South Huntington School Board retains current K-6 model after community support

In a recent government meeting held in South Huntington, school board members expressed strong support for maintaining the current educational model, which organizes students into distinct grade groupings: K-2, 3-5, and a sixth-grade center. This decision comes after community feedback indicated satisfaction with the existing structure, which board members believe has contributed to the district's success in providing quality education.

Board member comments highlighted the importance of the sixth-grade center as a crucial transitional phase for students moving from elementary to middle school. One member emphasized that personal experiences as a parent have underscored the value of this model, stating, "If it's not broke, don't change it." This sentiment was echoed by others who noted that while the current system is effective, there remains room for improvement without overhauling the established framework.

Dr. Lea, a key figure in the discussions, had previously recommended to the board that they continue with the current model, a suggestion that received unanimous support during the vote. Board members noted that avoiding unnecessary controversies allows them to focus on their primary mission: delivering high-quality education at an affordable level.

However, some members, like Miss Westman Clark, called for ongoing dialogue with the community to ensure that their needs are continuously addressed. She acknowledged the importance of research and conversation when considering any future changes to the district's structure, suggesting that while the decision to maintain the current model is sound, it should not preclude future evaluations of the district's needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to stability in the educational model while recognizing the necessity of community engagement and adaptability in the face of evolving educational demands. The board's decision reflects a balance between maintaining effective practices and remaining open to future improvements, ensuring that the district can continue to meet the needs of its students and families.