Eastchester schools plan significant schedule changes to enhance student services

The Eastchester Union Free School District Board of Education convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss significant changes to the school schedule and facilities aimed at enhancing student experiences. The meeting highlighted the need for a revised secondary schedule, with board member Chrissy emphasizing that the current nine-period format is outdated and does not adequately support students' social and emotional needs.

Chrissy reassured attendees that the proposed changes would not detract from existing programs, particularly in the arts, but rather aim to improve them. The board has engaged a master scheduler to assist in developing a new timetable that ensures continuity between the middle and high schools while expanding opportunities for students. The goal is to implement these changes by September 1, 2025, allowing for necessary adjustments over the summer.

In addition to scheduling, the board discussed facility improvements, including a tour with architects to assess current spaces and explore options for future expansions, such as a dedicated music wing. The board acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in their approach to gradually enhance the arts program from elementary through high school.

Public comments included concerns from parents about the pace of changes and the importance of maintaining robust arts programs. One parent highlighted the need for careful planning to ensure that students do not lose access to vital programs as the schedule evolves.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions about the new schedule, with a presentation planned for May to outline progress and address any remaining issues. The board also noted upcoming engineering assessments of school facilities, including the use of drones to evaluate building relationships, scheduled for March 31, when students will not be in attendance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's dedication to improving educational offerings while ensuring that the arts remain a priority within the district's evolving framework.