The Board of Education started its April 16 online meeting — board members and school administrators were all connected from home via Google Hangouts — by suspending their regular board meeting rules. They were able to do so due to the New York State of Emergency.
After that, the board went through its usual motions and activities, but focusing more on connecting as a group than typical. Much of that time was spent praising the work district employees have been doing in recent weeks while students are engaged in online learning.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Frank Sheboy announced that he believes Governor Andrew Cuomo’s New York Pause (through May 15) means that schools will not be reopening before that time.
“But, we wait for direction from the state,” he said, “and have asked our faculty and staff to consider this a long-term situation.”
He said the district’s ‘continuity of learning’ plan remains in place, and commended Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Technology Dr. Andrea Tejedor for creating a plan that teachers and students are succeeding with. Sheboy also thanked all those who are handling the feeding of the district’s children, noting that they are giving out an average of 2500 meals per week to community residents.
BOE members also offered praise for many.
“I’m amazed at how well our district is running,” Board President Anne Lawless said, “and want to note that it’s all thanks to our good leadership. Every single person is going out of their way to make this work. I’m sad we have to do this, but incredibly proud of what we are doing.”
Board member Faith Aprilante said she is proud of the work that is being done. She said that in her professional life she interacts with families enrolled in many area school districts, “and I don’t think any of them are set up as well as we are. Kudos to every person who had any involvement in the rollout.”
Each of the district’s three building principals also took a minute to comment, with all praising their building’s teachers, with O’Neill High School Principal Debbie Brand noting that the students “have been very responsive”.
Also from the meeting, Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Cedeira said she has been working on the district’s budget for the 2020-21 school year, but is also waiting for guidance from the state on what state aid numbers to use, as well as when a budget vote may take place.
It was noted by Lawless that while budget votes and BOE member elections have been postponed, those wishing to run for the board can begin to take action.
“Nominating petitions can be submitted to the district clerk at any time if already gathered signatures on petition,” Lawless said. “Anyone wanting a petition to run for BOE position can call District Clerk Marisa Frederick and make arrangements to pick up the necessary forms.”
There are three seats opening on the board.
