The Massapequa 2015-16 school budget overwhelming passed on Tuesday, May 19, with an 80.6 percent margin. That is the good news. The bad news is that only 2,500 people out of approximately 43,000 registered voters turned out to actually cast a vote.
The $189,746,159 budget will continue to fund all the current programs that are offered with enhancements to technology instruction, additions of varsity assistant coaches, an additional position in security and five contingency teaching positions. There was a zero percent budget-to-budget increase with a .95 percent increase in the tax levy, which is well below the New York State tax cap. Superintendent Iconis and Mr. Adcock, Deputy Superintendent, were both very pleased with the support from the community in approving the budget.
“Such a high approval rating clearly demonstrates a vote of confidence for our school system, our programs and our outstanding district,” said Iconis.
Mrs. Fisher and Mr. LaBella ran unopposed and will continue as board trustees for another three-year term. Mrs. Fisher shared that it has been a privilege representing the community as board trustee.
“I appreciate the support and will continue to always put the interests and needs of all children first and foremost,” she said.
Dr. Fasano, Assistant Superintendent, announced the results of the 2015 Kid Vote, which occurs during the annual School Budget vote. Traditionally, the high school students register and help facilitate the voting of the elementary students. This year the voting centered on food service and polled the students on preferred pizza toppings, a lunch choice and whether to have set menus for set days. Pepperoni pizza topping, yogurt parfaits and set menus such as brunch for lunch Wednesday and Pizza Friday were the big winners among the 419 students who participated in the vote.
The May 21 meeting of the Board of Education also recognized and congratulated 12 administrative and teacher tenure recipients as well as those retiring. The Board accepted the rescinding of Dr. Barbara Williams retirement as Massapequa High School main campus principal. The superintendent and Board were very happy to hear that Dr. Williams had decided to stay on for the following school year.
The Board of Education also approved the negotiations agreement between the district and the Secretarial unit for the period July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2019. The provisions of the contract for its 51 members include a 2.9 percent increase each year, which includes increment. In addition, the sick leave/retirement rate goes to $70 per day for a maximum of 200 days.
The next Board of Education meeting will be on June 14.
