001Good evening all. Welcome to the board of education regular business meeting. Today is October 20th, 2025. Can I please have a motion to open the meeting? First by Jenna, second by Kelly. All in favor? That is everyone. It is upon recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education enter into executive session to discuss specific legal collective bargaining personnel and other matters in accordance with the open meetings law. Can I have a motion to enter into executive session? Teresa one, John two. All in favor? That's everyone. and we will return at 7:30. Welcome back. Can I please have a motion to exit the executive session and re-enter the public meeting? Any one? Teresa, two. All in favor? That is everyone. Let's all please rise for the pledge of allegiance. >> I pledge allegiance
002to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. In case of an emergency, please direct yourselves to the illuminated exit signs. There's four of them. And this is a smoke-free building. Smoking or vaping is not permitted. All right, we're going to jump right into our approvals for today. First one is the board of education meeting minutes of September 30th, 2025. It is upon recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education approve minutes from the meeting of the Huntington Union Free School District Board of Education dated September 30th, 2025. Can I have a motion, please? Kelly 1, Jenna 2. All in favor? That's everyone. We have a few FYIs. Uh, two, three, four, and five.
003Any questions or comments? We'll move on to warrants. My warrants aren't opening. I'm stuck on my Here it comes. It is my recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education approved the attached warrants which were certified for payment on October 8th, 2025. Can I have a motion, please? Annie one, Teresa 2. All in favor? That is everyone. All right, we are moving right along today onto board of education communication. Um, I'll start off with some communications that I have. This coming Sunday, I believe that the New York State Field Band Championship competition is going to be seeing our Huntington Blue Devils. Hopefully bring home that um that trophy, that elusive one. They look very well prepared. They are highly regarded. I can't wait to see how they perform up there. Uh we
004had an incredible turnout for our first game under the lights. Uh and quite honestly, I think it's uh thanks to just some great planning, fiscal planning. Um our facilities are improving without straining taxpayers. Uh we're looking forward to the new auditorium improvements and the fieldhouse restroom, so it should be happening within the next couple years. Uh the girls tennis, the boys soccer, the boys golf teams have all qualified for county team playoffs. Congratulations to you guys. And it looks like the football team, the field hockey will hopefully qualify for counties this week. Huntington athletes from the girls tennis, girls swimming, girls cross country, gymnastics, boys golf, and boys cross country teams will all be advancing to the county individual state qualifying tournaments. Uh just wonderful performances. Congratulations. And now we open [Applause] Now I hand
005over the mic to Emily Herrera. >> Good evening board and community members. Huntington High School has been actively spreading awareness on important issues such as pediatric and breast cancer. On September 30th, students and staff members wore gold and yellow to raise awareness of children battling cancer in honor of Rachel, daughter of Miss Antino, a beloved English teacher in the high school. For the month of October, the high school is committed to wearing pink on Wednesdays to foster awareness for breast cancer. The girls varsity volleyball team played a very intense and exciting game against North Avalon while also raising up to $438 as a donation to the Icelip Breast Cancer Coalition. Key Club hosted its annual blood drive on October 10th from periods 1 through 7. 55 people, including students and teachers, donated to the New
006York Blood Center organization. In total, the high school collected enough donations to save 165 lives, demonstrating the signi the significance of this event. Therefore, I would like to thank everyone who participated in these past initiatives. Your selflessness and care for people speaks volumes and reflects the values we proudly hold in our district. We have also celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th. Several Spanish classes in the world language department gave students the opportunity to research an influential Hispanic figure in history. They learn they learned about the accomplishments and journey these figures endured and highlighted the inspiring stories they held. United Amigos represented our school to the town of Huntington last Wednesday by performing an assortment of dances including kumbia, bachata, ponta, merena and more. These activities not only help our understanding of
007Hispanic heritage, but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures our community holds. Huntington High School's Natural Helpers program has begun its annual recruitment process by sending out a survey to all students in the school. Students are asked to select a few of their peers who they see as trustworthy and supportive individuals to everyone in the community. The natural helpers program is meant to teach students how to navigate problems regarding their peers and be someone who can intervene effectively in difficult situations. This program is run by Mr. Gilmore as the adviser and Carly Gallagher, Katie Kokman, and Cecilina M as co-presidents. Natural Helpers create emotional intelligence in our students and promotes a positive and caring environment in our school. The drama club has already commenced their preparations for their fall production, Lost Girl, written
