Superintendent Pollan praises literacy gains, announces Amazon summer‑meals pilot and removal from special‑ed watchlist

Superintendent Pollan highlighted several administrative accomplishments and new initiatives during his report to the board. He pointed to a nationally distributed brief that highlights the district’s 'science of reading' work and said the district has seen notable growth in early grades. “Our children are absolutely crushing it, and our staff should be extremely proud of what's happening,” Pollan said, describing sustained research‑based literacy instruction as central to those gains.

Pollan announced a pilot program to provide summer meals through Amazon delivery to students and families, describing it as a first‑in‑state pilot for New York: “We're the first school district in New York State to pilot a program where our school meals will be provided to our students and our families throughout summer, through Amazon delivery services,” he said, and encouraged families to sign up and contact the district with issues.

He also credited staff—naming Chelsea Eaton and others—for addressing prior state concerns in special education. The superintendent reported the district has been removed from a state Office of Special Education compliance list after implementing corrective protocols for suspensions and ensuring procedures for students with disabilities are followed. Pollan described the change as a sign of improved processes and ongoing attention to restorative practices and transitions for secondary students.

Board members and administrators applauded the staff for the work on literacy, meal access and special‑education compliance, and the superintendent framed these items as examples of sustained investment and targeted supports that benefited students across grade levels.