October 20, 2026 - Board Brief

The October 20, 2026 Board of Education meeting opened with the Superintendent’s Report, as Dr. McKersie celebrated learning across the District. Highlights included Hillside third graders’ Great Literary Pumpkin Project, a Farragut fifth-grade discussion of City of Ember, and Hastings High School’s Hispanic Heritage Month hallway displays. Dr. McKersie also recognized staff for Pink Out, bid farewell to Farragut’s Michele Avila, and celebrated our principals during National Principals Month. He encouraged the community to view the full Superintendent’s Report for more updates. 🏫

Maureen Caraballo, Business Official, discussed the long-term financial planning required for New York State’s universal full-day pre-K mandate, which takes effect in the 2028-29 school year.📊 While state per-pupil funding has historically remained flat, operating costs such as salaries and health insurance rise 3% to 5% each year. Enrollment-based funding adjustments, required community partner set-asides, and strict staffing and certification requirements add further pressure. To plan responsibly, the District will forecast enrollment, review available space, and build a five-year financial model.💰

Dr. Melissa Szymanski, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, shared an update on the District’s Universal Pre-K pilot and other curriculum initiatives. After outreach to neighboring districts, a review of three program models, and an evaluation of two RFP submissions, District and building leadership reached consensus to move forward with an external provider for the 2027-28 pilot. One respondent closely aligns with the District’s vision, and next steps include formally accepting the RFP and drafting a contract. Dr. Szymanski also shared that the K-12 Mathematics Committee has drafted a math vision that will be shared for faculty and community feedback, and the Professional Learning Committee is planning a Winter Data Conference for the February 3 Superintendent’s Conference Day. 🎒

Gen Holder, Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, shared a program update on the Special Education Department’s partnership with Southern Westchester BOCES to expand in-district programming so more students can be supported within their home school community.🤝 Together, they are also developing an ongoing professional development plan focused on neurodiversity and inclusive classroom practices. Ms. Holder noted that work has begun on a consistent, developmentally appropriate K-12 Section 504 process across all buildings. She also thanked SEPTA for hosting a Meet and Greet that welcomed families to connect with the District’s new leaders. 🧩

📆 The next Board of Education Meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Hillside Multi-Purpose Room. The agenda will include the Audit Report, presented by the District’s auditors, and the Academic Multi-Measure End-of-Year 2026 Report, presented by Dr. Melissa Szymanski, Ms. Amy Cazes, Ms. Lina Carolini-Cannavò, and Mr. Andy Clayman.

🎥 Missed the October 20 meeting? Watch the full recording, including all presentations and discussions, HERE.