systems can all impact learning disabilities.

Minutes for PASE Meeting, November 13, 2007

  1. Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order.
  2. Stella read a letter received from Cindy Cardinal on behalf of the Board of Education (Appendix 1).
  3. Renée McMahon waived the oral review of the Minutes from the October 23, 2007, as they were distributed to all members on November 8th, 2007. They were approved by those present.
  4. Renée McMahon presented the Financial Report.
  5. The Oct. Newsletter focus is ADHD.
  6. Allison Rushforth provided some information to help prepare for Parent Teacher conferences in the Newsletter and at our meeting.
  7. Items discussed at the Shelter Rock parent meeting have been sent to Allison and Mr. Gezcik by Debbie Bowman. PASE will be working with Administration to develop a Frequently Asked Questions document and flow chart for resolution of questions. We feel that this will help the communication process.
  8. Laura Fine, District Coordinator for Special Education presented information about her background and role in the district. She described the Instructional Support Team process and how data is collected and used for instruction. She briefly described research-based programs. Many parents had specific questions about building programs during the discussion. Appendix 1 - 1 -

Minutes for PASE Meeting, October 23, 2007

  1. Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order.
  2. Renée McMahon waived the oral review of the Minutes from the September 25, 2007, as they were distributed to all members on October 4th, 2007. They were approved by those present.
  3. Renée McMahon presented the Financial Report.
  4. Debbie Bowman hosted a Shelter Rock parents’ breakfast on 10/19. She is compiling a list of issues for Allison Rushforth and Mr. Geczik. An official mechanism for feedback and reporting issues is necessary based on the number of items that revolve around communication.
  5. Lynn Maass is scheduling a breakfast for Munsey Park specific issues (November 8th).
  6. Ann Welsh has been taking phone calls from High School parents. She shared their concerns with the new Middle School Consultant Teacher model due to the Special Education Teacher pushing into the general education class on alternate days.
  7. Bianca DeGaudenzi noted that CPSE parents are interested in learning about the in-district programs. Allison discussed that there will be two meetings, one for pre-k parents of incoming kindergarteners in Dec/Jan and one in April.
  8. Allison Rushforth demonstrated and explained the new links in the district website for Special Education http://www.manhasset.k12.ny.us/departments.cfm?subpage=108
  9. Allison also demonstrated that there is an E-news sign up on the Home Page http://www.manhasset.k12.ny.us/index.cfm
  10. Allison reviewed the changes to the IDEA regulations. The details can be found in the distributed document or at http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/specialed/policy/IDEAamends.htm
  11. The disability focus for the meeting is Deafness and Hearing Impairment. Lynn Maass, board member and parent and Allison Goldstein, district Teacher of the Deaf presented. Lynn candidly described her son’s issues. Allison Goldstein described her responsibilities of direct service (students classified deaf and hearing impaired) and oversight (students classified ADHD, central auditory processing and learning disability) for 18 children in the district. These include: servicing teachers on a weekly basis, training, pre-teaching and post-teaching children. FM systems are used in classrooms to amplify the speaker and reduce the impact of background noise. Systems can run $1,000 per classroom. See the newsletter for an article on this topic.
  12. Parents asked if FM systems could be used outside the classroom. Depending on the student, they are used in gym, but generally not in the cafeteria because it is too loud.
  13. Administration left the meeting and parent discussion continued for about 30 minutes. Please note that specific issues raised at this time will not be part of official minutes until subsequently raised by building liaison officers in more general terms. - 1 -

