001So, can we get a motion to open the meeting, please? Second. All in favor? I. Okay. Please join us in the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. Okay. And with that, I'll hand it right over to Superintendent Tonin. Good evening, everyone. Thank you for being here. This truly is the most wonderful board meeting of the year where we get to honor so many of our staff members. So, we're going to start this evening with our retirement recognition. And I'll invite our assistant superintendent for human resources, Jennifer Pontillo, to the podium. Good evening everyone. As many of you know, this is my favorite board of education
002meeting of the year. It is a night that acknowledges and celebrates both ends of a career spectrum. Our retirees and our ten tenure candidates. This year's retirees have worked a collective 638 years in this district and I've had the privilege of working alongside so many of you. Since announcing your retirement, there have been many opportunities to reflect on your career and the contributions you have made to our district. The common themes I've heard are Mayapac is like an extended family. I've been lucky to work with wonderful colleagues and great students. I'm fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and work with great people who I consider family. I will very much miss the close connections I have made with colleagues, students, and families. And Mayapek is a wonderful place to work, it's more than
003just a place to do a job. It is a true community filled with dedicated staff, families, and of course, wonderful students. Although I am sure you are all excited for your next chapter, it is clear that Mayak holds a special place in all of your hearts. I hope you all know that feeling is mutual. We are better because of you. Thank you for the difference you've made in the lives of our students, in the contributions made to improve our systems and move our district forward, for the care you took in transporting students safely to and from school each day, and for dedicating your collective 638 years to the Mayapac Central School District. You could have worked anywhere, but you chose Mayipac. And more importantly, you chose to stay in Mayapac and for that we are
004truly truly grateful. So on behalf of the Mayapac Central School District, congratulations on your retirement. You are wished a retirement filled with all that you are planning and of course traveling during off- peak times and grocery shopping on a random Tuesday afternoon. While you think to yourself, what day of the week is it? Please know your impact has been profound and your legacy immeasurable. When I call your name, please come up to the stage to accept a token of our appreciation. And please remain there until all names have been called so we can get a group photo. Liza Curtitz [Music] Kathy Usack, Bernardet Cromer, Mary Kurt, Heather Mardo, Beth Hicks, Larry Weissberg, Diane Casio, Moren Tai, Lisa Apadulla, Dan Richie, Alice Shaughnessy, Ralph Cisano, Kelly Berdick, Nancy Barker, Bonnie Papa Sedora, Katherine Paterno, Stacy Bennett,
005Mary Sweeney, Mary Beth Sangali, Tony Carino, John Russell, Denise Pamato, Eileen Risoto, Michelle Bell and Tony, Anne Havland and Steve Truce. Congratulations. [Applause] like maybe in front of the Can they come up and over? Up and over. stand. Yeah. Congratulations, class of 2025 retirees. [Applause] We are now going to acknowledge our tenure recipients. We're going to start with Austin Road. I invite Brian Gilligan up to the podium. and Dr. Twe. Good evening, Superintendent Tona, Assistant Superintendent, Board President Martinez, and the board of trustees. It is my privilege to share the achievements and contributions of three esteemed staff, Austin Road staff members this evening, Amanda Gia Quinta, Laura McAuliffe, and Emma O'Brien. I would like to start with Amanda Gia Quenta, our self-contained specialed teacher at Austin Road. Amanda is a truly exceptional educator who brings
006skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her students every single day. Since joining our school, Amanda has worked with some of our most complex learners, students with developmental and communication delays, and has done so with grace, professionalism, and a fierce belief in their potential. Amanda's classroom is a place where students are seen, supported, and celebrated. She builds individualized programs that meet her students exactly where they are and guides them forward in both academic growth and communication development. One of the most powerful parts of Amanda's work is her commitment to inclusion. Amanda is one of the driving forces behind our monthly courtyard cafes, creating meaningful experiences for her her students and opportunities for our school community. come together and connect. Through her leadership and thoughtful planning, the students have become cherished members of our Austin Road community.
