Kevin DeBenedetto

This strategic plan, titled 'Blueprint for Excellence,' outlines a roadmap for Hicksville Public Schools from 2025 to 2028. It is designed to prepare students for college, career, and life by fostering a dynamic, future-focused learning environment that embraces diversity and lifelong learning. The plan is structured around four key priority areas: Student Achievement & Experience (in and out of the classroom), Family and Community Engagement, A Supportive Professional Environment, and Operational Efficiencies and Facility Enhancements. It aims to deliver innovative, equitable, and enriching learning experiences, cultivate authentic partnerships, foster a culture of emotional intelligence and respect among staff, and ensure safe, modern, and effective learning environments through fiscally responsible investments.

The committee discussed various school events including the Hispanic Heritage Celebration, Picture Day, a Fire Truck visit, and a Diwali Craft event. The Trunk or Treat celebration and Wellness Walk (Halloween Parade) were also planned. The PTA expressed a desire for all families to feel welcome and supported, and the translation of flyers into other languages was discussed. Class parents were encouraged to volunteer and contribute to class funds. Upcoming school events such as Family Connect Night, a 5th Grade bake sale, and a Police Officer Visit were discussed. Assemblies were narrowed down, and events like "Deck the Halls," Picture Retake Day, Holiday Boutique, Winter Wonderland, and a Santa Visit to Classrooms were planned. The selection of student government candidates and their campaign were also discussed. The new President and Vice-President reported on student ideas, including a toy drive, coat drive, giving tree, color run, and an idea box. Parent Engagement Night was successful, with families sharing pictures on social media.

The strategic plan, titled "Blueprint for Excellence," outlines the long-term direction for Hicksville Public Schools. Developed with extensive community input, it defines the district's mission, vision, and core values, focusing on four key priorities: Student Achievement and Experience, Family and Community Engagement, A Supportive Professional Environment, and Operational Efficiencies and Facility Enhancements. The plan aims to support every child, strengthen school-community bonds, and implement the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, emphasizing continuous improvement, collaboration, transparency, and adaptability to ensure innovation and educational excellence.

The Hicksville Public Schools' strategic document outlines its vision, mission, and six key goals for the 2024-2025 school year. The vision aims to create a safe, diverse, and respectful environment where students succeed and are prepared for the future. The mission focuses on providing high-quality, well-rounded instructional programs, empowering students for college and career readiness, fostering critical thinking, global perspective, and core values. The strategic goals cover curriculum and instruction, financial sustainability, facilities and operations, community involvement, wellness and school climate, and innovation and technology, all aimed at promoting a thriving school and community culture.

The meeting included student recognition, particularly for the 'Freedom to Read' Essay and Art Contest winners. Personnel actions were approved, including leave of absence requests, resignations, retirements, recall of excessed staff, and appointments. The Superintendent reported on cell phone legislation, requiring stakeholder input and policy implementation, and honored the robotics teams for their successful year. The Safety Committee discussed the cell phone ban, sidewalk repairs, and U-turn signs. The board also discussed and approved several business and finance items, new business items related to special education, curriculum items, and policies for adoption, as well as proposed NYSSBA resolutions.