008by Kimberly Bellflower. Members are hard at work attending daily rehearsals after school. The performance will be held on Friday, November 1st at 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, November 2nd at 2 p.m. as well as 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend and are encouraged to support the drama club. Tickets will be available at the door. Additionally, the high school held a college fair with over 50 schools for juniors and seniors. Around 300 students were able to attend and get to learn about several institutes while also speaking directly with admission counselors from each school. This event helps students tackle the jour the college journey and begin thinking about what school best suit their interests and future goals. And lastly, quarterlies are just around the corner beginning tomorrow. Soldier studies quarterly exams are intended to take place
009tomorrow, the 21st. English exams on the 22nd, math quarterly on the 23rd. However, I suggest students to confirm their exam dates with their teachers. Students will be able to make up any exam on Friday the 24th. Good luck to everyone testing this week. And that is all. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you, Emily. And now, uh, fellow board members. >> Um, I have a couple things. I wanted to just debrief the board on the New York State School Board Association's annual business meeting, which I attended last week. Um, and just also thank you again for allowing me to represent our board. Um it's really uh exciting to be part of the advocac advocacy work that the Nassau SuffK school boards do and the New York State School Board Association does. Um over 350
010delegates attended that virtual meeting. It was quite lengthy but um very worthwhile. I think it's very important especially in today's day and age to listen to differing opinions and u be able to reach a consensus. So um over 37 proposals which were submitted by school boards across the state were considered and debated at length and um 24 of those were adopted. So um it went really according to what we had all kind of assumed would happen. There weren't really any big surprises there. Um but again thank you for allowing me to represent. Um there are some exciting advocacy things coming up which I'll talk about later. that there's an exciting joint conference in January that I think some of us might want to attend together that looks to um partner business um and career and
011technical education um with school districts. So, I'm looking forward to that. Um two things I'd love to mention. Um, as you mentioned, the marching band is headed up to Syracuse um this weekend and um if you haven't already, they are actually also the band parent association which is an amazing organization to support our students is uh looking for sponsorships for uh our Disney trip which will be in February. And you know, taking a look at what they're going to be doing in February, it's not just about having three days in Disney. is actually representing our district um sort of on a global scale and they will be attending workshops and um it will be also educational. So if you're willing to donate money uh to help offset the cost for those who can't afford it,
012please uh see a band parent or a band member. Um and one other um mention is that the PTA is having a fundraiser this Thursday. Um, so if you uh haven't already joined your PTA, um, I suggest you head out, um, speak to the the PTA board and attend the Furdraiser on Thursday. Um, I believe there are a couple of members in the audience that could give you more details. Thank you. >> Anyone else? Beth, it's all yours. >> Good evening, everyone. I just want to add some reminders. Marking period one is coming to a close. Uh so please make sure we are our attendance is great and keep checking e school to see if there are any missing assignments or things that we need to catch up on prior to the end of the
013of the first marking quarter. Parent teacher conferences are also coming up soon. I know that the notifications went out from middle school and high school today and it was right on time for when AWS was down so that those platforms were not working. Uh they should be hopefully working by tomorrow, but I know that the messages may have gone out around four o'clock and people were trying to log in. So, we will send out a new notification as soon as that is up and running again. Um Huntington High School's open house is coming up where we've invited realtors and parents. All are welcome on November 6th at 11:00 a.m. Invitations have gone out to families in grades 7 through 10 who attend schools outside our region and real estate agents from local areas. There's a
014brief presentation, a building tour, um, and students will be able to speak to to their peers about their experiences at our amazing high school. On October 15th, as Miss Herrera mentioned, uh, the town of Huntington had their 31st annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Our United Amigos performed a wonderful dance. And I also wanted to mention three of our dual language students who are now at Finley read poems. Lucas Kobe read the poem Bilingual by Elma Flora in English, followed by Gabriella Zalinsky reading the same poem in Spanish and Samantha Greyber concluded with the poem Latinos amigos deto partes by Isabelle Campo. All did a wonderful job representing our school district. Dr. Wat also shared some updates in the area of fine and performing arts. Our elementary and intermediate students have been exploring color theory and elements.
