Bay Shore Board of Education Work/Public Session Meeting - April 21, 2026

001Okay, we're live again, folks. We'll do a motion again for the sake of the camera. Can we get a motion to go into work session, please? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? >> All right. Motion carries. We're back to work work session. Uh for the folks out there in TV land, uh we just had some technical difficulties. Cheryl, you did start. You want to start all over again, please? >> Two-year district plan on special ed. Thanks. >> Okay. Thank you. [snorts] Okay. So, the special education two-year district plan um is something that is mandated by New York State for all public schools. Um what Lisa and I did was take our current plan. We made some revisions to that plan um based on changes in our program ratios

002over the last couple of years um and we changed the format, made it a little more user friendly um more of an easy read if you will um and we're going to highlight just some of the sections that um just to highlight in terms of changes. Okay. So, if you turn to page eight in your district plan in front of you, you'll notice that we have the programs, the special education programs. So, really the only change there is the ratios. Um, we used to have a 611 program. We no longer do. So, that was removed from that section. So, that would be on page nine. [snorts] And that just summarizes the programs that we offer here. If you turn to section five, which is on page 25, we just updated information on the graduation requirements

003and the SEOs um diploma credential. So, that's in there now. It wasn't in our previous plan. If you turn to section A, page 39, it starts on and this will obviously change each time that we have to update the plan. That just includes the information regarding our students, their classifications, the ranges and their settings. So that will be updated as we update the plan every two years. And then section 12 is just the budget which again changes when we need to update it to reflect what's happening during that time period. [clears throat] >> And really um this district plan is really just memorializing what we currently do in special education in terms of our programs um the programs that are offered in our school district um and then also the procedures with referral to special

004education for both cse and CPSE so preschool and special education. Um, so it's really just compiling all that information and just putting it in this plan, of course, available to parents. And then our intention in sharing it with parents is to send out a parent square once it's approved um with information on how to access it through the website and then we would have it on the website so that people have a hyperlink to it and they can get it if they need it. >> Questions? I'm just curious like so when I I don't know if this is for brand new parents into special ed or if it changes every single year like I know that you guys are there for the parents but like are you I know you have meetings every year with

005them but are like do you feel like you have to especially with all the different changing and and the requirements the state puts on you like like do you find that changing between your communication with the parents is it more like a consultation now versus a here's what we're you know I don't know I don't really know what I'm asking but [laughter] like I just feel It's so much information for a parent to take in. >> It is. >> Um what's nice about the new parents guide to special education um that the state just came out with for this year um that's available. It wasn't available in Spanish and just became available in Spanish. Um it's nice because it has a lot of this information in that the parents guide. So that is even more

006user friendly. It has um it breaks it down in a different way in terms of the continuum of special education in that process which is highlighted in the plan. So that is definitely a version that we always share with parents and that's on a yearly basis. >> Anyone else? >> All right. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> This was a lot of work. [laughter] >> Great summary. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Next item on the agenda has to do with America's birthday. America 250. Mr. Lane, please. >> He's got All right. Good evening. Uh, thank you for giving me this opportunity to talk to you about uh the district's plan to celebrate America's 250th birthday. So the on July 4th uh 2026 this coming uh July 4th uh America will be turning 250th

007and uh you can see from the slides that they originally coined it as the semiquincentennial uh and I'm very happy that they have also coined it as America 250 uh because even I have to pause every time I say semiquincentennial. So I can only imagine what our youngest learners would uh would would say when they were trying to pronounce it. Uh so on on this on this it's it's it's celebrating on July 4th but we're really celebrating across the country. Starting last year they started to kind of plan and celebrate uh for for this momentous uh event. Uh and the celebration isn't just in one place. It's across the country. Uh so there are celebrations planned nationally at the state level and the local level. Uh at the national level they're doing things. Uh they

008had a New Year's Eve uh celebration at the Washington Monument. They have other fireworks shows planned. They have a mobile exhibit that's going around the country. Uh and they also have uh an American state fair planned for this July uh which is going to bring in all like the states to put on exhibits to kind of uh honor the country and then show the progress that we've made. Uh at the state level uh similar to to the national level, they they're doing celebrations. They've moved the air show. I usually go to the air show on Memorial Day, but now it's being moved to July 4th. Uh so Governor Hokll moved it to July 4th to give more uh meaning to to the to the 250th anniversary. Uh they also are doing a bunch of lectures

009throughout the state uh hosted virtually and in person. Uh and then there's other exhibi other celebrations planned uh locally specific specifically focusing on Suffach County. Uh they're doing a lot of tours at the historical sites around Long Island. Uh there's exhibits. Uh there's fireworks shows. Uh there's there's events at at Duck Stadium. And there's many other celebrations. So with all these celebrations happening across the country, uh Beayshore wanted to join in. Uh and we're going to be honoring America and the 250th anniversary uh starting this school year. So to begin uh we we we wanted to to bring in some instructional material uh to kind of aware uh raise awareness and provide context to the students. Uh so earlier this year we formed together a collegial circle uh made up of four uh four educators

010uh and our goal was to create these lessons at every grade level uh to give them that awareness and the context they need to understand why they see America 250 at the Super Bowl. right? Why they see Jeep commercials being played uh when they're watching their their their favorite cartoons on the TV. Uh so we put together a collegial circle made up of four educators. Uh and as we were getting started with our research, we we identified these two resources as uh important guides to how we were developing the curriculum. uh the AA AASH, which is the American Association for Local and State History, uh put out a a a field guide kind of giving resources and themes on how organizations can celebrate uh America 250. Uh New York State followed suit and they put

011out their own uh field guide going off of the AASLH's field guide uh but kind of targeting those themes to more New York topics. Uh some of the topics include uh we the people uh power of place and unfinished revolutions. So where the AASLH was more nationally, New York was focused on how those topics relate to New York. So we looked at these resources. Uh we spent a lot of time going over these resources, kind of figuring out what theme we wanted to focus on. Uh, and we decided that K through five, even though it's broken into different grade bands, K through five is focusing on power of place because it relates really well to their curriculum about community. So, specifically, they're focusing on how has your community evolved and changed in the past 250

012years. Obviously, we're our community is going to be Beayshore. So, they're going to be taking a look at uh how Beayshore has changed uh over the years. uh their lesson starts off with a surprise birthday. They ask their students, "Hey, there's a birthday coming and then eventually it leads to America's turning 250." So, they're setting the context there to give them uh the the the awareness of okay, there's a big celebration happening and then they're going to bring it in in a little bit locally and and and focus on how Beayer has changed. So, um, for our collegial circle, for the K through two, um, Christy Amsler, a kindergarten teacher from, uh, Brook Avenue was chosen. Uh, for 3 through five, uh, a third grade teacher from Gardener Matter, Robert Douly, was chosen. Uh, for

013sixth through eight, uh, a social studies a seventh grade social studies teacher, Chip Giuliano. And I say it's going to be his lasting mark because he's retiring. So, this is his legacy. Yeah. He's going to he was we worked really hard to put together something that is meaningful. Uh and then for 9 through 12 we have a social studies teacher John Sahoski. Uh without these four individuals none of this would have been possible. They spent countless hours working collaborating with each other to put together these amazing resources for our students. Uh so K through five again they're focusing more on Basher history. Uh so eventually through their slideshow they're going to get to America's turning 250 provide a little bit more information about that uh to give a little bit more meaning uh to to

014the celebration. When we move to grades 6 through 8 uh 6 through 8 is focusing on like project based activity uh focusing on key figures, events and documents throughout US history to look at the legacy of the declaration. So the focus of that research, even though they're going to choose different individuals, the focus of that research is going to be how they can relate to one of the last lines of the declaration talks about the the signers taking a sacred uh sacred pledge uh sacred honor and a mutual pledge. So throughout their research, they're going to look at how these different individuals and movements throughout history are continuing that sacred honor of of of taking on the mutual pledge together as indicated in our Declaration of Independence. So they're going to work and they're going

015to create a project. Uh there's a little freedom for those middle schoolers to to create. They can create a presentation. They can write an essay. They can create a poster. We just want to see their create creativity come through uh with their guided research. Um, and I just want to shout out Amy Miller from the Beayshore Middle School. She put together a really nice resource resource sheets for the students to look at, uh, which is like a guided research rather than sending them out onto the web and saying, "Go find some information." We have like targeted sites that we'd like them to use. And then moving on to 9 through 12, uh, Mr. Sahoski has put together the most analytical [snorts] activity. It's looking at the legacy of the declaration. Uh where we're going to

