Danny Gonzalez

The meeting focused on the certification of the 2026-27 school district budget, with an acknowledgment of community support and efforts by the business office and administrative staff. Key agenda items included the approval of a personnel report covering various appointments and leaves, the first reading of revised policies from the 5000 series regarding business operations, and the adoption of the school budget vote and election. Additionally, the Board authorized an agreement with the Town of Harrison and approved a contract for switchboard upgrades at the high school.

The Instructional Technology Plan for Harrison Central School District outlines the strategic use of technology to advance student learning and district operations. It focuses on three primary goals: strategically integrating instructional technology (including AI) to enhance teaching, learning, engagement, differentiation, and equitable resource access; providing ongoing, high-quality professional learning for educators to ensure proficiency and innovation in technology use; and continuously enhancing a secure, reliable, and scalable technology infrastructure. This plan aims to leverage technology as a driver of student learning, equity, and continuous improvement, supporting inquiry-based learning within an International Baccalaureate framework to improve student achievement and strengthen instructional practices.

The board meeting featured presentations from the Harrison Educational Foundation, which awarded three grants to support student programs, including CO2 probes for science inquiry, the modernization of the high school planetarium, and mobile sensory support systems. The board received updates on student achievements in DECA, contemporary art exhibitions, and music education recognitions. Furthermore, administrative updates were provided regarding teacher recruitment, construction of portable classrooms, and legislative advocacy efforts. Discussion also highlighted successful collaboration between the district and other educational institutions regarding personal project models and multicultural units.

The board meeting included an executive session to discuss student and contractual matters. Key agenda items included the acceptance of a gift from the Stop & Shop A+ Awards Program for elementary school operations, the adoption of a revised school calendar, and the adoption of a revised code of conduct. The board also authorized a childcare program for children of essential employees and approved various committee minutes and recommendations. Additionally, the board approved appropriation transfers, the treasurer's report, a BOCES contract, and an amendment to the school lunch fund budget for cafeteria construction costs.

The meeting included an executive session regarding personnel matters. The Board approved various personnel report items, field trips for high school students, and CSE/CPSE minutes, recommendations, and annual reviews. Financial actions included the approval of appropriation transfers and the February Treasurer's report. The Board authorized attorneys to execute a consent judgment for tax certiorari proceedings, standardized security camera and virtual host server manufacturers, and awarded a bid for technology and audio-visual equipment while rejecting another. Additionally, the Board authorized the disposal of obsolete books.