(Photo Source: Chelsea Horak of The Cortland Voice).
The Cincinnatus Central School District Board of Education (BOE) convened last Thursday to discuss the end of the year, and hear presentations on new programs.
End of Year Recognition
CCSD Superintendent Todd Freeman opened with remarks about the district’s dedicated athletes, noting that 100 students fill 181 spots on sports teams throughout the school year.
Freeman also recognized this year’s valedictorian Cason Stafford, and salutatorian Isabella Gardener, with comments on their grade-point averages and extracurricular activities.
Also recognized was BOE member Richard Dodge, who has served for nine years. He will be retiring as a member at the end of his term this month.
The board heard from teacher Amanda Silva, who presented medals and certificates to four students who received Seals of Biliteracy in French. The students had to receive an 85 on the NYS English regents exam and maintain an 85 average in both English and French in grades 11-12 in order to qualify for the designation. The process concluded with an English paper and a presentation in French before a panel of teachers.
Esports Emerge at Cincy
The board heard about the newly established ESports program via a presentation by student Kooper Vosberg and his classmates.
Vosberg explained that the program started when a grant became available to establish a gaming lab in schools. The students went through the application and grant writing process, and were not discouraged when they were denied, instead taking their presentation to the administration. The school granted enrichment funds to allow the ESports club to create a multi-purpose gaming lab, which is used by several classes.
The program was able to join the High School Esports League (HSEL), adopting their curriculum and competing in tournaments. The HSEL emphasizes healthy eating and sleeping habits and promotes good manners in order to encourage a positive gaming environment. The program also teaches students skills in budgeting, scheduling, and communication.
This year a Cincinnatus team ranked 22nd in New York State in Rocket League. Students can expect to find ESports in more colleges, with some beginning to offer classes and even majors revolving around the emerging industry. According to the students’ presentation, tournaments and competitions offer prize pools ranging from $300,000 to $30 million.
Drone Program Taking Off
Teacher Jonathan Stacey presented on the drone program Cincinnatus recently started. Students learned to fly, maintain, and repair drones safely, and even received recreational licenses.
The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) was developed by the FAA and is required in order to fly the class of drones students used in the program, which is the first of its kind in the state.
In addition to flying drones, students also learned to design and 3d print replacement parts and made their own obstacles to navigate through. The program plans to expand in the future, working with CNY Drones to participate in drone soccer, competitions, and tech meetups with other students.
According to Stacey’s presentation, those who participate in the program can apply their flying skills to careers in real estate, media, security, agriculture, engineering and other fields.