016take a look at the words of the declaration, their meaning of the declaration, and then we're going to see how they've used the how other movements around the country and and throughout our past have used that declaration to further their movements. So, we're going to take a look on how it was initially for one set set of uh one group of people, but eventually it included multiple groups of people um because we'll you'll see the direct uh correlation between their documents that they're putting out with the Declaration of Independence. So, all of this was put together uh by the Collegial Circle. Uh we're up to the point where we're going to start implementing it into our classrooms. We're going to talk about the timeline of when this is going to be implemented. We didn't want

017to make this a burden and tell them you have to do it on this day. We want to give them a time a time frame to implement it so they could fit it best into their classroom uh to make this uh a celebration rather than a burden. So we wanted to include more than just instructional materials because nothing says celebration like a lesson plan. Uh so we wanted to add some other activities uh to kind of bring the the celebration to life. Uh so at the secondary level um in conjunction with the building admin and they've been really good with any idea that we've come up with they're they were saying yes let's run with it because uh they're seeing the value of it as well. Uh so shout out to all the building principles

018and all the assistant principles for really helping us uh bring this to life. Uh so at the secondary level we've created something called the path to independence museum uh where we have key figures uh and key events leading to the declaration of independence which will be displayed uh in the social studies wing up here in the high school uh and also at the middle school in the front hallway around uh along the brown paneling in the front hallway. Uh and like I said, those are going to be the key individuals, the unsung heroes of the revolution, and then also key events leading. So there'll be 19 different stations that students can learn. Uh they can learn about George Washington. So because each station will have a key uh a card with information about the event

019or the person. We also were were able to secure the declaration of 1776, the big bang mo of modern democracy exhibit uh put together by Gilder Lumen. Uh so this exhibit is a seven panel exhibit which is going to be displayed for the first two weeks at the middle school and then the second two weeks of May at the high school. Uh and what this does it it talks about this panel here talks about the the formation of the declaration but the other six panels talk about the legacy and how other groups around uh the world have used the declaration as a guiding resource to bring freedom to to to many groups of people. So, we're really excited to have this displayed uh in the little theater lobby here at the high school and also

020at the little theater in the middle school. Uh we put together a resource guide for the for the teachers to use uh which centers on uh Dr. King's uh line from the I have a dream speech that calls the declaration a promisary note. So, we're using that line to formulate the evidence that they're gaining as they're going through this exhibit uh to see if they they agree that this was a promisary note. uh or not. Uh and then the middle school, we are doing door decorating. So uh in April and May, the advisory activity has been door decorating. So if you go through uh the middle school uh in the near future, you're going to see that it is painted red, white, and blue, and it's not actual paint. We made that clear. Don't use

021paint on the doors. Uh but to uh decorate to celebrate America 250. Uh so those are some of the activities at the secondary level. At the elementary level, uh we also have uh the path to independence museum which has been modified uh for the younger learners. Uh we've provided a museum walk guide uh to give them a little bit more from that instead of just seeing the posters on the wall. Uh we have building decorations. So we created coloring activities uh so if they don't want to put up the path independence museum because it's it may not be appropriate for their their their school uh they can they can do the coloring activities uh which are generic right there is America 251s but then we also created specific for the building. So you can see

022the example on the board it says Brook Avenue celebrates America 250 it's got patriotic theme and then it's got Brook Avenue in the center uh so that those students can color and they can decorate the building that way. Uh they there's also activities planned at the uh the K through five buildings for parades. There's nothing like a good parade at the younger kid the younger buildings. The excitement is there. Uh so we'll see a red, white, and blue parade marching through the hallways uh in in in in May or June. Um the last piece was one of the last pieces we want to share is the Suffach 250 passports. Um the this is an initiative put out by Suffach County to kind of raise awareness for the different historical sites around Long Island. Uh so

023we were lucky enough to order uh enough passports for grades 3 through 8. So we're going to be able to give each kid in grades 3 through eight one of these physical copies of the Long Island passport so they can go around Long Island and they can uh document their journey. So at each stop inside the passport, so on the board uh we see Sacritos Manor, which is one of the featured sites, uh they can go to Sacritos Manor and what better than to go on May 3rd for Beayshore Brightwaters Day. Uh and you can get your Sacritos Manor stamp uh for your passport. Um we we we were not able to order for all grades, but this is available digitally to print. Um so if anyone needs it, it is available digitally or as

024a print copy. Uh we did a little research and we we we found that about 25 sites are within like 10 miles of beayshore. So there's a lot of opportunity for our students to go out into Long Island. It's Suffach County and learn about our involvement in the Revolutionary War. So it's a great experimental learning experience for the students to kind of get out on Long Island and learn about some of the history. So to inform the community of all of our planned uh events, uh we we do plan to send out a post via parent square. And at the same time as informing the district uh the community of what we're doing, we plan to launch something called the uh why I love Beayshore photo gallery uh which is going to uh request photos

025from the community of their favorite places uh in Beayshore, right? Why they love Beayshore. Uh we want to put Beayshore at the heart of our celebration. And so what better way than to to get the community to send send in pictures uh of their local their local spot that they that they love, right? Uh from today, from yesterday uh just to kind of put together this big celebration of of why we love Beayshore. So that's all I have. Thank you. And I am happy to answer any questions that that you may have. >> That's very cool. Um I I have a question that you may or may not know the answer. Um I I've heard on some social media that New York City is not doing this. Is that true or is that just bad?

026>> I'm not 100% sure about that. >> Okay. >> Yeah, I haven't heard that. I can look into that. >> That would be interesting. >> I just don't know if it's the naysayers. >> Yeah. A lot of history. >> A lot of history. >> Yeah. Yeah. We're excited about those passports to to kind of get them in the kids' hands to make raise awareness of the history here. >> So, the passports like is it kind of a scavenger hunt or do you just get a stamp whenever you go to >> It's basically just a stamp when you go to the different sites. >> A real passport. >> Yeah, it's fun. >> Um >> kids love a stamp. >> Yeah. Yes, they do. And we were we were informed that the delivery of the uh the

027passports is not going to be just a FedEx delivery. Uh, I think there's going to be Ed Roma, other elective officials, and members of the historical society delivering those passports. So, it'll be a nice a nice event to uh to to have. >> Maybe they can be in one of your parades. >> Maybe they could be in our parade. Yes. Yes. >> Can you tell me the representatives that form that collegial circle that put together this material? >> Yeah, absolutely. How were they chosen? >> Yeah. So, so they were Yeah, with collaboration with the building admin, we approached some of the the the then I approached some of the names that were recommended uh to to see if they had interest in joining the collegial circle. So, it was a combination of uh the building

028admin and then also their willingness to to join >> do a lot of extra work. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It took it took a lot of time to put this together. where we met five or six times uh as a group and then there was also other times where they had to work on their own to to put this together. But they did a really nice job uh to put all these materials together. >> And you said these SUFFK 250 passports, they're available digitally. >> Yep. >> You know where? >> Uh the SUFFK 250 has a website. If you go to the site 250 >> Yeah. Okay. >> Yeah, I'll find it. >> Yep. >> All right. Thanks. >> No problem. >> Thanks. Appreciate you. >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Mark. >> Okay, Rob, you

029want to try to follow that? >> I [laughter] mean, he brought banners. I don't know what you have. >> Yeah, I don't have any banners. I don't have a I don't have a crew boat or anything to bring for you, unfortunately. But in your packet, you do have a request uh for a riotta that is coming up. uh this is something that um they have to qualify for as a group. So hence the less amount of time that they typically would provide this to you. Um but it is for a regata in Saratoga Springs. It's one of two that they attend typically on an annual basis. Uh the majority of the costs, they're not all listed there, but the majority of the costs are being covered by the district. The students are expected to cover

030their hotel costs for the days that they are at the riata. >> Sir Rob, this question's come up in the past with regard to the number of adults. So it's three adults, but a lot of families do wind up going up. Is there that kind of support there or is can you just speak to us about that? >> Yeah, that struck me also. 42 kids >> 42 adults. >> I'd have to ask Mr. Agustinino. I I don't honestly I don't know. I mean, I'm I'm pretty sure that's standard for the for the crew team. they don't typically require. It's not, you know, it's it's different than, let's say, a field trip where they're going to a location where there's a lot of uh places, you know, that that kids can go to. So, I think

