Superintendent outlines weather‑closure process, EPA Superfund update and community wellness efforts

During his update, the superintendent explained the district’s stepwise inclement‑weather decision process: early regional calls with neighboring superintendents and Westchester BOCES, coordination with transportation and facilities staff and town highway departments, and a target decision time (no later than about 6:15 a.m.) so parents have notice. He emphasized safety first while balancing instructional continuity.

On environmental concerns, the superintendent briefed trustees on EPA sampling at the Magnum Metals Superfund site and said the EPA is conducting a human‑health risk assessment based on 2023–24 samples taken on and near district property, including Blue Mountain Middle School and Furnace Woods Elementary. He said the EPA will host an open house on Thursday, Dec. 11 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Hendrick Hudson Free Library (185 Kings Ferry Road, Montrose) to discuss sampling results and next steps. He made clear the district has no operational role in the EPA cleanup, but said the district is advocating for timely communication to protect students and staff.

The superintendent also noted the New York State Public Service Commission will hold a decommissioning meeting on Dec. 11 at Buchanan Verplank Elementary School and described steps community members must take to preregister for public comment. Finally, he summarized a community forum on youth wellness focused on underage vaping and THC access; he said business owners were invited but few attended and the district will continue outreach to retail partners and public‑safety stakeholders.

"My objective is this: prioritize the safety of everyone involved in the school community," the superintendent said as he described how the district balances safety, partner input and instructional continuity when making weather and environmental decisions.