Minutes for PASE Meeting, September 25, 2007

  1. Stella Spanakos called the meeting to order and introduced the Board:
    Stella Spanakos President
    Renee McMahon Treasurer
    Ann Welsh Manhasset High School
    Lynn Maass Munsey Park
    Deborah Bowman Shelter Rock
    Bianca DeGaudenzi CPSE
    OPEN Secretary
    OPEN Middle School
  2. Renée McMahon reviewed the Minutes from the June 12, 2007. They were approved by those present.
  3. Renée McMahon reviewed the changes to the By-Laws. They were approved by those present.
  4. Renée McMahon presented the Financial Report for the 2006-2007 school year.
  5. Allison Rushforth gave an update on the PASE website. The Manhasset School District website will have a link for PASE, including an e-mail distribution list and links to related sights. We are targeting to have it in place by mid-October.
  6. Debbie Bowman gave an overview of the new PASE Newsletter:
    • Message from the President/Board
    • Monthly article focusing on a disability
    • Director’s Column for updates and district news
    • List of book and internet site resources
    • September’s focus is biomedical issues and improvements through special diets
    • Schedule of meeting and events will also be published in the Manhasset Press. Any person interested in forming a Publicity Committee should notify the Board.
  7. Charlie Cardillo welcomed PASE members for the school year and emphasized that the School Board and Administrators are all available and responsive to questions and issues. We should feel free to approach the administration for clarification if we hear rumors.
  8. Allison Rushforth gave an update:
    • Laura Fine is the District Coordinator for Special Education from K to 12, but her primary initial responsibility will focus on the elementary schools. She has begun working with the building Instructional Support Teams (IST).
    • Stewart Grabelsky is allocating 2 periods a day for the support of students, parents and teachers on the secondary level.
    • Allison Goldstein is a teacher for the deaf, hired to service children in district with hearing disabilities; currently there are 9 children. This service was previously provided by consultants. She has a relationship with the manufacturers of the FM systems and along with the speech therapists; she will oversee children’s personal FM systems.
    • The extended day program began on 9/11. It is located at Shelter Rock and runs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2:50 to 4:50. Transportation home is provided. 7 children are currently enrolled. TAs received 60 hours of training over the summer. Mike Darcy, Founder of the Institute for Children with Autism, is coming to Shelter Rock (7 pm 9/25) to give an overview for parents of potential peers, including siblings, in grades K, 1, and 2. Once identified, peers will be trained and introduced by late October. The program is seeking 24 children from Shelter Rock only. If appropriate, extended school days services are still being provided for children in the home.
      • There are 7 self contained classes in the district:
        1. 1 in the Middle School/High School
        2. 4 at Shelter Rock
          1. one 8:1:3 for K-1 (Mrs. Capabianco)
          2. two 12:1:2 for K-1, 2-3, and one 12:1:1 for 4-6 (Mrs. McGlone, Mrs. Kline & Dr. Pessin respectively)
        3. 2 at Munsey Park
          1. one 8:1:3 for K-1 (Mrs. Lockman)
          2. one 12:1:2 for K-1 (Mrs. Tempesta)
      • Due to new State regulations, Manhasset District must now service approximately 58 non-resident students with disabilities placed by their parents in Manhasset private schools (Our Lady of Grace and St. Mary’s Elementary and High Schools). Barbara Longo is working with the building principals to oversee the delivery of services to these students. (There already was a non-notification issue with NYC students). 14 Manhasset students are now serviced by other districts.
      • Governor Spitzer signed into law that in the case of an impartial hearing, the school district has the burden of proof unless the child is in a parental placement.
      • Distribution of the new, 42-page procedural safeguards notice; a booklet by the NYS PTA and NYSUT (it does not include all new regulations); and a Nassau Community College document. N.B. – extra copies will be brought to the next PASE meeting or request from ManhassetPASE@aol.com
      • A presentation was made to the School Board on 9/20 regarding Manhasset being cited for disproportionality, in two of 14 areas NYSED, New York State Education Department, is focusing on for compliance. www.manhasset.k12.ny.us/news.cfm?story=604
        1. Specifically, in 2005-2006, of the 140 African American students in district, 67 were classified for Special Education.
        2. In 2006-2007, 70 of 134 African American students in district were classified.
        3. An African American child in our district is 4 times more likely to be classified than the NYS average.
        4. If we do not demonstrate that the proper interventions are in place, the Federal Government may deny 15% of IDEA funds that are targeted for early (pre-classification) interventions.
        5. The NYU Steinhardt Center will be working with Manhasset, Uniondale and Huntington to address the situation. They will:
          1. Create a district team of 20 staff and community members to conduct a root-cause analysis over 4 days, spending 6 hours each day studying interventions pursued prior to classification, i.e., the response to intervention process.
          2. Examine curricula and classrooms for cultural responsiveness.
          3. Create and administer with the District Team a district-wide training program.
  9. Charlie Cardillo noted that the disproportionality was a sub-group within African Americans, specifically, economically disadvantaged. The district is reviewing K through 2 fundamentals of the reading program. Despite already being a high-performing district, there is the potential to move all children up in level. Any gaps in reading skill that are present at the end of 3rd grade become formidable over time. This is really a general education issue that impacts the entire district. Also, as we get into budget season, with a budget for 453 classified students, various groups may challenge different aspects of the disproportionality issue.
  10. Helen Weitman asked about the new state laws. Allison will present on the changes next PASE meeting. The emergency law has been adopted, districts are currently commenting on it and it should be official in October. Copies of the changes that were handed out last spring are available.
  11. If anyone is disabled in your family, family and caregivers can get free passes to Federal Parks.
  12. Allison Rushforth is scheduling two evening meetings, dates to be announced, November, our social workers will be presenting information from various organizations/agencies that provide services within Nassau County and January, transition beyond secondary school, including specifics about SSI forms and establishing guardianship, if appropriate.
  13. Administration left the meeting and parent discussion continued for about 30 minutes. Please note, specific issues raised at this time will not be part of official minutes until subsequently raised by building liaison officers in more general terms. - 3 -

 

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Past Presentations

February 10, 2009 PASE Meeting - Camp & Summer Services Fair - If you missed our Camp & Summer Services Fair, we have information on the programs provided by the following vendors: Lindamood-Bell, Mid-Island Y JCC Camp, Red Robin Country Day Camp, The Actor's Garage, Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center - Roslyn, Manhasset Special Education Programs

November 18, 2008 PASE Meeting - Handwriting Help & Strategies with Speaker Mindy Markowitz OTR/L

October 14, 2008 PASE Meeting - Art Therapy with Speaker Peggy Leder - View presentation in full here online.