031it's probably pretty standard, but I'll have I'll get some more clarification from Mr. Agustinino and try to uh share that maybe in the Friday letter update. >> So, I don't I don't know like what you know what our ratios are, but I've gone to this three years yet. Yeah, I went for three years. Um, and I would say more than 50% of the team has at least one family member there. A lot of people just make it. It's on Mother's Day every year. So, a lot of people just go and it's a big great family thing. And um the kids basically from Friday they get there and they are they have to go set up other boats for whatever hours and then they're allowed to go to dinner and then they go to the hotel

032and then Saturday they get up early in the morning and they all get on a bus and they go and they're at the riata the whole day until dinnertime again. Um and the same thing with Sunday until they leave. So they're kind of all in the same place the whole time. Y yeah. >> Um you know, so the only time that they're really kind of on their own is is during dinner time. And they do let them into town for Saratoga, but they have strict rules about when they are have to be back at the hotel and how far they can go off of Main Street and that kind of stuff. And um I I mean they've the the four years that my daughter was on it, there was never an incident. I should knock

033on wood for them to this year, but um you know, they just kind of all kind of hang out together. And my understanding again with with Chris shared was that every student that's attending is the hotel. They're not sharing with another student. They're sharing it with a family member. >> So So I would assume that there are a number of adults, but I don't have the the total >> number of chaffrons. That's why I don't want to speak a lot. Well, I'll tell you a lot of people stay across the way from the hotel that the kids stay at. But and there are parents that stay in there, but the kids stay together. We pay the the the students pay for their rooms, but the they put the students together. >> Yeah, I I have

034to get that information from >> So, Rob, on on a back page, it says uh Coachman does not have availability for May 8th through 10th. >> So, what does that mean? >> That was provided, but they're taking a Hampton Jity. I don't know why that information was provided in there. They they share the paperwork with us. We just share it with we share it with you. I I don't know why that was included. >> Okay. >> So, sorry. >> No, no, it's good. I I think the [snorts] way I read it was that she gave the history of we tried to do it through them but when we couldn't then we >> because it's more expensive to take a jney. That's why >> could be. >> Yeah. And I think that's why I think >>

035Jney is a better bus better. >> That was their first place they went. So I would agree with you guy. >> Yeah. And that family family participation that's an acceptable uh explanation. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> I think >> and she did a really good job. Um, the itinerary is so detailed. She did a really good job with that. I really kudos to her. So, all right. Anyone have any questions? No objections, I'm assuming. Okay. So, we can tell them that that's a good thing. Teddy walks in. >> They can go to the regata. >> I answered all the questions. [laughter] >> Yeah. Hello. Goodbye. >> I know you weren't here for it, Ted. I'm not calling you out on it. Okay. Just uh so thanks. Um >> do you want to go to Teddy since

036he's he came early just to uh present the request. >> Okay. So >> because it's not on the agenda. >> Okay. I'm out of breath. [laughter] Didn't get a speeding ticket getting back here. All right. >> What would you like me to share? >> Just a question for the American Boy [laughter] Project. >> Okay. [clears throat] So, um, those of you who had the opportunity to attend this past fall for the American Boy Project, it was a pretty, uh, eyeopening, heartbreaking, and real experience to be there. Um, they have [clears throat] looked to do it again. They said out of all the ones they've done, that was one of the best ones despite the rain and the lower attendance that they hoped to have. But their message was delivered. The teams were competitive, and the

037fact that there were three local teams between Maris, Fairfield, and St. John's helped booster the Long Island attendance of people who are in here. Um they felt because of the connection to the community that would be a great opportunity to come back again this year. Um as far as anything else you have questions about it that you can >> our students attend for free. >> Yeah. So the deal was um our athletes younger youth players get to go to their clinic for free. So they don't have to pay the admission price. They get to go to the clinic for free. Last year was the rain. We didn't have a lot of kids at the clinic, but the kids who went did have a good time. They were very impressed to get to work with division

038one athletes, which was a nice little key for them. >> Yeah. >> What was the heartbreaking part? You lost. >> So, the message is about opioid addiction and the the Mgalli family shares their personal introjection about how their son became addicted to opioids. And uh the one thing that sticks with me is that him and his sister used to play video games all the time. and talked about he always used to whoop her and then you know he was gone and she had nobody to play the video games with and she's wheelchair bound. She has a very degenerative disease, you know, and they're very close-knit with what they have to do to survive for her and um you know there's a big void in their life and their whole message was going forward to try

039and share that to people and they said at these games and we can save one or two lives or get somebody into rehabilitation then we've done our job. And all the money that they raise is used to go to help people who can't afford um rehabilitation or they run out of money because insurance doesn't cover anymore. They put all the money into what they call quote unquote scholarships to help people. >> It's a tremendous focus of what this is all about. >> Absolutely. Absolutely. You know, and they have a connection to a family in Beayshore who is deeply involved in this activity and bringing it and participating that day. And I have to say just I put together a committee of people from Beayshore who were connected to lacrosse and they were there. We set

040up the nets with Rob cleaned up set. I mean they were just phenomenal and you know it was it was really a nice community organized event again despite the weather factor. >> Yeah. >> And they're looking for the same weekend. It's the Sunday of Columbus Day. It's actually easier because there's no varsity home football game which was homecoming last year. So little less stress >> and hopefully then the turnout will be that much better. >> We're hoping it'll be that much better. And what the reason they try and get it early so that they they give first right of refusal to the teams that were here last year and if they choose not to come back they'll start to search out other teams who would come back and play. >> Fantastic. >> Sounds like a

041great thing for us to be connected with. >> Yep. That's a win-win all around. >> That's great. >> Yeah. Thanks for running up. >> You got it. I'll see you in a little bit. >> Very well done on short notice. >> All righty. You want to do the budget or you want to do the policies? What would you rather? I mean, you ready? >> Let's go then. >> Do we also have to vote? >> We'll stay in order. So, this is our budget session number six, folks, >> as we um get ready for the vote. [clears throat] >> [clears throat] [laughter] >> other direction. >> Yeah, keep going. >> Oh, thank you. Okay. So, remember we took a close look at this or a little look at this about a week ago because most of

042it is information that you already have maybe just processed into a different format. Uh the three pieces that are still outstanding are the three that are highlighted only have one for you tonight. We're still working on uh getting answers on some of the other things. Did Were you able Did you get hard copies? Okay. All right. I had to ask Marisol to bring him down. I think there might have been a miscommunication. >> So, we will send you in the Friday letter uh a hard copy of this. This is your five-year capital plan. And >> we got that last week. >> There's nothing. There are no new projects on this, right? We presented >> We got that last week >> with the callers in it. >> Uh >> I don't think I think you have

043you update the colors. >> Okay. >> All right. So, it's the same plan. It's the same projects. It's the same costs. We haven't really changed any of that. What I wanted to do was start planning out the next couple of years. Um, so you had an idea where we're going. So, what I have done is anything that was pre 26 is in blue. So, and I think we were all everything's been built and closed out up until 2425. So pre-26 is really 24 25 26 26 27 which is in next year's proposed budget that we're going to put out to vote in a month is green and then I've looked at 2728 2829 2930 everything is colorcoded Joe Hadoski and I sat down we kind of double checked our numbers and our estimates uh we

044talked about priority what has to get done first, what can be put on hold for a couple years. And that's those were the decisions that we made. But what I really wanted you to see at the bottom of this last page, um, this money comes from our transfer to capital line in the general fund budget. We have had up until a couple years ago, we had $2.5 million annually in that line. And then as debt service began falling off, we left the debt service that was falling off in the transfer to capital with the with the idea that maybe at some point this might come into play with the closing out of uh the CBA settlements and that we could kind of balance any tax implications with this mechanism. So this is this is really

045just for you so that you remember in the years to come uh my plan at this point this year I have the seven and a half built in because we have all of the additions and alterations that we've discussed for the special ed education programs at the middle school and high school. So I left it at seven and a half plus the tail end CVA. We're still trying to make these last these last couple of pieces that we're trying to connect to the puzzle. But I do anticipate in 2728 dropping it to five and then in 2829 dropping it to 2.5 and then in 2930 depending on what things look like. Right now I only have 1250 in projects scheduled for 2930 but if we have cost overruns in the five years up until that

