During the past several months, the district's administration has been negotiating with Nassau BOCES to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement to extend the existing lease of the Hawthorn facility. Although the district offered BOCES a very fair proposal, they ultimately decided to decline the district's extension offer.

To avoid a loss of revenue, the district has been aggressively pursuing a new tenant for the Hawthorn building and has explored several possible options. Throughout this process, the board of education and administration remained committed to maintaining the residential atmosphere surrounding the Hawthorn school, as well as the residents' quality of life.

On May 11, the Massapequa School District and Nassau County announced a lease arrangement to house the Nassau County Policy Academy at the Hawthorn facility. This joint agreement was the culmination of numerous discussions, which began in early winter, involving members of the legislature and Nassau County representatives. The proposed lease will be for five years with a renewal option.

It is important to note that the Hawthorn building will be used solely as an education facility by the Nassau County Police Academy, which is consistent with the role Hawthorn has played in this community. The building will be used for classroom instruction, technology training, and administrative support. At no time will the facility be used for firearms instruction, which will continue to be taught at a separate location.

This agreement yields several benefits to our residents:

• There will be no loss of revenue to the district due to BOCES vacating the premises.

• Using Hawthorn as a Nassau County Police Academy will maximize taxpayers' investment and eliminate additional tax cost.

• The district looks forward to developing a close working relationship with the Nassau County Policy Academy to share resources and technical expertise in the areas of safety planning, emergency medical response training, and youth-related awareness training.

• Massapequa students also participate in one of the largest Police Athletic League (PAL) programs in Nassau County and the presence of the Academy will serve to enhance that operation.

• The heightened police presence within our community will contribute to enhanced safety in our neighborhood.

The district will be hosting a meeting on Tuesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium of the McKenna School for residents of the Hawthorn catchment area and other interested citizens to further discuss the district's new partnership with the Nassau County Police Department, as well as answer any questions. In addition to representatives of the district, Deputy Chief Karen O'Callaghan will represent the academy at this meeting.

As the largest school district in Nassau County, we look forward to working with the Nassau County Police Department to the benefit of our students and community.

Maureen E. Flaherty, Ph. D.,

Superintendent of Schools