Beginning Steps to a Healthier Diet - Helpful Notes from December 11, 2007 PASE Meeting

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Photo Gallery

July 12, 2011 - PASE presents check for Jumpstart Reading Program to the Board of Education.

Superintendant Charlie Cardillo, BOE President Carlo Prinzo, PASE President Debbie Bowman, PASE VP Bianca DeGaudenzi, Allison Rushforth, BOE Craig Anderson and BOE Regina Rule

June 10, 2011 - Plandome Women's Club donates to PASE's Summer Reading Program.

SR Officer Linda Kane, Jeanine Ferrone and PASE President Debbie Bowman

May 15, 2011 - Manhasset Community Fund donates to PASE's Summer Reading Program.

PASE President Debbie Bowman, MCF President Michelle Tempesta, PASE VP Renee McMahon

March 6, 2010 - PASE Wine Tasting Event to raise funds for our after school PASE Friendship Club.

Event Chairs Wilson & Lisa Santos & Linda Kane
Event Chairs Lisa & Wilson Santos and Linda Kane

Raffle Winners
Two of the PASE Raffle Winners: Grace Mahler and Johnna Lombard.

The Johnsons and the McMahons
Rosemary Johnson and her husband with Kevin & Renee McMahon.

Wine Tasting
Joe from Varietal Wines discusses the wine.

Wine tasting

The PASE Board
The PASE Board from left to right: Stella Spanakos, Nancy Paganucci, Lisa Santos, Renee McMahon, Deborah Bowman, Linda Kane, Bianca DeGaudenzi, Lynn Maass

Linda Kane & guests
Grace Mahler, Linda Kane, Joanne Weilep, and Leslie Ghize.

PASE Board Renee McMahon, Nancy Paganucci, Bianca DeGaudenzi & Lynn MaassPASE Officers Renee McMahon, Nancy Paganucci, Bianca DeGaudenzi and Lynn Maass

 

June 2, 2009 - PASE Luncheon honoring Stella Spanakos, PASE President 2001-2009, at Plandome Country Club

Ellen Lockman, Dr. Vicki Klein, Mary Ann Klein with Stella
Munsey Park Teacher Ellen Lockman and psychologist Dr. Vicki Klein and Shelter Rock Teacher Mary Ann Klein with Stella

PASE Board Member Linda Kane with Event Chairperson Ruth Geismar
PASE Board Member Linda Kane with Event Chairperson Ruth GeismarMunsey Park Principal Dr. Jean Kendall with Stella Spanakos
Munsey Park Principal Dr. Jean Kendall with Stella Spanakos

PASE Board 2009 2010 Bianca DeGaudenzi, Linda Kane, Lynn Maass, Stella Spanakos, Deborah Bowman, Renee McMahon, Nancy Paganucci
2009-2010 PASE Board - Left to Right: Bianca DeGaudenzi, Linda Kane, Lynn Maass, Stella Spanakos, Deborah Bowman, Renee McMahon, Nancy Paganucci

Allison Rushforth, Stella Spanakos, Andrew Doro
Executive Director of Special Education Allison Rushforth, Stella and Interim Assistant Director Andrew Doro

Superintendant Charlie Cardillo with Stella Spanakos and Middle School High School Principal Dean Schlanger and Shelter Rock Principal Robert Geczik
Superintendant Charlie Cardillo, Stella, Middle School/High School Principal Dean Schlanger and Shelter Rock Principal Robert Geczik (from left to right, clockwise)

PASE Members Mary Jane Whalen and Carol Kyriannis
PASE Members Mary Jane Whalen and Carol Kyriannis

Former PASE Board members Ann Welsh, Stella Spanakos, Rosemarie Ciani
Former PASE President Candy Cohen, Ann Welsh, Stella Spanakos, Rosemarie Ciani

 

May 9, 2009 - PASE Bookfair at Barnes & Noble: Mother's Day Craft Activity


 

May 7, 2009 - PASE Bookfair at Barnes & Noble: Power of Positive Thinking Art Exhibition

Barnes & Noble Bookfair Art Exhibition
PASE Board Member Linda Kane, Allison Rushforth, Dr. Jean Kendall, Peggy Leder, Laura Fine (& daughter), Stella Spanakos

Andrew King
One of Peggy Leder's student artists, Andrew King with his mother, Loren King and his father following the award presentation.

February 26, 2009 - PASE check presentation to Board of Education for classroom FM System at Munsey Park

PASE Check Presentation

February 4, 2009 - The Women's Club of Flower Hill presents PASE with a check

February 2, 2009 - PASE Sponsored Munsey Park Faculty Conference - Mindy Markowitz, OTR/L - Sensory Strategies for The Classroom

February 2, 2009 - Munsey Park - PASE Check Presentation

November 16, 2008 - Blazing Trails Four Mile Run For Autism

October 14, 2008 - PASE Meeting - Art Therapy - Speaker Peggy Leder

June 12, 2008 - Manhasset School Board meeting - PASE Check Presentation

May 12, 2008 - Shelter Rock Workshop

Shelter Rock Workshop May 2008

December 11, 2007 - Biomedical Presentation - Dr. Michael Elice

Presentation to Dr. Michael Elice, December 2007

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