Ursula Carbone

This document outlines the Board of Education's goals and priorities for the 2025-2026 period. The strategic focus areas include supporting the organization's mission and vision through community engagement and strategic plan development, expanding instructional strategies to enhance student engagement and performance, maintaining mental health services for students and staff, monitoring student representation on Board committees, and ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability through capital projects and long-range financial planning.

The meeting included discussions about the curriculum committee's update on the science of reading, focusing on brain-friendly instruction and ongoing professional development opportunities for staff. There was also a proposition to voters regarding the purchase of property. The superintendent provided updates from various buildings, including achievements in the Word Masters challenge, winter concert series, holiday boutiques, and multicultural holiday greeting videos. The Nanuet boys basketball team was recognized for sportsmanship. Upcoming events include a drive for 25 assembly and ruler family night. The high school music department is doing their 15-minute holiday concerts. The board was also recognized as a blue star school for financial literacy.

The meeting included discussions about the salt tax deduction, a public forum, and approval of the consent agenda. The board addressed personnel matters, including resignations and leaves of absence. Goals and priorities for 2021-22 were adopted. The superintendent's report highlighted activities at High View Elementary School, such as the turkey trot and guest speakers. There were updates on new policies regarding personal expression and fraternization. The board also discussed Rockland County school boards, new superintendents, graduation requirements, teacher shortages, and legislative webinars. Concerns were raised about increasing drug use among older kids and the need for mental health support.

The meeting included discussion of the free lunch program for students, leadership Rockland and Workforce Development conference, student mental health, safety and security, Pathways for Educators, and civil service reform. The district's application to continue with the free lunch program for students has been approved by New York state. The winter athletic season is underway. The legislators are anticipating a fight with the Department of Budget over continued funding.

The meeting included discussions about the 22 on 20, 23 24 final budget review, adjustments made to the budget, and questions regarding the internal auditor expenses. Other topics included clerical increases, business salaries, taxi operations and maintenance, construction, custodial workers, and potential vacancies. The board also discussed the cost of building a permanent bathroom, options for porta johns, and the concept of graduation.