Christina Cardella

The work session included a presentation highlighting K5 educational updates. The primary school update focused on the 'Win Time' program, detailing its structure involving classroom teachers, speech pathologists, and math coaches, and presented data showing significant student growth in math fluency, particularly in subtraction, and a resulting decrease in first-grade Academic Intervention Services (AIS) support. Significant gains were also noted in phonological awareness scores. The elementary update covered 'Enrichment for All' experiences for second and third graders, emphasizing creative problem solving, productive struggle, and developing future-ready competencies. Additionally, a presentation on the third-grade 'Monumental Math' unit showcased interdisciplinary learning connecting social studies, math, and literacy through real-world challenges.

The meeting commenced with opening formalities, including the pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for worldwide tragic losses. The board received updates regarding district activities, including kindergarteners mimicking the Thanksgiving Day parade and service learning initiatives, and elementary school activities such as service animal training, a cloud in a bottle experiment, and a winter concert preparation. Fifth graders visited the middle school to review language options, and winter sports commenced. Student updates also touched upon the music honor society and field trips to the Cradle of Aviation Museum and Long Island History. The Superintendent provided an update, following which the Director of Literacy presented on the Literacy Review Team meeting held the prior week. The team, comprising 26 members, shared summary reports on their focus areas (curriculum, MTSS/assessment, professional development/communication) and reviewed five primary literacy resources. The curriculum group narrowed its search from 12 to five resources after extensive research and vendor discussions. The team is set to continue exploring these resources digitally before vendor presentations and subsequent piloting in February. Discussions also centered on ensuring resources support knowledge building, alignment with the MCSS plan, phonics instruction bridging with comprehension, and the critical need for job-embedded professional learning to support implementation.

The meeting was the reorganizational meeting and regular session for the Board of Education. Initial proceedings included appointing a temporary chair, administering oaths of allegiance to new trustees, and conducting the election and swearing-in of the Board President and Vice President. Appointments were made for board committees and liaisons to various property associations for the 2025-2026 school year. The board authorized the use of a consent agenda for business items, district appointments, business matters, and special education matters. Key discussions included the annual review of board policies (with no substantive changes noted), the treasurer's report for May 2025, and the superintendent's report highlighting recent graduation and prom events, the administrative retreat focus areas (leadership, portrait of a graduate, technology, creativity, curiosity), and updates on summer programs like Camp Invention and SCOPE. The superintendent also announced the recommendation for two new personnel: Akira Reagan as Coordinator for Music and the Arts, and Christine Nugan for Special Education at Stuart's School. Furthermore, the board acknowledged a $5,000 award received from a math competition. Public comments primarily focused on concerns regarding the sixth-grade ELA curriculum, specifically the removal of explicit vocabulary instruction materials and the reading level of assigned texts. The administration committed to providing written responses to these detailed curriculum inquiries.

The meeting commenced with the acceptance of the agenda for the January 27th, 2026, regular session. A segment honored the retiring Commissioner Jackson, who is leaving after nearly 45 years of service, with commendations for his collaboration with the school district and dedication to student safety. The board then recognized successful fall athletic teams and individuals, including the cross country qualifier Taylor Maguire, swim team qualifiers Maddie Gart and Charlotte Coner, the varsity field hockey team (Nassau County Class B and Long Island Class B Champions), the girls varsity volleyball team (Nassau County Class Double A and Long Island Champions), the boys varsity soccer team (back-to-back New York State Champions), and the varsity football team (10th consecutive Nassau County titles and 5th consecutive Long Island Championship, setting a national consecutive win record). Several coaches received accolades, including Coach Amanda Lee (News Day Coach of the Year), Coach Debon (Nassau County Coaches Association Coach of the Year), and Coach Eder (News Day Coach of the Year, New York Giants High School Coach of the Year nominee). Coach Mike Hedles was acknowledged for his induction into the Nassau County High School Hall of Fame. Student reports highlighted events such as the band trip to Disney, Battle of the Classes, a therapy dog visit, and updates on high school, middle school (including new athletic seasons and clubs like Drone Club), and elementary/primary school activities (Steps to Success program, e-pledge of kindness). Finally, an update on the bond project was presented by representatives from Triton and the director of facilities.

The meeting included a moment of silence for Mr. Willis de la Cruz. The agenda for the November 24th, 2025 regular session was accepted. The treasures report for September 2025 was provided, detailing the cash balance, receipts, and disbursements. The superintendent report included updates on athletics, marching band, the high school fall production of Pride and Prejudice, and Curtman. A discussion on No Social November, an initiative to limit social media time, was held. The Cast Club's interactive activities with younger students were highlighted, along with Veterans Day celebrations across the schools. Upcoming performances, including Ava Nat on The Voice, were mentioned, as well as Thanksgiving celebrations in primary schools. Construction updates, the district-wide safety plan, and the transition of Mr. Curran to Hemlock were discussed. Recognition was given to school-related professionals, and Mr. McCran's upcoming retirement was announced. The agenda included policies for review, the budget calendar, transportation contracts, and donations. The scope programs were mentioned, and Mr. Ed Mueller's contributions to Veterans Day celebrations were acknowledged.