Karina Arias

The meeting commenced with an executive session followed by a return to public session, and the agenda was approved. Key discussions included the President's report noting the postponement of a previous meeting, leading to the inclusion of workshop items on the current agenda. Appreciation was expressed to staff for managing snow days and recognition was given to student achievements in Black History Month celebrations, the Middle School production of 'Sister Act,' and the Girls' Varsity Basketball team. The Superintendent's report recognized Women's History Month, highlighted student accomplishments like Brianna Pena's performance at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratory Contest, and formally announced Principal Nicole Saieva's upcoming retirement effective June 30, 2026. The Student Representative provided updates on athletics, recent events, and shared student concerns regarding bathroom availability, hall passes, and walkway salting. Board members reported on Women's History Month, continued recognition of student achievements, and Trustee Mark updated the Board on the BOCES budget, noting a 2.5% administrative increase and scheduled public hearing/vote dates. The Board addressed prior citizen concerns regarding policy compliance, the 350 North Highland Avenue proposal, and future sidewalk installation needs. The workshop included a school safety presentation and a Budget Committee update discussing the potential formation of a community bond committee for long-term capital needs and revisiting high school transportation eligibility. Action items included the nomination of Michael Mark to the Rockland BOCES BOE Seat (2026-2029), adoption of the 2026-2027 school calendar, acceptance of library budget vote results, and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Business actions approved health services contracts for SY 2025-26, Small Claims Assessment Review refunds, change orders for the Middle School Site project, and accepted the Business function Reports for January 2026. Personnel actions included establishing a temporary District Clerk position and approving various staff appointments, assignment increases, and accepting multiple resignations, including that of Principal Nicole Saieva.

The meeting commenced with an executive session concerning legal advice, followed by reconvening to public session and approval of the agenda. Key discussions during the reports included recognizing Black History Month and honoring staff members for their service and leadership. There were updates on student achievements, including artwork and participation in a rally. The Board and Superintendent addressed coordination efforts, the integration of the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, and responses to recent winter weather challenges. Student advisory committee updates covered athletics engagement and cell phone policies. Board members shared reflections on student competencies and future strategic planning, including discussions on campus sustainability and scheduling. Citizens raised concerns regarding governance, cell phone use, artificial intelligence implementation, and general safety/transportation. The workshop session involved a discussion of the Draft 2026-2027 School Calendar. Action items included approving the minutes of the previous meeting, special education recommendations, Small Claims Assessment Review Reductions resulting in tax refunds, authorization for equipment disposal, acceptance of various business function reports for December 2025, approval of a capital project change order for the Valley Cottage Elementary Roof Project, settlement of a tax certiorari case involving Juniper Time Owner, LLC, and approval of budgetary transfers. Personnel actions included numerous staff appointments and the acceptance of resignations.

The meeting commenced with an adjournment to Executive Session to discuss privileged legal advice and a confidential student matter, followed by reconvening to Public Session. Key discussions included the President's report acknowledging the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday and upcoming community events, and the Superintendent's report noting curriculum activities honoring Dr. King and a review of Policy 5695 (cell phone use). The Student Representative provided updates on athletic achievements, student club activities, and upcoming events. Board members engaged in reflections on Dr. King's legacy concerning equity and justice. Workshop discussions covered Policy 5695 and a School Facilities Update. Action items included tabling a Special Education Recommendation. Business items involved approving budgetary transfers, authorizing an Inter-Municipal Agreement with North Rockland Central School District for SY 2025-26, approving Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) decisions resulting in tax refunds, settling a Tax Certiorari case, and authorizing the disposal of obsolete computer equipment. Personnel actions included accepting retirements and resignations, appointing a volunteer coach, rescinding a prior appointment, amending a start date, extending a leave of absence, and appointing substitute staff and temporary childcare supervisors for Parent University.

The Nyack Board of Education convened for a regular meeting, which included an executive session to discuss collective bargaining negotiations and seek legal advice. Student recognitions were given to Youth & Government participants and Teens in Action members. The board addressed special education recommendations, budgetary transfers, and the disposal of old equipment. Personnel matters included the acceptance of a resignation from a music teacher and the appointment of an additional volunteer coach for the Spring 2025 season.

The Nyack Public Schools Board of Education meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The board addressed community concerns regarding a proposed day school near Nyack High School, focusing on student safety and security. They reviewed and approved policies related to child abuse and sexual misconduct in an educational setting. Additionally, the board awarded a contract for a district-wide roofing project and accepted the tentative results of the Budget/Trustee Vote.