October 6, 2026 - Board Brief

The October 6, 2026 Board of Education meeting opened with an update on the District’s Exploring Equity course. Superintendent Dr. William McKersie reaffirmed the District’s commitment to equity, belonging, and respectful dialogue while acknowledging community concerns. Dr. Melissa Szymanski, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and Dr. Jenice Mateo-Toledo, Director of Equity, Opportunity and Belonging, reviewed the course’s alignment with New York State learning standards, recent curriculum revisions, and improvements to the curriculum review and approval process. The presentation emphasized the District’s commitment to thoughtful, age-appropriate instruction that promotes critical thinking, empathy, and an understanding of diverse perspectives while maintaining open communication with families and the community. 📚🤝

Dr. Szymanski provided an update on plans to introduce a Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program, with New York State requiring districts to offer full-day pre-kindergarten to eligible students by the 2028-29 school year. Hastings is planning a pilot program for 2027-28 and exploring three potential models: district-operated, hybrid, and community-based partnership. An RFP has been issued to identify potential providers, with submissions due October 15. The District remains focused on creating a high-quality, developmentally appropriate program that supports early learning, kindergarten readiness, and the values of the Portrait of a Hastings Learner. 🎒✨

Dr. McKersie shared several highlights from across the District, celebrating the many ways students are learning, connecting, and exploring new opportunities. At Hillside Elementary, kindergarten students have been discovering the library and developing a love of reading, while Farragut Middle School has introduced a Friday morning tradition of welcoming students with music and cheers. At Hastings High School, the new Tuesday College Connections initiative will feature eight mini college fairs throughout the school year, giving students opportunities to meet college representatives and explore their postsecondary options. Dr. McKersie encouraged the community to view the full Superintendent’s Report for additional updates and highlights from across our schools. 🏫🎓

Maureen Caraballo, Business Official, provided an early look at the 2027-28 school year budget, highlighting financial pressures facing the District. Rising health insurance costs and changes in state retirement contribution rates are projected to add approximately $1.05 million in expenses, consuming a significant portion of the anticipated allowable tax levy increase. The District will continue monitoring these costs and state aid projections while working to balance fiscal responsibility with maintaining programs and services for students. Ms. Caraballo also discussed New York State’s participation in the new federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program beginning in 2027 and its potential implications for public school funding and enrollment. While the impact remains uncertain, the District will closely follow developments. 📊💰

Genieve Holder, Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, thanked SEPTA and Rivertown Parents for hosting their first neurodiversity workshop, presented by PINES (Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education). The workshop highlighted the importance of awareness, understanding, and community collaboration in fostering inclusive environments for all students. Ms. Holder also shared updates on the department’s ongoing review of special education programs and services, including collaboration with BOCES, neighboring districts, and community agencies to explore staffing, resources, and program models. These efforts are focused on strengthening the District’s continuum of services, expanding appropriate in-district programming, and ensuring students receive the individualized support they need to succeed. 🧩🤝

Dr. Szymanski also shared updates on the District’s literacy and instructional technology initiatives. The Hillside Literacy Committee has finalized success metrics for its literacy pilot programs, focusing on instructional quality, student engagement, equity, and assessment. She also presented the revised 2026-2029 Instructional Technology Strategic Plan and highlighted Farragut Middle School’s work to strengthen technology integration across classrooms. These efforts include faculty discussions informed by recent American Psychological Association recommendations, updates to curriculum documents, and the use of existing resources to provide Chromebook carts for all sixth-grade classrooms and teachers, without additional purchases. Together, these initiatives reflect the District’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful, effective teaching and learning. 📚💻

📆 The next Board of Education Meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in the Hillside Multi-Purpose Room.

🎥 Missed the October 6 meeting? Watch the full recording, including all presentations and discussions, HERE.