Board of Education approves $2,500 scholarships and nominates Charmise Desire for director

The Sewanhaka Central High School District Board of Education convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including scholarship awards, the school calendar, and personnel matters.

One of the significant topics addressed was the awarding of scholarships during the senior award ceremony. The board confirmed that five $500 scholarships would be distributed, totaling $2,500 for the district. This initiative mirrors a similar program from the previous year, reinforcing the district's commitment to supporting its students.

The board also approved the revised school calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year, ensuring that all members were in agreement on the changes. Additionally, the board nominated Charmise Desire for the NISBA Area 11 Director position, which was unanimously supported.

In the curriculum section, the board moved forward with various agenda items, including finance and operations, which were also approved without opposition. The personnel agenda, covering professional and civil service items, received the same unanimous support.

Legal matters were addressed, including the appointment of Nicholas Marra as treasurer and the posting of the district safety plan for public review. The board will hold a public hearing in August regarding this plan.

During the meeting, a board member raised concerns about new insurance policies affecting local organizations, particularly in the Floral Park District. The member highlighted that rising premiums could lead to increased costs for parents or potentially shut down programs, urging the board to investigate the issue further to prevent any negative impact on student participation.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's ongoing efforts to support student initiatives and address community concerns while ensuring operational efficiency within the district.