007They are known, they are welcomed, and they are celebrated. Amanda's communication with families is truly exceptional and happens on a daily basis, both during school hours and well into the evening. Whether it's detailed daily logs, quick phone calls, or thoughtful text updates, Amanda keeps families consistently informed and engaged in her child's progress, a supportive bridge between home and school. A key to Amanda's success is the remarkable partnership she has built with her teaching assistants and a team. Her classroom operates with unity, shared purpose, and trust. She leads with clarity and empathy, empowering her staff to ensure that every adult in the room is aligned in serving each child with care and consistency. This collaboration is not easy, but she makes it seem seamless. And together, her team has created a warm, structured, and student- centered
008environment where everyone thrives. It is my honor this evening to recommend Amanda Gia Quenta for tenure. [Applause] [Music] Next, it is with great pride to speak about Mrs. Laura McAuliff, our fifth grade teacher at Austin Road. Laura joined our fifth grade team with a wealth of experience in the New York City school system. And from day one, she has brought a level of expertise, energy, and heart that has enriched our school in countless ways. Walk into her classroom and you're immediately struck by the feeling that learning is alive because it is. Her teaching quite literally jumps off the walls. Her carefully chart created charts and visual tools are not just decorative, they are instructional anchors. students refer to them constantly applying strategies and vocabulary that have been introduced, modeled, and practiced. Her walls reflect the
009journey of student learning, and they help every child feel empowered to take that next step. In the heart of that vibrant room, you see students deeply engaged, eager to participate in many lessons, thoughtful partnership conversations, and confident in their independent learning. Laura has built a classroom culture rooted in independence. Her support doesn't stop at the classroom door. Laura is a consistent and thoughtful communicator with families, sharing updates grounded in data that she meticulously gathers from assessments, observations, and conferences. She ensures that parents feel informed, involved, and valued as partners in their child's learning. Often, these communications go beyond a typical school day. Laura can be seen on email replies on a Friday night, Saturday morning, but it is truly important that she feels that her parents are updated at the most timely manner. Outside the
010classroom, Laura is deeply respected and an act active contributor to our school community. She serves on the sitebased committee, a valued member of the literacy committee, and was an integral part of the team that led to our transition to a departmentalized fifth grade model. A shift that required vision, flexibility, and thoughtful planning. In each of these roles, Laura has shows up with ideas, insight, and the same level of commitment she brings to her students. It is my honor to recommend Laura McAuliffe to tenure this evening. [Music] This time I'd like to invite Gary Chabwick to join me at the podium to speak on behalf of Miss Emma O'Brien, one of our ENL teachers who works at both Austin Road and Former Road. Emma's flexibility and adaptability are truly commendable. Serving as an ENL teacher at
011both former road and Austin Road, she seamlessly transitions between the two buildings, adjusting to the unique needs, schedules, and cultures of each of the schools. She maintains strong relationships of students and staff in both settings, ensuring continuity instruction and support. Her ability to stay organized, present, and collaborative no matter the location is a testament to her professionalism and our her deep commitment to meeting students at where they are. Emma brings far more than instructional support to her students, she brings resources, compassion, and connection. Whether she's working directly with students, supporting classroom teachers, or collaborating with families, Emma is always generous with their time and her knowledge. She is a constant source of kindness, always ready to help, whether it's gathering background information on a student to better tailor instruction or translating important documents for families.
012One of Emma's most admirable qualities is her initiative. She doesn't wait to be asked. She steps in, steps up, and offers thoughtful, practical solutions. She is skilled problem solver, and her collaborative spirit has made her an indispensable part of both former road and Austin Road. Teachers and administrators alike speak with confidence about Emma's instructional recommendations because they are grounded in what's best for students. Emma has played a key role in planning and organizing our district-wide ENL family night, an evening that brings together local organizations to offer health, food, and technology outreach to our families. Emma O'Brien exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and impactful educator. It is my honor this evening along with Gary Chavik to recommend Emma O'Brien for tenure. [Music] [Applause] Good evening everyone. I'd like to also invite up my
013assistant principal, Mrs. Allison Fulman, as we speak about our Fulmer Road candidates for tenure this evening. I'd also before starting would like to congratulate all of our retirees and other tenure recipients for this evening. I'd first like to speak about Jessica Riiffken. Jessica is an ENL teacher at Fulmer Road. She builds strong and trusting relationships not only with our students but also their families. Her students and their families see her as an advocate for their child. They know they can turn to her for guidance and support. When Jess arrives at the classroom door to pick up her students for class, you can always hear cheers from her students. Many run up to her and give her the biggest hug. I have seen her almost knocked over in excitement. Jess has been an asset to Fulmer
014Road and the ENL department in our district. She has also been involved in our holiday food drive. She's been a sightbased team member, a member of our sunshine club. She also supported our one book, one school, inviting in all of our Spanish-speaking parents and families to come in and record chapters within our books. We look forward to many successful years to come for Jess and her impact on our ENL students. It is my pleasure to recommend Jessica Rifkin for tenure. Congratulations. Nicole Deglio. Nicole has worked really hard and rose up through the ranks at Fulmer Road. She has been a building sub, a leave replacement, a third grade special education teaching teacher, a third grade general education teacher, and now a second grade teacher. She brings a calm and confident atmosphere to her classroom. This
015is a gift to her students and the colleagues she works with on a daily basis. If Nicole is concerned about a student who is in who is struggling in her class, she comes to the table to discuss the students strengths and weaknesses in a manner that is supportive, clear, and focused. Nicole is always looking for the best ways to support her students no matter where she receives them. In addition to being an advocate for her students, she has also been involved in our sitebased team, our parent teacher organization. She is a literacy committee member. She is a big supporter of our one book, one school, just to name a few. She has been a solid addition to the Fulmer Road family, both as a parent and a teacher, and we are looking forward to many
016more years of her success. It is my pleasure to recommend Nicole Dgloio for tenure. [Music] [Applause] Marray Hines Marade is a fifth grade special education teacher at Fulmer Road. Her first placement was in a co-taught environment with longtime Fulmer Road teacher Liza Curtitz. Liza would often share in the halls of Fulmer Road how she had found a real partner in Merade. You can often find Merade in the classroom working with a small group of students. She continually plants specially designed instruction to meet her students individual learning needs. Merade also supports her students to grow as a learner as she encourages them to do their best and to become more independent. Merade has worked hard to keep many of the fifth grade full traditions alive and well for our students and their families. We appreciate all
017of her hard work and commitment to Fulmer Road. In addition, she has also been involved in our PTO, SEPTO, district-wide special education committee and this year served as our grade level representative. I remember watching her as a player at Mayapac High School on the basketball team and have enjoyed watching her learn and grow as an educator in May. Congratulations, Merade. It's my pleasure to recommend you for tenure. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Nicole Patron is a kindergarten teacher at Fulmer Road. During her probationary period, she has become a a leader within the grade level. She brought to us many years of kindergarten experience and elementary experience from New York City. She collaborates well with her special education teaching partners, teaching assistants, students, and their families. In addition, she has she has piloted our Hegrity phenemic awareness program.
