Hastings Budget HHS May 13

May 13, 2025

Dear Hastings Families and Staff:

Today we shine a spotlight on Hastings High School—a place where academic excellence, creativity, and community come together to empower students to grow, lead, and thrive.

Navigating tight budgetary realities, system-wide concerns, and the need to continue to provide our high school students with the stellar educational experience they deserve is a delicate balancing act. After extensive collaboration and multiple revisions, taking into account the concerns of an array of stakeholders, Hastings High School is set to maintain the high standards of education that our community expects and values.

While the budgeting process sought to identify efficiencies within the existing program that could result in cost savings, the guiding principle was to ensure that the student experience was not adversely impacted. As a result, students will continue to have the opportunity to enroll in the full range of AP courses and electives they wish to take, including popular courses such as AP Psychology, Trial Law, Creative Writing, Digital Photography and AP European Studies. In addition, our commitment to individualized attention remains unchanged, with average class sizes staying below 20 students.

All retiring staff will be replaced through thoughtful internal redistribution and a focus on hiring full-time teaching positions. This ensures that HHS remains a place where talented educators want to teach—and stay.

“The major highlight of the budget is the expansion of the Science Research Program,” said Principal Andrew Clayman. “We have been offering it as an 11th and 12th grade course and it will now expand to 10th grade.”

The HHS Science Research program offers students a unique opportunity to engage in authentic, college-level scientific inquiry over multiple years. Under the mentorship of dedicated faculty and professional researchers, students design and conduct original research projects in fields ranging from biology and environmental science to physics, psychology, and engineering. Through this rigorous program, students learn how to formulate hypotheses, analyze data, and present their findings at regional and national science competitions. The expansion of this program in the upcoming school year reflects our commitment to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for discovery among our students. With three years of scientific research, students will increase their depth of knowledge for one project or do two separate projects. Students will also have the opportunity to apply for college credit through SUNY Albany.

Science Research: Adam Greenwald, a senior, recently earned a top 20 placement at the Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair held on March 15, 2025. His innovative project, titled "Evaluation of Earthworms and Vermicompost on LHS-1 Lunar Regolith Simulant to Improve Plant Growth Efficiency," has earned him the opportunity to represent Hastings at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Columbus, OH.

Students in the AP Biology class demonstrated curiosity, dedication, and critical thinking as they explored advanced concepts in life sciences. Through labs, discussions, and in-depth research, they deepened their understanding of biological systems and prepared themselves for future studies in science and health-related fields.

Applied Chem: Students worked hard to bring applied chemistry to life through hands-on projects that connected classroom concepts to real-world challenges. They designed and built innovative experiments, explored chemical reactions with practical uses, and demonstrated how chemistry can impact areas like sustainability, health, and technology. Their dedication and creativity showcased a deep understanding of how science applies beyond the textbook.

The Arts: Students working on pottery immersed themselves in the creative process, shaping clay into unique works of art. Through patience and craftsmanship, they explored form, texture, and function—bringing their artistic visions to life one piece at a time.

Athletics: The Varsity Boys team has won the League Title, a testament to their relentless hard work, discipline, and commitment throughout the season. Their focus in practice, teamwork on the court, and determination in every game have earned them this well-deserved achievement as they now advance to Sectionals.

Latin Studies Students at our school earned national recognition for their performance on this year’s National Latin Exam, demonstrating exceptional achievement in classical studies. The National Latin Exam is an internationally recognized academic competition among 100,000 Latin students from all 50 states and 20 countries. This year, we had 30 Latin students at Hastings High School participate in this competition.

We are proud to celebrate the graduating seniors of the Hastings Alternative School Program (HASP), who have thrived in a close-knit, student-centered environment that fosters academic growth, emotional development, and real-world readiness. Through small, personalized classes, strong communication, peer support, and a focus on life skills, these students have grown into thoughtful, capable individuals prepared for college, careers, and beyond.

• Tuesday, May 13, 2025
  Last day to submit an application for an absentee ballot (if the ballot is to be mailed)

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025
  Voter Registration 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the High School Lobby

• Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  School Board Election and Budget Vote
  Polls Open: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  Location: Hastings High School - Cochran Gym, School Street

• Thursday, June 12, 2025
  Voter Registration 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the High School Lobby

• Tuesday, June 17, 2025
  Bond Referendum Vote
  Polls Open: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  Location: Hastings High School - Cochran Gym, School Street

If you are not already registered, you may do so in person on the following dates:

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• Thursday, June 12, 2025 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• Location: Lobby of Hastings High School

Not sure if you're registered?
Check your voter registration status here
(Please note that you must be registered to vote in Hastings-on-Hudson. If you are not registered, please register at the District Voter Registration on 5/14)

District Voter Registration Information

📢 Mark Your Calendars! 🗓️

The Hastings-on-Hudson UFSD Budget Vote & School Board Election is coming up:

🗳️ Tuesday, May 20, 2025
⏰ Polls Open: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
📍 Location: Hastings High School - Cochran Gym, School Street

✅ Absentee Ballots:

If you cannot vote in person, you can apply for an absentee ballot.

• Application Deadline by Mail: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

• Application Deadline in Person: Monday, May 19, 2025

• Completed ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, to be counted.
  For more details or to download an application click HERE.

💡 Your Voice Matters! Help shape the future of our schools by voting or getting involved.

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