015Our broadcasting students are doing daily announcements and they did a special on homecoming which was wonderful. Our high school uh is prepping for the Finley Road Show on October 24th and we're also looking to include some half-year offerings at the high school along with unified sections in the future. Dr. Wadawa, his staff, and Mr. Cusack are working on that. Uh in the area of music, we have our rehearsals at the intermediate buildings which began in our early morning uh with minimal bus concerns. Thank you to Mr. Hender and Mr. WAWA for being in front of that. Um, I would love to wish our marching band best of luck at Syracuse this weekend. We know you're going to do a phenomenal job. And I believe there is our evening uh showcase on Thursday at 7:30 outside
016at Huntington High School. So, we're looking forward to that as well. Um, and I did want to also mention our fall drama production which is coming up in November. Uh, but it's not too early to save the date. In the area of athletics, uh, signups for winter season one have started at Finley. So, if any children are interested in a winter sport, please make sure you sign up. We have two boys basketball and two girls volleyball teams available. Um, and it begins in mid January. Um, it'll also feature wrestling and boys volleyball teams, I think. Yes. Signups for winter season at the high school opened on final forms this past Saturday, and we will have 14 varsity and JV teams this winter. So, if you haven't figured out what you're interested in, why don't you
017look at our list and sign up for something? Uh, our combined girls swimming and diving team is currently ranked number two in the county. Our 11 swimmers are all underassmen, so we expect to have a really strong team moving forward as well. Um, from four of our girls tennis players placed in the top six of the division championships and qualified for the county tournament. Congratulations to Mia Calfman, Amanda Ganley, Isabella Palasios, and Tina Puchio. Huntington also qualified for the county team tournament where we defeated Seville in the opening match. Uh Huntington High School's varsity club members Cameron Smith, Ava McDonald, Jolie Winrider, and Kamura Dervilis are members of the section 11 student athletic advisory committee and they participated in a virtual meeting this past Friday afternoon focused on improving the student athlete experience in Suffach
018High School sports. So, it's wonderful to have representation from our district on such an important committee in Suffach County. And News2 contacted us late Friday night to announce that Huntington High School senior Jolie Weiner has been named the next winner of the News12 Scholar Athlete Award. Congratulations. News12 will be coming to the high school on Thursday to tape a feature story on Jolie and to present her with a $1,000 college scholarship. She's a three sport Yes. Yes. Congrats again. She is a three sport star soccer, basketball, and lacrosse player and will be attending Ruckers University on a lacrosse scholarship and her academic grade average exceeds 103. So, we want to just mention that. Allaround wonderful student Jolie Weiner. Congratulations. And and I'm sorry to end on a more bleak note, but I do want to
019provide a financial update um about the future of funding. Um and although nothing is official at this time, there is growing concern about the potential federal cuts to Medicaid. And many of you may think, well, what does that have to do with education? um if they are to happen in the way that they are being described, then there may be a potential bailout from the states to fill the gaps that are missing for Medicaid. If that is the case, the impact on funding could be great as there is only so much money to go around. If money is taken from somewhere to fill the gaps, it is likely to come from education. Additionally, we have been hearing more and more that title funding may take a hit as well. To give you some raw numbers,
020we receive around $1 million in title funds, which covers titles 1 through 4. If this funding is cut by the Department of Education, then we will need to cover those costs within the general fund budget. I just want to share that this is what we're hearing at this time. There is nothing confirmed. But as we start to plan our budget, which those meetings are starting in the coming weeks, these are all the things that we need to take into consideration as we plan a budget without having all of the financial um exact numbers that we would like to have. So, I did just want to share that. Um and I'm sorry to end on that note, but we do have more positive things to come shortly. >> Thank you, Beth. Right. At this time, we
021open up our meeting for public commentary. Public commentary is open to residents and employees of the Huntington District. Speakers are limited to three non-transferable minutes per person. There will be a maximum of 30 minutes total for all comments. We will open it up again for a second public commentary towards the end of this meeting. Priority will be given to comments related to today's regular business uh meeting titled items for discussion and action. Public commentary is a time dedicated to sharing your thoughts with the board and your input is valued. It is meant for expression rather than dialogue. So, please understand that direct discussions with board members or administration will not be part of today's public commentary. When you approach the podium, please identify your affiliation to the district, whether you're a resident or an employee
022of the district. Use the form at the podium to sign in. Please refrain from naming any students or employees of the district. And you're not allowed to talk about the Giants. Just kidding about that. It's open for public commentary. All right. And as I said, it opens up again later on. We'll move on for items for discussion in action. So, this was the positive part I was talking about before. Uh, as we gather tonight, I would like to take a moment to recognize and honor an exceptional group of individuals, the members of our board of education. This week marks board of education appreciation week or month as we celebrate and it's a fitting time to publicly express our deepest gratitude for the incredible service and commitment each of our board members brings to our district.