018She is a member of our PTO and our sunshine committee. She has been a great addition to our Fulmer Road family and I look forward to many years of collaborating and working together in the future. It is my pleasure to recommend Nicole Patron for tenure. [Music] Congratulations [Applause] Christina Nicotina. Christina is one of our teaching assistants at Fulmer Road. We were very fortunate to receive her after starting her career as a lunch monitor at Lake View to begin her career as a teaching assistant. During her probationary period, she has worked with a number of different assignments in a variety of grade levels with many different students with varying needs. She builds positive relationships with all of her students, their families, and the classroom teachers in which she is assigned to. She has been active in
019our community as a member of both our PTO and sunshine club, our one book, one school reader in both English and Spanish, our spirit day committee, our safety committee as well. She has been a solid addition to the Fulmer Road family both as a parent and as a teaching assistant and we are looking forward to many years of her success as she begins her studies to become a certified teacher on her next journey. It is my honor to recommend Christina Nicotina for tenure. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] Next, we call up Mrs. Blessing and Mrs. Gallion for Lake View. Good evening everyone. We are very honored to be here tonight to talk about our two tenure recipients, Miss Danielle Dwire and Miss Irene Sice. It is with great pride that I present Miss Dwire,
020a general education teacher at Lake View Elementary School for tenure recommendation. Over the c course of her probationary period, Miss Dwire has consistently demonstrated a commitment to her students, colleagues, and the entire school community. Miss Dwire began her journey with us as a building substitute in 2017 and later completed lever placements at Lake View in second grade and at Austin Road in third grade. She mo more recently she has taught second grade and now is currently teaching first grade. One of Miss Dwire's greatest strengths is her ability to build meaningful relationships. She is a kind and compassionate teacher who forms strong connections with her students and families that extend beyond the classroom. She also collaborates positively with her grade level team, colleagues, custodians, and office staff, demonstrating her commitment to teamwork and her role as
021a valued member of the Lake View community. Beyond her interpersonal strengths, Miss Dwire understands the importance of contributing to the school on a whole. She is an active participant in our PTO Septto events and serves as a dedicated member of our Lake View sitebased team. Her involvement in these initiatives reflects her commitment to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant school culture. Miss Dwire's dedication to her craft is equally remarkable. She invests significant time and energy in designing meaningful and impactful lessons that cater to the diverse needs of her students. Her classroom is a safe and supportive space where students feel valued and encouraged to take risks. Miss Dwire exemplifies what it means to be a passionate, hard-working, and reflective educator. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
022She embodies the value and vision of Lake View Elementary School, and I am so part happy she is part of our Lake View family. Congratulations, Danielle. [Music] And now I will speak about Mrs. Sice. It is my pleasure to recommend Mrs. Irene Serice for tenure as a teaching assistant at Lake View Elementary School. Irene has been an invaluable member of our team, consistently demonstrating kindness, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the success of her students. She has built positive relationships with both students and staff, and her calm and steady demeanor is particularly beneficial for students with disabilities, creating an environment where they feel supported and respected. Irene is a dedicated team player collaborating closely with teachers and related service providers to ensure the students thrive in both special class and general education settings. She is
023always willing to contribute ideas and solutions to help meet the diverse needs of her students. Irene takes feedback positively and uses it as an opportunity to grow, constantly seeking ways to enhance her skills and strategies. In addition to her dedication to her students, Irene is a com is committed to her own professional development. She has participated in professional development to further expand her knowledge and effectiveness as a teaching assistant. The commitment, this commitment to growth has had a significant impact on her ability to support her students in innovative and meaningful ways. Throughout her time at Lake View, Irene has made a lasting positive impact on our school community. Her professionalism, dedication, and caring approach truly make a difference, and we are fortunate to have her part of our team. I am proud to recommend Irene
024Serice for tenure and look forward to her continued success at Lake View. Congratulations. That's a happy. I invite up Dr. Jeff Cole. Good evening, members of the school board, families, faculty, uh, and members of the school community. Thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. It's both an honor and a privilege to stand before you to recommend Jennifer Barnett for tenure as a math teacher in the Falls Academy program. Tenure is not something we give lightly, nor should it be. It's a recognition of consistent excellence and unwavering commitment to our students and a belief that the educator in question not only is effective in the classroom, but integral to the heartbeat of our school district. Since joining the school district, Miss Barnett has been a steady, inspiring presence in our fall academy program. Math, as
025you know, can be a subject that students either fear or fall in love with. The gift that she brings is the gift to take something that can feel intimidating and make it engaging, accessible, and at times even a little bit fun. But what sets Miss Barnett apart from everyone else is not that instructional skill, though that is exceptional. It's the way she builds relationships with students. She notices that when a student is struggling academically, but also struggling emotionally. She offers encouragement when a student is on the edge of giving up and a challenge when a student is ready for more. It's a rare combination. It's a deep, deep understanding of content and an even deeper compassion for kids. Outside the classroom, Miss Barnett contributes to the life of our school community in many meaningful ways.
