During the Northport-East Northport UFSD Board of Education meeting on November 21, 2024, a significant discussion emerged regarding the appointment of a new principal at Northport Middle School and the district's ongoing budget challenges. Denise Schwartz, a community member, congratulated Dr. Hass on his retirement and highlighted the need for careful consideration of staffing levels in light of declining student enrollment.

Schwartz pointed out that the district's high school enrollment has dropped dramatically from 2,036 students in the 2016-2017 school year to just 1,486 this year. This decline raises questions about the necessity of maintaining a fourth assistant principal position at the high school. She emphasized that the current caseload for the three assistant principals is lower than it was when the school had more students, suggesting that the district should not fill the vacant position.

This discussion underscores the district's financial constraints and the need for strategic staffing decisions as enrollment continues to decline. The board's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of the district's educational leadership and budget management.