023Serving on a board of education is no small task. It is a role filled with responsibility, complexity, and too often little recognition. Board members are tasked with making critical decisions that shape the educational experiences of every student in our schools. From approving budgets and policies to hiring superintendent and setting district goals, your responsibilities are both far-reaching and deeply impactful. The work you do directly influences the quality of education, the well-being of our staff, and the future of our community. What makes this service even more remarkable is that it is all done entirely on a volunteer basis. You give your time freely, often sacrificing evenings, weekends, and time with family to ensure all students have access to the best possible education. You navigate challenging issues, make difficult decisions, and do so without seeking praise or recognition.
024It is in many ways a thankless role, but tonight we say thank you. Thank you for your unwavering dedication. Thank you for your courage and leadership. Thank you for your steadfast advocacy for our students, staff, and our schools. Thank you for being allin. Your service matters deeply. It is the backbone of a healthy and vibrant school system. You bring diverse perspectives, thoughtful leadership, and a shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. On behalf of the entire district, our students, staff, families, and myself, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you. Your efforts do not go unnoticed and the value you bring to our schools is immeasurable. Please join me in recognizing our board of education for their extraordinary commitment to public education and to the future of our
025community. And now I would like to introduce our director of fine and performing arts, Dr. Rob Wawa, who will introduce the performers and students to continue our celebration of the Huntington Board of Education. >> Thank you very much and welcome everyone. We are very excited tonight to have some of our amazing floutists from our middle school. So we have them performing under the sea under the direction of Mr. Batista. We have Naomi Holder, Annie Donovan, Molly Barbara, and Jade Ingram. Please give them a round of applause as they get set. [Music] Hey. Hey. Hey. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Goodbye. [Music] Christmas. Heat. Heat. [Music] Okay. [Music] [Applause] That was great. So that takes a lot of bravery. So let's put our hands together for our amazing middle schoolers. We can't do anything without the support
026of the board of education and district office as well as our parents. So I want to take a moment and thank our board of education for all of their support of the arts across our district. And in that doing so with every October around we celebrate the recognition of the board of education. And in my previous district we did the same thing that the art department had an opportunity to share some wonderful things. This year our high school department was um very very cognizant of what they wanted to share with you. So that you know oftentimes we think of giving a gift and we're like are they actually going to use it? Right? So, we really gave it some thought and the teachers put together uh thank you cards that you can use with artwork
027from all of the students across the district. And they said that if there's any of them that resonate with you and any of the pictures that you're like, "Yes, I want one of a copy of one of those." They'll gladly enlarge it and frame it for you. They just didn't want to do that with the anticipation of you saying, "Okay, I have to hang this thing now." Right? So, if you find anything that you really, really love, by all means, let us know. and we really really appreciate you and all the support that you provide us and our department. So, thank you. In addition to that, we we believe that we are a full team as as an art organization and as an art department. So, our students in the broadcasting, myself and Miss Tempino,
028met and we decided that we wanted to have a video that was created of a montage of all the things that our district does from elementary school all the way through the high school cuz oftent times the elementary teachers and students are forgotten about because we always see the great artwork of our of our upper level students and that's the foundation. That's where things start. And without the support of our board supporting the very beginnings of our art students, we can't have the things that are at our high school. So, I'm going to stop talking and let the video do the talking. So, thank you so very much. [Music] I'd like to just say to the board, thank you so much for all your support. >> Thank you to the board. Um, anybody that supports
029the arts. >> I want to thank the board for everything that they do every day and all year long. >> Thank you so much for being our board and supporting us. So, thank you to the school board for providing our students with um amazing space and materials. >> I would like to thank the board for all their hard work that they've done to um keep Huntington a great place. Art means the world, creativity, emotion, it's a form of life. >> Art means a lot. It's it's everywhere you go. Uh anywhere you go, you see art. It's a perfect way to uh express ourselves. >> We are special because we encompass all the subjects, not just the creative aspects. Art means um using your talents and creativity to express yourself. Um art is where creativity finds