026Whether by advocating in our falls academy planning meetings, leading math enrichment opportunities, or just being that reliable go-to person that colleagues trust, I'll be remissed if I didn't mention the success of our therapy animal program was largely due to the advocacy of Miss Barnett. I've watched her impact ripple far beyond the four walls of the classroom, and I'm confident that granting tenure will only affirm the incredible work that she has provided us thus far. So on behalf of our students, our staff, and our school community, I proudly recommend Jennifer Barnett for tenure. [Music] You earned it. I'd also like to recognize Sarah Nabi, who I don't believe is here tonight, but nevertheless, I do want to recognize her efforts. In every school, there are people who hold things together, not always with fanfare or attention,
027but with care, consistency, and compassion, and that's Sarah and Abby. Since joining our school community as a teacher assistant, she has shown an extraordinary commitment to our students, our classrooms, and our mission as a school district. Teaching assistants play a vital role in the learning environment. They support instruction. They help manage classrooms and often work to directly with students who need a little extra help, patience, or encouragement. Miss Nabi does this all and even a little bit more at times. Whether working one-on-one with a student who needs support in reading or math or helping to create a calm, structured environment for a class with varied needs, she brings an incredible level of empathy and professionalism to every single interaction. Members of the Falls Academy team describe Miss Anabi as dependable, calm under pressure, and always
028student centered. Our teachers know that when Sarah walks in the room, students will be supported and learning will move forward. and our students know that they are going to be safe, seen, and valued. So, while this may not be a spotlight role, it's a foundational one, and Miss Nabi has proven to be someone that we can count on to show up for our kids day in and day out. Our school is stronger because of her work, and our students are better for having her in their lives. Thank you. [Applause] [Music] Now I invite up middle school principal Mr. Kazaka and joining him is Mr. Muya. Good evening, Superintendent Tona, President Martinez, board members, families, friends, and of course all of our educators here today. Congratulations to all of our retirees. Um you're very inspiring with
029the years that you've put in and your dedication to the Mayapac schools. So um great job on that and enjoy your retirement. Um it's my great pleasure to speak about an exceptional educator and colleague Sydney Dtoma. Uh since joining the Mayapac Central School District four years ago, Sydney has not only made a tremendous impact on the Mayapac Middle School, but has truly elevated our entire district's ENL program. Sydney quickly distinguished herself as a dedicated and innovative teacher. Her passion for her students and her work led to her being named department chair, a role in which she has thrived. But Sydney didn't stop there. She saw a need and took an initiative by creating a mentoring program specifically for our ENL students who are new to the district. This program has provided vital support, helping these
030students adjust, feel welcomed, and thrive both socially and academically. Sydney's commitment to her students is clear in everything she does. She constantly seeks new strategies and approaches to help students not only learn the English language, but also feel accepted and valued in the Mayapac community. Her influence reaches beyond the classroom, strengthening our school culture and supporting our mission as a district. With all that said, it's with great pride and complete confidence that I recommend Sydney Dtoma for tenure at the May [Music] [Applause] It's my honor to recognize and celebrate the outstanding work of Anthony Rita as he is considered for tenure here at the Mayapac Central School District. Since joining the middle school, Anthony has shown tremendous growth in his role as a school counselor. One of his greatest strengths is the deep, genuine relationships
031he builds with students. He's created a risk-free, supportive environment where students feel safe to share both their successes and their struggles. That kind of trust doesn't just happen by accident. It's a result of Anony's empathy, consistency, and commitment to every child's well-being. Anthony also serves as a vital bridge between students, parents, and teachers. He works tirelessly to ensure that every student is understood and supported, helping to create a learning environment tailored to their individual needs. His work has had a direct and lasting impact on the academic and emotional success of so many of our student. It's with great pride that I recommend Anthony Rita for tenure at the Mayapac School District. [Applause] We were a little more gentle this year. We went with aloe instead of the cactus from last year. It's a pleasure to
032speak about our next candidate, Mr. Michael Tlassi as we recognize his outstanding contri contributions and and consideration for uh tenure at Mayapac Middle School District. Since joining Mayapac Middle School, Michael's done an exceptional job growing and energizing our band program. His enthusiasm is infectious and his structured, thoughtful approach to teaching is reflected in the quality of our students performances, especially evident during our winter and spring concerts. One of Michael's greatest successes has been in student retention. His ability to inspire and connect with students has kept them engaged and excited about music. He's also breathed new life into our jazz band, not only by enhancing the program, but actively performing alongside students, modeling the joy and the passion that music brings. Michael also revived one of the school's most cherish cherished traditions, welcoming students with live
033holiday music before the break, creating a joyful, memorable atmosphere that brings our community together. With all this mind, I proudly and wholeheartedly recommend Michael Taglassi for tenure at the Mayapac Central School District. [Music] [Applause] The next candidate I'd like to speak about is another Michael, Michael Deleo, as he's considered for tenure at the Mayapac Central School District. Michael's been a fantastic addition to our world language program. From the very beginning, he worked closely with his colleagues to help expand and strengthen our world language offerings for seventh and eighth grade students. His collaboration and commitment have helped us provide a more seamless and engaging language experience for our students. What truly sets Michael apart is the way he connects with the students. He builds strong relationships. He brings energy and creative creativity to every lesson, making
