Gerard Esposito

This strategic plan, titled 'Forward in Excellence,' focuses on enhancing Family and Community Engagement for the Somers Central School District. Key initiatives include strengthening community connections through events like the 3rd Annual Tusker Café, expanding outreach strategies to ensure equitable access to district communications via a dedicated Public Relations Coordinator, diverse partnerships, and updated digital platforms. The plan also addresses sharing resources with families to support optimal learning environments, exemplified by the implementation of policies like the internet-enabled device ban.

This Long-Range Financial Plan for Somers Central School District focuses on fiscal stewardship as an Element of Excellence. It outlines responsible financial planning and resource allocation to ensure a safe learning environment where all students achieve excellence. The plan provides a clear financial picture through a multi-year forecast, emphasizing financial stability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility by detailing revenues, expenses, fund balances, reserves, and debt service. It aims to prepare the district for future financial costs and maintain its credit rating while addressing changing student needs and future capital projects.

The meeting focused on the 2026-2027 budget development process, including a detailed review of the proposed budget, anticipated revenues, and tax levy estimates. The board discussed the contingency options available if the proposed budget is not approved by voters, as well as the potential impact of operating under a contingent budget, which includes reductions in instructional staffing, athletic coaching positions, extracurricular clubs, and facilities projects. Additionally, the meeting highlighted upcoming dates for a public budget hearing and the trustee election, noting the candidates for the two expiring board seats.

This Proposed Annual School Budget for the Somers Central School District for 2026-2027 outlines financial plans while reinforcing the district's mission to engage students for success in a global society. It is guided by a vision focusing on 21st Century Knowledge & Skills, Social-Emotional-Physical Wellness, and Global Citizenship. The budget supports key educational initiatives including enhancing science curricula, integrating technology and artificial intelligence, strengthening literacy programs, implementing advanced assessment tools, promoting best practices in mathematics, and fostering comprehensive social-emotional learning.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed school budget. Following the hearing, the meeting was dedicated to recognizing several employees for their 25 years of service to the school district, highlighting their contributions in various roles, including classroom teaching, literacy intervention, food service, and building operations.