030its voice. >> Is it about inspiring every student no matter what their capabilities and finding that creativity within them and letting them know that they can be the best that they can and achieve things that they never thought they could. The thing that inspires me to teach every day is the students and watching them grow as artists and as people. It's not just about me teaching students art, but it's really about me connecting with the students. I want my classroom to be a comfortable space for them where they forget all their worries at the door. They come in and they're here to have a good time. I think the things that inspire me each day are kind of I just look at the world around me and that inspires me a lot. And the students
031inspire me. They're always up to trying something new and they're always pretty excited and joyful about doing art. Watching the students get excited about what they're doing is what keeps me inspired to continue teaching. >> After 4 years of teaching, what inspires me is uh just seeing the smiles of the kids. Uh they are always extremely excited to get them into my class and to uh see what we're doing today and and to work on our project. the the concept of giving my kids independence and the ability to being able to own their work and own their ideas. So, it's not necessarily like one specific project. It's more like the um just the concept of them feeling like, you know, they're putting in what they want. They're um able to expand and experiment and try
032different things and push themselves as much as they want. >> You grow really close with your students um and they become like your children. and you get I get to watch these kids uh grow through the program and through high school. >> What I hope they take away is the appreciation for art. Um that you don't always have to be an amazing artist, but you know, creativity comes out in so many different things. >> Had two students talking about how they actually felt proud of something that they created in the art room. Um and it was just a conversation between the two of them that I had overheard, but it was nice to hear two young boys having that kind of conversation with each other. I just I just enjoy being with my students and
033I enjoy showing them how to make art. I love to see what they what they create and what they come up with. Every year the fashion show, that's the highlight cuz I teach fashion. >> Um I'm just very fortunate to be in Huntington. We have such an incredible school district and the community here is so supportive of the arts and I just feel really fortunate to have landed here and to have been here for 20 years. The best thing is is that I could take that knowledge and create pride and unity within our schools to create the massive murals that we've created here in this district. The creative journals that I do in my studio art class. It allows students to explore their creativity and as well as various mediums throughout the year. I hope
034that my students um leave this classroom with confidence in their creativity um and that they could achieve everything um that they want in in the arts and that they know that they are amazing like problem solvers in the world. >> I hope that every year my students walk away from this room feeling like they had a voice, feeling like they got the opportunity to be creative, feeling that they were welcome and that um they want to continue with art in their future. I want my students to feel better about themselves as artists. They they learn skills that they don't realize that they learn. The biggest thing in in the ceramic world is like being able to figure out how to problem solve. So, my students inspire me every day. Their curiosity and and the growth
035that I see in my classroom um makes everything worthwhile. I find that the most valuable projects is when kids actually get to take what they've learned in class and apply it to real life situations. We've had students artwork on officially on magazine covers and for clients Bay Music Festival. So, their stuff is definitely out there in a professional manner. You know, I really want to um become a better teacher. And to me, that's focusing really on um the technical skill and really getting students to focus on the next step of each project. And one student said to me, he said, "You don't need to be a better teacher because you are someone who um the students look to go to, to talk to." Um so really just having that ability to connect with the students
036and accomplish that. And having a a child, a student say that to me, um really made me reflect on my teaching. >> Art is fun and that they can see the fun and beauty in life all around them. really exciting that we have so many different opportunities for our students to find their passion within the arts. [Applause] Thank you so much to Dr. Wadawa for organizing the beautiful thank you cards and the video with Miss Fear and Miss Tempino. I always go back to the old last name. Um and to Mr. Batista and our Floutus. Everybody did such a wonderful job. Uh before we end the festivities, I would like to also read aloud a certificate of special congressional recognition for our board of education that was received from Tom Congressman Tom Suazy's office for