034language learning not only effective but fun. As a new teacher, Michael eagerly embraced feedback and mentorship, always striving to grow and improve. He consistently seeks out ways to enhance his lessons, engage students in meaningful learning. Beyond the classroom, Michael took on a really, really big role, and that was the role of school mascot, Kota. I know there was a lot of people fighting for it, but he uh he was the chosen one. Uh he was a fun and spirited way he helped build school culture and pride, showing his dedication to the entire Mayapac Middle School community. I recommend Michael Deleo for tenure at Mayapac Middle School. Without resolution, Congratulations. [Music] [Applause] [Music] It's an honor to speak about our next candidate for tenure and that's Anna Barardo. Anna has been an incredible asset to our
035school community working closely with some of our most vulnerable and high need students. What sets Anna apart is not only her professionalism, but the warmth, kindness, and the care she brings to her role every single day. When you see Anna with students, it's immediately clear how much pride and love she has for the work she does. Her calm and steady demeanor bring peace and reassurance in even the most challenging situations. She treats every student with the respect and dignity they deserve and in doing so sets a standard for all of us. Anna's presence in our school is not only supportive but inspiring and we are truly fortunate to have her as part of our team. With great appreciation, I recommend Anna Barado for tenure at the May Central School District. Congratulations And last, but certainly
036not least, for the um Mayapac Middle School, it's a pleasure to recognize Terry Primes for tenure at the Mayapac Central School District. From the very first day, Terry has been the definition of team player. No matter the assignment, no matter the classroom, she has stepped in with calm, supportive president's presence and genuine commitment to our students success. Terry works seamlessly with her fellow teachers, always ready to assist and contribute in meaningful ways. Whether she's jumping into a lesson or helping a student one-on-one, she brings patience, respect, and kindness to everything she does. Her flexibility and professionalism make her an invaluable part of our school community. We're grateful to have Terry on our team as well. And it's with great pride that I recommend Terry Primes for tenure at the May. I'd now like to invite
037up our high school principal, Mr. Pat Kevens for his tenure recommendations. Thank you. Uh good evening. Thank you to Miss Tona, Mr. Martinez, and the board of education. Congratulations to all the retirees, many familiar faces from from many years ago, as well as all of our tenure recipients. Uh tonight, I'm pleased to be recommending two staff members from Mayapac High School for tenure. The first is Andrew Kalo. She's a teaching assistant who's worked in a number of programs during her time in the district. This past year, Anne has been working in a small class setting with students with specialized needs. This setting requires consistency, patience, but most of all a deep commitment to our students as well as the fellow staff. During this time, Anne has consist consistently demonstrated a positive attitude even on the
038most challenging days, often uplifting both colleagues and students with optimism and a smile. When asked, one colleague stated, "Anne has a steady presence and her quiet demeanor speaks volumes. Anne is a true team player. She actively engages with questions and feedback from others, approaching every interaction with openness and a desire to grow. Her contributions have truly strengthened the team. Therefore, with great pleasure, I recommend Anne Drinkalo for tenure in the Mayapac Central School District. Our second recommendation for tenure tonight is for Kathleen Molo, another teaching assistant who I was fortunate enough to have worked with at the middle school previously. I was excited to learn she would be transitioning to MHS this past fall to support students in our skills program. According to one colleague, when asked, she described Kathy as an indispensable member of
039the program. She approaches each student with genuine care, demonstrating both thoughtfulness and patience in every interaction. As a collaborative and reliable team player, Kathy consistently shows unwavering dedication to her students success. She's the first person that colleagues turn to for support and she always responds with a warm smile and a positive attitude. Her efforts not only enhance the classroom environment but also strengthen the broader program. Kathy's support makes a meaningful impact on a daily basis. Therefore, it's with great pleasure that I recommend Kathleen Molo for tenure in the Mayapac Central School District. [Music] Thank you to our building leadership teams. Your words are thoughtful and really um provoking. And congratulations to all our tenure candidates. The recommendation for tenure is a responsibility our administration takes very seriously. It is not a right of passage, nor
040is it an endgame. It symbolizes our faith in you as a professional and actually marks the beginning of what we hope is a long and fulfilling career here in Mayak that hopefully someday collectively totals at least 638 years. We hired you because we saw great potential in you. You are here tonight because you've met and even exceeded those expectations. So, you have certainly earned the distinction of tenure. We expect that you will continue to learn, grow, inspire, encourage, question, and most importantly, continue to make your mark so that when you are on that stage celebrating an entire career, you look back on it with the same sense of pride, accomplishment, and appreciation as those who were here tonight. You were hired to make us better and continue to do just that. Congratulations, [Music] Thank you,
