In a recent meeting held by the Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education, key discussions centered around personnel changes, student engagement, and community concerns regarding school safety and regionalization.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as board members gathered to celebrate the retirement of long-serving custodian Brian Farrell, who has dedicated over 15 years to the district. The board also moved to appoint Dr. Haas as the new principal of Northport Middle School, a decision that received unanimous support from the members present. Board members expressed their enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting the importance of strong leadership in fostering a positive school environment.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Board's committees, particularly the Whole Child Student Growth and Development Committee. Chair Allison shared insights from a recent meeting where students provided valuable feedback on their academic and extracurricular experiences. This initiative aims to ensure that student voices are central to the district's decision-making processes, with plans to include teacher perspectives in future discussions.

Concerns regarding the safety of Northport Middle School were raised by community members during public communications. Denise Schwartz emphasized the need for ongoing environmental testing following troubling findings in a recent report. She urged the board to prioritize student safety and transparency, calling for regular follow-up testing to ensure the school environment is safe for all students.

Another pressing topic was the state’s push for regionalization, which has sparked anxiety among parents about potential changes in resource allocation and control. Community member Lisa Rankin questioned the implications of regionalization, expressing concerns about how it might affect local governance and the quality of education. The board acknowledged these concerns and discussed the importance of clear communication with the community regarding any changes.

In response to these discussions, Superintendent Kevin Moyer reassured attendees that the district would only engage in regionalization efforts that align with the best interests of Northport and East Northport. He emphasized the need for vigilance and community involvement as the district navigates these complex issues.

As the meeting concluded, board members reflected on the importance of community engagement and the need for transparency in decision-making processes. The next board meeting is scheduled for December 12, where further discussions on administrative changes and community feedback will take place. The board remains committed to fostering a safe and supportive educational environment for all students while addressing the concerns of the community.