An ad-hoc coalition of concerned community groups served as a driving force behind the passage of the revised Farmingdale Schools 2000 Budget, using fliers and word of mouth in an effort to get out the vote.

The coalition, known as CARE (Child Advocates Rally Everyone), was formed immediately in response to voter rejection of the original budget on May 16. Among its members were the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), Farmingdale Youth Council (FYC), Farmingdale Federation of Teachers (FFT), Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), and the Farmingdale Association of Administrators and Superintendents (FAAS). Without using school district resources, but rather resources of community members, the coalition mobilized to get the fliers printed and mailed to residents.

The fliers explained the consequences of a second defeat of the budget, which would put the district on austerity. It noted, "If the Farmingdale School Budget is defeated, it will be impossible to continue with the following as planned: Farmingdale Youth Council Recreation Programs, Farmingdale Care: Childcare Program - Before/During/After School, Adult Education Programs -including driver's education, School Sports and Extra-Curricular Activities, Community use of school district buildings and fields, including, Farmingdale Baseball, Hawks Football, Wolverines Soccer, Farmingdale P.A.L. - Lacrosse, Basketball, Kickline, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Daisies, etc., Senior Citizen Activities." The flier also noted that a failed budget would mean cuts in academic programs, increased class size, and decreased property values.

The work of the group seemed to bare much fruit, as parents came out in droves, and waited on long lines at the polls to support the budget. With a total turnout of over 4,000, participation in this budget vote was the greatest since 1996.

"There's a lot of issues that concern kids, and I have two of them. And that is why I am here," said Gary Dickinson, as he stood in the Howitt Gymnasium waiting to vote Tuesday.

Parent Eileen Murphy also came out for the children. She was among many who said they came out to vote "yes" to ensure the Farmingdale Youth Council Recreation Program would not be canceled. "It's important for them to have something to do," she said.

Parent Lucy Quinn, also in support of the budget, added, "Public education is essential to the well-being of Farmingdale."

CARE members expressed much relief upon the announcement of the passage of the $85.6 million budget by a 2359 Yes to 1710 No tally. "We got the people out. That's what counts," said Kathy Dowling, describing the importance of voter participation in the school budget process. "I respect anyone who comes out to vote, because they're making their voice heard."

Superintendent of Schools Gerard W. Dempsey also observed the high voter turnout. "We're delighted that the community supported the school district programs, and all the community activities for our children," he said. "We look forward to continuing our plans for academic standards, enrollment growth, and new programs."