Keeyse Aparicio

The Wellness Committee meeting addressed the recap of the 2024-2025 school year and established goals for the current year, including the implementation of the SEL curriculum at the high school and planning for Mental Health Awareness Month in May 2026. Key discussion points included the successful implementation of the Second Step curriculum in elementary grades and the introduction of the Ori Learning curriculum in high school. Progress on student wellness initiatives, such as 'Morgan's Message' to address mental health stigma among student-athletes, was reviewed, alongside increased sports opportunities. The impact of the new cell phone policy on student grades and social dynamics was discussed. The committee also reviewed updates on Art Therapy incorporation, partnership spotlights with Northwell Behavioral Health and NY Heart Screening, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) expansion across the district. Data analysis from the Panorama survey regarding student feelings and chronic absenteeism was also presented.

The meeting included segments celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with performances from the Stimson band, a student vocalist, and the Latino Heritage Club. Discussions also covered honoring a recent graduate of the district. A significant portion of the agenda involved the annual review of data and assessments, specifically Regents and Advanced Placement exam scores for the 2024-2025 school year, focusing on trends and mastery rates in subjects like Algebra 1, Earth Science, and Living Environment, especially concerning middle school students.

The meeting included a presentation by Birchwood Intermediate School, an encore performance of a Mainstage Drama Production, and a public hearing for the 2025 Revised District-Wide Safety Plan. The board approved the Nawrocki Smith Annual Risk Assessment Report and Corrective Action Plan for 2025, a confidential settlement agreement, a Memorandum of Agreement for the South Huntington Paraprofessional Association, and agreements with The Learning Experience and SCOPE Educational Services. They also approved data privacy agreements, the Mason Kraese Memorial Technical Scholarship, an extra classroom account for The Collective Recording Studio Club, and the disposal of obsolete textbooks and IT equipment. Additionally, a budget transfer was approved, along with donations for Winter Wonderland. The board also discussed recommendations for student placements and a lease agreement with Camp W, and appointed Renee Schumm as Principal of Silas Wood Pre-K Center.

The Vision Committee meeting included a review of the survey draft, recent NYSED updates, and updates from each Pathway. The committee discussed creating and adopting a Portrait of a Graduate, defining South Huntington Pathways to Graduation, reviewing course catalogs with the pathways in mind, and considering the implications at all grade levels. The meeting also covered the development of local seals and endorsements for graduation, and collaborative efforts to ensure the work is purposeful and serves the best interest of all students. Further discussion involved possibilities for expansion within Arts, CDOS, CTE, Civics, Humanities, STEM, and Dual/World Language pathways.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various topics such as the adoption of a revised board policy regarding expenditures, approval of out-of-district placements and district of residence agreements, and consultant agreements for mentoring support. The board also approved an increase in retired nurse substitute pay, a travel allowance for the Supervisor of Transportation, and requests for supplemental sick bank. Additionally, the board approved donations for a time capsule plaque and homecoming fireworks, recommendations for student placements by the Committee on Special Education, data privacy agreements, obsolete items, and personnel schedules. The meeting also involved administrative reports, committee updates, and comments by board members and the Superintendent of Schools.