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I hope this letter finds you well. Below, please find a brief recap of the presentations and announcements from the Board of Education Meeting that took place on March 18, 2025. You can watch the meeting video here.
2025-2026 Instructional Budget Presentation: All three principals, along with the Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services and Human Resources, Director of Special Education, Director of Technology, and I presented the proposed Instructional Budgets for the 2025-26 school year, which you can review here, along with the previous budget presentations. As we approach the annual school budget vote on May 20, please see the important dates below.
4/22/25: Adoption of Budget
5/6/25: Public Budget Hearing
5/20/25: Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election
Pleasantville Pride:
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Middle School Science Olympiads Regionals: Dr. Chagares and I were honored to celebrate the Middle School Science Olympiad team's regional win with the team—best wishes to them as they head to the state competition in April.
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High School Science Olympiads States: Good luck to our High School Science Olympiad team as they head to Syracuse this weekend to compete in the state championships.
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Spring Athletics: Spring JV and varsity sports began yesterday. Good luck to all student-athletes during tryouts.
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Blood Drive: Thank you to the ECHO Club for organizing a blood drive to help replenish the local supply.
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BRS Book Parade: The BRS team held a lively book parade, celebrating favorite book characters after a two-week read-a-thon. Thanks to the BRS PTA for their support.
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Regeneron Science and Engineering Fair: Ten science research students participated, with six earning awards. The specific awards will be announced at Thursday’s ceremony.
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High School Musical: The high school musical was outstanding. Kudos to the students, staff, and volunteers for their dedication. The costumes were particularly impressive, truly transforming the students into their characters. Around 75 senior citizens attended Wednesday’s performance, thoroughly enjoying the show. A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Fonde for his creative and enthusiastic support, including arranging a Persian horse-drawn carriage for the opening and Sunday performances.
Professional Development: Last week included an extended day and a Superintendent’s Conference Day (SCD). The faculty participated in training on safety, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) benchmarks, technology, assessments, and curriculum development, making progress on curriculum writing goals.
Middle School Play: The 7th and 8th graders will perform Something Rotten, Jr. this Friday and Saturday. Break a leg!
ESY Program Update: Based on survey feedback, the ESY program dates were adjusted. It will now run from July 1 to August 11, closing on July 4 for Independence Day.
Community Survey Results Presentation: I provided the Board with an overview of results from the Community Survey from February. You can review the presentation here.
Community Facilities Committee: The committee met to discuss a potential May 2025 capital project vote, focusing on health and safety upgrades.
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Pros: Consensus on the need for Safety and Security Upgrades (PA systems, lockdown technology) and Internal Systems and Equipment Repairs (HS auditorium lighting, HVAC at BRS, hot water pumps at PHS). These items align with community survey support.
- Cons: Concerns over limited lead time for community outreach and the need for multiple capital projects to address all student needs, as outdoor facilities were not considered.
Capital Project Status: After discussion, it was determined not to move forward with a capital project vote in May 2025. The Board of Education and I will issue a letter to the community that further discusses our thoughts on this and our pathway forward. We remain committed to engaging the community and communicating along the way about our progress. Stay tuned!
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our students and school community. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback.
For the youth,
Dr. DeSa
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