At the most recent Levittown Board of Education meeting some parents requested that the district look into implementing a nine period day in the high schools. This seems like a reasonable request considering the new standards and the fact that most of the other school districts in Nassau County have already adopted a ninth period.

Unfortunately, Levittown is in a difficult position this year because of last year's budget failure. While the budget advisory committee, the school board and the administration look at this year's budget they can't help but keep in mind that last year's large tax rate increase resulted in the failure of the budget the first time around. Although the budget passed on the second try, it was a reduced budget that was passed. What does this mean for this year's budget?

The implementation of the nine period day is extremely costly. Other districts have done it but not all districts have two high schools to consider. The cost of implementing a ninth period for Levittown will be at least twice what it would be for a smaller district. It is at this time that those involved in the budget process must truly weigh out the cost and rewards of a ninth period.

The decision to go to a nine period day would not be easy at any time because of the financial implications but they are even more difficult this year because of last year's tax rate increase and budget failure.

As the district enters into the budget process there are a lot of difficult choices to be made. All those involved should be encouraged to carefully consider all their options. The future of many children will be impacted by the decisions that are made.