037school board appreciation week. It states on behalf of the constituents of the third congressional district of New York. Thank you for the vital role you play in shaping the learning experience of students in the community. This week is a testament to your hard work and dedication to providing the best possible education for our students. Best wishes for his future success in your endeavors, Tom Suisi. Let's give our board one more round of applause. [Applause] And now we will be moving on to our AP scholars presentation, which I think is why many of you are here tonight. And we're very excited to acknowledge all of our wonderful AP scholars. I'd like to introduce Miss Relle Brown, Huntington High School principal, and Dr. Ricky Papandria, our director of guidance and counseling. Thank you very much everyone for
038coming out this evening. Uh today we're going to be taking a look at our uh 2025 AP scholars and the recognition that uh these students received. I'm Dr. Ricky Bandria and I have Miss Relle Brown here with me. >> So good evening again everyone. This is an exciting time of year because it's always awesome to honor the wonderful work that you do. So, what qualifies a student as an AP scholar? AP scholars are students who score three or higher on three or more AP exams. An AP scholar with honor is a student who scores three or higher on four or more AP exams with an average score of 3.25 on all AP exams taken. And an AP Scholar with distinction are students who score three or higher on five or more AP exams with an
039average score of 3.5 on all AP exams taken. [Applause] College Board also recognizes students with an AP international diploma. So these are students who scored three or higher in five or more uh AP exams in three or more subject areas and are applying for universities outside the United States. Then we have our AP seminar and research certificate part of our AP capstone program. Students who score three or higher in both AP seminar and AP research earn this certificate. And then the culminating um award is our AP capstone diploma. Students who score a three or higher in AP seminar and AP research as well as on four additional AP exams will graduate Huntington High School with the College Board uh AP Capstone diploma. And thank you to uh whoever clapped because it is actually a an
040achievement to get that. So you can give yourselves a round of applause. So that was just an overview and now we're going to talk about at our wonderful high school where our students fell. So this is for the 2024 2025 school year we administered 1122 AP exams where 453 students took an AP exam and of those 4535 students achieved some level of AP scholars. We had 83 who were AP scholars, 33 AP scholars with honors, 58 AP scholars with distinction, 11 AP capstone diplomas, and four AP seminar and research certificates. [Applause] And up on the board here, we have a five-year trend here where the support of the board and um central administration here in Huntington has allowed us to expand our AP course offerings over the years, which has led to an increase in
041students being able to take the opportunity of experiencing AP level course and preparing themselves for career and college readiness. So over the course of the last 5 years, we've had over a 100 additional students take AP exams. We've increased our AP exam totals by over 400 exams administered. Um, and we've also seen a significant increase in students scoring three or higher on an AP exam, which is important for the AP scholar distinction. And also that level three also opens up the opportunity to receive college credit. And this past year, we had 84.11% of our students score A3 or higher on their AP exam. And so all of that background information, we now present our AP scholars. When I call your name, I'm going to ask you to please go up to Miss McCoy and Mr.
042Palasios to receive your certificate. Meer Arian, AP Scholar with Honor. Ethan Ambrosio, AP Scholar with distinction. [Applause] Zayn Amin, AP Scholar. [Applause] Raina Andrade Ortiz, AP Scholar. Amy Andrade, AP Scholar. Gana N. Felissi, AP Scholar. Brian Ariga Vega, AP Scholar with distinction. Dana Aila Justo, AP Scholar. Ruby Balur, AP Scholar. Alexandra Bomb, AP Scholar with honor. Kylie Bart, AP Capstone Diploma and AP Scholar with distinction. Jordana Boxer, AP Scholar with distinction. Emma Bole, AP Scholar with distinction. [Applause] Jessica Brie, AP Scholar with honor. Charlotte Casado, AP Scholar with distinction. Ian Charles, AP Scholar. Jake Chelacos, AP Scholar. Kathleen Cookerman, AP Scholar with Honors. Isabella Cruz Pon, AP Scholar with distinction. Kobe Coran, AP Scholar. Ryan Deviko, AP Scholar with distinction. Grayson Dunn, AP Scholar with Honors. Winnie Franchesco, AP Scholar with distinction. [Music] Carly Gallagher,