046point we may uh just leave it at the 2.5 and 2.5 is what it has been right for 10 years prior to uh the debt service dropping off and us increasing this number a little bit. So you've kind of got a long-term plan. It takes everything off of our list that would need to be funded through capital, which doesn't mean I mean these are big facilities with thousands of people utilizing them every day. So, um things will continue to need repair and improvement, right? So, new projects will come onto the list, but this has really taken everything off the list. Anything that's in gray is considered low priority, like putting generators in buildings. Um, additional elevators, which you don't have to do because the buildings are grandfathered in, so it's not required. I mean, there

047are projects that maybe you might like to do. Maybe, maybe, maybe not. I didn't include any of those. Um, and anything in white is something where the cost is small enough that it can be funded by the general fund budget, by our buildings and grounds budget. So really everything on our 5-year list is covered by the end of 2930 and you've brought that transfer to capital back down uh to where it should be moving forward. Okay. >> All right. >> I don't think that everybody realizes the importance of what you're doing with this five-year plan and how it's taking care of the buildings because there's tons of tons of school districts that wait to do everything in a in a big bond. Mhm. >> And we do it we do it the right way by

048taking projects every year, allocating some money to do everything. And that's how our buildings look the way they do and our guys that that that take care of them. So kudos to them. Kudos to you. Uh and we get things done. And this way we don't have that big bond to go out to the community with every, you know, every 20, 30 years. >> You know, >> you should mention it's and you mention it because you know more about it than me. It's not just the looks. >> Yeah. It's what they do and they do a great job. >> the structural value of the of everything we have. So, >> good job. Really good job. >> Appreciate that. >> Um, this page we talked about a little bit. This the two big numbers on this

049page that you want to uh always keep your eye on, right? are your budgettobudget increase, which um next year under the proposed 2627 budget will be 4.7%. That's a little high. It's a little higher than we'd been, but that's because of the the generous state aid that we received, right? That drives the expenditure budget up, all of that additional state aid. We are still at the tax cap as we have been every year basically since the uh induction of the tax cap except for that one year many many years ago. Um, and then you want to look at your percent increase, um, anticipated percentage increase in the tax levy at this point in time because we are not making any assumptions on assessments and we are not making any assumptions on base proportions. It is

050flat between the categories. So whether you look at homestead rate, non-h homestead rate, unified rate, it's all a 1.5% increase on the levy. I would anticipate based on the pattern that we're that we're moving through that uh that the 1.5% for homestead properties will drop uh because assessments will remain relatively flat. they tend to go down a tiny bit because of grievances from year to year or or stay pretty stable. Commercial property, you still have the mall coming into play for the next few years. So, I would expect a significant reduction in assessed value for commercial property. Uh, and the base proportion split is now trending in favor of the homeowner. So, I would anticipate the 1.5 for the homeowners to come down and the 1.5 for commercial property do go up quite a bit.

051[snorts] Um, but we don't have any of that information until the summer. Uh, so we won't know what the actual numbers are until September. So, for now, if anybody asks, you're talking points. 4.7% budgetto budget because of the state aid, a generous state aid increase by the state. uh 1.5 on the tax rate, but uh in all likelihood much lower and uh and we are at the tax cap, right? Those are your three talking points. And here here are your state aid assumptions and projections which we couldn't do anything about because we don't have a state budget. >> Yeah. So that just >> it's three weeks late now. Is is there any sense that we're going to have a budget even by the time we vote? >> I think what they only extended it till

052Wednesday this time. >> Thursday. So, usually when they start doing less than a week, you're get they're getting close. They know that they're close. >> Okay. >> So, it doesn't mean that the state aid estimates will be out, but >> I've heard that education is not really the biggest sticking point right now. So, our numbers shouldn't really what they're all saying, but >> any other questions? Anybody? Nope. >> Thanks, >> Jo. >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Morin. >> And so the last thing is the policy reads. So, um, I guess I'll turn it over to you, guy, and then we can toss it around. >> I'm going to ask Christina to read the I mean, Caitlyn to read the, uh, what we changed. We didn't really change anything. We just made that change the last

053time we were here. So, the display of the flag, we were still that's still up in uh the display of the flag were is still we're still looking for suggestions on changes to that and and topic of conversation for that part. But I did uh put in on the board member training what we talked about the requirement for all board members to have at least one training um each year and that closed out the board member training policy. >> Okay. So let's um have an understanding with regard to the board member training. We're ready to put that up to vote at the next public. Everyone agreed with that. >> Okay. So we'll do that. Uh with regard to the flag, we're still playing with language. I I >> have I think one of the things

054that we're going to I'm going to ask, can you send this to us in a word document? >> Yes. >> If you do that, then I'll I'll type in my own suggestions, thoughts, etc. So, if you send it to as a word document, we can all make additions and then we can maybe hammer it out finally next time around. Does that sound good? >> Yes. because I I know we've talked about it and we've gone back and forth and we we really need to just come up with language that's consistent with um um not only what Beayore wants and and and we all have our own thoughts with regard to the Bashore way um but on top of that also the new way that funerals are being done and conducted and people aren't necessarily having

055funerals within three or four days. Yeah. >> And so if you say we're going to leave the flag at half mass till the funeral, that really changes things because that could be a month away. >> So um we we need to come up with language to to find our way. >> We just need to insert it that uh if the you know the funeral's not being right away, it's it's day of the funeral, something like that. And then you know, as long as we're notified. >> Yeah. You know, >> so so let's all come up with the language, right? If I if I get a word document, I will play with it that much. It's a lot easier for me personally. Got it. I agree with you. >> And [clears throat] then everyone can do

056that. and then we can get together and and hash it out. >> I'll send it all to you. >> Sound good? >> Okay, great. >> Okay, thanks. So, um that's it. That's on the agenda. So, um we um we're going to have public session. I know a few of you have walked in already. Um that's going to start now at 6:00. We can't start earlier, so we have about 10 minutes to um hang out. And um so, um >> Mr. Aruri, I don't know if you want Dr. Bologoney, David has his report. Do you want him to deliver it now or should we wait till public session? >> Um David, what would you like? Would you like to wait or you >> Um I can do it. >> All right, let's do that. That's a

057great idea, Rob. Thanks. Um so, so just for everyone in TV land as well as you folks in the room, David typically gives a report as to what's going on with regard to the schools. Um it's very informative. So, um take it away, Dave. >> Thank you. Um so, good evening. I'm excited to share some recent highlights across our school district for the month of March. Um, at UPK in celebration of neurodeiversity, the students made a kindness chain to represent friendship, kindness, and acceptance. In celebration of World Heritage Day, the students shared and learned about each other's cultures and traditions through lessons, discussions, videos, posters, and music. And students and staff dressed in attire, which also represented their heritage. At Brook Avenue School, they are celebrating diversity month as well. Students designed a flower representing

058their uniqueness, contributing to a schoolwide mural symbolizing their growth together. Uh staff participated in teacher-led informational session sessions on special education support roles and tools. During the recent faculty meeting at Fifth Avenue School, first grade students participated in the annual March Madness literacy event. They read and voted on a series of picture books over several rounds. The celebration peaked with the big reveal, not quite Narwhal one. Fifth Avenue School also anticipates the 16th International Night program as a celebration of global culture and community pride at the school. Mary G. Clarkson School celebrated PARP, which is pick a reading partner last month and read over 107,000 minutes. They ended the month with the first ever PARP pep rally where students earned prizes. The cheer club cheered them on and winning classes had the chance to silly

059string the principles at Garner Manor School as part of the whole school read mystery reader surprise classrooms including a visit to some fifth grade classes from middle school principal Mr. McDougall students are enjoying the new playground edition as well and the mini marauders launched their monthly newsletter which keeps staff and family informed and connected. At South Country Schools, third graders enjoyed a field trip to the Long Island Museum. Teachers continued to grow through engaging HMH literacy professional development sessions. Parents participated in anformational meeting about the upcoming New York State Assessments. And the fifth grade circus was a tremendous success for our school community. Behore Middle School held its student council volleyball challenge on March 13th, bringing students together for an evening of friendly competition. On March 24th, the middle school hosted its sixth grade spring

