Henry Hudson board opens feasibility study to move sixth grade to regional campus

The Henry Hudson Regional Board of Education on Nov. 19 opened a feasibility study to examine moving sixth graders to Henry Hudson Regional School, a step administrators said could create a "school within a school" but has no firm plan, timeline or funding commitment.

Superintendent Dr. Tara Beams said district staff have begun a feasibility review to evaluate financial, staffing and timing issues tied to a potential 6–8 configuration. "We are looking at moving the sixth grade to HHRS and creating a 'school within a school'," Dr. Beams said, explaining the committee will develop options before parents are brought into the discussion.

Board members sought stronger public representation on the committee. Ms. Melnyk said she wants a board member on the team, and Ms. Thomas said the committee should be expanded to include public input and to explore combining elementary schools. Mr. Wingerter warned the board that there currently is limited public support for consolidating elementary grades.

Several members of the public asked when and how parents would be involved. Chelsea Witkowski asked whether parents will participate; Dr. Beams replied that parents "will be brought in later in the year." Brent Sonnek-Schmelz pressed about a questionnaire and its results; Dr. Beams said those results will be shared at the January board meeting.

The board characterized the effort as an early-stage planning exercise prompted by the district strategic plan rather than a decision to change school assignments. No policy change, funding commitment or implementation date was approved; the district said the committee will return recommendations only after completing feasibility work.