043AP Scholar. Xavier Garcia, AP Scholar Honors. Oliver Gerberg, AP Scholar with Honors. Kenneth Gilly, AP Scholar. Joselyn Gomez Ordonz, AP Scholar with Honors. Grace Gordon, AP Scholar with Honor. Katherine Gordon, AP Scholar. Jenna Graten, AP Scholar. Nia Grigg, AP Scholar with distinction. Emma Gutierrez, AP Scholar with Honor. Erin Hanland, AP Scholar with distinction. [Applause] Eric Hines, AP Scholar. [Applause] Heather Herman, AP Scholar with distinction. Angelina Hernandez, AP Scholar with Honor. Emily Herrera, AP Scholar with Honor. Ruby Hoffman, AP Scholar with distinction. Ammani Huck, AP Scholar with distinction. Rachel Huth, AP Capstone Diploma and AP Scholar with distinction. Mark Ingram, AP Scholar with distinction. Matthew Gimenez, AP Scholar with honors. Madden Calb, AP Scholar. Mia Coffin, AP Scholar with distinction. Olivia Coffin, AP Scholar. Samuel Claren, AP Scholar with distinction. Shannon Copelli, AP Scholar. [Applause] Spencer
044Cruel, AP Scholar with distinction. Brady Laccasta, AP Scholar. Giovana Len Franco, AP Scholar with honors. Jessica Lee, AP Scholar with distinction. Jian Linker, AP Scholar with distinction. Naomi Lions, AP Scholar with distinction. Melyn Maldano Lacona, AP Scholar. Braid Martin, AP Scholar. [Applause] Jessie Martinez Canales, AP Scholar. Kiara Maguire, AP Scholar with honor. Marilyn Mendoza Verula, AP Scholar. Ceselina Mong Morera, AP Scholar with Honor. Presley Moss, AP Scholar with distinction. Marin Mulali, AP Scholar with distinction. Samantha Mueller, AP Scholar with honor. Thomas Notra, AP Scholar. Chase Northrop, AP Scholar. Leila Oul, AP Scholar. Andrew Aoa, AP Scholar with Honor. Grace Oliva, AP Scholar with Honor. Louise Orgo, AP Scholar with distinction. Isabella Palasios, AP Scholar. Caleb Polarmo, AP Scholar with honors. [Music] Claire Parks, AP Scholar with distinction. Evan Penmeire, AP Scholar with distinction. Emma Pollinsky,
045AP Scholar with distinction. Jaylen Portillo Buiso, AP Scholar. Sergio Portillo, AP Scholar. [Music] Vincent Papillo, AP Scholar with honors. Julia Richards, AP Scholar. Quinn Raldi, AP Scholar. Nathan Root, AP Scholar. Dana Samargo, AP Scholar with distinction. Daniel Simon, AP Scholar with distinction. Japit Singh, AP Scholar with distinction. Louisa Scorbella AP capstone diploma. >> Louisa Scrabbella also got AP Scholar with distinction. Cameron Smith, AP Scholar. [Applause] Banny Sungqua, AP Scholar. Owen Stevens, AP Scholar. Heen Torres, AP Scholar with distinction. Ella Van Horn, AP Scholar. Sophia Van Arsdale, AP Scholar with distinction. Sophia Vias, AP Scholar. Jolie Winrider, AP Scholar with Honor. And last, but certainly not least, Dylan Wong, AP Scholar with distinction. And I really just want to say congratulations and commend these young people because some of these names we heard play sports. Some
046of these young people are in our plays and our musicals. So, they're achieving this feat while doing other things. So really, let's give them a huge round of applause because it's an honor to be able to do that. So we would like to take you guys pictures. So, if you can kind of come a little bit together, maybe make two rows so we can fit you all in. [Music] Just a little bit closer. We want to see everybody's beautiful face in this picture. [Music] I know it's a lot of clapping, but one more hand for these wonderful young people. And I just want to add a congratulations to all our phenomenal AP scholars. Our class of 2025 graduates are settling into their first year of college, but we also acknowledge their success and we will
047they will be receiving certificates in the mail. [Applause] Thank you. >> We'll give everyone a few minutes that are everyone that's ready to go at this time. Our meeting's not over. You're welcome to stay, but you're also welcome to head home and get started on your studies. We know how you became AP scholars. Good job, guys. >> Hi, in the new school year, >> I said you good. How are you? Good. I think so far. >> Have a good time. While everyone's exiting, I just want to uh on behalf of the board, I want to thank everyone for recognizing the board for the gifts um for the AP scholars. I mean, I think this is why we do it. We do this with a lot of pride. I'm very fortunate to work with some amazing
048board members and as a resident of the district, a taxpayer, a parent, I want to thank each and every one of you because I see what you do. You you put in a lot of work. You're diligent, you're conscientious, and you do what's right for our district. So, thank you to my fellow board members. All right, now that everyone's gone, I'm going to move on to the NISPA advocacy leaison. Is my recommendation of the superintendent of schools that a liazison be appointed to represent the Huntington Union Free School District at the NISPA advocacy liaison? Uh I'll take a nomination. >> I'd like to nominate Jenna. I'll >> second that nomination. All in favor? That's everyone. Jenna, thank you for putting yourself out there and for doing this for us. Appreciate it. And now I think
049we're going to start talking about the tax levy. I think we're at that time of year. Dr. Harris. >> Yes. After everybody has left, such a great group. Um, so what you have before you tonight is the uh tax levy for the 2025 2026 school year. Every uh budget development cycle, we receive a estimate. Um the estimate comes in usually around April or May. So really when we are building the budget we are going off of the actual from the prior year it is around uh I'd say probably mid September to early October in which that is then finalized. So tonight um we have the finalized um assessed value from the town presented before you. Um things to note in regards to this is the overall assessed value for the 2526 school year came in
