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Sachem board declines to rejoin Nassau‑Suffolk school‑board association this year, citing tighter school budget priorities
Summary
After discussion the board signaled it will not rejoin the Nassau‑Suffolk School Boards Association and New York State School Boards Association this fiscal year; trustees cited cost and preference to direct funds to students, though some members defended the associations’ advocacy and training.
The Sachem Board of Education discussed membership in the Nassau‑Suffolk School Boards Association (NISBA) and the New York State School Boards Association on Sept. 17 and indicated it would not rejoin those associations this year.
Why it matters: NISBA and the state association provide training, policy services and advocacy on education issues. Membership would have cost the district about $17,000 annually; the associations offered a prorated seven‑month membership for roughly $10,300 if the district joined Oct. 1.
Board discussion and concerns: Several trustees, including Mariel (board member) and Mike, said the district faces near‑term budget pressures and that the $17,000 budgeted for full membership would be better spent directly on student programs such as elementary clubs. "I could not vote to join with a clear conscience," one trustee said, citing the district’s financial outlook.
Supporters’ view: Other trustees defended the associations’ value. Stephanie (board member) said NISBA provides free trainings, consulting and convention opportunities that have produced useful vendor and policy contacts in the past; she noted those resources can save districts money over time. Supporters argued members can use the associations for advocacy on foundation aid and unfunded mandates.
Outcome: After discussion the board did not adopt a resolution to rejoin this year. Trustees said individual staff and board members may still attend association events as needed, and the decision will be revisited in future budget cycles.