041Mrs. Pontillo, and I echo her sentiments. Uh, it truly is wonderful to see our newly tenured teachers sitting amongst our veteran teachers and staff members and um it just what's make it what's it is what makes mahopac so special. So, this truly is a wonderful evening. And while we're recognizing individuals, there are two gentlemen, one to my left and one to my right, um, who provided dedicated service to the board of education and they are concluding their terms with the district, Adam Ceino and Fernando Martinez. [Applause] [Music] So, Adam, thank you for your six years of service to the board of education. Fernando, thank you for your three years of service. Both of you have held leadership roles as president and vice president, and your commitment to our students and schools has never wavered. Board
042service is a volunteer role that requires countless hours in meetings and often challenging conversations. Your thoughtful insight, steady leadership, and genuine care for the Mahopac Central School District have made a lasting impact. It has been my pleasure working alongside of you both. On behalf of our entire school community, thank you and I wish you nothing but the best in the future. [Music] Would anyone else from the board like to make a comment? I'd like to say something. So, just first for Fernando, he took over the president's role in March and uh uh I just want to thank him for stepping up and taking that role and taking us the rest of the year. I also want to remind him that he has six days to go, so you can't go anywhere. I already turned in
043my laptop. I'm Okay. But thanks thanks Fernando. U I know uh u we appreciate it. And then Adam, I've known Adam a while. Um long time 2020 he whispered or not so much whispered but he said, "Hey Ben, I I think you should join the board." And you know, not that many meetings. It's not so bad. It's not really stressful. So that was 20 lb. My hair was nice and dark back then. But I I seriously I want to thank Adam. He is he is everywhere. So this past week, if you've been in any events, he has been at every single one. He is a dedicated father. Um I would like him to adopt me because he's very very uh good to his kids. Uh I know he he is leaving the board for now,
044but I know he'll always be active and attending school events. So I want to thank him for his dedication to the kids and the community because with Adam it definitely comes from the heart. So I want to thank him for his his work and his friendship. So thank you Adam. Back to you. So I just like to say um thank you to the rest of the board because obviously it's a board of nine. You do not do things um by yourself. So, um, like the superintendent mentioned, there were some very difficult conversations, some very difficult challenges that together as a board we've been able to overcome and our successes were because we worked together. So, um, thank you to to everybody who I've been able to serve with. Um, it's been a pleasure. And then
045also, um, our families, right? So, um, long nights. I think the last one one of our last work sessions, you know, almost 12 midnight. Um, lots of meetings. um embarrassment for our children whenever you're walking through the school. It's like why is my dad here? So, it's it's it's a lot of things that um our families have to go through. So, it's it's not about us. I think it's more about our families and the rest of the support from the faculty. I got to meet a lot of the staff that I had no idea who they were. Um and now it's it's um an honor to be able to um know who the rest of the staff actually make the district run. So um so for that I am very appreciative of three years uh
046to be able to really understand how um the district um functions and what makes it successful. So thank you very much everybody. [Music] I thought about writing a speech and I said that's just not me. So for those who know me, I am not a man of many words. Um, thank you to my fellow board members for all their support and teamwork throughout the years. Could not have done it without you. Um, it has been truly been an honor and a pleasure. As Fernando said, it is um, a lot of support from our families. We wouldn't be here uh, without them or for them or for the community. Tonight's not about me. It's about all of you here because we're sitting here to support you in your years of service here and those of you
047that are coming on. So, unfortunately, it's goodbye to some of you. Enjoy your retirement, but welcome to those who are now with us forever hopefully. Um, so with that, thank you all again for your support u from the community as as well as uh from the staff. Um, my time is done for now, but I'll still be around and I'll see you. So, it's not goodbye. It's I'll see you later. Thank you. [Applause] So, nothing else. I think we're going to go ahead and make a motion. Oh, wait. One more. Oh, sorry. I would also like to thank Melody Loraca for her nearly eight years of dedicated service to our school district. Melody, I'm especially grateful for the support you offered me when I first arrived in Mahopak 3 years ago. It truly made a
048difference. I wish you continued success in your new role and all the best in the next chapter of your journey. Thank you. [Music] I have I have a few words on behalf of the board. So, um, as as board members whenever we first come on, um, we're like those little duckluckings that are just trying to figure out, you know, who to follow and, you know, what are we trying to do and where to go and Melody is definitely the the doc at the very front that is leading us um with all the knowledge and um being able to um help us um learn and uh really truly understand what it is to be a board member. And then also for leadership, it it's truly um been an honor and a pleasure to have Melody um
049work with us and help us and guide us. So um I've only been here for three years, but I know for I've spoken to many other former board members who has um said so many great things, you know, about Melody. So um on behalf of not just us, but former board members who are not here um that you've all the contributions you've made. So I just want to say thank you, Melody. It's not and you know most people don't see it. Um but all the late night calls, late night text messages, the um emails, everything that you worked on, it's it's it's felt and it's it's been an impact. So I just want to say thank you and we appreciate you. Um and we have a great Yeah. [Music] [Applause] What about you? [Applause] Okay.