060orientation, welcoming incoming sixth graders for the and their families to learn more about the school community as students prepare for the transition to middle school. And finally, at the high school, as we begin the fourth marking period, many celebratory events have and will continue to take place. On March 25th, the class of 2026 spent the night dancing and making memories at our senior banquet held at the Piermont in Babylon. On the 25th, the class of 2027 will enjoy their junior prom held right here at Visure High School. And that in concludes the monthly report. Thank you for our continued support of our schools and students. >> Thanks, David. >> Good to have you. >> And it was also very good to hear that the junior prom is going forward that the attendance is there for

061it. So, great news. Glad glad you guys got that out. >> Um, okay. So, we still have about five minutes. So, can we have a motion to adjourn from the uh work session before we go then into the public? [clears throat] >> Motion, please. >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I Okay, so we're journed. You guys can relax. Thanks Mike. Um good evening again folks. Um we now are going to the public session for those of you who were here and for those you guys and folks who have joined us. So let's start with can I have a motion to go to into the public session? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I I >> motion carries. Um let's start with the pledge of allegiance if we may folks

062and uh how about coach you lead us out on the pledge of allegiance please. >> 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. This is mine, right? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. So, um couple things. >> Um we generally, um uh have questions and comments from the audience and we take that with regard to general stuff at the end of the meeting. However, if anyone has any questions or comments with regard to anything that we're going to be voting on that's on the agenda, we would take those first. So, does anyone have any questions with regard to agenda items? All right. Hearing none, we'll move on. Um, so this is

063a good night. Um, we have u certainly some um important students that we want to recognize and I think I'm gonna start with Mr. Agassino. Okay, Chris, >> thank you everybody for having us here today. Um, I feel like it was just yesterday we were here. Um so today we're going to talk a little bit about the great success we had with our basketball program and um you know a lot of kids are not here today unfortunately because they got a lot of things going on but we brought coach here. We're going to talk a little bit uh about the greatness that this team did for us this year u for behind kind of start us off and then we're going to bring in coach Williams afterwards. I'll have those. >> Thanks Chris. Feels [snorts]

064like it was just minutes ago I was here. [laughter] >> Did you catch your breath? At least I'm a little I'm refreshed right now. I'm good. Caught your breath. All good. So, thank you everybody for this opportunity for us to honor our basketball team, which is welld deserved. After losing your head coach and a 65 guard, many people did not believe that the Basha Marauders would be relevant this year. Those people did not include the two coaches and 16 players in that hopefully would have been here tonight in the auditorium and their families as well. Coach Gary Williams and his assistant Chris Obi, both alumni, led the marauders in fine fashion. By the end of the season, everyone knew Beayshore was relevant and a force to be dealt with. The Marauders captured their 15th County

065Championship, second Long Island Championship in three years, and overall beayshore's sixth Long Island Championship in history. Not too bad for a program that was third seated going into the playoffs. Before introducing Coach Williams, I would like to share a brief historic fact for the basketball program, which does include Coach Williams. The Marauders have won three of our Long Island championships under three coaches that all played for Beayshore. Legendary Coach Benny Mau, legendary coach Ken Parm, and soon to be legendary coach Gary Williams. Not too bad for a program that's only 120 years young. Without further ado, and as Mike Brown introduced him before each and every game, the man, the myth, the legend, Coach Gary Williams. [applause] >> Thank you so much. Thank you. Um, first off guys, this is this is not lightly. This

066is not go lightly. Like this is an honor. So, first off, I want to thank you all for this recognition. And guys, you should really take heed to this because this is something that you can treasure. Some of you guys have been here twice. So, and we're hoping to make some of you guys here uh twice as well. So, thank you all for coming. Um, this year was a really, really tough year. um just because I was uncertain about taking back over the reigns. But once I sat back and looked at the program in a whole, not just the varsity team, but the program in a whole way down to you'll be you might laugh to our fourth and fifth graders. I mean, our fourth and fifth graders are amazing. And for the last three

067years, I've been working with them and I could not could not could not leave them. So once I looked at it that way, it was just so easy for me to take back over the reigns and just continue to add to legacy. So I really appreciate this. I know the uh the guys really appreciate this. And um I'll start reading off some names. >> So first Michael. [applause] >> Once you get these, we can line them right over there. We'll take a picture. Coach, why don't you come up and help? >> I know he looks over the top of you a lot, but you got to help him out. [laughter] [snorts] >> James Huber. [applause] Alex Vento. [applause] I have to say something about this. I have to say something about this kid. I really

068do. Not often do you see a kid work his way from the third string to a starting role in a pivotal pivotal role for both Suffach County and national uh excuse me Long Island Championship. This kid did not stop did not stop. He just was even killed through the whole season and took advantage when his time came. And like super proud of you, Alex. Super proud of you. [applause] [applause] >> [snorts] >> Joe Leante. [applause] William Forbes. [applause] >> Um, and the last player that would like to talk about, Mr. Corey Fins. [applause] >> [applause] >> So much to say about this guy right here. Like so much. Um when I first came here, he was so I'm going to say shy. He was very very shy. And then all of a sudden I remember

069seeing one like showing showing a clip of him learning to dunk. clip after clip touching the net, touching the rim, dunking with a tennis ball, dunking it with a basketball to what you see right now on that screen. This guy is the epitome of work. Like seriously, he's put in the work. He's focused. And the accolades speak for themselves. League 2 player of the year, class double uh AAA Suffach player of the year. That's the big schools. Okay. News day first team all line all all Long Island as well. Once you get that uh that player of the year or everything follows from with underneath uh county all county player, all conference, all league. He basically swept the board with every accolade that he can get. Um player of the week also where you got

070a nice little uh gift the other day from News Day and one of the hospital affiliates. So, if we can have 10% of our boys work as hard as Cory Fins, we're going to have a whole lot more banners and a whole lot more championships. So, Mr. Cory Fins, congratulations. [applause] Real quick, also I have to thank Coach Obi. It's never oneperson show. Coach Mike Spicowski. It's never oneperson show. We've all worked together and again all the way down to the legendary coach to Daryl who I played for as a freshman. Excuse me. As a seventh grader, right? >> As a seventh grader. >> Spend more time. >> No, I didn't. But coach Daryl so so important to this program. He just doesn't want to leave. and like we're trying we're we like he has

071comp blanch on however he wants to stay around because he's the he's like the mayor of this this organization. Um and we had a new recruit Casey Ran who did a tremendous tremendous job with those boys down there and looking to take a little bit more of a forward position where coach Teddar can kind of relax a little bit. But assure you, I assure you the Beayshore basketball program is in very, very, very good hands and we hope to see you again in this situation multiple times in the future. So, thank you very much, [applause] >> Chris. Chris, maybe you could just mention about the Long Island Championship, coach versus coach and and that and that because because coach Williams talked about all the students. How about we talk about coach as well? >> So,

072you know, again, what coach brings to this table, right, brings to us. I had to replace a legend with coach Parm, right? guy who brought everything to we needed for Beayshore and he leaves because he retires and he goes to California and there wasn't even a decision in my head like who I was bringing in. I knew I was bringing in coach Williams and he was a little hesitant at first and he was a little concerned but you know we just stayed the course and and then again we come to the Long Island Championship and he's coaching against a kid who he played with Darius Burton who was a great player and himself he wasn't a Gary Williams player in high school [laughter] but he was a great player played for Hostred didn't do what

073Gary Williams did but again and it was it was a personal matchup, but it was a friendly matchup and it was a competitive matchup and I'm glad we came out on top because nobody thought we were coming out on top. Everybody thought we were going to lose to Baldwin and guess what? Here we are today. So, thank you, coach. [applause] Player of the year in high school and Darius was the same year player of the year. That's pretty impressive. >> Oh, that's great. >> Yeah, that's fantastic. And we had another one of our students walking in. Um, everybody please give a a round of applause for King Andrews. [applause] >> Another coach that died would be Mr. Mail. Benny Mail would be very proud. >> Oh man. >> Yes, he would be. >> I can

074hear him now. >> Yep. [laughter] >> Good job. Good job. Proud of you. Absolutely. Absolutely. >> So, thank you again. How about we take a picture [applause] in there too? >> I'm in the front. [laughter] >> Awesome. >> You guys Yeah. Come on. [laughter] >> Make sure you can see her. Guys, don't do You can get >> Oh my god. Oh my god. >> Good. Good. >> Congrats again. >> [applause] >> How many? >> Yeah, we have 10. >> Again, >> that's it. >> They did. That was a great game. That was a great game. >> He was a lost guy further than me. >> He'd come to the line. You challenged everybody. >> Thanks again, guys. Congrats. >> Big coach. >> Right up there in my book. [laughter] >> Going to wait one more

