Frances Cardenas

The board accepted a trustee's resignation and approved a letter of support for a town project involving sidewalks, pedestrian crosswalks, and traffic signals for student safety. The primary focus of the session was the second budget workshop, which included detailed presentations on budget allocations for various areas such as curriculum and instruction, athletics, health services, library periodicals, English, reading, mathematics, science, and career and technical education. Specific discussion points included the phasing in of new textbooks and curriculum materials, adjustments to staffing, the purchase of new fitness equipment and technology, and the reallocation of funds to support student programs.

This document outlines the first budget workshop for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, detailing the budget development objectives and key factors influencing financial planning. It highlights strategic objectives such as continued utilization of data for academic programs, increased community engagement, enhanced social-emotional and mental health support, improved safety and well-being, development of college/career/civic readiness, and increased cultural competencies. The workshop also reviews the governor's budget, property tax cap calculations, and specific budget areas including legal services, insurance, human resources, facilities, security, technology investments (such as one-to-one devices and cybersecurity), and transportation (including zero-emission bus mandates), emphasizing a fiscally responsible approach.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding revisions to the districtwide school safety plan, specifically focusing on incorporating provisions for a cardiac emergency response plan as required by new state law. The board also recognized member high school for receiving the Special Olympic Unified Champion National Banner distinction, a high level of recognition for inclusion. Student members presented on fostering community connections, including using feedback surveys and encouraging support for various sporting events. Additionally, the board reviewed policy first readings for several items, including duty officer functions, remote access, and displaying materials. The Superintendent reported on the Unified Sports program's success, an award won by a student at a New York City conference for a student change maker award based on projects concerning local safety and club advertising, and recent track team accomplishments where three students set new district records.

The meeting began with acknowledgments and introductions, including the presentation of newly elected Saxton Middle School GEO officers and recognition of Brook Haven Recycles poster contest winners. The Board then reviewed and approved the consent agenda, removing one item (9.11 regarding additions and deletions to fund programs of studies) for separate discussion, which focused on the phasing out of the Wilson program. Information items included the first reading of policy 5153 concerning threats and violence as it relates to students, which will be finalized in January 2026. Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent reports covered several areas: the introduction of the new Assistant Principal for South Ocean Middle School; upcoming elementary conferences and the implementation of metal detectors for events; progress on the Emerald Legosi foundation culinary garden grant application, which is a half-million-dollar request; and updates on bond projects, including kickoffs for secondary school theater sound/lighting upgrades and bidding for HVAC improvements at multiple schools following ACD approval. It was also noted that asbestous containing materials were safely removed from the Bay property. Finally, the district accountability designations were reported, showing all schools in good standing, though appeals will be submitted for two subgroups (students with disabilities at Medford Elementary and black students at South Ocean Middle School). The Superintendent also expressed gratitude for 16 donations totaling nearly $9,500 received this month.

The meeting included presentations and reports, featuring Girls Inc.'s recognition of a Patchogue Medford High School student as Girl of the Year. Highlights from Eagle Elementary School were presented by students, including an introduction to the Rack Random Acts of Kindness Club. The board also reviewed state assessment and regions results, comparing district performance against county and state levels, and discussed next steps for instructional adjustments in social studies, English, math, and science to align with exam expectations.