Lisa M. Belz

The meeting featured several recognitions and presentations. Initial segments included special recognitions for talented art students from the high school, whose artwork was displayed, and recognition for the successful varsity football team, which won the County Championship. A key presentation covered the special education two-year plan, emphasizing equity, inclusivity, providing services in the least restrictive environment, and fostering collaboration. Specific initiatives mentioned included promoting student independence, addressing social-emotional well-being through collaboration with Stonybrook, supporting student participation in school activities like the Buddies program and unified sports (basketball and upcoming bowling), and ensuring support for students in non-public schools. Additionally, the Ketquad Elementary PTA was highlighted for their significant contributions, including organizing a Kindergarten Playdate to ease transition, a large-scale spooky walk and pumpkin patch event that promoted cultural awareness, and showing appreciation for faculty with treats, all aimed at building school pride and community enrichment.

This document outlines the Comprehensive K-12 School Counseling Plan for East Islip School District. It serves as a framework for the systemic development, implementation, and evaluation of school counseling programs, aligning with American School Counselor Association National Standards and New York State Learning Standards. The plan aims to maximize students' academic, career, and personal/social development, preparing them for post-secondary success and fostering a positive learning environment through enhanced communication, school success skills, career awareness, social-personal development, and community involvement.

The meeting included a presentation by the drama club of A Christmas Carol. The SAD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) club gave a presentation focusing on Red Ribbon Week and the importance of making good choices, and recognized the winners of a red ribbon contest. A presentation on the comprehensive school counseling plan was given, detailing the roles of school counselors, social workers, and psychologists in supporting student development across academic, career, and personal social domains from elementary to high school levels.

The meeting included recognitions of students for the National Merit Scholarship Competition and the athletic trainer, Taylor Kenny, for her work with student athletes. A presentation highlighted the evolution of the library media center and art instruction at Timberoint Elementary School, focusing on coding, storytelling with technology, and student-led art projects. The Board discussed the senior banquet, career event, and upcoming food drive. They approved personnel actions, an amendment to the employment agreement, and the appointment of a network and systems coordinator. Additionally, the board accepted donations from JFK Elementary, the high school student activity account, the East Islip Fire Department, and Estee Lauder's collateral donation program.

The meeting included recognitions of commended students and dedicated staff. The student government is preparing to host their annual food drive. The board approved personnel actions, including appointments and agreements. They also approved a change in the Board of Education meeting schedule. The board accepted the Treasurer's Report and Extra Classroom Activity Funds Report. Contracts and agreements for special education services, actuarial services, and student teaching affiliations were approved. The board authorized legal action to recover property damage and approved membership dues for NYSSBA. A new math curriculum contract and bid extensions for snow removal were approved. Corrective action plans were accepted, and a field trip to the All-State Winter Conference was approved. Donations were accepted from various sources for different purposes, and appropriation changes for the 2025-2026 school year were approved.