075second. Just let them clear the room. Okay. So, now we're going to move forward with the agenda, folks. Um, with regard to A1, can I get a motion to approve the board and u uh executive work and public session me minutes of March 25 and the executive and work minutes of April 14. Can I get a motion, please? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. B1. That would be Rob. >> On page B1, the board will find a motion to approve the professional staff resignations and retirements as listed. We recommend it approval. >> We get a motion, please. >> Motion second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? B2 up. >> On page B2, the board will find a motion to approve the professional staff request for

076leave as listed. We recommend its approval. >> Can we get a motion, please? Motion >> second. >> Any questions? All in favor? I. >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. B3 row. >> On page B3, the board will find a motion to approve the professional staff appointments as presented. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. B4. On page B4, the board will find a motion to approve the professional staff special appointments as listed. We recommend its approval. Motion >> second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? That motion also carries. B5 and B5A. Rob. >> On page B5 and B5A, the board will find a motion to approve the civil service resignations, retirements, and terminations. We recommend its approval. >>

077Motion. Second. Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. >> Uh B6 and B6A. >> On page B6 and B6A, the board will find a motion to approve the civil service requests for leave as listed. We recommend it approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. B7 and B7A. On page B7 and B7A, the board find a motion to approve the civil service reinstatements as listed. We recommend it approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? That motion also carries. B8 and B8 A through B. >> On page B8 and B8 A through B, the board will find a motion to approve the civil service appointments as listed. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >>

078Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? I. >> Anyone opposed? That motion also carries. B9 and B9A. Rob. >> On page B9 and B9A, the board find a mot to approve the list of substitute appointments for teachers, home tutors, guards, and PM teachers. We recommend it approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? That motion also carries. B10 and B10A. Rob. On page B10 and B10A, the board will find a motion to approve the civil service salary changes as presented. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? That motion carries. B1. Rob. >> On page B1, the board of finding a motion to approve the civil service change in assignment as listed. We recom we recommend

079its approval. Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? I >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. And finally for you, Rob, B12. >> On page B12, the board will find a motion to approve the amendment to the X schedule for the Garden Matter school for the 2526 school year as presented. We recommend it approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries again. Thanks, Rob. Uh C1 and C1 A through H. That would be Moren, please. On pages C1 and C1 A through H, the board will find a motion to accept and place on file the financial and claims auditors report for February of 2026. We recommend its approval. >> Motion second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. C2. Moren, please.

080On page C2, the board will find a motion to adopt a resolution designating the board as lead agency uh pursuant to regulations of the state environmental quality review act uh with respect to SECRA for a type two um determination for the Bay School for the Behore High School Auditorium HVAC project. It's replacing the chiller up on the roof. We recommend its approval. >> Easy for you to say. Can we have a motion, please? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? I. Anyone opposed? The motion carries. Uh C3 and C3 A through S. Moren. On pages C3 and C3 A throughs, the board will find a motion to accept, approve, and present to the voters an expenditure budget in the amount of $211,651,256 for the operation of the B of the Beayhore Union

081Free School District for the fiscal year 2026 2027. We recommend its approval. >> That's a motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? And for the community, this is something we've been working on since January, all the budget sessions. >> Uh, can we have a motion, please? >> All set. My bad. >> All in favor? >> I I >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. Thanks. Sorry about that. C4, C4 A through C. Morning. On pages [clears throat] C4 and C4 A through C, the board will find a motion to adopt the proposed 20262027 property tax report card uh that goes along with the adoption of the budget and to distribute said report card as required by law. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? The motion

082carries. C5. Moren. On page C5, the board will find a motion to approve the classroom use agreement between the beayore UFSD and Boseies for the period June 29th through August 21st for purposes of the uh summer enrichment program. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? The motion carries. And finally for you, Moren C6 C6A. And on pages C6 and C6A, the board will find a motion to approve the budget transfer listed on page C6A. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. Again, thanks Moren. Uh D1, that would be Laquita, please. On page D1, the board will find a motion to endorse actions taken by the Beayshore Committee on Special Education pertaining

083to services for students as noted in the CSC minutes listed as well as the annual reviews for the 2526 school year and referrals for March and April of 2026. We recommend its approval. >> Motion second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. Uh D2. >> On page D2, the board will find a motion to approve the list of parent members for the Beayore Committee on Special Education effective immediately through August 31st of 2026. We recommend its approval. >> Just on the written version that says 25, we correct that. Uh can we get a motion, please? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. D3 liquid. >> On page D3, the board find a motion to endorse actions taken by the Basher Committee on

084Preschool special education for services related for preschool students in the minutes listed. We recommend its approval. >> Motion second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? Motion carries. And finally for you, Lquita D4. On page D4, the board will find a motion to adopt the individual home instruction plans for the 2526 school year as listed. We recommend its approval. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone oppose? Motion carries. Thanks again. Lquita E1. That would be Steve, please. On page E1, the board find a motion to submit the Vure Board of Education collective vote for the Eastern Suffach Bosey's budget vote and election for the 202627 school year. We recommend it approval. >> That's a motion. >> Second. >> Okay. Uh just for the community's benefit,

085there are five people on the ballot. They are all running on opposed. So, we're going to vote in favor of the uh entire ballot >> and then also um the um uh budget itself we're also voting on. >> Right. >> All in favor? I I >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. And finally for you, Steve, E2. >> On page E2, the board find a motion to approve and authorize the board of president or vice president to execute the settlement agreement release as presented. We recommend it approval. [snorts] >> We get a motion, please. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. Okay. Thank you. Um, okay. So, this is the opportunity for the community to speak up with regard to anything that they wanted to um bring

086to the board's attention. We do have a sign-in book and I see apparently some people have signed in. Um we're going to ask you to try to just limit your qu your uh comments and questions uh to a reasonable period of time. We call it three minutes, but we'll be reasonable with you if you're reasonable with us. Uh so, um we'll go through the names that are here first, but then after that, even if someone else wanted to speak, we would also allow that. Okay. So, um, is it Robert Hammond? [clears throat] Is it Robert Hammond? >> May have been one of the >> Simon. >> Okay. Uh, Cynthia Simon. [clears throat] >> Is it Cynthia? >> Yeah. Okay. Sure. Um, so come up to the mic if you would. >> He can do it.

087You he can take your place. No problem. You can go together if you want company with each other. That's all good, too. I think that would be better, right? >> Okay. [laughter] >> We're a community. We support each other. So, it's support each other for sure. >> Thank you so much for the opportunity. Uh I wanted to bring up couple of items uh for your attention. Uh one of the item is that New York City has uh approved for Muslim Eid holidays. It's been over six years and also surrounding school districts are also closed during the Muslim holidays. Not holidays exactly, it's celebratory days uh which are two EDS during the uh fiscal year. So if you guys could consider that we'll appreciate it. There are lots of Muslim uh uh students and uh it's

088not only about religion, it's about uh community. Uh if the students are going to school, they're missing out the family gathering and lots of other stuff. also wanted to bring up and uh to your attention is the quality of the foods that are served in the school district. If you guys could take a look at it and if there is any improvement you guys could do that would be appreciated. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Thanks for the comments. >> Uh Rahina Katchchum. Did I get close on that? Well, maybe they're not here anyway, so they didn't hear me butcher their name. >> Um, >> I'm sorry, >> she's not speaking. She just signed it. >> Oh, you just signed in. Yeah. Some Sometimes people sign in in the back thinking that you have to. You

089don't have to sign in. This book really is just if you want to speak, but if you have, just tell us and we'll move right forward. Thank you. Did I butcher your name really badly? I'm sorry. [laughter] >> I did. Huh? Um, >> it's Islam, but I don't have the first name. >> Just signed in. Okay, no problem. >> Uh, Onyx Khan. >> Hi, how are you? >> I'm doing good. >> Good. You want to speak? >> Yes, please. >> Okay, please. >> Hello, my name is Onyx Khan. I'm currently a junior in Bashar High School who's currently an IB diploma candidate. Today I'll explain the reasons why Bashar High School should establish Eid as an official holiday for its students. Eid represents one of the most significant Islamic holidays. The holiday includes activities of

090prayer and showing thanks while people connect with their family and their communities. The celebration which marks the holiday holds critical importance for Muslim students because it functions as their religious duty. We begin our day within prayer which occurs before dawn and we spend the remaining time with our family members and close friends. The practice serves as fundamental requirement for our faith which we must observe. The lunar calendar system creates a challenge determining Eid dates because it results in different dates from one year to the next. The holiday can potentially occur during school time without any prior notice. Muslim students must miss school during these times because they need to complete their religious obligations. The typical outcome includes students need to skip essentials class materials which includes tests and lessons because they can't replace missing work.

