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Superintendent says music offerings will be preserved as board fields questions at budget hearing
Summary
At a public hearing the Hastings‑on‑Hudson superintendent told residents the district's FAQ states the same music offerings will be available next year despite budget pressures; a resident voiced support for the adopted budget ahead of the May 21 vote.
The Hastings‑on‑Hudson Board of Education opened its meeting with a public hearing on the proposed school budget, during which residents asked whether a half‑time music position might be cut and the superintendent urged the community to consult a written FAQ on the district website.
A resident who identified themselves during public comment praised the budget and said they will vote for it on May 21, saying, "It's one that I support. I'm impressed with the way, the balancing act done so that no services are cut despite the constraints and headwinds that we're all facing." The comment was repeated by board members as evidence of community support.
When asked whether the district was planning a half‑time cut in the music program, the superintendent referred attendees to a detailed FAQ and told the room, "the short answer is no. The exact same offerings, opportunities for the students this year will be provided next year." The superintendent said administration would "evaluate that very closely and carefully" if any future changes were proposed, noting a commitment not to "shortchange" students' music opportunities.
The administration also reminded listeners that the budget vote and board election are scheduled for May 21 and encouraged residents to participate. The PTSA/SEPTA budget forum was announced for the following evening at Hillside; the district said that forum will be live streamed and recorded.
No formal change to staffing or programs was adopted at the meeting; residents were directed to district materials online for further details and to follow up with the superintendent if they needed clarification.
