Superintendent reports smooth start to school; staffing, roof work and secure vestibule near completion

Superintendent Angelina told the board the September opening went well despite construction and some unusual changes, and she outlined staffing updates and construction progress. "We were fortunate to be able to find someone to cover our special education needs at the elementary school," Angelina said, adding that Miss Fremont “has actually officially joined us effective Monday.”

Angelina said the district is continuing to recruit for a less‑than‑full‑time position and expects to hire at least one aide for a new transfer student. On technology staffing, she said certified technology teachers are rare in New York and the district is pursuing an alternate certification pathway for a candidate with a master’s degree and strong computer skills.

On facilities, Angelina reported the elementary roofing is "almost done" and the contractor has quoted completion by next Friday. She said front‑office work was delayed because the contractor ordered the wrong lights and the district is waiting for correct fixtures to avoid redoing work. The secure addition’s concrete pad has been poured; once framed the secure vestibule will allow visitors to interact with staff without entering school buildings, and staff expect that work to finish in late fall.

The superintendent also highlighted communications work and partnerships. She said the communications subcommittee is reviewing website and app products ("those things have a cost associated with them"), and noted an upcoming Hudson Valley (HVCC) kick‑off to introduce students to postsecondary and certificate pathways. Angelina announced the district will resume baseline impact (concussion) testing for all students this year so physicians have pre‑injury baselines.

The superintendent reaffirmed the board’s earlier decision not to open new slots for STEM High School or Tech Valley High School because of budget constraints: current STEM students can finish their four‑year pathways, but the district will not recruit new out‑of‑district slots that it might later be unable to honor. "Due to budgetary constraints, Tamarac is not participating," she said, explaining the decision was intended to avoid admitting students and then telling them they cannot attend.

The board discussed budget limits and the aid formula as reasons the district cannot expand some program access; members asked staff to continue reporting updates on recruitment, certification efforts and construction milestones.

The board chair asked staff to return with any new hires or contract updates at a future meeting.