Eastport South Manor leaders discuss special education budget and new initiatives

The Eastport-South Manor Central School District Board of Education meeting on February 12, 2025, focused on the special education budget and the introduction of a student board member initiative. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to enhancing special education services while addressing enrollment trends and program improvements.

Ben Frank West, the director of special education, presented an overview of the special education budget for the 2025-2026 school year. He noted that the district's special education enrollment has remained stable despite an overall decline in total student enrollment. This stability is attributed to the classification of new students and the district's ability to attract students from neighboring districts through its special education programs. The budget proposal includes a $717,000 increase in special education services, which will be partially offset by revenue from tuition-paying students.

West emphasized the district's ongoing efforts to improve special education services, including the implementation of integrated co-teaching (ICT) training for teachers and the expansion of resources for students with disabilities. He also announced plans to send a group of students to the Victory Games, a special event aimed at promoting inclusivity in sports.

In addition to the budget discussions, the board introduced a new policy to allow for student representation on the board. This initiative aims to provide students with a voice in decision-making processes and enhance communication between the board and the student body. The board discussed the logistics of appointing two student members, who will serve a one-year term and participate in meetings, although they will not have voting rights. The board expressed optimism that this initiative would engage students and foster a greater sense of community involvement.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the student board member policy and ensuring that the special education budget aligns with the district's goals for inclusivity and support for all students. The board's proactive approach reflects its dedication to enhancing educational experiences and addressing the needs of its diverse student population.