050$179,199 less than budgeted. So what that means is the levy limit is set. Those funds still need to be collected um if so chosen by the board. So that then changes slightly what the actual tax rate uh will be. So, if you recall, which some of you may not, which is okay because I have everything in front of me, um when this was originally proposed, the uh estimated increase uh per the assessed value was $266.40. Based on the actual assessed value we now have, it is $3462 of an increase. Are there any questions, any comments, confusion? Any questions, comments? All right. Um, if not, this my recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education adopt a 2025 2026 tax levy in the amount of $120,426,114 before STAR reimbursement reduction and predicated on
051an estimated assessed value of 44,465,263. That would result in an estimated tax rate of $270.83 per $100 assessment value. Can I have a motion, please? Annie. Second by Teresa. All in favor? That's everyone. >> Thank you, Dr. Harris. Right now, moving on to curriculum and instruction. >> Good evening. It is upon recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education approve CSSE and CPS-CE submissions as delineated. Can we have a motion, please? Kelly one, Tom two. All in favor? That's everyone. Personnel. >> It is upon recommendation from the superintendent of schools that the board of education approve personnel items on schedules 3, 5, 8, 13, 15, 16, and 22. >> Can I have a motion, please? John 1, Teresa 2. All in favor? That's everyone. >> I just have one quick announcement. Uh,
052the board just appointed our brand new orchestra teacher, Mr. Kenneth Gonzalez, who's all the way in the back over there. Welcome aboard. We're happy to have you. [Applause] Welcome to Huntington. All right. And now business. Dr. Harris, again, >> it is upon recommendation from the Superintendent of Schools that the board of education approve business items I through O. Can I have a motion, please? Kelly one, Janna two. All in favor? That's everyone. Teresa, >> I would like to acknowledge a few donations. Um, the Kids in Need Foundation in partnership with Burger King uh is presenting a donation of four supply teacher kits containing various school supplies to Finley Middle School. The donation has an approximate value of $1,000. Thank you very much for that donation. And happy to accept a donation from Melissa Marotus. She's
053presenting a donation of various board games to Huntington High School. Um as Emily mentioned with the cell phone ban, um kids are talking and playing at lunch, so these will come in handy. The donation has an approximate value of $67.32. Thank you so much. >> I'd like to thank administration and ATTH. We approved a memorandum of agreement with the Associated Teachers of Huntington. And we open up our meeting uh one more time for public commentary. Same rules apply. >> I'm just going to be the timekeeper. I'll give you just a quick uh nod when there's about 30 seconds left. You have three minutes. Hi. Um, I'm Saja Safari. I'm resident of the district. Thank you board of education and school officials and it was a fun meeting today. Um, I just have a question. Maybe
054I don't understand this very well. Uh did the district have a student number drop this year uh because of the immigration policies? And if so, would that affect the budget that you receive per pupil? Would it be possible to include that in the agendas of the next future meetings for the public to see uh you know besides what you mentioned today, what affects the budget potentially? And then unfortunately from what I've seen from other places usually the art music are the first to go but what is the Huntington plan like what are the potential programs that are going to have to be cut because of these things also uh just the request the hyperlink on the agenda that is provided for the YouTube channel and the you know to see the agenda ahead of time
055does not work. So, if somebody can please check that, there are people that would like to see that that can't attend. And I also didn't understand this. Again, apologies. I came here for graduate school, so I have no idea how this works. Uh the AP exam numbers that were provided were a little bit confusing with the percentage. I didn't really get how the percentage was provided. Was that the students that took the exam just like they it was per a student per exam? because uh I'm assuming some of them based on the numbers took multiple and that was not presented. Maybe if um there's a way to see a breakdown of that it would be more informative, but we really appreciated seeing that today. Thank you again and have a good night. >> Welcome to
056our board meeting. You're welcome to sign in your name and your email address and we'll have someone get back to you. >> Comments by board members. Closing remarks. Easy enough. Motion to adjurnn. Kelly one, Tom two. All in favor. Have a good night, everyone.