Public speakers praise student events, press district on lunch quality and athletic field fees

Several members of the public used the district's public-speaking period to praise student performances and to raise concerns about food quality in schools and sharply higher fees for community youth sports field use.

An unnamed parent praised recent student events and senior efforts at Ramapo High School and Spring Valley High School and urged the district to expand opportunities for students, including inviting colleges that offer study-abroad programs. The speaker said the district "needs to be proud of these students" and described recent events, including a well-attended jazz night, as "an immense success."

Rafael Lindor, founder and president of Rockland Dynasty, a not-for-profit youth football organization, told the board his group rostered "nearly 90% of the kids of East Ramapo Central School District" and that a recent fee increase had made field use unaffordable. "The increase of fees over 100% has made it nearly impossible for us to continue providing the vital services," Lindor said, adding that his organization previously paid "on an average of 3 to $5,000" and that this year field costs rose to "$25,000 just for the football and athletic fields." He asked the board to "reconsider these fees of increases and explore solutions that can support a not for profit organization like myself and others in the community," and urged the district to explore long-term seasonal rates.

No formal board action on fees or food services was taken during the public comment period; the superintendent later described steps the district is taking on cafeteria improvements (see related coverage).