Wantagh Board adopts 2024–25 budget, approves capital projects and routine motions

The Wantagh Union Free School District Board of Education adopted the 2024–25 proposed budget at its April 3 business meeting and approved a series of capital project addendums and routine motions, the board announced.

The adopted budget stays under the district tax cap of 2.89% and shows a year‑over‑year levy increase of about $1.9 million, Superintendent John McNamara said. Voters will see two propositions on the May 20 ballot: the budget itself and a capital reserve proposition. Polls will be open May 20 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the district’s three elementary schools.

The budget highlights cited by McNamara include maintaining class sizes, expanding elementary reading support (the district’s “WIN” push‑in program) into third grade, continued expansion of special education continuum placements that have reduced out‑of‑district placements, and new course offerings including a growing science research academy, a high‑school broadcasting course, cybersecurity certification pathway and an evening EMT program for students and community members. Universal Prekindergarten…