091The number of Muslims that practice the faith has increased year each year which includes Muslims who live near our school. The growing number of Muslim students creates an urgent need for institutions to provide them with recognition and support. The student body includes a significant population which requires proper treatment in terms of acceptance and recognition. The schools located near Beashore has established various ways to recognize Eid. The existence of this p practice in nearby schools demonstrates that our request can be executed successfully. Basher High School operates as a multicultural community which should be observed Eid because it enables them to deter demonstrate their special historical identity. The holiday observes would be enable Muslims students to experience equal treatment with all our with all other students because their religion believes receive respect from other schools. Thank you

092for your time. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Could I could I ask you a question? >> Yeah, of course. >> Tell me your name again. I missed it when you said it. >> Onyx Khan. >> Onx. Uh >> the the holiday is two days. >> Yes, two days. It's determined, I understand, it's determined by the lunar calendar >> and it's determined by a a council >> and I don't want to butcher the name, but >> uh >> of of North America >> how early is it determined? It's two approximately one of those two days. Um so for the first important Eid, it depends on the when they see the moon sighting in um Saudi Arabia and then that's when we get info for the day of Eid and it's usually after Ramadan the 30

093days we fast. >> Right. So it's it you can follow when the moon is so you know ahead of time. It changes each year. I understand it changes each year but you know ahead of time. >> I see you shaking your head. Yes. Yes. In the background. >> It's like we can determine at the start of the year before the established for the next year. Yes. Provide the dates because we follow the calendar of owner signing. So we can provide it beforehand. Not we not going to pay >> one of the the obvious problems. We we set a calendar early in the year. A a lot of holidays change. They're not on the exact same day all the time. That's not something that can't be dealt with. >> No, we can provide an exact date

094before you start >> before you set the calendar. you know, try try to do it like, you know, each year like because we do we start working on a calendar all the time. So I I remember when we when I was sitting as president, we went down and we talked to the kids in the middle school and they they came and they talked and they were right Steve. It was the middle school pride and we came in and we talked to them and we we told them we'd look at this and we were trying to look at it. We're trying to do everything and you know it always works. I don't know if we can get two days, but we we've got to really try to get one. If if we can, we can we

095do we do what we can to work with each other. >> Is there one that's is there one that and maybe using improper terminology here and I don't want to slight one day, but is there one day that is more important than the other? >> No. Is it depend on this moon sighting that which day we are going to pick? So in scientifically they uh determined the day before moon side like months ago they can do it. So we follow that calendar that comes at the start of the year. So it doesn't matter when Ramadan will come. We know what day Eid will fall. So we will have only one day that we will celebrate. So we can provide the school district exact date what we want our Eve on. So you we can have

096>> right I mean we'll try to work with it. Right. I mean, >> so so the the the ever problem that we have is trying to fit in the state mandatory requirements and getting them into the calendar. The other concern of course would be that if you had to eat um as a holiday this year and then next year because the calendar was so congested that we couldn't do it, that would in many ways show some disrespect and that would not be our intention. So I don't know if it's better if you once in a while get it and then on certain years you don't get it or not. And I'm just speaking out loud, right? That so that is the concern. Like next year I'm not sure. What grade are you in? >> I'm

097in 11. >> Okay. So you're gonna be here next year. Yeah. So next year you're going to be starting before before Labor Day. You know, kids that that's kind of unusual. I've been on the board 25 years. That's unusual. So we're always having problems squeezing in days um into the school calendar. So we hear you. We understand you. But and but we would not want to disrespect you by saying this year you can have it because there's enough room in the calendar but next year you can't because it's not in the calendar. So we're trying to find that happy medium and we'll be discussing it. >> Thank you all for your comments. >> I wanted to add to your question is that if we just follow New York City closing days for the Eid that

098would be sufficient. They do announce l earlier and as she mentioned that beginning of the lunar calendar it has decided that which day would be it approximately >> but if you do follow New York City closing days uh you would know a lot more in advance >> here you go watch here's what I'm asking we need your help >> right so we need your help we want we want to work together right so if you can kind of help us kind of then we can plan together >> be on I think it will work. You know, I just we just got to work together, right? >> So, >> we don't ask for help much. Well, we should ask for more. No, we're asking for your help. Try to help us supply those days. >> Right.

099Just in terms of districts that I know you referenced that are recognizing the holidays. Everybody's calendar is a little bit different. >> And in terms of contractual number of days, some school districts have 184 days, 186 days. In Beijare, it's 182. So, as Mr. Curi was saying and we're starting next year before Labor Day and I've been here 32 years. That's the first time ever. We've started prior to Labor Day trying to get the 180 days that were required for instruction plus the two conference days that we have to get in. Plus we also have an hourly requirement 990 hours for the secondary level, 900 hours for elementary level. So trying to you know accomplish that as well as we develop our calendar each year. >> Appreciate it. duly noted also if you guys look

100at the data of uh student Muslim students during the e holidays I would assume over 75 to 80% or maybe 90% student doesn't show up uh to school they're absent on those days and I have two kids uh one in middle school and high school u some of those days they have exam and they have to get uh you know >> they >> excused >> they have Uh so if you look at the attendance of those Muslim kids and uh you would see a good uh scenario that it is uh something that you guys could do easily based on calendar days that we must be open >> even for us to I work in south country I work with the special kids I have to take my personal day on those two days which I'm

101not supposed to take So if you can consider that one too like we have lot of parents that are Muslim so we have to take our personal days. Some parents they don't even have their days they cannot even take those days. >> Okay. Thank you for bringing this all you know to the forefront. We do appreciate it and we're going to certainly be discussing it amongst ourselves. All right. >> Thinking of sending you an email. I do get read all of your emails by the way. uh being here and representing this. It's much better and all of you guys are here together. So if you guys consider it, let us know. >> Appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> And we love having people in our audience. So we welcome your comments. >> Great. Thank you

102for coming. >> Um thank you. Does anyone else have any other comments or questions uh that they want to bring to our attention uh even on different topics? >> I think the Do you guys want to hear? >> Sure. >> Oh, I'm so I'm sorry. Did >> Yeah, of course. >> Did you Did you sign in and I missed you? >> No, I didn't. >> Okay. Well, then I didn't miss you, but you're still welcome to >> I thought it was like motion to >> No, [laughter] you're certainly welcome. >> Wait, how do I address you? >> Sorry. >> How do I address you guys? Like, chair >> chairs. >> I'm Andy. You can call me Andy. How's that? Oh guys, the year is like 2026 and the district has been established for more than

103a century and you know we've had like changing demographics and we've already recognized Lunar New Year, Quanza, Junth, those weren't always on our schedule but you know like all they said we still don't have Eid recognized and they already introduced the holiday to you but you know it's essentially like Christmas for us and despite our increasing Muslim population it's still not being recognized. Anyways, be sure like prides itself on its diversity, but like what good is that if we're not accommodating for our students diverse needs, such as closing school on a holiday, you know? Anyway, simply acknowledging the holiday and exempting us from class is only putting like a band-aid on this really significant issue. I don't know if any of you ever had to take AP Chem, but like missing two periods of that,

104it's really hard, especially even when you're exempt, it doesn't make a big difference. So, we've heard a lot of counter arguments like everything you guys discussed, your concerns, but if we just follow all the like models from these neighboring school districts like Brentwood, connect, and even the city, you guys really have the framework laid out for you. It's just get in contact with those neighboring districts and take their existing schedules they're planning and follow that. I really just encourage you guys to reach out to all those neighboring you know establishments and see what they're doing so you can apply it here. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. [applause] >> Mr. Curry, can I just can I just >> So, we have an ISO town school board meetings and I'm the president of ISO town

