Ryan Malone, an officer of the East Meadow Teachers Association and a veteran teacher, told the board that charter schools are "quietly but seriously threatening" local public-school funding.

"Long Island doesn't need more charter schools," Malone said. "Charter schools have taken more than half a billion dollars from Long Island's public school districts, including ours. Since 2020, East Meadow School District has, by law, spent almost $1,300,000 and our contribution is going up exponentially every year. This year, we are budgeted for another $500,000 for the 25-26 school year." Malone asked the board to advocate with state legislators for "fair funding" so local tax dollars remain in neighborhood public schools.

Public commenters at the meeting echoed the concern that public funds should stay local and noted differences in accountability: Malone and others contrasted district audits, certified teachers and elected oversight with charter management organizations that they said face less local accountability.

The administration did not offer independent verification of the numeric claims during the meeting; trustees did not vote on a related resolution. The board and superintendent acknowledged the district would support advocacy efforts and encouraged continued community discussion and outreach on state policy.

Next steps: Malone asked the board to consider formal advocacy with state lawmakers; trustees and the superintendent indicated willingness to work with legislative liaisons to communicate district concerns.