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Mount Vernon superintendent outlines back-to-school preparations, device policy and safety updates
Summary
Superintendent Strickland reported Aug. 26 that the district completed fire inspections, moved kitchen equipment from closed schools, adopted a personal-device policy aligned with state mandate and set Sept. 3 as first day for in-person classes. He also highlighted a student trip to Costa Rica, community events and a state monitor public hearing.
Mount Vernon City School District Superintendent Dr. Strickland told the board Aug. 26 the district is readying buildings and staff for the Sept. 3 return of students and families and announced a new personal-device policy tied to state guidance. "As of 09/03/2025, there will be no devices allowed to be used from the beginning of school until the end of school," Dr. Strickland said, explaining the policy aligns with New York State’s mandate and aims to reduce classroom distractions. In his monthly report, Dr. Strickland highlighted a summer student trip to Costa Rica that included guided tours, kayaking and visits to a volcano, and he thanked staff who organized the trip. He also recognized a community program, the Buddy White project, for health screenings and back-to-school support. The superintendent said the district completed required fire inspections across its properties. "I am happy to report that all 16 schools, a garage and 5 storage containers have all passed their fire inspections," he said, and noted kitchen equipment from closed schools was moved to existing cafeterias to improve food-service capacity. Dr. Strickland thanked Dr. Kimberly Young Wilkins, the state monitor, for conducting a public hearing about balancing the school budget and said they have discussed long-term fiscal plans. He said the district’s parent center has been moved to Graham School to give families space and access to computers and parent liaisons for online registration, and reminded families that online registration is the preferred process for the coming year. Dr. Strickland also introduced that Mount Vernon High School will host an in-person convocation for staff and recognized Principal Baruti Kafele for joining the meeting and preparing to work with district leaders. No new binding policy changes were adopted at the business meeting beyond the device policy already passed; the superintendent said staff will continue implementation and outreach as school opens.
