Alita McCoy Zuber

This document outlines the 2025-2026 Long Range Action Plans for the Ossining Public School District, aiming to set a course for excellence through collaboration, connection, and communication. The plan's vision is to establish a model education system that prioritizes equity, cultivates a deep passion for lifelong learning, and prepares students to contribute positively to the world. Core priorities include Multiple Literacies, Relevant Learning & Student Choice, Culture of Care, Family & Community Engagement, Equity, Teaching & Learning, and Data Informed Practices. The plan seeks to ensure excellence for all students by upholding high standards, delivering quality instruction, and fostering active, responsible citizenship.

The Board of Education held an annual workshop to conduct a detailed review and discussion of the proposed 2026-2027 school district budget. Presentations covered departmental budgets, including buildings and grounds, transportation, technology, and athletics. Principals from various elementary and secondary schools presented their specific budget overviews. Further discussions focused on curriculum, instructional needs, undistributed expenses, the proposed tax levy, and the long-term impact on future budgets, with an emphasis on preserving programs while staying within the tax cap.

The Board received a Superintendent's update covering student achievements in robotics, science, music, and various school activities. A tenure appointment was granted to a professional staff member. The Board held a work session on equity and budget planning for the upcoming school year, specifically addressing tax caps and revenue projections. Several business and office matters were resolved, including a resolution advocating for a health insurance reserve, the disposal of furniture, and participation in cooperative bidding. The Board also addressed personnel matters, including staff appointments, resignations, and volunteer approvals. Additionally, the Board adopted a new policy on automated external defibrillators and revised a policy regarding time out and physical restraint.

The meeting featured student presentations, including an update from the student ex-officio on various school events and milestones, such as student athlete signings, spirit week, and upcoming academic testing. The Engineering Club presented a year-end review, discussing their competition season, outreach initiatives, and challenges with build season efficiency, while requesting additional volunteer access. The performing arts department highlighted various student achievements, including music education recognition, media production awards, and recent theatrical and visual arts showcases. Additionally, the Board discussed the designation of a former church as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) classroom for performing arts, which qualified for state building aid.

This document presents a detailed overview of the Ossining Community Schools' initiatives, particularly focusing on OPrime and the Family Engagement Team. It outlines six core pillars guiding their work: Family & Community Engagement, Teaching & Learning, Data Literacy, Equity, Multiple Literacies & Relevant Learning with Student Choice, and a Culture of Care. The document also provides a comprehensive timeline of the Community School model's development from 2015 through planned activities in 2025, with future planning mentioned for 2026-2027, highlighting progress in community partnerships, program expansion, and the evolving role of Family Engagement Specialists.