Eastchester budget emphasizes mental health, building‑level staff and technology upgrades

Superintendent Dr. Valente presented the Eastchester Union Free School District’s proposed budget and a package of staffing and technology changes at a work session, saying the plan shifts resources from district central offices to building‑level teams while funding new mental‑health services and classroom supports.

The proposal includes about $96,000 in general‑fund spending on secondary student and staff mental‑health initiatives, supplemented by grant funds; Dr. Valente said the district secured a $2,200,000 Southern BOCES grant that, together with Westchester County Office of Mental Health support, allowed the district to contribute $35,000 and receive $45,000 from the county to help stand up a student outreach and research clinic with a full‑time social worker and psychiatric services available to students and families. "We want no secrets about this budget. We're very pleased and proud with it," Dr. Valente said.

The superintendent proposed a two‑year plan for special education that begins with hiring one new special‑education teacher to meet IEP mandates and expand co‑teaching, and funding a second special‑education position for the district’s multi‑tiered support system…