105school boards of all of them. So, Monday I will bring this subject up and I will try to follow up on that. >> Do I have >> Rob? >> Yeah. I just want to I thank the the student. Can you just tell us your name? I didn't >> And what grade? Excellent job. Thank you for coming in presenting. I appreciate some of the information that you're sharing. I just want to point out to the community and something that because this came up uh in the past the the other holidays that you mentioned are state required holidays. So in th in those scenarios we are required to be closed for those holidays. So that's one of the challenges. The other ones as Dr. Maloney mentioned is that the different school districts as was mentioned they have

106different requirements. So, they have more flexibility in their calendar than we do, but each year it's a little bit tricky. But I I really appreciate you coming to us and again, I think that will be very helpful for us moving forward because as you're a sophomore, you'll be able to share more information with us each year about the holiday. So, thank you very much. >> Thanks, Rob. >> All right. Thank you all again for coming. Um, again, I just want to ask for anyone else in the room or or you folks, does anyone else have any questions or comments about anything else going on in the school district? Yes. >> Hi, my name is Andrea Gadiri. Parents, >> you want to come up to the mic? >> Sure. Sure. [clears throat] My kids are in

10710th and 12th, and I know they're almost out of the school, but I feel like what better legacy could one family leave to another than to try to push this agenda through for all of the future Muslim students so they feel included, they they're seen, they're heard. Um, when I reached out to the board of education just before spring break, I got a very warming phone call from Dr. outlaw letting us know that this was under consideration. Uh so what I would like to ask you is what exactly would you need from us as the parents in the community? What kind of information uh can we bring to you? Uh there is an Eid Coalition of Long Island. Would it be helpful if you were in contact with them? I'm willing to help and put

108in the elbow grease and make the phone calls and the emails as are a lot of the other parents to do whatever we can to see this become a reality. It's really really important to our kids. Super important. >> Well, thank you for that. I think we're going to take into account everything that was said both pro and and and and the cons in terms of the constraints that we have. Um but we're definitely going to discuss it and we will um next time. >> Okay. But our calendar is made for next year. I just want to point that out also. Yeah, >> Dr. Outlaw will let us know about that already. >> I just wanted to point that out because if you see something that the calendar came out and you said, "Oh, they

109ignored us again." It's already done for next year. So, you know, >> what would be a reasonable expectation for us in terms of where this issue is going? >> So, how do we know it's being worked on? >> We do the calendar in roughly January. I think it is January. It's usually in January that was establishing it for the next year but we will discuss it in advance of that right because when we come up with the calendar we look at it and then we try to refine it and things of that sort. So this will be part of the discussion no question. >> Okay. So then what happens next? Um this is discussed amongst yourselves. Is there another like governing body you bring this issue to? I'm just curious like >> the administration. >>

110I'm not really familiar. the administration and school board is it you're looking at the people that are looking at the great >> unless you want to go above our heads and talk to the governor. >> We're not great. >> Why not, right? Let's get it onto legislation. >> Listen, you are very well spoken, especially these kids. So, you could probably be a great idea would be to write something to the >> government. You have to understand in many ways what happens is the state government then um puts us in a position where they say this holiday you must close for but not this one. And then they make it as seem as though we're picking and choosing and we're not. >> So, so you have to understand that what Dr. Maloney just said is exactly

111right. If the governor said it must be a holiday, that would make the path a lot easier for all of us. >> Okay. >> It just the the other concern that I that I just want to point out is we're starting before Labor Day. You know, I right now it doesn't feel like so much pain to some people. Uh there are people who are sitting at home right now that might be hearing that for the first time. And I'm sure there are going to be people that are hearing it for the first time come August when they're coming back before Labor Day. So, um, you know, it's it's unusual for that to happen and we're doing the best that we can with regard to it. >> Okay. And we have to start somewhere, right? I

112mean, uh, there's no progress if someone doesn't bring something up. >> No question. >> And if I could just have 30 more seconds. Uh, one of you >> take 35. >> I think asked a question. I'm not sure if you received an answer about if one of the Eids are more important than the other. Was >> Was that you? >> Uh, in my opinion, and I and I think that most families will agree, they're both equally important. >> One isn't lesser than the other. You hear a lot of talk about the Eid that follows the conclusion of Ramadan because it's the month of Ramadan is such an epic and transformative experience for these kids. These high school kids, these middle school kids are fasting. They're getting through this. And then the biggest bummer on earth

113is the last night of Ramadan, we break the last fast, and they're like, I got to go home and study. I know I'm exempt tomorrow, but it kind of takes away from the um the specialness just like kids when they celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah or Diwali, you know, there's a there's a special feeling when you're recognized. So, um, both are equally equally important for different reasons and, um, I appreciate any consideration that the board of education gives us. And Dr. Outlaw, you know how to reach me. If there's anything I can do, bring you any information, any statistics, any data, I'm your girl. I'll do it. >> I'm going to tell you that. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> As far as uh, in case you're trying to shut me up, I'm going to tell

114you anyway. The uh, what you're talking about, you say there's a Long Island coalition. All right. So that's a good thing. What you're doing here tonight is is a good step. This seems like to me and I'm just talking for myself that it's a doable thing. You're talking about two days. >> We are we do deal with constraints like Mr. Pashkin saying and they're constraints that come down from the state. So the idea that there's a Long Island coalition, it would be good for those who participate in that coalition to do exactly what you're doing in every school district on Long Island and get this message to the state that this is something that needs to be dealt with >> because they could close the schools. >> They are working on it. They're an amazing

115organization. >> I got very successful. It's just part it's just part of uh >> what needs to be done from my point of view that you have to do. That doesn't mean we can't deal with it sooner, >> but I'm just giving you a long term. >> Okay. Well, that's that's good to know >> the politics of it. >> Okay. All right. Understood. >> Thank you for your time. Appreciate it. Thank you. >> No, it's great. I appreciate you all coming. Thank you. Thank you. >> Thank you. Okay. Um and then can we have a motion to adjurnn? Motion. >> Second. Did you want to do you have your fing hang on? I'm sorry. >> As far as being of high school, >> I think it's important for the students to lead conversations like this.

116I graduated class of 2015. I went to school and that would not have been possible without this foundation here. So the foundation here are supporting students in bringing concern to board of education or bringing their concern to the state even that's where it starts with the students and I appreciate seeing parents here my mom was very involved herself the parents all back in the day I'm glad to see more parents are involved in the lives of their students there's a reason for the church and state conversation it's been going on for a really really long time I'm sure you know if we're going to college, this would be a great this would be a great place to continue the conversation and aim it at the state. It's it's really tough to talk at the board

117level. It's really tough and I hear the stress points here. If the audience is the state that we go to New York State is a great state that's helpful, but again, as you're here, it's important and it's ongoing conversation. >> Thank you. >> Very well said. >> He wants to speak over here, Andy, real fast. >> All right. >> He had something written. So, [clears throat] >> good evening, Mr. Superintendent and members of the board of education. My name is Muhammad Shahid and I am in fifth grade student in at Gardener Manor School. Thank you for giving me a chance to speak today. This year on March 19th of E of Eve of Eid, children had to miss their middle school steam night. It was very important school event, but also in very very important

118religious time for our families. We were forced to choose between our school community and our faith. No student should have to make that choice. Thank you for listening to me and for considering this important change. >> Thank you. Good job. >> Appreciate. Thank you. >> [applause] >> You're only in fifth grade. >> You're in fifth grade. >> You go off a wrestling team. I think you should probably [laughter] [clears throat] [laughter] >> one more. >> Okay, young lady. >> Yes. Come on. [snorts] >> See, we're not so scary, right? [laughter] You can talk to us. >> Good evening. Um, I just wanted to add on even if we aren't able to get the days off next year, I would the students would very much appreciate if there was like any important events during that week

119to like be pushed back or like pushed forward maybe. So, as he said, they had to miss their steam night. That is very important. And me, I volunteered there the whole entire day. So, I was also there. So, I would very much appreciate if we were able to like push the forward move the events forward. events. Move the events out of the way so make it clear for you to celebrate your day. >> Yes. >> Thank you so much. >> Great point. Thank you. [applause] >> All right. One more time. I'm going to try it. Can we have a [laughter] >> This is This is very helpful though. I do appreciate it. Can we have a motion to adjurnn? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? Motion carries. Thank

120you folks. Have a great evening.