Hampton Board of Education votes on budget and welcomes new Pre-K students

The Hampton Bays Board of Education is gearing up for an important budget vote on May 20, which will present two key questions to the community. Residents will be asked to approve the budget proposal for the 2025-2026 school year and to decide whether the Board can allocate up to $300,000 from this year's budget surplus for essential repairs and renovations.

Board members emphasized the critical nature of routine maintenance, recalling past challenges when deferred repairs led to more significant issues. They noted that addressing smaller repairs promptly can prevent larger, more costly problems down the line, highlighting the importance of community support for these initiatives.

In addition to the budget discussions, the meeting also addressed the upcoming election for two Board of Education seats. Candidates Mr. Jossa and Mr. Springer are seeking community backing to continue their service on the board. Voting will take place from 7 AM to 9 PM, with absentee ballots available for those unable to attend in person.

The meeting also featured a joyful moment as the district welcomed new pre-kindergarten students. Mr. Meyer, a board member, expressed excitement about the program's growth, noting that all students who signed up would receive a spot, a significant improvement from previous years when demand exceeded availability. The selection process for AM and PM spots will be conducted through a lottery system, ensuring fairness in placement.

As the community prepares for the budget vote and the election, these discussions underscore the Board's commitment to maintaining school facilities and supporting the educational needs of local families.