Oceanside board adopts 2026–27 school calendar; raises hourly minimum to $17

The Oceanside Union Free School District Board of Education on Nov. 19 approved the district's 2026–27 school calendar and a separate motion to raise the district's hourly minimum wage to $17 effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Superintendent Dr. Harrington described constraints that shaped the calendar, including adherence to the BOCES calendar and regional testing windows. "It is based on the BOCES calendar," Dr. Harrington said, explaining the district builds 185 days into the calendar because teachers are contractually obligated to work 184 days. He recommended bringing staff back on Monday, Aug. 31, with students beginning Sept. 1, noting that Labor Day falls late next year (Sept. 7).

During the business portion of the meeting, the board moved, seconded and voted to adopt the calendar as presented. Later in the agenda the board approved a motion raising the hourly rate for all employees to a minimum of $17 per hour effective Jan. 1, 2026, citing alignment with New York State minimum wage guidance. That motion also passed by voice vote.

Both measures were presented as part of routine budget and personnel business and carried with standard motions and board approval during the Nov. 19 meeting. The calendar adoption will be reflected in district communications and informs teacher work days and student start dates for the 2026–27 school year.