Gabriele Barbato

The Canajoharie CSD budget plan for 2014-2015 focuses on innovating learning to meet the needs of students in a rapidly changing technological environment. It emphasizes project-based lessons that enable students to create products, develop communication and writing skills, and use social media to engage with the school and outside community. The district's vision is to be a dynamic learning organization where students become thinkers, learners, and contributing citizens of a global society.

Central Valley's strategic plan is structured around four pillars: students, community, morale, and finances. The student pillar focuses on grades, physical and emotional health, and life skills. The community pillar emphasizes the importance of belonging. The morale pillar highlights the need for a positive outlook. The finances pillar focuses on investing wisely in programs and services that benefit the community's children.

The proposed budget for the 2014-2015 school year is $95.3 million, which includes a spending increase and a rise in the district tax levy. The budget addresses a significant gap caused by rising costs and reduced state aid. It prioritizes academic achievement, maintains elementary class sizes, supports early literacy initiatives, and protects music programming, mathematics, and science initiatives. If the budget is defeated, the district may need to make substantial cuts to staff, programs, and equipment.

The strategic plan for South Colonie School District is built upon four pillars: academics, wellness, character, and community. It focuses on fostering connections between students and staff to enhance academic success and character development. The plan emphasizes the importance of mental and physical wellness, and aims to build community partnerships involving parents, community members, and businesses to support the district's goals.

The Board of Education discussed capital projects to maintain facilities, focusing on Wellwood, Enders Road, and the high school. Key concerns include mechanical and infrastructural needs, asbestos issues, and creating a conducive learning environment. Challenges such as heating, cooling inconsistencies, loud ventilation, and freezing pipes were addressed. Communication with stakeholders about project scopes was emphasized for informed decision-making.