John Griffiths

The Board of Education conducted a business meeting where they adopted the Superintendent's budget for the 2026-2027 school year and approved the administrative budget for the Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES. The Board discussed and voted on a candidate for the BOCES Board of Education, approved a memorandum of agreement with the CSEA Custodial bargaining unit, and accepted an internal audit report on revenue and cash management. Additionally, the Board appointed a new Middle School Principal, an Interim High School Principal, and an Interim Assistant Principal, approved a gas supply services contract, and addressed various personnel and special education recommendations.

The Board of Education convened to approve the meeting agenda, which included an addition regarding a confidential student matter. The Board also entered into an executive session to discuss matters related to the employment of a particular person before adjourning the meeting.

The Board of Education received presentations regarding the 2026-2027 school budget, covering building-level and pupil personnel services. Key actions included the approval of a bid for a scissor lift, a side letter of agreement with the local teachers' association, and the acceptance of an administrative resignation. The board accepted multiple donations for scholarship funds, approved athletic mergers for various sports teams for the 2026-2027 school year, and authorized several budget transfers and increases related to construction projects and debt service. Additionally, the board entered an executive session to discuss personnel and student-related matters.

The meeting included reports from the Board President, Superintendent, and Student Trustee, alongside a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for the Croton Free Library. Key agenda items featured a comprehensive technology update, discussions on a letter of support for electric school bus fleet infrastructure, and the ratification of the school boards association budget. The Board addressed various policy matters, including vision statements and orientation processes. Multiple instructional personnel recommendations and labor agreements were approved. Furthermore, the Board formally accepted several donations to support school equipment, scholarships, and athletic programs, and authorized various summer programs and special education service contracts.

The Board of Education meeting centered on an overview of summer programs for students and the ongoing work of the future facilities planning team. Key topics included a review of necessary infrastructure maintenance based on a building condition survey, the alignment of facilities with future-driven educational goals, and strategies to minimize the financial impact on taxpayers through the management of declining debt and state building aid. The board also discussed the planning, community engagement, and timeline for potential future capital projects.