Candidates endorse no harm policy for student exams during Board of Education meeting

The East Islip Union Free School District Board of Education held a Meet the Candidate Night on May 5, 2025, where candidates discussed key educational policies and their visions for the district. The meeting focused on several significant topics, including testing policies, state mandates, and the balance of support for various student programs.

The first major discussion centered on the implementation of a "no harm" policy regarding standardized testing. Candidate Mr. Sasson emphasized the need for such a policy, arguing that current testing practices do not provide a comprehensive view of a student's abilities and could disadvantage students when applying to colleges. He noted that many top schools have adopted similar policies, which he believes would benefit East Islip students.

Dr. Rivers echoed this sentiment, highlighting that New York State is revising its educational standards, which may lead to changes in graduation requirements by 2027. He expressed hope that these changes would alleviate the pressure of standardized tests on students, suggesting that testing does not accurately reflect a student's potential for success in the workforce or their social skills.

The candidates also addressed how they would handle state mandates they personally disagree with. Dr. Rivers stated that he would seek legal counsel to ensure that decisions made by the board do not lead to litigation that could financially impact the district. He emphasized the importance of making informed decisions that consider the community's best interests.

Mr. Sasson shared his experiences with state mandates, particularly regarding mask requirements and mascot policies, expressing his disagreement with these regulations. He indicated a willingness to resist mandates that he believes compromise student welfare, suggesting that the board may need to take a stand against what he perceives as overreach by the state.

Another topic of discussion was the perceived disproportionate focus on sports, particularly football, within the district. Mr. Sasson defended the prominence of the football program, arguing that its success does not detract from funding or support for other programs, such as the arts. He pointed out that much of the funding for sports comes from donations rather than district resources.

In contrast, Dr. Rivers advocated for a more inclusive approach, emphasizing the importance of student voice and agency. He proposed surveying students to determine if there is a genuine concern regarding the support for arts and other programs, suggesting that the board should work collaboratively with the superintendent to address any identified issues.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from both candidates to prioritize student needs and ensure that all programs receive adequate support. The discussions highlighted the candidates' differing perspectives on educational policies and their potential impact on the East Islip community.