050So, now we go ahead and um we'll make a motion to have um it's a great reason to make a motion to go into recess to have cake. He's not here. Thank you. He is here. Oh, I'm sorry. I missed that. Oh, so we do have a student representative who's going to give us a report. Sorry, I have my phone on. Do not dist disturb. I'll let I'll let you pronounce. So, we have our uh high school student representative to give a report on the high school. So Kefa Krishi, could you come up to the podium? [Applause] Uh, good evening everybody. I'm Ka Chrissy. I'm a senior here at Mayak High School and after tomorrow I'll be an alumni. So um I'm here to give you all Thank you. Um I'm here to give you
051all a few updates since the last board of ed meeting. So first from the science department on May 31st 13 first year students in the science research program participated in the summer science fair where they presented their proposed summer research project. This competition provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their research ideas and practice their presentation skills from the music department. On May 28th the MHS music department hosted its spring small ensembles concert which was held which was held alongside the TRM National Music Honor Society inductance ceremony. The concert included a variety of student performances featuring both extracurricular and student led ensembles. Additionally, there was a special guest performance on the traditional sheen showcasing the tra the talent of a worldrenowned guitarist. The evening concluded with a ceremony inducting 20 new MHS students into
052the hashtag202 chapter of the Try M uh National Music Honor Society. And lastly, we're excited to announce the creation of a new student advisory council, MHS. This council has been has been established to give students a stronger voice in our school community by providing input on important decisions, sharing ideas, and working closely with the school and faculty administration. Uh that's all I have for you guys tonight. Thank you all for your time and have a great summer. [Music] [Applause] Uh thank you for that report. Um, we were just going to move some things things around so we could get to uh part six here uh to appoint exeicio student board members. So I'd like to make a motion to uh take 6 out of order and move it uh up to now. Do we have
053any discussion? Everybody good with it? Okay. All in favor? Awesome. Okay. Okay. So, we're going to make a motion to um for the board of education hereby appoints the following students as exeicial board members for the 2526 school year effective July 1st, 2025. Can we get a motion to approve? Can we get a second? All in favor? I. Okay. So, if we can have our uh newly appointed student board members, Matthew Canelli, Sierra Gra, Sullivan Hunter, Selena Wendler, come on up and we'll take a picture with the board. Congratulations. [Applause] So these these four students, two were rising seniors, two are rising juniors, they went through a grueling application process and they even sat for an interview with the entire board where they came and impressed me and the board members with how poised they
054were, how professional they are. Um, and we're really looking forward to working with these four students. We will have them sit with the board starting July for the entire school year. Two of them will sit at every board meeting and um be contributing members of our public meetings. So, congratulations to these four students. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Are you Congrats to their parents as well. [Music] [Applause] Okay, now I want cake. So, we'll go ahead and get uh make a motion for the board to have a brief recess in order to celebrate. There's going to be going to be cake in the lobby. So, uh we invite everybody to come out to we have a lot to celebrate. Uh can we get a motion? Second. All in favor? I and we'll be right back. All right.
055Thank you everybody for that wonderful cake. And can we get a motion to come back into uh to the meeting? Can we get a second? Second. All in favor? I. Awesome. So, we'll pick up right where we left off, which is um comments on agenda items. Uh Melody, do you know if we have anybody who has signed up to speak on comment on agenda items? Ask everybody um maintain public decorum that's appropriate for school. Address the president if you're going to be addressing the board. Um please refrain from obscene language. Le lious li statement. Threats of violence. Statements advancing racial, religious or other forms of prejudice. Comments and questions should be made in a respectful manner and personal attacks, criticism of any person connected with the district are not permitted. Okay. Thank you. Members of
056the board of education, I am Tracy Casey and I'm honored to serve my friends and colleagues as a president of the Mayapac Teachers Association. It gives me great pleasure to stand before this community and speak to you today. I'm ecstatic that our budget passed. As in previous years, the MTA worked diligently to get both budgets passed. We believe that a 1.89% budget-to-budget increase was fiscally responsible. While we weren't successful the first time facing a campaign, sorry, facing a campaign pushing hard for a no vote, I am extremely glad that those who supported a robust education for our kids came out a second time. And those dangerous efforts did not backfire or hurt our community and schools more deeply than the failed budget has for next year. Successful budgets are vital to communities, our children, and
057the programs they participate in during their day as they are the launching pads for success in the future. I want to thank you trustees of the board of ed and especially superintendent Tona for being transparent and keeping the MTA informed along the way, putting forth a responsible and sustainable budget even with the unfortunate uncertainty of New York. Thank you. state aid while still meeting the ever growing needs of the district. It's important that we work together to support our community as it is our community shared. I am delighted to share with you how deeply ingrained and involved the Mayapac Teachers Association is in the Mayapac community. We are proud to award scholarships annually to deserving seniors. This year, the MTA members donated $6,000 worth of scholarships to 12 amazing Mayapac graduates. These graduates were recognized
058by Mayapac teachers for their dedication to the ideals of our association, which is committed to promoting compassion, perseverance, and a commitment to the growth of future educators who will nurture and educate the next generation. Next year, we plan to double our efforts so we can give them so we could give even more to make deserving seniors. We are beginning to plan a few events and I will be sure to invite each of you to join us to support in our community. We also had a tremendous impact on some local organizations. Our members donated needed needed items for the Putinham Northern Westchester Women's Resource Center, St. John's Food Pantry, the Pajama Project, as well as supporting local events like the Rotary Club, Club's Rock and Roll Spectacular, and United for the Troops Gala. We are proud
