Hendrick Hudson Board of Education: We stand for transparency and unity
As the Hendrick Hudson Central School District Board of Education, we are deeply committed to transparency and responsibility. The Board of Education's role is different from other organizations. Our job is to establish and monitor goals for the district, build and oversee the school district's finances, as well as write and maintain school district policy. In times of disunity, it is also our job to lead. That is what we are doing now. We are not only board members but also parents and community members — our children attend these schools, and we share the same concerns and hopes for the school district.
During the 2024-25 budget development process, rather than a rollover budget, we implemented zero-based budgeting. In short, this allowed each principal and central office administrator to make recommendations for staff and student needs specific to their buildings. Teacher input was also captured during the development process. We publicly presented this budget in December and held a line-by-line review on March 2, inviting community feedback and making district leadership available to answer questions. Then, with ongoing administrative efforts, we proposed a budget within tax limits. This budget supports maintaining student programs, developing new curricula, and addressing infrastructure needs. We continue to seek innovative ways to manage costs effectively while focusing on student success and growth.
Additionally, we recognize the importance of respecting and valuing the contributions of our teachers and staff. We deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of all members of our school community, and we are committed to supporting them in their professional growth and development. We understand that there may be disagreements or misunderstandings at times, but we are committed to fostering open and respectful dialogue to address any concerns that may arise. This is a collaborative process.
We are aware that there is further clarity necessary regarding some items. We appreciate those from whom we have heard directly, and the information that has been made available through the media in its various forms. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list but part of the ongoing conversation and presentation of facts:
The leave of absence taken by the former superintendent was due to multiple reasons and did not result in a $250,000 cost to the district.
We carefully selected Dr. Dennis Lauro as the interim superintendent based on his proven leadership and experience. The cost to hire each candidate was similar.
The decision to reorganize our district's elementary schools was made after extensive community input and collaboration with professionals to ensure the best outcomes for our students.
We have not decreased the number of teachers based on anything other than student enrollment shifts and student needs.
Consultant expenses during our tenure have not reached the reported $1.5 million figure.
We prioritize communication by providing information in both English and Spanish through email, ParentSquare and translated materials.
Translators and technology for translation have been and will continue to be available at all relevant meetings.
We ensure transparency by streaming district meetings in both English and Spanish.
Mailers were distributed in English and Spanish to keep stakeholders informed about important matters.
The addition of a director of guidance was budget-neutral and aligned with our strategic plan. As this is the only new administrator hired, it is not possible to have spent $400,000 on additional administrators for the 2023-24 school year.
Budget projections are readily accessible on our website and in BoardDocs for ongoing monitoring and planning.
With the elementary restructuring, we will offer a moving service to assist staff and address their needs, aiming to reduce stress. Previously, teachers were tasked with packing and unpacking, receiving minimal compensation for their efforts.
Decisions regarding compensation are made independently for each bargaining unit with the best interests of all stakeholders in mind.
We prioritize professional development aligned with district goals and teacher input.
We re-established the Curriculum Committee, which includes teachers, administrators, board members and parents.
Site-based teams have been established. These advisory groups are yet another opportunity for teachers to provide input into decisions that impact the teaching, learning and working environments.
Beginning with the 2024-2025 school year we are introducing a Universal Pre-K program for in-district 4-year olds, funded by a state grant to ensure cost neutrality for taxpayers.
We all know that great schools are the backbone of strong communities. Our schools aren't just places of learning; they are the heart of where we live. With your continued support, we can provide the best for everyone, especially our students.
We thank the community, including our teachers, for their dedication and commitment as we work together to create a brighter future for the Hendrick Hudson Central School District. We're at our best when we stand together, resisting anything that tries to divide us and focusing on what makes our community strong.
Hendrick Hudson Central School DistrictBoard of Education
Alexis Bernard, president
Erica Mills, vice president
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Hendrick Hudson Board of Education: We stand for transparency, unity
