Hastings On Hudson Union Free School Dist.

The Hastings-on-Hudson Union Free School District K-12 Comprehensive Guidance Plan aims to provide a sequential and developmentally appropriate program that supports students' academic, personal-social, and career development. Aligned with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and the Naviance College and Career Readiness framework, the plan focuses on fostering social-emotional learning and preparing students for responsible citizenship and lifelong success. Key components include developing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, interpersonal skills, and ethical decision-making.

The meeting featured an update on the distraction-free school initiative, focusing on the policy regarding student use of internet devices, including cell phones, smart headphones, and personal devices during the school day, recess, and passing time. Administrators reported demonstrable improvement in classroom and hallway environments, with very few instances of phone usage during instruction. However, there was noted limited adherence to the 'pouching' procedure, although it was asserted that the policy increases instructional consistency. Student representatives indicated frustration regarding the slow and lagging performance of Chromebooks, leading some students to use personal devices instead, despite policy restrictions. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of enforcing the no-phone policy during open campus lunch periods for upperclassmen and the significant budgetary constraints associated with replacing or upgrading technology.

The meeting included a Superintendent's Report, Cabinet Update from the Business Official, and a Student Report. Key business items involved the approval of warrants and the October 2025 Revenue & Expenditure Report, along with approving a contribution from the Joel Dean Foundation, Inc. Two items, concerning PNW BOCES Professional Learning and an agreement with Anna Marantidis for school psychology services, were tabled for the next meeting. The Board also accepted the recommendations for special education placements and services for the 2025-2026 school year. Furthermore, the Board denied a Stage 3 Grievance filed by the Hastings Teachers Association. The personnel consent agenda covered several appointments, amendments to existing appointments, accepted resignations, and an approved leave of absence. Finally, the Board adopted the 2026-2027 School Calendar.

The meeting commenced with an Executive Session to discuss a confidential personnel matter, followed by a return to public session. A Public Hearing was held concerning amendments to the District Wide Safety and Emergency Management Plan for the 2026-2027 school year. Key reports included updates from the Superintendent, the Business Official, the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and the Interim Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services, along with a Student Report. Business items approved included warrants, invoices for theatrical lighting design and dance units, service pay for an HTA Side Letter, a salary advancement adjustment, and a revised contract for restoration work at Farragut Middle School. The Board also accepted recommendations for placements and services for the Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). Personnel actions involved approving Schedule B appointments and specific appointments for a part-time Clerk and a part-time Monitor. Policies undergoing a second read, including those related to English Language Learners and Sexual Harassment (under Title IX), were adopted. New Business included a first read of the 2026-27 School Year Calendar recommendation and the formal adoption of the revised 2025-2026 District Wide Safety and Emergency Management Plan.

The meeting commenced with a motion to enter an Executive Session to conduct an HTA Grievance Hearing, followed by a return to the public session. Key agenda items included the Superintendent's Update and District Highlights, reports from the Business Official and the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and a Student Report from student liaisons. A significant portion of the business section involved the initial presentation of the 2026-2027 Budget. Business items approved included the November 2025 Revenue & Expenditure report, a contract for educational services with Eastchester Union Free School District, invoices, warrants, and two stipulations of settlement. The Board also accepted recommendations for special education placements and services for both the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years. The consent agenda for Personnel included several appointments, amendments to appointments (including salary increases for staff completing National Board Certification), and the acceptance of one retirement notice. Finally, the Board adopted Policy 5100 regarding Student Attendance.