059to help these organizations and look forward to continuing our community outreach. As we look towards the future, let us forge one that strengthens the bonds between us. When community leaders and educators work together, children benefit. The Mayapac Teachers Association are proud members of this community with over 85 of us currently living right here in Mayapac and dozens of others who are proud graduates of Mayapac who have returned to their roots that help them grow with a desire to pay it forward. We look forward to working together and hope there will be open lines of communication with trustees so that we can all do what's best for this community that we love and have dedicated ourselves to serving. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. Do we have any others? Is Gloria here? Maybe she
060took a cake. Anybody else? Okay. Um, if you did not sign up and if you'd like to speak uh or make comments on agenda items, you're more than welcome to come up. And if not, then we'll move on to our reports and we'll start with the superintendent report. Thank you, President Martinez. I'd like to thank the community um and echo Mrs. Casey's words. Thank the community for the passage of the 2526 school budget during last week's revote. Thank you to all the members of the community that took the time to cast their vote and participate in the democratic process. I'd also like to congratulate our spring scholar athlete teams, uh, baseball, boys golf, boys tennis, flag football, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, boys track and field, and girls track and field. So each of those teams
061were identified as scholar athlete teams and they had um at least 75% of the team's roster had an average of 90 or higher for the spring season marking period. So congratulations to all those teams for their academic as well as athletic prowess. Uh and congratulations to our eighth graders who celebrated their moving up from middle school last night. to our fifth graders from Lake View and Austin Road who have celebrated uh yesterday and today. Tomorrow we'll celebrate our fifth graders from Fulmer Road. And tomorrow night the big event Mahopak High School class of 2025 2025 will graduate and become our newest alumni. Congratulations to all. I'd like to wish all of our students and 10-month staff members an enjoyable summer. We look forward to Thank you. We look forward to welcoming our incoming kindergarteners, sixth
062graders, and 9th grade students back to school. I can't believe I'm talking about back to school, but on Tuesday, September 2nd. And all of our students will return on Wednesday, September 3rd. And thank you to all of our staff members for your continued dedication to our students and to our school district. We do have a wonderfully talented staff and I am incredibly proud to serve as your superintendent. Happy summer. Thank you very much. And next will be a report on policy committee meeting. And do you have that? Uh, Trusty Travis, I don't have a minute. Okay. So, uh I'm going to present the minutes from the policy committee. It occurred on June 16th. Um starting at 7 o'clock, superintendent Christine Tona, Trustee Tanner McCracken, Trustee Lisa Carway, and Trustee Jennifer Travis, Melody Loraca, district clerk,
063and our attorney Allison Smith were present. Uh we discussed the personal electronics device policy. We talked about the the law that has now been passed that we are expected to follow. So we talked about a policy um and went through describing what that policy would look like and our next steps include um sharing with parents so we can get some input from the community as well. The next was the extreme heat condition policy. So we also want to comply with a new law that also um is implemented by September 1st. Um so we discussed what is included in that law and what the next steps would be. Um, so we're going to have our first reading of that policy on July 1 at our reorg meeting. And then also our homebound instruction policy, uh, we
064updated to reflect new required instructional hours. Uh, we discussed what those key changes would be and we're also going to discuss, um, adopting that on July 1. Next, uh, we revisited a topic from a prior meeting talking about board member employment. Um it had been previously discussed about uh creating a policy where a board member has to wait a certain amount of time before becoming an employee of the district. Um on advice from our lawyer and through a discussion, we really cannot create a policy that restricts a board member from applying. Um so moving forward, we're not going forward with that policy. And then for additional notes, we're going to have the first three policies, the cell phone, the heat, and the homebound instruction policy, all for July 1. And our meeting closed at 7:33.
065Um, and if you want to watch the video of it, it's on our website. Thank you. Thank you very much. And we already did number six, so we'll push on to number seven, which is a donation. So, uh, let it be hurt. that it be moved be or be resolved that the board of education hereby accepts a donation from the Austin Road Elementary School PTO for the Austin Road students for the Chris Powos Assembly in the amount of $2,000. The third grade field trip to the Children's Museum in the amount of $2,152, the fifth grade field trip to Kiwi in the amount of $1,000. the fourth grade field trip to the JV Lanes in the amount of $480 and Austin Road Spirit Day T-shirts in the amount of $4,235.75. Can we get a motion to
066accept? And all in favor? I. Awesome. Thank you very much to the Austin Road Elementary School PTO. And number eight is the consent agenda uh be resolved that the board of education hereby satisfies the results of the June 17th 2025 school budget to read. Yeah. So just motion to um approve the consent agenda. Can we get a second? Any discussion? All in favor? I Oh, okay. Gotcha. So all in favor except for one obstain. Um, okay. Thank you. And that puts us at resident comment. Um, Mr. Locker, do we have any members signed up for resident comment? No. Okay. Is there anybody who would like to comment from the community or in the audience? Well, with that, then we'll make a motion to close the meeting and we're going to go into room 25 and
067we're going to have a work session, but we'll just make a motion to close the meeting. Can I get a motion? Second, whatever works. All in favor. Have a good night. Thank you everybody. Congratulations again.